Boston Attractions
Boston, the capital city of Massachusetts, is one of the oldest and most historically-rich cities in the United States. This vibrant city boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, stunning architecture, and a bustling food and nightlife scene, making it a perfect destination for travelers from all walks of life. Here are some of the top things to do when exploring the city of Boston:
1. Explore the Freedom Trail
Boston is widely regarded as the birthplace of the American Revolution, and there’s no better way to learn about its rich history than by traversing the Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile-long route takes you through 16 historical sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.
2. Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Experience what it was like to be a part of the Boston Tea Party at this interactive museum. Visitors can tour a replica of one of the ships that were involved in the iconic protest, as well as engage in hands-on activities and multimedia exhibits that bring history to life.
3. Indulge in the city’s seafood scene
Boston is known for its fresh seafood and has some of the best clam chowder in the world. Visitors can try local seafood delicacies such as lobster rolls, fried clams, and oysters at top restaurants like The Barking Crab, Legal Sea Foods, and Neptune Oyster.
4. Stroll through Boston Common
As the oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common is not only rich with history but also a beautiful place to take a stroll. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or a game of frisbee while admiring the park’s lovely foliage and stunning views of the city skyline.
5. Catch a game at Fenway Park
The home of the Boston Red Sox is also a beloved landmark of the city. Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball and is considered by many to be a national treasure. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, catching a game at Fenway is a quintessential Boston experience.
Boston is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or sports, there’s always something new to explore and discover.
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You are guaranteed whale sightings on this whale watching tour out to Stellwagen Bank, a national marine preserve about 12 miles off the coast of Gloucester deemed one of the "Top 5 Whale Watching Destinations in the World" by the World Wildlife Fund due to the wide variety of whale species whom migrate to the coast of Gloucester, Massachusetts every year to feed on the abundant natural resources. This is one of the best whale watching in New England as it's an awe-inspiring experience which every human being should have the opportunity to appreciate.
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The Boston Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour - named one of the best hop-on, hop-off tours in the world by Forbes - is the easiest way to get around town!
Take advantage of discounted admission at area attractions, see the city at your own pace with unlimited rides, and enjoy a flexible route that features 14 stops throughout town.
Hop on the Old Town Trolley at any of its stops and take a seat while your engaging guide and narrator regales you with entertaining and educational anecdotes about Boston's past. Get to know Boston's iconic institutions and roam its lively districts, from the waterfront to the Back Bay.
Trolleys depart every 30 minutes. Each loop lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
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Looking for a whale watch that requires less travel time, offers the most comfortable ride available and gives you more time viewing some of the world's most magnificent creatures? Look no further! Here is Boston's ONLY Whale Watch on a high-speed catamaran. They will get you to and from the whales in half the time, which allows you more time to watch the whales.
Set sail with us for the whale watch experience of a lifetime. Our destination: Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds and other marine creatures. You’ll have a good chance to view several different species of large whales, including humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, pilot whales and the critically endangered right whales.
The location of the whales may require more travel time, extending the trip beyond three hours. Please allow for additional time in your schedule. The average trip is between 3.5 to 4 hours.
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Ride Boston's affordable trolley tour! CityView's silver trolleys take you through the streets of Boston and take in the highlights with a convenient and easy hop-on hop-off service. Learn about historical places and events, including the Freedom Trail, Boston Tea Party, Paul Revere’s Ride, the Boston Massacre, and Bostonians' role in America's history on this fully narrated tour. Optional 90-Minute Boston Harbor Cruise available for purchase.
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Visit the most historic and oldest ballpark in MLB. Fenway Park, also known as "America's Most Beloved Ballpark" is uniquely nestled in the city of Boston. Fenway Park is a place where dreams are made, traditions are celebrated and baseball is forever. See the home of Red Sox Legends, Williams, Yaz, Fisk and Rice. Visit Pesky's Pole and sit atop the world famous Green Monster which stands 37 feet 2 inches high overlooking left field. Experienced tour guides will provide a thrilling, one hour, walking tour of Fenway Park. Bilingual tours are available in Spanish and Japanese with advance notice. We welcome all fans to Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox and the pulse of Red Sox Nation.
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Join other adventure seekers and become an apprentice grave digger on an entertaining tour through the darker side of Boston. A scary, fun and informative frightseeing experience that is truly one of a kind.
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Boston's principal role in launching the American Revolution is linked by the brick-lined Freedom Trail. This world-famous pedestrian path is best experienced on foot, in a small group, with a knowledgeable local guide! Your 2.5-hour tour travels from Boston Common to Copp's Hill Terrace in the North End, providing guests a chance to see ALL SIXTEEN official landmarks on the Freedom Trail.
