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Are you planning a Girls trip to Boston and looking for the perfect itinerary? Boston is a beautiful and historic city with a wide variety of things to see and do. From shopping and dining to sightseeing and entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the planning process and give you all the information you need to make the most of your girls trip to Boston. From where to stay and what to see to where to eat and what to do, we’ve got you covered. So grab your besties and get ready for an unforgettable trip to one of America’s most beloved cities!
Is Boston fun for a Girls trip?
Yes! Boston is one of the most revered and historic cities in the US, and in my opinion, one of the best places for a girls trip! From historic sites and landmarks, such as the Freedom Trail and the USS Constitution Museum, to shopping and dining, there is something for everyone in Boston.
Boston is one of my favorite cities in the US. After college, I moved up to New Hampshire from Florida for a few months and spent some time in the city. Boston has such a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a ton of museums, galleries, and performing arts venues to explore.
Is 3 days enough for Boston?
You can definitely see a lot of what Boston has to offer in 3 days. If you only have three days in Boston, it’s best to figure out and prioritize the things that interest you most and make a plan from there.
You can easily visit the main historical sites, such as the Freedom Trail or Boston Common in a day. With the remaining days, you can explore the city’s many museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts or the Museum of Science. You can also take a day trip to nearby towns like Cambridge, Salem, or Lexington.
Getting Around Boston
One of the things that I love about Boston is the many transportation options. The “T” is so easy to figure out and if you feel lost there’s always someone around to help you out!
- The MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority), also known as the “T,” is Boston’s public transportation system. It includes subway lines (the Red, Orange, Blue, and Green lines), buses, and commuter rail service. The T is a convenient and affordable way to get around Boston and the surrounding area.
- Taxis and ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are widely available throughout Boston.
- Biking is becoming increasingly popular in Boston, with the city’s bike-sharing program, Bluebikes, offering over 200 stations throughout the city.
- Walking is a great way to explore Boston’s many neighborhoods and historical sites. Many of the city’s popular attractions are within walking distance of each other.
- Driving in Boston – DON’T DO IT. There’s honestly no reason to be driving around Boston in a car. It will give you way more headache than it’s worth.
- Ferries are also available to Boston Harbor Islands.
Boston has a compact and walkable downtown. The public transportation system is extensive and reliable, so in my opinion, you really don’t need a car to get around.
Where to Stay for a Girls Trip in Boston
When planning your girls trip to Boston, finding the right place to stay is very important. There are plenty of hotels to choose from in the city, but not all of them are created equal. But first, let’s talk about the different neighborhoods in Boston.
The city is always buzzing, with an eclectic art and music scene, a dedicated sports fan base, and a bustling business district. With Harvard and MIT in the city, Boston is full of interesting people from all over the world. There are incredible restaurants, and the harbor and parks make it the picture-perfect city to spend a weekend with your best girls.
Boston has 23 neighborhoods and each neighborhood has its own unique character and charm. If you are looking for a hip and happening place to explore, then the South End is the perfect destination. This neighborhood is filled with the city’s best restaurants and nightlife, as well as chic shops and beautiful architecture.
Northeast of Back Bay is home to perhaps the most photogenic of all Boston neighborhoods – Beacon Hill. Think of it as a tamer, more cultural version of South End. With trendy restaurants, chic boutiques, and plenty of Instagram-able spots, Beacon Hill is a must-stop on your girls trip to Boston.
Situated alongside I-93, the main highway cutting through Boston, the North End is a historic waterfront neighborhood known for its heavy Italian influence. This area of town is full of delicious Italian restaurants, quaint bakeries, and quaint boutiques.
If you have time, take the “T” to Brookline which is located just west of Boston. It’s a charming town with great restaurants and shops in Coolidge Corner. You’ll also find historic sites like the John F. Kennedy National Historic Site.
No matter which neighborhood you choose to explore on your girls trip, you won’t be disappointed. With its vibrant culture, bustling nightlife, and incredible food, Boston is the perfect place to spend a weekend with your girlfriends!
