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Boston Guide, map and photos. boo.com members recommend hotels, restaurants and attractions in Boston

Boston guide

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Steeped in history and small enough to explore in a day, Boston is one of America's most charming cities. This is the city that spawned America's first public park, its first public college and its first subway system. Funnily enough, it is America's oldest city too. But it's not all history. Socialising and sports are all pastimes of Bostonians, as is relaxing - one of Boston's finest attributes is its easy pace of life.

Latest reviews of Boston

The staff was really nice and the place itself is pretty cosy. The only bummer about staying here is transportation, since it\'s located right outside of Boston so it\'s always a small trip til you get downtown to see what really matters. If you have no problems with that, this place...more The staff was really nice and the place itself is pretty cosy. The only bummer about staying here is transportation, since it\'s located right outside of Boston so it\'s always a small trip til you get downtown to see what really matters. If you have no problems with that, this place is pretty chill and gets in the Boston vibe really fast.close

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by pauloj868208 – posted on Jan 26, 2008

pauloj868208, from Brazil, has 4 reviews 4

Boston is a great desination for travelers of all styles. Whether you are looking for historic tours of many of our nation's most storied locations, fine dining, shopping or night life, Boston has it all. A Duck Tour is a great way to start your vacation and get the lay of the land (and sea!)...more Boston is a great desination for travelers of all styles. Whether you are looking for historic tours of many of our nation's most storied locations, fine dining, shopping or night life, Boston has it all. A Duck Tour is a great way to start your vacation and get the lay of the land (and sea!) http://www.bostonducktours.com/ If a walking tour rich in American Revolutionary history strikes your fancy, The Freedom Trail is an absolute must. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile red-brick walking trail that leads you to 16 nationally significant historic sites. http://www.thefreedomtrail.org/ If shopping is your things, take a stroll down renowned Newbury Street for some of the area's finest shops. When you get hungry or thirsty, stop into one of Newbury Streets fine restaurants for a cocktail, appetizer or meal. My favorite spot is Croma (http://www.cromaboston.com/) Their thin crust pizzas are fantastic, and it has one of the best wine selections in the city. If Italian food is your thing, you have to hit the North End, Boston's version of Little Italy. I find the Italian food here to rival any other destination in the city. Tip: Don't plan ahead. Simply walk around the North End, grab a drink in a few locations and find the restaurant that looks best to you. I've found that some of the best spots are the "hole in the wall" type places that aren't heavily advertised. You don't have to spend a fortune in the North End for a great meal. Don't be afraid to come to Boston in the winter. If you can brave the weather, there are plenty of hotel deals to be found, and the lines at the restaurants certainly are shorter! Everyone should enjoy this fine city at least once in their lifetime.close

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by katymike – posted on Dec 3, 2007

katymike, from USA, has 1 reviews 1

Boston was a real revelation - far nicer than we were expecting. The people were welcoming and friendly, the food mostly good and the overall vibe very chilled and relaxing. There's excellent shopping, and naturally more history than most American cities. Traveling from the UK it was excellent...more Boston was a real revelation - far nicer than we were expecting. The people were welcoming and friendly, the food mostly good and the overall vibe very chilled and relaxing. There's excellent shopping, and naturally more history than most American cities. Traveling from the UK it was excellent value for money at $2 to £1.close

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by Jabawoki – posted on Jun 26, 2007

Jabawoki, from UK, has 14 reviews 14

I go to college in Boston and I wouldnt have it any other way. It's a great city with a lot of things to do and places to go. It's easy to get anywhere in the city (using the T or even just walking) and you can stroll through some lovely neighbourhoods like Newbury Street, the North End (sort of...more I go to college in Boston and I wouldnt have it any other way. It's a great city with a lot of things to do and places to go. It's easy to get anywhere in the city (using the T or even just walking) and you can stroll through some lovely neighbourhoods like Newbury Street, the North End (sort of like little italy), Beacon Hill, and Boston Commons. The nightlife isn't that great (especially for people under 21) and the weather is terrible most of the time, but otherwise this city is amazing!close