Our small-group walking tour delves deeply into the years 1760 to 1776, the tumultuous years leading into the American Revolution. We walk in the footsteps of Colonial Bostonians, all of whom grappled with the difficult—yet essential—question of loyalty or rebellion to crown and country.
With a captivating storytelling approach, Hub Town Tours provides the perfect introduction to Boston's status as America's "Cradle of Liberty." As we travel past historic landmarks from Revolutionary Boston, your guide shares the gripping story of a small colonial town careening toward war with a global empire.
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Step back in time and see how the Boston Tea Party changed American history! This Boston museum details the series of events leading to December 16, 1773, and then goes on to demonstrate how that fateful day kick-started the American Revolution. View the Robinson Tea Chest, the only known surviving tea chest from the Boston Tea Party and experience it’s amazing story. At the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, spend your day exploring the famed tall ships, throw the fated tea into Boston Harbor, explore museum exhibits, watch a captivating movie recounting the events of that time and enjoy a fully guided tour!
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Boston is an inclusive and accessible city for people with disabilities and seniors. The city has implemented various policies and programs to make the city accessible to everyone. Below are the details about accessibility in Boston for people with disabilities and seniors:
1. Transportation: The public transportation system in Boston is very accessible for people with disabilities and seniors. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has a program called The RIDE, which provides door-to-door transportation services for people with disabilities who cannot use the regular public transportation system. They also offer low-floor buses and wheelchair lifts at all subway and train stations.
2. Curbs and Sidewalks: Boston is working on making all sidewalks and curbs accessible for people with disabilities. The city is ensuring that sidewalks are wide enough for wheelchair users, and all crosswalks have curb cuts. They have also implemented tactile paving to guide visually impaired people.
3. Public Buildings: All public buildings in Boston are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. This means that all public buildings have wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and elevators.
4. Housing: Boston has various affordable housing options for people with disabilities and seniors. They have programs that provide financial assistance for people with disabilities to modify their homes to make them more accessible.
5. Entertainment: Many entertainment venues in Boston have accessibility features such as wheelchair ramps, wheelchair-accessible seating, and closed captioning or audio description for individuals with hearing or vision impairments.
6. Healthcare: Many healthcare facilities in Boston are accessible for people with disabilities and seniors. They offer wheelchair ramps, accessible parking spaces, and sign language interpreters.
7. Assistance Programs: Boston has various assistance programs for people with disabilities and seniors. These programs provide financial assistance, care management services, and other resources to support independent living.
In conclusion, Boston is a city that is committed to making all its spaces and facilities accessible to people with disabilities and seniors. The city has implemented various policies and programs to make the city more inclusive and welcoming to everyone.
City Info and Accessibility
Boston is generally a safe city for travelers, but it is always important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Some safety tips for visiting Boston include:
1. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
2. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpocketing in busy areas.
3. Use trusted transportation options and be cautious when using public transportation at night.
4. Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
5. Be cautious of traffic and use crosswalks when crossing the street.
Boston is a diverse city with a wide range of languages spoken. The most common languages spoken in Boston include English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and French.
The best time to visit Boston is during the fall (September to November) and spring (April to June) seasons. During these times, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage in the fall. The summer months (June to August) can also be a popular time to visit, but be prepared for higher tourist crowds and potentially hot and humid weather. Winters (December to February) in Boston can be cold and snowy, but the city offers various indoor activities and events during this time.
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Boston offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Boston, along with accommodation options for different budgets and needs:
1. Back Bay: This upscale neighborhood is known for its historic brownstone buildings, upscale shopping, and dining on Newbury Street. Accommodation options range from luxury hotels like The Fairmont Copley Plaza to more budget-friendly options like The Midtown Hotel.
2. Downtown Boston: This area is popular with tourists due to its proximity to attractions like Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the Freedom Trail, and the waterfront. Accommodations in Downtown Boston include upscale hotels like The Bostonian Boston and more affordable options like the HI Boston hostel.
3. Seaport District: This waterfront neighborhood has seen rapid development in recent years and is home to many modern hotels, luxury condominiums, and trendy restaurants. Accommodation options in the Seaport District include the Envoy Hotel and The Westin Boston Waterfront.
4. Cambridge: Located across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge is home to Harvard University and MIT. Accommodation options in Cambridge range from boutique hotels like The Charles Hotel to budget-friendly options like the Porter Square Hotel.
Accessible Accommodations:
For seniors and individuals with disabilities, it’s important to choose accommodations that are accessible and offer necessary facilities. Many hotels in Boston offer accessible rooms with features like grab bars in bathrooms, wheelchair-accessible rooms, and braille signage. Some recommended accessible accommodations in Boston include:
1. The Boston Park Plaza: This historic hotel in Back Bay offers accessible rooms with roll-in showers, visual alarms, and accessible routes throughout the property.
