Quincy Travel Guide

A complete travel guide for Quincy, including places to visit, food, accommodation, culture, and safety information.


Introduction to Quincy

Quincy, Massachusetts, is a historic city located just south of Boston. Quincy is the birthplace of two U.S. Presidents, John Adams, and his son John Quincy Adams. It’s renowned for its rich history, beautiful parks, and local culture. Quincy perfectly combines the old and new and has become a popular destination for tourists who love architecture, history, and outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Quincy

If you’re looking for things to do in Quincy, this list will help you make the most out of your trip.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Adams National Historical Park - This park includes the homes of two U.S. Presidents, John Adams and John Quincy Adams. You can tour their homes and learn about their lives and work.
  2. Quincy Historical Society Museum - This museum features collections and exhibits that focus on Quincy’s rich history.
  3. United First Parish Church (The Church of the Presidents) - This church is where John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and their wives are buried.

Natural Attractions of Quincy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Blue Hills Reservation - This 7,000-acre reservation spans across several towns, including Quincy, and offers a wide range of recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, and skiing.
  2. Wollaston Beach - This 2-mile-long beach is perfect for swimming, biking, and other outdoor activities.
  3. Furnace Brook Parkway - This scenic parkway features beautiful vistas, picnic areas, and walking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Quincy

Quincy provides many beautiful and well-maintained hiking and biking trails. Here are three popular routes to consider:

  1. Blue Hills Skyline Trail - This popular hiking trail features stunning views of the Greater Boston area, and it’s perfect for intermediate hikers.
  2. Neponset River Trail - This easy biking route takes you through several towns, including Quincy. You can enjoy beautiful views of the Neponset River, rolling hills, and nature reserves along the way.
  3. Furnace Brook Parkway Trail - This easy walking trail takes you through a scenic parkway. It’s perfect for families and those who love a quiet stroll through nature.

Best Things to Do in Quincy: Activities and Tours

Quincy provides a wide range of activities and tours. Here are our top three suggestions:

  1. Marina Bay Harbor Tours - This tour takes you through the beautiful Marina Bay and canals, where you can see beautiful yachts and mansions.
  2. Niemeyer’s Motorcycle Rentals - Rent a motorcycle and explore Quincy and the surrounding areas.
  3. Quincy Market - Visit Quincy Market and explore the local shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quincy

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Quincy:

Day Activities
Day 1 Tour John Adams and John Quincy Adams’ homes at the Adams National Historical Park
Day 2 Take a tour of the United First Parish Church, visit the Quincy Historical Society Museum
Day 3 Visit Wollaston Beach and enjoy water sports activities
Day 4 Explore the Blue Hills Reservation
Day 5 Visit the Marina Bay and take a harbor tour
Day 6 Rent a motorcycle from Niemeyer’s and take a self-guided tour
Day 7 Visit Quincy Market and try local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Quincy

Quincy has an excellent food and drink scene that offers a wide variety of ethnic cuisines and ales. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Clam Chowder - A local specialty of the New England region. A creamy soup made from clams, potatoes, and other ingredients.
  2. Lobster Roll - A sandwich filled with chunks of lobster meat, celery, and mayo.
  3. Roast Beef Sandwich - Sliced roast beef on a bun, topped with cheese and onions.

Local Beverages

  1. Samuel Adams Beer - This non-alcoholic beer is proudly brewed in Boston and is famous worldwide.
  2. Cranberry Juice - Massachusetts is known for its cranberries, and the juice is a popular drink.

Where to Stay in Quincy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Quincy offers plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. Here are three top options:

  1. Boston Marriott Quincy - This four-star hotel provides luxurious rooms and is located near several popular tourist attractions.
  2. Best Western Adams Inn Quincy-Boston - This three-star hotel provides spacious rooms and shuttle services to local landmarks and shops.
  3. Atlas Pyramids Hotel - This budget-friendly hotel is located in Quincy Center and is perfect for those on a budget.

What to Buy in Quincy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Quincy offers various local products and souvenirs, including:

  1. John Adams/John Quincy Adams memorabilia- These items include clothing, books, and other souvenirs that showcase the history of Quincy.
  2. Quincy farmer’s market products - Locally sourced food, organic produce, and homemade condiments are available.
  3. Porcelain cranberry figurines - An excellent souvenir that highlights Massachusetts’s famous cranberries.

Local Culture and Customs of Quincy

Quincy residents pride themselves on their city’s rich history and traditions. Here are a few cultural customs of Quincy:

  1. Patriotic celebrations - Locals are proud of the national identities of two U.S. Presidents and celebrate accordingly.
  2. Sports craze - Quincy residents are fiercely passionate about their sports teams.
  3. Beaches and parks - Quincy residents love spending their leisure time outside, especially near the beach or parks.

Best Time to Visit Quincy

Quincy is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is lovely during this time, and many outdoor activities are available. However, Quincy is a beautiful place to visit during the fall when the leaves change color.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quincy

Here are some do’s and don’ts of Quincy to keep in mind:

Do:

  1. Do explore the museums and historical landmarks.
  2. Do spend time outdoors and enjoy the natural surroundings.
  3. Do try the local food and beverages.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t ignore the safety rules.
  2. Don’t disrespect the local culture and customs.
  3. Don’t litter or harm the environment.

Safety and Health

Quincy is a safe city for tourists. However, some basic precautions can make your trip safer:

Safety in Quincy

  1. Keep important documents and money in a safe place.
  2. Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night.
  3. Don’t show off valuables in public.

Health in Quincy

  1. Stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.
  2. Remember to pack your sunscreen to protect you from the sun.
  3. Bring mosquito repellent in the summer months.

Getting to Quincy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Quincy is easily accessible through several modes of transport. Here are some options:

Airports Near Quincy

  1. Boston Logan International Airport - The most common airport for tourists.
  2. T.F. Green Airport - Slightly further away but available.

Bus Stations Near Quincy

  1. Quincy Center Bus Station - Quincy’s central bus station with regional connections.
  2. South Station Bus Station - Major transportation hub of Boston.

Other Options

  1. Quincy is accessible by car via the Interstate 95 corridor.
  2. Ferries run to and from Boston regularly.

How to Get Around in Quincy

Quincy offers several transportation options. Here are some popular ones:

  1. Taxis and ride-sharing services - Such as Uber and Lyft are available throughout central Quincy and surrounding areas.
  2. MBTA Buses and Trains - Quincy is served by several MBTA buses and trains that run throughout the city and region.
  3. Bicycle rentals - Many local companies offer rental bicycles for exploring Quincy and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Quincy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Quincy serves as an excellent starting point for exploring other fantastic destinations nearby. Here are three recommendations:

  1. Newport, Rhode Island - A seaside city known for its mansions and beautiful beaches.
  2. Cape Cod - A stunning beach-lined peninsula and a popular tourist destination.
  3. Nantucket Island - A beautiful island filled with charming shops and restaurants.

Conclusion

Quincy, Massachusetts, is a city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Be sure to make the most out of your trip by visiting the museums, scenic parks, and trying local cuisine and drinks. The city’s convenient location makes it easy to visit other fantastic nearby destinations. Remember to stay safe and show respect for the local customs and culture.

Abigail and John Quincy Adams Abigail and John Quincy Adams The Adams Pew inside the United First Parish Church The Adams Pew inside the United First Parish Church