Boston Guide

I created The SavvyBostonian in 2006 to share my curated tips and hidden gems uncovered in Boston. Although I’ve since moved to London, I did live in Boston for 15 years and travel back frequently. I hope you will enjoy my list of favorite hotels, restaurants and other must-see attractions.

Please note that all of the reviews are my own. I created this guide as a result of friends and family asking for my recommendations and would never endorse or post about a place unless I think it’s worth it!

View of the Boston skyline along the Charles River

Hotels

Back Bay

Charlesmark Hotel – Charming boutique hotel with free wifi and breakfast located smack in the middle of Boylston Street. The rooms are a touch on the smaller side, making this hotel perfect for solo travelers or couples.

Courtyard Marriott Boston Copley Square – Large rooms and an excellent location on Exeter Street at Boylston Street and adjacent to the Copley Place mall. Sometimes you can find good deals here compared to the more pricey Marriott Copley Square located one block away inside the mall, so it’s worth checking. Review from my stay linked here!

Hilton Back Bay – Massive rooms (get a corner King if you can!), a great gym, attached parking (for a fee) and free wifi for Hilton Honors members. Excellent proximity to Fenway Park, Newbury Street, the Prudential Center and Copley Place.

The Colonnade Hotel – This hotel has quickly become my favorite in Boston. It has large rooms which are filled with natural light, a great table and chair set-up for working remotely, plus in-room Kuerig and mini-fridge. Did I mention it has the ONLY rooftop pool in Boston and an excellent gym? Watch my video review on YouTube here for tour of the room and property!

Beacon Hill

XV Beacon – A lovely boutique hotel atop Beacon Hill that is adjacent to The State House, Boston Common and a short walk to Government Center/Faneuil Hall. I famously once saw Cameron Diaz hopping into a town car outside of this hotel and heard it’s one of her go-to’s in Boston. The adjoining restaurant, Mooo, is also divine.

The Liberty Hotel – The interior of this hotel is stunning – The Liberty Hotel was transformed from a jail to a luxury hotel and the results are just incredible. It’s a must-see even if you do not stay here. I arguably have helped to keep them in business with the amount of drinks and dinners I’ve had at this hotel! The atmosphere Thursday – Saturday night is lively, with the lobby bar and downstairs lounge, Alibi, packed. However, my family has stayed here and said the rooms were quiet, but it is something to keep in mind if traveling with a family / you don’t want the party on your doorstep ;). Read my full review here.

Cambridge

The Royal Sonesta – Usually I opt to stay in Back Bay or Beacon Hill, but I scored an incredible (free) hotel deal here on my credit card rewards points. And, I must say, I was beyond pleasantly surprised. The hotel is the same caliber of a Hilton/Marriott, but it is in Cambridge. However, it’s adjacent to the Cambridgeside Galleria mall, the Charles River walking/running path AND it’s a pretty easy walk over the bridge into Boston. So, don’t hate on Cambridge!

Seaport

The Seaport Hotel – I stayed here for a wedding and it was great. It’s a bit removed from Back Bay, etc., so if that’s where you want to spend your time, I would not recommend staying out in the Seaport. However, the Seaport neighborhood has actually become one of the hottest neighborhoods in Boston for eating/drinks, so if you want to be a stumbling distance home from great nightlife, this is a great option. It’s also walkable to the Boston Children’s Museum, The Institute of Contemporary Art, Harpoon Brewery and a number of boat cruises that leave from the area.

The STUNNING lobby of The Liberty Hotel

Restaurants, Bars & Lounges

Back Bay

Atlantic Fish Company – Hands down my favorite seafood restaurant in Boston. I love a crab cake appetizer and a grilled piece of salmon with the most decadent roasted sweet potatoes. It’s definitely a Boston classic and if you’re a seafood lover, I’d recommend it!

b.good burgers – Casual, inexpensive burger, salad and shake place with a passion for real food and quality ingredients. This was a frequent lunch or takeout dinner spot when I lived in Boston. The salads are really good too if you’re not a burger fan!

