Category Archives: Boston

The 19 Best Walking Tours in Boston

a historical actor leading a walking tour in Boston
Posted: 6/10/19 | June 10th, 2019

I love Boston — and not just because I was born there.

There are tons of free things to do in Boston, enough to keep any visitor thoroughly entertained. It’s also a historic city whose success (and survival) was tied to the very existence of America itself.

With such historical significance, it should come as no surprise that I’ve always found the city fascinating (I studied history in college after all).

Boston’s roots stretch back to the 17th century, when it was founded by Puritan colonists from Europe. It was a devout settlement, with enforced church attendance and marriage (persecution of sinners was equally enforced).

The city was home to one of the first schools in America, as well as the very first college: Harvard. The settlement grew in importance, with its most significant role being during the American Revolution.

No single blog post can do Boston — and its complex and important history — justice. For that, you’ll need to visit!

To help you make the most out of your next trip to “Beantown,” I’ve put together this list of the best walking, food, and photography tours. Boston is home to tons of amazing free and paid walking tours that will give you a much better overview of the city and its historical contributions to modern-day America.

Whether you’re a budget backpacker looking to learn something new or a history buff ready to test your expert knowledge, Boston will have a walking tour for you!

The Best Free Walking Tours in Boston

the downtown skyline of Boston, Massachusetts
1. Free Tours By Foot
Free Tours by Foot is one of the biggest an best free walking tours out there. I’ve been on their walking tours all around the world and always come back having learned something new. They have over half a dozen different tours around Boston, though I think the Freedom Trail tour is the best place to start. If you’re looking for something more unique, be sure to check out the Beacon Hill Crime tour!

2. GPS My City
If you’d rather do a self-guided tour on your own time, this app is a great resource and will help you explore the city at your leisure. There are over a dozen different routes offered, and you can mix and match all the destinations to make your own tour too. This is a good option if you don’t want to commit to a three-hour walking tour but still want to see some of the sights.

3. Sam Adams Brewery Tour
If you’re the sort of traveler who often gets thirsty on your tours, then this might be the one for you! The Sam Adams Brewery has a free tour of its famous brewery, and it includes a few samples to quench your thirst (you have to be over 21 of course). The tour is offered daily and and fills up fast, so be sure to get there early as there is often a wait (especially on weekends).

30 Germania St. Tours occur roughly every 40 minutes between 10am and 3pm Monday-Thursday, 10am-5:30pm on Fridays, and 10am-3pm on Saturdays.

4. State House Tour
The Massachusetts State House, home to the governor and government of Massachusetts, has free tours during the week. You can join a guided tour or take a self-guided tour if you’d rather go solo. Tours last 30-45 minutes. You’ll learn about the building, which was built in 1798 and went way over budget, as well as how the state government functions. If you’re a fan of architecture or politics, this brief but informative tour is worth checking out.

24 Beacon St. Tours are available Monday-Friday between 10am and 3:30pm. To organize a free tour, call +1 617-727-3676.

5. Freedom Trail Self-Guided Tour
For a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail, use this free map. It has all of the major sites and some suggested itineraries based on how long you want to spend exploring the city. If you’re looking for a simple self-guided option that covers all the major historical sites, look no further!

The Best Paid Walking Tours in Boston

the skyline of Boston at night
While free tours are a great place to start, for a more in-depth and specialized tour, you’ll need pay some money. Here are some that are well worth the price!

6. Context Travel
Context is one of my favorite walking tour companies. It offers comprehensive history, food, and cultural tours in cities all around the world — including Boston! There are over a dozen private and guided tours in the city, and while they are not cheap, they are worth every penny. All of their guides are experts in their respective fields, which means any and all of your questions will be answered. If you’re looking for a serious and professional tour, this is it. Tours from $85 USD per person.

7. Cambridge Historical Tours
Cambridge Historical Tours does a great job of blending rigorously researched history and humor, creating an entertaining and informative tour for all ages. They have a few different walks worth checking out, including the Freedom Trail tour and the evening Ghost Tour. The prices are reasonable (especially if you’re a group) and their costumed guides are top notch. Tours from $20 USD per person.

8. Intrepid Urban Adventures
Urban Adventures is a branch of Intrepid Travel, my go-to company for multiday excursions. Their Urban Adventures division runs tours in almost 100 countries around the globe, including some fun tours in Boston.

They have both history and food tours (as well as one that combines both), though I think the most interesting one is the Bowling and Bites tour, a food trek through East Boston that ends in bowling and billiards! Tours from $46 USD per person.

9. Bites of Boston
Bites of Boston offers three different food tours around town, each in a distinct neighborhood. Each lasts a few hours, giving you a nice range of culture and food from some of the best restaurants in town. Tours from $65 USD per person.

10. PhotoWalks Tours
If you’re a shutterbug looking to snap a few shots, this is the tour for you. PhotoWalks Tours offers half a dozen different photo tours around Boston, highlighting the most Insta-worthy shots the city has to offer. Tours are available year-round, as well, letting you embrace the colors of each season. Tours from $40 USD per person.

11. On Location Tours
This is the perfect tour for movie buffs. On Location Tours will take you to all the major filming locations from popular movies and TV shows shot in Boston, including The Departed, Good Will Hunting, Amistad, and Cheers. Tours from $31 USD per person. Check their schedule for availability as tours only occur between April and October.

12. Boston Pizza Tours
Boston Pizza Tours organizes two tasty tours that will take you around town to sample some of Boston’s best pies. The Historic Taverns tour goes a step further, taking you to some of the oldest taverns in the city — as well as the oldest tavern in the country! The best part? You’ll be enjoying a slice and a pint in the same taverns as Paul Revere and Sam Adams! Tours from $44 USD per person.

13. City Wine Tours
This wine tour combines the best wines Boston has to offer with delicious food at some of the best restaurants in town. They have tours for different neighborhoods, and you can also book private tours and events if you’re looking for something special. Tours from $75 USD per person.

14. Trademark Tours
Trademark Tours has put together a great tour of Harvard (led by Harvard students), as well as ones of MIT (led by MIT students) and the Freedom Trail. They are much more affordable than some of the other companies, making this a good middle-of-the-road option for anyone on a budget (as well as for families). Tours from $12 USD per person.

***

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone just looking to explore one of the best cities in America, Boston will have a walking tour to suit your needs — no matter your budget!

