Ah Boston, there’s nothing quite like you. A city of forward-thinking innovation, rich revolutionary history, and some of the best sports teams out there. Whether its a snowy stroll through the public garden or a sunny boat ride around the harbor, there is something for everyone no matter what time of year you visit.
By popular demand, here is my Boston city guide, full of noteworthy places to eat, stay and see when visiting beautiful Beantown.
Where to Eat
Monument Restaurant and Tavern in Charlestown
For a casual bite to eat, Monument in Charlestown center is a must. This restaurant boast some of the best bar food in the business at even better prices. The decor is cool and classic, mixing old and new in a fun and edgy way. If you’re here on a Tuesday night, definitely take advantage of their Taco Tuesday promo, namely the Carnitas Tacos. Other favorites on the menu include the Pork and Spring Onion Dumplings and the Smash Burger, but I promise you can’t get a bad meal here!
Tatte Bakery & Cafe
image via tattebakery.com
The last stop for any foodie visiting Boston should be the Instagram worthy Tatte Bakery. This beautiful space is one of my favorites athletically, but it’s their pastries that are the real winners. Tatte was opened in opened in 2007 by Tzurit Or and has expanded to twelve bakeries and counting, sprinkled throughout the city of Boston. Tzurit, who was born in Israel, wanted each space to feel as if someone was giving you a hug when you entered. A home away from home. With its bright white interior, signature black and white tile work, and the aroma of fresh baked bread, it’s safe to say she’s achieved that goal.
Favorites on the menu include the Avocado and Sweet Potato Tartine, Greek Style Pancakes, and the Poached Pear and Almond Muffin.
Pianttini on Newbury Street
This Italian restaurant is located on one of Boston’s most famous streets, Newbury Street. So small you might miss it, Piattini offers an extensive lunch and dinner menu and an excellent wine list. The restaurant itself sits on the basement level of the building tucked away from the hustle and bustle outside. The name Piattini is an endearing reference to owner Josephine Oliviero Megwa’s childhood nickname and picky eating habits. As the youngest of ten children and the only one to be born in the United States, the restaurant serves as a reflection of her Italian roots.
Her original concept for the restaurant was a space where friends could sip wine and share small plates, serving antipasti, bruschetta, ravioli, tortellini, and Piattini’s beloved layered eggplant, among others. Favorites on the menu include the Caprese salad, Bruschetta Trio, and Spinach Gnocchi.
Chickadee in the Seaport
Chickadee is Boston’s latest hidden gem, tucked neatly into the Innovation & Design Building in the Seaport. The restaurant was awarded with this years Best of Boston honors, and has received star studded reviews since it’s opening. Chickadee describes itself as “New England born, Mediterranean inspired,” and the menu is exactly that. I’ve never had a bad meal here, but if I had to pick my favorites it would be the Black Bean Hummus to start, followed by one of their signature Pita’s. The Spicy Cauliflower is the winner for me!
Honorable Mentions: North Square Oyster in the North End and Top Of The Hub.
What to See
Beacon Hill
image via galmeetsglam.com
One of Boston’s most charming and highly regarded neighborhoods, Beacon Hill is comprised of narrow streets and original brick sidewalks. This gorgeous section of the city is situated closely to the Charles River and has some of the most beautiful Federal style architecture around. Be sure to stop by the famous Acorn Street for a photo. It is the most photographed street in Boston and one of few with its original cobblestones still intact!
Boston Public Garden
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One of my favorite spots in the city is a park bench in the Public Garden, just beside the swan boats. Similar to Central Park in New York, it’s a welcomed escape from the hustle and bustle of the city surrounding it. The juxtaposition of cityscape and greenery is a site to behold, no matter which season.
The Seaport District
Along the South Boston waterfront is the Seaport District, lined with top of the line hotels, sleek, modern restaurants, and plenty of shopping. Many locals and tourists come here in the summer to experience the cuisine and the stunning views of Boston Harbor. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to visit the Lawn on D for a photo on their infamous swings. I also highly recommend a meal at the new Mediterranean restaurant Chickadee for one of their spicy cauliflower or cheeseburger pitas.
