Where to stay in Boston

One of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Boston, Back Bay is a mix of affluent residential streets and commercial attractions. Home to Newbury Street, Copley Place and Prudential Center malls, it’s also a major shopping destination, where you’ll find everything from big chains to cutting-edge boutiques. The mall on Commonwealth Avenue, however, is one of Back Bay’s natural treasures: 32 acres and lined with blooming trees, the central boulevard connects the city to the Public Garden. Back Bay is classic Boston and there’s plenty to do and see in this historic neighborhood.

EAT

Bistro du Midi

Take in one of the most beautiful public parks in the country from this grand dame of Boston dining. On the ground floor, find bistro-style dining and a patio ideal for lunch, with charcuterie and cheese boards, burgers and moules frites on the menu. Fine French-influenced New England seafood and stunning views of the Public Garden make for memorable meals upstairs on the second level.

DRINK

Bukowski Tavern

Small, loud and beer-focused, Bukowski Tavern might not be for everyone, but fans of dives will love this Boston classic. From appearances, you might think you’d only find PBR and High Life, but the draft and bottle list are extensive and feature hard-to-find craft beers. If you can’t choose, chat with a knowledgeable bartender or just spin the Wheel of Indecision and let fate decide. Buk’s has a vinyl collection and a record player, plus casual and satisfying fare like mac and cheese and loaded hot dogs.

Blind Duck Cocktail Lounge

The Raffles hotel in Boston is where you’ll want to go after dinner in the Back Bay. Open until a scandalous (for Boston) 2am, this swanky, newly opened cocktail lounge at the luxury hospitality brand’s first North American property serves barrel-aged spirits, hand-crafted signature cocktails and flavorful mocktails.

DO

Boston Public Library

This multifaceted attraction is more than just a library. You can get lost wandering the labyrinthine halls of the architectural gem, or join one of the free tours covering the library’s art collection, structures and gardens. At the center of the complex is a cloistered courtyard with a central fountain—a tranquil place to linger—which is overlooked by a relaxing tea room. There’s also a café and cocktail bar onsite. Another highlight is John Singer Sargent's restored epic mural, the Triumph of Religion, which dominates the third-floor gallery. Curl up with a book or attend one of the frequent author talks and book readings.

STAY

Fairmont Copley Plaza

Across Copley Plaza from the Boston Public Library library is the Fairmont. Opened in 1912, the grandeur of the era is still visible throughout, with high ceilings, intricate molding, and sparkling chandeliers. The comfortable rooms are beautifully appointed and feature Boston-themed art commissioned for the space. The hotel’s OAK Long Bar and Kitchen is an elegant brasserie boasting great cocktails and people-watching. Be sure to say hi to Cori Copley, the hotel’s canine ambassador, who can often be spotted—and pet—in the ornate marble lobby.

The distinct Italian character of the North End stems from the combination of its rich heritage and historic New England setting. The waterfront neighborhood remained somewhat isolated for decades, until the Rose Kennedy Greenway opened it up to more foot traffic from locals and visitors. (Fun fact: the grassy ribbon of parks that connects the North End to Chinatown was once the site of an elevated highway!) Old brick buildings still line the North End’s narrow streets, housing cafés, pastry shops, bakeries, red sauce gems and historic sites like the Old North Church. Dine in at one of the dozens of cozy Italian joints or tiny restaurants serving fresh seafood, or pick and choose from different specialty shops to create a custom picnic to enjoy in one of the neighborhood’s lovely little squares. Whatever you choose, don’t leave the North End without a cannoli.

EAT

The Daily Catch

There are red sauce spots galore in the North End, and most of them will treat you just fine. But if you have the chance to grab one of the limited tables at the Daily Catch, you absolutely must. Watch as the open kitchen tosses fresh-from-the-ocean lobster into housemade pasta, order from the chalkboard menu and don’t plan on doing much after—you’re going to want a nap.

Tony & Elaine’s

The retro vibes of this restaurant may make it seem like an old-school classic, but Tony & Elaine’s actually opened in 2018. It’s an homage to nostalgic Italian-American eateries of the '60s and '70s, named for the parents of second-generation North End restaurateur Nick Frattaroli. With a bottle of chianti on every checkered-clothed table, you'll find huge portions of chicken parmesan, spaghetti Bolognese, lobster ravioli and more done with the utmost care. In terms of authentic Italian-American eateries, Tony & Elaine's hit the right marks.

