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Tourist guide: what to do and see in Boston
European style in the heart of the USA.
Boston is one of the many American cities bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, which the first Englishmen crossed nearly 400 years ago to settle in this beautiful place. As one of the oldest cities in the USA, it is little wonder that Boston receives 17 million visitors every year. Home to the most popular universities and research centres on the planet, its cultural heritage is famous the world over. You can stroll down the most European-style streets in the USA on one of Boston’s famous trails, enjoy excellent views of the city on a boat tour down the River Charles or visit some of the oldest monuments and parks in the entire country. Enjoy a small slice of Europe, American style!
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
Haymarket
An open-air food market with vendors ready to meet your every need. Highly recommended.
A feast of flavours
At just a block from the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, don’t miss out on a trip to Haymarket, an outdoor market dedicated exclusively to local produce at very appealing prices. You’ll be amazed by the colourful array of fresh fruit and vegetables at this authentic and charming marketplace. First opening in 1830, the Haymarket dates back nearly two hundred years. Full of character and always very busy, this is the largest outdoor market in Boston. The air is always full of vendors promoting their latest deals and you’ll even have the chance to barter with them on the price of your goods.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
For shopping or a great day out watching street performers and visiting pavement cafés.
A bustling area
In the heart of downtown Boston, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a huge public space offering some 200,000 square metres of nationally and internationally renowned shops. Aside from the great shopping, it's also ideal for taking a break from your day and enjoying the various events and activities which take place on its streets. For example, the live music and comedy show held at the Faneuil Hall Marketplace are definitely not to be missed. You’ll also love its wide variety of eateries with eat in or takeaway options.
Wrentham Village Premium Outlets
wide variety of brands and with deep discounts is well worth a visit.
A dream for fashion addicts.
To fill your suitcase with items from the best North American brands at dizzying prices, you only have to travel about 45 minutes by car from the city center to reach Wrentham Village Premium Outlets. Here you can choose from 170 brand stores such as Nike, Banana Republic Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Gap Outlet, Barneys New York Outlet, Calvin Klein, Lacoste, Kenneth Cole, Liz Claiborne, Eddie Bauer, Mikasa, Crabtree and Evelyn, Coach, Ann Taylor, Michael Kors, Williams-Sonoma, Sony and many others. The best are, without a doubt, their discounts, which range between 25% and 75% on the original price.
Marshalls
Great value clothing and accessories to finish off the day.
Shopping for the whole family
His and her fashion at really attractive prices alongside beauty products, technology, accessories and children’s clothing. You’ll find all this and more at Marshalls, a chain of large department stores with a wide selection of American and international brands (Ralph Lauren, DKNY, Calvin Klein...). The Boston stores are at 350 Washington Street, in Downtown Crossing, and 500 Boylston Street. Both branches are open from 9.30am to 9.30pm Monday to Saturday and 11am to 8pm on Sundays.
Brattle Book Shop
This quirky bookshop is home to a wealth of literary gems. Leave yourself plenty of time as you won’t want to leave.
A book lover’s paradise
If you’re passionate about literature, this unique bookshop at 9 West Street is not to be missed. Brattle Book Shop is one of the oldest and largest second-hand bookshops in the whole country, dating back to 1825. Its shelves are stacked with rare or out-of-print novels, antique treasures, books of great historical value, maps, posters, pamphlets and other unusual items. In total, there are over 250,000 books spread over this bookshop's three floors. It is open from 9am to 5pm and you can also check it out online at www.brattlebookshop.com. Talking of literature, the bookshops in Harvard Square are also well worth a visit.
Bloomingdales, Barney's New York and Lord & Taylor
Even if you just come to look around, don’t miss out on these luxurious department stores.
Shopping in style
If you’re after a really high-class shopping experience, here are some interesting options: Bloomingdales, at 225 Boylston Street, for clothing, accessories, jewellery and the very latest trends in home décor. Barney's New York, probably the most exclusive and expensive of the three, which is part of the Copley Place complex at 100 Huntington Avenue. And last but not least, the Boston branch of Lord & Taylor, the oldest luxury department store name in the USA, at 760 Boylston Street.
Large shopping centres
If you prefer to make all your purchases under one roof then check out one of the city’s large shopping centres.
Time to hit the mall!
Copley Place is one of the most famous shopping centres in the whole city. It is home to around 60 highly luxurious stores with like names such as Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Burberry and Tiffany & Co., amongst many others. You’ll find this mall at 100 Huntington Avenue. The Prudential Center is another excellent choice for all sorts of clothing, beauty products, gifts, books, accessories, shoes, gourmet products and more...
Downtown Crossing
All types of shops as far as the eye can see. Sound like heaven to you?
If you can’t find it here, it doesn’t exist
The city’s premier shopping district. Together with its famous shopping centres, this district is also home to exquisite restaurants, souvenir shops, fashionable boutiques, street stalls and more... There are around 300 shops in Downtown Crossing offering all kinds of goods: books, gifts, clothing, health and beauty products, food, music, technology, jewellery... Some of the busiest areas have been pedestrianized, allowing shoppers free reign of the streets and go about their shopping in comfort.
Chinatown
You’ll be able to pick up all sorts of little curiosities in this quirky part of town.
