Thinking of exploring Boston, Massachusetts? Boston is a small city that’s easily walkable with a booming restaurant scene, interesting history, and whether you’re a foodie, history buff, art museum obsessed, a shopaholic, or a combination of all of these, Boston is sure to be one of your new favorite cities. Boston truly has something for everyone! Continue reading to check out my Boston Travel Guide that shares where to stay, what to eat, and what to do while visiting the city of Boston!

Finally, I’m posting my Boston Travel Guide! I’ve received constant requests for my suggestions of the best things to do in Boston. I’ve been lucky enough to call Boston, Massachusetts home for the past four years. Truth be told, I never actually pictured myself living here, and truly never thought I would end up in this city. Thinking back, it all sounds so silly because it’s not like I’m from a town that’s far away (I’m from a small Maine town 3 1/2 hours away from Boston).

Boston is one of those cities that is totally do-able even if you’re not a “city person.” Because of its small size, you can cover a lot of ground and explore a lot of gems in just a long weekend. While much can be covered in 24 hours, something tells me that after 24 hours, you’ll wish you had more time!

In this Boston Travel Guide, I’ll be covering where you should stay, where you should eat, what to do and where to shop. As I find new spots I love, they’ll be added to this Boston Travel Guide, so think of this as a constant update of the best of what’s in Boston! Hope you enjoy! As always, if you have specific requests of things you’d like me to cover, I’d be happy to help! 🙂

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS TRAVEL GUIDE: A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO BOSTON

Acorn Street in Boston’s Beacon Hill

WHERE TO STAY

As you can tell, Boston has tons of hotel options! While there’s so many that are great, my biggest recommendation is to stay close to the areas you want to explore most. Boston is a small city that’s very walkable so it will be easy to explore much of the city if you’re staying at least a few days. The Back Bay area is a great area to stay in as it’s essentially in the middle of everything! It’s close to shopping, great restaurants. and you can easily explore other neighborhoods that are in walking distance. I usually recommend this area for young couples, foodies, and people that want to be able to explore a lot in a short amount of time. Back Bay is essentially in the “middle of it all,” which makes it a convenient area to stay in.

If you’ll be visiting Boston with kids, older family members, and/or wish to do more “touristy” things such as check out the Boston Aquarium, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, the North End, etc. you might be better off staying near the Financial District, the North End, or the Waterfront area. But as I said above, Boston is such a small city and can easily be explored no matter where you decide to stay!

I’ll be completely honest, I haven’t stayed at any of these hotels since living here (because I have no need for a hotel since it’s where I call home ha!), but the below hotels have great reviews and are in great locations. All of the below hotels have over a 4 star rating and are some of the best the city has to offer. Hopefully in the next year or so I’ll be able to stay at one of these hotels for a weekend so I can give you a FULL review of which I think are the best!

• The Ritz Carlton
• The Westin Copley Place
• InterContinental Boston
• Boston Harbor Hotel
• The Revere Hotel
• Ames Boston Hotel
• Lenox Hotel
• The Envoy Hotel
• Taj Boston
• The Colonnade Hotel
• Boston Park Plaza
• Mandarin Oriental Boston
• Loews Hotel Boston
• Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel
• W Boston

WHERE TO EAT

Delicious coffee + pastries from Tatte!

