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With well over 50 museums in the area, Boston offers a wealth of venues to explore whatever interests you.  This historical city has got you covered, from the evolution of cars to architecture, art, sports, and more! Here’s just a taste!

 

Museums in Boston

 

Museum of African American History

Located in the historic Abiel Smith School on the Black Heritage Trail, this museum features exhibits about the Colonial period African-Americans of Boston. 

 

ICA Boston Art Gallery

This gallery focuses on thought-provoking and provocative contemporary art created by both emerging and established artists. 

 

Boston Museum of Fine Arts

With galleries filled with treasures from the ancient world to contemporary art, Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts can easily keep you enthralled for an entire day. In addition, visitors will want to check out the Japanese Buddhist Temple Room, Art of the Americas, and the African areas. 

 

MIT Museum

Immerse yourself for hours at the MIT museum among the interactive technology and science exhibits featuring robotics, engineering, research, and more. This museum is an excellent place for kids as well as adults.

 

Boston Children’s Museum 

For the younger crowd, the Boston Children’s Museum has hands-on interactive exhibits and activities designed to encourage children to explore and learn about their world.

 

The Sports Museum

The Sports Museum features memorabilia, artifacts, and photos. See the displays and hear about Boston’s pro teams, past and present. The Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, New England Patriots, and New England Revolution share much of this athletic spotlight. 

 

Museum of Science

You’ll experience science and technology in hands-on exhibits that feature all facets of science. While you are there, visit the Imax theater and planetarium.   

 

Harvard Museum of Natural History

Created with the entire family in mind, enjoy the best of life and earth science in bright and engaging multimedia exhibits.   

 

Lars Anderson Auto Museum

This museum is located in the original carriage house and features America’s oldest car collection, complete with gorgeous skyline views and a public ice skating rink during the winter. 

 

John F. Kennedy Library and Museum

In memory of the 35th American president, this museum presents multimedia exhibits about John F. Kennedy’s life and presidency.

 

Historic House Museums

These historical house museums span several centuries of Boston life and can be seen during guided tours. You’ll want to check out the 17th, 18th, and 19th-century homes of Boston’s most prominent citizens.   

 

USS Constitution

The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. Nicknamed “Old Ironsides” after repelling British cannonballs in the War of 1812 is popular with all young and old! 

 

This is just a sampling of the wonderful museums Boston has to offer. Whether you are visiting for the day or longer, you’ll surely find a venue that everyone will enjoy!

The Boston area has an amazing amount of neighborhoods packed into a dense area. Each district has its own distinct flavor and flair. You’ll want to make the most of your time when you visit. Here’s a guide to help you plan your time.  

 

Mattapan

Dating from the 1600s, Mattapan was home to the Mattahunt Tribe. Today, it is a neighborhood populated with a large African-American and Caribbean community. It has also become an incubator for green living projects.

 

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is frequently described as a suburban neighborhood, with the Neponset River cutting through its center. There are also many local shops and restaurants along the main streets.

 

Back Bay

One of the most beautiful parts of the city is Back Bay. The charming neighborhood has seen building facades sketched onto greeting cards all around Boston’s gift shops. Of course, you’ll also find Newbury Street, which is Boston’s upscale shopping area. 

 

Allston

A popular living area for college students is the neighborhood of Allston. You’ll want to visit this area near the end of August / early September to view the famous “Allston Christmas.” Unfortunately, this is when most leases are up, and students who are moving often put furniture and other belongings that are no longer needed out on the curb for anyone to take freely.

 

West End

This small, under-represented neighborhood shows the intersection of old and new Boston. Here you’ll find the TD Garden and Massachusetts General Hospital.

 

Brighton

Sitting adjacent to Allston is Brighton, where many college students and young professionals live. In addition, this area is home to Boston College and Chestnut Hill Reservoir.  