Book Your Trip to Boston: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time. My favorite place to stay is:

  • HI Boston – This hostel is in a great location, has its own coffee bar with lots of space to hang out, and also has female-only dorms. It’s really secure and the staff are great too. It’s the best hostel in town!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting Boston?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Boston with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo Credit: 1

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How to Spend Five Days in Boston

Empty streets of Boston, USA on a bright day
Posted: 5/30/2019 | May 20th, 2019

One of the most historic cities in the United States, Boston is the city I called home for the first 25 years of my life.

More a collection of towns than a metropolis like New York, Boston is a city steeped in history (it contains a lot of historical firsts for the United States and played a pivotal role in its founding), delicious food, wide-open green spaces, first-rate museums, and warm, welcoming people.

Visiting Boston offers all the benefits of a big metropolis without the intensity and fast pace of New York.

Boston is easy to get around and compact, making it perfect for travelers. The subway will take you wherever you need to go.

So how many days do you need to visit Boston?

Most people visit for three to four days, and I think that’s a perfect amount of time. As someone who’s lived there, I can say that, since Boston is so small, you won’t waste a lot of time “in transit,” so you can pack a lot into your days. Obviously, you can spend longer here (slow travel is the best travel), but for the first-time visitor, three to four days is enough.

Here’s a suggested Boston itinerary that will allow you to see the best of Boston:

Visiting Boston: Day 1

Take a Free Walking Tour
a sunny day in downtown boston during a walking tour of the city
If walking the Freedom Trail and the Black Heritage Trail wasn’t enough for you, there are plenty of other walking/food tours around town to keep you entertained! While the food tours, wine tours (yes, there are wine tours!), and historical tours will cost money, both Free Tours by Foot and Strawberry Tours offer daily free walking tours around town. They’re a great way to get oriented and see the major sights without breaking the bank. Just be sure to tip your guides!

Hike the Freedom Trail
Boston's Freedom Trail sign
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walk through historic Boston. It takes you through all the major sites and monuments relating to the city’s founding and the Revolutionary War. The trail begins in the Boston Commons and ends at Bunker Hill. Along the way, you’ll see:

  • Boston Commons
  • Massachusetts State House
  • Park Street Church
  • Granary Burying Ground
  • King’s Chapel Burying Ground
  • Benjamin Franklin statue and the former site of Boston Latin School
  • Old Corner Bookstore
  • Old South Meeting House
  • Old State House
  • Site of the Boston Massacre
  • Faneuil Hall
  • Paul Revere House
  • Old North Church
  • Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
  • USS Constitution
  • Bunker Hill Monument

You follow a brick road through the city, and there are signs and historical markers all along the way. Given all the walking that’s involved, I would make this the only other activity of the day. You’ll want to take your time and see all the sites thoroughly.

You can also take a guided tour from the visitor’s center. Tours run hourly between 11am and 1pm, with additional tours in the afternoon in the spring and summer. Tickets are $14 USD for adults, $12 USD for students and seniors, and $8 USD for children 6-12 (free for kids under 6).

Additionally, you can take a free tour from one of the city’s other walking tour companies. Free Tours By Foot offers a walking tour that covers the Freedom Trail. It takes around two hours and is free — just be sure to tip your guide!

Lunch at Quincy Market/Faneuil Hall
Fresh seafood from Boston's Quincy Market
Quincy Market and next-door Faneuil Hall is the best place to stop and eat lunch on the Freedom Trail. There are about two dozen choices. You can get just about anything here, from Greek to sushi to sandwiches and much more. Since you’re in Boston, try the clam chowder, a local New England specialty.

After lunch, continue on the trail.

4 S Market St, +1 617-523-1300, faneuilhallmarketplace.com. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday 12pm-7pm.

Visiting Boston: Day 2

Boston Commons
The green and lush Boston Commons on a sunny summer day
Start your day (again) in the Boston Commons, a giant park that sees plenty of people on warm summer days. There are lots of paths to take, as well as the Frog Pond, where kids and adults can cool off. During the winter, there’s skating on the pond. Boston Commons is a great place to go people-watching and get pictures of the skyline.

Boston Public Gardens
The trees and water near Boston's Public Gardens on a summer day
After your early-morning walk, head across the street to the Public Gardens. Opened in 1837, the area was actually a mudflat (a coastal wetland area) before it became a garden. The land was almost used for a cemetery as well, but the city decided to create the first public botanical garden instead. These days, you can take a swan boat on the pond in the middle of the gardens, or you can simply stroll around and see some pretty flowers.

Browse for Books
tables of used books at brattle book shop in boston
Located a stone’s throw away from the Boston Commons, Brattle Book Shop is a family-run used bookstore that dates back to 1825. It’s actually one of the oldest surviving bookstores in the country! It’s home to over 250,000 books, maps, postcards, and other odds and ends. In addition to used books, the store is also home to an impressive collection of first editions and antique books.

9 West Street, +1 617-542-0210, brattlebookshop.com. Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5:30pm.

Walk Around the Back Bay
Overlooking the Back Bay area of Boston, USA
This area used to be an actual bay. Before the Europeans arrived, the indigenous population used the tidal bay to catch fish, as the bay drained completely during low tide. When the land was colonized, a dam was built and the tidal bay was eventually filled in, creating the Back Bay area.

The end of the Public Gardens meets Boston’s Back Bay, our version of New York’s SoHo and West Village. This is where Boston’s elite and wealthy live, and nearby Newbury Street is our Madison Avenue, with lots of expensive shopping and high-end eateries. It’s a beautiful space to stroll around, with pretty brownstones and tree-lined streets. You can still see plenty of old Victorian homes in this neighborhood that date back to the 19th century.

Copley Square and Trinity Church
Trinity Church on a summer's day in Boston, USA
Copley Square is a great little park where you can buy discount theater tickets, listen to musicians, and gaze up at the Hancock Tower. You can also go into Boston’s Trinity Church, which is one of the city’s oldest and most beautiful. It was built in the 1870s after the original building burned down in the Great Fire of 1872. The style is known as Richardsonian Romanesque, which embraces the use of clay roofing, rough stones, and a massive tower. The style actually influenced churches all across the country upon its completion because it was so beautiful.

You’ll also find the Boston Public Library here. Opened in 1852, it’s one of the largest municipal libraries in the country, home to over 23 million items, with almost 4 million visitors each year.

206 Clarendon St, +1 617-536-0944, trinitychurchboston.org. The church is open for prayer and tours Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4:30pm and Sundays 12:15pm-4:30pm. Tours are $10 USD for adults, though it is free to enter for worship.

Head up to the Prudential Tower
Prudential Tower in Boston, Massachusetts
Head back toward Copley to see the Prudential Tower, colloquially known as “The Pru.” You can actually go up to the top and get a bird’s-eye view of Boston. There are 52 floors in the building, which was built in the 1960s. These days, it’s the second tallest building in the city (the John Hancock Tower is first).

