With so much history wrapped up in one city, Boston is a must see. From the history of Samuel Adams and the American patriots to Sam Adams beer and the New England Patriots, there is something for everyone.
STATS
Population: 694,583 as of 2018
Name origin: Boston in Lincolnshire, England
Surrounded by: Multiple waterways including Charles River, Boston Harbor, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Fun fact: Contrary to popular belief, Paul Revere, whose house is still standing in the city’s North End, did not exclaim “The British are coming!” Instead, it is believed that he warned American rebels that the “regulars” were coming.
CITY
Five things you need to know about the city;
- Not everyone has an accent. In fact, there are only a small amount of people who have thick Boston accents.
- People do say wicked. But, no one says “Wicked Pissah.”
- Harvard Yard is a large grassy area, so there is no where to actually park a car.
- The North End is also known as “Little Italy” because of all of the amazingly authentic Italian restaurants. If you are hoping to buy gelato or a pastry, bring cash.
- Aside from feeling more like a town than a city, Boston is home to 35 colleges.
EAT
Recommended places to eat;
- Cheers– Home of the world-famous TV show.
- Antico Forno– Small, but authentic Italian restaurant.
- Top of the Hub– Steak house style with killer view of the city.
- Tatte Bakery– Some of the best pastries you will find in the states.
- Southern Kin– Southern comfort food with a twist.
- Friendly Toast– Quirky spot with great breakfast/brunch.
- Atlantic Fish Company– All of the New England greats.
- Citrus and Salt– Five words. Tacos and soft serve mimosas.
- Dirty Water Dough Co.– Great pizza, especially if you go a non-traditional pie.
DRINK
- DRINK– Swanky spot in the Seaport with artistic cocktails
- The Hawthorne– Sophisticated bar attached to Hotel Commonwealth
- Envoy- Roof top bar overlooking downtown Boston and the river
- Lansdowne Pub– Irish pub across the street from Fenway Park
- Bleacher Bar– Bar “inside” Fenway’s outfield
- Omni Parker House– Good cocktails and home to the original Boston cream pie
INDULGE
Sweet Spots: Boston
Call all of those with a sweet tooth! Here are the best dessert spots in Boston.
STAY
Hotels that were recommended to me;
- Hotel Commonwealth– Beautiful hotel, just across the bridge from Fenway Park
- Godfrey Hotel– Downtown financial district that is a hidden gem
- The Verb– quirky hotel a block away from Fenway
- Residence Inn Back Bay– Blocks away from Fenway and on the same block as a lot of restaurants and entertainment
WATCH
Fenway Park
Visiting Fenway in Boston for the first time? Here’s what you need to know before you go.
TD Garden- Bruins
Heading to the TD Garden for a Bruins game? This is your must know before you go!
TD Garden- Celtics
Looking to a see at the Boston Garden…aka TD Garden now. Here’s what you need to know!
TRANSPORTATION
When staying in the city, the best ways to get around are walking and the subway (the T). The first two years I lived in Boston, I didn’t own a car. It was only necessary on weekend trips, and even then I took the train (Commuter Rail of Amtrak) most places. You can easily get from the Logan International Airport (blue line) to anywhere in Boston proper. Check out this subway map for more details.
All recommendations are my own. Feel strongly about having something added? Let me know!
The Sports Passport 