Bristol Lounge @ The Four Seasons Hotel – A dark and cozy space, despite offering ample seating options from high top tables to plush couches. Come for drinks, apps – it’s on the pricey side for Boston (it’s the Four Seasons hehe), but it’s always on my list whenever I’m back in town.

Buttermilk & Bourbon – I had the most epic dinner here with my dear friend C.C., filled with unique Southern inspired dishes like fried chicken, incredible buttermilk biscuits and cocktails to match. Don’t plan on this being a healthy meal, but it’s one that’s good for the soul.

City Bar at The Lenox Hotel – The place is Savvybostonian and B Loved Boston famous. I cannot count how many bellini’s we have consumed here. However, if that’s not your thing this cozy, chic space knows how to make many amazing cocktails. FYI it is small, so if you see an open table – snag it!

Clover Food Lab – Clover started as a food truck, parked on the MIT campus, and has risen to be a super-successful fast casual vegetarian restaurant concept. I dream of their chickpea fritter sandwich and always have one when I am in town. They also have locations now all over Boston! Great for a casual bite to eat or takeaway.

Deuxave – French-inspired restaurant with a beautiful interior that serves fantastic food. A bit more of a splurge, but lovely.

Douzo Sushi – Quite possibly my favorite sushi restaurant in Boston. It’s upscale but not terribly expensive and I like that I can go order a fun mixed drink and a few delicious rolls!

Flour Bakery + Cafe – Always a go-to for coffee, lunch, brunch, breakfast or an epic baked good. Pro tip: download their app for online ordering and other offers and thank me later!

Oak Long Bar + Kitchen – Boston’s famed Oak Room was renovated into a stunning space that mixes new and old. Imagine high ceilings, a gorgeous bar and lots of tables for small to medium groups. It’s one of my favorite spots of a drink and the food is also great!

Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar – More for the 20 and 30-something crowd, this vibrant restaurant doubles as a popular nighttime bar. With sexy dim lighting, amazing margaritas and lots of free flowing tequila cocktails, it’s easy to see why. I like to come here, order a bunch of small plates and a spicy cumber margarita to wash ’em down

Minibar at The Copley Square Hotel – Although its described as a restaurant and bar, I’ve really only come here for the drinks. It’s a cool space – very modern with a glowing white bar. In the warmer months, there is a small patio as well. It used to be one of our go-to weeknight or weekend drinks spots for drinks when I lived in Boston. Read my full review here.

Parish Cafe – A sizable patio and mouthwatering sandwiches plucked from Boston’s top chefs are incentive to frequent Parish Cafe on Boylston Street in the Back Bay. Go for lunch! Read my full review here.

Sonsie – A Boston institution – and for good reason. From a front section of Parisian-style cafe tables with an accompanying wall that completely opens in the summer months, to a formal dining room in the back and a dedicated bar, Sonsie is a great option any time of the day. Food is bistro style, with a mix of American, French, Italian accents. The pizzas & brunch are my favorites.

Sorellina – A delightful modern Italian restaurant in the Back Bay. It’s on the pricey side for Boston, but it’s always a restaurant I enjoy!

Stephanie’s on Newbury – Another Boston institution! Stephanie’s is known for its comfort food – generous portions to say the least. I always come here for the oversized salads. The outdoor patio in the summer is also a very coveted table to snag!

Sweetgreen – A newcomer to the Boston scene that now has multiple Back Bay locations. It’s a great spot for a casual, healthy salad. My personal favorite is guac greens salad!

The Capital Grille – While there are a few locations of this high-end steakhouse in Boston, my favorite is the one on the ground floor of Hynes Convention Center. I like to sit in the spacious bar area. The bar menu is great and there’s something about a big glass of wine with generous apps that just hits the spot!

