Something about East Coast summers and the humidity really does it for me. It could have been the Boston atmosphere or just the presence of the sun, but whatever it was, I was feeling my “hot girl summer” in full force. Yes, honey.
Boston was wonderful, to say the least. It’s the first city in the US I truly felt like a tourist in since returning from China, and I’m grateful my experience gave me hope to somewhat like the US. Real talk.
If you’re seeking a well-rounded experience in a city full of history and culture, here’s a weekend itinerary of places to see, things to do, and what to eat in Boston. Enjoy!
- About Boston
- When to visit
- Where to stay ~ HI Boston Hostel
- How to get around
- Where to pray
- Where to eat
- What to see & do
About Boston
Boston, the capital city of Massachusetts, is one of the oldest cities in the United States. It was founded in 1630 and is known for its role in the American Revolution. Many of the city’s historical sites and landmarks are associated with that period.
Boston is also known for its prestigious universities, like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), both located in Cambridge. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues that are all a must-see when visiting.
Additionally, Boston is a major hub for healthcare and biotechnology industries, with some of the world’s leading hospitals and research institutions located in the city. The economy of the city is also driven by finance, education, and technology, making it one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the United States.
When to visit
The best time to visit Boston depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Here are some factors to consider:
- Weather: Boston experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. If you enjoy outdoor activities, the best time to visit is typically between late spring and early fall (May to October), when temperatures are mild and there is less chance of rain or snow. However, keep in mind that summer can be crowded and expensive, especially in July and August.
- Events and festivals: Boston hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Boston Marathon in April, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on the 4th of July, and the Boston Film Festival in September. If you’re interested in a particular event or festival, be sure to check the dates and plan your trip accordingly.
- Budget: Boston can be an expensive city to visit, especially during peak tourist season. If you’re looking to save money on accommodations and attractions, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to May and September to November), when prices are generally lower and crowds are smaller.
Where to stay ~ HI Boston Hostel
A convenient, clean, and comfortable hostel located in Chinatown. This was my first experience hosteling in the US, and knowing the US doesn’t have the greatest hostel culture, I was unsure what to expect. I was rather pleased with my experience and would consider staying here again if I had the choice.
I stayed in an all-women 6-bedroom. Each bed is provided with a locker to store your belonging, although you’ll need to bring your own lock. You’ll also be provided with bedding. Bathrooms are shared and located outside the rooms.
A personal tip is to always bring a pair of sandals to walk around in and especially for the bathroom.
For booking details, here’s where you can book your stay.
How to get around
If you’re a frequent visitor of my blog, you know I’m a public transportation junkie. I will always do my best to list alternative options to driving because let’s face it, driving ain’t it.
I found Boston to be a very walkable and tourist-friendly city. Coming from China, I know what good public transportation looks like, and considering Boston’s subway system dates back to 1897 and is the oldest in the United States, it’ll have to do.
Here are a couple of ways I got around the city and how you can too.
Blue Bikes
Boston Blue Bikes is a bike-sharing program that allows users to rent bicycles for short trips in and around the city. There’s an app you will need to download in order to have access to bike-sharing. Once downloaded, you’ll be able to see where all the bike dock stations are located to rent and return the bikes.
A tip, make sure you securely dock the bikes at the stations when you’re done riding, otherwise, you will be charged. And yes, it happened to me.
Boston Subway (the “T”)
The Boston subway system consists of four subway lines: the Red Line, Green Line, Blue Line, and Orange Line, as well as several commuter rail lines that serve the surrounding suburbs.
The T is a convenient way to get around the city, with stops at many popular tourist destinations, including Fenway Park, Harvard University, and the Freedom Trail. The subway system also connects to Logan International Airport.
To use the T, you may purchase fare cards or tickets at subway stations or on board commuter rail trains. The fare system is distance-based, with fares ranging from $2.40 to $13.25 depending on the distance traveled. The T operates seven days a week and offers frequent service during peak hours.
Where to pray
Islamic Society of Boston
A beautiful Muslim community organization right in the heart of the city which serves the greater Boston area. It was founded in 1981 and operates two mosques: the ISB Cambridge Mosque in Cambridge and the ISB Cultural Center in Roxbury (as shown in the image above).
I really appreciated seeing how well-equipped, spacious, and beautiful this mosque was, and to top it off, being able to pray in it. One of the greatest things I’ve found to be as a Muslim traveler is, finding spaces of worship that give you a sense of identity. I understand every mosque has the same value and purpose, although our structural environment can make a difference in our human experience of finding a stronger sense of connection to a place.
Where to eat
Fish & Chips at Shaking Crab
Location: 140 Boylston St, Boston, MA, 02116
I always crave fish and chips. It’s one of those childhood favorites I can’t seem to let go of.
The Shaking Crab is an excellent spot if you’re looking for all things seafood. They specialize in seafood boils, but also offer a variety of seafood baskets and chicken.
The fish and chips came with 3 decent-sized fried fish and the right amount of sweet potato fries – it was very filling and flavorful, although a bit on the greasy side. Overall, it hit the spot and I got my cravings satisfied. Yes, honey.
Halal Korean Fried Chicken at FIYA Chicken
Location: 1024 Commonwealth Avenue Boston, MA 02215
A wonderful halal Korean chicken shop with delicious fried chicken. I was very excited when I found out this spot served halal options.
