Boston/Downtown

Boston's nickname as the "Hub" makes more sense once you visit downtown. The population balloons during the day as hundreds of thousands of office workers and tourists descend on the area. The Massachusetts State Government maintains its seat in nearby Beacon Hill, but most state employees work out of office buildings around Government Center, where City Hall is also located. Downtown is home to major shopping areas, many of Boston's most famous historic sites, and plenty of major private employers. The financial and legal industry in the city is still largely based here, although some have decamped to nicer and newer space in the Seaport.
The area now known as Downtown used to comprise most of the City of Boston, aside from the North End and Beacon Hill. Places like Charlestown and Dorchester were originally separate towns. Boston was founded in 1628 on a head of land sticking out into the harbor, connected to the mainland only by a thin strip of land which is today called Washington St. Other Boston neighborhoods were created through filling in marshland or annexing neighboring towns. Boston was a hotbed of the American Revolution, being home to now famous patriots like John Adams, Sam Adams, and John Hancock. Important pre-revolutionary events like the Boston Tea Party and Boston Massacre happened in what is now Downtown.
After the war, Boston continued to be an important seaport and trading center. Until the 1860s and 70s, Downtown was pretty much all there was to the city. During this period, it expanded dramatically and outgrew its old borders, but Downtown remained the hub, although it is one of the northernmost parts of the city. Much of Downtown burned down in the Great Fire of 1872, tragically taking some of the city's older buildings with it. This area is now the main financial district and is mostly modern skyscrapers. In the 1950s the Central Artery, an elevated highway, was built through downtown, cutting off the waterfront from the rest of downtown. At a cost of $15 billion, it was buried during the "Big Dig" in the 1990s and early 2000s and Downtown is now reunited with its waterfront.

Chinatown

Chinatown was built on a landfill, though this is no longer apparent; what now identifies this area is the truly mixed uses of land. Residential properties co-exist with family owned and operated businesses and local institutions.

Bay Village

One of the smallest neighborhoods in Boston, about 6 square blocks around Piedmont Street east of Arlington. After the original mud flats were drained in the early 1800s, many craftsmen involved in the construction of Beacon Hill's premier residences built their own modest but well-crafted houses here. Consequently, there are many architectural similarities between these two neighborhoods. It wasn't until the Prohibition years (1920s) that Bay Village got its bohemian ambiance. It has now become the center for Boston's gay community.

Leather District

Bounded by Chinatown to the west, South Station to the east, the Financial District to the north, and Kneeland Street to the south, this neighborhood was the home of leather production and sales during the 19th century. It consists of a series of buildings constructed in the Classic Revival and Romanesque styles, largely between 1880 and 1920. Visually similar to SoHo, New York, it has been used for numerous films and advertisements as a stand-in location. The Leather District is a mixed use community, home to loft apartments, ramen joints, and French bistros. The As South Station, a major bus, commuter rail, train, and subway terminal, defines its eastern boundary, it is often visited by people entering or exiting the city.

By foot

Walking is by far the preferred way to get around this area, as most everything you'd want to see is relatively packed in together. The train stations are usually only separated by a few minutes walk, and you'll find it's often faster to just walk directly to your destination without heading underground. Walking also affords the opportunity to explore the variety of urban parks, architecture, and quirky street patterns that have gracefully developed over time. Walking around downtown is in many ways what visitors come here to experience in the first place.

By public transit

Downtown is easily the best connected area in the city. Boston operates on a "hub and spoke" philosophy, and this is clearly the hub for a variety of modes of transport. Amtrak makes two stops here, the massive South Station offers connections to NYC, Chicago, and beyond. Also featuring rail connections is North Station, serving coastal points within Maine and New Hampshire. See Boston#By train for details. These two stations are also the termini for all Commuter Rail travel within the region, see Boston#By commuter rail for more detailed descriptions.

By subway

The Green line is perhaps the most helpful for visitors, running close to much of the Freedom Trail and the North End. Stops include North Station, Haymarket, Government Center, Park Street, and Boylston. The Orange line is a great alternative, because it closely parallels the Green line while downtown. Stations include: North Station, Haymarket, State, Downtown Crossing, Chinatown, and Tufts Medical Center. The Red line is also quite popular, if you're near it, it can be great for getting across town. Red stops include: Charles/MGH, Park Street, Downtown Crossing and South Station along the way. The Blue line is good for getting to the Aquarium, but it is primarily used by residents and not tourists. This line begins at tiny Bowdoin, then visits Government Center, State, and Aquarium stations before diving under the harbor.
Almost every station downtown serves more than one line, and transferring between them is quick and painless. Walking between the Green, Orange, and Red lines is pretty easy, an underground walkway connects Park Street and Downtown Crossing stations. Much to the displeasure of Bostonians, there is no direct connection between North and South Station. It can take 20-30 minutes to transfer between the two, so take that (along with your luggage) into account. You'll also find the Blue and Red lines are similarly disconnected, and will need to use the Orange or Green lines to transfer between them.

By bus

There are a few options for buses downtown, but the narrow and congested streets render this option "not great". The Silver line SL4 and SL5 routes are the most popular as far as buses go. Think of the Silver line as a handy way to reach downtown, but it's not great for moving around within the area. Both lines visit Tufts Medical Center and Chinatown, while the SL4 continues on to South Station and the SL5 loops around Downtown Crossing.
The routes #4, #7, and #11 all serve the area, but don't run frequently and have to compete with everyone else for what little space is available. Haymarket is the main terminal for local busses downtown. The #92, #93, and #111 routes head into Charlestown and then keep going into Somerville and Chelsea. Another handful of busses: #424, #426, #428, #434, and #450, all leave Haymarket bound for various points along the North Shore. Still more buses depart from South Station; the #448, #449, and #459 all roll towards either the Airport or other destinations along the North Shore.