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by karusya – posted on Jun 19, 2007

karusya, from Russia, has 2 reviews 2

For some reason I had longed to visit Boston and when I got the chance last year, it didn't dissapoint. To me it is a perfect sized city in terms of being a tourist. I was able to walk to everything I wanted to see but the public transport is super too if needed. The people were some of the...more For some reason I had longed to visit Boston and when I got the chance last year, it didn't dissapoint. To me it is a perfect sized city in terms of being a tourist. I was able to walk to everything I wanted to see but the public transport is super too if needed. The people were some of the nicest I've ever encountered. Anytime I stopped to look at the map, someone came to my assistance straight away. Restaurants, bars, shopping - all were super. I just can't wait to go back!close

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by grainne – posted on May 1, 2007

grainne, from Ireland, has 46 reviews 46

I loved Boston!! It is a lovely city, with a great night life!! There are loads of great Irish bars i.e. the Littlest, J.J Foley’s, Banshee, Green Briar, Ned Devine’s and Hennessey’s is definitely the best place to go for food. It is a small city that is easy to get around whether you...more I loved Boston!! It is a lovely city, with a great night life!! There are loads of great Irish bars i.e. the Littlest, J.J Foley’s, Banshee, Green Briar, Ned Devine’s and Hennessey’s is definitely the best place to go for food. It is a small city that is easy to get around whether you get the subway or walk. There is lots of sight seeing to do in Boston like the Cheers Pub, the JFK museum, Boston Common, the State House and Quincy market where there is always lots of street entertainment. Cape Cod is about 2-3hrs away and definitely worth a visit!!close

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by aislinnmurphy – posted on May 1, 2007

aislinnmurphy, from Northern Ireland, has 33 reviews 33

Super location,subway shoping ,sightseeing and pubs are a 5 min walk from this hostel. They do a lot of small things well, little extras like the internet access (for a fee of course) and extra phone rooms separate from the bunks. I prefered it to "boston backpackers" where I spent...more Super location,subway shoping ,sightseeing and pubs are a 5 min walk from this hostel. They do a lot of small things well, little extras like the internet access (for a fee of course) and extra phone rooms separate from the bunks. I prefered it to "boston backpackers" where I spent my other nite. I simply liked the ambiance of the neighborhood.close

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by peter9903 – posted on Dec 18, 2006

peter9903, from Canada, has 4 reviews 4

Subways keep a lot of things at your fingertips, avoid staying in areas where you would need an extra "commuter train" as "they suck" Loved the shopping, if your a canadian go to "marshall's" it's like "winners" out here, liked the food and the...more Subways keep a lot of things at your fingertips, avoid staying in areas where you would need an extra "commuter train" as "they suck" Loved the shopping, if your a canadian go to "marshall's" it's like "winners" out here, liked the food and the well maintained buildings from the 1600s and 1700s I have no idea how people could have lived like that! Newberry st, boyston st & treemont were great!close

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by peter9903 – posted on Dec 17, 2006

peter9903, from Canada, has 4 reviews 4

Boston feels just right, with a perfect mix of old buildings and culture, with diversity of food, bars, entertainment and even tourist spots. Cambridge, over the river is very much a university city, and is very accepting and pretty. The river provides a nice place to relax and wander,...more Boston feels just right, with a perfect mix of old buildings and culture, with diversity of food, bars, entertainment and even tourist spots. Cambridge, over the river is very much a university city, and is very accepting and pretty. The river provides a nice place to relax and wander, especially at sunset.close

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by simonho225 – posted on Oct 20, 2006

simonho225, from England, has 5 reviews 5

Granted I'm from NH, and thus a little prejudiced, but I love Boston- its a great place, especially if you invest in a guidebook to show you the more impressive areas. The subway system is much easier to navigate than many other cities I've been to, and the atmosphere of the city in...more Granted I'm from NH, and thus a little prejudiced, but I love Boston- its a great place, especially if you invest in a guidebook to show you the more impressive areas. The subway system is much easier to navigate than many other cities I've been to, and the atmosphere of the city in general is friendly and close-knit. Definitely worth a trip!close

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by clnew – posted on Oct 15, 2006

clnew, from USA, has 2 reviews 2

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Top Rated Boston Places to Stay

  1. Carruth House 92%      

    Very nice house and lady!

