You Gotta Do This: Boston

This past weekend I was in Boston for the Women in Travel Summit. I only really had 1 full day to explore the city, and although 1 day is never any travellers ideal amount of time, we managed to squeeze quite a bit of great things into the day.

I didn’t get to see everything, but here are some of my personal highlights from the things I did get to venture to. Keep in mind, Boston is a very historical city, and since I’m not any type of history buff, there are several other things that may appeal to others more than me that are not listed on this list.

The Mapparium

Many people skip this due to the fact it’s located in the Mary Baker Eddy Library. Although I don’t recommend the actual museum itself, the Mapparium within the museum is worth a quick visit. Tours depart within the museum every 20 minutes, and for $6.00 (US) you can see this very cool three-story stained glass globe that was built in 1935. The only unfortunate part is you can’t snap your own pics, but as a wanderluster, I had to check this out.

Copley Square

A public square named after a famous painter, Copley Square is a great place to walk through. Check out the Old South Church built in 1873, or the Trinity Church. Both architecturally gorgeous and a piece of history. Also off this square, visit the Boston Public Library (photographed above) and roam through some of the amazing rooms within this library. Stop off to take a break or get some work done in their unexpectedly peaceful courtyard.

Boston Marathon Sites

The city of Boston are addicted to all things related to the Boston Marathon. Visit the finish line that is permanently painted on the street (and also the first thing that is shovelled off during major snow storms). Also worth visiting to pay your respects, is the two locations of the tragic 2013 bombings.

Top of the Hub

You can splurge for the overpriced drinks and food here, or you can just go up and grab a soda to check out the amazing panoramic view of Boston. I’m a sucker for pano-views of city skylines so this is worth a quick visit. Enter the Prudential Tower and let the front desk you’re headed to the Top of the Hub. Beware, your ears will pop in the elevator!

Newbury Street

I swooned over Newbury Street. All the cute boutique and high-end shops located within cute brownstone buildings and sprinkled between were adorable apartments that I’m sure will never be within my budget. Spend some time window shopping and stop for lunch or coffee at one of the cute cafes.

Boston Common

The starting point of the Freedom Trail! Despite the fact I didn’t continue along the Freedom Trail route, this park is a great place to stop for a break, picnic, or just a nice leisurely walk. This park has a lot of history behind it, and has been used for several things over the years. Since I’m not a history buff, I just enjoyed the little peaceful area within a busy city. Plus, I can’t imagine how much more beautiful this place would be outside of winter.

Acorn Street (Beacon Hill)

A photographers dream, Acorn Street is the cutest little street that looks like it was taken right out of a fairytale. Known as one of the most photographed streets in the USA, this cobblestone street is lined with the most adorable homes located in Beacon Hill, which is the most expensive and desirable neighbourhoods in Boston.

Eat Clam Chowder (and all the rest of their good food)

Boston is known for having a great food scene, and just like most major cities you can find just about anything. From delicious and cheap Asian cuisine in Chinatown, to fresh and delicious seafood. Don’t miss having a nice bowl of clam chowder, one of Boston’s specialties, it is said you can find the best bowl at Legal Seafoods which has been eaten by only the best, President Obama. If you have a sweet tooth, try some cannolis in the North End or some gourmet donuts at Kane’s Donuts. Can’t decide where to stop for lunch? Wander through Quincy Market, you’re bound to find something amongst all the food stalls. Also, don’t forget to make reservations! We struggled finding places that would take us for dinner on the weekend.

Shout-out to Kelsey of Lusting to Wander, a Boston local who was my personal tour guide while I visited.

Other Boston content:

• Packing for a Weekend in Boston
• Hostel Review: HI-Boston
• Why You Should Attend the Women in Travel Summit