By boat

There are two main wharves that provide public transport by sea to key locations around town. Long Wharf is the most popular; offering MBTA connections to the Charlestown Navy Yard, Logan Airport, Hingham and Hull, as well as a seasonal ferry to Salem. Boston Harbor Cruises offers other seasonal ferries, decamping to the Boston Harbor Islands, or heading out to Provincetown. They also provide harbor cruises, whale watch tours, and others that all depart from Long Wharf.
Rowes Wharf offers a few additional options. There is another ferry from here to Hingham, and a seasonal one to Winthrop. There are also more private boats and other pleasure craft available for rent that dock here.
Water taxis are plentiful all along the waterfront, servicing 28 different points between downtown, South Boston, East Boston, and Charlestown.

By car

You'll find a car to be more liability than boon here. Do not drive downtown unless you know exactly what you're doing, where you're going, and how you're parking. Traffic is horrendous, parking barely exists, and the streets aren't even designed for cars in the first place. There are a few garages in the area, most scattered between Government Center and the Aquarium. Garaged parking is expensive, it can be around $12-15/hour and $40-50/day (when it's available). Those figures could double or even triple in peak season or during special events.

Architecture

• Boston City Hall

  phone: +1 617 635-4500
  address: 1 City Hall Square
  This area used to be known as Scollay Square and was demolished in the 1960s to build a new city hall for the city of Boston. The Hall is a hulking Brutalist architecture and an expansive brick plaza, contrasting sharply with the Fanueil Hall facade directly behind it. Some people love the bold choice of color, form and materials. Everyone else hates it, and considers it to be an eyesore of the first degree. The windswept plaza was mostly deserted until the city began holding seasonal events, festivals, and sports viewings here. Life is slowly creeping back to the center after Government Center station was rebuilt, and plans to make the area more pedestrian friendly are ongoing.

• New England Aquarium

  phone: +1 617 973-5200
  address: Central Wharf
  Home of what was until recently the world's largest fish tank, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the New England Aquarium offers a riveting museum experience which showcases an incredible variety of fish and other types of animals. After recent expansions, it now also has a humongous IMAX theatre, whale-watching tours operating from its pier, and a marine mammal arena out back. It also is known for its penguins, which are a fascinating experience even on their own. It's well worth a visit.

• Old City Hall

  phone: +1 617 523-8678
  address: 45 School St
  Old City Hall, unlike the current city hall, is undeniably beautiful. This Second Empire style building was built in 1865 and served as Boston's City Hall until 1969. It has since been converted to office space and also houses an expensive steak house. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and is a much touted example of adaptive re-use in architecture.

Colonial

• Faneuil HallIt was built in 1742 as a market building adjacent to a busy waterfront dock. Town meetings held here between 1764 and 1774 heard Samuel Adams and others lead cries of protest against the imposition of taxes on the American colonies. The building was enlarged in 1806. Social justice leaders like Frederick Douglass, William Lloyd Garrison, and Lucy Stone brought their struggles for freedom here in the 19th century. A museum and gift shop dominate the first floor. Most people pronounce it with two syllables like "FAN-yull", while a minority prefer the three syllable "fan-YOU-ull" pronunciation. You'll be fine as long as you don't say anything crazy like "fa-KNEW-lee".

• King's Chapel

  phone: +1 617 523-1749
  address: 64 Beacon St
  Founded as an Anglican congregation in 1686. The first church burned down, of course, and today's building of stone dates from 1754. The churches' bell was forged in England and hung high in the belfry during 1772. Cracked in 1814, it was recast by Paul Revere and would be the largest—and final—bell ever to make its way out of his foundry. The bell is still rung during church services today.

• Old South Meeting House

  phone: +1 617 482-6439
  address: 310 Washington St
  Built in 1729, this church has been an important meeting place for centuries. Famous today due to events during 1773, when colonists used the space to organize what would become known as the Boston Tea Party. Almost destroyed by the fire of 1872, Bostonians saved the structure and it's now an important stop on the Freedom Trail.

• Old State House

  phone: +1 617 720-1713
  address: 206 Washington St
  Construction financed by the King of England in 1713, this was the longtime seat of government in Boston, and remains its oldest public building. The Boston Massacre took place just in front of the State House, and in 1776 the Declaration of Independence was first read to Bostonians from the balcony. Saved from demolition in 1882, the building has housed numerous tenants and seen many faithful restorations over the years. For example the lion and unicorn statues—symbols of the monarchy—were replaced after being burned during a period of revolutionary zeal in 1776. Every 4th of July, the Declaration of Independence is read aloud once more from the same balcony.

Landmarks

• Boston Stone

  address: 8 Marshall St
  Imported from England in the 17th century by a painter, today you can see the Boston Stone embedded in the foundation of a building in the Historic Blackstone District. No one really knows its exact function, or why it was placed there. The current theory is that it's 18th-century advertising for the shops and stores along this historic street; or a sort of London Stone copycat.

• Chinatown Gate

  address: Beach St
  Found at the corner of Beach Street and Surface Road this is the most visible symbol of Chinatown for tourists. The urban plaza on the east side of the gate was built as part of the Big Dig highway project.

