From history to sports to shopping to music….no matter what you are into, there is something for everyone in Boston. You can go from cobblestone roads to skyscrapers in a matter of minutes. If you live in this city, you should NEVER be bored! I have put together a list of things to do here (that won’t cost an arm and a leg) whether you are a permanent resident or just visiting for the weekend.
- Boston Common & Public Garden – Located in Downtown Boston, Boston Common is the oldest park in the United States. Many influential people have spoken here including Martin Luther King, Jr. Today, it is enjoyed by millions year round. In the summer, you can cool off at Frog Pond or go ice skating on it when it’s cold. Right across the street from Boston common is the Public Garden. This park is absolutely beautiful all year round with the friendliest squirrels you will ever meet. If you are a fan of Good Will Hunting, the “Robin Williams bench” is located here, often surrounded by flowers or chalk writing in his memory.
- Beacon Hill – just north of Boston Common and Boston Public Garden, this adorable neighborhood is home to approximately 10,000 people. The State House, which sits across from Boston Common, is apart of Beacon Hill. It was built in 1798 and the copper dome is made up of 23 karat gold. Tours are free Monday – Friday. Nearby is Acorn street. This Pinterest worthy street attracts many people every day (not just tourists) to see the charm of the original cobblestone.
- Freedom Trail – this 2.5 mile route will bring you to 16 significant sites. Walking tours are available every day with multiple options if you don’t want to do the entire 2.5 miles. From museums, to churches, to burying grounds, this is one you don’t want to miss.
- North End – another popular neighborhood in Boston is home to some of the best Italian food in America. “Little Italy” is only .36 square miles but has nearly 100 establishments and attractions. I suggest trying Lucca on Hanover street for dinner. As soon as you are done there, make sure you go to Mike’s Pastry for a cannoli. Apart from the food, it is also rich in history. The North End has 12 places on the National Register of Historical Places including Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, Old North Church, and Paul Revere’s House.
- Fenway Park – home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway is the oldest ballpark in the MLB. Catch a game and sing “Sweet Caroline” at the top of your lungs. If you are here during off season, Fenway has tours of the park everyday from 10 am – 5 pm costing $20 for adults and $14 for kids.
- Newbury Street – located in Back bay between Boston Common and Brookline Ave, this mile long street is filled with a wide range of retail shops and restaurants. The closer you are to Boston Public Garden, the more expensive the shops are. Stores like Tiffany’s, Cartier and Valentino are on this end. As you go towards Brookline Ave, you will find the shops become slightly less expensive with stores like Forever 21, TJ Max and Urban Outfitters.
There is so much to do and only so many hours in the day. Luckily, we have an outstanding transportation system that can get you anywhere you need to go in a short time. Take advantage of it!