A stroll around Chinatown
Located in the heart of downtown Boston, Chinatown is ideal for finding unusual souvenirs at bargain prices. Chinese immigrants began to settle in this neighbourhood during the 1880s and today the area around Beach Street has become the commercial hub of the district. The gate at the entrance to Chinatown, with a lion on each side, is one of its most photographed attractions. In addition to dozens of shops with all sorts of peculiar things for sale, there is also a lively food market and lots of Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants.
Art Newbury Street
If you’re looking for the best art galleries in town, you’ve come to the right street.
Local and international art and craft
If you’re a fan of arts and craft, don’t miss out on a trip down this street in the heart of Back Bay which, since being built in 1860, has become home to the city's best art galleries and most interesting antique stores. You’ll be able to view and purchase anything from debut pieces by emerging artists right through to art from highly acclaimed masters. As just a small example, the Art Newbury Street is home to galleries such as Axelle Fine Arts (www.axelle.com), Lanoue Fine Art (www.lanouefineart.com) and the Robert Klein Gallery. The Robert Klein Gallery, founded in 1980, is dedicated exclusively to photography dating from the 19th century through to present day. You’ll find information on upcoming expositions and the list of artists on display at www.robertkleingallery.com, where you’ll be dazzled by names such as Diane Arbus, Annie Leibovitz or Henry Carier-Bresson. The street is also home to a highly eclectic and alluring range of restaurants, cafés, bookshops and trendy or luxurious boutiques. Leave time to look around stores such as Valentino, Chanel, Armani, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs or Cartier, to name but a few.
New England Aquarium
An aquarium is always good fun, but with its huge range of sea life and shows, this one’s a must.
At the bottom of the sea
Since 1969, The New England Aquarium has been offering visitors the chance to closely observe marine species from the most exotic waters on the planet, from lionfish or a green anaconda to seadragons or a giant Pacific ocean octopus. Don’t miss out on the North Sea and Atlantic seals, manta rays, whales, turtles, sharks, lobsters, penguins and more! In total, the New England Aquarium is home to around 800 different species from all over the world. It makes for a great family day out and ideal for younger kids. Don’t miss out on the full programme of exhibitions and film screenings. The Aquarium is open from 9am to 5pm (6pm on Saturday and Sunday) and you’ll find it at number 1 Central Wharf.
Museum of Fine Arts
From Egyptian antiques to impressionist painting, this museum has it all.
True art is timeless
Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is home to Egyptian antiques, impressionist paintings, French post-impressionism from masters such as Degas, Gauguin, Van Gogh, Manet or Cézanne, work by 18th and 19th century American painters such as John Singleton Copley or Winslow Homer, Japanese ceramics and more… Founded in 1876, this is one of the most important museums in the USA with the second largest permanent collection in the whole country, behind only the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. It also hosts very successful temporary expositions. For example, its Art of Star Wars exhibition attracted a whopping 1,652,000 visitors. You’ll find it at 465 Huntington Avenue.
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
A museum dedicated to Kennedy and the story of his life, in a stunning natural location.
The life of John F. Kennedy in detail
Located in four hectares of parkland overlooking the sea this museum-library is a real tribute to the life and achievements of John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the USA. It offers plenty of historical material documenting the nation’s political evolution and federal services in the mid-20th century and the legacy of one of the country’s most charismatic leaders. Open every day from 9am to 5pm, entry for adults costs 12 dollars. Check out its collection and exhibitions and plan your visit at www.jfklibrary.org. And talking of libraries, the Mary Baker Eddy Library is also well worth a visit.
Boston Children's Museum
A perfect plan if you’re travelling with kids, guaranteed fun!
Art, culture and science for kids
If you’re on a family holiday, don’t miss out on the Boston Children's Museum with interactive displays designed for even the youngest of visitors. The Boston Children’s Museum, supported by a whole century of history, focuses on three key areas: art, culture and science, from a consistently pioneering and innovative prospective. Its goal is for children to learn in a fun and enjoyable way about reading and writing, the environment, health, world cultures, maths, literature and performing and visual arts... Visit this interactive museum at 308 Congress Street on any day of the week from 10am to 5pm, whilst on Fridays it stays open until 9pm. Find out more online at the excellent www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org.
Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology at Harvard University
It is one of the oldest museums, so it has unique archaeological material.
One of the best archaeological collections in the world.
It is one of the oldest archaeological and ethnographic museums in the world. It boasts of concentrating in its bosom one of the best and most extensive samples dedicated to the history of human culture, with materials from all over the world. It opened its doors in 1866. Among the museum's landmarks there are important collections from South America that include more than 5,000 Peruvian textile pieces, one of the largest photographic compilations that documents the cultures of indigenous peoples or the Mayan archaeological collection. most impressive on the planet. The catalog of this Peabody Museum of Anthropology and Ethnology at Harvard University includes exhibitions, workshops, conferences, publications, educational and research programs, etc.
Harvard Semitic Museum
You’ll find thousands of highly unique and valuable pieces at this museum and plenty of background information to keep you on track.
Perfect for archaeology fans
This unique museum is dedicated to teaching and research into Near Eastern archaeology, history and culture. Its rooms are full of ceramics, sculptures, coins, Egyptian sarcophagi and countless other pieces offering an insight into the architecture, language and customs of ancient civilisations in Jordan, Iraq, Israel and Tunisia. Founded in 1889, it is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday and from 1pm to 4pm on Sundays. Entry to the building, at number 6 Divinity Avenue in Cambridge, is free.