BRUNCH

• Tatte Bakery and Café
  My favorite casual spot for brunch in Boston. Tatte is a favorite among locals young and old and has locations all over the city. Completely Instagramable and has AMAZING pastries, egg sandwiches, avocado toast (and so much more)! Insider tip: You pronounce it Tatte like latte 😉 This is my number one recommendation of where you should get brunch! With so many locations all over the city, I feel like you’re bound to find one at least within a mile of wherever you’re staying.
• Frenchie
  Frenchie is of course French inspired cuisine, hence the name. Frenchie has a beautiful (although small) French inspired patio. Among locals, it’s probably best known for it’s frosé during the summer months. This is not a place I would take my boyfriend or guys, but really cute for a brunch with the girls. Love their Nutella Crepe! I don’t know what coffee they brew, but they also have great coffee.
• Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant
  Lincoln is located in Southie (aka South Boston, not the South End) and is a little bit of a party spot on the weekends. This is not necessarily a place I would take my parents, but is really fun if you’re with friends and are in the mood and making a day of drinking. Fun fact: The first time I went here it was PACKED and people were drinking like they were pre-gaming for a game or an event. I asked what was going on and my friend told me, “Ohhhh no, it’s just Sunday in Southie.” For some reason (maybe I’m just old now), Southie residents go hard on Sundays. So if that’s not your thing, maybe avoid! They also have brunch on weekdays (which is sure to be a bit calmer) and the weekend and have menu items like PB&J Donut Holes, Fruit Pebbles Pancakes, S’Mores Pancakes, and spiked ice coffee to name just a few that stand out!
• Audubon
  Audubon is located in Fenway and is a classic brunch spot. It’s actually one of mine and Geoff’s first dates back when I didn’t live in Boston yet and would visit on the weekends. They have a great patio in the back although I haven’t eaten outside yet!
• Little Donkey
  Little Donkey is one of my favorite restaurants in Boston for any meal (although to get specific, it’s actually located in Cambridge). You can read below for my dinner review. For brunch, some of my favorites include the Brioche French Toast, the Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich, and so many others. Food is fun, playful, and delicious here!
• Area Four
  Area Four has some of my FAVORITE pizza in Boston. It’s wood fired and if you’re a wood fired pizza lover, then you know, no other pizza can compare. Area Four has two locations in the city. One is located in Cambridge at Kendall Square (I usually go to this one because it’s easier for me to get to) and one in the South End. One of my favorite pizzas is the A4 (sausage with Mozarella and pickled banana peppers). But back to brunch! Their Sticky Bun and Sausage and Gravy are both heavenly.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Other Great Brunch Options:
• Milkweed
  (Went here for my birthday last year and it had the best Nutella + Strawberry French toast)
• Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar
• Citrus & Salt
  (see below to read more about it at dinner time; brunch is only on Sundays)
• Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar
  (brunch only available at Fort Point location)
• Burro Bar
  Get the Horchata Iced Coffee, the Jugo Tropical Juice, the Guacamole with Pork Belly, and the French Toast!
• Barcelona Wine Bar
  Only on the weekend, but amazing if you’re into Tapas. If you like Bloody Marys, then it’s worth it alone because of their Bloody Mary Bar!
• The Friendly Toast
• The Beehive
• Mother Juice
  Best smoothies + chia pudding
• Jugos 
  Best juices, acaí bowls, avocado toast

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Brown butter lobster roll from Eventide Fenway/ Eventide Fenway decor

