Boston City Guide

Rich American Revolution heritage and numerous oldest-in-the-country spots make Boston an amazing historic city to visit. Yet, today the city offers a lot more than simply sightseeing. Come to Boston to try out succulent lobster and seafood dishes, to spend a night on the town in stylish bars and restaurants, to see Broadway shows and last but not least, to stroll through some of the most scenic parks and streets in the country.

There are few American cities more steeped in history than Boston, so critical in the Revolution and the formation of our new nation. Yet Boston refuses to be defined only as a walking tour of the past. A cutting edge city, Boston juxtaposes history with excitement, high finance with quaint streets, and sports with the sea.

Famously called “a shining city on the hill,” by Massachusetts first governor John Winthrop, Boston was founded in 1629, the defensible port and hills providing favourable conditions for the city and new colony to flourish. With the early establishment of schools of higher learning such as Harvard and Boston Latin, scholars and students flocked to the growing city.

With the number of colleges and universities that have been built through the centuries in Boston, the city’s reputation has been cemented in American culture as a leader in education, ideas and policy. Much of the lauded policies and ideals of Boston’s leaders and scholars were essential in planning and instigating the American Revolution; the city is forever married to her part in fostering and establishing independence for the nation.

Large influxes of immigrants helped to shift and deepen the culture of Boston through the decades, most notably the large Irish population that settled here throughout the late 18^th to mid-19^th century. Irish-Americans advanced from being part of the labour class to business owners and politicians. The Kennedy family, so influential in American politics, hails from such roots. Cultural celebrations and ethnic neighbourhoods make up much of the character of New England’s biggest city, and the city still embraces any opportunity to throw a party.

Explore the cradle of liberty along the Freedom Trail

If you are going to Boston, you can’t help but run into history; the city teems with it. One of the best ways to follow in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers is to take the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile, red-lined route that leads you to 16 of the most historically significant sights in Boston. From Boston Commons to the Old State House, Paul Revere’s home, to the Bunker Hill Monument, and more. Each step reverberates with history and a sense of the weighty pride that Bostonians hold for the heroes of the Revolution.

Set sail

But history isn’t all Boston has to offer. The renowned bay is home to 34 islands, perfect for day trips and picnics. If you have your own boat, or charter one, you can take your time exploring the delights of the Boston Harbor Islands. If not, hop aboard the ferry to Georges or Spectacle Island and proceed from there.

Stroll through a university campus and into a bookstore

The grounds of Harvard are worth the visit just for the beauty and sense of the past; walk through the hallowed grounds of America’s oldest university. Founded in 1636, the buildings and campus are beautiful and have borne witness to so much of the nation’s past. After touring the campus, stop in at Harvard Square, home to numerous bookstores, cafes and boutiques. Buy a book, sit at one of the outdoor café tables and people watch; there is always something going on in the Square.

Catch a game

Boston is home to the Big Green Monster, also known as the back wall at Fenway Stadium, one of the oldest baseball stadiums in America. Cheer on the Red Sox while enjoying the ambience and energy of the home crowd. If basketball is more your style, catch a Celtics game at the TD Garden; or if football is the sport for you, catch the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Hockey fans will delight in watching the Boston Bruins, one of the most storied teams in the NHL, take on opponents when they play home games at the TD Garden. There are also collegiate games playing throughout the school year, as well as sailing regattas and marathons. Boston is a city that loves its sports!

Dining delights

With the bay to the east and north and rich farmland a quick drive away, Boston’s chefs delight in preparing the freshest cuisine for their patrons. Whether you want to go traditional and have that lobster roll or bowl of New England clam chowder or try one of the chic restaurants specializing in contemporary cuisine, Boston has the menu to satisfy.

Where to Stay

Whether looking for a luxury hotel room, a cozy apartment rental, or quaint bed and breakfast, the perfect vacation accommodation is waiting in Boston. World Escape's expert and friendly service will help you as you decide just where to stay (Historic district? Near shopping? View of the bay?) and at the price you want to pay. Select your vacation rental today!

Boston Vacation Rentals

Whether you travel on business or for leisure, a comfortable and relaxing stay guarantees a good experience. Our Boston vacation apartments can serve any needs and desires. Mod-conned flats with internet access provide business travellers with unmatched comfort and convenience, while characterful apartments outfitted with a variety of homey comforts can make any casual vacation or special occasion memorable.

To make the most of your stay you can book accommodation in the most attractive parts of town. Stay in Back Bay and you can shop till you drop. The area is brimming with shopping outlets for every taste and budget. Rent a Boston vacation apartment in North End and you can sample dishes at dozens of restaurants in Little Italy, browse at the numerous stylish boutiques and tour the local galleries.

No visit to Boston is complete without learning a bit about the great history of this city. Touring the Freedom Trail is the best way to do this. The two-and-a-half mile route is dotted with sites pivotal to the course of the American Revolution and the War of Independence. Along the trail you will also find the oldest public park in America, the historic Quincy and Haneuil Hall Markets, now popular dining spots, and the USS Constitution, a fantastically well-preserved 17^th century tall ship.

Besides historical sites, Boston has plenty of stunning period buildings. Picturesque 19^th century brownstone townhouses sitting along leafy streets, lined with gas-lit lamps, make Beacon Hill the most beautiful and desirable neighbourhood in all of Boston. You can live like a real Bostonian when you rent your own home away from home in Beacon Hill.

Take your pick from our cozy rental apartments and you can feel at home in Boston.