Harvard Museum of Natural History
A museum for everyone to enjoy, with plenty to see and to.
A closer look at the natural world
Three spaces in one. This is how the Harvard Museum of Natural History could be described since it includes the Museum of Comparative Zoology, the Harvard University Herbaria and the Mineralogical and Geological Museum. These three museums are dedicated to studying, investigating and preserving the natural world in order to introduce visitors of all age groups to Nature’s weird and wonderful ways. This Museum is the most visited attraction at Harvard (some 190,000 visitors a year), thanks not only to the success of its permanent collection but also of its temporary exhibitions. Master classes, lectures and other events are all also held in the Museum. It is open from 9am to 5pm and entry costs 12 dollars. Discover it at 26 Oxford Street, in Cambridge, and also online at www.hmnh.harvard.edu.
Fogg Art Museum, Bush-Reisinger Museum, and Arthur M. Sackler Museum
Unsurprisingly, Harvard is one of the best places to visit museums, among other things.
More to see at Harvard.
At Harvard University you will find three of the most essential museums in Boston. Opened to the public in 1895, the Fogg Art Museum is the oldest on the entire university campus. It exhibits a vast compendium of painting, sculpture, photography, engravings, drawings and decorative arts of European and American origin from the Middle Ages to the present day. For its part, the Bush-Reisinger Museum, founded a few years later, in 1903, is dedicated to the study of artistic creations from German-speaking countries, whether they are Austrian works from the Secession era, pieces of German Expressionism, 1920s abstract art, medieval sculpture or Bauhaus related material. Among its authors you will read names like Georg Baselitz, Anselm Kiefer and Gerhard Richter or Joseph Beuys. Finally, since 1985, the Arthur M. Sackler Museum focuses its focus on the most notable Asian art. Its world-renowned collection exhibits archaic jades of Chinese origin, ceremonial weapons, Buddhist sculptures, ceramics from China and Korea, Japanese pieces of paper art, and also significant creations from Islam, India, and ancient civilizations such as Greece, Rome, Egypt or the Near East. More at www.harvardartmuseums.org.
Museum of African American History
This museum is yet further proof of the huge importance of the Africa-American community in the city.
A passion for keeping history alive
According to all its official correspondence, this non-profit cultural institution is fully committed to preserving, conserving and interpreting the contributions of African-Americans in New England from the colonial period through to the 19th century. You’ll find the Museum of African American History in Beacon Hill, at 46 Joy Street. Its two most significant attractions are, without a doubt, the Abiel Smith School and the African Meeting House. It is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm and entry is just 5 dollars.
USS Constitution Museum
An interesting museum for an insight into American history from an unusual perspective.
Homage to the USA Navy
The USS Constitution Museum is a tribute to the USA Navy’s most iconic vessel. During your visit you’ll be swept away on a passionate journey through two centuries of American history, all centred around this famous ship. The museum first opened in 1972 and has become a true symbol of the city. Popularly known as Old Ironsides, it organises exhibitions and activities for all age groups and its interactive expositions and famous research library capture the imagination of some 300,000 visitors a year. Discover what’s on at www.ussconstitutionmuseum.org.
Getting out of the city II
This trip is ideal for fans of breath-taking views, beaches, the sea and pristine golf courses!
Stunning sea cliffs, beaches and much more
The Cape Cod Peninsula is an ideal location for taking a few days to explore the area around Boston. It stretches out along the Eastern side of Massachusetts, at around 74 miles (120 kilometres) from the city. As a very popular summer holiday destination, the region’s population has been known to double in size at this time of year. The popularity of Cape Cod lies in the beauty of its sand dunes and sea cliffs, its picturesque villages, large beaches and its clear blue seas... with seafood taking pride of place on the menu in all local restaurants. Interestingly, it is also a paradise for golf fans, with over 40 courses in the area.
Getting out of the city
Concord is a small and very charming village, which may even seem a little familiar.
If time’s on your side, this is not to be missed
If you’re in Boston on a slightly longer holiday, why not take a day trip to Concord, a small village around 20 miles (32 kilometres) from the capital of Massachusetts. In the 19th century this village was seen as one of the great focal points of the American cultural movement. Concord attracted many great philosophers, novelists and writers of the time such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Margaret Fuller, Bronson Alcott or his daughter, Louisa May Alcott, author of the famous novel Little Women. Great places to visit include the Concord Museum, The Old Manse (the Emerson and Hawthorne mansion), the Minute Man National Historical Park or the Reuben Brown House. Likewise, don’t miss out on the Orchard House, the Alcott family home and where Little Women is set.
Specialist tours around Boston
Whichever tour you choose, make full use of your expert guide to ask everything you ever wanted to know about the city.
Made-to-measure excursions
Countless companies and travel agencies offer a thousand and one ways to discover Boston on themed guided tours, whether by tram, on foot or even in an amphibious vehicle. Take a walking tour with Boston By Foot (in communal groups or private parties) to discover the rich history and cultural and architectural heritage of the city. You can choose from a huge range of options, such as literary walks trips to Beacon Hill, the Avenue of the Arts or a tour of the city’s famous Art Deco architecture. Check out the whole range of tours at www.bostonbyfoot.com. Boston Duck Tours offers another highly unique experience; a tour of the city including a dip in the River Charles in a Second World War style amphibious vehicle (known popularly as a duck). This guided tour covers the most famous monuments in the city and retells the history of the North American fight for independence. Plan your adventure online at www.bostonducktours.com.