• Governor’s Alley

  address: Bosworth St
  Walk up these oddly placed steps just as British Royal Governors would have done 300 years ago. At one time they led up to a sumptuous governor's mansion, although George Washington put a stop to that in 1775. Today you'll find the Marliave's al fresco dining patio awaiting you in summer, and an unsightly dumpster or two when it's cold. Check the plaques for more information.

• Irish Famine Memorial

  address: Washington and School St
  Two statues commemorate the 1845 Irish Famine, depicting a starving Irish family on their knees, and a well fed family walking away. The natural rise of the land here is used to great effect by the sculptor. As you walk up or down from the statues, it's easy to empathize with the predicament of either family. The physical pain of starvation and the emotional pain of leaving loved ones behind are each masterfully rendered in bronze.

• New England Holocaust Memorial

  phone: +1 617 457-8755
  address: 98 Union St
  A glass memorial built in a small park near Fanueil Hall, inspired by survivors who resettled in Boston.

• Spring LaneGet off the Freedom Trail for a second and spend a minute reading plaques in this narrow alley. Beneath your feet once flowed clean spring water used by the residents of Boston for hundreds of years. The lane runs parallel to Water Street so you know it's for real. Several other notes relating to Boston's history adorn adjacent building walls, if you're interested. Use caution during the evening, however, as the homeless sometimes use this semi-protected area as a campsite.

Parks

• Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

  phone: +1 781 639-6002
  Check out the cool trellis and free Wi-Fi.

• King's Chapel Burying Ground

  phone: +1 617 523-1749
  address: 58 Tremont St
  Predating King's Chapel, this cemetery was founded in 1630, and is the oldest in Boston. Notable figures buried here include: John Winthrop, first governor of Massachusetts, Mary Chilton the first European woman to step ashore in New England, and Elizabeth Pain, whose headstone supposedly inspired the book The Scarlet Letter.

• Post Office Square

  phone: +1 617 423-1500
  Post Office Square is a tranquil oasis in the middle of Downtown. In the late 1980s, a decrepit parking garage was torn down and a public park was created on the site, funded by a privately operated parking garage underground. A hub of activity during the day, office workers take their lunch beneath the trees, while yoga classes and other activities make use of the open greenspace. The square is not very crowded in the evening and on weekends, but you may run into a wedding photography shoot.

• Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway

  phone: +1 617 292-0020
  The Greenway is a public park running along the route of the former Central Artery, the road that was buried during the big dig. Instead of developing the land freed up by the new tunnel, the city turned it into a public park running in an arc around Downtown. There are numerous art installations and seating areas, fountains for kids to play in, and even a carousel.

Quincy Market

Quincy Market

Dating from 1825, Quincy Market was built during a growing economy as a way to increase the number of shops and markets available to Bostonians. The market space available in Faneuil Hall just wasn't enough, so the small pier behind the building was filled in to create land for a larger new market. Quincy Market has been used as a marketplace for produce and foodstuffs throughout its life, and was beautifully restored in the 1970s. The original hall is today a glorified food court, while the North Market and South Market buildings hold a variety of little shops. Replete with performance artists, this is clearly the center of tourist activity in the city. Even if it's not your cup of tea, Quincy Market is still worth a visit just to soak up the history.
The central original brick and granite building contains two enormous hallways packed with food stalls, with a central atrium tying the wings together and providing two levels of seating. If you are eating here there is unfortunately little high quality fare to be found, but you do have a few options. Gourmet India is the spot to go for a quick Indian fix. Something called Mmmac N' Cheese is great if you're looking for something with a few more carbs. Also, Boston Chowda Co serves an acceptable clam chowder for a chain.
If you can splash out a little more or want to sit down, try the Japanese inspired Wagamama by the south entrance. Flagship of tourism Cheers Boston is here too, because well, where else would it be? This is the location where the interior looks like the TV show. Check out the original one on Beacon Hill for the exterior look. For something completely different visit JJ Donovan's. This old school Irish tavern is cash only and can be an oasis of calm for those looking to escape the crowded marketplace. Family owned, they routinely refuse million dollar buy out offers. It's not fancy, it's traditional, and the owners like it that way.
For shopping, you'll move to the North and South Market buildings. Check out 1630 for gifts made by artisans using techniques known to the first European colonists. You'll also find antiques and collectables, sourced from around New England so you can own a piece of the history. For all of your Boston sports paraphernalia needs investigate Lucys League to find officially licensed clothing for your favorite team. The usual suspects found in any respectable mall are here as well, like Banana Republic, Urban Outfitters, and Yankee Candle. Popular streetwear shop Uniqlo also occupies the second floor of Quincy Market.

Itineraries

• The Freedom Trail — A major tourist draw of significant historical sites in Boston. These 17 locations spread over 2½ miles (4 km) are crucial to understanding revolutionary era America. Many are located here.

Theatres

• Boston Opera House

  phone: +1 617 259-3400
  address: 539 Washington St
  Opened in 1928 as a movie theater, it was rededicated as a performing arts venue in 1980, and was most recently restored in 2004. The Boston Ballet is the primary offering here.

• Charles Playhouse

  phone: +1 617 426-6912
  address: 74 Warrenton St
  Performances of the Blue Man Group and Shear Madness play here. The building first opened in 1839 as a church, and was converted to a performing arts space in 1957.

• Cutler Majestic Theatre

  phone: +1 617 824-8000
  address: 219 Tremont St
  Performing arts owned by Emerson College. Originally designed for opera performances in 1903.

