Boston

United States

Boston offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy, with world-class museums, delicious seafood, and a lively cultural scene. Its walkable historic districts and beautiful waterfront make it a compelling destination for all travelers.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days
Budget$100/day
Mid-range$250/day
Luxury$1000/day

Known For

BostonMassachusettsNew EnglandCambridgeSalemLexingtonConcordFenwayThe HubBeantown

🇺🇸 Country Information: United States

CapitalWashington
CurrencyUnited States dollar ($)
LanguageEnglish , Spanish,Chinese,French,Tagalog,Vietnamese,Korean,German,Arabic,Russian
Phone Code+1
Electricity120V (Type A, B)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is customary for services (restaurants, bars, taxis, hair salons, etc
  • )
  • Restaurant waitstaff: 15
  • 20% of the bill
  • Bar staff: $1
  • 2 per drink or 15
  • 20% of the bill
  • Taxi drivers: 15
  • 20% of the fare
  • Hotel housekeepers: $2
  • 5 per day

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available
  • Credit cards are widely accepted
  • Bringing cash is a personal preference, but credit/debit cards are sufficient for most transactions
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Casual dress is common, but smart casual is appreciated in upscale settings
  • Politeness and direct communication are generally valued
  • Punctuality for appointments is expected
  • Personal space is generally respected
  • Shaking hands is a common greeting
  • Eating customs are diverse, but typically involve using forks, knives, and spoons
  • It is common to make small talk with strangers
  • "Bless you" is said when someone sneezes

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. LGBTQ+ rights vary by state, but federal protections are in place for marriage equality and some anti-discrimination laws. Public opinion is increasingly supportive.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 21
  • Marijuana laws vary by state (some states allow recreational or medicinal use, others do not)
  • Federal law prohibits marijuana use
  • Drug laws are strict, particularly for illicit substances

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to jaywalk in many areas
  • Open container laws for alcohol vary by state and city
  • Driving laws vary by state

Common Phrases

NoNo (NOH)
YesYes (YES)
HelloHello (huh-LOH)
PleasePlease (PLEEZ)
Excuse meExcuse me (eks-KYOOS mee)
Thank youThank you (THANk yoo)

Climate

Climate Zone: Continental Cool

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Clam Chowder (New England Style) regional_speciality

A thick, creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and often bacon or salt pork. It is a signature dish of New England, particularly Boston, offe

Lobster Roll must_try

A sandwich primarily composed of lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise or butter, served on a grilled hot dog-style bun. This dish highlights the region'

Boston Cream Pie dessert

The official dessert of Massachusetts, this is a sponge cake filled with pastry cream and topped with a chocolate glaze. It originated at Boston's Par

Cannoli (North End) dessert

A classic Italian pastry consisting of fried pastry dough shells filled with a sweet, creamy ricotta cheese filling. These are a must-try, especially

Boston Baked Beans regional_speciality

Small white navy beans slow-cooked in a ceramic pot with molasses, brown sugar, and salt pork or bacon. This dish gave Boston its nickname, 'Beantown,

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Boston Duck Tour tour_or_activity
Book 2–4 weeks in advance

This is a very popular, high-capacity tour, but tickets sell out quickly, especially on weekends and during warm weather months.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Boston Go City All-Inclusive or Explorer Pass Attraction
Book 2–4 weeks in advance

Purchasing a pass in advance allows for better planning of attractions and tours, some of which require reservations with the pass number.

High-Demand Historical Tours (e.g., Freedom Trail, specialized walking tours) tour_or_activity
Book 2–6 weeks in advance

Popular tours, especially those with limited capacity or specific historical focus, can sell out, particularly during peak tourist season.

Dining Reservations at Top Restaurants Dining
Book 3 weeks to 2 months in advance

Boston's most highly rated and critically acclaimed restaurants, particularly in areas like the North End or Back Bay, book out weeks ahead for prime dinner slots.

Accommodation in Prime Locations (e.g., Back Bay, Beacon Hill, North End) Accommodation
Book 2–6 months in advance

Boston has high demand due to business, tourism, and college events (e.g., graduations, parents' weekends), making prices surge and availability scarce during peak times.

Fun Facts

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