2. The Westin Copley Place: Located in the heart of Back Bay, this hotel offers accessible rooms with amenities like roll-in showers, visual alarms, and accessible parking.
3. The Liberty Hotel: Housed in a former jail in Beacon Hill, this luxury hotel offers accessible rooms with features like grab bars in bathrooms, visual alarms, and ramps for wheelchair access.
When booking accommodation in Boston, be sure to inquire about specific accessibility needs and request any necessary accommodations in advance.
Boston offers a variety of transportation options for visitors to easily navigate the city. Here are some details on the transportation options available in Boston:
1. Airport Transfers:
- Logan International Airport (BOS) is the primary airport serving Boston. It is located just 3 miles from downtown Boston.
- The airport is easily accessible by taxi, ride-sharing services (such as Uber and Lyft), airport shuttles, and public transportation.
- The Silver Line bus service connects the airport to South Station, where passengers can transfer to the subway or commuter rail.
2. Public Transport:
- The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), also known as the \"T,\" operates Boston’s subway, bus, and commuter rail services.
- The subway system, known as the \"T,\" consists of multiple lines that cover various parts of the city.
- Bus routes are available throughout the city and surrounding areas.
- The commuter rail connects Boston to the suburbs and nearby cities.
- The MBTA offers a variety of fare options, including single-ride tickets, weekly or monthly passes, and discounted fares for seniors and people with disabilities.
3. Senior and Disability Accessible Transportation:
- The MBTA offers discounted fares for seniors (65+) and people with disabilities.
- The MBTA’s paratransit service, known as \"THE RIDE,\" provides door-to-door transportation for eligible individuals who are unable to use the regular T system.
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available on all MBTA buses and subway stations.
4. Tips for Navigating the City:
- Purchase a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket for convenient access to the MBTA services.
- Use smartphone apps like Transit or Google Maps for real-time updates on public transportation.
- Boston is a walkable city, so consider exploring neighborhoods on foot.
- Ride-sharing services are readily available for convenient transportation.
- Be mindful of peak travel times, especially during rush hours, when public transportation may be crowded.
- Plan ahead for any special events or road closures that may affect transportation options.
Overall, Boston offers a diverse range of transportation options to suit the needs of visitors, including airport transfers, public transport, and accessible transportation for seniors and people with disabilities. By utilizing these services and following these tips, navigating the city can be both convenient and efficient.
1. Boston Common: The oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common offers a nice area for picnics, strolls, and admiring the scenery.
2. Boston Children’s Museum: A fun and interactive museum for children, with a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities to engage young minds.
3. Boston Public Garden: A beautiful botanical garden located next to Boston Common, featuring swan boat rides, a duck pond, and lovely views.
4. Franklin Park Zoo: A family-friendly zoo with a wide variety of animals from around the world, educational exhibits, and special events for kids.
5. The New England Aquarium: Home to thousands of aquatic animals, the New England Aquarium features touch tanks, interactive exhibits, and daily animal presentations.
6. Castle Island: A popular waterfront park with walking paths, a playground, and historic Fort Independence.
7. Boston Harbor Islands: A collection of scenic islands in Boston Harbor, offering hiking, picnicking, and exploring opportunities for families.
8. Arnold Arboretum: A beautiful botanical garden run by Harvard University, with walking trails, plant collections, and family-friendly events.
9. Fenway Park: Home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park offers tours of the historic ballpark and the chance to catch a baseball game.
10. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: An interactive museum that brings the events of the Boston Tea Party to life, with historical reenactments and hands-on activities for kids.
Boston is a city rich in cultural experiences, offering a diverse range of events and activities for locals and visitors alike. From historical landmarks to vibrant neighborhoods, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the vibrant city of Boston.
Cultural Experiences:
1. Freedom Trail: Explore Boston’s rich history by walking the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes you to 16 historical sites, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church.
2. Museum of Fine Arts: Immerse yourself in world-class art at the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world.
3. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: Visit this unique museum housed in a Venetian-style palace, featuring an eclectic collection of art, furniture, and decorative objects.
4. Boston Symphony Orchestra: Experience a world-class performance by the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Hall, known for its exceptional acoustics and talented musicians.
Local Festivals:
1. Boston Calling Music Festival: A three-day music festival held annually at Harvard Athletic Complex, featuring a lineup of top artists across various genres.
2. St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Join the lively celebration of Irish culture and heritage at the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston.
3. Boston Harborfest: Celebrate Independence Day with a week-long festival featuring historical reenactments, harbor cruises, and fireworks along the waterfront.
4. Boston Book Festival: Attend this free literary festival that brings together authors, publishers, and book lovers for panel discussions, book signings, and workshops.