Whale watching excursions in Boston
Getting so close to these majestic animals is simply magical, a real once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Explore the high seas!
Whale watching is one of the most popular attractions in the Boston Bay. A fully equipped high-speed catamaran, with various outside decks, video viewing systems and on-board snack bar, will transport you into the fascinating world of these marine animals whilst you receive detailed information from a specialised guide. The tour lasts for approximately three hours and will cost around 35 euros. You’ll head up to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is home to various types of whales (including some highly endangered species), dolphins, sea birds and other marine animals. These tours can be booked with operators such as Boston Harbour Cruises.
Boston National Historical Park
There are countless symbols of American independence dotted around the city, discover them all on an interesting walk.
Plan your own visit
Thanks to the Boston National Historical Park, the memory of the American fight for independence is kept alive in the hearts of the city's millions of visitors. In fact, Boston is also known as the Cradle of Liberty for its fundamental role in the country’s fight against the British. The Boston National Historical Park is an association of parks and places of interest (many of which are connected by the Freedom Trail), managed by a federal agency known as the National Park Service. It includes famous monuments such as the Bunker Hill Monument, the Charlestown Navy Yard or the Dorchester Heights fort.
Back Bay
Strut down these streets as if you’re a star.
Stroll amongst authentic colonial buildings
This is a dream neighbourhood, famous for its Victorian style houses, which are cited as the best surviving examples of 19th century urban architecture in the entire country. On the outskirts of the area you’ll find a collection of very attractive streets, such as Newbury Street, Boylston Street and Commonwealth Avenue, lined with the city's most fashionable shops and exclusive restaurants. You might even bump into a celebrity strolling around these glamorous streets. Surprisingly, Back Bay is also home to two of the highest viewpoints in Boston, the Prudential Tower and the John Hancock Tower, as well as other architectural delights such as Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library.
North End
If you’re looking for a good place to stop off when exploring the city, take a look around this fascinating part of town.
A district with a difference
As the oldest neighbourhood in Boston, a stroll around the North End offers a very special experience. Dating back to 1630, it is known locally as Little Italy since this is where most of the city’s Italian immigrants traditionally came to live. The North End is a lively and unique neighbourhood, with a huge range of all kinds of shops and attractions. To find a place for lunch or dinner, a good cup of coffee or for doing a bit of shopping, check out the website www.northendboston.com. Interestingly, the North End is also home to the narrowest house in Boston, at less than three metres wide! You’ll find it at 44 Hull Street.
Boston Common
As well as relaxing on its grassy lawns, you'll also be in one of the oldest parks in the country.
A legendary park
In the heart of the central district, Boston Common is the green lung of the city. Constructed in 1634, this large public space is the oldest urban park in the USA. Covering an area of over 50 hectares, in the past this space was used for grazing sheep and was also the site of public hangings. More recently, distinguished figures such as Martin Luther King or Pope John Paul II have given speeches here. Today, there is no better place for open-air sports or enjoying a picnic and a relaxing stroll. This is the starting point of the Freedom Trail and also forms part of a larger network of parks, known as the Emerald Necklace, which extends southwards from the Common and passes through various districts up to the Franklin park in Roxbury.
Black Heritage Trail
Boston’s African-American heritage is very important to the city, follow this trail and you’ll discover why...
A journey through African-American history
This sightseeing walk around the city is designed to trace the legacy of African-American community in 19th century Boston. Thanks to the Black Heritage Trail, you’ll find out about the fight against slavery in the USA, passing by monuments and buildings such as the Abiel Smith School or the African Meeting House. However, it’s worth knowing that some of the other historic houses along the trail are privately owned and are not open to the public. The walk is mainly around the Beacon Hill district and other key places in the history of the African-American community. As a little taster, you should know that in 1783 Massachusetts became the first American state to make slavery illegal, after which Boston became a safe haven for black slaves fleeing from the south and looking to start a new life.
Freedom Trail
A sightseeing trail around the city covering all the most iconic monuments.
The path of freedom
The Freedom Trail is the city’s most popular sightseeing walk. It is based around downtown Boston and is about 2.5 miles long (just 4 kilometres). If you complete the trail you’ll have seen 16 of the city’s most famous sights, including museums, meeting houses, churches, cemeteries and many other architectural and historical treasures. It includes the Old State House, the Paul Revere House and the Old South Meeting House, along with many other key historical sites. Thanks to this sightseeing walk, you’ll gain a first-hand account of the great revolutionary feats that characterised the city’s inhabitants. It’s not called the Freedom Trail for nothing… Allow at least two hours to complete the trail, which is marked by a red brick path.
Boston Beer Works
American food with craft beer in a tavern, what are you looking for?
A good beer and something to eat.
