Below are tips, advice and fun facts from a local Bostonian.
Most people don’t have an accent. Unless a person grew up (and stayed) in towns like Lynn or Revere, or deep in South Boston/Dorchester, r’s will be pronounced.
It’s a college city. There are 35 colleges and universities in Boston so students make up a large percentage of the population, especially during the school year. It’s usually a younger crowd at the bars!
South Boston or “Southie” is often depicted as mob central thanks to movies like the Departed and Black Mass. I’ve had out-of-town friends who request a visit to that scene. Now South Boston is filled with young adults, trendy bars and recently renovated townhouses.
Don’t rent a car. Instead walk or take advantage of the T, which is the oldest subway system in the country and mostly reliable.
Bostonians love sports. We take great pride in our city, nicknamed “Title Town.” The bars will play the Sox, Bruins, Celtics, Patriots or local college games, loud and proud.
Go to a game at Fenway! Even if you’re not a Sox fan, the ballpark is an iconic landmark and an enjoyable experience- I promise!
Don’t call it Beantown.
Boston may be a bit more casual than NYC or LA, but we’ve got all the boutiques and designer stores. Newbury Street and Copley Place are a good start.
History is all over the place! Schools, cemeteries, buildings, parks and bars – it’s part of the character and charm of Boston. My favorite: the Boston Public Library is 100% worth a visit.
The freedom trail IS worth doing. Whether with an eccentric guide or on your own, this trail hits not only the historic attractions, but some popular foodie spots and fantastic views.
Boston has world-class museums. The MFA has one of the most comprehensive collections in the world, the Museum of Science is a top-notch science and technology institution and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is both unique and fascinating.
Seafood doesn’t get any better: have all of the lobster rolls, oysters and clam chowder. Tip: know the difference between hot buttered and cold lobster rolls – and order both if you can’t decide!
Shacks and pubs are popular, but foodies will be thrilled with the upscale and award-winning restaurants that have populated the city in recent years. Make reservations ahead of time for dinner!
Though Dunkin Donuts will always be the OG, cafes are increasing in popularity – Flour and Tatte’s for example.
Seasons make all the difference here. It gets really cold in the winter. Fall and spring are the most beautiful times in the city, but the weather can go one way or the other. New Englanders are hearty and will take advantage of any weather over 60 degrees. This is also why roofdecks and patios are packed between April and October. Visitors should bring layers no matter what time of year!
Summer weekends will be filled with tourists. Boston residents either head to the North Shore, South Shore or the Cape and Islands. It’s not uncommon to be a “north or south shore person.”
There’s no happy hour and the bars close early (~1:30am). Darn those puritan laws! I believe this also explains why Bostonians go “all out” on St. Patrick’s Day, the Head of the Charles and the Boston Marathon – which turns into a citywide party.
Every neighborhood has a distinctive feel so be sure to explore at least a few! The North End has a great Italian vibe, the Back Bay homes are beautiful, the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill and the artist studios in the South End are all worth seeing!
Cambridge feels like another world. Crossing the river is an excursion for residents.
Bostonians love beer. It started with Harpoon and Sam Adams, but there are craft breweries and summer beer gardens sprinkled throughout the city now.
There are plenty of green spaces in Boston including the Greenway, Christopher Columbus Park, the Commonwealth Mall, Charles River Esplanade and the Harborwalk. Tip: Know the difference between the Boston Public Garden and the Common which is separated by Charles Street.
Experience the city via the water during the warmer months! Take a ferry to the Harbor Islands, kayak down the Charles River or go on a whale watching cruise.
There are so many other destinations within reach! Check out this 10 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary or take the short drive to Cape Cod or Newport.
