This page was updated March 2025.
Wellesley isn’t exactly a roadtrip destination town, but when people need to stay here, they really, really want to stay right here. Unfortunately, that presents a challenge. Because there are three colleges—Babson College, Wellesley College; and MassBay Community College; plus a grade 5-12 boarding school—Dana Hall; and the ABC boarding program associated with the public schools—demand for rooms happens at all the same times. Move in/move out time and graduations are especially in-demand dates.
Where to stay in Wellesley (where, indeed?)
Wellesley doesn’t have much in the way of traditional hotels. The Wellesley Inn is no longer (torn down in 2006). The Wellesley College Club used to have simple accommodations, but that resource closed during COVID. While the website offers guest rooms, dead links abound. A phone message says the Club will remain so “during the 2023-24 academic year.” So we’re guessing that means for the 2024-25 academic year, too.
Meanwhile, at Babson College, the school is redoing its conference center and lodging facility in 2025.
We checked airbnb recently (March 2024), and saw a few options. The more reasonable rates ranged from $50-$150/night, so maybe you can get lucky with that.
If money is no object, you could stay in the home of Katharine Lee Bates (born August 12, 1859; died March 28, 1929). Bates was not only a Wellesley resident, but the author of the patriotic song America the Beautiful. Named “The Scarab,” the 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath home is currently renting for $1,350/night.
The rental listing cites Hollywood A-lister Rosamund Pike as a guest there during the filming of I Care A Lot. Pike’s testimonial on the site reads, “I hardly don’t think I could have made it through this film without the sanctuary at The Scarab and its magical, benevolent energy. What a privilege to wake up in the sky like that.”
Where to stay beyond Wellesley
Natick: There’s a nice Hilton property on route 9, across the street from the Natick Mall (5 miles from Wellesley Square)
Needham: Marriott has a Residence Inn with plenty of suites. (6.5 miles from Wellesley Square)
Needham: Homewood Suites by Hilton has an indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. (5 miles from Wellesley Square)
Newton: For close proximity to Boston, try the Sheraton Four Points. (9.3 miles from Wellesley Square)
Newton: The Newton Marriott overlooks the Charles River (5 miles from Wellesley Square)
