Finding a place to crash near a college campus is usually a nightmare of overpriced "boutique" spots or motels that haven't seen a vacuum since the 90s. Honestly, looking for hotels close to university of massachusetts lowell feels a bit like that at first. You see a map of Lowell and think, "Oh, I'll just grab a spot downtown," only to realize the campus is spread out like a spilled deck of cards across the Merrimack River.
Lowell isn't a one-size-fits-all city. You've got the North Campus, South Campus, and the East Campus, and if you pick a hotel on the wrong side of the bridges during rush hour, you’re basically living in your car. It's frustrating. I’ve seen parents show up for graduation thinking they can walk to the Tsongas Center from a hotel three miles away because the map "looked close." It's not.
The Reality of Staying at the UMass Lowell Inn & Conference Center
Most people start their search at the UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center (ICC). It makes sense, right? It’s literally owned by the university. It is located at 50 Warren Street, right in the heart of downtown.
Here is the deal: it’s convenient, but it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
Staying here means you are a two-minute walk from the university's main administrative hubs and very close to the East Campus. The vibe is "academic chic"—which is a polite way of saying it feels a bit like a dorm that grew up and got a liquor license. You get a fitness center and a bar, and the rooms are generally clean. However, don't expect a five-star resort experience. It’s a 2.5-star property.
The biggest perk? They often have a UMass Lowell rate. If you are visiting for a school event, always ask for it. It can save you a chunk of change that you'll inevitably spend on parking or a meal at Blue Taleh nearby.
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Best Hotels Close to University of Massachusetts Lowell for Families
If the ICC is booked—which happens fast during move-in weekend—you’re going to have to look a few miles out. This is where most people get tripped up. You want to stay in a spot where you aren't fighting the I-495 traffic just to get a coffee.
The Sonesta Select Boston Lowell Chelmsford
Located at 30 Industrial Ave East, this is probably the most consistent "standard" hotel in the immediate area. It’s about 2.2 miles from the university. It’s a 3-star spot with a 24-hour gym and a restaurant on-site.
I’ve heard people complain that it’s "just a hotel," but honestly, when you’re in town for a hockey game at the Tsongas Center, "just a hotel" is exactly what you need. It’s clean. The staff actually knows how to handle a rush. It’s 3 miles from the arena, making it one of the better hotels close to university of massachusetts lowell for sports fans.
Element Chelmsford by Marriott
If you’re staying for more than a night, go to the Element at 25 Research Place. It’s about 2 miles from campus. This place feels modern. It’s got that "I definitely own a Peloton" energy.
The rooms have kitchenettes, which is a lifesaver if you don't want to eat takeout every single night. Plus, it’s pet-friendly. If you can't leave the family dog behind for a college visit, this is your best bet.
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Why You Might Want to Stay in Tewksbury or Andover Instead
Lowell is a dense city. Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a visit to UMass Lowell is actually to stay ten minutes away in a quieter suburb.
- Hilton Garden Inn Tewksbury Andover: This one is about 3.8 to 4.6 miles away depending on which campus you’re hitting. It’s consistently rated higher than the downtown Lowell options. It has an indoor pool and a bar that actually feels like a bar, not just a corner of a lobby.
- Chateau Merrimack Resort & Spa: Located in Tyngsboro (about 3.3 miles away), this is the "I want to treat myself" option. It’s a 4.5-star property. If you’re coming in for a graduation and want to feel like you’re on vacation rather than a scouting mission, stay here. It has a spa and a heated pool. It’s miles ahead of the budget chains in terms of comfort.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Tewksbury: Good for groups. It’s about 5 miles east of Lowell.
Navigating the Campus "Zones"
Before you book, look at your student's schedule.
North Campus (Engineering, Sciences) is near the Pawtucket Canal. If most of your time is spent here, staying in Chelmsford or Tyngsboro is actually more convenient than downtown.
South Campus (Health Sciences, Humanities) is closer to the residential areas. The Sonesta Select is a straight shot to this side of town.
East Campus (Business, Tsongas Center, University Crossing) is the downtown heart. This is where the ICC shines.
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What to Avoid
Avoid the "too good to be true" prices on the outskirts if you don't have a car. Lowell’s public transit is... fine, but it’s not Boston. You don't want to be waiting for a bus in February because you saved twenty bucks staying at a motel in Methuen.
Also, be wary of "Boston" labels. Some hotels will call themselves "Boston-Lowell" or "Boston-Andover." You are 25 miles from Boston. Don't book these thinking you'll be able to pop over to Faneuil Hall for lunch and be back for a 2:00 PM tour. The traffic on I-93 and US-3 will destroy those dreams.
Actionable Tips for Your Stay
- Ask for the UML Rate: Even if it’s not on the website, call the front desk. Many hotels close to university of massachusetts lowell keep a block of rooms or a special discount for visiting parents and researchers.
- Check the Tsongas Center Schedule: If there’s a major concert or a River Hawks game, hotel prices in Lowell double overnight. Book early if your visit coincides with a home game.
- Parking is a Pain: If you stay downtown, check if the hotel charges for parking. The ICC offers self-parking, which is a massive plus compared to some city-center spots that hit you with $30 valets.
- Explore the Food: Don't just eat at the hotel. Lowell has some of the best Southeast Asian food in the country. Hit up any of the spots on Chelmsford Street for authentic Khmer cuisine.
Lowell is a city with a lot of grit and a ton of history. The hotels reflect that—they are functional, historic, and occasionally a little quirky. Whether you're staying at the academic hub of the ICC or the resort-style Chateau Merrimack, just make sure you know which side of the river you need to be on before you unpack.
To get the best experience, map the distance specifically to the UMass Lowell North, South, or East campus rather than just "Lowell, MA." This simple check will save you twenty minutes of traffic every morning of your trip.