DRINK

Farmacia

If you’re a cocktail enthusiast who loves a plan, put this North End bar on your itinerary. Farmacia is a hidden gem, despite the hype around visiting: Most of the time you can't just walk in and order a drink. (If you want to do that in the North End, try Corner Cafe.) But if seats are available, Farmacia will take walk-ins, and last-minute openings are often shared via the bar’s Instagram stories. But your best bet is to plan ahead and make reservations for the curated experience, which we’d consider a cocktail tasting. Amounting to about three drinks across five presentations, plus snacks, and based on themes like Regions of Mexico or Autumn Flavors of New England, it’s so much fun.

DO

Take a stroll

In a city full of scenic, strollable neighborhoods, the North End might just be the most enjoyable for a walk-through. You’re likely to encounter colorful locals, international tourists and more Italian restaurants than you’ve ever seen. For a sense of the neighborhood’s history, stop by the Paul Revere House.

STAY

Boston Harbor Hotel

Just a short walk from the North End through the Greenway, this large, waterfront property is an ideal headquarters for first-time visitors to the city. The rooms offer stunning harbor and skyline views, and several restaurants and bars onsite make things easy (we love an al fresco breakfast at the Rowe’s Wharf Sea Grille). The hotel hosts the Boston Wine and Food Festival each winter, and in warmer months Trillium Brewing’s popular beer garden pops up just outside.

The Fenway neighborhood is home to the Boston Red Sox and the oldest major league ballpark still in use by a professional team. But it’s so much more than that—the stadium is named for the area, for one thing; not the other way around. The name refers to the Fens, a winding urban wild designed by influential landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in the 1870s. These days, if you ask any Boston local about what to do in Fenway, they’ll likely have a story about a big night out there. Popular sports bars and dance clubs surround America’s most beloved ballpark, and in recent years notable restaurants, wine bars, music venues and more have joined the fray. Students, young professionals and out-of-towners flock to the Fenway every night no matter the season to eat, drink and have fun.

EAT

Time Out Market Boston

The Hub's first curated food hall features 14 enticing offerings, plus two top-notch bars, outdoor dining and more. Choose from a range of delicious dishes served up by some of the biggest culinary titans in Boston, like James Beard award-winners Tim and Nancy Cushman, who take on chicken and dumplings at Ms. Clucks Deluxe; and chef Michael Schlow, who returns to the Boston scene with an Italian kitchen at Time Out Market. Cusser’s Roast Beef & Seafood, Taqueria el Barrio tortilleria, fruit-packed Far Out Ice cream and so much more awaits inside the revitalized Art Deco masterpiece, built in 1929 as a Sears, Roebuck and Company warehouse. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating makes the food hall at 401 Park Drive a prime, family-friendly, all-purpose destination in Fenway.

DRINK

Audubon

There are plenty of rowdy bars around the ballpark where you can slug back a Sam Adams before or after the game; you’ll have no problem finding those. For something a little more refined, but still casual and fun, head off the beaten path a bit to local favorite Audubon. The beer list at this Beacon Street spot includes highbrow and lowbrow choices, and creative cocktails feature house-made syrups and unlikely combinations, like the signature spicy margarita made with ancho-infused tequila. (Pro tip: Formula One fans are known to take over this spot during races, so plan accordingly.)

DO

Fenway Park

Fenway Park, which opened in 1912, is the oldest ballpark in major league baseball. Seeing a Red Sox game there, especially versus a rival, is truly one of the most Boston experiences you can come by. But even if you visit off-season, you can still experience the magic. Public tours are offered year-round, so fans and non-baseball types alike can learn about the park's colorful history. Big-name concerts and other events are held at Fenway throughout the year.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

After the Sox game (or instead of), a trip to the Gardner museum is a Boston must. Founded by the namesake eccentric socialite in 1903, the museum is a lavish reconstruction of a 15th-century Venetian palace, including an exquisite interior courtyard. Every item in the 2,500-piece collection, spanning European, Asian and Islamic art from classical times to the turn of the 20th century, is meticulously placed according to Gardner’s personal instructions.