800 Boylston St, +1 617-859-0648, prudentialcenter.com. Open daily from 10am-8pm (10pm in the summer). Admission is $20 USD for adults, with discount available for students, seniors, and children.

Walk the Charles River
Blue skies over Boston's Charles River
Double back toward the Charles River and walk the riverfront. If it’s summertime, you might be able to catch a free show at the Boston Hatch Shell or go sailing on the river. If not, it’s still a nice walk, where you’ll encounter runners, kids playing, and people playing sports.

47 David G. Mugar Way, +1 617-626-1250, hatchshell.com. See the website for an up-to-date list of events.

Visit the Museum of Science
The Museum of Science in Boston, USA
At the end of the riverfront is the Museum of Science. If you aren’t too tired, check out the museum and the Omni Theater inside. Though many of the exhibits are for kids, it’s still one of the best science museums in the country. The outer space exhibit is outstanding. Their permanent exhibits include displays showcasing dinosaurs, energy conservation, cartography, butterflies, wind and weather, nanotechnology, and space.

1 Science Park, +1 617-723-2500, mos.org. Open Saturday-Thursday 9am-5pm and Fridays 9am-9pm. Admission is $28 USD for adults, with discounts available for seniors and children.

Visiting Boston: Day 3

Visit the Aquarium
A penguin at Boston's aquarium
Boston’s aquarium is one of the best in the country. There are over 600 different species and over 20,000 animals here. You’ll see lionfish, penguins, eels, stingrays, and much, much more. It’s a great place to spend a few hours (especially if you are traveling with kids). It’s really well done — the fish aren’t all clustered into a few small tanks (the aquarium is over 75,000 square feet), and there’s a lot of information about how to protect the oceans.

1 Central Wharf, +1 617-973-5200, neaq.org. Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, weekends 9am-6pm. Admission is $27.95 USD for adults, with discounts available for kids and seniors.

Explore the North End
An aerial view of the north end of Boston, Massachusetts
The historic North End is the heart of Boston’s Italian community. You’ll hear just as much Italian as you will Boston accents. In the morning, you’ll see little Italian grandmas shopping while the grandpas have their morning espresso. It’s almost like being in Italy. You’ll find the best gelato outside of Italy here.

See the Skinny House
 the skinny house in Boston, USA
When you’re in the North End, visit 44 Hull Street. Known as “the Skinny House” (or the Spite House), this incredibly narrow house has a rather interesting history. Built after the Civil War, it was a passion project of Joseph Euestus, who came home from the war to find that his brother had taken over more than half of the inherited land they were meant to share. Joseph decided to build on the remaining land — which his brother thought was too small to build anything on. Joseph went ahead and built a narrow four-story home on the small slice of land to block his brother’s view.

Visit an Art Gallery or Museum
the Boston Institute of Contemporary Art
Boston has a lot of great galleries and museums, so depending on your interest, you’ll want to check out some (or all) of the galleries and museums below. It will take more than an afternoon to see them all but you can always spread these visits out over a few days!

  • Institute of Contemporary Art: If contemporary art is your cup of tea, this is for you. While it’s not my favorite style of art, I have to admit this place does put on some insightful exhibits. 25 Harbor Shore Drive, +1 617-478-3100, icaboston.org.
  • Commonwealth Museum: This museum explores the history of Massachusetts. It’s actually really interesting and entirely underrated (especially if you’re a history nerd like me). 220 Morrissey Blvd, +1 617-727-2816, sec.state.ma.us/arc.
  • Harvard Museum of Natural History: This natural history museum has exhibitions showcasing dinosaurs, animals, and minerals (including meteorites). It’s a great choice if you’re traveling with kids, though there is plenty of informative content for adults too! 26 Oxford St +1 617-495-3045, hmnh.harvard.edu.
  • Harvard University Art Museums: Harvard actually has three art museums – the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum. They are home to both modern and historical art exhibitions. See what exhibitions are running by checking their website. harvardartmuseums.org
  • Museum of Fine Arts: This museum has an impressive collection of over 450,000 pieces of fine art. It also runs all sorts of art classes throughout the year, both multi-week classes as well as single-day workshops. If you’re looking to learn something new or improve your skills, check out the website for more details. 465 Huntington Avenue, +1 617-267-9300, mfa.org.
  • Warren Anatomical Museum: Founded in 1847, this macabre museum is filled with Civil War–era medical tools as well as some unique (and perhaps unsettling) medical mysteries. It’s super weird but super neat. A definite must if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path museum! 10 Shattuck St, +1 617-432-6196, countway.harvard.edu/center-history-medicine/warren-anatomical-museum.
  • Boston Tea Party and Ships Museum: This interactive museum is home to some historic ships that have been authentically restored to show you what life was like at sea during the Boston Tea Party. It also has a really informative documentary about the events that led up to the Tea Party and the American Revolution. Best of all, you can actually throw fake crates of tea into the river yourself to see what it was like! 306 Congress St, +1 617-338-1773, bostonteapartyship.com.
  • Paul Revere House: Built in 1680, this is actually the oldest building in the entire city (it’s been renovated but it’s still the original building). The museum is filled with the family’s furniture and artifacts, giving you a sense of what life was like in Boston before the Revolution. 19 N Square, +1 617-523-2338, paulreverehouse.org.
  • Museum of Bad Art: The name says it all! This is a museum filled with terrible art. The MOBA has rotating exhibits throughout the year, so there is always something new and terrible to behold. If you feel like a laugh, definitely check out this quirky gallery! 55 Davis Square, +1 781-444-6757, museumofbadart.org.
  • Isabella Stewart Gardner MuseumThis museum is home to an amazing art collection of over 20,000 items, including European, Asian, and American art. Opened in 1903, the museum is made up of a wide-ranging collection of paintings, tapestries, decorative arts, and sculptures. It’s one of the best museums in Boston. Don’t miss it.25 Evans Way, +1 617-566-1401, gardnermuseum.org.

Visiting Boston: Day 4

Take a Free Tour of Harvard
The Harvard University campus in Cambridge is a great place to spend the day
Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest university in America. Head to its home in Cambridge (Harvard Square train stop on the Red Line) and join a free tour. Learn about the university’s history, architecture, programs, and myths.

Harvard University, +1 617-495-1000, harvard.edu/on-campus/visit-harvard/tours.

Hang Out in Harvard Square
Harvard Square is the place to be at night in Boston
When you’re finished, wander around and experience Harvard Square’s eclectic offerings. There are a lot of good street musicians to listen to (Tracy Chapman got her start here). See the mix of life in Harvard Square: walk around, stroll into used bookstores and coffee shops, and watch artists, vagabonds, locals, and college students mingle. There are some cool little shops in “The Garage.”

