What is the best area to stay in Boston?

As you plan your trip to this iconic New England destination, one crucial question arises: where should you base yourself?  This article will guide you through Boston's most notable areas, helping you choose the perfect location for your stay. Whether you're drawn to the Freedom Trail's historical sites, seeking the academic atmosphere around Harvard Square, or looking to explore the eclectic food scene in the North End, we'll break down which is the best area to stay in Boston for your next trip.

What is the best area to stay in Boston?

We’ll delve into each neighborhood in depth below, but here’s each neighborhood at a glance:

• For families: Stay in Black Bay because of it’s safe central location with cultural and recreational activities and tree lined streets.
• For first time visitors: Stay in the Financial District to stay close to major attracts with excellent public transportation
• For luxury: Stay in Beacon Hill for an intimate experience with top-notch service and historic charm. Upscale dining and unique experiences.
• For a bohemian vibe: Stay in Jamaica Plain for a community-oriented neighborhood with green spaces, artistic touch, and sustainable living.
• For nightlife: Stay in Fenway Kenmore to be in the action especially on game nights. A youthful vibe due to nearby universities with sports bars, concert venues, and art museums.
• For LGQTQ+: Stay in South End - known for LGBTQ+ community, and features galleries, theaters, numerous dining options.
• For art enthusiasts: Stay in North End for old-world charm with narrow streets and intimate atmosphere.
• For those on a budget: Stay in  Brighton and Allston for a youthful and eclectic vibe, affordable accommodation, featuring green spaces, local businesses, and vibrant nightlife.

Best area to stay in Boston for families: Back Bay

• My recommendation: Charlesmark Hotel 
• Location: Close to Copley Square
• Pros: Central location, family-friendly amenities, spacious rooms, historic charm
• Cons: Can be pricey, street noise on lower floors, busy area during events

Back Bay is a charming neighborhood in Boston that's famous for its Victorian brownstones, upscale shops, and for being the best area to stay in Boston for families. Picture-perfect and lively, Back Bay has residential charm.

One of the key spots you’ll want to visit is the Boston Public Library, a stunning Renaissance Revival building with a serene courtyard. For a special treat, have afternoon tea at the library's Courtyard Restaurant. 

The Gibson House Museum is also worth a visit for a glimpse into 19th-century Boston life. The nearby Boston Duck Tours, which start at the Prudential Center, offer a fun way to see the city by land and water. 

For those who are planning their visit during the warmer months, the Charles River Esplanade is just a short stroll away, and is ideal for picnics or for little ones to run around.

Why I love it: The neighborhood's safe streets, central location, and mix of cultural and recreational activities

Best hotels in Black Bay

• Best for a boutique stay: Charlesmark Hotel offers an intimate, stylish experience in the heart of Back Bay. With its contemporary rooms, personalized service, and prime location near Copley Square, it provides a chic retreat for those exploring Boston's historic district.
• Best for modern luxury: Copley Square Hotel combines historic charm with contemporary elegance. Its well-appointed rooms, fitness center, and trendy bar make an ideal stay in one of Boston's most desirable neighborhoods.
• Best for old-world charm: The Eliot Hotel exudes timeless sophistication in a 1925 neo-Georgian building. With its luxurious suites, award-winning dining, and impeccable service, it offers a refined experience for those appreciating classic elegance.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Black Bay to fit any budget.

Best area for first-time visitors: Downtown (Financial District)

• My recommendation: The Boxer
• Location: Close to Boston Common
• Pros: Central location, modern amenities, close to public transportation, walkable to major attractions
• Cons: Can be noisy, busy during weekdays, some rooms may be small

Downtown Boston is an ideal base for first-time visitors.  Key attractions include the historic Freedom Trail, which winds through the neighborhood passing sites like the Old State House and Faneuil Hall; the bustling Quincy Market with its food stalls and street performers; and the iconic Boston Common, America's oldest public park. The New England Aquarium is also nearby.

The ambience of Downtown Boston is a vibrant mix of historic charm and modern urban energy. Cobblestone streets and colonial-era buildings stand alongside sleek skyscrapers.

For unique dining experiences, visit Union Oyster House, America's oldest continuously operating restaurant, for classic New England seafood. Enjoy innovative cuisine at Yvonne's, a modern supper club in a historic space. For a special treat, have drinks at the Lookout Rooftop Bar atop the Envoy Hotel, offering stunning views of the Boston skyline. 

More things to do in Downtown Boston include taking a harbor cruise from Long Wharf, exploring the shops at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and visiting the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum for an interactive history experience. Art enthusiasts should check out the contemporary works at the Fort Point Arts Community galleries. 

