Where to Stay in Boston: 11 Best Areas & Neighborhoods

While planning your visit to the wonderful city of Boston, you might be amazed by all the wicked tourist attractions in the area. Because of the vast amount of things to do, it can be overwhelming to figure out which part of the city to stay in.

Boston has a lot of history as an almost 400-year-old city. However, Boston offers so much more than that. As the largest city in New England, it is a mecca for culture, dining, outdoor recreation, education, professional sports, and shopping.

Where else can you see the tallest building in New England (the John Hancock Tower), visit the oldest public library (the Boston Public Library), eat like you’re in Italy, see the oldest park (Boston Common), explore local sports bars (including Cheers!), and relax at the many green spaces? (Hint: only in Boston!)

Are you going on a trip with your bachelor friends? Catch a Celtics, Bruins, Patriots, or Red Sox game. Are you going to your college reunion with your best gals? Stay in Cambridge for convenience, but take the “T” (Boston’s subway system) to other parts of the Hub for extra fun.

Planning an anniversary trip with your spouse? Stay in Beacon Hill for a romantic getaway of dining, shopping, and relaxation. Hopefully, this guide will help you determine the best neighborhoods and places to stay in Boston.

The best thing about Boston is that most things are within walking distance of each other, so it’s pretty easy to get around. Regardless of why you’re visiting, we’ve got you covered on the best places to stay in Boston!

TL;DR: Top Picks for Accommodation

• Luxury Hotel – The Liberty, a Marriott Luxury Collection Hotel, Boston
• Boutique Hotel – The Revolution Hotel Boston
• Budget Hotel – citizenM Boston North Station
• Vacation Rental – 1855 Grand Mansion In Historical Charlestown
• Family-Friendly Hotel – Boston Marriott Long Wharf
• Pet-Friendly Hotel – The Eliot Suite Hotel

Where to Stay in Boston, Massachusetts

1. Downtown Boston

Downtown Boston is bordered by Boston Common and Tremont Street on the west side and Congress Street on the northeast side. It is THE destination for first-time travelers to the city.

Downtown Boston offers plentiful dining, history, shopping, and recreation options, and it is also very pedestrian—and bike-friendly. Thus, it is easily the best area to stay for first-time visitors.

Things to do in Downtown Boston

One of the most popular attractions in downtown Boston is the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path of 16 landmarks significant to the country’s history. The trail’s famous sites include Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, the Old State House, King’s Chapel, and Park Street Church.

Traveling with kids? Take a trip to Boston Common, the oldest park in the United States and one of the many historic sites on the Freedom Trail. During the winter, ice skating is available at Frog Pond, and in the summer, there is a spray pool to cool off.

If you like shopping, head to the pedestrian-friendly Downtown Crossing, where you can shop at Macy’s or many local retail shops, eat from a food vendor on the street, and get some coffee to keep you going through the afternoon.

And if you’ve worked up an appetite with all of your wicked sightseeing, have some New England clam chowder and follow it up with some Baked Lobster Mac and Cheese at Legal Sea Foods on Washington Street.

Don’t hesitate to stop at Beantown Pub for a cold one, the only place where you can drink a Sam Adams while looking at his gravesite across the street.

Accommodations in Downtown Boston

• Vacation Rental – 2 Bedroom Downtown Boston condo
• Boutique Hotel – The Revolution Hotel Boston
• Luxury Hotel – Boston Omni Parker House Hotel

See Related: Is Boston Safe to Visit?

2. West End

If you want to visit Boston on a budget, consider staying in the West End. However, you won’t sacrifice fun to save money! This diverse neighborhood is home to TD Garden (where the Bruins and the Celtics play), several museums, and delicious restaurants.

Also, if you want to visit other parts of Boston, this neighborhood has several subway lines for easy transportation! While you may not find cheap hotels in the West End, some affordable options exist. So, if you’re wondering where to stay in Boston on a budget, put the West End on your list.