The lobster roll from James Hook Lobster Company & brunch at Area Four

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LUNCH

• James Hook & Company
  One of my absolute favorite lobster rolls in the city and a spot I ALWAYS recommend to people visiting Boston. This is a casual, picnic table type spot but SO good. You order inside (it’s also a fish market) and then can take your food outside to a picnic table when it’s ready. FYI, they do not serve alcohol. You must go and then please report back!
• Saltie Girl
  Saltie Girl is a seafood restaurant that specializes in smoked fish, but there’s tons of other seafood options as well. It’s relatively new and located on a side street off of Newbury Street. Insider tip: Get the pineapple cocktail if you want to ‘wow’ your friends on the ‘gram! 😉 FYI, this spot is very tiny and is first come, first serve so it can be quite difficult to get in.
• Eventide Fenway
  Don’t have time to make it up to Portland, Maine? Hoping to get a taste of one of New England’s best lobster rolls? You’re in luck! Eventide is one of my favorite additions to Boston in the past year. If you’ve ever been lucky enough to sneak into Eventide Oyster Company in Portland (you can read my guide here), then chances are you’ve had their life changing (yes, I said life changing and I don’t put that lightly) Brown Butter Lobster Roll. It is that good. I have dreams about it. This spot is what I would consider fast-casual. You order at a counter, pick a spot, then your food gets delivered to your table. The Portland location will forever be my favorite because you get the full experience. Part of that experience is waiting a couple hours to get seated. Call me crazy but it makes you appreciate it even more. Eventide Fenway is a spot you must check out, but if you’re going to be going to Portland, just hit it up in Portland instead. I will say that the Boston location feels a bit more expensive because you’re not getting waiter/waitress service, but I’ll always keep coming back no matter what. They also have a new “cold,” more traditional lobster roll addition that I’m dying to try.
• Neptune Oyster Bar
  More amazing seafood! Do you sense a trend?! Neptune Oyster Bar located in the North End and when you walk by, you often see a line out the door. This is another spot that doesn’t take reservations, so it can be a bit difficult to get in. I recommend trying to get there right when they open!Other Options for Lunch:
• Explore Eataly and grab a few bites at the stands- or sit down at a table
• Row 34 – I always go for dinner over lunch, but know that they’re also open for lunch
• If you’re traveling to Boston for work and want something more “fast casual,” sweetgreen, Dig Inn, the Boston Public Market, and sandwich shops in the North End (Pauli’s or Monica’s) are great stops.
• Ward 8
  Great spot for a casual lunch near the North End.
• Cafeteria
  Cafeteria is a casual spot with a great outdoor patio and is located right on Newbury Street. This is a great spot to meet up with girlfriends for a quick lunch and/or a cocktail on the patio.

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Lolita Fort Point

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DINNER

• • Little Donkey
    Little Donkey is hands down one of Geoff’s favorite restaurants in the city (technically Cambridge) and I love it as well. I would go here every weekend if I had the chance, and I think Geoff goes with his work buddies like once a week. Little Donkey is a tapas style restaurant although not necessarily Spanish inspired. Some of my favorites on the menu are the Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich, the BLT lettuce wraps, the Spicy Thai Street Noodles, and for dessert, the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough that comes out on a beater. They also have a Churro Ice Cream Sandwich that I’m DYING to try. This spot is always busy no matter the day so make a reservation if you can!
  • Barcelona Wine Bar
    Barcelona is a favorite of mine and is another tapas restaurant with two locations in the city (one in the South End and one in Brookline). What many don’t know is that it’s actually a chain, however, it doesn’t have that “chain” vibe whatsoever. Amazing Spanish style tapas, great wine list, solid charcuterie options, and amazing bread. This place is ALWAYS busy so if you can, make a reservation. Geoff and I have been trying to go for like 3 weeks straight and there’s always an hour wait. Amazing service and a fun menu. The menu rotates seasonally, but a few of my favorites are the Mussels, the Spicy Eggplant Caponata, Truffled Bikini (a truffle grilled cheese), the Hanger Steak, Migas, and the Seared Scallops to name just a few! This is a fun spot to go with friends because you can order a ton of tapas and get to try a bit of everything.
    10/10 recommend the scallops at Citrus & Salt!
  • Citrus & Salt
    Citrus & Salt is a relatively new Mexican spot in Boston and it’s quickly become a favorite. Everything is Instagrammable here from the decor, to the food, to the walls in the bathroom (trust me 😉 ), to the names of the drinks on the menu. I’m constantly scheming ways to get here with my girlfriends. With margarita names like “I didn’t text you, tequila did,” “#unfollow,” “Smoke Show,” and “Take Your Pants Off,” you’re sure to have some laughs (and some great margaritas)! I love their scallops, guacamole, fish tacos, and their warm agave glazed blue cornmeal biscuits. You can also get DOLE WHIP here. Rum optional. LIKE WHAT?! Haven’t tried it yet. Who’s coming with me?!
  • Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar
    Lolita is one of my favorite restaurants in Boston! There are locations in Back Bay and the newest location is in Fort Point (near the Seaport area). Amazing margaritas and a great spot to take anyone. The inside is very dark, so if you don’t like dark vibes, this may not be your thing, although the food is so good. The outdoor patio/deck at the Fort Point location is awesome if you want a bit more light! They also have cotton candy on their dessert menu which is such a fun idea!
  • Toro
    Toro is a Boston classic that should not be missed. I must have a thing for tapas, because this is another Spanish style tapas restaurant. This is the kind of place you walk in and can immediately tell from the smells that it will be well worth it. Toro is very cozy and is a romantic spot to hit up in the winter months when it’s cold out, but it’s amazing all year round. Some of my favorites are the Octopus, the Smoked Eggplant, the Grilled Corn, the Garlic Shrimp, and the Hanger Steak to name just a few.
  • Coppa
    If charcuterie, wine, and Italian small plates are your thing, Coppa is your spot. Enough said! This place does everything well!

