For years, the Big Dig-- Boston's project to bury the Central Artery that separated much of the city from its harborfront-- was a national joke because of cost and schedule overruns, to the point that when cab drivers in other cities heard where you were from, they'd say, "Big Dig, huh?," and roll their eyes.
Today, though, the Rose F. Kennedy Greenway, the long-planned park that now occupies the site of the old highway, is proving the doubters wrong. Meandering one mile from Chinatown up to the North End, the Greenway is dotted with plantings, sculptures, fountains, pathways, and food trucks. Officially open since 2008, it has gained more amenities with each passing year, making it a true destination; a new addition this year is the carousel, located near Faneuil Hall. Boston finally has its connection to the harbor back, and it's making the most of it.
My favorite portion of the Greenway lies between South Station and Dewey Square, through the Financial District. This area is unusually high-density by Boston standards, and since it's occupied by businesses all but empties out over the weekend. Walking down the pleasant, populated Greenway next to cliffs of empty skyscrapers is a true Boston experience.
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"Veggie Crust" in Boston is definitely not just another pizza joint; first off it's 100% vegetarian. They even have falafel pizza, and it's actually good!
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Cacao in Boston, run by a Dominican couple, offers rich hot chocolate, spicy cocoa, and delightful truffles — sweet haven for reading or writing.
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"Charles River Dam" in Boston, with the Musical Locks, is a great place to cross on my bike the water that separates Boston and Cambridge...
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"Hilton's Tent City" is where the Boston outdoorsmen of yore picked up their stuff before Goretex and GPS. I like that they have modern and classic brands.
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"Flat Black" in Boston makes Australian-style espresso. These guys roast their own beans in Dorchester and make the best carving designs into the milk!
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"Taza Chocolate" Boston - a chocolate factory, but I'll resist the urge to make a Willy Wonka reference. In this shop they make it in the Mexican tradition
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"Sound Bites" in Boston has a reputation. I also have a personal, touching story that has made me really like this breakfast cafe. I'll share it with you.
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"China Fair" is my first stop in Boston when I need everyday tools, like cocktail spoons! Here, cooking is work, and they sell you tools for cheap.
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"Brooklyn Boulders" is a solid addition to the climbing scene in Boston. Of course the choice to set up show in this specific street is deliberate & edgy.
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"Puritan & Company" in Boston is a brunch spot when the day calls for luxury. The reason I go to this cafe is to indulge on their pastry basket...
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"Artisan's Asylum" in Boston is a former warehouse that has been taken over by a collective of engineers and craftspeople. I just think they're crazy good!
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109 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 109 Insider Tips from our local Spotters