Things to do in the West End

Whether or not you’re a basketball or hockey fan, you should try to score a ticket to TD Garden to see the Celtics or Bruins. You may even become a fan—visiting during the offseason? Head to the Sports Museum inside the stadium for a half-mile of exhibits about Boston’s professional sports history.

If you love historic buildings and architecture, you must see the Otis House, the last surviving mansion in Bowdoin Square. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the Otis House is known for its federal-style architecture and furniture.

If you’ve got kids in tow, head to one of the largest science museums in the country, the Boston Museum of Science. Not only does it have over 700 amazing exhibits, but it also has a planetarium featuring AWESOME shows. There’s even a Sesame Street show for younger audiences to learn about astronomy!

Ever heard of a museum dedicated to medical history? Look no further than the Paul S. Russell, MD Museum of Medical History and Innovation (or Russell Museum for short). The museum is located at Massachusetts General Hospital and showcases more than two centuries of medical history.

If you’ve worked up an appetite, order some delicious crab cakes and a Johnnie’s Burger at West End Johnnies, the cornerstone of the West End’s culinary scene.

Accommodations in the West End

• Budget Hotel – citizenM Boston North Station
• Mid-Range Hotel – Onyx Boston Downtown
• Luxury Hotel – The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Boston (formerly the Charles Street jail!)

See Related: Do You Need a Car in Boston?

3. Waterfront

The Waterfront neighborhood is the best pick if you’re looking for a luxury trip to Boston. The area is filled with pedestrian-friendly piers on the harbor, while Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park has gorgeous harbor views.

You’ll find luxury accommodations in this beautiful part of Boston, close to decadent restaurants, beautiful parks, and many sightseeing cruises. So, if you’re looking for a luxury stay in Boston, put the Waterfront at the top of your list!

Things to do in the Waterfront Area

If you’ve never explored a city in an amphibious vehicle before, now’s your chance! Take a Boston Duck Boat tour from the harbor. You can see all of Boston’s sights on this tour, from the State House to the North End, Newbury Street, and the Prudential Tower.

After seeing all of the city’s sights on land, the tour will take you to the Charles River for a big splash! Are you traveling with kids? Stop at the New England Aquarium, where you can have a personal fur seal, penguin, or sea lion encounter! The aquarium also boasts the 200,000-gallon Giant Ocean Tank, a four-story tank home to hundreds of species of marine life.

If you want to relax in the middle of the city, head to Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, one of Boston’s green spaces bordering downtown and the Waterfront area. This awesome spot is perfect for relaxing with a glass of Cabernet while perusing the diverse menus at the food trucks. Let your inner child come out and run through the fountains and ride the famous Greenway Carousel.

When you’ve had enough sightseeing, stop by Chart House, Long Wharf’s oldest surviving structure, for some oysters on the half shell and some Boston cod or lobster stuffed Boston Scrood — so many drool-worthy options.

If you want to see one of the Boston Harbor islands, take a ferry ride from Long Wharf. This family-friendly experience is a delight for all ages, with access to a Civil War fort, beaches, and hiking trails.

Accommodations in the Waterfront Area

• Budget Hotel – Boston Marriott Long Wharf
• Mid-Range Hotel – Boston Yacht Haven
• Luxury Hotel – Boston Harbor Hotel

See Related: Day Trips from Boston

4. Cambridge

If you’re looking for one of the safest areas to stay in Boston, Cambridge is a fantastic choice. While technically not part of Boston, it’s just across the Charles River, and most people consider it just another neighborhood.

It ranks as one of the safest parts of the Boston area. It is home to Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), world-class museums, historical sites, boutique shops, restaurants, and theaters. So, if you want a safe place to stay in Boston, Cambridge is easily one of the safest areas.

Things to do in Cambridge

If you want a real, local experience, head to Central Square Historic District for an afternoon of shopping, eclectic food, and live music. Central Square is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Harvard Square is another option for grabbing a cup of joe, visiting a bookstore, and finding local eats.

Current students lead this 70-minute tour. You’ll enjoy their theatrical performances while they show you some of the major Harvard landmarks.

