Boston is happening and full of vibe place but first timers can find it difficult to get a place for themselves over there. Here we will give you our top recommendations for the safest and most convenient places for visitors and first-timers to stay in Boston, along with a useful map and places to steer clear of. I’ll also talk about my Boston accommodations and suggest a few top choices for different price ranges.
Prior to delving into the primary subject, let us examine a few noteworthy aspects of Boston:
Massachusetts’s largest city and capital is Boston. One of the oldest cities in the country, it was established in 1630 by Puritan migrants. The Boston Tea Party and other events during the American Revolution made the city an important part of American history.
Where to Stay in Boston for the First Time
The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail that connects 16 historically significant locations, including the Massachusetts State House, Old North Church, and the scene of the Boston Massacre, is a well-liked tourist destination in Boston. The city boasts a lovely riverfront and port. Enjoy beautiful scenery and recreational options in the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. The Irish community in Boston is strong, and this is reflected in the city’s many cultural activities and festivities, particularly on St. Patrick’s Day.
It’s usually safe to visit popular tourist destinations like Back Bay and Downtown. Dorchester, Mattapan, Roxbury, and Jamaica Plain have greater rates of crime than other areas of the city, thus you should remain elsewhere. If you must visit, go there during the day.
Back Bay
The most popular neighborhoods in Boston where first-time tourists choose to stay are Downtown and Back Bay. While Back Bay is an upmarket neighborhood with numerous retail and eating options, Downtown is well-known for being close to important historical sites. I stayed in the Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall in the Downtown section of Boston during my visit. It is located in the city center, this excellent mid-range hotel offers convenient access to public transportation, tourist sites, and tourist services. The personnel were really helpful, and my room was tidy and comfy.
Omni Parker House
The Omni Parker House, situated on the renowned Freedom Trial, is a very accessible hotel at 60 School Street. Traditional room furnishings include wooden beds and warm color schemes. A flat-screen TV, WiFi, air conditioning, and a private bathroom are included in the 210–620 square foot rooms. Parker’s Restaurant serves classic Boston fare, including the delicious Boston Cream Pie, while The Last Hurrah serves specialty drinks.
WaterFront Boston
Families, couples, and anybody looking for picturesque waterfront views, a lively ambiance, and easy access to the downtown area will find The Waterfront to be a fantastic base. This neighborhood is located north of the Financial District and east of Boston’s downtown. It includes places like the Seaport District and runs along the bay from Long Wharf to the Moakley Bridge.
A prominent feature of the Waterfront is the Seaport District, an area that is fast growing and has a blend of modern architecture, upscale dining options, retail stores, and office buildings. This neighborhood also houses the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. Among the many historical sites along the Waterfront is Long Wharf, which was a significant maritime and commercial hub in the eighteenth century.
Beacon Hill
In the center of Boston is the historic area known as Beacon Hill. Known for its attractive streets, antique buildings, and significant part in American history, it is one of the city’s most lovely neighborhoods. The area is well-known for its row homes built in the Federal style, which have gas-lit lanterns, ironwork, and red brick facades. The well-preserved structures that originate from the 19th century add to the distinct character of the region.
Numerous significant historical sites may be found atop Beacon Hill, such as the Massachusetts State House, which has a commanding view of the nation’s oldest public park, Boston Common. This area is also home to the Museum of African American History and the African Meeting House, the nation’s oldest black church still in existence.
North End City
Known for its colorful environment, Italian-American culture, and historical significance, North End is one of the city’s oldest districts. North End’s robust Italian-American community has earned it the moniker “Little Italy” in Boston. Since the late 19th century, it has been the hub of Italian immigration to Boston. Consequently, the region is home to a large number of Italian eateries, cafés, bakeries, and specialized stores.
The neighborhood has a distinct old-world appeal because to its abundance of antique houses, cobblestone streets, and little lanes. Notable locations include Paul Revere’s House, the residence of American hero Paul Revere, and the Old North Church, which was involved in the American Revolutionary War. Situated south of Back Bay, South End is bordered to the west by Massachusetts Avenue, to the east by Harrison Avenue, to the south by the Massachusetts Turnpike, and to the north by Southwest Corridor Park.
Residents of South End’s varied neighborhood include young professionals, families, artists, and LGBTQ+ individuals, among others from a range of backgrounds. With so many eateries, cafés, and pubs serving everything from classic New England meals to exotic treats, South End is well-known for its thriving culinary scene.
Boston South
Dorchester Bay encircles South Boston, sometimes referred to as “Southie,” to the east and south. It is situated south and east of the Fort Point area and Fort Point Channel.
South Boston has a long history of being mostly an Irish-American working-class neighborhood that has contributed significantly to the history of the city. The region is renowned for having a strong feeling of pride in its culture and community. Its population has changed over time, becoming more diverse and experiencing gentrification in some areas.
One of the biggest and oldest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country, honoring Irish ancestry and culture, has taken place in the area.
Logan International Airport
One of the busiest airports in the nation, Logan International Airport is a vital entry point to New England. Located in East Boston, it’s about three miles northeast of Boston’s downtown.
Staying close to the airport might help you save time and worry if you have a brief stopover between flights, an early morning flight, or a late-night departure. It saves you from having to make the lengthy trip to catch your flight, giving you more time to relax or get to the airport on time.
A, B, C, and E are the airport’s four primary passenger terminals. Different airlines and destinations are handled at each terminal. Logan Airport serves a number of large and regional carriers, such as United carriers, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and JetBlue Airways.
The Liberty
One of the hippest hotels in Boston is The Liberty (215 Charles Street). Located in Charles Street Jail, which has housed some of Boston’s most infamous criminals for 120 years, is this fascinating hotel. For those who are hooked with true crime podcasts, this means that if you visit Boston twice, you can stay in the jail at The Liberty and then the police headquarters at Hotel AKA Back Bay. Every week, The Liberty hosts a tour of the structure that covers its history and concludes with a glass of bubbly. The hotel’s interior design blends modern elements with historical references.Â
Also Read: Fun things to do in Boston