STAY

The Verb

The Verb is a former motor lodge reborn as a trendy boutique hotel, with all the fun and funk that implies. Think mid-century furniture, Mondrian stained glass windows and a poolside scene in-season. The rooms are simple but not boring—the decor includes rotary phones, vintage speakers and local music ephemera. The lobby and pool area regularly host live music; and the hotel restaurant, Hojoko, is an izakaya and tropical drink den dishing out hip Asian-influenced fare and strong cocktails. Bonus for Red Sox fans, the Verb is just around the corner from Fenway Park.

Home to the Massachusetts State House and citified mansions owned by elites, Beacon Hill is synonymous with wealth, lineage and the old Boston Brahmin. But despite being the city’s most exclusive neighborhood, it’s accessible and welcoming to many. With red-brick row houses along steep, cobbled streets lined with gas lamps, it’s a picture-perfect backdrop for a stroll. View centuries-old architecture, tour historic homes and check out the neighborhood’s many quaint shops and cafés, then relax on Boston Common.

EAT

1928 Beacon Hill

In a neighborhood steeped in history, it’s rare to see a new opening, and particularly one that really fits. Enter 1928 Beacon Hill, a restaurant and speakeasy with major Prohibition-era vibes. Settle into a tufted banquette and select from a menu featuring lobster tortellini, braised short ribs, steak frites and the best Waldorf salad in Boston.

DRINK

The Sevens Ale House

Sitting in the heart of Beacon Hill on Charles Street, this unpretentious pub is a popular local hangout where the veteran barkeeps seemingly know everyone's name. You're likely to encounter hospital workers, tourists and nearby residents co-mingling over stiff drinks and pints of Guinness or Harpoon, which brews an exclusive Sevens Ale.

DO

Public Garden

Part of the famous Boston Common, ​​the Public Garden is America's first botanical garden free to roam throughout the year. You’ll find pathways designed for promenading, formal flower beds and a petite lagoon fringed with weeping willows and crossed by a wrought-iron bridge. The rentable waterfowl-shaped, pedal-powered Swan Boats, introduced in 1877, are adored by all, and so is the bronze monument inspired by the Boston-set book, Make Way for Ducklings. In the summer, the garden is alive with tourists and locals enjoying the sun, the wildlife and the street performers, while winter welcomes the return of ice skating on the Frog Pond.

STAY

The Liberty Hotel

The Liberty Hotel was once the Charles Street Jail, housing the likes of Malcolm X and Sacco and Vanzetti. Today the property tells a far cheerier tale, with guests enjoying drinks on a side patio that was previously the prison’s exercise yard. Many rooms have views of the Charles River and all are well-appointed and the hotel's restaurants are highly regarded. Don’t miss Scampo, run by Boston doyenne of dining, the legendary chef Lydia Shire. Appealing to guests and locals alike, the Liberty hosts regular after-work events like fashion shows, theme parties and outdoor “yappy hours” for dog lovers.

Where to go for some of the highest concentration of craveable restaurants and cafés, this walkable neighborhood has options ranging from casual, low-key hangouts to high-end destinations. The South End is also home to cultural attractions like the Boston Center for the Arts and More Than Words, a non-profit bookstore and gift shop that supports local youth. The area south of Washington Street, known as SoWa, is rich with artist studios and showrooms as well as a super-popular seasonal artists market. The neighborhood is also packed with small, locally owned boutiques selling clothing, pet supplies, kid stuff and antiques.

EAT

Yunnan Kitchen

A not-so-hidden gem since Yisha Siu earned a nod from the James Beard Foundation as a nominee for Best Chef Northeast, this South End favorite is different from other Chinese restaurants in Boston. It showcases Dian fare from the ethnically diverse southwest of China. Perfect for a group, bring friends and family to share huge pots of pork in chili oil and Yongping braised chicken.