    James Hook & Company lobster rolls (do yourself a favor and get the large!)

• Row 34
  It’s REALLY hard to decide between Row 34 and Island Creek Oyster Bar (below). I’ve been to both and I’m not sure if I can decide. Both are delicious, so it just depends on what you can get into and which one you’re closer to. I think Row 34 is a tad bit more my style compared to ICOB, but you really can’t go wrong. Both are amazing spots for seafood!
• Island Creek Oyster Bar
  Island Creek Oyster Bar or you may see the locals refer to it as ICOB (lol), is one of my favorite seafood restaurants in the city. It’s located in the Fenway area and is a bit of a special occasion spot because it is on the expensive side. Despite it being a bit pricy, it’s so delicious. Some of my favorites are the lobster roll and the Lobster Roe Noodles (lobster and braised short rib over pappardelle). If you’re an oyster fan, this is your spot! They have a great raw bar.
• Burro Bar
  Burro Bar is the sister restaurant of The Painted Burro and has locations in Brookline and has locations in the South End and Brookline. Has super tasty margaritas and an out of this world Pork Belly Guacamole. Get the Pork Belly Guacamole, the Mexican Street Corn Esquites (it’s deconstructed on a plate so you don’t have to eat it off the cob and get it all through your teeth), the Mahi Mahi tacos, and the Pork Carnitas Tacos. The tacos come 1 per order so you can mix and match and try all of them if you wanted.
• Craigie on Main
  I’ve been to Craigie on Main twice now and it’s been amazing both times. Craigie on Main is definitely more of a restaurant you would go to for a special occasion. They have both a tasting menu where you can do multiple courses and a regular menu where you can order like you would at a typical restaurant. I’ve tried both and as far as a recommendation, it just depends on the dining experience you’re looking for.
• Guilia
  The BEST pasta I’ve ever had in my life. They make their pasta from scratch every morning. Get the bucatini and it will change your life! I also love that the portions aren’t massive here. Because it’s rich and homemade, it’s the perfect amount of food.
• Bartaco
  Bartaco is a new Mexican restaurant in Fort Point (Seaport area) that has amazing tacos and margaritas. It’s a small chain that’s in Hartford, CT and Nashville, TN to name a few spots and is the sister restaurant of Barcelona Wine Bar. Seriously one of the best margaritas I’ve ever had!
• More Dinner Options:
• Gaslight
• Puritan & Company
• Alden & Harlow

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DRINKS

• The Beehive
  The Beehive has a great patio, but it’s probably best known for live music downstairs. This is a fun, lively spot (although can often be a bit of an older crowd).
• Night Shift Brewery at Lovejoy Wharf
  This is a new spot to Boston (as of end of March 2019) that’s fun for after work beers or hanging out with a bunch of friends. Rumor is that they’re also opening up a beer garden just outside so I’ll make sure to update you guys as it gets warmer. This spot is near the TD Garden and the North End so it would be perfect if you’re in that area!
• The Landing
  A great spot for day drinking during the summer months. The Landing is a local favorite for the younger crowd. Located near the Boston waterfront and has fish bowls! It’s open seasonally.
• Ward 8
  Great spot to hit up if you’re going to be going to a concert or game at The Garden as it’s in the area. I love their Hang Ten cocktail which is a mixture of vodka, passion fruit, and honey over ice.
  