Here are a few options that we recommend for a fun and comfortable girls trip:
- Boston Marriott Copley Place
- Moxy Boston Downtown
- Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel
- AKA Hotel Boston Common
- AKA Hotel Boston Backbay
- The W Downtown Boston
All of these hotels are centrally located, so you’ll be able to explore the city easily and all have great amenities for a girls trip. Just make sure to book in advance as Boston is a popular destination and hotels fill up quickly.
What to do during a Girls Trip in Boston
Boston is a city rich in history, culture, and entertainment, there’s never a shortage of fun things to do!
Here are some our favorite Tours for a Girls Trip to Boston:
- Boston Harbour Brunch Tour
- Haunted Boston Ghost and Pub Tour
- Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbour
- Boston’s best Tavern Tour
- Boston Brewery Tour
Must See Boston Sites:
- The Freedom Trail: This 2.5-mile long trail takes you through 16 historical sites and is a great way to learn about the city’s history and see some of its most iconic landmarks.
- Fenway Park: If you’re a baseball fan, a visit to Fenway Park is a must. This historic stadium is home to the Boston Red Sox and offers tours that take you behind the scenes of the park.
- The New England Aquarium: Home to thousands of sea creatures and features interactive exhibits, a 4D theater, and a shark and ray touch tank.
- The Museum of Fine Arts: This museum is home to a wide variety of art from around the world and features works by famous artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
- Boston Common: This is the oldest public park in the United States and is a great place to relax and enjoy the city. Take a stroll through the park and enjoy the beautiful gardens, the pond, and the historic monuments.
- Boston Public Library: This is the third largest public library in the US and is home to many interesting exhibits and events.
If you’re planning to visit a lot of museums and tourist sites, you may want to consider getting a CityPASS or Go City Boston which can save you money on admission fees.
Where to Eat: The Best Restaurants for a Girls Trip in Boston
Boston is known for its delicious food and diverse culinary scene, making it a great destination for a girls trip. Here are a few restaurants that are perfect for a fun and delicious meal with your friends:
- Union Oyster House: This historic restaurant is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States and is known for its delicious seafood.
- No. 9 Park: This French-Italian bistro is located in Beacon Hill.
- Oleana: This Mediterranean restaurant is located in Cambridge.
- Bricco: This Italian restaurant is located in the North End.
- Myers + Chang: This Asian-inspired restaurant is located in the South End and is known for its delicious food and fun atmosphere.
- The Friendly Toast all-day brunch.
- Union Square Donuts: This bakery is located in Union Square and is known for its delicious donuts and pastries, it is a perfect spot for a sweet treat.
- Picco for pizza.
- Buttermilk and Bourbon for southern cuisine.
- Lolita in Back Bay for Mexican cuisine.
- Toro for Spanish Tapas and carefully crafted cocktails.
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Boston. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, Italian, Mediterranean, or Asian cuisine, you’ll find something that appeals to everyone in this culinary-rich city. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as these popular restaurants fill up quickly.
Spots to Visit on a Girls Trip in Boston
Boston offers a great variety of shopping and entertainment options for a girls trip. Here are a few places you won’t want to miss:
Shopping
- Newbury Street: This is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Boston and offers a wide variety of high-end shops, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s perfect for a day of shopping and exploring with your friends.
- Faneuil Hall Marketplace: This historic market offers shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one place. You’ll find a wide variety of shops, street performers, and live music here. It’s perfect for a fun day out with your friends.
- Prudential Center: also known as “The Pru,” is a shopping and dining destination located in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood. The center features over 75 shops and restaurants.
- Copley Place: is a luxury shopping center located in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood. The mall features an impressive collection of designer boutiques and high-end retailers as well as a variety of dining options and a beautiful atrium with a glass roof and skylights.
- Downtown Crossing: a shopping and dining district in the heart of Boston’s financial district. The area is known for its department stores like Filene’s Basement and T.J. Maxx, as well as a variety of discount and bargain retailers. The district also features a variety of restaurants and street vendors, making it a popular spot for lunch and a great place to find a bargain.