Hidden Gems:
1. Arnold Arboretum: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at this peaceful botanical garden, featuring over 15,000 plants from around the world.
2. SoWa Open Market: Browse unique arts and crafts at this outdoor market in the South End, featuring local artisans, food trucks, and live music.
3. Warren Anatomical Museum: Explore the fascinating collection of medical artifacts and anatomical specimens at this hidden gem located within Harvard Medical School.
4. Neponset River Greenway: Enjoy a scenic bike ride or hike along this picturesque trail that follows the Neponset River, offering views of wildlife and lush landscapes.
Nightlife and Entertainment:
1. Theater District: Catch a Broadway show or musical at one of the theaters in Boston’s vibrant Theater District, home to the Boston Opera House and Wang Theatre.
2. Fenway Park: Experience the excitement of a Red Sox game at historic Fenway Park, known for its iconic Green Monster and lively atmosphere.
3. Harpoon Brewery: Take a brewery tour and sample craft beers at Harpoon Brewery, one of Boston’s oldest and most beloved breweries.
4. Comedy Clubs: Laugh the night away at local comedy clubs like Laugh Boston or Improv Asylum, where you can catch stand-up acts and improv shows.
Overall, Boston offers a wealth of cultural experiences, festivals, hidden gems, and nightlife options that showcase the city’s dynamic and diverse character. Whether you’re interested in history, art, music, or simply enjoying the local scene, Boston has something for everyone to enjoy.
1. **Budget-Friendly**:
- **Tasty Burger**: Known for their delicious burgers at an affordable price, with several locations in the city.
- **Anna’s Taqueria**: A popular spot for tasty and budget-friendly Mexican food, including burritos and tacos.
- **Saus**: Craving some Belgian street food? Saus offers a variety of fries, sandwiches, and dipping sauces at a reasonable price.
2. **Fine Dining**:
- **Oleana**: Experience Mediterranean-inspired fine dining at Oleana, known for its elegant ambiance and flavorful dishes.
- **Menton**: For a luxurious dining experience, Menton offers a tasting menu crafted by Chef Barbara Lynch in a sophisticated setting.
- **Mamma Maria**: This North End gem offers fine contemporary Italian cuisine in an intimate and charming setting.
3. **Allergy-Friendly**:
- **My Thai Vegan Cafe**: A popular spot offering delicious Thai dishes that are all vegan and many are gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- **By Chloe**: A plant-based, allergy-friendly restaurant with a menu that caters to various dietary requirements, including gluten-free and nut-free options.
- **Nebo Cucina & Enoteca**: This Italian restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free pasta options and has accommodations for other allergies.
4. **Dietary-Conscious**:
- **Life Alive**: A health-conscious eatery offering organic and plant-based options, including salads, wraps, and grain bowls that cater to various dietary preferences like vegetarian and vegan.
- **Dig Inn**: A farm-to-table fast-casual restaurant that focuses on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, with options for gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian diets.
- **Whole Heart Provisions**: Specializing in creative plant-based bowls and salads, Whole Heart Provisions provides options for vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free diets.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite on a budget, a special fine dining experience, allergy-friendly options, or dietary-conscious meals, Boston has a diverse range of restaurants to satisfy your cravings.
1. Currency Exchange: When traveling to Boston, it is recommended to exchange some currency to US dollars before your trip. You can do this at various exchange centers, banks, or airports.
2. Financial Tips: It is important to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, as not all places in Boston accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available throughout the city where you can withdraw cash.
3. Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws in Boston, including rules around alcohol consumption, smoking, littering, and jaywalking. It is important to abide by these laws to avoid any potential fines or legal issues.
4. Customs and Etiquette: Bostonians are generally known for their friendliness and politeness. It is customary to greet people with a friendly \"hello\" or \"hi\" and to say \"please\" and \"thank you\" when interacting with locals.
5. Safety Advice: Boston is a relatively safe city, but it is always important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded tourist areas, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.
6. Public Transportation: Boston has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and subways. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with the different routes and schedules to get around the city easily.
7. Tipping: Tipping is a common practice in Boston. In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service. Tipping is also expected for other services such as taxi rides, hotel staff, and tour guides.
8. Dress Code: Boston is a relatively casual city, but it is important to dress appropriately for different occasions. When visiting historical sites or upscale restaurants, it is advisable to dress more formally. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for walking around the city.
9. Emergency Numbers: Be sure to have important emergency numbers saved on your phone, including 911 for emergencies, as well as contact information for your embassy or consulate in case of any issues during your trip.
10. Health and Travel Insurance: It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness or injury during your trip. Make sure to carry important medical information and prescriptions with you when traveling to Boston.