Arnold Arboretum
The green grass around Arnold Arboretum in Boston
Over 260 acres of free public space are open from sunrise to sunset. There are running trails, gardens, open lawns, and tons of flowers from all over the world. Relax among the plants and take a step back from the fast pace of the city. This place is much quieter than the Public Gardens and offers a wider variety of plant life. It also has a great bonsai tree collection. This is located a little outside the city, so it will take time to get to!

125 Arborway, +1 617-524-1718, arboretum.harvard.edu. Open daily 7am-7pm. Admission is free.

Take the Sam Adams Brewery Tour
Sam Adams Brewery in Boston
After four days of sightseeing, you deserve a beer or five. Luckily, this brewery is located near the Arboretum so it’s easy to visit and a great way to end your day. Sam Adams is a major brewer in Boston, and locals drink it widely and frequently. The brewery offers free tours, starting in mid-afternoon and departing every 45 minutes. You get a few free samples along the way. If you’re under 21, don’t worry. You can still go — you just can’t drink.

30 Germania St, +1 617-368-5080, samueladams.com. Tours are available Monday-Thursday and Saturdays 10am-3pm. On Friday, tours are available between 10am and 5:30pm.

See the Red Sox Play
watching a baseball game in Boston
Boston is a sports town, and Bostonians are die-hard about their teams, so you’re sure to witness some intense feelings when you attend a game. If you really want a Boston sports experience, go to a Red Sox game. If you can’t get in, hang out around the bars near Fenway. Just never, ever, ever root for the Yankees! While there be sure to visit Bleacher Bar. Opened in 2008, you can actually look out onto the field from the bar itself. It’s a good spot to watch the game if you don’t have a ticket to the game.

4 Yawkey Way, +1 877-733-7699, mlb.com/redsox/ballpark. See the website for an up-to-date schedule.

(The Sox not in season? No worries. We have the Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots. No matter the time of year, you’ll be able to find a game to see!)

Visiting Boston: Day 5

Explore the Black Heritage Trail
the start of the Black Heritage Trail in Boston
Much like the Freedom Trail, the Black Heritage Trail comprises 14 sites located around Beacon Hill that highlight important parts of African-American history in Boston. Massachusetts was actually the first state to declare slavery illegal (in 1783), and you can learn a lot about the history of slavery and the African-American experience by walking the trail. If you want to do a self-guided tour, free maps are available at the Abiel Smith School. There are several companies that also arrange guided tours (with the map it’s very simple to do yourself, though).

Visit the Children’s Museum
the children's museum in Boston
If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to spend part of your visit. It’s the second oldest children’s museum in the US and has permanent exhibits on health and exercise, construction, space, art, and diversity. It also has a real two-story house from Kyoto, Japan, that teaches kids about life there (it’s actually pretty cool!).

308 Congress Street, +1 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Open daily 10am-5pm (9pm on Fridays). Admission is $17 USD for both adults and kids (free for infants under 12 months).

See the USS Constitution
the USS Constitution in the Boston harbour
The USS Constitution was commissioned in 1797. The ship was actually named by George Washington and was used in the War of 1812 (and later in the Civil War). It’s the oldest ship in the world that is still afloat, permanently docked in the harbor. If you want to do more than just look at it (you’ll see it on the Freedom Trail), free tours are offered every 30 minutes and they are a great way to get a sense of what life at sea was life over 200 years ago!

Charlestown Navy Yard, +1 617-426-1812, ussconstitutionmuseum.org. The ship is open daily 10am-4pm (with extended hours in the summer); the museum is open 10am-5pm (with extended hours in the summer as well). Admission is free, though the museum has a suggested donation of $10-15.

Visit More Museums – With any extra time, visit more museums! There’s plenty of them to see! Try not to skip the big ones!

Go Stargazing
stargazing on a clear night
Every Wednesday, The Coit Observatory at Boston University offers free stargazing (weather permitting). It’s a really cool way to learn a bit about astronomy and fun for both children and adults (though minors need to be accompanied by an adult). Just make sure to dress for the weather, since you’ll be stargazing outside. Since the weather can be fickle, you’ll want to call ahead to make sure the stargazing is happening. Space is limited so you need to reserve your spot in advance.

725 Commonwealth Avenue, +1 617-353-2630, bu.edu/astronomy/events/public-open-night-at-the-observatory. Viewings are Wednesday evenings at 7:30pm in the autumn and winter and 8:30pm in the spring and summer.

5 Other Things to See and Do in Boston

If you’re looking for more things to do or different suggestions than above, here are some other cool things to do in Boston to add to your itinerary:

See the Mapparium – Located in the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story inverted globe serves as a giant map of the world that you can walk into via a glass bridge. It is constructed of over 600 stained-glass panels and shows the world as it looked in 1935.

200 Massachusetts Avenue, +1 617-450-7000, marybakereddylibrary.org. Open daily 10am-5pm. Admission to the Mapparium is $6 USD for adults, with discounts available for students, children, and seniors.

Head to Castle Island – Castle Island is located in South Boston and is famous for Fort Independence. When the fort was no longer needed for defense, it was actually used as the first state prison. The island covers 22 acres and has excellent beaches, as well as some running trails that are popular with the locals. There’s also an area for picnics and you can visit the old fort for free. The place gets pretty busy on the weekends during the summer, and you can often see school groups exploring the fort during the spring.

Relax at the Lawn on D – This massive green space is new to the city (when I was growing up, there was nothing in this area so you would never go there). There are all sorts of free activities happening year-round, from concerts to festivities and everything in between! There’s public seating, free Wi-Fi, art exhibitions, and a few games, like table tennis and bocce. To see what events are happening during your visit, check the website for details.

420 D St, +1 877-393-3393, signatureboston.com/lawn-on-d. Open daily 7am-10pm (hours may vary for events). Admission is free.

Hike the Blue Hills – This park is a bit out of the way, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you want to get out and stretch your legs. The 7,000-acre park is home to over 100 miles of trails and offers some picturesque viewpoints. There are also plenty of activities to keep you entertained, such as boating, fishing, skiing, and rock climbing (depending on the season). It can get busy in the summer on the weekends, so just be sure to arrive early.

Tour the Custom House – Built in the 17th century, the Custom House is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. In 1915, a tower was added to the building, making it the tallest building in the city at the time. The building is owned by Marriott Hotels now, though you can still take a free tour (by appointment) to go up to the observation deck on the 26th floor.

