A Day In Boston

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Boston is a great day stop for any couple, family, or solo trip. Typically on my East Coast drives, I try and make a stop in Boston. Here are some of my favorite spots!

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

4 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109

No trip to Boston is complete without a trip to Faneuil Hall Marketplace. You’ll need to find parking in a local street spot or a garage but you’ll be set for the majority of the day here. There are TONS of shops, historical spots and food. Oh lordy, the food here is not to be missed. You can get buckets of tiny cookies, booze up to your eyeballs and donuts you’ll dream of for years. Make sure you head to the main atrium where there s typically a piano player at the public piano serenading the crowd!

Faneuil Hall Marketplace, often referred to as the "Cradle of Liberty," is a vibrant hub in the heart of Boston that seamlessly blends history and modern commerce. Originally built in 1742, this historic site has served as a marketplace and meeting hall for centuries, hosting famous speeches by Samuel Adams and other patriots. Today, it buzzes with energy as locals and tourists alike explore its eclectic mix of shops, eateries, and street performers. From savoring delicious food at Quincy Market to finding unique souvenirs, Faneuil Hall Marketplace offers a lively and quintessential Boston experience.

The Freedom Trail

Why go to Boston and skip out on the history? Walking the Freedom Trail in Boston is like stepping back in time to the very birth of American independence. This 2.5-mile, red-brick path weaves through the heart of the city, linking 16 historically significant sites that tell the story of the nation's founding. From the Massachusetts State House, with its iconic golden dome, to the Old North Church, where Paul Revere famously signaled the approach of British troops, each stop on the trail offers a glimpse into the past. You’ll visit the site of the Boston Massacre, stand in the shadow of the Bunker Hill Monument, and pause at the graves of notable figures like John Hancock and Samuel Adams in the Granary Burying Ground. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about America's Revolutionary roots, the Freedom Trail provides a captivating and educational journey through Boston's rich and storied past.

Boston is a city brimming with history, culture, and unique experiences beyond the iconic Freedom Trail and the bustling Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Here are some must-visit spots and activities to enjoy while exploring Beantown:

Dive into the Boston Public Library

Nestled in the heart of Copley Square, the Boston Public Library is an architectural and intellectual gem. Founded in 1848, it was the first large free municipal library in the United States. The library's stunning Renaissance Revival design features intricate murals by John Singer Sargent and an opulent reading room that rivals any in Europe. Spend a few hours wandering through the stacks, marveling at the architecture, or enjoying a peaceful moment in the charming courtyard, which offers a serene oasis in the midst of the city.

Explore the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

A visit to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum feels like stepping into a Venetian palazzo. This museum, housed in a building designed to mimic a 15th-century Venetian palace, showcases the eclectic collection of its founder, Isabella Stewart Gardner. The museum features masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Titian, alongside tapestries, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world. The lush, blooming courtyard at the center of the museum is a highlight, offering a tranquil spot to rest and reflect.

Wander through the Arnold Arboretum

Nature lovers should not miss the Arnold Arboretum, a vast, meticulously maintained park managed by Harvard University. Spanning 281 acres, the Arboretum is home to a diverse array of trees, shrubs, and plants from around the globe. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a vigorous hike, or a relaxing picnic. Each season brings a unique beauty, from the vibrant fall foliage to the blooming lilacs in spring. The Arboretum also hosts various educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.

Savor the North End

Boston’s North End, often referred to as Little Italy, is a food lover’s paradise. This historic neighborhood is packed with Italian restaurants, bakeries, and cafes. Wander through its narrow streets and indulge in some of the best Italian cuisine outside of Italy. Stop by Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry for a world-famous cannoli, enjoy a classic Italian meal at one of the many family-owned trattorias, and don’t forget to visit the Old North Church, a historic site where the famous “one if by land, two if by sea” signal lanterns were hung.

Immerse Yourself in the Seaport District

The Seaport District, once a neglected area of warehouses and shipping docks, has transformed into one of Boston’s most dynamic neighborhoods. It’s now a hub for innovation, dining, and entertainment. Visit the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) for cutting-edge exhibitions in a stunning building overlooking the harbor. Enjoy a meal at one of the many trendy restaurants, or take a stroll along the Harborwalk, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and Boston Harbor.

Boston's rich tapestry of attractions offers something for everyone. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, the city provides countless opportunities to explore and enjoy. So, next time you find yourself in Boston, venture beyond the well-trodden paths and discover these hidden gems.

Map thanks to Wanderlog, a vacation planner app on iOS and Android