Thanks to its proximity to other major U.S. destinations like ny City, Hartford, and Providence, the historic city of Boston is convenient for any travel exploring the East Coast . Visitors can expect to seek out all the trimmings of a contemporary metropolis — excellent food and dining, upscale shopping, well-maintained green spaces.
But what sets Boston apart is is deep heritage and respect for tradition. On your first visit to the present charming coastal city, don’t miss the area’s details of interest and attractions, including classic Italian bakeries and hand-made pastas within the North End, the country’s oldest (and one among the foremost esteemed) universities, and therefore the city’s underrated natural beauty.
Freedom Trail
Follow this 2.5-mile line because it meanders through the streets of Boston, and intersects with 16 major historical sites along the way. Start at the start , middle, or end of the trail, and stop at such prominent locations because the location of the Boston Massacre, the Revere House, and therefore the Old North Church.
Boston Common
Located downtown, this public park was established in 1634, and is that the oldest urban park within the us . Originally, the Common was designed to let local livestock graze. But today, the 50-acre space is employed primarily for picnicking, strolling, cycling, and people-watching.
JFK Presidential Museum & Library
This presidential library and museum is found on Dorchester Bay, on the brink of the JFK/UMass stop on the line . The building contains both published also as unpublished correspondences from the Kennedy Administration, also as permanent exhibits featuring furnishings from his Oval Office and materials from his 1960 campaign.
Newbury Street
This eight-block stretch is lined with high-end stores like Burberry and Tiffany & Co., and may be a popular promenade for walking and shopping (or, more likely, window shopping). Grab a seat at a sidewalk patio for dinner at the buzzy Stephanie’s on Newbury or for brunch at Sonsie.
Boston Harbor
Filled with fishing boats, whale-watching vessels, sailboats, and fancy yachts, the Boston Harbor has always been the epicenter of activity in Beantown. Stand and appearance out over the Harbor from an equivalent point that the Boston party happened almost 250 years ago, or take a ferry to explore the network of Boston Harbor Islands.
Faneuil Hall
Located on the brink of the Boston Harbor , this marketplace and meeting hall has been alive since 1743. Brave the weekend crowds to go to the inside food hall, or peruse the encompassing shops.
North End
This historically Italian-American neighborhood is best-known for its classic Italian restaurants and bakeries. confirm to grab cannolis from both Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry to match the rival confections, and make certain to go to the New England Holocaust Memorial at entrance to the neighborhood.
Bunker Hill Monument
On June 17, 1775, British and New England soldiers faced one another during a bloody battle that gave New Englanders the morale boost needed to continue their fight within the Revolutionary War. Today, tourists can visit the location of “The Battle of Bunker Hill ,” now protected by the park Service.
Harvard Square
Home to the acclaimed Harvard University , this area is home to an eclectic mixture of shops, bookstores, restaurants, and bars. Admire the impressive architecture, and buy an obligatory Crimson sweatshirt or cap from the Harvard Coop Bookstore.
Arnold Arboretum
When locals need an opportunity from city life, they escape to the Arnold Arboretum, located within the Jamaica Plain section of Boston. you do not got to be a horticulturist to understand the 281 tree-filled acres. Come spring, blooming lilacs and azaleas perfume the park’s network of trails.
South End Open Market
Located within the South End, this art and style district is crammed with galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and showrooms. inspect the open vintage and style market that takes place every weekend during the spring, summer, and fall, or visit during the primary Friday of the month, when all the galleries open their doors to the general public .