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Downtown Boston

Downtown Boston holds something for newcomers and veterans alike. With its easy-to-use public transit system, just about every part of this neighborhood is at your fingertips. The city itself is a remarkable blend of the past and present, with posh modern buildings sprinkled between famous European-style architecture.

Attractions

There’s a lot to see in Downtown Boston, especially if you’re an architecture buff. First, there’s the Boston Common, one of the oldest parks in the U.S., founded in 1634, and the starting point of the Freedom Trail. History fans should plan on checking out the Granary Burying Ground, founded in 1660, because it’s the last resting place of famous figures in history like Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, James Otis, and John Hancock.

The Freedom Trail is the easiest way to hit many of the city’s historic landmarks, such as the site of the Boston Massacre, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, King’s Chapel, and the Benjamin Franklin statue. The Boston National Historic Park Visitor Center offers free 90-minute tours on the Freedom Trail.

If history isn’t your thing, stop by Downtown Crossing, a major outdoor pedestrian shopping center that sees about 230,000 people every day and boasts 530 retailers and restaurants. Shoppers can enjoy popular brand name department stores as well as smaller outlets.

Stop by the famous Boston Harbor and walk along the waterfront where you’ll see the New England Aquarium, a popular hotspot, with over 1.3 million visitors a year.

What to Eat in Downtown Boston

Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience in some of Boston’s most eclectic restaurants or a quick bite to eat at a cozy café, Downtown Boston has amazing choices to choose from.

For a wide variety of food choices without breaking the bank, Quincy Market is the solution. From classic New England clam chowder or Boston’s famous cannolis, to more traditional fare like pizza, there’s something for every appetite.

For those willing to dig a little deeper, Anthony's Pier 4 is an upscale seafood restaurant on the waterfront. If you’re going for a night on the town, places like Mantra feature a pre-theater dinner menu. Formerly a bank circa 1800, Mantra offers an interesting blend of Indian-French cuisine with east meets west decor.

Hotels

The best hotels in Downtown Boston are tucked away just next door to some of the city’s most famous attractions. For a more value-priced hotel without breaking the bank, The Midtown Hotel Boston is for you. With its 60s-era design and variety of service options, the Midtown Hotel Boston provides comfort and convenience at an affordable cost.

If you’re looking to mingle with the elite, the Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers has played host to foreign dignitaries and several former U.S. presidents, and is also a member of the Historic Hotels of America.

Check into the 4-star Nine Zero Hotel next door to the Boston Common for a great mix of location and luxurious accommodations in the Ladder District.

Getting Around

Driving a car around Downtown Boston is definitely an option – but parking can by hard to find, not to mention pricey. Instead, make use of the city’s extensive public transit system, the “T,” operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.

On the other hand, consider stretching out those legs and going for a walk through “America’s Walking City.” Nothing will give you a feel for Downtown Boston than taking in the sites by foot!

Taxis are also available, as are Old Town Trolley Tours. These orange and green trolleys will take you sightseeing through the downtown neighborhood as well as other famous city attractions.

Nearby Attractions

If you’ve managed to soak up all that Downtown Boston has to offer, don’t worry, there are plenty of other places to visit right next door. Paul Revere’s House is a definite historic must-see, located on the Freedom Trail, in the North End neighborhood. Further out you can visit the Museum of Fine Arts, the USS Constitution, and of course, Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox.

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