DK Travel : Boston

“The Hub,” “Beantown,” “Baaahstin” – call it what you will, New England’s largest city exists to be explored. Its colonial-era architecture, vibrant seafaring heritage, and irrepressible Yankee character make it one of the country’s most distinctive locales. Yet for all its big-city amenities – world-class restaurants, museums, and shops – Boston remains surprisingly compact and eminently walkable.

Fenway Park

Home to the Boston Red Sox baseball team, Fenway Park opened in 1912. It still has a manual scoreboard. Operating the scoreboard is a much sought-after job. Tours of the ballpark are available and depart from Yakey Way Store, a Red Sox souvenir store across the street. These give visitors a chance to go behind the scenes and visit the press-box among other places.
Figs

A popular spot where local celeb-chef Todd English turns his deft hand to pizza with toppings like artichoke, caramelized leeks, goat’s cheese, and basil oil.
Filene’s Basement

Discount fashion outlets nationwide owe Filene’s Basement an immense debt of gratitude. Since 1908, this sprawling subterranean department store has championed the “name-brand shopping for less” retail philosophy. Some items are well priced, while others see their prices plummet the longer they sit on the shelves – illustrating Filene’s markdown concept. The store inspires severe cases of bargain-hunting hysteria, especially during the bridal gown sale (see Wedding Gown Shopping at Filene’s Basement).
Finale

Try the molten chocolate gateau or rich crème brûlée.
First Night

Despite being plagued in recent years by staggeringly cold weather, the New Year’s Eve festivities remain among the most highly anticipated events of Boston’s year. A $15 pass grants access to countless concerts, performances, and museum exhibits throughout the city, not to mention a dazzling midnight fireworks display over Boston harbor.
Fish Pier

By 1926 – 12 years after its construction – the Greco-Roman style Commonwealth Pier (aka Fish Pier) had become the world’s busiest and largest fish market. The day’s catch is still brought to the early-morning market here. Sample some of it in hearty chowders at the legendary No Name Restaurant (see No Name Restaurant).
Flour Bakery & Café

Delectable cakes, cookies, and perfect cups of coffee.
Forest Hills Cemetery

More than 100,000 graves dot the rolling landscape in this Victorian-era “garden cemetery”, one of the first of its kind. Maps available at the entrance identify graves of notable figures, including poet e e cummings and playwright Eugene O’Neill. Striking memorials include the bas-relief Death Stays the Hand of the Artist by Daniel Chester French, near the main entrance.
Fort Point Channel

Despite being situated inside the Big Dig (see 1991–: The Big Dig) maelstrom, Fort Point remains one of Boston’s most intriguing areas. Over the past 25 years, local artists have migrated to the neighborhood, lured by affordable studio space. Their warehouse workshops count the $300 million Federal Courthouse among their neighbors.
Four Seasons

Rock stars and visiting dignitaries often select the low-key luxury of this modern hotel situated on the edge of the Theater District. The lobby-level Bristol Lounge is a favorite spot for striking business deals, and the indoor pool is an added bonus.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes, and extra charges.
- under $150
- $150–$250
- $250–$350
- $350–$450
- over $450
Restaurant price categories

For a three course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes, and extra charges.
- under $30
- $30–$45
- $45–$60
- $60–$75
- over $75