 

Mission Hill

Mission Hill provides living space for students and young families for those working in the Longwood Medical Area. Another place of interest is the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

 

Charlestown

Historically, Charlestown’s roots are with Irish immigrants who helped to form the neighborhood. This unique community is home to the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution.

 

Roslindale

Also known as the “garden suburb,” Roslindale is home to the Arnold Arboretum, a 265-acre park. Additionally, you can still look at the colonial houses that have been turned into apartments.

 

Bay Village

Once a landfill is now one of Boston’s most desirable and inviting areas. Bay Village is almost like a forgotten treasure between the South End, the theater district, and Chinatown. It’s the perfect central location for getting around downtown.  

 

Chinatown – Leather District

Once tidal flats, this area has been transformed into a neighborhood hosting residences, shops, and restaurants. It’s also the hub for Chinese culture and commerce. In addition, the area is home to the beginning of the Rose Kennedy Greenway.  

 

South Boston

South Boston is a working-class neighborhood that houses multiple industries. The area is transitioning into a hotspot for restaurants, hotels, and bars. In the Seaport District, partake in the waterfront and the skyline views of downtown or visit the nearby beaches and parks.   

 

Dorchester

Dorchester is the largest and most diverse Boston neighborhood. It’s also home to Franklin Park, where you can find a golf course, 500+ acres of green space, and a zoo. In addition, Dorchester is home to City Hall Plaza and the Freedom Trail.  

 

Beacon Hill

A visit to Beacon Hill will practically transport you back in time. A stroll down narrow streets gives visitors views of charming brick apartments. Residents do a fantastic job of maintaining quaint gardens and lovely holiday decorations. Also, the Massachusetts State House sits on top of Beacon Hill.

 

East Boston

Home to Logan International Airport, it’s also the ideal place to view the city skyline. Visit this neighborhood via the Blue Line subway or take a ferry boat for the perfect picturesque trip across the harbor.

 

West Roxbury

West Roxbury is a suburban community with tree-lined streets and an excellent residential neighborhood. Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau are among their former visitors. 

 

Fenway-Kenmore

Home to Fenway Park, visitors will find many bars and restaurants in the area, as well as new skyscrapers and development. Check out Kenmore Square, the Back Bay Fens, the Museum of Fine Arts, and Symphony Hall.

 

North End

North End is one of the most visited neighborhoods in Boston. Sites such as Paul Revere’s house and European dining are all draws to this area of town!   

 

Jamaica Plain

Jamaica Plain is filled with green spaces and local businesses. The Emerald Necklace, Franklin Park, and Jamaica Pond surround the neighborhood and give it the perfect place for a picturesque stroll. Many communal events are hosted here, including local outdoor music festivals and spring fairs.

 

Roxbury

Previously known as a farm community, Roxbury is a hilly neighborhood. However, efforts at Dudley Square are bringing new life into the area.

 

South End

The South End is a popular area for young professionals, families, and the LGBTQ community. The high-end restaurants attract foodies, and rows of brownstones offer views of gorgeous houses, flower boxes, and gaslight street lamps. Nostalgia at its finest!

Now that you are equipped with a quick guide to Boston’s neighborhoods, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit and have an unforgettable experience in the process!

Boston packs a punch when it comes to hosting a vibrant Theater District. Bostonians and visitors can enjoy a night out and many different venues across the area. There is something for every style and taste in live entertainment.   

 

Shubert Theater

The Shubert dates back to 1910 and hosts classic and contemporary theater, musicals, concerts by musical artists, and comedy shows. Because of its beautiful architectural significance, the Shubert was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. 

 

Emerson Colonial Theater

This ornate theater has hand-painted murals in the lobby and mosaic flooring. The Emerson Colonial Theater has a rich past for pre-Broadway premieres of musicals that became classics.  

 

Lyric Stage Company of Boston

The Lyric Stage is an intimate theater with seating that allows audience members to be immersed in the performance. Founded in 1974, The Lyric Stage Company is Boston’s oldest theater company.  