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    by doreen5003 – posted on Nov 2008

    doreen5003, from Germany, has 8 reviews 8

    Heidi, the owner, is friendly and had many tips to make every aspect of our trip wonderful!!! We can't wait to come back and bring our family to stay here next time and enjoy the Carruth House.

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    by knottypotty3027 – posted on Nov 2008

    knottypotty3027, from USA, has 1 reviews 1
  2. H.I. Boston Downtown 82%      

    This hostel is extremely overpriced for the services it provides. While it is in a central location, the staff were not welcoming and did not smile or make eye contact during check in or check out. There was zero atmosphere in the hostel and nobody was making an effort to create atmosphere. The...

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    by clarejwalker5938 – posted on Nov 2008

    clarejwalker5938, from Australia, has 2 reviews 2

    VERY EXPENSIVE, ok hostel but totally overpriced, little choice in boston though, try a hotel maybe. breakfast was good but the place feels like a prison, rules about everything and very little atmosphere because of this, would stay again if they put the price down but not for $40 + $3 for non...

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    by turkm3936 – posted on Nov 2008

    turkm3936, from New Zealand, has 9 reviews 9
  3. Millennium Bostonian Hotel 80%      

    Great Location and friendly staff!

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    by Caoimhe – posted on May 2007

    Caoimhe, from Ireland, has 4 reviews 4
  4. Red Roof Inn 76%      

    After a rather grueling hike up the highway, I discovered that it is actually possible to take public transport to this place. Catch the train to Malden station, then take the 430 bus. You need to get off when you go over Main St., which is an overpass over the highway. However, the bus may loop...

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    by joel5804 – posted on Nov 2008

    joel5804, from Australia, has 1 reviews 1

    Hi, we find that it is a little difficult to find and the entrance and the way out is a little bit dangerous, since cars are driving fast in road 1.

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    by raulaliana8215 – posted on Oct 2008

    raulaliana8215, from USA, has 1 reviews 1
  5. Berkeley Residence, YWCA 76%      

    My wife and I stated one night and found it fine other than having to push two single beds together.

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    by timothyshaunprice9877 – posted on Nov 2008

    timothyshaunprice9877, from USA, has 1 reviews 1

    my room smelt like sweat and so did my bedclothes. i had a rotten time.

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    by michaelfincham3849 – posted on Nov 2008

    michaelfincham3849, from England, has 1 reviews 1

Top Rated Boston Restaurants

  1. The Cheesecake Factory100%      

    This is a gem of a restauraunt, don't let the name fool you, this has a super menu, catering for everybody, with great food even better staff, and spotlessly clean, friendly,clientele, with a great selection of beers and wines. Portions are substantial so go in hungry, (strangely big potions, don't leave a lot of room for their famous cheesecakes!), of which...

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    by dtdublin – posted on Sep 2008

    dtdublin, from Ireland, has 3 reviews 3
  2. Centre Street Cafe100%      

    Center Street Café is the best breakfast in Boston. Everything is organic and they buy their food from local farmers and vendors so everything is fresh and in season. Try the homemade biscuits – cheddar and salsa is my favorite. There is limited seating and always a line out the door, so I recommend coming early or bring a book to read in line – but there...

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    by Lindakay07 – posted on Dec 2007

    Lindakay07, from USA, has 2 reviews 2
  3. Top of the Hub Restaurant80%      

    Took my wife here 4 days after our wedding it was fantastic staff/view/food will call back agin. wort flying from Ireland just for the view thanks guys Tommy

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    by anonymous – posted on Nov 2008

  4. Mistral80%      

    • What?

        French and Mediterranean Cuisine
    • Where?

        Near the Back Bay Station‎
    • Anything Else?

        This casual and elegant restaurant is has a warm and open feeling to it with its large arched windows. It is recommended to make a resevation.