• Orpheum Theatre

  phone: +1 617 482-0106
  address: 1 Hamilton Pl
  Built in 1852, The Orpheum is one of the oldest theaters in America and was the original home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Seats 2,700 after many substantial rebuilds, most recently in 2009.

• Paramount

  phone: +1 617 824-8000
  address: 559 Washington St
  Performing arts owned by Emerson College. This is the Art-Deco one opened in the 1930s as a movie theater. Two smaller spaces are here as well, the 150 seat Black Box Theatre, and a 170 seat screening room.

• Shubert Theatre

  phone: +1 866 348-9738
  address: 265 Tremont St

• Wang Theatre

  phone: +1 617 482-9393
  address: 270 Tremont St
  Opened in 1925, and seats over 3,600 people.

• Wilbur Theatre

  phone: +1 617 248-9700
  address: 246 Tremont St
  Comedy and music venue.

Tours

• Boston Duck Tours

  phone: +1 617 450-0068
  address: 1 Central Wharf
  An institution in their own right, these modified World War II DUKWs give a great, breezy, 80-minute tour of the city by land and sea, all in the same vehicle. One of the most famous, or at least most visible, tours in Boston. Visitors will sing songs, quack like a duck, and irritate passing Bostonians going about their business. It doesn't get any more touristy than this. Tours also depart from the Prudential Center and the Museum of Science.

• Boston Harbor Cruises

  phone: +1 617 227-4321
  address: One Long Wharf
  Boston Harbor Cruises is the only real seagoing commercial compliment to the MBTA. They partnered with the New England Aquarium to offer a 90 minute whale watch cruise for $53. If that sounds too tame, they also have something called Codzilla. It's kind of a harbor tour, except you're on a jet engine with seats. Go fast and get wet for $29. Finally they offer a bunch of different harbor cruises. Check out the USS Constitution from the water, investigate a few of Boston's lighthouses, or just watch the sun go down. Costs range anywhere from $23-66 depending on which one piques your interest. Special events are usually a bit fancier and more expensive, in 2017 some cruises touring the Tall Ships cost over $300!

• Boston Segway Tours

  phone: +1 617 421-1234
  address: 199 State St
  Everyone looks cool on a Segway. Right? Ticket price includes complimentary gloves (for your hands) and also water.

• Classic Harbor Line

  phone: +1 617 951-2460
  address: 60 Rowes Wharf
  Another good option to meet your harbor cruise needs. This company is a little fancier, with two ships for you to choose from. One is a sort of steamboat-inspired art-deco vessel, or opt instead for a schooner and head into the harbor under good old fashioned sail power.

• Mass Bay Lines

  phone: +1 617 542-8000
  address: 60 Rowes Wharf
  Another good option for harbor cruising.

• Old Town Trolley Tours

  phone: +1 617 269-7010
  address: 200 Atlantic Ave
  Little touristic trollies that make the rounds to all the major sights downtown. You can hop on and hop off all day with your ticket. They also offer a "haunted" trolley tour during evenings.

• Urban AdvenTours

  phone: +1 617 670-0637
  address: 103 Atlantic Ave
  Bicycle tours of Boston for families, students and visitors. Also offers a bicycle shop for repairs and sells various necessities for your two-wheeled vehicle.

Events

• Lantern Festival is celebrated during the Chinese New Year, which is first day of the first month on the Chinese calendar, and lasts until the 15th day. Throughout the celebration, there are more street and food vendors than usual, fireworks and firecrackers. There are also several performances including the Lion dance and or parade, students of the local schools, and musical performances. This event takes place in the main streets of Chinatown.
• August Moon Festival, also called the Autumn Festival, takes place during 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese calendar. It’s the largest festival of the year. Performances, music, arts and crafts will sometimes be available. Every year varies. Also takes place in the main streets of Chinatown.

• Boston Arts Festival

  address: Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
  Art in the park during the beginning of September.

• Boston Public Market

  phone: +1 617 973-4909
  address: 100 Hanover St
  This year-round market features vendors of high quality goods and comestibles from across New England. It's a great place, but with this location and quality be prepared to pay a little extra. Some of the stalls here sell a fantastic assortment of old fashioned Yankee craftsmanship. American Stonecraft is an artisanal producer of dishes, coasters, food slates and such. All made from stones pulled from farm fields in the region. A producer of fine wood products, Peterman's Boards and Bowls are made from fallen or discarded timber. While Hopsters Alley features a selection of New England beer, wine and spirits. This store is run by a brewery of the same name, and offers growler fills here as well. Explore the rest of the Market for more local and organic produce, artisanal tea shops, noodle houses, chocolatiers, bakers, cheesemongers and butchers.

• Brattle Book Shop

  phone: +1 617 542-0210
  address: 9 West St.
  Three floor used and rare book store with an outdoor bargain area set up in a neighboring alley. Brattle Book Shop was founded in 1825 and is one of the oldest book shops in the country.

• Commonwealth Books

  phone: +1 617 338-6328
  address: 9 Spring Ln
  Fantastic bookstore downtown selling antique, rare, used, and new tomes. Particular emphasis on subjects like: the arts, architecture, history, literature, philosophy, and religion. You can also find other exclusive treasures here, like old maps, engravings, and manuscripts. Even just walking down this street and looking around is an experience.

• Primark

  phone: +1 617 350-5232
  address: 10 Summer Street
  Come to America to buy cheap clothes from an Irish retailer who sells products made in Mauritius and Bangladesh! In all seriousness, these fast fashions are cheap. Like eerily cheap. You'll get a great deal, but don't expect these clothes to last for years.