Why I love it: Downtown Boston is the perfect launching pad for first-time visitors.

Best hotels in the Financial District

• Best for a boutique stay: The Boxer offers a unique, intimate experience in a triangular flatiron building. With its industrial-chic design, cozy rooms, and personalized service, it provides a stylish urban retreat for travelers seeking character and comfort near Boston's Financial District.
• Best for riverside luxury: The Royal Sonesta Boston boasts stunning Charles River views. Its spacious rooms, indoor pool, and proximity to both the Financial District and Cambridge make it ideal for business travelers and tourists alike seeking upscale amenities and scenic vistas.
• Best for modern comfort: Onyx Boston Downtown combines contemporary style with a convenient location. Its well-appointed rooms, fitness center, and proximity to major attractions make it perfect for both business and leisure travelers wanting a comfortable base in the heart of Boston.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in the Financial District to fit any budget.

Best area for luxury travelers: Beacon Hill

• My recommendation: The Beacon Hill Hotel
• Location: Close to Boston Common and the State House
• Pros: Intimate luxury boutique hotel, excellent service, in-room fireplaces, rooftop terrace
• Cons: Expensive, limited on-site amenities compared to larger luxury hotels, some rooms may be small

Beacon Hill is one of Boston's most picturesque neighborhoods, known for narrow, gaslit streets, charming Federal-style row houses, and an abundance of antique shops. It is in fact home to Acorn Street which is often cited as the most photographed street in America.

When you visit, make sure to check out the Massachusetts State House with its stunning gold dome. It’s a landmark you can't miss. Another must-see is the Black Heritage Trail, rich with history

For a taste of Boston’s intellectual past, pop into the Boston Athenaeum, one of the oldest independent libraries in the country. If shopping is more your style, Charles Street is the place to be, filled with antique shops, cute boutiques, and specialty stores.

For a unique experience, have drinks at the Liberty Bar in the Liberty Hotel, a former jail turned luxury hotel. 

Foodies will love No. 9 Park, an upscale restaurant by chef Barbara Lynch, where you can indulge in sophisticated cuisine and an extensive wine list. If you’re in the mood for classic French fare, Ma Maison is a charming spot housed in a beautiful brownstone.

Why I love it: Beacon Hill is the epitome of Boston's refined charm and rich history. It's an area where luxury meets legacy

Best hotels in Beacon Hill

• Best for a boutique stay: The Beacon Hill Hotel offers an intimate, charming experience in one of Boston's most historic neighborhoods. With just 13 rooms, it provides personalized service, cozy accommodations, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
• Best for luxury: The Whitney Hotel Boston exudes elegance and sophistication. This luxurious boutique hotel features upscale amenities, beautifully appointed rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Its prime location allows easy access to Boston's top attractions.
• Best for extended stays: Sonder The Hancock provides apartment-style accommodations perfect for longer visits. With fully-equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and modern decor, it offers a home-away-from-home experience.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Beacon Hill to fit any budget.

Best area for a bohemian vibe: Jamaica Plain 

• My recommendation: The Coolidge Corner
• Location: Close to Jamaica Pond
• Pros: Eclectic atmosphere, green spaces, close to public transportation
• Cons: Limited hotel options in the area, not as centrally located as downtown hotels, may require more travel to major tourist sites

Jamaica Plain, or "JP" as the locals call it, is a diverse and eclectic neighborhood in Boston that's all about vibrant community vibes, green spaces, and an artistic touch. The whole area feels bohemian and community-oriented, with tree-lined streets filled with colorful Victorian houses, indie boutiques, and locally-owned cafes. You'll notice a strong emphasis on sustainability and social consciousness here, thanks to the numerous farmers markets, community gardens, and grassroots organizations.

For a dose of culture, head to the Urbano Project, a community art space with rotating exhibits that foster civic engagement through art. If you’re into nature, don’t miss the Arnold Arboretum, a massive 281-acre botanical research center and public park. 

Jamaica Pond is another must-see, perfect for walking, jogging, and even sailing. Beer lovers will enjoy the Samuel Adams Brewery, where you can take tours and taste some of Boston's famous craft beers.

For a laid-back evening, grab a beer at Turtle Swamp Brewing, a local microbrewery with a relaxed taproom. And for a taste of Jamaica Plain’s diverse food scene, don’t miss The Haven, Boston's only Scottish pub, where you can try some delicious Jamaican cuisine.

Why I love it: Jamaica Plain isn't just a place to stay; it's a vibrant community.