    This place has a great atmosphere. Not exceptionally stiff or formal, but very classy. It has a nice bar also that you can hang out at, before or after dinner. I would recommend the duck for entree. The salmon was good, but not amazing. The servings are very large, so appetizer, entree and dessert might be a little too much to order, unless you are...

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    by nleow – posted on Jun 2008

    nleow, from Australia, has 11 reviews 11
  5. Paramount80%      

    Paramount is a favourite in Boston's Beacon Hill neighbourhood and has been for years. It's great for lunchtime with sandwiches but also for informal eats at night time.

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    by colm – posted on Jun 2007

    colm, from Ireland, has 223 reviews 223

Top Rated Boston Attractions

  1. JFK Museum100%      

    I really enjoyed visiting the JFK museum but then again I love everything to do with the Kennedy’s! It is very easy to get to as there is a JFK stop on the Red line and then shuttle buses every 20 mins to the museum. It shows everything to do with his life, his family, childhood in Boston and Cape Cod and political career. It also shows a replicate of both...

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    by aislinnmurphy – posted on May 2007

    aislinnmurphy, from Northern Ireland, has 33 reviews 33
  2. Freedom Trail100%      

    There's no better way to see Boston, a city best visited by walking, than the Freedom Trail. It gives you American history, walks you past many of the city's best places, and shows you why Boston is called America's Walking City.

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    by marko – posted on May 2007

    marko, from USA, has 13 reviews 13
  3. Skywalk Observatory100%      

    For the best view in Boston this is where to go. And not only do you get to see the city in its entirety, you learn about the history of the city thanks to the entertaining audio guide.

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    by colm – posted on Jun 2007

    colm, from Ireland, has 223 reviews 223
  4. Boston Duck Tours100%      

    Funny, informative, and incorporating trips through the city centre and along the Charles River, the Boston Duck Tours are one of the best ways to see this historic city. Well-read and witty guides keep you entertained for the duration of the tour and, if you're lucky, might even let you drive a duck!

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    by colm – posted on Sep 2007

    colm, from Ireland, has 223 reviews 223
  5. Faneuil Hall & Marketplace100%      

    Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market has a great lively atmosphere about it, there is always plenty of street entertainment and the food in Quincy Market is delicious!! There are also plenty of great shops and bars around and the replicate of the inside of the Cheers Bar is also just a few mins away.

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    by aislinnmurphy – posted on Jun 2007

    aislinnmurphy, from Northern Ireland, has 33 reviews 33

Top Rated Boston Bars

  1. The Littlest Bar100%      

    One of the best bars Ive ever been in!!! Its named the Littlest because the max it can hold is about 20 people. Crates of beer are used as seats, and empty kegs are ysed as tables... Always great craic in there, especially when theres live music!! If your ever in Boston, check it out!!

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    by erichiggins – posted on Sep 2008

    erichiggins, from Ireland, has 6 reviews 6
  2. Oak Bar100%      

    Best martinis on the planet!

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    by Lindakay07 – posted on Aug 2007

    Lindakay07, from USA, has 2 reviews 2
  3. The Banshee pub100%      

    The Banshee pub is down in Dorchester Boston. This is a lively pub with a great atmosphere. The staff is very friendly, food is great and the place was always packed on a Sunday and when GAA matches are on. They also usually have karaoke on a Thursday night which is always a laugh!! I always had a great night here!!

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    by aislinnmurphy – posted on May 2007

    aislinnmurphy, from Northern Ireland, has 33 reviews 33
  4. J.J. Foley100%      

    J.J. Foley’s is the best bar in Boston!! It is a lively bar with a great atmosphere. The owner Gerry is great craic and never forgets a face! Sunday night is the best night to go and it is guaranteed to be packed. It is one of the only bars in Boston that stay open late.

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    by aislinnmurphy – posted on May 2007

    aislinnmurphy, from Northern Ireland, has 33 reviews 33
  5. Greatest Bar80%      

    Can't go wrong in the North Station area here. Decent food, four levels of space all different, and a great refelction of the Boston sports scene. Go Pats!

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    by marko – posted on Jan 2008

    marko, from USA, has 13 reviews 13

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