Discover our locals' 128 hidden gems in Boston

Let's go! Dive into Boston’s local scene with Spotted by Locals! From historic trails less travelled and local favorite eateries to community events in Jamaica Plain, our Spotters show you the city’s charming atmosphere.

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City guides by those who know Boston best!

Knowing Boston in and out!

Our Boston Cityguide - Made by Locals

Know your way in Boston like a local!

Spotted by Locals

✓ Discover Boston through the eyes of a local!

✓ Hidden gems that can’t be found in traditional guidebooks

✓ Our locals share their personal favorite spots in Boston

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Check out our latest hidden gems in Boston

Things to do in Boston

Red’s Best Fish Market

Must-Try Seafood

Craving seafood in Boston? Head to Red’s Best at Boston Public Market for fresh clam chowder, lobster rolls, and local catch you’ll love!

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Restaurants
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Shopping
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Snacks

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Glass Flowers

A Botanical Masterpiece in Glass

The Harvard Museum of Natural History's Glass Flowers exhibit showcases 4,300 stunning glass plant models, crafted by the Blaschkas between 1887 and 1936.

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Art & culture

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Union Park

The Perfect Residential Oasis

Union Park, located near downtown, was designed in the mid-19th century, inspired by English-style residential squares. Come for a tranquil retreat!

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Relaxing

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

The Puppet Free Library

Hidden Puppet Wonderland

Step into Boston’s Puppet Free Library on Newbury Street, where over 200 vibrant puppets await, spreading joy through lending since 1976.

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Art & culture

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Zinneken's Belgian Waffles

Boston's Waffle Gem

Zinneken’s in Harvard Square serves authentic Liege waffles with indulgent toppings. Cozy vibes, rich coffee, and the perfect sweet treat near Harvard University!

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Tiffany Windows

The Dazzling Legacy of Tiffany

Arlington Street Church in Boston houses the world's largest themed collection of Tiffany stained glass windows — an unmistakeble artistic marvel.

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Art & culture

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Zuzu’s Petals

A kingdom of sweets and wines!

Escape the rush at Zuzu’s Petals in Cambridge’s Inman Square — a cozy, screen-free haven for fondue, wine, conversation, and homemade delights.

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Bars
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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Rouvalis Flowers

Beacon Hill in Bloom

Rouvalis Flowers in Beacon Hill charms every season with stunning blooms, dried arrangements, and gifts — perfect for adding beauty to any Boston day.

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Shopping

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Cacao

A Sweet Escape in Boston

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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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Caffé Vittoria

Boston’s Timeless Italian Gem

Caffé Vittoria, Boston’s first Italian café since 1929, serves rich espresso, tiramisu, and affogato in a charming, old-world setting. A must-visit in the North End—cash only!

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Bakey

Memorable Fresh-Baked Treats

Enjoy fresh pastries from Bakey any morning and take it to the Public Garden. Don’t miss their irresistible chocolate babka and burekas!

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

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Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Greystone Cafe

Charming Café for Seize The Day

Greystone in Boston’s South End is a charming café with great coffee, fresh pastries, and a no-laptop vibe. Come here for a relaxed morning or lunch break!

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Apr 28, 2025

Heading to Boston?

128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

Going to Boston?

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

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What to expect?

Authentic & Unbiased Content

Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!

Go off the Beaten Path Gems

We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.

Responsible Travel

By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?

Hi! Nice to meet you.

We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.

Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.

With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.

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