Where to Stay in Lowell
Lowell welcomes a steady stream of visitors throughout the year. Parents and prospective students tour UMass Lowell, history enthusiasts explore the Lowell National Historical Park, business travelers meet with technology and life sciences companies, and music lovers fill downtown for the annual Lowell Folk Festival. Sports fans visit for River Hawks hockey games at the Tsongas Center, while families gather for graduations, weddings, and reunions.
The city and its neighboring towns offer a variety of accommodations, from a university-affiliated inn downtown to reliable brand-name hotels along the highway corridors. Choosing the right location can make your visit more convenient and enjoyable.
What We Considered
Our rankings consider location, cleanliness, comfort, amenities, guest reviews, service quality, and value. We also looked at accessibility to major attractions, the university, highways, and business districts.
The Top 10 Best Hotels in Lowell
1. UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center
Located in the heart of downtown along the Merrimack Riverwalk, the UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center is one of the most convenient places to stay in the city. Guests can walk to restaurants, museums, the national park, and university venues. Its conference facilities and comfortable rooms make it ideal for academic visitors, business travelers, and families attending campus events.
2. Courtyard by Marriott Lowell
Courtyard by Marriott offers modern rooms, a convenient bistro, and easy access to the Lowell Connector and major highways. Business travelers appreciate its reliable Wi-Fi and workspaces, while families value its comfortable accommodations and Marriott Bonvoy benefits.
3. Residence Inn by Marriott Lowell Area
For extended stays, Residence Inn provides spacious suites with full kitchens, complimentary breakfast, and on-site laundry. It is a popular choice for relocating professionals, traveling nurses, and families visiting for longer periods.
4. Hilton Garden Inn Lowell Area
Hilton Garden Inn properties near Lowell offer contemporary rooms, on-site dining, fitness centers, and meeting spaces. Their consistent quality and Hilton Honors rewards make them dependable options for business and leisure travelers.
5. Westford Regency Inn and Conference Center
Just a short drive from Lowell, the Westford Regency is a full-service hotel known for its event spaces, on-site dining, and comfortable rooms. It is a favorite venue for weddings, corporate events, and conferences.
6. Hampton Inn Lowell Area
Hampton Inn locations in the region provide great value with complimentary hot breakfast, clean rooms, and friendly service. They are ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want reliable comfort.
7. Fairfield Inn and Suites Lowell Area
Fairfield Inn and Suites offers bright, practical accommodations with free breakfast and convenient highway access. It is particularly popular with families visiting students and travelers passing through the Merrimack Valley.
8. Holiday Inn Express Lowell Area
Holiday Inn Express properties near Lowell provide efficient, comfortable stays with complimentary breakfast and fitness facilities. Their consistent service standards appeal to frequent travelers.
9. Homewood Suites by Hilton Lowell Area
Homewood Suites combines apartment-style suites with hotel amenities, including breakfast and evening social events on select days. It is an excellent fit for extended business trips and family stays.
10. Boutique Bed and Breakfasts in Lowell's Historic Neighborhoods
For travelers seeking a more personal experience, small inns and bed and breakfasts in historic homes offer charm, character, and attentive hospitality. These properties often provide insider recommendations on local dining and attractions.
Best Areas to Stay in Lowell
Downtown Lowell is ideal for walkability, offering easy access to the national park, museums, theaters, restaurants, and the Tsongas Center. Hotels near the Lowell Connector and Interstate 495 are convenient for business travelers and those exploring the broader region. Nearby towns such as Chelmsford, Westford, and Tewksbury offer additional options with easy access to Lowell.
Hotel Trends in the Region
Extended-stay hotels are in high demand due to healthcare assignments, corporate relocations, and project-based work in the region. Hotels are investing in contactless check-in, mobile keys, upgraded fitness centers, and sustainable practices such as energy-efficient systems and reduced single-use plastics. Many properties are also enhancing meeting and event spaces to attract conferences and celebrations.
Tips for Booking a Hotel in Lowell
Book early for major events such as UMass Lowell commencement, move-in weekends, and the Lowell Folk Festival, when rooms fill quickly. Compare rates directly with hotels and through loyalty programs for the best value. Check parking policies, especially downtown, and ask about shuttle services or walking distances to your planned activities.
Making the Most of Your Visit
After checking in, explore the canals and mills of the national park, enjoy diverse dining options from Cambodian to Portuguese cuisine, catch a performance at the Merrimack Repertory Theatre, or stroll the Riverwalk at sunset. Lowell's blend of history, culture, and hospitality ensures a rewarding stay.
Conclusion
From the riverside UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center to trusted national brands and charming bed and breakfasts, Lowell offers accommodations to suit every traveler. The hotels on this list combine comfort, convenience, and quality service, making them excellent bases for exploring this historic and vibrant city.