A Fellow’s Guide to Boston

Boasting of its rich history, quintessential brownstones, distinguished universities, iconic sports venues, and a huge biotech presence, Boston is the place to be, especially as a fellow! The city has much to offer for newcomers and locals alike, including Red Sox games for the sports fans, the best seafood spots for the foodies, craft breweries for the beer lovers, and variety of museums and historical landmarks for the culture seekers. Boston is a wonderfully walkable city, and here, we will walk you through the hottest neighborhoods to explore, places to eat, and things to do.

Back Bay/Beacon Hill

Often regarded as the “classiest” neighborhoods in Boston, Back Bay and Beacon Hill are perfect places to go for a stroll. You can find the main Boston attractions, go on a shopping spree on Newbury Street, and marvel at the luxury brick-facade and Victorian-style architecture in Back Bay. With a peaceful atmosphere and royal vibe, Beacon Hill is the definition of old charm. Pop into antique shops and vintage boutiques while you explore with a latte from Tatte in your hand.

Do:

• Take a stroll in Boston Common/Public Garden
• Go shopping on Newbury Street
• Explore and learn at the Boston Public Library

Eat/Drink:

• Brunch at The Paramount. Established in 1937, this is your classic spot in Beacon Hill for brunch and people watching on Sundays
• Go for a late-night snack and margarita at Lolita Cocina and Tequila Bar.

Fenway/Kenmore

Looking for action? Head over to Fenway/Kenmore, especially during baseball season. Home to Fenway Park, the House of Blues, pub-lined Landsdowne Street, and a slew of great restaurants, the night is always young with sports fans of all ages. Not a sports fan? Fenway/Kenmore is also home to the popular Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Do:

• Red Sox game at Fenway Park, enough said.
• Discover the beauty of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Eat/Drink:

• Time Out Market Boston. Showcasing the city’s best cuisines, cocktails, and culture, this is the perfect place to grab a bite and walk around before a Red Sox game.
• Tiger Mama is a tropical Southeast Asian oasis with a warm and fun dining space with palm trees, reclaimed wood furniture, and spicy, sharp, and funky dishes and cocktails

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North End

The North End is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Boston, situated right by the water and a short walk from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. Often called Little Italy, it’s Boston’s hub of Italian culture with home to landmarks like Old North Church and Paul Revere’s house.

Do:

• Check out the Faneuil Hall street performances
• Visit the legendary Paul Revere House, the longest standing structure in downtown Boston.

Eat/Drink:

• Seafood lover? No problem. Make sure you put your name down at the famous hole in the wall, Neptune Oyster, before you explore the North End. After a long day of exploring, you can treat yourself to fresh oysters and the best lobster roll in town.
• To satisfy your sweet tooth, you must take yourself on a North End cannoli tour. Try out the top 3 most loved pastry shops: Mike’s Pastry, Bova’s Bakery, and Modern Pastry and see which one is your favorit (mine is Bova’s Florentine cannoli)!
• The North End is also home to the best Italian restaurants in Boston. Try out Carmelina’s for the most satisfying plate of pasta. The Crazy Alfredo is to die for!

Seaport

Chic, young, and professional, the Seaport is a hot and upcoming neighborhood in Boston. In this modern district located southeast of downtown and nestled by the Boston waterfront, you will always find something to do. You could simply walk along the water and dream of the high life, or have a laid back afternoon or night in one of the cool outdoor breweries or restaurants.

Do:

• Wander along the 43-mile long Boston Harborwalk. You’ll see stunning views of the ocean and get to relive the Boston Tea Party
• Attend a free workout class, hosted by Seaport Sweat
• Hang out on a weekend afternoon at Cisco Brewers, located in the heart of the Seaport

Eat/Drink:

• A modern interpretation of the classic diner, Sportello is the perfect place for a classy dinner. After your meal, head right downstairs to Drink, where the bartenders, who have mastered the art of cocktails, can whip up any drink according to your preference
• Committee is a hip, vibrant spot for Greek food at any time of the day. Go for the atmosphere, stay for the fried feta cheese drizzled with honey and the delicious cocktails!
• For dessert, stop by Taiyaki for delicious ice cream packed in adorable fish-shaped bread cones, with unique toppings like mochi, unicorn sprinkles, and more.

Lilly Park is a second year Global Medical Information and Review fellow with MCPHS/Takeda.