Boston, Massachusetts is a city steeped in history and culture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the East Coast of the United States. If you only have 48 Hours in Boston, the priorities are the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill, the waterfront, and Quincy Market. You can always throw in the tourist-trap stuff in a pinch. Boston has something for everyone. Here are some tips for your next trip to Boston.
Getting There:
Boston is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. Boston Logan International Airport is located just a few miles from downtown. Amtrak and regional train service also connect Boston to other major cities on the East Coast. This is how we got from Boston to Salem. If you prefer to drive, Boston is located at the intersection of several major highways. Just be careful, they don’t get their nickname of “Masshole” for nothing. Their driving is truly terrifying and I lived in Los Angeles, Dallas and Tampa Bay where snowbirds flock.
Where to Stay:
Boston has many great neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own unique charm. Beacon Hill is known for its historic brownstones and quaint streets, as seen above. My friend and I stayed in an AirBnB in Medford. It was a short Uber ride to Quincy Market and the waterfront, which is ideal when you only have 48 hours in Boston to spend. Whatever your preference, there are plenty of hotels and Airbnb options to choose from in Boston.
What to Do:
There is no shortage of things to do but when you only have 48 hours in Boston, you have to make it count. Start your trip with a visit to the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail that takes you through 16 historical sites in the city, including the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution Museum. For sports fans, a visit to Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is a must. The Boston Common and Public Garden offer a peaceful respite from the city, while the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Fine Arts are great options for families. My bestie and I ate and shopped in Quincy Market, took a train up to see Salem and the witches and then drove down to Rhode Island so I could check it off my bucket list and hung out at the zoo.
Where to Eat:
Boston is known for its seafood, so be sure to indulge in some fresh lobster or clam chowder during your trip if that’s your thing. I was absolutely obsessed with this lovely french bakery that was within walking distance of our AirBnB called Colette. Best chocolate croissant and strawberry tart I’ve ever had. Dumplings at Wagamama, seriously! Boston Burger Company had these absolutely insane milkshakes.
Getting Around:
Boston is a walkable city, but if you need to get somewhere quickly, the subway system, known as the “T,” is a convenient option. There is also Uber or Lyft (which is what I used) and there is also the train but that’s more for getting in or out of the city.
Boston is a city full of history, culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there is always something new to discover in this vibrant city.