• Kenmore Army & Navy Stores

  phone: +1 617 292-2769
  address: 477 Washington St
  Fulfill all your surplus military needs at this branch of the Army/Navy store. You'll find the usual run of pants, shirts, uniforms, boots and outerwear. What really makes this place special is the odder items, like flame retardant jumpsuits (including face mask!), army rations, various nettings, and empty ammo canisters.

• Joseph Gann Jewelers

  phone: +1 617 426-4932
  address: 387 Washington St
  Classy jewelry, watches, crystal, and other high end items. A relative "newcomer" on the scene, this place offers a better selection than the storied E.B. Horn just down the street.

• Ministry of Supply HQ

  phone: +1 617 936-4980
  address: 105 South St
  Headquarters of an upscale menswear shop in the Leather District.

• Blank Label

  phone: +1 781 236-3559
  address: 36 Bromfield St, Suite #204
  Custom fitted bespoke menswear. Suits, jackets, vests, trenchcoats, you name it.

Downtown is not Boston's culinary epicenter. Truly exciting restaurants tend to be located in outlying neighborhoods due to the high costs of real estate downtown and the weird demographics (filled with office workers and tourists during the day, deserted at night). Because of this, visitors to the city who mostly stay Downtown may think that Boston is living up to the tired New England stereotype of bland cuisine. This couldn't be further from the truth, so leaving Downtown to eat is a must when visiting. While there are a lot of truly forgettable places to eat Downtown, it's not all bad. With a little research you should be able to find a quality meal at whatever price point you're seeking.
Downtown's budget restaurants tend to be geared towards the horde of office workers who descend on the city during the week so many of them are only open for weekday lunch. If you do happen to visit during a weekday, save some money and follow the be-suited crowds to a place that will have better food for much less than tourist-oriented spots.
For authentic Chinese cuisine, you can't do better than Chinatown. Also known for having a number of restaurants that stay open late on weekends (3 or 4AM). Many of these restaurants have been cutting back their late night hours, so call ahead to confirm closing times.

Budget

• Kanes Donuts

  phone: +1 857 317-2654
  address: 90 Oliver St
  Fancy spot for doughnuts and coffee.

• Piperi Mediterranean Grill

  phone: +1 617 227-7471
  address: 1 Beacon St
  Kind of like Chipotle, but for falafel and gyros. There's a basic price depending on your protein and you can get it as a wrap or a salad. There are lots of toppings to customize your order and you can add a side of chips and hummus. Fast and cheap food so you can get back to sight seeing, you can see King's Chapel across the street.

• Shawarma Falafel

  phone: +1 857 265-3017
  address: 26 Province St
  Busy Lebanese falafel shop.

• Wheelhouse

  phone: +1 617 422-0082
  address: 63 Broad Street
  The perfect spot for breakfast or lunch on the go. Several creative versions of burgers with tongue tickling flavor profiles. The fries are "smashed" and not the sticks you're probably expecting.

• Casa Razdora

  phone: +1 617 338-6700
  address: 115 Water St
  Some of the best lunch oriented Italian fare in the city. Stop in if the lines don't look too bad. Almost everything on the menu is homemade.

• Villa Mexico Cafe

  phone: +1 617 957-0725
  address: 121 Water St
  Fantastic burritos, tacos and tortas. Surprisingly authentic. Another popular spot with the lunch crowd.

• South Street Diner

  phone: +1 617 350-0028
  address: 178 Kneeland St
  Absolutely legendary. A fixture in Boston's late night scene since 1947. It's the quintessential American greasy spoon diner experience. The subject of a documentary in 2012, it's been a setting in a few other films. Celebrities have been known to make appearances here once in a blue moon, but you are more likely to find police and firemen taking a load off and enjoying whatever is coming off the grill.

• Saus Boston

  phone: +1 617 248-8835
  address: 33 Union St
  Belgian style poutine slathered in delicious sauces. Everything made in house from scratch. Offers a changing selection of quality beers on draft and in cans. Excellent value for the quality here, especially considering the location.

• Sam LaGrassa's

  phone: +1 617 357-6861
  address: 44 Province St
  One of the city's most famous sandwich joints. Delicious and huge, but pricey. Serves up classic deli fare like pastrami and corned beef sandwiches.

Chinatown

• New Saigon Sandwich

  phone: +1 617 542-6296
  address: 696 Washington St
  Dirt cheap bánh mì, i.e. Vietnamese submarine sandwiches on baguettes and boxed lunches. No tables, but you can walk over to the Boston Common and eat your lunch there.

• Eldo Cake House

  phone: +1 617 350-7977
  address: 36 Harrison Ave
  An assortment of Chinese styled cakes. Chinese styled cakes often incorporate fruit and aren’t too sweet. Also, this shop offers some specialty drinks, i.e., milk teas. There’s a small eat-in area.

• Ho Yuen Bakery

  phone: +1 617 426-8320
  address: 54 Beach St
  Another cheap, but delicious bakery stocked with pastries, buns, and tarts.

• Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe

  phone: +1 617 482-1888
  address: 86 Bedford St
  Hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurant with a few curated dishes specializing in hand-pulled noodles. The doughy noodles and spicy lamb soup base is best exemplified by option #16. Get your face close to the bowl and don't wear white! Potentially the best dollar to flavor ratio in the city.

• China Pearl

  phone: +1 617 426-4338
  address: 9 Tyler St
  Great food, great value, has many loyal patrons. Particularly well known for its dim sum: some regard this as the best place for dim sum in Chinatown. If you come during peak time (Sundays from 11AM-1PM), expect at least a half hour wait.