I ordered a fried chicken sandwich and deeply appreciated how hearty and flavorful the chicken was. All I remember was inhaling the sandwich, don’t worry, I said Bismillah.
Although they specialize in fried chicken, the restaurant also offers unique delicacies like their top-selling Korean hotdogs. Issa yum for me.
Ice cream at J.P. Licks
A Jamaican Plain, Boston original ice cream shop established in 1981. This ice cream shop specializes in homemade ice cream and offers a variety of cakes, pies, coffee, and catering services.
I had a vegan pistachio ice cream and I could easily taste how fresh and flavorful the ingredients were. They have a total of 17 locations all over Boston, so it’s likely you may drive or walk by a location if you plan a visit to the city.
What to see & do
Take a stroll around Chinatown
I can’t say I’ve lived in China if I don’t visit every Chinatown in every city I travel to. It is everything from finding comfort and feeling nostalgic from being around the people, language, food, and culture.
Boston’s Chinatown is one of the largest and oldest in the United States, so it’s definitely hard to miss if you’re in the area. You’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, bakeries, and businesses to really immerse yourself in what the place has to offer.
Some popular attractions in Chinatown Boston include the Chinese New Year parade, the Chinatown Gate, and the Chinatown Cultural Center. The neighborhood is also home to a number of historic landmarks, like the Hong Kong Eatery, the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association building, and the Quong Yuen Shing & Company herbal medicine shop.
Walk down the Theatre District
A 5-minute walk from Chinatown, you’ll find Boston’s Theatre District.
The Theatre District has a variety of shows and performances taking place throughout the year. Some of the most popular theaters in the district include the Boston Opera House, the Wang Theatre, and the Shubert Theatre, all of which host a range of Broadway shows, musicals, and other live performances.
In addition to theaters, the Boston Theatre District is home to a number of art galleries, museums, and cultural institutions, including the Boston Center for the Arts and the Museum of Fine Arts.
You’ll also find a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants surrounding the Theatre District.
Browse through Brattle Book Shop
Walking through the Theatre District, you’ll also find Brattle Book Shop. Founded in 1825, it is one of the oldest and largest used bookstores in the United States.
The bookstore is known for its three floors of books, including rare and antique volumes, as well as more contemporary titles. It also has an outdoor sale lot where customers can browse through discounted books, maps, prints, and postcards.
Enjoy activities at Boston Common
Boston Common is a public park located in the heart of the city. Established in 1634, it is the oldest city park in the United States and home to several important landmarks like the Massachusetts State House, the Boston Public Garden, and the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Originally, Boston Common was used as a grazing area for cattle, and later became a site for public hangings, military drills, and political rallies. During the American Revolution, the park was the site of speeches by revolutionary leaders like Samuel Adams and James Otis, and a training ground for soldiers.
Today, it is a popular park with several recreational facilities, like tennis courts, baseball fields, and a skating rink in the winter. It is also home to the famous Swan Boats, which offer rides on the nearby lagoon.
Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
A very lovely art museum named after the founder, Isabella Stewart Gardner. Gardner was a prominent art collector and philanthropist who began collecting art in the late 19th century. The museum’s collection includes over 2,500 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and decorative objects from different time periods and cultures.
I highly recommend this museum for its beautiful outdoor garden, architecture, and overall experience.
For ticket details, you can purchase them directly on the museum website.
View the city’s cultural district in Central Square
Central Square is a neighborhood in Cambridge known for its thriving arts and culture scene, along with its many restaurants and cafes. You’ll find cultural institutions like the Central Square Theater, the Dance Complex, and many music venues in the area.
In addition to its arts and culture scene, Central Square is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with several technology companies and start-ups.
During my visit, the Dance Complex hosted an outdoor dance lesson for the community and the scene was very lively. Black artists and businesses were also near the venue and it was nice to see a variety of vendors with handcrafted items, clothing, art, and more.
Explore the city of Cambridge
Cambridge is a city located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, just across the Charles River from Boston. As mentioned earlier, it is home to the prestigious universities Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Cambridge is also home to many cultural institutions, historic landmarks, and a thriving biotech industry. You’ll find that the city has progressive politics, diverse communities, and a vibrant arts and music scene.
Here’s how you can best explore Cambridge.
Enjoy the architecture at Harvard University
Walk around Harvard University and you’ll automatically fall in love with the mix of architectural styles from, colonial, Georgian, gothic revival, and modern buildings.
You can enjoy a nice picnic, tour around campus, visit Harvard Square, or even check out the wide variety of museums located on campus.
You’ll also find that Harvard Square offers many restaurants and cafes, with a wide range of cuisines and dining options.
Take a stroll through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Across from the Charles River, you’ll find the Massachusetts Institute of Technology or MIT.
Some of the features of MIT’s campus are the Great Dome, the Stata Center, and the MIT Museum, which showcases the university’s contributions to science and technology.
Catch the sunset at Charles River
Last but not least, what’s more satisfying than ending a short weekend trip by watching the sunset by the water? I remember reading how humans naturally crave to be near water because it makes us happier, no different from the presence of the sun. It’s a feeling and beauty unexplainable.
If anything, travel has taught me to catch the sun as it rises or sets wherever I am. To be in its presence and fully grant myself the ability to reflect on how miraculous of a world we’ve been blessed to experience, and the Creator who’s given us that privilege.
For the love of all things travel, I hope this Boston itinerary gives you all the inspiration and motivation to visit this wonderful city. As always, happy travels!