DRINK

Delux Café

The seemingly immortal Delux is a laid-back, cozy local treasure that welcomes all. (Well, there might be a wait, especially on a weekend night. But once you’re in, you may never want to leave.) Record sleeves adorns the walls, kitschy decor abounds, the restrooms are memorable (not always in a good way) and it’s cash-only, but it’s the Delux hospitality that sticks with you. Beers are fresh (even the Schlitz) and seasonal cocktails are, too, and you won’t believe the quality of comfort food coming from the tiny kitchen.

DO

SoWa Artists Guild

The 450 Harrison building in the back of the South End is the city's premier artistic hub. Featuring more than 80 artists, galleries, shops and showrooms, it contains a veritable hive of creative activity, which visitors can witness during open studios. The monthly events, held in the evenings first Fridays and every Sunday afternoon, welcome everyone from art aficionados to afterwork activity-seekers in for art, wine and mingling.

STAY

AC Hotel Boston Downtown 

The South End isn’t a neighborhood packed with hotels, but this newish AC from the Marriott brand is clean, chic and located right in the middle of the action. Despite the name (“downtown” tends to describe another area of Boston), it’s situated between Traveler and Herald streets in the South End’s up-and-coming Ink Block district. It’s a short walk from SoWa and just steps from the entrance you’ll find locally owned coffee shops like Cuppacoffee and restaurants like Bar Mezzana.

Probably the best-known public plaza in the country, Harvard Square is always bustling with studious coeds and international students, punks, tourists and business types, all being courted by various street performers. The beautiful university campus that lends its name anchors the colorful square is a draw alongside an array of restaurants, bars, shops and museums. Visitors can have a full range of experiences without leaving this corner of Cambridge.

EAT

Harvest

Since 1975, this Cambridge classic has been serving farm-to-table dishes in a comfortable dining room and patio. The kitchen embodies a sophisticated approach to New England dining with locally-sourced seafood and meats. Homemade pastas, a seafood raw bar and chophouse-style entrees are all meticulously and imaginatively prepared. The two-or three-course business lunch provides one of the area's best fine dining deals.

DRINK

Charlie's Kitchen

The old-school vibes at Charlie’s are earned from years of being the "double cheeseburger king," cheaply feeding students, professors and even local rock luminaries. But the neon-lit diner, upstairs bar and popular seasonal beer garden make Charlie's the go-to spot for drinks and more drinks—OK, maybe a basket of juicy chicken tenders, too. Plus, the jukebox is one of the best around.

DO

Harvard University

With or without any intention of ever enrolling, visitors come from around the world to prestigious Harvard University. Parts of the historic campus invoke Harry Potter’s Hogwarts; many of the new buildings, such as the Smith Campus Center and the Harvard Art Museums, feature world-class modern architecture. You can do a free official tour, or self-guided historical tour by downloading the school’s Visit Harvard app.

STAY

Charles Hotel

Modern yet refined, the Charles Hotel is a perfect match for its smart surroundings. Simple guest rooms feature Shaker furniture and handmade quilted comforters, enhanced by modern amenities. The hotel's impressive lineup of restaurants—organic-focused Henrietta’s Table, seductive bar Noir and lauded Italian restaurant Bar Enza—is popular with guests and locals. Do check graduation dates and other alumni schedules, as the Charles books up fast for big events.

Home to Cambridge's other top university, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Kendall Square contains diverse and striking architecture, including on-campus buildings by I.M. Pei and Frank Gehry. In the neighborhood—mainly home to science, tech and research offices—a busy collection of restaurants, bars and cafés makes this Cambridge locale one of the most interesting neighborhoods to explore in the Boston area.

DRINK

Cambridge Brewing Company

Boston is a pretty serious beer town—and neighboring Cambridge keeps up properly. The area’s oldest brewpub is going strong in Kendall Square. At Cambridge Brewing Company, you’ll find pours of classic styles such as the Regatta Golden, as well as bolder cask-conditioned brews and seasonals like Arquebus Barleywine. The kitchen dishes out pub grub with an authentic, locavore ethos. Think: buffalo chicken tenders served with house bleu cheese and New England-caught, beer-battered fish and chips. In good weather, CBC’s patio serves as the unofficial town square of Kendall. 