Best hotels near Jamaica Plain

• Best for homely charm: The Coolidge Corner Guest House offers a cozy, intimate experience in nearby Brookline. With its charming rooms, home-cooked breakfasts, and welcoming atmosphere, it provides a personal touch for travelers seeking a home-away-from-home near Jamaica Plain.
• Best for modern convenience: Hilton Garden Inn Boston Brookline combines comfort with accessibility. Its contemporary rooms, fitness center, and proximity to public transportation make it ideal for both business and leisure travelers wanting easy access to Jamaica Plain and downtown Boston.

Browse hundreds of accommodations near Jamaica Plain to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Boston for nightlife: Fenway Kenmore

• My recommendation: The Verb Hotel
• Location: Western part of Boston, home to Fenway Park
• Pros: Vibrant atmosphere, especially on game nights at Fenway Park, numerous sports bars and pubs catering to baseball fans, popular concert venues like House of Blues and Paradise Rock Club
• Cons: Can be noisy during game days, nightlife often revolves around sports, which may not appeal to everyone

Welcome to Fenway-Kenmore, a vibrant Boston neighborhood best known as the home of Fenway Park, the iconic stadium of the Boston Red Sox. 

Start your visit with a tour of Fenway Park, even if it's not game day. It's a must-see piece of baseball history. Art enthusiasts should head to the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the world's most comprehensive art museums, or the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, housed in a beautiful Venetian-style palazzo with a stunning courtyard.

The energy in Fenway-Kenmore is palpable, especially on game days when the streets and bars are packed with excited fans. 

When it comes to entertainment, catch a concert at the House of Blues or an intimate show at Cafe 939. Or visit Fenway Recording Studios and take a tour of this legendary music space. 

if you're into craft beer and elevated pub fare, Trillium Fenway at the open-air Fenway food hall Time Out Market is a great choice. For a more upscale evening, try Eastern Standard, famous for its excellent cocktails and late-night menu.

Why I love it: Fenway-Kenmore’s energy is contagious, fueled by the enthusiasm of sports fans, college students, and music lovers alike. 

Best hotels in Fenway Kenmore

• Best for a boutique stay: The Verb Hotel offers a unique, music-themed experience near Fenway Park. With its retro-chic decor, vinyl record library, and rock 'n' roll memorabilia, it provides a fun, stylish retreat for music lovers and baseball fans alike.
• Best for upscale comfort: Hotel Commonwealth combines luxurious amenities with a prime location. Its spacious rooms, acclaimed dining options, and views of Fenway Park make it ideal for discerning travelers seeking sophisticated accommodation in the heart of Boston's Kenmore Square.
• Best for ultimate luxury: Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street epitomizes high-end hospitality. With its sleek design, lavish rooms, world-class spa, and stunning city views, it offers an unparalleled luxury experience for those desiring the very best in Fenway-Kenmore.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Fenway Kenmore to fit any budget.

The area for Boston's LGBTQ+ scene: South End

• My recommendation: Hampton Inn & Suites Boston Crosstown Center
• Location: Just southwest of downtown Boston
• Pros: Historically the center of Boston's LGBTQ+ community, beautiful Victorian row houses and tree-lined streets, thriving arts scene with galleries and theaters
• Cons: Can be expensive for both accommodation and dining, limited parking options, can be challenging for visitors with cars, some parts can be quite busy and noisy, especially on weekends

South End is one of Boston's most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture alongside trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries. Known for its stunning Victorian brownstone buildings and tree-lined streets, the South End is also famous for its thriving LGBTQ+ community. 

You'll find plenty to explore here, from the bustling SoWa Art + Design District, filled with galleries and the lively SoWa Open Market, to the Boston Center for the Arts, which is a hot spot for theater and visual arts. Be sure to visit the Cyclorama, a unique circular building that hosts various events and exhibitions.

Stroll along Tremont Street, also known as "Restaurant Row," and explore the numerous independent boutiques. Toro offers delicious Barcelona-style tapas from acclaimed chef Ken Oringer. Coppa offers small Italian plates that are popular. 

For brunch, try The Beehive (a local jazz bar). Or, chase a hangover at drag brunch at Bootleg Special, a lively Cajun seafood restaurant that’s always a hit.  For drinks, try Trophy Room or The Eagle.

Why I love it: It's an area where you can feel community, experience local art, and have some of the city's best cuisine, all within a few charming blocks.

Best hotels in Boston’s South End

• Best for a boutique stay: Staypineapple offers a quirky, stylish experience in the heart of the South End. With its vibrant decor, unique amenities like signature yellow robes, and pet-friendly policies, it provides a fun and memorable stay for travelers seeking something different.
• Best for business travelers: Hampton Inn & Suites Boston Crosstown Center combines comfort with convenience. Its well-equipped rooms, business center, and easy access to the medical area and downtown make it ideal for corporate travelers and those visiting nearby hospitals.
• Best for budget-conscious design lovers: The Revolution Hotel offers affordable style in a historic building. Its creatively designed rooms, co-working spaces, and celebration of Boston's innovative spirit make it perfect for budget-conscious travelers who don't want to sacrifice aesthetics or location.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Boston’s South End to fit any budget.

