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.

Lenox

Under family management for over 35 years, this Edwardian landmark on Copley Square is intimate and European in style. The rooms are splendid (especially the corner suites), some with working fireplaces.
Les Zygomates

French bistro fare, 30 wines by the glass, and live jazz (see Les Zygomates).
Les Zygomates

The dinner crowd at Les Zygomates (the French term for the facial muscles that make you smile) is lured by reasonably priced French bistro fare. Come 9pm, the sleek, whimsically designed bar area comes alive with young professionals intent on flexing their smile muscles and appreciating the nightly live jazz performances.
Lexington

Peaceful, leafy Lexington Green, surrounded by high-spired country churches, marks the first encounter of British soldiers with organized resistance by American revolutionaries. The rebels fortified their courage for the confrontation with a night of drinking at the adjacent Buckman Tavern (1 Bedford St).
Lilac Sunday

While the Arnold Arboretum (see Arnold Arboretum) counts 4,463 species of flora, one plant deserves particular celebration. When its 500 lilac plants are at their fragrant, color-washed peak, garden enthusiasts arrive in droves for a May Sunday of picnics, folk dancing, and tours of the lilac collections.
Limbo

How low can you go? The snazzy, gleaming Limbo bar is the Ladder District’s trendiest and most frenetic scene. There’s an upstairs dining section, too.
Linwood Grill

Don’t let the faux Dixie decor fool you: Linwood makes a mean Carolina-style pulled pork barbecue.
Little Brewster Island

Boston Light, the first US lighthouse, was erected here in 1716 and it remains the last staffed offshore lighthouse in the country. Limited tours visit the small museum and lead visitors up the 76 spiral steps and two ladders to reach the top.
Lizard Lounge

Just outside Harvard Square, the Lizard Lounge attracts a young, alternative-rock and folk-loving crowd with the promise of good live music and a small cover charge.
Locke-Ober

Chef-owner Lydia Shire champions rich and luscious foods. Boston Brahmins frequent Locke-Ober for the re-imagined American fare and original 1890s decor (see Locke-Ober).

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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