The Salty Pig – I laughed out loud when I saw the google maps listing describe this restaurant as a, “Pork-focused bistro,” but it’s kind of true. If you like charcuterie and gourmet pizzas, this is a good bet!

Top of the Hub – A special occasion restaurant. With incredible views of Boston, Top of the Hub serves lunch, dinner and an epic weekend brunch. I once went for brunch and it’s a multi-course affair. But of course! It was absolutely amazing. As a special occasion restaurant, it’s on the pricey side, but it’s worth it. You can also just go for drinks at the bar, but fair warning, drinks seated in the lounge do come with table minimums, so just ask ahead of time.

Trident Booksellers & Cafe – Another Boston classic, albeit of the casual variety. Trident’s cafe is part of the bookstore and has free wi-fi, making it great anytime of the day. The entire menu is served all day and is a mix of breakfast, sandwiches, salads, comfort food classics and juices. Fret not, they also serve alcohol in the evenings!

UNI – Once tucked beneath the now-defunct Clio, UNI now commands a lot more space. It is a pricey but heavenly Asian street food and sashimi restaurant. They also have a cult following for their inexpensive late night Ramen on Friday and Saturday nights. Read my review of late-night ramen at UNI here.

Brunch at Trident

Beacon Hill & West End

Beacon Hill Hotel & Bistro – A classic bistro that is great for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I especially enjoy their weekend brunch, as not only is it delicious, but you can wander through Charles Street and into the Public Garden after.

Harvard Gardens – This is a hidden gem. What it lacks in ambiance, it makes up for in delicious brunch offerings. From the perfectly seasoned, parmesan-y brunch potatoes, to being able to order one red velvet pancake as a ‘brunch side dish,’ there’s so much to love about this low key restaurant.

Mooo – True to its name, Mooo is a steakhouse. However, in a city with many steakhouses, Mooo stands out for its chic atmosphere, sinfully good cuts and sides like truffle french fries. The welcome bread rolls are also out of this world. It’s on the pricey side, but it’s worth it.

Scampo – Located in one of my favorite hotels, The Liberty Hotel, Scampo is a lovely Italian restaurant from chef Lydia Shire. It’s beautiful inside, has a great bar for cocktails and wait for it…. a mozzarella bar! What more could one want?

Tatte Bakery & Cafe – A low key yet delightful bakery and cafe in the middle of iconic Charles Street. This is the kind of place where you say ‘yes’ to a sweet treat but they now have locations all over Boston. One of my favorite places for lunch!

The Upper Crust Pizza – Delicious pizza for eat-in or take out! Plus, this is the original Upper Crust location in Boston.

Harvard Gardens bacon & scrambled eggs with the best. breakfast. potatoes. everrrr.

Brookline

Genki Ya – Situated a handful of blocks away from the hustle and bustle of Coolidge Corner on Harvard Ave., Genki Ya is a tiny gem boasting great sushi. Read my full review here.

Cambridge

Harvard Square, Cambridge

Harvest – Fresh, healthy, seasonal cuisine. Always a delight!

Russell House Tavern – Upscale New American fare, craft cocktails & microbrews with a cozy atmosphere to match.

Central Square, Cambridge

Toscanini’s Ice Cream – This ice cream shop is frequently rated a ‘best of Boston.’ Want to know why? Well, you’ll just have to try it. I always love the tempting yet innovative mix of ice cream flavors!

Kendall Square, Cambridge

Area Four – Incredibly good pizzas that are apparently made from dough fermented for 30 hours. And while that may sound strange, trust me, it is actually amazing.

Evoo – A Kendall Square gem that describes itself as serving “eclectic American food.” The menu is a touch random, but in a good way, as I often see dishes that I cannot find elsewhere – and must try!

Tatte Bakery & Cafe – Yes, there are many locations around Boston and Cambridge, but I love brunching at this location. It’s just so beautiful inside – and as my review showcases, the brunch is lovely! Read my review here.