3 McKinley Square, +1 617-310-6300, marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosch-marriott-vacation-club-pulse-at-custom-house-boston. Tours available Sunday-Friday 10am-4pm. Tours are free though they are by appointment only.

Take a Walking Tour – In addition to free walking tours, there are also tons of paid options if you want something more in-depth. Food tours, wine tours, historical tours — you name it, the city has it! Here are a few worth checking out if you’re looking to take a tour:

***

Boston is a great city (and I’m not just saying that because I grew up there). I’ve never encountered a person who hasn’t liked it. This Boston visitor’s itinerary will give you a good overview of the city at a nice, relaxing pace. You’ll be moving around a lot, though, so make sure you get an unlimited “T” pass (subway/train pass). If you have more time, you can squeeze in some other activities.

But why rush such a beautiful place?

Take it slow. Mix and match the itinerary to suit your needs but this is how I’d structure my days if I was visiting Boston!

Book Your Trip to Boston: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com, as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use it all the time. My favorite hostel to stay at in Boston is:

  • HI Boston – This hostel is in a great location, has a spacious common area and a café, and the staff is super friendly and helpful.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use — and I think they will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting Boston?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Boston with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 6, 7, 7, 8, 15, 16, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25

The post How to Spend Five Days in Boston appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

27 Free Things to do in Boston in 2019

A view overlooking Boston, USA
Posted: 2/4/2019 | Febuary 4th, 2019

Boston is the city of my birth.

So, of course, I’m a diehard fan of the city. It holds a special place in my heart.

Boston is a historic city with roots that stretch back to the founding of the country. To me, Boston is more a collection of small towns than a big metropolis city like LA or NYC or Miami. We’re really just a bunch of townies. (All those Boston based movies that show hardcore neighborhood allegiance? They are spot on!)

As a city with a lot of students, recent graduates, and young people, Boston is a relatively cheap place to visit as it has a lot of free things to see and do.

From music events to museums to walking tours to beer tours to parks and beaches, there are many ways to save during your visit.

Here’s a list of 27 free things to do and see in Boston!

Free Things to See and Do in Boston

The city of Boston at sunset
1. Walk the Freedom Trail
Established in 1951, The Freedom Trail covers 16 historical sites and stretches 2.5 miles. This red-bricked trail will teach you almost all you need to know about Boston’s history. You can download an audio podcast to accompany your walk or you can go on an organized tour led by one of Boston’s many historic characters. Expect to spend a few couple hours walking the trail and much, much longer if you enter every site along the trail.

It’s the best way to get a feel for the city and its history and hit a bunch of historical sites on the way. If you do one thing in Boston, do this.

2. Eat in Faneuil Hall
Everyone should eat in Quincy Market at least once. Grab your meal from one of the many restaurants in the colonnade, head outside to watch the people go by, and enjoy a street performer’s show. The hall has been a meeting place in the city since the 1740s, and many speeches were given here about American independence before the Revolutionary War. After you’re done eating, walk around and spend an afternoon here people-watching

4 S Market St, +1 617-523-1300, faneuilhallmarketplace.com. Open Monday-Saturday from 10am-9pm and Sunday from 12pm-7pm.

3. Lay Out in the Common
This is essentially Boston’s version of Central Park, with the Common dating back to 1634, making it the country’s oldest park. (Fun fact: There used to be a lot more fences surrounding the park, but in WWII the iron fences were taken and scrapped for the war effort.) Lie out, read a book, play some sports, or just relax. Wander around to the nearby Public Gardens, or sit by Frog Pond. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy your day without spending a dime. In the summer, you can even take in a free Shakespearean play.

4. Catch a Concert at the Hatch Shell
BRelax by the Charles River as artists play shows at the Hatch Shell. Built in 1928, It’s here you can see the famous Boston Pops play on July 4th as well as a plethora of free summertime concerts. Sometimes the Hatch Shell even plays movies at night.

47 David G Mugar Way, +1 617-626-1250, hatchshell.com. See the website for an up-to-date list of events.

5. Head to Castle Island
Castle Island is located in South Boston and is famous for the fort located on it, Fort Independence (The fort was actually used as the first state prison. Ironic, huh?). The 22-acre island (which is technically a peninsula) extends into the harbor and has excellent beaches as well as running trails that are popular with the locals. There’s a picnic area here, and you can explore the old fort for free. The place gets pretty busy on the weekends during the summer and you can often see school groups exploring the fort during the spring.

6. Take a Tour of Harvard
Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest university in America. Head to its home in Cambridge (Harvard Square Red Line train stop) and join a free tour to learn more about it. Learn about the university’s history, architecture, programs, and myths. When you’re finished, wander around the eclectic offerings of Harvard Square. There are a lot of good street musicians here. (Fun fact: Tracy Chapman got her start playing on the streets here.)

Harvard University, +1 617-495-1000, harvard.edu/on-campus/visit-harvard/tours.

8. Free Beer Tours
Sam Adams, a major Boston brewery named after the famous statesman and Founding Father Samuel Adams, offers free tours. They occur midafternoon and depart every 45 minutes. You get a few free samples along the way, too. If you’re not over 21, don’t worry. You can still go and learn about how they make their beer and the history of the brewery. You just can’t sample it at the end.

30 Germania St, +1 617-368-5080, samueladams.com. Tours are available Monday-Thursday and on Saturdays from 10am-3pm. On Friday, tours are available between 10am-5:30pm.

9. Explore the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain
Over 260 acres of free public space is open here from sunrise to sunset. There are running trails, gardens, open lawns, and tons of flowers from all over the world. Relax among the plants and take a step back from the fast pace of the city. This place is much quieter than the Public Gardens and offers a bit more variety in plant life. They also have a huge Bonsai tree collection.

125 Arborway, +1 617-524-1718, arboretum.harvard.edu. Open daily from 7am-7pm.

10. Tour the Massachusetts State House
If history is your cup of tea, take a tour of the State House. You’ll learn about the building’s history, architecture, and how the state works. Built in 1798, this National Historic Landmark is well worth taking the time to see. Guided tours organized by volunteers and are available weekdays between 10am-3:30pm and last around 30-45 minutes (though you can also take a self-guided tour but its less fun).

24 Beacon St, +1 617-727-3676, malegislature.gov. Open weekdays from 8am-6pm, but tours are only available from 10am-3:30pm. Admission is free.

11. Climb the Bunker Hill Monument
The Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775 was one of the first major battles during the American Revolutionary War. While the British eventually took the field, the American’s wore the British forces down much more than was expected. After the battle, the British were much more cautious in their advance, which gave the American forces much more time to prepare for the coming war. The monument stands 221-feet, and you can climb to the top free of charge. There is also a nearby museum which is also free.

