Boston is the capital of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the state’s largest city, and the location of several key events of the American Revolution, such as the Boston Massacre, the Boston Tea Party, the Battle of Bunker Hill and the Siege of Boston.
Boston is much more than the birthplace of the American’s fight for freedom; Boston is a modern city in its own right and has deep culture throughout its communities. For those travelling on a budget, Hostelling International Boston has revolutionized the world of hostels, as a state-of-the-art green building, designed with hostellers in mind. Guests can join HI-Boston’s daily programs and meet other guests while being shown around by a local. HI-Boston also brings entertainment into the hostel. It is a place for guests to connect and learn about each other, make new friends and create new experiences.
It is located in the centre of Boston, on the border of the Theatre District and Chinatown. Although the building and location can’t be beat, the best part of HI-Boston is the experience it provides. HI-Boston provides accommodations to the modern budget traveler by offering dormitory style rooms with 4-to-8 beds. Individual private bathrooms are located outside each room in the hallway. The hostel has 480 beds and 22 private rooms with ensuite bathrooms.
Explore the History
Boston is a walking city. On a nice day there is no better way to explore the historic sights of Paul Revere’s house, Faneuil Hall, and John Hancock’s grave than by following the red line of the Freedom Trail. If American naval history is of more interest, a visit to the USS Constitution is a must see. “Old Ironsides” is the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat. Boston history is diverse and it is quite possible that Bostonians’ favorite historical landmark is comparatively quite new, Fenway Park. Fenway is home to Boston’s beloved baseball team the Boston Red Sox, and is the oldest major league baseball field in operation in the U.S.
Explore the Action
There is much more to Boston than monuments and cemeteries. The city has a variety of museums and attractions that are sure to entertain. The New England Aquarium and the Boston Science Museum offer interactive exhibits, IMAX movies and live presentations. If you would prefer to see animals in their natural habitat, a whale watch allows you to see them up close. Feel the need to relax? Explore Boston Common and Boston Public Garden; both parks are within walking distance from HI-Boston.
Explore the Culture
Boston is made of many neighborhoods, all with their own feel. HI-Boston sits on the border of Chinatown and the Theater District. Chinatown is rich in culture and attracts Asian-Americans from around the area. The Theater District has several venues offering Broadway productions and independent shows. Boston’s North End is “Little Italy” and is filled with charm, character and exceptional cuisine. South Boston, nicknamed “Southie,” comes alive during March when the Irish-American community celebrates St. Patrick’s Day. The South End, not to be confused with South Boston, is home to quaint coffee shops, cafes and outdoor markets. Back Bay and Beacon Hill are neighborhoods filled with intricately designed brownstones, shops and restaurants. Combined, these communities give Boston its charm and diversity.
Cape Cod
With warm sea breezes, 900 km of unspoiled coastline and breathtaking scenic vistas, Cape Cod makes a perfect complement for visitors after cosmopolitan Boston. Beyond the beaches, there’s plenty of outdoor adventures to be found and it’s also one of the nation’s top 25 arts destinations. New this summer, visitors can take The CapeFLYER train from Boston to Cape Cod in just two and a half hours. The train will run weekends between Memorial Day and Labour Day. Also new this year is the Kennedy Legacy Trail, a self guided 2.6 km trail open year round, celebrating the significant role the Kennedy’s played in shaping the history of Hyannis and Cape Cod.
More information on Boston can be found here, and more on the State of Massachusetts here.