 

The Wilbur Theater

The Wilbur architecturally replicates a Beacon Hill mansion in style but honors Boston as an artistic center. The theater hosts national comedy and musical acts as an entertainment venue for the city.

 

Cutler Majestic Theater

Presently part of Emerson College’s campus, this venue is the second oldest in the Theater District. Opera, dance, and theater can be seen here. The theater itself is a member of the National League of Historic American Theaters and a Boston Historic Landmark.

 

Boston Opera House

The Boston Ballet calls The Opera House its home venue and is renowned for its rendition of The Nutcracker.  The venue also features top Broadway musicals and big-name musical artists.  

 

American Repertory Theater

A.R.T. is the home of Harvard University’s Loeb Drama Center and the American Repertory Theater. While a classroom extension, it has a focus on modern and experimental works.  

 

Huntington Avenue Theater

Originally constructed as America’s first civic playhouse, it has been transformed into an art-house cinema and returned to a theater once again. Productions at the Huntington theater often go on to the Broadway stage!   

 

Paramount Center

The Paramount Center played an essential part in the area’s revitalization. With its’ glowing marquee, the Paramount now hosts U.S. premieres, international film festivals, and student performances.

 

Boston Center for the Arts

The Boston Center for the Arts is a multi-format venue home to several theater groups. In addition, the BCA serves as an incubator for budding playwrights and talent.  

 

Wang Theater

The Wang is the largest and most grand performance space in the Boston Theater District. The Wang Theater is part of the Boch Center and currently hosts theater, comedy, and musical performances.

 

Armed with knowledge, you can enjoy your favorite live entertainment on your next visit to Boston. So check out a show or two and enjoy the rich heritage of this grand city!

Did you know Boston’s professional sports teams have won an astounding 12 championships that have given Boston the nickname “City of Champions”. Proudly representing this splendid city are the Red Sox, Celtics, Bruins, New England Patriots, and New England Revolution, just to name a few.

 

Sporting Arenas in Boston

Sports are a significant part of Boston’s culture, not only for the fan base but also for historical venues. Fenway Park is the home of the Red Sox and the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. Close in the vicinity is Matthews Arena, the world’s oldest existing indoor multi-sports facility. And Gillette Stadium is owned by both The Patriots and Major Soccer League’s Revolution.   

 

Football in Boston

The origin of American football is thought to be first played by the Oneida Football Club. From then until now, the game has continued to grow into a modern-day phenomenon. Boston’s football team, the New England Patriots, currently play at Gillette Stadium. Hall of Famers include Andre Tippett, Bill Parcells, Curtis Martin, John Hannah, and Junior Seau.

 

Basketball in Boston

The Boston Celtics were one of the founding members of the Basketball Association of America. The Celtics have won more Championships than any other NBA team. Celtics Basketball Hall of Fame members include Dave Cowens, Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, John Havlicek, Sam Jones, Larry Bird, and Nate Archibald.

 

Baseball in Boston

The Boston Red Sox is one of the founding members of the American League of Major League Baseball. And one of the few teams to still play in their original city. They play their home games at Fenway Park, which is the oldest sports arena in active use in the United States. Legendary players include Babe Ruth, Cy Young, Jim Rice, Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, Carlton Fisk, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Pedro Martínez, and David Ortiz.

 

Soccer in Boston

According to American legend, the Pilgrims observed “pasuckuakohowog,” a form of soccer played by the Native Americans along the coast. Fast forward to the present, and the New England Revolution plays modern-day soccer at the Gillette Stadium. The club’s namesake comes from the region’s involvement in the American Revolutionary War, dating from 1775 to 1783.  

 

Ice Hockey in Boston

The Bruins were the first American member of the National Hockey League and have won an impressive six Stanley Cups!  Hall of Fame players Bobby Orr, Milt Schmidt, Eddie Shore, and Raymond Bourque have all played for the Bruins.