Downtown Crossing

Yvonne’s – Described as, “Boston’s most Instagrammable restaurant,” when it first opened in 2015. Yvonne’s is a chic, fun spot to hang out in. Think great cocktails, good food, never disappoints.

Fenway

Sweet Cheeks BBQ – A total cheat meal, in the best possible way. However, what’s great is the “trays” of BBQ come with your choice of hot and cold sides, and they do include healthy options, but let’s be real, I’m going for the mac ‘n’ cheese, brisket and a salad. There’s also a lot of vegetarian options too.

Financial District

Coming soon…

Seaport & Fort Point Channel

Committee – A fun hotspot for drinks in the Seaport. They also serve food, but I have ever tried it.

Drink – Such a cool spot! Drink is Barbara Lynch’s award-winning and appropriately named craft cocktail bar. The best part? No menus – it’s the kind of place where you tell the bartenders what you like and they’ll whip up something fabulous for you.

Empire – I must confess – I’m not the biggest fan of the food here, but it’s such a fun spot to go for drinks.

Envoy Hotel Rooftop – Ok, so it’s actually called “The Rooftop Lookout,” but none of my friends call it that, lol. Names aside, it’s quite possibly the best rooftop bar in Boston. It’s massive and boasts views of the Boston skyline. Also interesting? Because it’s such a coveted spot, the Envoy Hotel created a nice check-in system. Simply visit the check-in area for the rooftop bar located on the ground floor. If there’s a line, they will take your phone number and text you when you can head up. There’s also a nice open-air bar on the ground floor, or you can wander somewhere nearby. Way better than waiting in line!

Gather – As the name indicates, this is a great spot to Gather. The menu consists of delicious small plates with a mix of comfort food. However, my absolute faaaaavorite are the duck tacos – and snagging a seat on their outdoor patio on a warm night.

Harpoon Brewery And Beer Hall – This is a fun place to go grab drinks in the beer hall – and snack on the yummy pretzels. They also offer brewery tours which are equally fun for locals and tourists alike.

Legal Harborside – This is a really interesting place. Dubbed as the Legal Seafoods flagship in Boston, the venue has three different floors, each with a different vibe. This first floor is a casual dining room, the second floor is a formal dining room and the third floor is a fun rooftop bar that’s hard to beat in the summer months. Just go early – because the lines are terrible!

Papagayo – A fun Mexican restaurant in Fort Point Channel with awesome margaritas and yummy food.

Temazcal Tequila Cantina – An upscale Mexican restaurant in the Seaport. The margaritas are amazing and I like coming here for a few apps and drinks after work. The interior of this restaurant is also stunning and there is an open air patio area in the summer along the water.

The Barking Crab – Another Boston institution. This is a lively open-air seafood restaurant on the water know for….well, I’m gonna let you guess!

The Barking Crab

South End

Coppa – A lively South End restaurant with a local neighborhood-y vibe that serves a range of incredible pizza, pasta and Italian dishes.  In the warmer months, they have a great patio too. Read my full review here.

Gaslight Brasserie du Coin – A lovely French brasserie with dim lighting, delicious food and a nice buzz to it. Always a go to for brunch or a fun dinner out – small or large group.

Myers+Chang – A really cool South End spot by celebrity chef Joanne Chang. Described as a funky indie diner, the food is a delicious interpretation of Chinese, Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese.

Orinoco: A Latin Kitchen – I first discovered Orinoco when I lived in Brookline and now this lovely restaurant has three locations in the Boston-area, including the South End. I remember having one of the most amazing salmon dishes of my life here. The food is inspired by rustic, family-run eateries found along Venezuelan roadsides.

South End Buttery – Casually cool with amazing sandwiches and pastries, the South End Buttery is exactly the kind of place you want to live within walking distance of. Go for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, coffee. Anytime really! Read my full review here.