  
  
• Citrus & Salt
  This is my latest favorite spot to hit up with girlfriends. As I wrote above, everything from the decor to the drink names is Instagrammable here. It’s always packed so if you go around the time work gets out, be prepared to stand around the bar. If you want a table, I highly recommend making a reservation.
• Barcelona Wine Bar
  A classy spot to grab a glass of wine with a girlfriend, or a great place to meet for a date. One of my favorite spots in the city. They also have a great patio. Have yet to go to the South End location, but their Brookline location is a favorite.
• Terra at Eataly
  Terra is located at the top floor of Eataly and adorns gorgeous greenery. I always make note to hit up this spot in the winter when everything’s covered in snow and I need some green in my life. It’s great for a glass of wine and a charcuterie board. The best part about Terra is that it’s classic. Whether you’re with your parents, on a date, or with girlfriends, it’s the kind of place you can take anyone and be happy!
• The Hawthorne
  Fancy, special occasion spot near Fenway. This is a spot that can be a bit stuffy, but if you’re trying to impress someone with a fancy drink or if you’re celebrating a special occasion, this is a unique spot.
• Trillium Greenway Beer Garden
  A local favorite during the summer located on the Greenway – great spot to go if you’re looking to meet men! 😉 I went here so many times this summer and it never gets old. It’s dog friendly (yes, you can pet all of the doggos) and is a large space. At peak hours, you may have to wait in line to get in, but I’ve always found that the line moves very quickly. For those who aren’t beer drinkers, they also serve wine. Please note that since this is an outdoor spot, it’s seasonal.
  
  
  
• Cisco Brewers Beer Garden
  This is a new spot located in the Seaport across the street from Shake Shack. It’s seasonal (roughly Memorial Day to Labor Day so keep that in mind). Cisco is well known for their beer garden on Nantucket. In this location, they’ve teamed up with Loco and there’s a taco truck located in the beer garden. They have limited hours, so make sure to check their hours out  before going.Other Great Spots to Get Drinks:
• Lookout Rooftop at the Envoy Hotel
• Burro Bar
• Eastern Standard
• Yvonne’s
• Top of the Hub 
  Live for their blueberry mojitos in the summer months. Keep in mind they’re a bit expensive because you’re paying for the view, but this is a great spot for drinks (you’re allowed to walk over to the windows).
• Toro
• Earl’s Prudential Center
  Great in the summer months since there’s a retractable roof
• Bodega Canal
  Great margaritas and an awesome 90s playlist. They also have super Instagrammable neon signs throughout the restaurant.It’s located near the TD Garden and the North End.
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DESSERTS / MISC.

• Cookie Monstah
  The best ice cream cookie sandwiches! You can pick your type of cookie, pick your type of ice cream, and whether or not you want an ice cream cookie sandwich or just a cookie and ice cream. So good! During the summer, you can find them by the Carousel outside Faneuil Hall from 11-7. Insider tip: Monstah is a bit of a play on words here in Boston because Fenway Park (home of the Red Sox) has the Green Monster.
• Union Square Donuts
  A must when in Boston. They have locations in Somerville, Brookline, and the Boston Public Market. A few of my favs are the Sea Salt Bourbon Caramel (my all-time favorite), Sugar Raised, Belgian Dark Chocolate, Boston Cream, and Blueberry Jam (tastes like blueberry pie!).The cookie dough dessert at Little Donkey – served on a beater!
• Blackbird Doughnuts
  It’s hard for me to describe the difference between Union Square Donuts and Blackbird, but I will try! To me, Blackbird Doughnuts taste much less heavy, less sweet, and are all-around, a lighter donut. Insider tip: They serve donut ice cream sandwiches *OMG*
• Bova’s Bakery, Mike’s Pastry, Modern Pastry, or pretty much any Italian pastry shop in the North End. They’re all delicious and are a must when visiting Boston! Bova’s is open 24 hours – You MUST get a lobster tail and a cannoli while in the North End at the very least. Insider Tip: Most of these spots are cash only so plan accordingly!
• FoMu
  If anyone in your party has a dairy allergy/is vegan, then this should be your ice cream spot. But even if you don’t have a dairy allergy, you should go here because the ice cream is so good!