 

Rugby in Boston

Boston is home to numerous amateur, college, and semi-professional Rugby teams and has a strong following. The city has three teams in the Rugby Super League: the Boston Irish Wolfhounds, Mystic River Rugby Club, and Boston RFC.  

 

Other Sports Teams in Boston

Boston is also home to three professional lacrosse teams: the Boston Cannons, Boston Blazers, and Boston Storm.  In addition, the Boston Derby Dames is Boston’s first all-female flat-track roller derby league, which was formed in May 2005.  

 

Boston has a team for you to enjoy, whether football, baseball, or basketball. Or, discover a new team or sport to cheer on when you visit this historical city!

Visiting Boston is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! After seeing the historical sites, museums, and sporting events, you should also take some time to enjoy the fabulous shopping areas to fit every budget. Here is a list of a few to get you started! 

 

Shopping In Boston

 

Mall At Chestnut Hill

 

The Mall at Chestnut Hill is just the proper blending of trendy with sophisticated boutiques. After finishing shopping, enjoy a respite at one of the many local eateries.

 

Newbury Street

 

Boston’s Newbury Street has a wide variety of shopping options to meet all tastes and styles. Besides the abundance of retail stores, there are also some great restaurants to check out to help give you fuel to complete your day!    

 

Harvard Square

 

Enjoy walking through the heart of Cambridge when you visit Harvard Square. As one of the best shopping spots in Boston, you are treated to views of elegance in designer stores and have a variety of dining options during your spree.   

 

Prudential Centre

 

Another amazing spot for shopping in Boston is in the Prudential Centre. Enjoy the unconventional layout of stores while experiencing all the Centre has to offer, from activities to dining. You’ll be glad you visited one of the most popular malls on the East Coast!  

 

Copley Place Mall

 

Are you looking for high-end brands and shops? Then the Copley Place Mall should be on your list of destinations. Balenciaga, Fendi, Louis Vitton, Gucci, and more are calling your name to this eye-catching and exclusive mall.   

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

 

The Faneuil Hall Marketplace is one of the oldest marketplaces in the Boston area. This shopping area is packed with history, dining, shopping, fun activities, and shopping from antiques to modern. Faneuil Hall Marketplace is one stop you have to make!  

 

Downtown Crossing

 

For those on a tight budget, Downtown Crossing is just the place for you. You’ll surely find the perfect sale with various merchandise and apparel shops. There are also fantastic dining options to choose from. It’s also a great area to stroll and people-watch. 

 

Cambridge Side Galleria

 

Boasting as the greatest Boston outlet shopping mall, the multi-leveled Cambridgeside Galleria is where you can find great shopping and enjoy great dining.

 

North End

 

Enjoy Boston charm and sites while you shop for classy apparel, unique gifts, artwork, and home furnishings. North End is considered a mix and match of all things Boston.  

 

So no matter the budget or style, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for in one of Boston’s many shopping areas. Be sure to take time to enjoy the sights and sounds of this amazing city as you shop to you drop!

 

Boston, Massachusetts, was founded by English Puritans who were fleeing religious persecution in 1603. Amazingly, this makes Boston one of the oldest cities in the US. Just 33 years later, Harvard, the first college in the New World, was founded in 1636. By the late 1600s, the new colonies of England were united under the Dominion of New England. Governed by Sir Edmund Andros, many citizens of Boston became unhappy with his harsh and unfair method of rule. Due to the unbearable nature of laws and taxation, political uprisings began to crop up.    

 

As Boston grew, its people wanted to escape the restrictive British rule. In 1746, England’s oppression of the colonists reached an all-time high with the issuing of the Stamp Act. This act required colonists to pay tax on every piece of paper they printed. This increased the unrest amongst the colonists because this tax only benefited the British military. As the unrest grew and Bostonians began to riot, five people lost their lives in the Boston Massacre of 1770. The loss of lives resulted in the Boston Tea Party, where expensive British tea was dumped into the Boston Harbor in the dead of night.

