Boston travel guide
Meet BostonBoston weather reportGetting into BostonTop attractions in BostonGetting Around BostonWhere to eat in Boston Page 2 : More information on Boston
Meet Boston
Boston is the capital of Massachusetts , the largest city in New England , and one of the most vibrant Culturally and historically rich places in the USA . Known as the ' Cradle of Modern America ' , this city is famous for igniting the American War of Independence , through the infamous Boston Tea Party incident in the 1773rd
However , despite its role in shaking off British rule in America , Boston is one of the most European - style cities in the U.S. . Its Sprawling streets , lined with terraced houses and 18th century churches , make it look like a traditional British town . Yet , Alongside this rich history , Massachusetts has Progressively modern outlook: it was the first state in the U.S. to the legalist same- sex marriage , and the second to elect an African American governor .
A haven of intellectual inspiration , one in 10 people living in Boston is a student at one of the city 's 57 academic institutions . The most prestigious of these are the famous Harvard University , and the respected Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( MIT ) . Consequently the city has a vibrant café culture and bustling nightlife , and cultural and creative atmosphere . Whatever, your interests are , Boston is sure to be your 'cup of tea ' .
Boston weather report
Boston 's weather varies with the seasons . The summer months of June to August are usually hot , with an average temperature of 24-28 degrees Celsius . Although this is great weather for swimming in the clear waters harbor , or lazing on one of the city 's beaches , the high humidity and little can be stifling if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing .
The shoulder season , September to October of , is perhaps the best time to explore Boston 's attractions . The sun still shines during these months , but generally the air is crisper , with an average temperature of about 20 degrees . At this time of year the crowds of tourists have gone , Which also makes hotel bookings cheaper , and much easier to come by .
The winter months , of November to February , are generally wet and sometimes snowy , with an average January temperature of -6. Obviously this is not beach weather , but if you wrap up warm , you can still explore the city 's attractions - just nip into the theaters , museums , restaurants , and cozy coffee houses .
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Boston
International flights to land at Boston Logan Airport , Which is located four kilometers from the city center. Silver Line buses stop at each terminal every 10 minutes , between the hours of 6am and 1am . The fare from the airport to downtown is $ 2 , and the journey will usually take between 20 and 30 minutes , Depending on the traffic .
Alternatively , the airport has its own rail station , Which runs trains to downtown every 10 minutes : the journey takes about 15 minutes and again , costs just $ 2
Taxis are available 24 hours a day from all terminals . Fares are Calculated by the meter , and the cost of getting from the airport to central Boston will be around $ 25
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Boston brims with museums and important historical sites . A great way to explore these attractions is through one of the many official trails that run Throughout the city . The Boston Freedom Trail is the most famous of these : this 5 km walk starts at the Boston Common Visitor Information Center and includes highlights Such as the 19th Century Park Street Church , Which was a meeting place for anti - slavery activists , Granary Burying Ground , where Revolutionaries Samuel Adams and John Hancock are interred , and the site where Revolutionaries planned the Boston Tea Party , Faneuil Hall .
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The Boston National Historical Park Service provides a free 90- minute guided tour to Accompany the trail , while Boston Prudential Center Sky Walk offers a great open top bus tour of the sites . Alternatively , if you'd like to explore trail alone , and the Freedom Trail two hour audio guide is available at the Boston Common Visitor Information Centre .
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Of course , a trip to Boston would not be complete without crossing the Charles River to see Harvard University - one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States . As you walk towards the beautiful ivy covered buildings , you'll pass through Harvard Yard , Which has been welcoming people to the university since the 1718th Then head to Harvard Square , to soak up the intellectual atmosphere amid dozens of cafes , restaurants , bars , and bookshops . Free student - led walking tours of the campus will guide you though the buildings that showcase American architecture from the Colonial period to the present .
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you plan to do a lot of sightseeing during your stay , it is a good idea to purchase a GoBoston Card , Which offers and free admission to over 70 of Boston 's attractions , in addition to shopping , dining and accommodation discounts .
Getting Around Boston
Boston 's compact city center makes it easy to travel around its major attractions on foot , and the city is filled with walkways , dry , and the Rose Fitzgerald Greenway , Which enable you to leisurely stroll around the various districts . Just remember to slip on your comfortable shoes when walking along the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill , and the granite paving stones of Market Place , and be sure to obey traffic signals , and Boston drivers are not the most accommodating of pedestrians .
If you'd like to give your feet a rest , the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority , or MBTA , operate buses and trains , Which serve the whole city . Tourists who plan to use public transit and great deal during their stay can make big savings by purchasing a pass that Allows unlimited travel on all services MTBA : the one day pass costs $ 9 , and the seven day pass , is priced at $ 15
When the Boston changeable weather treats you to rain , sleet , or snow , You may prefer your transport to take you directly to your destination . , you can simply hail a taxi in the street , or book one by telephone . The fare is Calculated by the subway , and you would expect to pay about $ 2.60 per mile .
If you want to be the one doing the driving , Boston , like any major city , has various car hire companies to choose from . , it is not advisable for tourists to drive around Boston : the city 's streets are not Laid out in a grid , like New York or Chicago , but rather twist around in a winding maze , that can stem incomprehensible to those visiting the city . Minor street names are OFTEN unmarked , and parking is limited and expensive . Boston is so well served by its public transport network that it is only really worth hiring a vehicle , if you plan to take a trip outside the city .
Where to eat in Boston
Boston May Be Called the 'Bean Town ' , but you'll find far more than baked beans on the menu here! Why not sample some fantastic fresh seafood on the harbor side , Devour delectable Italian dishes in the North End district , or nibble noodles and dim sum in Chinatown ?
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The oldest of Boston 's restaurants is Ye Olde Oyster House , on Union Street , Which has been serving Bostonians since the 1826th Come here for the finest broiled lobster , delicious Clam Chowder , or simply indulge in fresh oysters and clams at the semi circular raw bar .
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One of the best Italian eater is Il Capriccio , in Waltham , Which Serves delicious northern Italian cuisine . Try the porcini soufflé or the simple , but delectable , ravioli .
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If you enjoy oriental cooking , you should definitely spend an evening at Emperor 's Garden . Once a theater , this restaurant is housed in a dramatically ornate building at the heart of Boston 's Chinatown , and Serves a range of mouth - watering Cantonese dishes .
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If you like your maids to be chic and stylish , then 33 Restaurant & Lounge is the place for you . This elegant dining spot in the Back Bay district , boasts ultra modern decor , and features a diverse menu that fuses traditional New England cuisine with international fare .
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