Back Bay-Beacon Hill Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat and stay in Back Bay-Beacon Hill with our comprehensive travel guide.


Back Bay-Beacon Hill Travel Guide

Back Bay-Beacon Hill is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Boston, offering visitors a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury. This neighborhood is located in Greater Boston, Eastern Massachusetts, known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant cultural events, and fantastic dining scene. Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about experiencing the best of Back Bay-Beacon Hill.

List of Places to Visit in Back Bay-Beacon Hill

There are plenty of places to see and things to do in Back Bay-Beacon Hill. Here are some of our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Boston Public Library
  • The Massachusetts State House
  • The Gibson House Museum
  • The Mary Baker Eddy Library
  • The Commonwealth Museum

Natural Attractions of Back Bay-Beacon Hill: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Charles River Esplanade
  • The Public Garden
  • The Boston Common
  • The Hatch Memorial Shell
  • Fenway Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Back Bay-Beacon Hill

  • Emerald Necklace
  • The Freedom Trail
  • Charles River Bike Path

Best Things to Do in Back Bay-Beacon Hill: Activities and Tours

  • Take a walking tour of the Freedom Trail.
  • Spend an evening at the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
  • Explore the vintage shops and boutiques along Newbury Street.
  • Visit the Boston Athenaeum.
  • Experience a cooking class at The Kitchen at Boston Public Market.

Week-Long Itinerary for Back Bay-Beacon Hill

Day 1: The Freedom Trail and a Red Sox Game at Fenway Park. Day 2: The Boston Public Library and the Massachusetts State House. Day 3: The Public Garden, the Gibson House Museum and The Mary Baker Eddy Library. Day 4: Shopping at Copley Place, and the Boston Spa. Day 5: Pop into the Boston Athenaeum, enjoy lunch in Beacon Hill. Day 6: The Charles River Esplanade, Storrow Drive and Hatch Memorial Shell. Day 7: The New England Aquarium, the Whale Watch and dinner in the North End.

Food and Drink Scene of Back Bay-Beacon Hill

Back Bay-Beacon Hill offers a diverse dining scene, featuring some of the best food and drink from around the world.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll at Luke’s Lobster
  • Chowda at Boston Chowda Co.
  • Fried Clams at Neptune Oyster
  • Cannoli at Mike’s Pastry

Local Beverages

  • Samuel Adams Boston Lager
  • Harpoon IPA
  • Mystic Brewery Vinland Two
  • Trillium Brewing Company Pot and Kettle

Where to Stay in Back Bay-Beacon Hill: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Four Seasons Hotel Boston
  • The Eliot Hotel
  • Beacon Hill Hotel & Bistro
  • The Lenox Hotel
  • The Charlesmark Hotel

What to Buy in Back Bay-Beacon Hill: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Paul Revere Charlestown Navy Yard Shipyard
  • Blackbird Doughnuts
  • Aeronaut Brewing Company Maverick Axes
  • Harpoon Brewery Pint Glass
  • Trillium Brewing Company Shirt

Local Culture and Customs of Back Bay-Beacon Hill

  • Do not jaywalk.
  • Be polite to strangers.
  • Tipping 15-20% is customary.

Best Time to Visit Back Bay-Beacon Hill

The best time to visit Back Bay-Beacon Hill is between April and October, when the weather is mild, and the city is filled with outdoor festivals, street performers, and public gatherings. The Sidewalk Sale on Newbury Street is held in August. The Beacon Hill Holiday Stroll happens in December.

Do’s and Don’ts of Back Bay-Beacon Hill

Do:

  • Visit the public parks and gardens.
  • Explore the historic neighborhoods and buildings.
  • Take a scenic stroll through Beacon Hill.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage public property.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Overindulge in the local cuisine and beer culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Back Bay-Beacon Hill

Back Bay-Beacon Hill is a relatively safe neighborhood. However, like any major city in the US, it is important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, particularly at night. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas, and do not leave valuables visible in your car.

Health in Back Bay-Beacon Hill

Back Bay-Beacon Hill has some of the best medical facilities in the US, including world-renowned hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Getting to Back Bay-Beacon Hill: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Back Bay-Beacon Hill is easy, thanks to the city’s excellent public transportation system.

  • Logan International Airport
  • Back Bay Station
  • South Station Bus Terminal and Subway station
  • Haymarket Subway station

How to Get Around in Back Bay-Beacon Hill

  • Take a leisurely stroll on the picturesque streets.
  • Rent a bicycle or take a guided bike tour.
  • Ride aboard Boston’s famous Duck Tour.

Where to Go Next from Back Bay-Beacon Hill: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cambridge and Harvard Square
  • Salem, Massachusetts
  • Rhode Island
  • The Berkshires

Conclusion

Back Bay-Beacon Hill is a fascinating destination in Boston, with a rich history, spectacular architecture, and plenty of exciting things to do and see. Whether you’re on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, this charming neighborhood is sure to capture your heart.

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