• Avana Sushi

  phone: +1 617 818-7782
  address: 42 Beach St

• Chinatown Cafe

  phone: +1 617 695-9888
  address: 262 Harrison Ave
  Chinatown pushes south, venture a little off the track to find large portions of cheap and tasty Chinese food. Everything comes in styrofoam containers whether you're dining in or not. People like the wonton soup and the crispy salt and pepper pork. Save room for desert and walk across the street to May's Cake House and their sweet selections.

• My Thai Vegan Cafe

  phone: +1 617 451-2395
  address: 3 Beach St, 2nd fl
  A dream come true for vegetarians, as the entire menu is vegetarian here. Features fake meat dishes (e.g. "chicken", "pork") as well as arguably more authentic vegetarian creations. Also check out the acclaimed vegan sandwiches at Cuong's right next door.

• Gourmet Dumpling House

  phone: +1 617 338-6223
  address: 52 Beach St
  Another restaurant with well priced authentic comestibles. The "mini-steamed pork buns" are a notable specialty, and are similar to those at the Taiwan Cafe which was founded by ex-employees of the former.

Mid-range

• Hei La Moon

  phone: +1 617 338-8813
  address: 88 Beach St
  Just outside of Chinatown proper... but only just. Hei La Moon is relatively new on the Chinatown restaurant scene, but it has already established itself as a worthy competitor, particularly in the area of dim sum.

• The Black Rose

  phone: +1 617 742-2286
  address: 160 State St
  Despite its proximity to Faneuil Hall, tourists sometimes overlook this location. Try the seared scallops–plump, juicy, very fresh. Excellent deals on lobster too. Live acoustic Irish music with authentic Irish musicians. Much appreciated by the local crowd early on a Sunday evening; fathers dancing with small children and regulars calling for their favorite songs. Waitstaff efficient and friendly.

• Silvertone Bar and Grill

  phone: +1 617 338-7887
  address: 69 Bromfield St
  A hip afterwork hangout with very good "new American" food and the best macaroni and cheese in town, right near Tremont Street and the Boston Common.

• Jacob Wirth

  phone: +1 617 338-8586
  address: 31-37 Stuart Street
  A little touristy and overpriced, but still a fun time. This is the only "olde-tyme" (circa 1868) German style beerhall in the area. A bunch of different options for beer and sausages, plus the standard run of bar bites.

• East Ocean City

  phone: +1 617 542-2504
  address: 27 Beach St
  Authentic. Chefs will make a custom dish from something you select from the live tank.

• jm Curley

  phone: +1 617 338-5333
  address: 21 Temple Pl
  Small, meat focused menu that serves late into the night. Also has alcoholic milkshakes and a decent beer list. For something more exclusive, there is a secret steakhouse in the back.

• Union Oyster House

  phone: +1 617 227-2750
  address: 41 Union St
  Oldest continuously operating restaurant in the US. Comfortable atmosphere. Raw bar.

• Erbulance

  phone: +1 617 426-6969
  address: 69 Church St
  Cozy Italian place with constantly updating menu.

Splurge

Many of Boston's swankiest restaurants are located Downtown. Be sure to do some research before embarking on a Downtown fine dining adventure. There are some truly world-class restaurants here, but also a lot of overpriced places catering to tourists and expense account lunches.

• Marliave

  phone: +1 617 422-0004
  address: 10 Bosworth St
  Fancy cocktails and French bar food. This is a reincarnation of the original Restaurant Marliave, founded in 1885 and a spot where Boston's elite took their mistresses.

• Parker's Restaurant

  phone: +1 617 725-1600
  address: 60 School St
  Where the Boston Cream Pie originated.

• Legal Crossing

  phone: +1 617 692-8888
  address: 558 Washington St
  The swanky sibling in the Legal Seafoods empire. Instead of the slightly kitschy standard Legal, Legal Crossing has sleek modern decor and fancier dishes. There is a full bar with an extensive cocktail menu.

• Yvonne's

  phone: +1 617 267-0047
  address: 2 Winter Pl
  After the shuttering of Locke-Ober—one of Boston's oldest and poshest restaurants—Yvonne's opened in 2015 as a modern reinterpretation of the supper club. Some of the space was converted into luxury condos, but much of the old world charm here remains.

• Meritage

  phone: +1 617 439-3995
  address: 70 Rowes Wharf
  "Vineyard-to-table" fare in a swanky waterfront hotel.

• Troquet

  phone: +1 617 695-9463
  address: 107 South St
  Considered one of the best wine bars in the country, Troquet serves a variety of half and full glasses along with bottles of wine paired with its French menu. The food is fabulous as its atmosphere.

• O Ya

  phone: +1 617 654-9900
  address: 9 East St
  Boston's quintessential sushi restaurant, serving Wagyu beef and a James Beard Award. Reservations recommended.

• Pabu

  phone: +1 857 327-7228
  address: 3 Franklin St
  Sushi bar and a modern take on Izakaya style dining. Helmed by Michael Mina; holder of a James Beard award, he was also voted Bon Appétit and San Francisco Magazine's Chef of the Year in 2005.

• Barracuda

  phone: +1 617 482-0301
  address: 15 Bosworth St

• Bell in Hand

  phone: +1 617 227-2098
  address: 45 Union St
  Established in 1795, the bar (falsely) claims to be the oldest continuously operating tavern in the country. It also functions as far more of a club than a tavern. Downstairs is generally packed on weekends, upstairs is a multi-room club.