Monument Square, +1617-242-5601, nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/bhm.htm. Open daily from 9:30am-5pm. Admission is free.

12. Visit the USS Constitution
Commissioned in 1797 and named by George Washington, “Old Ironsides” is a heavy frigate that was used in the War of 1812 and later in the Civil War. It’s the oldest ship in the world that is still afloat, and its popularity has stopped it from being scrapped on multiple occasions. The ship is permanently docked in the harbor and free tours are offered every 30 minutes. It’s a wonderful way to get a sense of what life at sea was life over 200 years ago!

Charlestown Navy Yard, +1 617-426-1812, ussconstitutionmuseum.org. The ship is open daily from 10am-4pm (with extended hours in the summer) and the museum is open 10am-5pm (with extended hours in the summer as well). Admission is free, though the museum has a suggested donation of $10-15.

13. Take a Tour of MIT
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is one of the most famous universities in the world, known for its expertise in engineering and research. The campus, located in Cambridge, is a mass of buildings that are worth exploring to get a sense of what campus life is like and to see some very interesting art and architecture. You can pick up a free map from the information office and take a self-guided tour to explore this historic campus.

77 Massachusetts Ave, +1 617-253-1000, mit.edu.

14. Explore the Black Heritage Trail
There are 14 sites located around Beacon Hill that make up this walking tour, covering important parts of African-American history. Massachusetts was the first state to declare slavery illegal (in 1783) and you can learn a lot about the history of slavery and the African-American experience by taking this tour. Free maps are available at the Abiel Smith School if you want to do a self-guided tour, though there are several companies that also arrange guided tours (with the map it’s very simple to do yourself though).

15. Go Stargazing
The Coit Observatory at Boston University offers free stargazing with telescopes and binoculars every Wednesday evening (weather permitting). It takes place outside (obviously) so just make sure to dress for the weather. There is limited space so you need to reserve your spot in advance.

725 Commonwealth Avenue, +1 617-353-2630, bu.edu/astronomy/events/public-open-night-at-the-observatory. Viewings are Wednesday evenings at 7:30pm in the autumn and winter and 8:30pm in the spring and summer.

16. Visit a Free Museum or Art Gallery
Boston has a lot of world-class galleries and museums, with many offering free entry. Here are a few museums and galleries that offer free entry on certain days:

  • Institute of Contemporary Art – This contemporary art gallery is free on Thursdays from 5pm-9pm.
  • Commonwealth Museum – This museum explores the history of Massachusetts and is free every day.
  • Harvard Museum of Natural History – This natural history museum has exhibitions showcasing dinosaurs, animals, and minerals (including meteorites). It’s free to residents of Massachusetts as well as Bank of America customers.
  • Harvard University Art Museums – Home to both modern and historical art exhibitions, these museums are free on Saturday from 10am-12pm.
  • Museum of Fine Arts – Home to over 450,000 pieces of fine art, this museum is free on Wednesdays after 4pm, as well as on certain holidays (Memorial Day, MLK Jr. Day).
  • Warren Anatomical Museum – A macabre museum with Civil War-era medical tools as well as some “medical mysteries” that is free every day.

17. Take a Free Walking Tour
While the city’s plethora of food tours, wine tours, and historical tours will cost money, both Free Tours by Foot and Strawberry Tours offer free walking tours around the city. They’re a great way to get oriented and see the major sights without breaking the bank. Just be sure to tip your guides!

18. The Lawn on D
This huge greenspace is relatively new to the city (when I was growing up, there was nothing in this area and you would never go there) and there are all sorts of free activities happening year round (check their website for the latest). There’s public seating, free Wi-Fi, art exhibitions, and a few games like table tennis and bocce.

+1 877-393-3393, signatureboston.com/lawn-on-d. Open daily from 7am-10pm (hours may vary for events). Admission is free.

19. Go Hiking in the Blue Hills
This park is a bit out of the way, but it’s definitely worth a visit (especially if you have access to a vehicle). The 7,000-acre park is home to over 100 miles of trails and offers some panoramic viewpoints if you feel like stretching your legs and going for a hike. There are also plenty of activities to keep you entertained, such as boating, fishing, skiing, and rock climbing (depending on the season). If you go on the weekends in the summer, get there early to beat the crowds.

20. See the Skinny House
Located at 44 Hull Street in the North End, this narrow house was built just after the Civil War when Joseph Euestus came home to find his brother had taken over more than half of the land they were meant to share. Seeing that his brother had built a huge mansion on the property, Joseph built a 4-story home to block his view. The odd building definitely stands out and it’s worth seeing with your own eyes. Even though the house is only 10-feet wide, it still sold for almost $1,000,000 USD in 2017!

21. Browse for Books at Brattle Book Shop
Located a stone throw away from the Boston Common, this family-run used bookstore is home to over 250,000 items. Books, postcards, maps — and lots of other odds and ends call this place home. It’s one of the oldest bookstores in the country, having originally opened in 1825! In addition to your standard used books, the store is also home to all sorts of first editions and antique books. If you’re a book lover like me, you can’t miss this place.

9 West Street, +1 617-542-0210, brattlebookshop.com. Open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5:30pm.

22. Visit Forest Hills Cemetery
This serene Victorian cemetery sits on almost 300 acres of land and is the resting place of a few noteworthy individuals, such as the playwright Eugene O’Neill and the poet E.E Cummings. In 2006, as part of an exhibition, sculptures, including miniature buildings, were added to the cemetery.

95 Forest Hills Avenue, +1 617-524-0128, foresthillscemetery.com. Gates open daily at 7am with closing hours varying by season (check the sign upon entry to see when the cemetery closes).

23. Stroll Along the Charles River
The Charles River Esplanade is a 17-mile stretch of along the banks of Boston’s Charles River. It’s a great place to go for a walk or a run, enjoy the view from a cafe, or even head out onto the water to canoe or kayak. On a sunny day, you’ll find tons of locals here.

If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a fun playground just west of the end of Storrow Drive that has a splash pad as well as playground equipment for both older and younger children.

24. Hit the Beach
If you’re visiting during the warm summer months, hit the beach to cool down. Winthrop and Revere Beach is located just under an hour from downtown (via public transportation) and is open all year round (lifeguards are on duty from June-September). Both are two of the most popular beaches in the area during the summer. Revere Beach is over 3-miles long and the easiest to get too. There are also tons of amazing beachfront places to eat here too. Go eat at the original Kelly’s. It’s a Boston institution.