Museum of Fine Arts & Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
image via galmeetsglam.com
With some of the cities most noteworthy art and visuals, the Museum of Fine Arts and Gardener Museums should definitely be on your itinerary. When the weather is warm and the flowers are in bloom, the Gardener Museum is one of the most photogenic spots in the city. If you’re an art buff, be sure to book your visit to the Museum of Fine Arts in advance. The Museum is open 7 day a week and tickets will cost you $25.
Boston Public Library
image via galmeetsglam.com
Another historic and beautiful place to visit in Boston is the infamous Public Library. Established in 1848, this library was the first free municipal library in the United States. With over 20 million volumes and online resources, it is the second largest public library in the country, second only to the Library of Congress. It’s location on Boylston Street is easy to get to, and offers flexible hours. Be sure to check their website for times and events before paying a visit!
Fenway Park
Fenway Park will always be an icon of Boston. Home to the Red Sox since 1912, this ballpark is woven into the fabric of this city. As the oldest ballpark in major league baseball, Fenway has undergone many renovations and is characterized by its unique orientation and famous “Green Monster”. If you can’t catch a game, look into taking a guided tour of the park. With so much history inside its gates, this is a must when planning your trip to Boston!
The North End
The North End is Boston’s oldest residential neighborhood. Since the 1630’s, many of Bostons Italian American population have resided here, establishing many family owned restaurants and drawing in tourists from near and far. A walk down the streets of the North End is filled with the wafting smells of pasta and pastries. If you’re looking for a delicious meal, come here. Mike’s Pastry (known for their famous cannolis) is located in the North End, along with dozens of delicious and authentic Italian restaurants.
Newbury Street/Back Bay
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Newbury Street is to Boston what 5th Ave is to New York. Eight blocks filled with restaurants, art galleries, pop up shops and boutique shopping, there is truly something for everyone here. Located in Back Bay, Newbury abuts the Boston Public Gardens. This beautiful street is lined with 19th century Brownstone homes and is the perfect place for photos. Named after the original Newbury Comics, this street was turned into a shopping destination in the 1970’s. Today it is still one of the most visited spots in Boston.
Brattle Book Shop
Established in 1825, the Brattle Bookshop is one of the oldest used book shops in the country. The store offers 2 floors of general used books, 1 top floor for rare and antique books, and an outside shop used for sales. Whether you’re a book worm or not, this spot is a fun destination while in Boston. With so much history inside, you never know what you might find there!
Faneuil Hall Marketplace & Quincy Market
Faneuil Hall has been a marketplace and meeting hall since 1743. Today, it is home to many indoor outdoor retail shops and restaurants, as well as public art and landscape work. On your average day you’ll find street performers and musicians on the cobblestones. Make a pit stop at the Cheers restaurant for a drink and explore the local cuisine inside Quincy Market.
Where to Stay
The Envoy Hotel, Seaport District
image via the Envoy Hotel
The Envoy is located just over Seaport Boulevard and conveniently close to both the Seaport and Financial District. It is also home to the Outlook Kitchen and Lookout Bar. With a full breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner menu and a million dollar view of the city, this hotel is the perfect perch for visiting tourists.
Boston Park Plaza Hotel, Back Bay
Right in the center of the action, the Boston Park Plaza is the perfect place to book your stay. Steps from Newbury Street, Boston Common, and Copley Square, it is the ideal location for visitors. The rooms are reasonably priced and has recently undergone a landmark transformation. It offers all of the charm found in a historic hotel with the amenities and comforts of a new one. The hotel has been open since 1927 and is a true Boston Icon! If you are traveling solo, look into the affordable Run of House rooms.
Have you ever been to Boston? What are some of your favorite spots to visit and stay?