• Biddy Early's

  phone: +1 617 654-9944
  address: 141 Pearl St
  The last dive standing downtown.

• The Corner Pub

  phone: +1 617 542-7080
  address: 162 Lincoln St
  If you need to get away from the glitz and glamour, head over to this respectable bar near the bus station.

• The Green Dragon Tavern

  phone: +1 617 367-0055
  address: 11 Marshall St
  A relaxing place to stop in and take a break from the freedom trail. A replica of the original 1657 Green Dragon Tavern, where the Sons of Liberty met and discussed political revolution. British officers also frequented the original pub and were spied upon by American patriots. Modeled after the “Headquarters of the Revolution”, the Green Dragon was rebuilt in the Blackstone Historic District after a major fire. Featuring lively entertainment and lovely food in an Irish pub atmosphere.

• Mr. Dooley's

  phone: +1 617 338-5656
  address: 77 Broad St

• Shojo

  phone: +1 617 423-7888
  address: 9 Tyler St

• Stoddard's Fine Food & Ale

  phone: +1 617 426-0048
  address: 48 Temple Pl
  Stoddard's is also a restaurant, but it is better known as a place to drink. Has a respected take on the Moscow Mule and an extensive draft selection. The bar is a slightly modern spin on the late 19th century with lots of dark woods and brass fixtures.

• The Tam

  phone: +1 617 482-9182
  address: 222 Tremont St
  A good old fashioned faux-dive bar located downtown in the theatre district. It used to be a real dive, but that was decades ago. Friendly bartenders, cheap prices for beer, and an all around fantastic atmosphere complete with video games, karaoke, trivia, and old-style jukeboxes make for an enjoyable night for drinkers of all ages. Cash only.

Clubs

• The Alley

  phone: +1 617 263-1449
  address: 14 Pi Alley
  Gay dance club.

• Good Life

  phone: +1 617 451-2622
  address: 28 Kingston St
  The Good Life is a hidden gem, located in Boston's financial district. They offer an oft-changing menu of high quality food in their simple/chic dining room. Guests can also enjoy visiting their unique downstairs vodka lounge that features over 150 different types! Various music acts featured nightly downstairs. No Cover Charge.

• Hong Kong

  phone: +1 617 227-2226
  address: 65 Chatham St
  Dance club next to Faneuil Hall selling "scorpion bowls" and meat sticks of questionable provenance.

• Royale

  phone: +1 617 338-7699
  address: 279 Tremont St

• Tunnel

  phone: +1 617 357-5005
  address: 100 Stuart St

• Whisky Saigon

  phone: +1 617 482-7799
  address: 116 Boylston St

Coffee

When downtown, you're probably within sight of a Dunks' or a Starbucks, if not try turning around. But you didn't come here to drink national chain coffee did you? Try one of these (sort of) local options instead. They almost always offer free Wi-Fi too, if that sweetens the deal for you.

• Boston Brewin Coffee

  phone: +1 857 302-0859
  address: 45 Bromfield St
  Coffee shop dedicated to paying its employees a livable wage and donates all its profits to local charities chosen by customers.

• Boston Common Coffee Company

  phone: +1 617-542-0595
  address: 10 High St
  Provides a comforting atmosphere. A great place to get fresh coffee, soups and salads, and fresh pastries.

• Caffe Nero

  phone: +1 617 936-3432
  address: 560 Washington St
  The first U.S. location of a popular British coffee chain

• Espresso Love

  phone: +1 857 284-7462
  address: 33 Broad St
  Not only your morning java, but lots of great soups and sandwiches. Fresh cookies and other delicious treats are baked on site daily.

• Gracenote Coffee

  address: 108 Lincoln St.
  Featuring a standing espresso bar, this shop features two takes on the drink daily. They also offer drip coffee, and a few snacks from local bakeries. Gracenote roasts their own, and sells the product to a number of local restaurants.

• Ogawa Coffee

  phone: +1 617 780-7139
  address: 10 Milk St
  First U.S. location of an upscale Japanese coffee chain.

• Render Coffee

  phone: +1 617 401-2421
  address: 121 Devonshire St
  Also a maker space with laser cutters, 3D printers and a CNC machine for rent.

• Thinking Cup

  phone: +1 617-482-5555
  address: 165 Tremont St
  A great place to get a cup of coffee. The staff is young and hip, but they are always very friendly, upbeat, and professional. They offer an array of sandwiches and baked goods.

• Flat Black Coffee Company

  phone: +1 617 951-1440
  This Dorchester-based company is a great place to get fresh coffees from around the world. Most of their coffees are certified Organic, Shade Grown and Fair Trade.

• address: 260 Franklin St

• address: 100 High St

• address: 50 Broad St

• address: 255 State St

Go ahead and take a quick glance at the price points on offer here. Yeah. Sorry about that. Before you throw up your hands in total disgust, however, just know that a lot of these price points are only the quoted rack rates. For many of the spendier items here, try a hotel consolidator website or calling the hotel directly. You might see prices fall by 50% or more, especially if you can be flexible with your dates. Still, there's no way around the fact that you're looking at spending $300 and up for this area. Remember whatever rate you're quoted will be roughly 20% higher due to various taxes, fees, and surcharges. Try looking into the Fenway or Allston if you need to bring costs down.

Budget

• Hostelling International Boston

  phone: +1 617-536-9455
  address: 19 Stuart St
  Communal kitchen, common areas, laundry facilities, meeting rooms and luggage storage. There is a maximum stay of 14 nights per calendar year.

