Boston, as we know, is one of the best cities in the world. While it isn’t the biggest and most certainly not the warmest, Boston is home to everything from our nation’s history to the country’s top universities to some of our nation’s best sports teams. (Pat’s are going to the bowl AGAIN!!!) Since the city receives so many tourists each year, here are some of the best things to do in Boston for first-time visitors!
(All photos courtesy of Boston.com)
1. Faneuil Hall
Home to Quincy Market, street vendors, the Christmas Tree during the holidays, shopping, restaurants, and more. The perfect place for first-time tourists to explore.
2. A Sporting Event
Whether you're seeing a Pat's game, a Sox game, a Bruin's game, or a Celtic's game, Boston is home to some of the best sports in the nation. Sporting events are a must-do when visiting Boston. But if those big leagues aren't really your thing, there are always other athletic events such as the Head of the Charles race or the Boston Marathon that draw thousands each year.
3. The North End
Pasta, cannoli, tiramisu, MORE PASTA! If you're looking for the best Italian food in the city, the North End is the place to hit. Home to famous pastry shop Mike's Pastry and historical sites such as the Old North Church and Paul Revere Square.
4. Newbury Street
Newbury Street is home to fancy high-end shops and stores. This is a common tourist destination for the shopping, but even if you don't have much money to spend it's still worth a stroll! If you're going to spend money on one thing, I would personally recommend Georgetown Cupcake for a delicious treat!
5. Commons/ Public Gardens
The Commons and the Public Gardens are an absolute must-do for everyone from first-timers to locals. Take a ride on a swan boat, see the famous Make Way For Ducklings statue, sit on the bench from that one scene in Goodwill Hunting, visit Frog Pond for ice-skating in the winter, or just relax, stroll, and enjoy the green space.
6. Top of the Pru
While it is definitely overpriced, I highly recommend this for first-timers in Boston. Head to the top of the Prudential Tower (check out the Prudential Mall while you're at it) and you'll be able to see the city from almost every angle. If you really want a birds-eye view of Boston or a stunning Instagram pic, this is the place to go.
7. Museums and Aquariums
Museum of Fine Arts, Isabella Stuart Gardener Museum, Museum of Science, New England Aquarium. All of these are not only awesome destinations for any tourist, but also great activities if you're traveling with kids. The science museum is wicked kid-friendly and you could spend a week in there and still not see everything. The aquarium is also a great spot along the waterfront where it's also nice to walk around and see the sights there.
8. Beacon Hill
My favorite Boston neighborhood and easily the most Instagrammable place in the city. The brick apartments, the colorfully decorated front doors, the vines growing everywhere, and the old street lamps seem to be treasures of a time gone by. Beacon Hill is also home to Acorn Street, the most photogenic street in the country. This area is absolutely worth a stroll.
9. Chinatown
Another awesome food spot in the city is Chinatown, nestled beside the Theater District. From dumplings to dim sum, you can't go wrong with food here. It's also a cool place just to walk around and is a great tourist destination for first-timers.
10. Harvard Square
Harvard Square in Cambridge is an eclectic spot that's around Harvard University and also hosts numerous places to eat and explore. This is a definite tourist attraction, especially for those who may be Ivy League dreaming...
Boston is an awesome little city and I hope that these suggestions make your first trip the first of many!