 

This further sparked tensions between the New Englanders and Britain and spread to the other colonies. On April 19, 1775, the Revolutionary War began. And in 1776, the United States declared its freedom from England after the founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. Then on February 6, 1788, Massachusetts became the 6th state of the United States. Other states quickly followed suit and strengthened America’s resolve to be free.  

 

Fast forward to the present-day Boston. Currently, this capital of Massachusetts draws a large number of tourists for both history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. With its theater district, it’s no wonder visitors flock to see plays, ballets, and performances. Sports fans come in droves to watch a variety of athletics; football, baseball, basketball, soccer, rugby, and ice hockey. Young and old alike enjoy the rich cultural atmosphere of a wide variety of museums, historical tours, dining, and shopping experiences. What better place to see our humble beginnings as a nation grow into beautiful views of skylines, harbors, wildlife, and cultural venues?  

 

Modern-day Boston has something for everyone, from its many neighborhoods, each with its own flavor and flare, to the many higher education institutions in and around the city. 

Are you visiting Boston? Whether you’re a native or a tourist, here are some sites you need to see! Experience Boston’s unique History and see what makes Boston so special.

 

Top Attractions to See in Boston

 

Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is Boston’s most historic neighborhood, home to the Freedom Trail and Black Heritage Trail sites and plenty of other places to explore, such as top boutiques and restaurants. 

 

Fenway Park

Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox, is America’s smallest and oldest ballpark. You must attend a Red Sox game for a first-hand experience of Boston’s passion for sports.  

Or take in one of the summer concerts or winter events.  

 

Boston’s Top Waterfront Attractions

Boston offers a wide variety of parks, river and harbor cruises, hotels, and restaurants. Check out the Charles River and the Esplanade, downtown waterfront and harbor cruises, South Boston Waterfront, Boston Harbor Islands, and Castle Island. 

 

Museum of Fine Arts

Visiting Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts can keep you busy all day. Containing hundreds of galleries filled with treasures dating from the ancient world to contemporary art.

 

Tea Party Ships & Museum

The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, with costumed actors, and interactive displays, give visitors an immersive experience surrounding the events leading up to the American Revolution.  

 

Freedom Trail

Walk through History on the Freedom Trail! View 16 sites on a 2 1/2 mile trail instrumental to American History, our freedom, and liberty. From the trail, see the USS Constitution and the historic Boston neighborhoods of Charlestown, North End, and Beacon Hill.   

Public Garden 

Are you enthralled with the children’s classic, Make Way for Ducklings? Then, come visit the Public Garden, one of the most beautiful all-season spots in Boston. Here you’ll find the Ducklings statues in Robert McCloskey’s children’s book. Additionally, enjoy a picnic lunch; bring a frisbee or just a book. Whatever you choose, you’ll enjoy this perfect city oasis. 

 

Boston’s Theater District

Boston’s Theater District is filled with restored historic theaters where you can choose from various shows. Broadway, Boston Ballet performances, comedy, and kids’ shows are just a few.

 

Newbury Street Shopping, Dining, & Architecture

Check out the eight blocks of Newbury Street for the best shopping and dining. You’ll also enjoy the amazing architecture in this exclusive neighborhood.   

 

New England Aquarium

Located on Boston’s downtown waterfront, the New England Aquarium immerses you in an underwater world where you can experience sea life. 

 

Spend a day or more exploring the exciting Boston attractions and see why this is a one-of-a-kind, historical, and modern city with so much to do!

Boston is known as the capital of Massachusetts and a key site in the American Revolution. People come from all over to tour historical sites and enjoy the city’s culture. But did you know that students come to this city for higher learning opportunities? So you can be more educated, here is a listing of Boston and surrounding areas colleges!  

 

Colleges in Boston

 

Suffolk University

Located in the heart of downtown Suffolk University is a private Boston university. One of the bonuses of living and learning in the city is access to abundant career opportunities, including internships and job placements.    

