Written & Photographs by Samantha Diaz
Boston is a dream destination for history buffs, culture vultures, and foodies. It has a great foodie scene, wide-open green spaces, quaint neighborhoods, and first-rate museums. Visiting Boston offers all the benefits of a big metropolis without the intensity and frenetic pace of New York. The subway will take you wherever you need to go; just be sure to pack comfortable shoes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try walking instead of taking public transportation: with its compact layout and sidewalks on both sides of every street, Boston is perfect for pedestrians. In this Boston travel guide, I’ll be covering what to do. I’ll also highlight some of my city's favorite spots so you can enjoy all Boston offers!
Walk Along the Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking route through downtown Boston, Massachusetts. The path leads you to past attractions relating to the city's founding, as well as the events of the Revolutionary War. There are markers and signs along the way to help you follow the trail. The Freedom Trail begins in Boston Common, America's oldest public park, and ends at Bunker Hill Monument. You can pick up a map and guide at Faneuil Hall or the Boston Common Visitor Center at 139 Tremont Street. Admission is charged for some sites along the trail, but others are free.
Along the way, you’ll visit 16 historic Boston landmarks:
Boston Common
Massachusetts State House
Park Street Church
Granary Burying Ground
King’s Chapel Burying Ground
Benjamin Franklin statue
Old Corner Bookstore
Old South Meeting House
Old State House
Site of the Boston Massacre
Faneuil Hall
Paul Revere House
Old North Church
Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
USS Constitution
Bunker Hill Monument
Explore the North End
The North End is full of culture and 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), ocean views (if you get to the outskirts of the neighborhood), and history are all reasons why I love the North End so much.
Explore Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill is one of the most charming areas in Boston, and Acorn Street might be the cutest street in the entire United States. You’ll find everything you love about a city on Beacon Hill—charm, history, beautiful architecture—all in a quaint neighborhood. When you visit Beacon Hill, you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time with its cobblestone streets, gorgeous flower boxes, and beautiful brick-row homes. Although there are many great restaurants and cute shops in Beacon Hill, we recommend walking around the neighborhood to check out its beautiful homes. Acorn Street, Pinckney Street, Marlborough Street, and Myrtle Street are a few of our favorite streets to walk down. We think you'll discover that Beacon Hill has much more to offer than just food and shopping.
I love Boston; there's so much to see and do here! I will definitely return and explore even more spots!
Visit more posts from Samantha's 'Travel & Brew' blog at www.travelandbrew.com
