Hotels across New England are celebrating a significant achievement this month, as the prestigious Michelin Guide awarded its inaugural Michelin Keys to 37 properties in the region. This new recognition system, similar to the Michelin stars for restaurants, highlights hotels that offer outstanding guest experiences. The awards include 10 properties earning two keys and 25 receiving one key, marking a new era for luxury accommodations in the Northeast.
Key Takeaways
- 37 New England hotels received Michelin Keys in 2025.
- 10 properties earned two keys, signifying an 'exceptional' stay.
- 27 properties earned one key, indicating a 'very special' stay.
- No New England hotels received the top three-key rating, which denotes an 'extraordinary' stay.
- The awards consider design, service, character, value, and local contribution.
Michelin Keys: A New Benchmark for Hospitality
The Michelin Key program is a global initiative. It recognizes more than 7,000 hotels worldwide. The keys serve as the hotel equivalent of the renowned Michelin stars for restaurants. Inspectors evaluate properties based on five core criteria. These include excellence in architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the neighborhood or setting.
Hotels can achieve one, two, or three keys. A one-key hotel offers a "very special" stay. A two-key hotel provides an "exceptional" experience. A three-key hotel is considered an "extraordinary" destination. While 16 hotels across the U.S. received the top three-key rating, none are located in New England. Most three-key establishments are found in major metropolitan areas like New York and California.
Did You Know?
Boston recently earned the distinction of being the most expensive city globally for hotel accommodations, highlighting the region's strong luxury market.
Two-Key Winners Across New England
Ten New England hotels achieved the two-key distinction. This places them among the most exceptional properties globally. Massachusetts led the region with six two-key hotels. Rhode Island followed with two, while New Hampshire and Vermont each had one. These establishments are celebrated for their commitment to high standards and memorable guest experiences.
Massachusetts Hotels Earning Two Keys
- Raffles Boston
- The Langham, Boston
- The Newbury Boston
- The Whitney Hotel Boston
- Canyon Ranch Lenox
- Tourists in North Adams
Michele Grosso, managing director of The Langham, Boston, expressed gratitude for the recognition. He stated,
"We are deeply honored to receive two MICHELIN Keys from the MICHELIN Guide. This recognition reflects our team’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional hospitality, comfort and personalized service to every guest."
Officials from The Whitney Hotel Boston also shared their excitement on social media. They wrote,
"We’re honored to share that The Whitney Hotel has once again been recognized among the world’s finest hotels, earning Two MICHELIN Keys in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide. To be celebrated on this global stage is a true privilege."They also thanked their guests and dedicated team.
Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Vermont Two-Key Hotels
- Castle Hill Inn and Resort in Newport, R.I.
- The Chanler at Cliff Walk in Newport, R.I.
- Twin Farms in Barnard, Vermont
- The Inn at Thorn Hill in Jackson Village, N.H.
About the Michelin Guide
The Michelin Guide originated in 1900 as a travel guide for French motorists. Over time, it evolved into a highly respected international authority on culinary and hospitality excellence. Its star system for restaurants is globally recognized, and the new Key system aims to bring similar prestige to the hotel industry.
One-Key Hotels: Very Special Stays
Twenty-seven hotels across New England received one Michelin Key. This designation signifies a "very special" stay, highlighting properties that offer unique character and high-quality service. Maine had the most one-key awards with nine properties. Massachusetts followed with ten, while Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Vermont also saw multiple hotels recognized.
Massachusetts Hotels with One Key
- Four Seasons Hotel Boston
- Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston
- Mandarin Oriental, Boston
- Faraway Martha’s Vineyard in Edgartown
- Hob Knob in Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard
- Granville House in Great Barrington
- The Inn at Hastings Park in Lexington
- The Brant on Nantucket
- The Wauwinet on Nantucket
- Nobnocket Boutique Inn in Vineyard Haven on Martha’s Vineyard
Trisha Pérez Kennealy, owner of The Inn at Hastings Park, expressed her team's pride. She stated,
"Receiving the MICHELIN Key for the second consecutive year is an extraordinary honor. This recognition validates our team’s relentless commitment to excellence and Revolutionary Hospitality."
Andrew Maher of Anchor Line Partners, owners of The Brant, also commented. He said,
"We’re incredibly honored to be recognized by MICHELIN for a second year. This distinction is a testament to the dedication of our partners at Salt Hotels and our shared vision to create a space that embodies the best of Nantucket – authentic, welcoming, and beautifully designed."
Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island, and Vermont One-Key Hotels
- Belden House & Mews in Litchfield, Conn.
- Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection in Washington, Conn.
- The Lincoln Hotel in Biddeford, Maine
- Camden Harbour Inn in Camden, Maine
- The Norumbega Inn in Camden, Maine
- Cliff House Maine in Cape Neddick
- AWOL Kennebunkport
- Kennebunkport Captains Collection
- White Barn Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection in Kennebunkport, Maine
- Blind Tiger Portland — Carleton Street in Portland, Maine
- Blind Tiger Portland — Danforth Street in Portland, Maine
- The Cliffside Inn in Newport, R.I.
- The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection in Newport, R.I.
- Blind Tiger Burlington, Vermont
- The Woodstock Inn & Resort in Woodstock, Vermont
Impact on New England Tourism
The introduction of Michelin Keys is expected to significantly boost New England's luxury tourism sector. This recognition provides a clear guide for discerning travelers seeking high-quality accommodations. It also elevates the region's profile on the global stage, attracting more visitors. The awards highlight the diverse range of exceptional hotels available, from historic inns to modern city establishments.
Local economies stand to benefit from increased tourism. Hotels receiving keys may see higher occupancy rates and increased revenue. This also supports local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and attractions. The Michelin Key program reinforces New England's reputation as a premier destination for both leisure and business travel, offering experiences that meet international standards of excellence.