Best area for art enthusiasts: North End

• My recommendation: Boston Yacht Haven 
• Location: Close to Commercial Street and the waterfront
• Pros: Rich Italian-American heritage and culture, charming narrow streets and old-world atmosphere
• Cons: Can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, limited green spaces

Boston’s North End is the city's "Little Italy," rich in Italian-American heritage and packed with cultural gems. 

The North End is famous for its old-world charm, with narrow streets and an intimate atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. The neighborhood is bustling, especially during the evenings when the restaurants fill up. It's a place where tradition and community thrive, with many family-owned businesses passed down through generations.

While here don’t miss Caffe Vittoria, Boston's first Italian cafe, where you can enjoy coffee and cannoli surrounded by vintage espresso machines and charming artwork.

There's more to discover beyond food. For art enthusiasts, the North End offers some unique experiences. Start your day with a visit to the Paul Revere House, the oldest structure in downtown Boston, and the Old North Church, a significant site from the American Revolution. 

Check out the North Bennet Street School, where you can watch artisans at work. The North End Music & Performing Arts Center is another must-visit for concerts and exhibitions. 

Why I love it: While it may not have traditional art galleries, the North End invites you to appreciate art in its many forms.

Best hotels in this area Boston’s North End

• Best for a boutique stay: Boston Yacht Haven offers a unique maritime experience on the waterfront. With its nautical-themed rooms, private marina, and stunning harbor views, it provides an intimate, luxurious retreat for travelers seeking a distinctive stay near the North End.
• Best for family-friendly amenities: Boston Marriott Long Wharf boasts a prime harborside location. Its spacious rooms, indoor pool, and proximity to attractions like the New England Aquarium make it ideal for families and tourists wanting comfortable accommodations with easy access to North End's charms.
• Best for luxury waterfront experience: Boston Harbor Hotel epitomizes waterfront luxury. With its opulent rooms, award-winning dining, full-service spa, and panoramic harbor views, it offers an unparalleled high-end experience for discerning travelers exploring Boston's historic North End and beyond.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Boston’s North End to fit any budget.

Best budget-friendly neighborhood: Brighton and Allston

• My recommendation: Studio Allston Hotel 
• Location: Western part of Boston, along the Charles River
• Pros: More affordable housing and accommodation options, large student population, creating a youthful atmosphere, diverse dining scene with many inexpensive options
• Cons: Further from downtown and main tourist attractions, can be noisy and crowded during college move-in/move-out periods, some areas may feel less polished or maintained

Welcome to Brighton and Allston, two vibrant and adjacent neighborhoods in Boston known for their diverse, youthful atmosphere and wallet-friendly options. If you’re looking for a place with an energetic and eclectic vibe, influenced by the large student population from nearby universities, this is the spot for you.

Start your trip by catching a game at the Harvard Stadium, where college sports events are always thrilling. Art lovers should head over to the McMullen Museum of Art at Boston College to explore some inspiring exhibits. If you’re more into the outdoors, Christian Herter Park along the Charles River offers beautiful walking and biking trails that are perfect for a leisurely day out.

For some unique dining and nightlife, you’ve got to check out Lone Star Taco Bar. They serve up creative tacos and tequila in a relaxed setting that’s perfect for hanging out with friends. If live music and craft beer are more your thing, Great Scott is a beloved local venue that won’t disappoint. 

When it comes to shopping, Harvard Avenue is your go-to. This eclectic strip is filled with vintage clothing stores and international markets, perfect for finding unique treasures. 

Why I love it: Brighton and Allston are great places to call home base if you’re on a budget

Best hotels in Brighton and Allston

• Best for a boutique stay: Studio Allston Hotel offers a vibrant, art-centric experience. With its uniquely designed rooms featuring work by local artists, colorful common spaces, and creative amenities, it provides a stylish and inspiring retreat for art lovers and trendy travelers.
• Best for extended stays: DoubleTree Suites offers spacious accommodations ideal for longer visits. Its all-suite rooms, indoor pool, and location between Boston and Cambridge make it perfect for families or business travelers seeking comfort and convenience for extended periods.
• Best for budget-friendly comfort: Hotel Boston provides affordable accommodation without sacrificing location. Its clean, comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and proximity to public transportation make it ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting easy access to Boston's attractions and universities.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Brighton and Allston at any budget.