Boston, MA Travel & Vacation Guide

What to Know

During America’s formative years in the 17th and 18tht centuries, Boston was at the center of the country’s fight for independence. As one of the oldest settlements in the United States, Boston may be a city known best for its many historic attractions, but it is also a city full of interesting neighborhoods, cultural attractions and acres of urban parks-all of which are best sampled on foot. Boston's large student population (there are more than 100 colleges and universities in the area) gives the city a decidedly youthful vibe. Today's Boston is not only a destination for taking in the history of Colonial America but also a cosmopolitan city with cutting-edge culture and art.

Among Boston's many neighborhoods, the areas of Back Bay, Bay Village, Beacon Hill, Chinatown, Downtown, the Fenway, the Financial District, Government Center, the North End and the South End comprise the area considered "Boston Proper" (where most of the buildings that make up the city's skyline are located). The famous Boston Harbor is still at the heart of the city’s activities, featuring restaurants, shopping and attractions centered at Long Wharf.

Boston is home to delicious seafood from the nearby New England coast. Don’t leave without sampling the local delicacies-a cup of creamy clam "chowda" from Union Oyster House is a must. For great lobster, head to the popular Legal Sea Foods. Boston is affectionately known as "Beantown" because baked beans were a favorite colonial food. Sample some out-of-this-world beans at Durgin-Park, which specializes in traditional Yankee cuisine. A variety of excellent ethnic restaurants can also be found in neighborhoods such as the North End, Chinatown and Coolidge Corner.

Where to Go

Many of the city’s most important historic attractions can be seen on walking tours. The Freedom Trail takes in the city’s revolutionary past--a 2.5 mile (4 km) walking tour of 16 historic sites that begins at Boston Common and goes through downtown Boston, the North End and Charlestown, ending at the U.S.S. Constitution.

Boston Common and Public Garden is as essential stop for tourists. In the oldest public park in America, one can ride the famous Swan Boats and enjoy the park with its shady trees, fountains, statues, sidewalk vendors and greenery. Visit the "Cheers" bar across Beacon St. but be forewarned-it’s a very popular tourist spot. Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, two of Boston's oldest marketplaces, boast shops and eateries and an array of street performers. Copley Square offers visitors scenic views and many interesting diversions. Visit the top of the nearby Prudential building with great aerial views, visit the beautiful Trinity Church or go shopping along Newbury Street (eight blocks of high-end boutiques and dining).

As you might expect from a city nicknamed the "Athens of America", Boston has a thriving art and culture scene. From the Museum of Fine Arts, the Gardner Museum and the Fogg to the Boston Symphony, the Boston Ballet and the Boston Lyric Opera, there is something for everyone.

When to Go

New England weather can be quite unpredictable. In general, early summer, from late May to early July (but varies year to year), tends to bring the most comfortable weather with temps in the 70s and 80s. One of the perks to visiting Boston in the early summer is its proximity to a number of beautiful seaside spots including Crane Beach, Wingaersheek Beach, Buzzards Bay Beaches and Nantasket Beach. Late summer can be very hot and humid with temperatures commonly in the 90s, and winter ranges from cool to bitterly cold.

A great time of year is early autumn (the month of October) when fall foliage is at its peak beauty. Check out Walden Pond State Reservation and Maudsley Sate Park for some gorgeous autumn colors.

If you don’t mind braving the crowds, Fourth of July is celebrated in a major way, with many festivities including the historic Boston Pops concert on the Esplanade along the Charles River.