Want to eat like a local? Head to the Boston-only chain of Tasty Burger for the Big Tasty and a Pile of Onion Rings. And if that doesn’t fill you up, visit Toscanini’s for one of their amazing ice cream flavors, like B3 (brown sugar, butter, and brownies) or Gingersnap Molasses.

You could spend many days touring the AMAZING museums in Cambridge, but start with the Harvard Art Museums (three separate museums, the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum, and the Fogg Museum). You’ll find everything from Western paintings to Asian fine art.

And you shouldn’t stay in Cambridge without a visit to the MIT Museum. It is so cool, with exhibits on the latest research at the university, robotics, holography, artificial intelligence, and so much more. If you want to feel smart, learn a thing or two at this museum.

Accommodations in Cambridge

• Budget Hotel – Sonder 907 Main
• Mid-Range Hotel – Kimpton Marlowe, an IHG Hotel
• Luxury Hotel – Le Meridien Boston Cambridge

See Related: Things to Do on Nantucket Island

5. Charlestown

While there are many family-friendly areas in Boston, Charlestown ranks among the best! Although Charlestown is only one square mile, there are plenty of fun things to do in the small space! Located on the banks of Boston Harbor, Charlestown has fun parks, museums, water recreation, shopping, and dining.

Things to do in Charlestown

One of the top attractions in Charlestown is the USS Constitution, the oldest ship still afloat! Also known as “Old Ironsides,” the USS Constitution is over 200 feet long and over two centuries old! While kids enjoy climbing aboard Old Ironsides, adults will love the almost 2,000 artifacts from the ship’s history.

Just a short walk from the USS Constitution is the Charlestown Navy Yard. After years of shipbuilding history, the Navy Yard has acres of green spaces, including Shipyard Park and Menino Park. The imaginative public playground at Menino Park is fantastic for kids, and adults will love the views of the city’s skyline.

If you can’t get enough historical sites, put the Bunker Hill Monument and the Colonel William Prescott Statue on your itinerary. The Monument was constructed where the Provincial forces built a redoubt, or earthen fort, before the Bunker Hill battle. The small Bunker Hill Museum gives more history of the battle and the Provincial forces.

Shoppers will enjoy a trip down Main Street, which is lined with adorably quaint gift shops. In addition, Main Street is home to the Charlestown Farmers Market across from Thompson Park. If you visit between June and October, you can pick up some delicious local produce and artisanal goods!

Thirsty for a cold one and some lunch? Have a frosty beverage at the oldest bar in Massachusetts, the Warren Tavern. Dating back to 1780, the Warren Tavern was built right after the Battle of Bunker Hill.

Have a Downeast Original Cider from East Boston or a Sam Adams (if you want to be traditional), and order some New England Clam Chowder to warm your soul and feed your belly.

Accommodations in Charlestown

• Vacation Home – Charming 1 Bed/1 Bath
• Mid-Range Hotel – Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf
• Luxury Accommodation – 1855 Grand Mansion

See Related: Best Breweries in Massachusetts

6. North End

Also known as Boston’s Little Italy, the North End is the destination for food lovers. With almost 100 restaurants in this mid-sized neighborhood, you can spend a week here and never try them all.

In addition, the Freedom Trail continues from downtown Boston to the North End, with the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. Visitors to the North End will love the narrow cobblestone streets, the wonderful aroma of authentic Italian food, and the old-town feel.

Things to do in the North End

Take a trip to the 17th Century and visit the Revere House, the home of one of the Founding Fathers and the oldest building in downtown Boston. Revere’s anecdotal story is that he shouted, “The British are coming, the British are coming!” Whether he uttered those exact words is unknown, but he is famous for his ride warning the Minutemen of the British invasion.

The Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and Copps Burying Ground are all part of the Freedom Trail that goes through the North End. The church is where the sexton and a Vestryman held two lanterns on the steeple to warn the Minutemen that the British troops were coming by sea and not by land. The signal was “one [lantern] if by land, two [lanterns] if by sea.”