The Beehive – A fabulous bohemian space in the South End knows for its great food, cocktails and live jazz. It’s a great spot for drinks, dinner or brunch. Oh, and if you do go, order the Beehive Julep and thank me later! Read my full review of The Beehive here.

Toro – Arguably the best spot in Boston for Spanish tapas. However, be warned, even after being open for many years, they don’t take bookings and you need to be prepared to wait for a table. It’s worth the wait though!

The North End

Caffe Paradiso – A great Italian bakery cafe for coffee, pastries or in my case, a pistachio martini. Oh yes, you read that correctly. Dessert and a great cocktail in one. I’ll be back for sure!

Tony And Elaine’s – An old-school, no frills Italian restaurant in Boston’s North End. Imagine epic Italian comfort food with a red booths and red and white checkered tablecloths type vibe to match. Pro tip: they have a great outdoor patio in the warmer months and it’s slightly off the tourist track but I would still book during peak season.

Shrimp scampi at Tony & Elaine’s

Museums, Parks, Tours & Other Attractions

Back Bay

Boston Duck Tours – The Boston Duck Tour is a great way to see the iconic sights of Boston without walking everywhere. Also cool? They use replica World War II amphibious DUKW vehicles, which are quite a sight to see. However, be warned: they are a bit of cheesy fun, including quacking at people on the street. Embrace it though – when else is that encouraged!?

Boston Public Library – A historic library in a beautiful building. The Boston Public Library or “BPL,” was opened in 1848 by an act of the Great and General Court of Massachusetts. Fun fact: It was the first large free municipal library in the United States. Insider tip: You must wander through the inner courtyard – it’s divine.

Commonwealth Ave – An iconic street in the Back Bay surrounded by beautiful homes. It’s a divided highway type street with a series of little parks in the middle and makes for a lovely walk. Runs parallel to Newbury Street and Marlborough Street, both of which are also on my recommendation list.

Charles River Walking Path & Esplanade – The Charles River walking path runs for miles around Boston and Cambridge. I personally love the walk where you enter onto the path at Massachusetts Ave and Beacon Street, walk down past the Esplanade and cross over the Longfellow Bridge to the Cambridge side. Turn left onto the Cambridge side and walk to the Mass Ave Bridge. The views on the Cambridge side of the Boston skyline are really nice.

Eataly – Boston now has an Eataly! While it’s much smaller than the NYC one, it’s still fun to go and wander through. If you enjoy scoping out gourmet food items, you’ll enjoy this.

The Christian Science Plaza – Regardless of your interest in the Christian Science religion (the massive building is the church’s Global HQ, built in 1894 and expanded in 1906), the scenic plaza, surrounding reflecting pool and fountain in the summer make it a fun place for a stroll

Mapparium – A three-story-tall globe made of stained glass that is viewed from a 30-foot-long bridge through its interior located inside The Mary Baker Eddy Library.

Marlborough Street – Parallel to Newbury Street and Commonwealth Ave., I used to live on this charming little street. Stroll it and take in the beautiful range of Brownstone and amazing historic buildings.

Newbury Street – Such an iconic street and a must-visit in Boston. Go for a stroll, indulge in some shopping and when you’re all shopped out, snag a coffee or a cocktail at one of the street’s many restaurants or sidewalk cafes.

Public Garden – Established in 1837, The Public Garden was the first public botanical garden in America. Enjoy a stroll through this small but lovely park. If you’re with kids, you must see the Make Way for Duckings statue. In the warmer months, riding the swan boats with kids is also a fan favorite.

Prudential Center & Copley Place Mall – These malls are connected to one another via an indoor bridge that runs over Huntington Ave. Home to restaurants, coffee shops and many great stores, these malls were my go-to when I lived in Boston. Especially in the winter! Pro tip: Park below the Prudential Center and get your parking validated if you make a purchase to drastically reduce your parking fee. Double check of course that they’re still doing this before you go. Copley Place may also validate, but check first.