• Boston Furnished Apartments

  phone: +1 617 357-6900
  address: 120 Milk St
  A furnished apartment rental agency offering an alternative to a hotel room. These rentals are private homes, condos or apartments in residential buildings within the Back Bay, Beacon Hill, North End, South End, and Financial District neighborhoods. There are monthly, weekly and nightly rentals available. The homes range in size from smaller studios to one or two bedroom apartments, and all have fully equipped kitchens and private bathrooms. This is a unique way to experience the city like a Bostonian, in a brownstone home. Rental paperwork is required and most credit cards are accepted.

Mid-range

• Found Hotel

  phone: +1 617 426-6220
  address: 78 Charles Street South
  Built in 1877 as the Sumner Hotel. The previous incarnation was the Milner Hotel. Amenities include: 24-hour front desk, ticket service, luggage storage, safety deposit box.

• Harborside Inn

  phone: +1 617 723-7500
  address: 185 State St
  Pleasant, remodeled in the boutique style (exposed brick, modern furniture without being uncomfortable). Rooms are a decent size, comfortable bed, no desk, nice TV, wireless internet free in all rooms, clean. Very quiet - no street noise at all. Coffee available in the lobby all day for free. No restaurant or room service. Basic travelers' hotel - no gym. Close to Fanueil Hall, Aquarium, many restaurants within walking distance.

• Nine Zero

  phone: +1 617 772-5800
  address: 90 Tremont St
  Trendy boutique hotel. For a real splurge stay in the Cloud Nine Suite with views of Boston Common.

• W Boston

  phone: +1 617 261-8700
  address: 100 Stuart St
  Near Boston’s theatre district, 235 modern guest rooms all with the signature W bed. The hotel also features the restaurant Market, from celebrity-chef Jean-Georges and the W lounge in the lobby.

• DoubleTree by Hilton

  phone: +1 617 956-7900
  address: 821 Washington St
  Guests gain complimentary access to the adjoining YMCA fitness center (complete with indoor pool, basketball court and group classes). A full-service Starbucks is on the lower level of the hotel.

• Hilton Boston Downtown

  phone: +1 617 556-0006
  address: 89 Broad St
  This accessible hotel has 403 rooms and a fitness center.

Splurge

• InterContinental Boston

  phone: +1 617 747-1000
  address: 510 Atlantic Ave
  424 guest rooms & suites in this 5 star hotel.

• Marriott Vacation Club Pulse

  phone: +1 617 310-6300
  address: 3 McKinley Square
  If you're going to throw down coin, you may as well do it here. This was once the customs house for the city of Boston, where all items unloaded from the nearby docks were tracked and taxed. The building dates from the early 1800s, the tower was added about 100 years ago, and the hotel remodel happened in the 1990s. It's got charm, a great location and all the modern conveniences you'd expect.

• Courtyard Boston Tremont Hotel

  phone: +1 617 426-1400
  address: 275 Tremont St
  This 4-star hotel is across the street from the Wang Theatre.

• Omni Parker House Hotel

  phone: +1 617 227-8600
  address: 60 School St
  The oldest hotel in America, although the current building dates from the 1920s. Located in downtown Boston on the Freedom Trail, the venerable Omni Parker House Hotel opened its doors in 1855. If you want to surround yourself in history in the heart of Downtown Boston, this is the place to stay. However, note that many of the hotel's rooms are small and over-crowded with furniture. Ho Chi Minh & Malcolm X are former employees. Bonus: If you eat in the dining room, ask to sit in the booth in which JFK asked Jackie O to marry him.

• New Ritz-Carlton

  phone: +1 617 574-7100
  address: 10 Avery St
  Located in the Theater District directly across the common from the original Riz-Carlton. Relatively new hotel with a very modern design.

• Boston Harbor Hotel

  phone: +1 617 439-7000
  address: 70 Rowes Wharf
  Wake up to the sunrise over the harbor. Big swimming pool, fitness center.

• Hyatt Regency Boston

  phone: +1 617 912-1234
  address: 1 Ave de Lafayette
  Big luxury hotel.

• Boston Marriott Longwharf

  phone: +1 617 227-0800
  address: 296 State St
  It's on Boston Harbor at the historic Long Wharf in downtown Boston. This hotel features 400 hotel rooms, 11 hotel suites, a concierge lounge with harbor views, and Oceana Restaurant that serves fresh seafood cuisine.

• The Langham Hotel Boston

  phone: +1 617 451-1900
  address: 250 Franklin St
  It was built for the Federal Reserve Bank. This AAA four-diamond Boston hotel is now a national architectural landmark. The hotel overlooks the gardens of Post Office Square and is steps from Boston's shops, restaurants and attractions such as Faneuil Hall, Newbury Street, the Freedom Trail, and the financial district. Cafe Fleuri inside is now known as one of Boston's finest restaurants and is known for its Saturday Chocolate Bar Buffet and Sunday Jazz brunch.

• You're steps away from the North End, dripping with old world Italian charm.
• Pay a visit to Charlestown and the USS Constitution, oldest commissioned warship still afloat.
• Investigate more historic sites in Quincy at Adams National Historical Park, one time farmstead and home to two presidents.
• Head down to the wharf and take a ferry out to the Boston Harbor Islands. It's a great way to beat the heat in summertime.
• Storied Fenway Park is just a few stops away in Fenway. If the B's aren't playing today, try the Museum of Fine Arts instead.