Revere beach has more stores, restaurants, and is a lot bigger. Winthrop beach is a lot quieter.

25. Go Ice Skating
If you’re visiting Boston in the winter, there are tons of places around the city to go ice skating. There is a free rink at Harvard that is open to the public. You’ll still need to rent skates (which costs $5) but the skating itself is free. It’s a great way to enjoy Boston’s chilly winter months.

26. Tour the Custom House
Built in the 17th century, this is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. It was built right up against the water on reclaimed land and when the customs office moved a tower was added to the original foundation. Built in 1915, the tower addition made the Custom House the tallest building in the city. It’s owned by Marriott Hotels now, though you can still take a free tour (by appointment) to go up to the observation deck on the 26th floor.

3 McKinley Square, +1 617-310-6300, marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosch-marriott-vacation-club-pulse-at-custom-house-boston. Tours available from Sunday-Friday between 10am-4pm. Tours are free though they are by appointment only.

27. Walk the Irish Heritage Trail
Americans of Irish descent form the largest single ethnic group in Boston (over 20% of the people in Massachusetts claim they have Irish ancestry). This historic free walking trail will take you around the city focusing on contributions made by the city’s thriving Irish community. There are 16 sites along this 3-mile walk which you can visit consecutively or in tandem with one of the city’s other historic walks.

For a map and details about the trail, visit irishheritagetrail.com.

***

Whether you’re here for the history, the food, the sports, or something else, Boston has a lot of things to do for free that will fill your entire visit and help you save a ton of money in Boston.

Book Your Trip to Boston: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time. My favorite place to stay is:

  • HI Boston – This hostel is in a great location, has its own coffee bar with lots of space to hang out, and also has female-only dorms. It’s really secure and the staff are great too. It’s the best hostel in town!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting Boston?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Boston with more tips on what to see, do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

The post 27 Free Things to do in Boston in 2019 appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

The Best Neighborhoods in Boston: Where to Stay on Your Visit

Boston all lit up at night
Posted: 12/16/2018 | December 16th, 2018

Boston. Beantown. The town. My hometown.

I love the city. I’m probably biased since I grew up here but I think it’s one of the most underappreciated cities in the entire country. It’s just a wonderful, friendly place to live and visit!

The history, the food, the sports, the community. Boston is like a big small town. It’s one of the best places in the country to visit.

And all the college students here help give the city a permanent youthful energy!

But where is the best place to stay while you’re visiting Boston?

Well, that depends.

On a lot of factors.

So, today, let me break down the best neighborhoods in Boston from a local’s point of view and give you suggested places to stay in each part of town:

Back Bay/Copley

Boston's Copley neighborhood
Back Bay is one of the best areas in the city. It an area that covers the happening Copley Square, home to the Boston Public Library and Trinity Church, as well as the beautiful homes on the surrounding streets near the river, the shops and restaurants on Newbury and Boylston, and the shops at Copley Place. It’s one of the most beautiful (and upscale) areas of the city. Fun tip: There’s a farmer’s market in Copley Plaza on Tuesday and Friday afternoons.

Best Places to Stay in Back Bay/Copley

  • BUDGET: Garrison Street Apartment – It’s hard to find a super cheap place to say in this neighborhood. This is as close as they come. Located in a historic brick building, these beautiful serviced apartments are just like staying in Airbnb and come with all the amenities of home. There’s also a beautiful rooftop.
  • MID-RANGE: Boston Copley House – Copley House is actually a set of studio apartments located in traditional brick row houses, each with fully equipped kitchens and cable TV. The building also has a beautiful rooftop.
  • LUXURY:

Downtown

downtown Boston
Downtown Boston is the city’s commercial and financial center. It’s one of the oldest parts of the city and is a maze of cobblestone streets and historic buildings against a backdrop of giant modern skyscrapers. The area has really become “hot” the last few years (it was run down when I grew up here) and you’ll find tons of hip cocktail bars and restaurants here. You’ll find lots tourist attractions that make up a section of the Freedom Trail (like the Old South Meeting House, Faneuil Hall, and the Old State House). Plus, it’s right next to Chinatown (good food) and the Commons (the city’s main park!).

Best Places to Stay in Downtown

  • BUDGET: Hostelling International Boston – The HI Boston is one of the best in the HI chain. It only opened 6 years ago so it’s still pretty new! It has a kitchen and common area as well as rooms for meetings. The beds come with a personal shelf, a reading light, and power outlets. It’s the best hostel in the city.
  • BUDGET #2: Found Hotel Boston Commons – This hotel offers dorm rooms in addition to privates, so it’s a great option if you’re on a budget. You’ll get a bunk bed with a curtain for privacy and your own locker. The private rooms are pretty small, but they’re clean and newly renovated and come with a desk. I love all the wood finishings throughout the building.
  • MID-RANGE: The Godfrey Hotel Boston – This boutique hotel has a stylish lobby as well as a fun bar serving up delicious drinks. The rooms have everything you need, include a desk area and have lots of natural light.
  • LUXURY: The Langham – This is a traditional-style hotel with a gorgeous ballroom, a chocolate bar on Saturdays in Café Fleuri, huge opulant rooms with super plush beds and pillows, incredible staff, and a gran entrance way. It’s a splurge!

Brighton/Allston

Boston's Allston; Photo by Tim Sackton (flickr:@sackton)
Brighton and Allston are two neighborhoods known for their large student and recent graduate populations. I group them together because….well, they’re super close and we locals tend to group them together as one area!  Because of this, the restaurants and bars cater mostly to the 20-something crowd. There’s not a lot of “things to do” in this part of town It’s just more a cool neighborhood to stay in with cheaper nightlife and dining options than elsewhere. You won’t find a lot of tourists here.

Best Places to Stay in Brighton/Allston

  • BUDGET: The Farrington Inn – This small guesthouse also has dorm rooms, making it one of the most affordable options in Brighton/Allston. All the rooms are air-conditioned and some come with kitchenettes. There’s free wifi too.
  • MID-RANGE: Studio Allston Hotel Boston – This ultra artsy hotel appeals to young travelers, who like making use of the common areas and the outdoor patio (complete with a rum bar). Each room comes with its own unique artwork! It’s fun place to stay, even if the rooms are kind of small!
  • LUXURY: AC Hotel by Marriott Boston Cleveland Circle – This hotel has convenient access to all of the city via the MBTA line and the GreenLine. It’s home to a nice business center and a 24-hour fitness center as well. It’s your standard chain hotel really but I like it for the location and lounge.

