A Fashion-Lovers Guide To Boston

Downtown

Dating back to the 1700s, Boston's historic Downtown is where you'll find City Hall, the Freedom Trail, and Faneuil Hall. There are also a number of corporate headquarters based here as well as condos and apartments. The area is full of energy and activity with several high class bars where you can enjoy a drink. Closer to Faneuil Hall is where you'll find the younger, slightly more rowdy crowd. Head to the pedestrian mall at the intersection of Summer and Washington Streets to browse high end fashion or pick up a classic Boston souvenir. This area is also where you'll find the Old South Meeting House, which was the starting point for the infamous Boston Tea Party of 1773.

Cambridge

Technically, its own city, Cambridge is an iconic area near Boston that is home to Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The town has a number of museums, mostly affiliated with either of the universities, as well as a lively music scene, an impressive art culture, and excellent restaurants. The Charles River is a defining feature of Cambridge. There are also a number of notable city squares as well as several distinct neighborhoods within Cambridge. While nightlife might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Cambridge, there are actually some great clubs and bars where you can grab a drink and party with the Ivy Leaguers.

Copley Square

One of the most popular spots in Boston, Copley Square is flanked on one side by the gorgeous Trinity Church which is reflected in the neighboring John Hancock Tower, and on another by the luxurious Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel. Also in the area visitors can find the Boston Public Library and the Old South Church.

Faneuil Hall

Established as a permanent central marketplace in Boston, and gifted by the wealthy merchant Peter Faneuil, this marketplace building was constructed in 1742 and then later expanded over the following decades and centuries. The meeting hall on the upper floor of the building became famous as a place of protest against the British during the era of the Revolutionary War. It has since become a place of protest and democracy throughout American history. Today, visitors can tour the historic building as well as visit the shops and restaurants of the marketplace buildings. Grab a souvenir and a bite to eat in the food court, or join one of the many walking tours of Boston that begin in this part of town.

Back Bay

Back Bay is a scenic neighborhood in Boston that is famous for its charming apartments and classic Boston style. Wander down Commonwealth Avenue to take in these picturesque scenes, or you can enjoy high end shopping along Newbury Street. The area is popular with the wealthy, who live in Victorian style homes in this quintessential Boston setting.

Boston Fashion Week

Boston Fashion Week is an annual event that celebrates luxury fashion with shows and events that bring local and international designers together.

Boston Opera House

The Boston Opera House is now the home of the Boston Ballet. It also hosts a number of Broadway shows.

The Institute of Contemporary Art

The Institute of Contemporary Art is in the Seaport District by the harbor. From the location you can enjoy impressive views of the Boston Harbor. The beautiful museum features 20th and 21st century work by notable women including Louise Bourgeois, Doris Salcedo, and Eva Hesse. There is also a satellite space that is opened seasonally during the summer months. It's accessible by shuttle but must be booked in advance.

Bay Village

Tucked in between South End, Back Bay, the theater district, and Chinatown, this small neighborhood is a bit of a hidden gem. It's centrally located so it makes a nice base for exploring the city. It was built by the same group that built Beacon Hill, so the look is similar. There are tree-lined streets as well as many quaint shops and restaurants. The atmosphere is friendly and the neighborhood feels welcoming.

South End

This cosmopolitan neighborhood is close to both Downtown and the Back Bay neighborhood. South End has grown in popularity in recent years and the neighborhood has a mix of young professionals, families, and a large LGBTQ community. The streets are lined with brownstones, giving it a similar feel to nearby Back Bay. This is a vibrant neighborhood with a number of great restaurants, bars and clubs, ranging from high end to casual. There's also a very active arts scene.

Fan Pier

The recently revitalized Fan Pier is located just to the southeast of North End and Downtown Boston. Here, visitors can find a number of fun activities as well as shopping and restaurants. Home to the Boston Children's Museum, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and the Boston Tea Party Museum, this area is worth exploring, especially if you're looking for a good meal. A park on the north end has nice views of central Boston and a quiet setting, while the large playground at Martin's Park by the Children's Museum is a fun spot for the kids.