 

Brandeis University    

Brandeis University is one of the youngest US private research institutions besides the Charles River. This university encourages students to stay involved in urban culture and has a solid liberal arts focus.

 

Simmons University

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston’s Fenway neighborhood. It was initially established in 1899 to help women in the workplace.  

 

Boston College   

Boston College is a private research institution situated in Chestnut Hill, stretching over 130 acres, offering an inclusive community culture. The term AHANA is used in place of “minority students,” referring to African-American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American-students. The college is very selective, accepting only 26 percent of applicants.   

 

Northeastern University  

Northeastern University is an experiential research institution focused on global and contemporary issues. Located beside the Museum of Fine Arts, Northeastern is an urban university surrounded by trees and common grassy areas. There’s also a strong focus on community. Since 2006, Northeastern students have completed over one million hours of community service in the surrounding area. 

 

University of Massachusetts, Boston   

Located on a scenic waterfront campus, the University of Massachusetts is a public research university committed to urban and global engagement with a primary focus on natural and social science. 

 

Tufts University    

Approximately five miles northwest of Boston is the campus of Tufts University. Composed of undergraduate and postgraduate students, the college is home to health science programs. The campus lies within Boston’s theater, finance, and commercial districts.   

 

Harvard University 

Harvard University is the US’s oldest institute of higher learning. Similarly to MIT, Harvard is located in Cambridge. The college offers hundreds of courses with students learning in world-class laboratories and research centers. Harvard’s student-to-faculty ratio is 7:1, giving students a valuable and attentive learning environment. Famous alums include Ralph Waldo Emerson, John F. Kennedy, Al Gore, Bill Gates, and Barack Obama.

 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)   

Facing Boston across the Charles River lies the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). MIT strongly focuses on science and technology fields, plus innovation and leadership. Consequently, admission is highly competitive, with less than ten percent of applications accepted annually.  

 

Boston University  

Boston University is a private research university that’s located on the banks of the Charles River. There are over 300 programs to choose from and a first-rate view of the city’s skyline from the residence halls. Boston University’s alums include seven Nobel Laureates, six Academy Award winners, and 35 Pulitzer Prize winners!    

 

With all the higher education offerings in Boston, it’s no wonder that living in this area is highly sought after. Add the history, sports, and entertainment choices to it, and you have a winning combination!

Boston has some of the most eclectic and exquisite dining of any major city. If you are visiting this historical city or are fortunate to live here full time, here are some restaurants you must try on your next night out!

 

Dining in Boston

 

Mooncusser

Located in Bay Village, Mooncusser uniquely offers four-course tasting menus. The selection is new each month, allowing a fresh infusion of taste to be discovered with each visit. And the dining room view is just as fantastic as the food!   

 

Faccia Brutta

This Italian-inspired restaurant is located in Back Bay. Their seafood-inspired menu utilizes all fresh ingredients, much of which comes from the Copley Square Farmers Market.  

 

Yvonne’s

Located in downtown Boston, Yvonne’s has hung on to the Speakeasy vibe with their 19th-century mahogany bar. Serving inventive small plates include favorites such as baked oysters and popcorn Brulee.  

 

O Ya

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind dining experience at O Ya. This Japanese-influenced restaurant is one of the best in New England. Choose from sushi, omakase, bluefin tuna, or smoked salmon sashimi. 

 

Chickadee

Named after the Massachusetts state bird, Chickadee is a Mediterranean-influenced delight. Featuring fresh ingredients from local farms, partake in such flavorful entrees as tzatziki, pitas, fried hake, clams with green harissa, and gnocchi with smoked chestnuts.    

 

Hunter’s Kitchen and Bar

This Southern-style restaurant has a hunting theme complete with decor. Feast on crispy fried chicken atop cheddar waffles, mouth-watering brisket, and shrimp with smoky grits. Don’t forget to leave room for a slice of pie in season. You’ll definitely leave feeling full and satisfied!   

