The Ivy Hotel

Located in the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood—a few blocks away from the avant-garde Center Stage theater and just 10 minutes away from the restaurant-packed Hampden district—the refurbished 1889 mansion has 18 sumptuous rooms, each one different from the next. Most have plush four-poster beds draped with modern printed fabrics, gas fireplaces, and “bar-moires” designed by local artists; they’re like luxe country cabins in the middle of the city. Each guest gets a complimentary glass of champagne and a guided tour upon check-in—part of a “highly inclusive” philosophy that extends to gratuities, cocktails, and private car service.