The Kendall Hotel at the Engine 7 Firehouse
Historic firehouse charm meets modern Cambridge comfort.
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This Victorian-style boutique hotel occupies the historic Engine 7 Firehouse building, constructed in 1894. Located adjacent to the MIT Campus in Cambridge, the family-run property offers a blend of preserved architecture and updated amenities. With 77 individually decorated guest rooms spread across three floors, the hotel provides a historically rich setting. It is within walking distance of downtown Boston and Harvard University, placing guests close to key city attractions and academic institutions.
Should you book The Kendall Hotel at the Engine 7 Firehouse?
A stay in a unique, historically preserved firehouse with stylish décor and good amenities, conveniently located near MIT.
Best for
- History buffs
- Proximity to MIT
- Design-conscious travelers
Maybe not ideal for
- Those seeking resort-style amenities
- Budget travelers
Historic firehouse setting
Housed in the Engine 7 Firehouse, a Cambridge landmark built in 1894. The hotel combines original Victorian architecture with Americana-style décor, featuring restored antique furniture and bespoke artwork across its 77 rooms.
Design and comfort
Each of the 77 guest rooms features custom-made mattresses, Frette linens, and soundproof windows. The interiors are enhanced with bespoke artwork and custom furniture, reflecting a design-forward approach.
On-site dining and drinks
The Black Sheep Lounge & Bar, set in the historic firehouse, serves internationally inspired dishes, snacks, and craft cocktails. Wine Tasting Wednesdays and Mixology 101 events are also offered.
Prime Cambridge location
Adjacent to the MIT Campus, the hotel is steps from the MIT Museum and Kendall Square's shops and restaurants. Downtown Boston and Harvard University are also within walking distance.
Rooms & rates
Suite
79.0 m² · Bedroom 1: 1 queen bed Living room: 1 sofa bed
Private suite · Private kitchen · Bath · Spa tub · Free Wifi
What you'll enjoy
Gallery
Amenities & facilities
Most popular facilities
- Non-smoking rooms
- Restaurant
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Fitness center
- Private Parking
- Free Wifi
- Family rooms
- Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
Great for your stay
- Restaurant
- Parking
- Free Wifi
- Fitness center
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Private Parking
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
- Hairdryer
Bedroom
- Wardrobe or closet
Outdoors
- Outdoor furniture
Media & Technology
- Telephone
- TV
Location
350 Main Street, Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA 02142, United States, Cambridge, Massachusetts
The Kendall Hotel at the Engine 7 Firehouse is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
5 sights nearby, the closest being MIT Museum at 300 ft; the nearest metro station, Kendall/MIT, is 450 ft away.
Things to do nearby
- MIT Museummuseum300 ft
- Crimson Sailing Academymarina0.3 mi
- Hart Nautical Gallerymuseum0.4 mi
- W15 MIT Chapelplace of worship0.4 mi
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saintsplace of worship0.5 mi
Getting around
- Kendall/MITmetro station450 ft
- Charles/MGHmetro station0.8 mi
Straight-line distances from the property · data © OpenStreetMap contributors
What guests say
9.1 / 10 · Wonderful on Booking.com, from 628 guest reviews
The Kendall Hotel earns overwhelmingly positive sentiment for its prime Cambridge location steps from the MIT subway stop, warm and attentive staff, and charming firehouse character that sets it apart from generic chain hotels. Breakfast satisfies most guests, though a handful find it too limited, and parking remains a consistent frustration — expensive and awkward to navigate. Rates draw occasional gripes, particularly during high-demand events, but the majority of guests consider it good value for a boutique experience.
Reviews scoring 9–10: 23 · average 9.7
They wrote about: staff, room, breakfast
Reviews scoring 7–9: 7 · average 8
They wrote about: staff, room, breakfast
No reviews in the selected score range.
Good to know
House rules
- Check-in
From 3:00 PM
Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card at check-in.
- Check-out
Until 11:00 AM
- Cancellation/ prepayment
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Enter your stay dates and check the conditions of your selected option.
- Age restriction
The minimum age for check-in is 21
- Pets
Pets are not allowed.
- Groups
When booking more than 5 rooms, different policies and additional fees may apply.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hotel's location?
The Kendall Hotel is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, adjacent to the MIT Campus and within walking distance of downtown Boston and Harvard University.
What room types are available?
Room options include Deluxe King, King Room - Disability Access, Deluxe Double Queen, Superior Quadruple Room, and a Suite. Additional rooms like Classic Queen, Superior King, One-Bedroom Suite, and ADA King are also available.
Is breakfast offered?
Yes, the hotel provides a breakfast buffet and highlights 'Good Breakfast' as a popular amenity.
Is parking available?
Yes, private parking is available on site, including a parking garage. Reservations are needed and cost US$52 per day.
Can I check in or out early/late?
The hotel offers express check-in and check-out services.
Are there family-friendly options?
Yes, family rooms are available, and the hotel offers a kid-friendly buffet.
What is nearby?
The hotel is near the MIT Museum, various parks and gardens, and the Kendall/MIT metro station. Downtown Boston and Harvard University are also walkable.
What are the room sizes?
Room sizes vary from approximately 18.6 m² for a Classic Queen to 79.0 m² for the Suite.