Whether you're looking to shop, experience American history or eat delicious food, Boston has something for everyone! Although New York will always be #1 in my heart, Boston was a great spot to visit and I can't wait to visit New England again!
FRIDAY
Boston Duck Tour - The 80-minute tour will cruise you through the city's sights on land and on water. Our tour guide absolutely made the experience, and it was a great way to see the city! I recommend selecting the tour that departs from Prudential Tower, but tower parking can get pretty pricey ($40+), so arrive early to scout out a good spot. Tip: Purchase tickets for a tour that departs before 10 a.m. and get a discount!
Boston Public Library - One of the city's most iconic pieces of architecture, the Boston Public Library is a can't-miss spot. Join a free tour or wander around and take in the building yourself.
Lunch on Newbury Street - This gorgeous street spans eight blocks and boasts countless boutiques, dining and pop-up shops, including Deluca's Market, Georgetown Cupcakes, and Barbour, Sonsie Bistro.
Beacon Hill/Acorn Street - For a few shots of the picturesque cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill, head to Acorn Street for Instagram-worthy shots of the Federal-style rowhouses covered in ivy along the narrow gaslit streets. No matter what the season, it's the perfect place to experience Boston's historic beauty.
Harvard - My sneaky brother somehow joined a tour and got to see all the cool things one sees on a college tour. If you aren't as lucky, take advantage of this free Hahvahd walking tour. (And be sure to swing by the law school, so you can channel your inner Elle Woods) Cambridge parking isn't bad and the town is pretty walkable, so just grab a spot on the street! Tip: Don't miss the stained glass windows in Memorial Hall!
Buttermilk & Bourbon - Located in the Back Bay neighborhood, this delicious southern tapas restaurant is wonderful.
SATURDAY
Freedom Trail - Follow the Freedom Trail through the city and visit museums, historic landmarks, churches and more that tell the story of the American Revolution. Although 16 stops can seem daunting, you can pick and choose where you stop if you are doing a self-guided tour. Our favorite stops included the Boston Massacre Site, Faneuil Hall (Walk across the street to the Quincy Market food hall and order seafood mac & cheese from MMMac & Cheese for lunch), Paul Revere House, and the Old North Church (My family really enjoyed the behind-the-scenes tour of the bell tower and the crypt). Tip: Check out this site that offers free tours at stops along the Freedom Trail.
Dinner at Worden Hall - A place with something for everyone! We like the pizzas and sharables. I'm not a sangria fan, but the rest of my family couldn't stop talking about it.
SUNDAY
Charlestown Navy Yard - Take the 15-minute Charlestown Ferry from Rowes Wharf to the Charlestown Navy Yard and tour the U.S.S. Constitution and U.S.S Cassin Young. Both boats played a role in U.S. wars, and the Navy Yard is where boats were built, repaired, modernized, and resupplied for 174 years.
Sam Adams Brewery tour - Although it's a little ways out of the city, beer-drinkers will really enjoy the free hour-long brewery tour and a visit to the tap room.
Fenway Park tour - There's a few different tour options, so you can pick the one that best fits your schedule. Just be sure to buy tickets beforehand to save time. Tip: Grab a drink after the tour at Bleacher Bar!
Dinner at North End - Known as Boston's Little Italy neighborhood, there are so many options for a delicious Italian meal. Pop in for a pint at The Green Dragon Tavern, which was a favorite of Paul Revere.
ADDITIONAL RELEVANT TIPS
Since there were six of us, we did not use the public transit, but I've been told it's the way to go. Boston traffic is horrific.
If you do rent a car, take note that parking can get pretty pricey, so always be on the lookout for cheap spots. Metered parking is usually the best option and is free on National holidays!
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