The Make Way For Ducklings Statue in the Boston Public Garden

Beacon Hill & West End

Acorn Street – It’s the most Instagrammed street in Boston – and for good reason. It’s a lovely little street paved with real cobblestones as they were in the 1800s. It means that they’re actually very hard to walk on, but it makes for a great photo opp.

Boston Athenæum – Founded in 1807, the Boston Athenæum is one of the oldest independent libraries in the United States. It’s charming inside and worth a visit if you have time.

Boston Common – The Boston Common dates back to 1634, earning it the honor as America’s oldest park. It’s not as charming as the Boston Public Garden, but top spots to check out include the Frog Pond, which has ice skating in the winter and pools for kids in the summer. The portion of the park by

Charles Street – A charming street filled with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants. In comparison to other shopping areas in Boston, it’s mostly boutiques here. The architure is also more historic and charming, making it worth a visit.

Freedom Trail – The Freedom Trail starts on the Boston Common and goes for 2.5 miles from Boston to Charlestown through 16 historical sites. If you want to learn about Boston’s history and are willing to go the distance, this is a wonderful way to do so.

Massachusetts State House – Completed in 1798, it’s hard to miss this iconic building with its impressive gold dome as you pass through Boston. You can tour the State House – tours run 30-45 minutes on weekdays year-round from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm, and are free of charge.

Climb the hills and wander all the lovely streets of Beacon Hill – they’re worth it!

Downtown Crossing / Financial District

Christopher Columbus Park – A cute little park on the edge of the North End / Financial District. I wouldn’t necessarily go out of your way to come here, but I always enjoy a stroll through by the water if I’m in the area!

Faneuil Hall – To be honest, I mostly avoid Faneuil Hall because it’s jam-packed with tourists…..however, as a visitor to Boston, it’s a place you would, of course, go to. Faneuil Hall dates back to 1742 when our nation’s fathers proclaimed it, “The Cradle of Liberty.” Today, it’s home to more than 70 shops and restaurants, plus always has tons of street performers.

Granary Burying Ground – Boston’s third-oldest cemetery, founded in 1660. It is the final resting place of Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Robert Treat Paine.

King’s Chapel & Burial Ground – Boston’s oldest cemetery and it’s amazing how it is literally in the center of the city. You’ll definitely pass by it – it’s a stop on the Freedom Trail – and one to check out.

New England Aquarium – If you’re with kids, this is a great place to visit. Also, if you don’t want to go in, they have seals in tanks just outside of the entrance and you can watch them swim, eat, hang out. Always fun to do!

Old South Meeting House – A historic church that was a meeting place during the time of the Boston Tea Party. It’s where Samuel Adams is believed to have delivered a code signal during a speech to give the green light for the Boston Tea Party.

Post Office Square – Another spot that’s not really worth going out of your way for, but I am calling it out as it’s a charming little park with a beautiful trellised walkway (for you Instagrammers out there!). Locals who work in the Financial District hang out there and eat lunch. It is worth noting that it is of historical significance as well – click on the link to check it out.

Rose Kennedy Greenway – A lovely little series of urban parks that starts in the North End and runs through the Financial District to Chinatown. The part of the park by the North End has fountains that little kids love to play in during the summer, while other parts see pop up events. The section in the Financial District by South Station has tons of food trucks at lunchtime in the warmer months.

Fenway

Back Bay Fens – A stretch of parks that run from the edge of the Back Bay through the Fenway neighborhood. I wouldn’t go out of your way to see this stretch of parks, but it can make for a nice way to walk to or between the Museum of Fine Arts and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Fenway Park – Whether you snag a ticket to a Red Sox game, a summertime concert or simply take a tour here, you must see this historic stadium. Read my full review of a Fenway Park tour here.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum – Such a gem of a museum! Isabella Stewart Gardner was an amazing woman, a wealthy bohemian with a passion for art. She traveled the world and dedicated her life to investing in art, eventually translating her incredible collection into this museum. The museum itself is stunning, with a magical inner courtyard, as is the art.

