5 Lesser Known Places in Boston MA
Boston, the capital and largest city of Massachusetts, is the cultural and economic center of New England. This historic city is also a popular vacation destination, offering visitors an abundance of history, music, dining and attractions that draw in tourists from around the country. While the most well-known points of interest are definitely worth visiting, there is much more to experience in this lively metropolis. Some of the lesser known places in boston ma provide totally unique and unforgettable experiences.
Boston is a compact city with a jumble of streets that can make getting around easy if you know where you’re going. The best way to get around is on foot, as most of the major landmarks are within walking distance from each other and parking is difficult. However, there are a variety of public transportation options available to visitors including the subway and buses.
The iconic Copley Square is named after the American portraitist John Singleton Copley and features a bronze statue of the artist. It is the historic focal point of this bustling commercial area, which includes Boylston Street with its shops and attractions and Newbury Street with its upscale boutiques in quaint 19th century townhouses.
A trip to the New England Aquarium is a must for locals and visitors alike, with its giant coral reef and colorful tropical fish. Kids will love interacting with penguins and seals, while adults can enjoy behind-the-scenes tours of the facility. The museum, which is located on Boston’s downtown waterfront, is one of the most popular attractions in the city.
This landmark is home to a remarkable collection of paintings, sculptures and tapestries from all over the world. Isabella Stewart Gardner founded the museum in 1903 after her own home became too small to hold her growing collection of art. Gardner’s design was inspired by the 15th-century Venetian palazzo style, and the museum still features three floors of galleries surrounding a garden courtyard.
Located at the corner of School and Washington Streets, this historical building was once an apothecary shop and residence. In the 19th century, it was a literary center as authors such as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne brought their manuscripts to be published here. It is now the Globe Corner Bookstore and specializes in New England travel literature.
This neighborhood is one of the most popular places to live in the city and is full of charming restaurants, bars and boutiques. The streets are lined with Federal-period mansions, gas lights and cobblestone alleys, and a visit here is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
During your visit, try to eat some of the city’s signature foods. A must-try is the famous Boston baked beans, which are made with molasses and are a popular snack throughout the city. You should also check out the Old Corner Bookstore, which was built in 1718 and was once a gathering place for local authors.