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WHAT TO DO IN BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

• Red Sox Game at Fenway Park
  No trip to Boston is complete without going to a Red Sox game! Fenway Park is the oldest baseball stadium in Major League Baseball. The entire area around Fenway Park is an experience you must have before and after a Red Sox game. A few of my favorite bars for before and after games are Baseball Tavern (multiple floors), Bleacher Bar (unique spot because when games are not in play, it has a direct view into center field at Fenway Park. They used to close the window when games were going on, but from what I’ve seen recently, it seems they keep it open all the time now! Might just depend on their mood – either way, a really great and unique spot.), Lansdowne Pub, Yard House, Loretta’s Last Call (country bar which is extra fun when they have live music nights).
  I haven’t done this yet, but Fenway Park also offers tours which I’ve heard are great time (find more info here)!
• Boston Public Library
  If you appreciate architecture and history, you have to stop by the Boston Public Library. The courtyard is one of the most stunning spaces in all of Boston in my opinion. A little lesser known is that there’s a restaurant called The Courtyard Restaurant. They have afternoon tea which is sure to be a fun time if you’re on a ladies trip! If you have men with you, maybe skip it unless they’re willing to hang!
• Visit some of Boston’s Museums – ICA, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, the Children’s Museum (if you have kids, otherwise skip it!),
• Newbury Street
  Newbury Street is one of the most iconic streets in Boston and are what many tourists think of when they think of Boston. Newbury Street is home to many restaurants and shops. Even if you don’t plan on shopping, it’s a fun area to walk around and people watch.
• Boston Public Garden / Boston Common
  Boston’s green space and the equivalent to Central Park but in Boston. It’s the country’s first public botanical garden. A great spot to take a stroll, have a picnic, and to hang out and enjoy the outdoors. The bridge and pond at the Boston Public Garden are so beautiful and are a great photo op! The swan boats are another iconic Boston tourist activity (seasonal)!
  
• Harpoon Brewery
  Stopping by Harpoon Brewery is always a good time. You can choose to do a brewery tour, go to the bar, or both. PSA they have really good pretzels!
• Explore Beacon Hill
  Beacon Hill is perhaps, the cutest neighborhood in all of Boston, and is home to Acorn Street; What many call, the cutest street in the United States (and for good reason). Beacon Hill has just about everything you could ever love when visiting a city – charm, history, beautiful architecture, and a quaintness that can’t be duplicated. When walking Beacon Hill, in many ways, you feel like you’re stepping back in time. With cobblestone streets (leave the heels at home for this part of your Boston tour, ladies), gorgeous flower boxes, and beautiful brick row homes, it will surely win you over if the rest of Boston hasn’t already. While there are many great restaurants and cute shops, it’s fun to walk around and check out the beautiful homes, even if you don’t plan on eating there. A couple noteworthy and Instagrammable Beacon Hill streets to check out: Acorn Street, Pinckney Street, Marlborough Street, and Myrtle Street to name just a few. Get out there and discover the other beautiful streets!
• Walk the Freedom Trail
  For you history buffs! The Freedom Trail is a collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks, a ship, and historic markers that tell the story of the American Revolution.
• Eataly
  Eataly is one of my favorite additions to Boston in the past year or so. If you’re familiar with New York City’s Eataly, this is the same thing! Eataly is a large Italian marketplace located in the Prudential Center mall. There are counters, restaurants, and you can also purchase fresh pasta, meats, cheeses, and sauces. They also host cooking classes and have events. I love stopping by to grab a slice of pizza and a cannoli!
• Explore the North End
  The North End is full of culture and is quintessential Boston. To me, it’s everything that reminds me of Boston in one neighborhood. Friendly locals (everyone will say hi to you), delicious food (considered the “Little Italy” area of Boston, but you’ll never hear it called that), ocean views (if you get to the outskirts of the neighborhood), and history.
• Boston Public Market
  The Boston Public Market is a new addition to Boston within the past couple years. What makes it special is that it’s the United States’ only year round, indoor, locally sustained public market. I work close to the Boston Public Market, so I’m constantly here. A few of my favorite vendors are Mother Juice (best smoothies + chia pudding), Union Square Donuts, Noodle Lab (best ramen), Red Apple Farm (BEST apple cider donuts that you can get all year round, not just in the fall!), Red’s Best (great lobster roll for the price), Bon Me, and George Howell Coffee (I actually don’t really care for their coffee, but they have a great almond milk iced latte). The Boston Public Market also hosts cooking classes.
  