- Boston Seaport: is a rapidly developing trendy and upscale neighborhood in Boston, known for its high-end shopping and dining options, as well as its luxury residential and office buildings. The Seaport is also home to several popular restaurants, bars, and breweries, making it a perfect spot for a night out.
Boston Bars and Nightlife – The entertaintment options in Boston are always changing. Check out these posts for latest on best bars and nightlife entertainment in Boston.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Girls Trip in Boston
Boston is a great destination for a girls trip, but it can also be a busy city with a lot to see and do. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Plan ahead: Boston is a popular destination and can get busy, so make sure to plan your itinerary and book your accommodations in advance.
- Use public transportation: Boston’s public transportation system is extensive and reliable, so take advantage of it. It will save you time, money, and the hassle of finding parking.
- Dress in layers: Boston’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to dress in layers. This will allow you to be comfortable no matter what the weather is like.
- Be mindful of your budget: Boston can be an expensive city, so it’s important to be mindful of your budget when planning your trip. Look for deals, discounts, and ways to save money on activities, food, and accommodations.
- Be prepared for a lot of walking: Boston is a compact city, with most of its popular tourist attractions located in a small area, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and take breaks when needed.
- Don’t be afraid to venture out of the city: Boston is surrounded by many beautiful towns and cities, like Salem, Cambridge and Brookline, that are worth visiting.
Day trip ideas from Boston
Boston is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick getaway or a visitor looking to explore beyond the city limits, there are plenty of great day trip options to choose from. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Salem: Just a short train ride from Boston, Salem is best known for its association with the witch trials of 1692. Visitors can explore the Salem Witch Museum, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, and the Witch House, which was the home of the witch trial judge Jonathan Corwin.
Plymouth: About an hour’s drive from Boston, Plymouth is where the Pilgrims first landed in 1620. There you can visit Plymouth Rock, the Mayflower II, and the Plimoth Plantation, a living history museum where you can step back in time and experience life as it was for the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people.
Cape Cod: This popular summer destination is a little over an hour’s drive from Boston. Enjoy the beaches, lighthouses, and seafood, as well as a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Newburyport: A charming coastal town located around an hour drive from Boston, Newburyport offers a variety of activities such as whale watching, scenic boat tour, and the Newburyport lighthouse. The town is also known for it’s picturesque streets and variety of seafood restaurants.
The North Shore: Just a short drive from Boston, the North Shore region offers visitors a chance to experience picturesque coastal towns, such as Gloucester, Rockport and Ipswich, with a variety of art galleries, museums and seafood shacks.
How to save money while planning your Girls trip to Boston
Boston is a great destination for a girls’ trip, but it can also be a bit expensive. As you start to plan you’ll want to check out my blog posts on how to plan a weekend trip on a budget and ways to save for your next vacation.
Here are some tips to help you budget and make the most of your time in Boston:
- Look for deals on flights and accommodation. Boston is a popular tourist destination, so there are often deals and discounts available on flights and hotels.
- Consider staying in a vacation rental or Airbnb. This can be cheaper than booking a hotel room (not always), and it also allows you to have more space and privacy. Be mindful of the neighborhood and make sure it’s safe for you and your group.
- Take advantage of free activities. Boston has a lot of free activities to offer, such as visiting the Freedom Trail, taking a walk through the Public Garden, and visiting the Boston Common.
- Take public transportation. Boston has a great public transportation system, and it’s a great way to save money while getting around the city.
- Plan ahead and make a budget. Before you go, make a list of the things you want to see and do, and then estimate how much money you will need to spend. This will help you budget and make sure you don’t overspend while on your trip.
- Look for Groupon deals, or other local deals for activities and restaurants.
- Try to be flexible with your travel dates. Sometimes, traveling during the week or during the off-season can be cheaper than traveling on weekends or during peak season.
- Get a Mass Value Pass – check out this list of 50 under $50 on the Visit MA website for things to do in Boston.
Girls trip to Boston
Boston is a fantastic destination for a girls trip. With its rich history, delicious food, and abundance of activities, there is something for everyone in this charming city. By planning ahead, budgeting, and being flexible with your travel dates, you can make the most of your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime.
