By Kyla Foreman-Andrade
I spent this past summer in Boston. Without school and film shoots, I had a lot of free time and I realized that I have never done a lot of touristy things. I made it my personal mission to explore as much of Boston as possible. Here are the places that I think you should find to be the ultimate Boston tourist.
- Harvard Square
Although Harvard Square is not in Boston, it is only a bus or T ride away. Obviously, you can see the amazing Harvard, but if you stop for a second and actually soak in the square, you can see some amazing historic buildings as well as eat some amazing food (I would personally recommend the new Popup Bagels). The area is pretty walkable and is the perfect place to people watch.
2. North End
I have to admit, I had been to the North End before. But after talking to my friend from Charleston, I realized that I had never truly taken in the sites. This is the most historical place in Boston; it truly feels like a different world as soon as you enter the neighborhood.. You can walk the freedom trail and see where Paul Revere took his historic ride. All the buildings still have their historic charm. Some of the oldest bakeries and Italian restaurants are in the North End. While you’re there, you need to stop by Bova’s, a 24 hour Italian bakery. Their pastries are actually to die for and they are my pick in the cannoli war over Mike’s Pastry and Modern Bakery.
3. Esplanade
As a BU student, I am very familiar with the esplanade and it wasn’t a summer discovery. However, I still think it reigns as a top tier place to visit as a tourist. There is something so calming and beautiful about walking along the Charles River. It’s the perfect mix between city and nature. Whether you’re taking a midday stroll or a late night walk, your mind is guaranteed to be calmed and you will feel revived. Bonus points if you go at night, sit on the dock, and look at the stars plus the lights from Cambridge.
4. Take the T
I’ll admit, this doesn’t sound touristy at all. What is there to see by taking an underground train? I’d argue that is where you see the city’s real charm. Yes, it’s hot, crowded, and somehow always delayed, but the view you get of the Charles River when you take the red line is unbeatable. The feeling of listening to music while you people watch on a long T ride is fantastic. The history showcased at Park Street station is unmatched. It may not be the most luxurious, but it is technically a historic landmark as it’s the first subway system in the United States. Bonus: If you can balance on a moving T, you know that you were truly built for the city.