Here is a tavern with authentic American flavor. It can be perfect if you fancy a more informal lunch or dinner based on hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, pizzas, chicken wings, stuffed potatoes, nachos and an endless number of compelling proposals. On Saturdays and Sundays, it serves a special brunch until 2:00 p.m., which can include scrambled, fried or ranchero eggs (with nachos, cheese, guacamole, beans and pico de gallo), meat with potatoes, hamburger or stuffed Mexican tortillas. Be sure to try the craft beer that they make on the premises, which is located at 61 Brookline Avenue. Learn more at www.beerworks.net.
Stop for a snack in Harvard Square
Soak up the student atmosphere and spend the day in Harvard Square.
Stop for a snack at a pavement café
Takeaways, pavement cafés, coffee shops serving delicious cakes and sweets, restaurants open until the early hours and an endless array of food and entertainment is all waiting to be discovered in Harvard Square. This bustling student area, in Cambridge, is at the heart of one of the most prestigious university in the world. Nestled in amongst historical clay buildings, you’ll find an unbelievable range of quirky little restaurants, bookshops, newsstands, bars and more... For a quick snack, why not try Nubar, Nooir or Mr Bartley's Burger Cottage. More information go to www.harvardsquare.com.
Deuxave
Swing by this fashionable restaurant and sample some of its exquisite dishes.
Creative cuisine in the most “in” area of the city
If you’re looking for a restaurant with effortless chic, Deuxave is an excellent choice. You’ll find it at the corner of the two main streets in Back Bay (Commonwealth and Massachusetts avenue), one of the trendiest districts in the city. Expect dishes based on contemporary French and American cuisine, served in a relaxed yet refined setting. The restaurant is open until 10pm during the week and 11pm at weekends, whilst the bar, with a good selection of wines and cocktails, stays open until 1am. Don’t miss out on its website www.deuxave.com, where you can browse the menu and book your table online.
Clio Restaurant
Exceptionally prepared dishes inspired by various world cuisines.
For the most refined palates
Pure sophistication. You’ll find Clio Restaurant in the Back Bay district at 370 Commonwealth Avenue, inside an elegant boutique hotel called Eliot. Its Franco-American cuisine offers an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t miss out on creative dishes such as foie gras with milk and honey, piquillo pepper jam and candied rye; lobster with sea urchin and candied lemon or smoked Ricotta ravioli with wild mushrooms and bitter almonds. And it’s well worth saving some room for desserts such as chocolate coulant or rice pudding with coconut milk. It is closed on Sundays and the average price is over 60 euros a head.
Harmersley’s Bistro
Top quality French cuisine to savour after a long day of sightseeing.
An authentic French bistro in the heart of Boston
An exquisite blend of rustic French cuisine and American influences is what’s on the menu at this charming bistro on Tremont Street, in the heart of the city’s South End. With over twenty years’ experience, it offers hearty seasonal dishes such as crispy duck confit with creamy garlic, morels and warm cheese gougère; seared sea scallops with braised endives, baby spinach, crispy shallots and roasted lemon sauce or grilled beef skirt steak with smoky bacon, Cipollini onions, dandelion greens and charred Raclette cheese. Originally a piano store, the building been transformed into a cosmopolitan restaurant with a subtle rural touch. Dining from the lunch or dinner menu will cost 50-60 euros, including a decent wine.
Giaocomo's Restaurant and Taranta
Every type of pasta, pizza, mozzarella... feeling hungry?
Italian food is always a winner
There are tonnes Italian food fans in Boston (and, in general, all over the USA) who rely on colourful and appetising restaurants such as Giaocomo's for a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. It’s great value for money and the food comes highly recommended. Giaocomo's serves dishes such as calamari, fried bites, mozzarella, marinated mussels, beef with mushrooms and ham and all types of pasta (fettucini, ravioli, linguine...) accompanied by an endless variety of ingredients: prawns, scallops and broccoli in a creamy sauce, chicken and prawns with pesto; pumpkin with asparagus and diced ham in a Mascarpone cheese sauce... You’ll find it at 355 Hanover Street, in the heart of the North End. Another Italian restaurant, with slightly higher prices, is Taranta, which fuses southern Italian cuisine with Peruvian influences. Find out more at www.tarantarist.com.
Jasper White's Summer Shack
This is the best place to grab something to eat on your way to the baseball.
Fresh fish and baseball
If you fancy some lobster or other seafood as a tasty appetizer to the game, this is another interesting restaurant dedicated to fresh fish and seafood, the most popular raw ingredients in the city. Head to 50 Dalton Street if you’d like to sample the dishes (tuna, clams, shrimps, oysters, chicken, salads...) on offer at this modern wooden-decked restaurant with a seafaring theme. Depending on what you choose, prices vary from around 20 to 40 euros a head. If you come to the restaurant on a match day, you'll no doubt be met by lively bunch of Red Sox fans as it's just around the corner from Fenway Park.
The Barking Crab
From fish to sandwiches and, best of all, at affordable prices.
A restaurant for all budgets.
A fun red and yellow tent serves as the letter of introduction to this casual restaurant, known throughout the city for its clams and other seafood as well as for its affordable prices for all kinds of budgets. The Barking Crab is located at 88 Sleeper Street and is always very busy. It not only serves fresh fish and shellfish, but also vegetarian recipes, pastas, sandwiches, salads... The place is located at the foot of the marina, surrounded by water, and also hosts all kinds of special celebrations. Download his letter at www.barkingcrab.com.
