Boston. Beantown. Home of the Sox and rowing and seafood and well-dressed men. *Big contented sigh*—that’s how this city makes me feel. In fact, there are so many reasons to love Boston that’s it’s tough to fit it all into one post. So consider these Boston travel tips your intro to a place you’ll get addicted to.
No matter how many times I’ve been there, Boston always somehow feels like home. That’s because when you’re walking down its treelined, European-like streets so close to the Charles River, you just want to keep on walking. Like forever. Who cares what time you need to be back, right? Who even remembers where you pahk-ed your cah? Wait, who evens needs a cah? It turns out that the transit system, aka The T, gets you everywhere.
In Boston, it’s so easy to get lost in the perfect mix of natural beauty and the best of everything consumerism has to offer—whether that’s shopping, dining, catching a game, or just hanging out in Public Garden mid-city to take a breather and feed the ducks. So do yourself a favour and just do it, do it all.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BOSTON
WHERE TO FIND YOUR HOTEL
Hotels.com: In this city, there’s a hotel for every traveller’s needs and you’ll find all the best ones on a site like Hotels.com, especially if you sign in as a member to gain access to Secret Prices. We logged on to canvas the options and had a hard time deciding which was best for this stay. Although last time, we enjoyed the Loew’s in Back Bay (the nightly $1 oyster happy hour in the happening bar is a huge perk), we were set on trying out the Fenway Park area, which has a hipper, more residential vibe.
After some site searching, we found a deal at the Hotel Commonwealth we couldn’t pass up. This spot allows you to enjoy Boston right from the heart of Kenmore Square so you feel like a true local. The urban pulse comes not just from the Fenway park inspired themes throughout the hotel but also the proximity to so much culture nearby. The hotel sits at the nexus of the best of Boston’s academic, business and entertainment areas, and it really feels like a community hub, the best place to meet, greet, eat in Kenmore Square. Its also just the right gateway to anywhere a city day can take you.
Plus, the beds are uber comfy. And there’s a really happening restaurant attached called Eastern Standard.
Pro Tip: Up the excitement by asking for a room with a view of Fenway Park.
WHAT TO DO FOR FUN
This city is immensely walkable, no matter the weather, so be sure to bring the right comfortable clothes right down to your walking shoes. And don’t miss these fun spots:
Fenway Park: If you can, take in a game here, at one of America’s most beloved baseball stadiums since 1912.
Pro Tip: Swing by to visit the Green Monster on one of the 50-minute tours offered daily.
The Museum of Fine Arts: With almost a half million works of art, the MFA is the fourth largest museum in the United States. All-day access to galleries and special exhibitions.
Pro Tip: There are free guided tours and gallery talks.
Freedom Trail: Did you know that there’s a 2.5-mile, red-lined route that leads you to 16 historically significant sites—each one an authentic treasure? While you’re walking, you’ll learn all about the rich history of the American Revolution, as it began in Boston, where every step tells a story.
Pro Tip: You can buy discounted online tour tickets here.
WHERE TO SHOP FOR DEALS
Faneu
il Hall Marketplace: In the heart of downtown Boston, right along the Freedom Trail, you’ll find this cool festival marketplace full of all kinds of shopping and eating options. It may be a haven for tourists, but so what? That what makes this area pulse with excitement.
Fun Fact: The original building dates back to 1742 and you can feel the history in the cobblestone streets.
Pro Tip: Stop shopping to catch some music or street performers that will make you pull out your camera.
Newbury Street: Anyone who’s anyone is strolling along this, Boston’s most enchanting street, which started life underwater. Today, you’ll find eight quaint blocks filled with salons, boutiques, and dining.
Pro Tip: Before you know it, you’ll be weighted down with parcels so bring a big purse or backpack to carry stuff.
Next page: Where to Eat in Boston
