AA has much better irrops options & handling. B6, while a great airline, if there is a storm you're limited by their network and available seats. Chances are things will go as planned but if they don't I would prefer not to be on B6.
The Hilton at the airport or anywhere near the airport sounds like a good idea. Boston does have some great food options since you'll arrive early evening I believe on the return.
You really should get GE. My parents fly internationally once a year or so and they can't imagine traveling without Pre or GE as the standard. I use it far more often and got Nexus for even less money and feel like each use could easily be valued at $10 in lessened frustration and time making a return trip worth the $20 per year in Precheck alone.