Deuxave

Enjoy champagne and caviar, spiced duck breast, and French onion soup in the ultra-glamorous, chandelier-lit dining room of Deuxave. Complement your meal with more than a dozen wine options by the glass in this Back Bay contemporary French restaurant. 

 

Rare Steakhouse

Located in the Encore Boston Harbor area, Rare Steakhouse is the only place in New England to dine on certified Kobe beef from the Japanese Wagyu program. Also featured at this exquisite restaurant are domestic beef, locally farmed produce, dairy, and freshly caught seafood. Other memorable dishes are the two-pounder loaded baked potato and the Surf & Turf for two.   

 

Whatever your stomach desires, Boston is the place for delicious and unique dining experiences both in taste and ambiance. So after a day of sightseeing or just getting out of the house, treat yourself to the best Boston has to offer!

Everyone knows getting fresh air, sunshine, and exercise are all good for you. But, while hardcore outdoors enthusiasts may take to the mountains, city dwellers can get their outdoor fix without going far. Boston has many hiking options for your recreational needs.  

 

Breakheart Reservation

This state park has numerous trails that range from easy to challenging. Through dense forests, these trails are perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Enjoy the seven hills within the park that have views of New Hampshire and central Massachusetts. Additionally, follow the trails along the Saugus River, which cuts through the park.

 

World’s End

At only 250 acres, this relatively small but lush nature preserve is just 15 miles outside of Boston. This preserve overlooks Hingham Harbor with 4.5 miles of trails rated easy to moderate in difficulty waiting to be explored. Enjoy hiking along the hills and shoreline past marshes. Make sure to bring your binoculars to catch glimpses of the birds who live in this forested area.  

 

Battle Road Trail

This easy trail is perfect for those wanting to know more about the history of Boston. A five-mile, level path connects the historical sites of Meriam’s Corner in Concord to the eastern boundary of Minute Man National Historic Park in Lexington. Follows the Minutemen route to the battle at Concord Bridge, where the British were prevented from seizing the Colonists’ weapons. Along the trail, there are informative markers and a presentation at the visitor center to provide visitors with more information.

 

Blue Hills Reservation

Sitting only a few minutes from Boston is a 7,000-acre reservation with 125 miles of impressive hiking trails. Venture to the top of Great Blue Hill and treat yourself to the view of the skyline. In winter, this area can be enjoyed by low-key skiers.   

 

Middlesex Fells Reservation

In the suburb of Stoneham, sitting just north of Boston is a 2,500-acre state park. This reservation features more than 100 miles of trails for all levels. The most popular and most difficult is the Skyline Trail. On this trail, visitors will enjoy seven miles of challenging terrain that passes over hills, through wooded forests, and around breathtaking lakes. For the gorgeous views, make sure to climb the observation tower!  

 

Wachusett Mountain State Reservation

In winter, Wachusett Mountain is a popular skiing destination. However, this mountain is perfect for hiking when not covered in snow, as it is surrounded by old-growth forests, ponds, streams, and a raised bog. With 17 miles of trails to explore, the most popular being the 2.6-mile-long Harrington Trail. On a clear day, you can see the Boston skyline and New Hampshire’s Mt. Monadnock at the peak.   

 

Hopkinton State Park

Hopkinton State Park is the perfect place for many outdoor activities. Containing several trails running through 1,500 acres of forest, there are paths for hikers of all levels and even some for horseback riders. Then, during the hot summer months, cool off in the reservoir.   

 

Mount Misery

Wandering these hills’ trails will give you sights of native wildlife, including birds, deer, and squirrels. Enjoy views of the Sudbury River and Fairhaven Bay from the top.   

 

No matter your fitness level or time to spare, all Bostonians and visitors can experience the fresh air and the great outdoors, complete with gorgeous sites, wildlife, and maybe some history thrown in!