Top 10 Things to do in Boston

Boston Common

Founded by the English in 1630, Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States. The city has witnessed some of America’s greatest battles, including the American Revolution and the Boston Massacre. Boston is the largest city in New England with over 4 million people in greater Boston but only a half million living downtown – making it feel more like a large town that a metropolis. In addition to the city’s revolutionary history the town is also known for its education, including the world famous Harvard University. While the lay-out of the city is not on a grid all the attractions are easily accessible by walking or via the public transport system. To maximize your time in Boston I’ve developed a Top 10 Things to do in Boston list.

1. Boston Common: Located in the center of the city this park was established in 1837 and it also incorporates the country’s first public botanical garden (Boston Public Garden).
2. Freedom Trail: Pick-up your free map from the tourist information booth located in the Boston Common. The Freedom Trail will take you to some of Boston’s most famous landmarks, including the Boston Massacre site, the Old State House and the Park Street Church.
3. The Skywalk Observatory at the Prudential Center: Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views from the 2nd tallest building in Boston.
4. Harvard University: Take the subway to Cambridge to visit America’s oldest university. Harvard was founded in 1636 and has educated some of the world’s most influential minds including, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Barack Obama.
5. Beacon Hill: Famous for its narrow, cobblestone and gas-lit streets the neighborhood is ranked as one of the most desirable and expensive areas of real-estate in the country. Make sure you get a photo of Acorn Street which is one of America’s most photographed streets.
6. Back Bay: Wander down the famous tree-line boulevard of Commonwealth Avenue while gazing at the beautiful architecture of the homes in the area. For shopping head to Boston’s most famous shopping strip, Newbury Street which runs parallel to Commonwealth Avenue. Newbury Street is also home to Boston’s best coffee shop at L’Aroma.
7. Fenway Park: Since 1912, Boston’s famous baseball team the Boston Red Sox’s have been playing at Fenway Park. You probably won’t be able to get a ticket to the game but you can soak up the atmosphere in the Bleacher Bar which is inside the ground or Game On which is just outside the park.
8. North End: Known as Little Italy the neighborhood is the oldest area in Boston and is full of bakeries, restaurants, bars and historical landmarks including the Old North Church.
9. South End: The neighborhood is home to Boston’s Theatre District. Head to Tremont Street for all the action, including theatres, bars, coffee shops and restaurants.
10. Boston Public Library: Located in Copley Square the Boston Library is the first publicly supported library in the world. Make sure you check-out the Bates Hall on the second floor an architectural masterpiece. Also in Copley Square is Trinity Church, which is a combination of Victorian, Gothic and French Romanesque architectural styles.

Back Bay

In addition to the sightseeing Boston is home to a great live music scene. The city also has strong connections with Ireland and as a result you’ll find dozens of Irish bars scattered throughout the city especially in the North-end. I hope you find my list useful and feel free to leave any recommendations for other places to visit in Boston. Also check-out my Boston photos on Flickr.