Visitors to the North End can also walk on the Harborwalk, the free public walkway along the Boston Harbor. At the North End, the Harborwalk includes the Burroughs Wharf, Lewis Wharf, and the Commercial Wharf. Exploring the Harborwalk is fun for all ages, with easy access to parks, cafes, and public art.

Stopping at the Boston Public Market is necessary if you get hungry while on sightseeing missions! This indoor market showcases dozens of New England vendors with fresh produce, prepared meals, locally sourced meat and poultry, and more. You can also quench your thirst with a cold one at the Pine Bar and walk around while exploring the local goods.

And if you’re looking to experience an authentic part of Little Italy, you must dine at one of the many Italian restaurants. While we can’t pick the BEST because there are so many, a trip to Giacomo’s Boston North End on Hanover Street is a solid choice.

Start with a lobster roll or some New England clam chowder and then delight your tastebuds with one of the many delectable entrees, such as Homemade Fusilli served with lobster meat and shrimp or the Lobster Ravioli with diced tomato in a garlic cream sauce.

Accommodations in the North End

• Budget Hotel – Battery Wharf Hotel, Boston Waterfront
• Mid-Range Hotel – Bricco Suites
• Vacation Home – 4-bedroom Apartment- 2P Location

See Related: Family Travel Hacks You Need to Know

7. Fenway-Kenmore

The Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood is an excellent option if you’re heading to Boston and looking for lively nightlife. The area is famous for Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, and there are plenty of sports bars on Lansdowne Street. However, dance clubs, trendy restaurants, and student hangouts exist.

And, if you want to mix some culture with your nightlife, there are a couple of outstanding museums to visit!

Things to do in Fenway-Kenmore

The most obvious thing to do while in Fenway is to visit Fenway Park for an actual Red Sox game or a ballpark tour. It’s known as “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark” for a reason, and if you’re not a BoSox fan before you go, you’ll likely leave as one! The one-hour walking tour of the park includes a trip to the Green Monster, the almost 40-foot leftfield wall.

Just a short walk from Fenway Park is the Cheeky Monkey Brewery. Enjoy a Rebellious Monk Stout or Harambe’s Ghost Double IPA, but order some food too. Their Monkey Burger will curb your hunger with two beef patties, cheddar cheese, bacon, crispy onion straws, a fried egg, and sriracha mayo on a toasted bun.

If you’re feeling a little Irish, head to the Landsdowne Pub for a traditional Irish Sheppard’s Pie and a pint of Guinness. And if you’re craving something other than pub food, have some robata grilled yakitori or karaage fried chicken at Hojoko, a rock’ n’ roll izakaya.

Or put on your cowboy boots and have some delicious shrimp and grits or a shrimp po-boy at Loretta’s Last Call, the first and only country venue in Boston.

To see a killer rock show at an intimate venue, head to Paradise Rock Club. Upcoming shows include G. Love & Special Sauce, Margo Price, and Letters to Cleo. You can also catch live shows (and dinner) at the House of Blues, where you can feast on Lobster Mac and Cheese or Jambalaya before the show.

And for a bit of culture, visit the Boston Symphony Orchestra. There are family concerts like Peter and the Wolf and traditional orchestral concerts.

Or, watch student or faculty recitals and performances at the Boston Conservancy, such as Shakespeare’s As You Like It, the faculty Woodwind Quintet, or the Fall Dance Concert: From the Ground Up.

Accommodations in Fenway-Kenmore

• Budget Hotel – Oasis Guest House
• Mid-Range Hotel – The Inn at Longwood Medical
• Luxury Accommodation – The Verb Hotel

See Related: Best Girls Trip Destinations Around the World

8. Back Bay

Are you looking for a shopping destination? Look no further than Back Bay! This affluent neighborhood is known for Newbury Street, where designer boutiques, art galleries, and upscale dining options line the street. Not only can you shop in Back Bay, but you can also visit Copley Square, which has two 19th-century landmarks, including the Boston Public Library.

