We stayed at The Inn at ParkSpring. It is a B&B (which I know isn’t your preference) but we enjoyed our stay here very much. John (the owner) had great recommendations for activities and restaurants.

The Inn at St. John is a nice small hotel. Eastland Park Hotel is a bit larger, but still not one of your run-of-the-mill chains. The Eastland is also a little more centrally located, being right in the Arts District.

I often stay at the Hilton Garden Inn downtown when I can get a good rate and never regret it. Although it is a chain, the location is excellent (across from the ferry terminal and in the heart of the Old Port) and you can walk to everything you might want to see.

The Eastland Park Hotel is faded glory and needs an overhaul but I would also recommend – especially a drink at twilight in the bar on the top floor.

Enjoy your trip.
Mary

You should look into Lucia or Ace hotel. The design of Ace is super creative, each room has a different design. I hope this helps.