Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is one of the top medical centers in the country, attracting patients, families, and medical professionals from all over. So finding nearby housing isn’t always easy.
Whether you need short-term housing for a loved one’s procedure, extended stay accommodations for ongoing treatment, or a convenient place to rest between long hospital shifts, finding the right lodging near MGH is key.
This guide explores the best places to stay near MGH, what to consider when you’re booking, and some of the best available resources to help you find a comfortable home away from home.
What to Consider When Choosing Accommodations Near MGH
Proximity to the Hospital
When you’re selecting a place to stay, consider how close you need to be to the hospital.
Some options are within walking distance, while others might require public transportation or a short drive. Boston’s MBTA system offers easy access to MGH via the Red Line’s Charles/MGH station. Some accommodations also provide shuttle services for medical visitors.
Amenities That Matter
When you’re booking accommodations, look for some of these specific features that support rest, recovery, and convenience:
- Medical Rates & Discounts: Lots of hotels and furnished apartments near MGH have special pricing for patients and their families.
- Accessibility Features: If you or a loved one has mobility concerns, look for ADA-compliant accommodations.
- Kitchen Facilities: Extended stays are easier with in-room kitchenettes or full kitchens.
- Laundry Services: In-unit washers/dryers or on-site laundry facilities can be helpful for long stays.
- Quiet Environment: Rest is essential for recovery, so choose accommodations in peaceful locations.
Budget Considerations
Your budget will also play a role in choosing the right accommodations.
Options typically range from affordable guest housing and medical lodging programs to luxury extended-stay apartments. Consider how long you plan to stay and weigh the cost of nightly hotel rates versus more cost-effective weekly or monthly rentals.
Flexibility for Extended Stays
If you need accommodations for several weeks or months, look for places offering flexible rental terms. Furnished apartments, for example, usually provide a more home-like environment with the option to extend your stay as needed.
Pet-Friendly Housing
Some medical visitors travel with service animals or pets for emotional support. Be sure to check pet policies when you’re booking accommodations.
Types of Accommodations Near MGH
Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Hotels | Short-term stays | Convenient, often within walking distance, medical discounts available | Higher nightly rates, limited kitchen access |
Furnished Apartments | Extended stays | More space, kitchen facilities, laundry, cost-effective for longer stays | Requires longer booking commitment |
Specialized Medical Housing | Patients & caregivers | Low-cost or free housing options for eligible guests | Limited availability, may have application process |
Specialized Housing Options for Patients and Families
For those looking for dedicated medical housing, these programs provide affordable or free options:
Mass General Hospital’s Patient Housing Resources
MGH provides a list of vetted accommodations for hospital visitors, including discounted hotels and extended-stay options. Learn more here.
Hospitality Homes
This nonprofit organization connects patients and their families with volunteer hosts offering free temporary housing. Visit Hospitality Homes.
Hope Lodge Boston (American Cancer Society)
Hope Lodge offers free accommodations for cancer patients undergoing treatment at MGH. Find out more here.
How to Find the Best Place to Stay Near MGH
Where to Start Your Search
There are several reliable sources to help you find suitable accommodations near MGH.
Start with hospital websites, like MGH’s official accommodations guide, which provides recommendations for medical visitors. Travel booking sites like Expedia and TripAdvisor also have reviews and ratings from previous guests to help you gauge the best lodging options.
Local furnished apartment providers (like Compass!) specialize in medical stays, offering fully furnished apartments designed for comfort and convenience.
How to Secure Medical Discounts
Many hotels and short-term rentals offer medical rates for hospital visitors to help reduce the cost of extended stays and make accommodations more affordable. Some properties require proof of a hospital appointment to qualify, so be prepared to provide documentation when booking.
Transportation Considerations
If your accommodation isn’t within walking distance of MGH, transportation options can make your stay more convenient.
Public transit is a reliable choice, with the Charles/MGH station on the Red Line providing direct access to the hospital. Many accommodations also offer shuttle services to and from MGH, providing a hassle-free way to get to appointments without having to rely on taxis or rideshares.
FAQs
What neighborhood is Mass General in?
Mass General Hospital is located in Boston’s West End, near Beacon Hill and the Charles River.
Where do Mass General residents live?
Many MGH residents live in nearby neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and Cambridge, where they have easy access to the hospital.