Located along the Charles River, Back Bay is known for its Victorian brownstones and gorgeous mansions on Commonwealth Avenue. This is my favorite neighborhood in Boston because it blends a bit of local life and the ease of access to tourist activities.

Things to do in Back Bay

Back Bay is famous for Newbury Street, the 8-block shopping destination. You will find everything from bohemian to chic, local boutiques to international retailers here.

While Newbury Street is synonymous with the best shopping in Boston, there are also three other retail destinations in Back Bay if you want to visit Saks Fifth Avenue or Lord and Taylor, head to the Prudential Center, which has over 75 shops and restaurants!

If you’re not scared of heights, you can head to the 50th floor of the Prudential Center for the Observation Deck with amazing city views! If you still haven’t completed your shopping list, stop at Copley Place for Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin, or Gucci. And you shouldn’t forget Boylston Street for your Lululemon leggings and some famous Lindt chocolate.

Once you’ve checked off everything on your shopping list, don’t forget to learn about the neighborhood’s history at Copley Square. Trinity Church, the centerpiece of Copley Square, is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and gorgeous murals.

And get lost in the labyrinth-like Boston Public Library (maybe literally!). Stop by the cloistered courtyard for a few minutes of solitude for peace. And if you’re craving a frosty beverage, bring your cash to Bukowski Tavern, where more than 100 beers are available.

While it looks like a dive bar that may only serve the standard brews, don’t be fooled. This kitschy tavern focuses on hard-to-find regional beers, so be sure to ask for a unique brew!

Accommodations in Back Bay

• Budget Hotel – Copley House
• Mid-Range Hotel – The Eliot Suite Hotel
• Luxury Accommodation – Mandarin Oriental Boston

9. Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is perfect for visiting Boston for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon! Although one of the city’s most picturesque areas, Beacon Hill is only 1/6 of a square mile.

Located just north of the Boston Public Garden and Boston Common and along the riverfront of the Charles River Esplanade, this beautiful small area has steep streets, antique lanterns, and Federal-style homes.

“Beacon Hill” refers to the hill where the Massachusetts State House resides. This is a beautiful and quaint neighborhood, but you’ll also find plenty of art galleries, restaurants, and boutique shops to entertain you.

Things to do in Beacon Hill

Take a trip down the six blocks of Charles Street in Beacon Hill to see all the antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants. If you need a pick-me-up while perusing the shops, stop at Cobblestones for The Revere Sandwich, a roast beef sandwich on a French baguette with cheddar and horseradish aioli. For dessert, have a Large Americano and a Whoopie Pie!

Beacon Hill is famous for many things, including the childhood home of Louisa May Alcott, the author of Little Women! Boston’s most expensive real estate lies next to Louisburg Square, the city’s only remaining private park.

Built in the mid-19th Century, these homes are gorgeous in Greek revival style. Among the many bow-fronted townhouses is 20 Pinckney Street, Alcott’s home, where she wrote Flower Fables in 1854.

You can’t visit Beacon Hill without seeing the Massachusetts State House. Paul Revere and Sam Adams put down the building’s cornerstones in 1795. Completed in 1798, the gold-domed building, with its Revolutionary War art and historical displays, is worth exploring. The State House is also one of the 16 historic buildings on the Freedom Trail.

In addition, the North Slope of Beacon Hill is where you’ll find the Black Heritage Trail, featuring the Museum of African American History and safe houses that were part of the Underground Railroad.

Cheers! No, really, Cheers! The aptly-named bar was where the old TV show Cheers filmed the outside scenes, primarily during each episode’s intro. So, stop by for a picture and a beer, but don’t expect the inside of the bar to look the same with Frasier, Norm, and Cliff sitting on the barstools.

Accommodations in Beacon Hill

• Budget Hotel – Sonder The Hancock
• Mid-Range Hotel – Comfy Beacon Hill Studio
• Luxury Accommodation – The Whitney Hotel Boston

10. East Boston

If you want to experience a diverse and culturally rich area of Boston, look no further than East Boston, or “Eastie” for short. While Eastie is known as the home of Boston Logan International Airport, it offers much more.