Legal Sea Foods
If you fancy trying some really good fish, this is definitely the place for you.
Do you like fish and seafood?
Legal Seafoods is practically an institution in Boston and its philosophy is based on serving the highest quality and freshest seafood around. The relaxed and modern dining room offers beautiful views over the historical South End of the city. You really must try its famous fresh lobster, yet the shrimps, tuna, hake, crayfish, cod, oysters or scallops are also not to be missed. The price per person is around 60 euros. You’ll find it on the upper level of Copley Place at 100 Huntington Avenue.
Union Oyster House
Even if oysters aren’t really your cup of tea, don’t miss out on this legendary restaurant in Boston.
The oldest restaurant in the country
If you’re looking for somewhere with real character, you’ve come to the right place. The Union Oyster House is not only the oldest restaurant in Boston but also in the entire country, in terms offering the longest continuous service. It was founded in 1826 at 41 Union Street and its over 250 year history speaks for the quality of its food. Its iconic kitchens serve up dishes (mainly fish and seafood) such as scallops, salmon, lobster, cod, mussels, swordfish... Yet, as the name suggests, its oysters are definitely the restaurant's star dish. Don’t be late if you want to come here for dinner as the restaurant closes at 9.30pm during the week and at 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Book your table online at www.unionoysterhouse.com.
Cheers, Lizard Lounge and Regattabar
Fancy a beer in the legendary Cheers? We can’t guarantee you’ll meet Sam or Norm but we bet you’ll enjoy it all the same.
The bar where everybody knows your name
That’s right this bar really is called Cheers and right again, it really does look just like the bar in the hit 1980s sitcom. Boston is actually home to two bars from the same chain and with the very same name; the original, where the external shots for the sitcom were filmed, which you’ll find at 84 Beacon Street; and the replica, which you can visit in Faneuil Hall Marketplace. These are, without a doubt, two of the most popular bars with tourists visiting the city for the first time. Find out more at www.cheersboston.com. The website also has an online shop with all kinds of memorabilia for fans of the show. The lively atmosphere at Lizard Lounge and Regattabar is also not to be missed for a great night out in the city. Find out more at www.lizardloungeclub.com and www.regattabarjazz.com.
Kings
For a fun afternoon, why not go bowling, play a few rounds of pool and enjoy a tasty burger between games?
Typically American: bowling, hotdogs and gigantic televisions
Kings is a retro-inspired entertainment centre in the Back Bay district where you can go bowling, have a cocktail or a beer and sample some traditional American snacks (burgers, chicken wings, quesadillas, nachos with guacamole, pizza, pasta, ribs...), all accompanied by lively background music. The centre includes a games room with pool tables and other classic games, 16 bowling lanes, three bars and a restaurant. It is also perfect for watching any type of big sports events thanks to its impressive collection of no less than 30 big-screen televisions. It is open until two in the morning and also organises private events, birthdays, leaving dos, themed parties and more...
Wally’s Café, Ryles and Les Zygomates
Looking for an good night out? Head down to these clubs and enjoy some of the best rhythms around.
Jazz, blues, funk... music and fun guaranteed!
If you’re a fan of live music, both Boston and Cambridge offer an endless range of live performances from all types of bands and artists. Amongst the vast choice of venues, Wally’s Café, a lively and colourful jazz and blues club, deserves a special mention. It is open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 1.30am and on Sundays from noon to 2am. Check the music schedule on www.wallyscafe.com. Ryles, in Cambridge, is another good choice for fans of jazz, blues, Latin and funk. Discover a small taste of what to expect at www.rylesjazz.com. Finally, on 129 South Street you’ll find the restaurant and jazz club Les Zygomates, ideal for chilling out and enjoying some excellent live music from both local and international acts. More information on www.winebar.com.
Symphony Hall
One of the best places to enjoy a live concert thanks to its excellent acoustics.
Music to your ears
The acoustics in this magnificent concert hall are considered to be amongst the top three in the world. Home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra, its shoebox shaped design was conceived in 1900 by McKim, Mead and White. At 61 foot high and 125 foot wide, the building is made from a mixture of brick, iron and wood. Its original stalls, which have survived since the beginning of the 20th century, can accommodate up to 2,625 spectators. Today, the 4,800 tube organ that dominates the hall is one of its most spectacular features.
Gillette Stadium
One of the most important American football stadiums at just a short drive from the city. Fancy a visit?
For lovers of American football
The extremely popular stadium of the New England Patriots, the Foxborough town NFL team, is just 22 miles (35 kilometres) from Boston. If you’re a fan of American football this journey will be over in a blink of the eye. The stands of the Gillette Stadium can accommodate around 67,000 spectators. The New England Patriots are members of the Eastern Division of the National Football League. They are the second team ever to have won three Super Bowls in four years, between 2001 and 2004, and are also only the seventh team in the history of the NFL to win two Super Bowls in a row, in 2003 and 2004. The stadium’s synthetic grass pitch is shared with the New England Revolution of the MLS, the highest soccer league in the USA and Canada. The complex, designed by architect John Boles, opened in 2002.
TD Banknorth Garden
Home to the Celtics, a visit to this stadium is an absolute must.