EAT

Judy’s Bay

This self-described New England izakaya on the outskirts of Kendall has a cozy fireplace and flavorful dishes like seared scallops, mushroom tofu stir-fry and lobster roe pasta. The menu changes frequently, and the sake menu is deep and varied, so get a flight if you’re not sure what you like.

Shy Bird

For more casual vibes, this hidden gem from the team behind Branch Line should do the trick. The all-day café is open from breakfast through dinner, offering bar service and comfortable seating. You can find the locally lauded rotisserie chicken on all three menus, including over a blue cheese and apple salad and as an add-on to a breakfast sandwich.

DO

The Garment District

A source for secondhand threads since the 1980s, The Garment District shares its premises with a costume shop and exemplifies the funky vibes of Cambridge. Fearless bargain seekers can pick through by-the-pound piles of mixed-up clothes and accessories priced at $2 per pound. If rummaging through clothing unceremoniously dumped on the floor isn’t your thing, check out offbeat vintage finds, crazy costumes and more across multiple levels. Browse the aisles with a keen eye—some items are unworn and immaculate. 

STAY

The Kendall Hotel

Housed in an old firehouse across from the Kendall T stop, this hotel is one of the area’s only 19th-century buildings. Sporting Queen Anne-style architecture, the Kendall Hotel is stuffed with Engine 7 firehouse memorabilia. A seven-story addition to the original firehouse includes an enclosed rooftop lounge, eight deluxe rooms and four suites with kitchens which are perfect for a family visiting for college tours. The hotel also hosts weeknight wine tastings in the lobby. Many of Cambridge’s most popular attractions are walkable from the hotel. Located just steps from the MIT campus, note that the academic calendar can affect occupancy.

The newest neighborhood in Boston never stops changing, and that’s a good thing in a city that can sometimes feel a little stuck in time. The waterfront area has long held the Boston Fish Pier, but tons of tall, glass buildings now populate the giant, windy avenues that stretch across what was once parking lots and warehouses. Home to an internationally recognized museum, fun seasonal activities (who doesn't love Snowport?) and some of the best restaurants in town, the Seaport isn’t classic Boston but it’s a great place to center your stay.

DRINK

Trillium Brewing Company

Trillium is a three-floor brewery on the Fort Point line, a historic section of the Seaport dotted with old brick factory buildings. The outstanding beer selection makes this the top destination in the area for pint or two. In warm weather, the roofdeck offers a unique vantage point on the city, where you can enjoy the view while sipping a Summer Street IPA or whatever new sour is on the menu. During the colder months, there’s plenty of cozy corners and big tables inside, and Trillium serves a nice selection of elevated pub food as well.

EAT

Hook + Line

There are a lot of overpriced glossy restaurants in the Seaport (along with a lot of great ones!), but Hook + Line, from the team behind Alcove, is truly a gem. The locally owned seafood restaurant’s wood-fired grill gives a delightful smokiness and char to the likes of baked stuffed lobster and the whole chicken, while the outside patio is the place to be in warmer months. 

Yume Ga Arakura

The newish Seaport branch of the beloved Cambridge noodle shop is equal to the original location—and maybe even a little bit better. (At least the addition means you might get your ramen faster). You may have to stand in line for this reasonably priced lunch, but the bowl of hot or cold niku udon with gelatinous strips of beef is worth the wait.

DO

Institute of Contemporary Art

Arguably the cultural cornerstone of the Seaport, the ICA is a dramatic, glass-walled building perched right on the waterfront that houses galleries, a theater and a café. The museum is the place in Boston to view (and sometimes interact with) challenging, contemporary art. After a stroll through the latest exhibits, visit the scenic outdoor harbor deck, site of numerous performances and events. Of particular note: Admission is free on Thursdays from 5 until 9pm.

STAY

Residence Inn Boston Seaport

There aren’t a lot of cozy boutique hotels in the new, bustling Seaport, but this brick-faced Residence Inn, right on Congress Street, has a lot more charm than you’d expect from a chain. While you won’t get water views, this hotel is within walking distance of top restaurants and bars in the area as well as the waterfront, convention center and outdoor concert pavilion. An easy walk into downtown, it also houses a ground-floor coffee shop to help get your day started.