Exploring Boston’s Back Bay
Swan boat photo uploaded by Eric Kilby
Boston’s Bay Back neighborhood is nestled between the Charles River and the South End, densely populated with cozy brownstones and towering office buildings. Here are some places to check out on your next trip to Beantown.
Newbury Street is a favorite destination among Boston fashionistas. Here you’ll find swanky restaurants and bars, jewelry shops, boutiques, book stores, and more. During the summer, many of the restaurants open up their patios, which is great for people-watching on a sunny New England afternoon (Stephanie’s and Sonsie are two of my personal faves). The Shops at Prudential Center are nearby for more shopping.
Boston Commons and the Public Gardens offer a calm escape from the bustle of downtown. Visitors can ice skate on the Frog Pond in the winter, ride the swan boats in spring and summer, and stroll through the gardens year round. Summer on the Commons also brings a number of free concerts, plays, and other events.
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts are just two of the museums in Boston’s Back Bay. You could easily spend a full afternoon at either museum (they are a short distance apart so you could see both if desired), browsing the artwork and soaking the gorgeous views.
Getting to the Back Bay: parking in this area can be expensive and tough to find, so I recommend taking the subway and walking around. Most of the highlights are close to each other, so don’t be put off by the number of subway stops.
Green Line: Hynes Convention Center, Copley, or Arlington
Orange Line: Back Bay
Check out the MBTA’s trip planner for more info.
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