The Boston Garden
This is the stadium of the Boston Celtics, the legendary NBA basketball team whose dressing rooms have been graced by players such as Bob Cousy, its first big star, Bill Russell, Dave Cownes, Larry Bird, who won three championships for the team in the 1970s, Dennis Johnson, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett. Since the team was founded in 1946, the Boston Celtics have won the championship no less than 17 times, making them the most successful team in the history of the NBA. Displaying its strong Irish heritage, the team colours are green, white and black and they play in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference. The TD Banknorth Garden first opened in 1995 and has a highly unique parquet floor made from lots of small pieces, in contrast to the majority of American courts. The stadium is in the North End and is also home to the National Hockey League’s Boston Bruins.
Fenway Park
Why not visit this stadium and if you’re lucky, catch a classic American game.
Home of the Boston Red Sox
This is the oldest stadium in American Major League Baseball. It is home to the city’s professional baseball team, the Boston Red Sox, which plays in the Eastern Division of the American League and was founded in 1893. Fenway Park first opened its doors in 1912 and has a 38,805 person capacity.
Citi Performing Arts Center
Art and entertainment is all around you, so just go with the flow and enjoy!
Pure entertainment
You’ll find this unique, multifaceted organisation known as the Citi Performing Arts Center at 270 Tremont Street in the heart of the Theatre District. It is one of the most significant non-profit organisations in the entire country and is dedicated to the arts (mainly performing arts), entertainment and to all kinds of cultural initiatives. It includes the Wang Theatre, the Shubert Theatre and the Emerson Colonial Theatre. The legendary Wang Theatre is home to organisations such as the Boston Lyric Opera and the Boston Ballet, the city’s leading dance company. Check out what’s on at www.citicenter.org.
Theatre District
Time for some entertainment and to enjoy a great live performance.
It isn’t Broadway... but it feels a lot like it
Part of the reason why Boston is seen as the cultural epicentre of New England is thanks to its rich and highly varied theatre tradition. You can visit the famous Theatre District at the south end of Boston Common, extending over Tremont, Boylston, Stuart and Washington street. Although there are many different venues to visit in this area, the Boston Opera House is perhaps one of the most significant, where you can enjoy the very best Broadway musicals and the highest quality ballets, plays and concerts. The Boston Centre for the Arts and the Cutler Magestic Theatre and just two other outstanding venues. Find out what’s on and book your tickets online at www.bostonoperahouseonline.com, www.bcaonline.org and www.cutlermajestic.org.
Robert Gould Shaw Monument & Massachusetts 54th Regiment Memorial
The story of this Colonel and what he meant for African-Americans will make you appreciate this monument better.
A historical event for America.
Most of the Boston history guides and books coincide in defining and recommending this monument as a tribute to the first African-American regiment of the Civil War. Precisely, Robert Gould Shaw was the man chosen to lead this troop of brave African-Americans, the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, who, coming from all the northern regions of the country and even from places as far away as the Caribbean, had voluntarily enlisted to serve in the American Civil War. This fact, which was made possible thanks to Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, was a milestone in the fight against racism that could still be felt in certain areas of the country. You can admire this commemorative construction on Beacon Street, in front of the Massachusetts State House.
Harvard University:
If you want a taste of the student experience of a lifetime, don’t miss out on a stroll around this iconic university.
A temple of knowledge (and good fun)
This is one of the most prestigious universities in the world and one of the oldest in the country. Founded in 1636, it has a highly cosmopolitan campus, welcoming over 30,000 students from 80 different countries every year. The legendary Harvard Square newsstands, called Out of Town News, are amongst the university’s most popular attractions and its world-renowned museums are also not to be missed (for more information, see the Museums section of this guide). Harvard College, as the whole site is known, extends for around 220 acres along the banks of the River Charles. It includes some 400 buildings and various residential areas for students. Its library, with over 15 million items, is the largest in the entire country. From Boston, it is around 8 miles (13 kilometres) to Cambridge, where the university can be found. Discover the full range of attractions on the university website, www.harvard.edu.
Paul Revere House
A non-profit museum documenting the intriguing tale of this beloved patriot.
Stories of spies... and silver
Born in Boston, Paul Revere (1735-1818) was a famous silversmith and patriot who fought in the American War of Independence. A very popular figure, he is remembered for his vital role as a messenger in the battles of Lexington and Concord, and for his espionage work to control the movements and advances of British troops. If you’re a fan of Contemporary History, no doubt you’ll have heard of the legendary “Midnight Ride”, thanks to which Paul Revere is recognised all over the country as an unequivocal symbol of patriotism. His house has now been converted into a non-profit museum, which you can visit at 19 North Square. www.paulreverehouse.org
Faneuil Hall
A simple village market turned symbol of independence.
Commercial and historical centre
Faneuil Hall is popularly referred to by locals as the Cradle of Liberty. Built between 1740 and 1742 by the artist John Smibert, it was designed in the style of a typical English market. Traditionally, it was used as a meeting place as well as a market. Its history is very closely linked to the Patriot uprisings against the British, being the site of various key speeches in favour of independence. Is it part of the Boston National Historical Park and was classified as a National Historic Landmark in 1960. Today, it is part of a larger complex known popularly as the Faneuil Hall Marketplace; a modern shopping centre and food hall.
Old South Meeting House
Today a meeting place, it was once the site of a key historical event.