  
  
  Art installation on the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway in Boston
• Brattle Book Shop
  An outdoor book shop located near Downtown Crossing. Super cute and very photogenic!
• Harvard Square
  Harvard Square is such a fun area to explore. While technically Harvard Square is Cambridge, not Boston, you still feel like you’re part of the city and it’s very easy to get to on public transportation. Explore the grounds of Harvard University, grab a cup of coffee at Blue Bottle (my favorite latte!), and get items for a picnic at Cardullo’s Gourmet.
• Duckboat Tour
  This is very touristy, so I’m sure my locals are surprised that I put this on here, but honestly, it’s so fun, and is something you must do once! It’s a great way to learn the history of Boston and a great way to see a lot of the city in just a couple short hours. If you have kids, they’ll freak out over this! (in a good way ha!)

One of my favorite little hidden gems in Boston – the Connah Store! Boston accent and all 😉

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WHERE TO SHOP IN BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

• Niche Urban Garden Supply
  You probably won’t be plant shopping while you’re visiting Boston, but if you love browsing shops and want to get cute pics for the ‘Gram, you’ll love this spot. All of the plants in my apartment are from here! See my Insta here, here & here to see what the interior of the shop in Cambridge looks like!
• LIT Boutique
  Forget something to wear “out-out” (you know what I mean 😉 ) when visiting Boston? This is your spot! LIT has a few different locations in the city and is one of my favorite boutiques in Boston. They sell the type of clothes that you’d find on Revolve. If I’m in a pinch and need an outfit for an event – I always go here!
• Follain
  Clean and non-toxic beauty items & a super cute store!
• Olives & Grace
  One of the best gift shops in Boston, in my opinion! Olives and Grace contains carefully curated selection of items. Every item found in the shop is made in the United States, and many of the products are local to Massachusetts. If you value specially handcrafted products you’ll love this shop![line]

Boston views! This is located near the Harborwalk and is overlooking the Seaport area.

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INSIDER TIPS / FAQ’S

Do I need a rental car when visiting Boston?
No! One of the best things about Boston is that it’s a very small city that’s easy to navigate. If you’re coming from the airport, you can either take a cab, take an Uber, or take the Silver Line train into the city to South Station. It’s actually free to South Station when leaving the airport! I will say, when I head home from the airport after traveling, I always take an Uber. To me, it’s the most convenient option (and I find that Ubers are less expensive than taxis when leaving the airport).

Where is the best area to stay in Boston?
Ahhh, the question I always get asked! It honestly depends on what you want to do, where you want to go, and what type of traveler you are. I almost always recommend Back Bay because it’s central to everything and you really can’t go wrong!

When is the best time to visit Boston?
Hands down September, October, and November! Boston is pure magic in the fall.  Every fall I find myself gushing over this city and how I feel so lucky to live here. Boston is very hot in the summer, and if you’re anything like me, when it’s hot, you just want to sit inside in front of the air conditioner. September is usually pretty warm in Boston, so if you want cooler temps where you could wear a light sweater and or jacket, I recommend October. November’s weather really depends on the year. Some Novembers are warmer, others have been cooler! Plus, in fall, you can load up on apple cider donuts while you’re here (although Insider tip: Red Apple Farm in the Boston Public Market sells them year round 😉 ).

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Have you ever visited Boston? If not- what’s the number one spot in Boston you’d check out first?! Let me know in the comments or send me a DM on Instagram! I also have another Boston Travel Guide post here that focuses on what to do for a special girls’ weekend to Boston!