Museum of Fine Arts – Called the MFA by locals, the Museum of Fine Arts actually dates back to 1870. Today, the MFA is home to over 500,000 works of art. The museum has also undergone a significant renovation and it’s stunning inside. If you love art and have time, it’s always a good place to visit.

The stunning inner courtyard of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

North End

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground – A historic cemetery in the North End where 10,000 people were buried during the 17th and 18th century. It’s a spot on the Freedom Trail and the burial site of a number of prominent people from that time period.

Hanover Street & Salem Street – Two of the “main” streets in the North End to visit. They’re filled with restaurants, shops, etc., but if I am honest, the North End is another great neighborhood to wander. I wouldn’t recommend doing this at night solo (especially woman), but during the day it’s fun explore a bit and enjoy this historic neighborhood. Bonus: If you’re so inclined, pop into Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry and decide which you like better. It’s a frequent debate amongst Bostonians which is better :).

Paul Revere House – The home of Boston’s famous resident during The American Revolution. It’s now a historical landmark and museum. If you’re interested in Boston history, it makes for a great place to visit.

Improv Asylum – If you’re in the market for a fun comedy show, this is always a good spot. But, fair warning, you may just get pulled into the act!

Rose Kennedy Greenway – A lovely little series of urban parks that starts in the North End and runs through the Financial District to Chinatown. The part of the park by the North End has fountains that little kids love to play in during the summer, while other parts see pop up events. The section in the Financial District by South Station has tons of food trucks at lunchtime in the warmer months.

The Old North Church – Founded in 1723, The Old North Church is Boston’s oldest church and also arguably the most famous one in the city. The Old North Church become famous during Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, where the church was used for the “One if by land, two if by sea” signal is said to have been sent.

Seaport & Fort Point Channel

Boston Children’s Museum – A wonderful children’s museum worth visiting if you have little ones.

Boston Tea Party Museum – A fairly new museum in Boston, it’s perched along a bridge between the financial district and Fort Point Channel. The museum teaches you all about the Boston Tea Party, an iconic event in Boston’s history.

Harborwalk – The Boston Harborwalk actually spans 43-miles, but the stretch from Fan Pier over to the Institute of Contemporary Art is a nice one with lovely views of the water.

Harpoon Brewery – You must be 21+ for this one! Harpoon Brewery makes fantastic beers in Boston and Vermont. In Boston, you can visit their brewery in the Seaport. Take a guided tour or simply enjoy the classic beer hall for a tasting. They don’t really do food, with the exception of their delicious pretzels.

Institute of Contemporary Art – A fantastic modern art museum in Boston. They also do a series of Thursday nights at the museum free, so check out their calendar!

View of the Boston Skyline from Fan Pier

South End

The South End (not to be confused with South Boston or “Southie”) is another great neighborhood to take a stroll through. There are many streets with beautiful brownstones to enjoy.

SoWa Open Market – A cute little market with local artisans, bakers, farmers, craftspeople, and more that is open in a parking lot in the South End on Sundays from 10am-4pm. Worth checking out if you have time!

Cambridge

Harvard Square, Cambridge

Harvard Square is one of those neighborhoods that’s perfect to wander through. It’s not very large in size, so spend time going in and out of boutiques. Otherwise, the must-visit is the Harvard University campus. Not only is it one of the world’s top universities, but it has a beautiful campus. Swing by the bookstore after, pick up a t-shirt and pretend like you went there, if only for a little bit.

Central Square, Cambridge

There’s not a ton tourist-y things to do in Central Square. However, if you have time, take a wander through MIT’s campus!

Kendall Square, Cambridge

Museum of Science – Fun for kids of all ages!

Have questions? Want to see an attraction featured or reviewed here? E-mail me at savvybostonian@gmail.com