Not only can you see some of the most beautiful views of the Boston Harbor and skyline, but there are some hidden beaches (SSHHHHH, don’t tell anyone) that will delight people of all ages. In addition, the area’s history and food combine to provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind cultural experience. So, if you’re wondering where to stay in Boston, Eastie is amazing!

Things to do in East Boston

One of the first things you should do in Eastie is visit the Madonna Queen of the Universe shrine. Built in the 1950s, the 35-foot Madonna statue is at the top of Orient Heights. The statue has beautiful mosaics and a stunning view of the airport and harbor.

Kids will love Piers Park, which has a large playground, an outdoor fitness center, and direct access to the waterfront. There’s also a 600-foot pedestrian path to two pavilions for picnics and skyline views. While there, visit the Piers Park Sailing Center, which focuses on 100% accessible recreational activities.

Visiting during the summer? Pack a picnic and head to Constitution Beach for sun, sand, tennis, and basketball. This hidden gem is a local spot, so you won’t find many tourists here!

If you’re looking for an Italian restaurant in Eastie, head to Rino’s Place, featured on the hit show “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.” You can whet your appetite with Shrimp Scampi, Lobster Ravioli, or Vitello Saltimbocca.

Or, for something completely different, try Rincon Limeno Restaurant for authentic Peruvian dishes like Arroz Chaufa de Carne o Pollo or Chicharron de Pescado. On a cold day, warm up with a hot bowl of pho or some Vietnamese rice dishes at Saigon Hut.

Lastly, if you want to end your evening with some whiskey, head to The Quiet Few, which has an entire page of its menu dedicated to bourbon, scotch, rye, Irish whiskey, and Japanese whiskey. They also offer beer and wine if you’re not a whiskey fan.

Accommodations in East Boston

• Budget Hotel – Hilton Garden Inn Boston Logan Airport
• Mid-Range Hotel – Courtyard by Marriott Boston Logan Airport
• Luxury Accommodation – Global Luxury Suites East Boston

11. Seaport District

The Seaport District is an up-and-coming neighborhood on the South Boston waterfront. It’s perfect for young, hip couples who want to eat, shop, and relax all in one place. This area has upscale restaurants, cocktail bars, cafes, museums, trendy shops, and ample green space.

You can’t go wrong staying here, with access to everything you need within a few blocks. And if you want to head to other parts of the city, you’ve got easy access to the T. Wondering about the best place to stay in Boston? Put the Seaport District at the top of your list!

Things to do in the Seaport District

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the Seaport District is the Boston Tea Party Ships. This floating museum is a hit with kids and adults and features live reenactments of many parts of the Boston Tea Party.

And a trip on the ships is even more amazing! You can also head to Abigail’s Tea Room and Terrace to sample some teas thrown overboard on that crazy day.

If you’re visiting Boston in the summer, head to the Leader Bank Pavilion for live music like Machine Gun Kelly or the Brothers Osborne. It’s a gorgeous venue with perfect harbor breezes, amazing lighting, and top-of-the-line sound.

Craving a soft pretzel and a cold beer after sightseeing? Stop at nearby Harpoon Brewery for a Harpoon Flannel Friday (a hazy pale ale) or a Dunkin’ Pumpkin (a spiced latte ale). Oh, and their delicious soft pretzels.

If you want to experience culture, head to the Institute of Contemporary Art. The Seaport District has several fantastic restaurants, but if you want some of the most unique tacos you’ve ever had, stop by Bartaco (and yes, the “B” is supposed to be lowercase). Here, you’ll find menu items like a Crispy Oyster taco, a Roasted Duck taco, and a Falafel taco.

Accommodations in the Seaport District

• Budget Hotel – YOTEL Boston
• Mid-Range Hotel – Aloft Boston Seaport District
• Luxury Accommodation – Seaport Hotel® Boston

Tours in Boston

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