Fenway

Boston's Fenway Park
This area is home of the Red Sox and Fenway Park. However, Fenway is also one of the city’s most academic and cultural areas, with nearly a dozen colleges and universities located around here. In recent years, it’s beacon the yuppie capital of the city and tons of condos, new restaurants, and restaruant options have opened up. It’s a nightlife mecca, especially for the clubs and bars along Lansdowne Street. Nearby, there’s Kenmore Square, where you’ll find some pretty great museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and Symphony Hall.

Best Places to Stay in Fenway

  • BUDGET HOTEL: Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway – This is an extended-stay location near Fenway Park, with studio suites, one bedroom suites, and two bedroom suites. Each one has a kitchenette where you can save money cooking at home rather than eating out. Perfect for when you’re traveling with groups!
  • MID-RANGE: The Verb – This might be the hippest place to stay in Boston’s city center, complete with a large vinyl library exclusively for guests. There’s definitely a party vibe around the pool in the summer. It has wonderful rooms with natural life, art, and modern fixtures; free WiFi; and a fantastic fitness center.
  • LUXURY: Hotel Commonwealth – This swanky spot is the official hotel of the Boston Red Sox. The rooms are modern and ultra-luxurious coming with plush covers and usually a couch. The on site restaurant is the swanky Eastern Standard too. The hotel also has a great lounge overlooking the city.

North End

Boston's North End; photo by Michael Hicks (flickr@mulad)
The North End neighborhood is the oldest in the city and is commonly referred to as “Little Italy” since it’s where all the Italian immigrants in the 19th century settled (as such it has the best Italian food in the city). This waterfront community has cobblestone streets and plenty of good reasons to visit, including the Paul Revere House and Christ Church, with the oldest set of ringing bells in North America.

Best Places to Stay in North End

  • MID-RANGE: Battery Wharf Hotel – This place isn’t exactly budget, but the North End doesn’t really do budget. The rooms come with large TVs, free WiFi, and impressively comfortable beds. The Aragosta Bar and Bistro serves a fantastic Italian breakfast, and the Lobby Lounge does cocktails and candy (seriously). Even better: The spa is top-notch.
  • LUXURY: Boston Yacht Haven – If you want a room with a view, this is it. The Boston Yacht Haven is right on the water, and it even has its own marina (where you’ll definitely see a few super yachts around). The rooms are crazy posh, and if you can, request one with a harbor view and balcony. There’s free breakfast here and other perks include free WiFi, board games, and in-room microwave and fridge.

Cambridge/Harvard Square

Boston's Cambridge
Home to Harvard and MIT, Cambridge is a quintessential student town along the Charles River. With its grassy parks and tidy town squares, it might seem like a quiet place, but there’s a great arts scene, plenty of museums, and lots of live music. There’s a restaurant for every desire in this part of town and I think it’s one of the most culturally diverse parts of the city. This is the hip spot to be.

Best Places to Stay in Cambridge/Harvard Square

  • BUDGET: Irving House at Harvard – This is more a B&B than anything else with a cute and cozy atomosphre, comfy beds, desk, couches, a shared kitchen space, and onsite laundry facilities. It’s a peaceful place to stay.
  • MID-RANGE: Porter Square Hotel – Near Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Porter Square Hotel has a lovely patio and garden during the summer months. Other than that, it’s a pretty standard hotel with spacious rooms and lots of natural light. It’s clean, has friendly staff, and is one of the more affordable hotels in the area.
  • LUXURY: The Kendall Hotel – This gorgeous Victorian-style boutique hotel was built in 1894 and is located next to the MIT campus. Each room is decorated individually with unique art. The beds are wonderfully soft. The breakfast buffet is great, and there’s a “wine hour” each night on the rooftop. Splurge here!

Seaport

Boston's Seaport neighborhood; Photo by Sarah Nichols (flickr:@pocheco
The Seaport is home high-end restaurants and fancy cocktail lounges. When I grew up in the city, there was nothing here but the Children’s museum and a lot of empty space. Now it’s one of the coolest parts of the city with tons of condos, restaurants, museums, the awesome outdoor space Lawn on D, and the Harpoon Brewery. Every time I come back here, I’m just shocked by the change that’s happened!

Best Places to Stay in Seaport

  • BUDGET: Staypineapple at the Alise Boston – A trendy spot for young travelers, the Staypineapple has a lot of fun perks, like dog-friendly rooms and bicycle rentals. Fluffy towels and bathrobes are a nice touch.
  • MID-RANGE: Encore Bed & Breakfast – Every contemporary room at this B&B has wonderful views of Boston’s skyline, as well as queen-sized beds and great in-room sound systems. A nice breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee is served each morning! Free WiFi.
  • LUXURY: Aloft Boston Seaport District – Aloft hotels are always a good idea, and this one is no exception. All rooms have their signature beds and large walk-in showers, and the WXYZ Bar is an awesome spot to grab an evening drink.

Brookline

Victorian homes in Brookline, Boston
Brookline is a big town but part of it buttresses right against Boston and that area has a quiet, small-town feel. It’s not overly touristy and mostly a residential area with quiet streets, brick apartment buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants. Walk around and visit the many small shops and cafes, or grab lunch at one of the many amazing restaurants (like yummy quesadillas at El Centro). There’s a T line that runs through the area so it’s easy to get downtown!

Best Places to Stay in Brookline

  • BUDGET: Coolidge Corner Guest House – This little place is a gem! It’s in a quiet neighborhood, it’s comfortable and the owners are friendly. The rooms have very traditional décor, and they are all different. It includes free breakfast too.
  • MID-RANGE: Courtyard by Marriott Boston Brookline – All the rooms at the Courtyard come with a work desk, a nice seating area complete with a sofa, and a coffee maker. The fitness center has cardio machines and free weights.
  • LUXURY: The Bertram Inn – This small Inn has just 14 rooms. Each room is different – some are decorated with fancy beds (they even have old fashioned bed posts on them), curtains, and luxury leather chairs. Others are simple and floral. But, they are all “old school” and antique. It’s super cozy…and super luxurious. The hotel also has massage services onsite and free WiFi as well as a lovely patio overlooking the garden.

***

Boston is one of the best places in the country. Not only does it have picturesque neighborhoods, top-notch dining and bars, but it is steeped in history. There’s also a ton of free things to do in Boston so it won’t hit your wallet hard. One of the things I love so much about Boston is that, for one of the biggest cities in the country, each little neighborhood has its own small-town feel and you feel like this city is a collection of small towns more than a giant metropolis.

Book Your Trip to Boston: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting Boston?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Boston with more tips on what to see, do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 4, 6, 8

The post The Best Neighborhoods in Boston: Where to Stay on Your Visit appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.