The freedom of expression movement
This building has achieved global fame as the site of the Boston Tea Party on 16 December 1773, which was attended by some 5,000 colonists, although its construction dates back even further, to 1729. The Boston Tea Party was a historic political revolt led by the citizens of Boston against the British government and the East India Company, who were imposing strict control over the import of tea into the colonies. The Old South Meeting House has since become an open space for events and meetings, and is primarily dedicated to defending freedom of expression. It is in the Downtown Crossing area and is classified as a National Historic Landmark. www.oldsouthmeetinghouse.org
Granary Burying Ground and Copp's Hill Burying Ground
Although in principle a cemetery is not attractive, in these two you will be visiting the remains of important personalities.
Historic cemeteries.
The Granary Burying Ground is the third oldest burial ground in Boston. It was founded in 1660 and its fame is due to the fact that many patriots of the American War of Independence were buried there. In fact, the bodies of three famous signers of the Declaration of Independence rest there: Samuel Adams, Robert Treat Paine and John Hancock. Next to their graves are distributed others of clergymen, mayors, governors of Massachusetts and other personalities of ordinary life in the city. It is estimated that more than 5,000 bodies lie in it, although you can count only about 2,300 tombstones. Ahead of him, in terms of age, is the Hill Burying Ground, the second oldest cemetery in Boston.
The African Meeting House
A large part of the history of the African-American community awaits you in this nationally unique church.
Meeting place and cultural space for African-Americans
Boston is home to the oldest African-American church in the USA, at 8 Smith Court in the Beacon Hill district. Built in 1806, over the years this church as served as a temple, a school and also an important meeting place, becoming a landmark community centre thanks to its religious and educational activities. Classified as a National Historic Landmark since 1974, it can be found right next to the Abiel Smith School. Both places provide an excellent account of the history of the African-American community from slavery to the abolitionist movement. It is also home to the Museum of African American History, dedicated to preserving and interpreting the contributions of African-Americans in New England from the colonial period through to the 19th century. Find out more about its extensive history on the official website http://www.afroammuseum.org/afmbeaconhill.htm.
Park Street Church
Explore the over 200 year history of this church.
Do you know why this is the church of "firsts”?
From its inauguration back in 1809, this evangelical church has been the privileged site of many of the city’s key historic events. It is sometimes referred to as the church of "firsts” for its pioneering role in social, national and theological progress throughout its extensive history. For example, William Lloyd Garrison, a famous abolitionist, gave his first speech against slavery from the pulpit of the Park Street Church on 4 July 1829. Amongst other historic landmarks, Park Street Church saw the birth of the organist Lowell Mason, considered by many as the father of tradition protestant church music in the USA. You’ll find it on the corner of Tremont and Park Street. Discover more at www.parkstreet.org.
Prudential Tower
If you aren’t scared of heights, enjoy the view from the tower’s highest point.
One of the highest points in the city
Known colloquially as The Pru, this is one of Boston's most spectacular and iconic structures. It is the second highest skyscraper in the city, after being superseded by the John Hancock Tower. At 228 metres tall, it has 52 floors that are mainly used for offices and shops. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the panoramic observatory on its 50th floor, the Prudential Skywalk Observation Deck, where you’ll be treated to an exceptional bird’s eye view over the city. This platform is the highest public access observatory in the whole of New England. Its 52nd floor restaurant, Top of the Hub, is yet another excellent reason to visit this complex. The tower was built between 1960 and 1964 by Charles Luckman and Associates for Prudential Insurance. On special occasions (charity galas and other important events), the top of the tower is lit up in practically every imaginable colour by the recently installed LED lighting system. The Prudential Tower is actually part of a larger complex known as the Prudential Center, extending for around 23 acres over the Back Bay district, which is home to one of the city’s shopping temples called Shops at Prudential Center. Find out more at www.prudentialcenter.com.
Bunker Hill Monument
An enormous commemorative structure offering an insight into the country’s history.
A monument to the past
This gigantic granite obelisk was built to commemorate the famous Battle of Bunker Hill, which took place in 1775 during the American War of Independence. The legendary phrase “Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes!” was coined by one of the leaders of the colonists armies at this first large victory against the powerful British armies. Paradoxically, you won’t find this monument on the hill after which it is named, but rather on Breed’s Hill where the bulk of the fighting took place. The Bunker Hill Monument is 221 feet (67 metres) tall. It is part of the Boston National Historical Park and was built between 1827 and 1843. Discover the history of this legendary battle and plan your organised trip to the obelisk at http://www.nps.gov/bost/historyculture.
Massachusetts State House and Old State House
A good place to start is by visiting two of the city’s most historic buildings.
Obligatory first stop
The Massachusetts State House sits at the top of Beacon Hill and is home to both the General Court of the state and the Governor’s Office. Its huge golden dome is the most eye-catching feature of this complex, which was designed in 1798 by architect Charles Bullfinch. This dome, originally made with wooden beams, was covered in copper and coated with 23 carat gold to stop it from leaking. The Massachusetts State House is the oldest building in the whole region, which may be why it is used as a backdrop in many American films. For example, the dome of this Capitol (the American term for where a Legislature meets) appears in the last scene of The Departed by Martin Scorsese. The Old State House, one of the oldest building in the whole country, is another absolute must for those visiting the city for the first time.
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