Discover our locals' 128 hidden gems in Boston

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A City Guide made by Locals from 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.

Our Spotters from Boston:

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

Check out our latest hidden gems in Boston

Our latest Spots in Boston

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

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 2025

Schlesinger Library

A true hidden gem in Boston!

Don’t miss Schlesinger Library on Harvard’s campus, a hidden gem in Boston, for an enriching experience of women’s works. Look for original manuscripts!

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Art & culture

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 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

Sep 4, 2025

Sip of Joy

A Cozy Coffee Haven in South End

Sip of Joy, a cozy family-run café in South End, blends Turkish and American flavors, offering flawless coffee, pastries, and a peaceful retreat.

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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 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.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 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.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 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.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 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

Sep 4, 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

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 2025

Gypsy Place Coffee and Juice Bar

Bohemian Vegan

Gypsy Place in Cambridge offers a bohemian vibe, fresh juices, vegan treats, and great coffee. Try the Azurite Bowl or Tiger’s Eye Truffles for a delicious energy boost!

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Bars
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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 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
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 2025

Regina Pizzeria

Iconic North End Slice

Regina Pizzeria in Boston’s North End has served legendary pizza since 1926. The white pizza is a must-try! Expect a wait, but it’s worth every bite.

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Restaurants

by

Sara

Bozdemir

Sep 4, 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

... for just €9.99

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.

As featured on:

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Made with the 💚 of 496 Spotters.
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