9 Iconic Boston Spots to Visit 

Even if it’s your first time visiting Boston, you’ve probably heard the stories and seen the listicles that highlight the city’s historic must-visit landmarks. While the city’s historical roots should not be glossed over, there are plenty of ways to experience history without visiting a museum. Wherever you’re staying in the city, the Commuter Rail makes it easy to explore iconic landmarks located within a mile of each station. 

Top Three Things to do Around Boston’s Back Bay Station

Back Bay Station lets out to Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, which is dripping with quintessential New England charm. Unmarred by modern architecture, the Back Bay immerses visitors in historic Boston while juxtaposing it with modern amenities. Taking up 1.6 square miles of Boston’s cityscape, it might seem like an insufficient neighborhood to visit, but don’t scratch the Back Bay off your bucket list just yet. 

Despite the time of year, there is a seasonal beauty to this neighborhood, from the vibrant cherry blossoms of spring and summer to the leaf-lined cobblestoned streets of autumn to the holiday lights wrapped around bare tree branches, making for a postcard-worthy photo of your trip to Boston. 

View Boston

While Boston is one of the smaller cities in the United States, it can still feel overwhelming to take in everything the city has to offer, especially when you consider your trip length and the opportunity to explore beyond the city limits.

To experience all of Boston at once, visit View Boston (.5 mi), located in the Prudential Center. Take a brief elevator ride to the 52nd floor, and see Boston like never before, with an aerial view of the entire city. Walk around and learn the history of the different neighborhoods, and visit the rooftop for a refreshing beverage or bite.

Newbury Street

A standout location for both Bostonians and visitors alike, Newbury Street (.7 mi)  is a go-to location for shopping the latest fashion trends to tasting the hottest dishes. While the street is only a mile long, it is a hub of activity.

Stop into quaint boutiques, well-known stores, fast-casual and sit-down restaurants, all while enjoying the beautiful brownstones the Back Bay is famous for. In the summer, enjoy “Open Newbury,” which allows pedestrians to meander about in the streets, as it is closed to traffic.

Courtyard Tea Room at Boston Public Library 

Tea and Boston are inextricably linked, and there are several tea rooms scattered across the city, pouring delicious brews and history. Nestled in the Boston Public Library, The Catered Affair (.4 mi) serves up a delicious and refined tea room experience. 

Their pre-fix tea menu features aromatic teas alongside tasty finger sandwiches and pastries, with allergen-friendly options available upon request. This hidden gem is a must-do when visiting Boston, as this historic building houses a plethora of historic relics, including John Adams’ personal library. With your engine fully satiated, end your posh tea with a stroll through the library, absorbing historic art, architecture, and of course, books. 

Three Must-see Attractions by South Station

Located on the edge of the Seaport and Financial District of Boston, South Station opens the doors to explore several neighborhoods tucked into the bustling cityscape. Blending both historic and modern architecture, this neighborhood represents what Boston was and what the city has become. 

The Financial District is defined by movement, from the lapping waves of the ocean to locals on their daily commute. Join in and, as you roam the streets, take in harbor views and the towering glass buildings that have reshaped the former trading port-hub.

Boston Tea Party Museum 

Travel back in time to 1773 with an interactive historical re-enactment at the Boston Tea Party Museum (.2 mi ). Join in and learn about Boston’s famous act of defiance as actors weave history into engaging storytelling. This immersive experience offers a different take on the classic museum experience, allowing you to not only hear about history but experience it. 

After your hour-long tour, there is still more to experience at this site. Peruse the gift shop or sit down at Abigail’s Tea Room & Terrace. Here you can really get a taste of the Boston Tea Party History as you can try five teas that were actually involved in the Boston Tea Party. 

Boston Common

Established in 1634, the Boston Common (.4 mi from South Station, or .3 mi via the Red Line Park Street Station) is one of the oldest parks in the United States. With over 44 acres of land to explore, this park is beloved by locals and tourists alike. 

Whether you want to take a stroll, go for a run, or people-watch, the “Common” offers a chance to see the city come to life. A certain magic unfolds under the canopy of the tree-lined walkways as performance artists put their talents on display and locals take a mundane walk with their dog, making for the perfect scene to romanticize your trip to Boston. 

Nestled within this expansive, lush summer greenery, autumnal foliage, or snowy winter wonderland is the Frog Pond (.8 mi). This marsh-like pond is an iconic landmark that Bostonians look forward to skating on in the winter, having picnics by in the spring, exploring on swan boats in the summer, and strolling past in the fall. 

The Boch Center Wang Theater

As the oldest theater in Boston, the Wang Theater (.6 mi) is a Boston Landmark. Stepping into this venue is an experience in itself; from the gilded ceilings to the 20th-century Beaux-Arts theater façade and ornate details, the interior is a showstopping photo opportunity. 

While you are in town, check out the local performances that will take the stage. Experience a diverse lineup of live entertainment, including concerts, musicians, touring productions, and appearances by major pop culture icons. 

Three Must-Visit Spots Near North Station in Boston

Exiting North Station brings you straight into the heart of Boston sports culture, TD Garden. Home to the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins, this area is a year-round destination for sports fans across New England.

Whether you have tickets to entertainment or a pro game, you can feel the excitement and die-hard passion that Boston sports fans are known for as soon as you exit the train platform. Once you exit the station, you have several options for where to wander next. 

The North End 

Discover the charm of the city with a taste of Europe in the North End (.5 mi), Boston’s own Little Italy. Wander down the cobblestoned streets of Boston’s oldest residential neighborhood, where generations of locals still call home, and the scent of fresh-baked pasta drifts through the air. 

In this neighborhood lies one of the longest-running and sweetest debates that divides Bostonians: which North End Pastry Shop makes the best cannoli. While it might sound silly, the answer to this question can gain you an instant friend or foe. 

During your visit to the city, join in on this delicious discussion and visit Mike’s Pastry (.4 mi), Modern Pastry (.4 mi), and Bova’s Bakery (.3 mi), to decide for yourself.  

Walk the Freedom Trail 

As you explore Boston, you will realize how history is ingrained into every corner of the city. A testament to this is the Freedom Trail, A red-brick line woven into the city’s sidewalks, guiding visitors through iconic landmarks of the American Revolution. Walking the Freedom Trail is a way to connect with history as you pass landmarks like Paul Revere’s home, the Massachusetts State House, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and many other iconic sites.

While the full trail spans about 2.5 miles, its beauty lies in the fact that you can follow in the footsteps of our forefathers and discover the enduring legacy of their resilience. This free self-guided tour allows you to experience Boston at your own pace, and you can step in and out along the way to create your own journey through the city’s history.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

If you are looking for a lively area to experience the people that make up the city of Boston, visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace (.6 mi). This outdoor plaza, which once hosted speeches of historic figures like Samuel Adams, is now a revolving door of tourists and locals alike. Joining historic proceedings with the modern pleasures of nightlife and shopping, Faneuil Hall offers a fun way to step back in time. 

Explore More Around Boston

If you are looking to get out of the city and discover what history, beauty, and charm lie beyond Boston, take a tour with Keolis massAdventures! Choose from guided or self-guided tours that take you from North or South Station to suburban Massachusetts towns full of things to explore.