Where to Stay in Boston
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Boston
North End
Mid-rangeBoston's oldest residential neighborhood, famous for its Italian heritage and culinary delights.
- +Incredible food scene (Italian)
- +Historic sites
- +Charming narrow streets
- -Can be extremely crowded, especially on weekends
- -Limited hotel options within the neighborhood itself
🛡️ Very safe during the day; generally safe at night due to foot traffic, but can feel a bit isolated on side streets.
Cambridge (Harvard Square)
Mid-rangeIntellectual hub with a vibrant student population, bookstores, and diverse eateries.
- +Lively atmosphere
- +Affordable dining options
- +Excellent public transport to Boston
- -Can be noisy due to student population
- -Hotels can be expensive
🛡️ Very safe during the day and night, with a constant presence of students and residents.
Beacon Hill
LuxuryHistoric charm meets upscale boutiques and cobblestone streets.
- +Quintessential Boston atmosphere
- +Beautiful architecture
- +Central location
- -Can be expensive
- -Limited dining diversity
🛡️ Generally very safe during the day; stick to well-lit main streets at night.
Back Bay
LuxuryElegant Victorian brownstones, high-end shopping, and a lively dining scene.
- +Excellent shopping and dining
- +Beautiful architecture
- +Good public transport access
- -Can feel very touristy
- -Expensive
🛡️ Safe during the day; generally safe at night on main streets, but be aware of surroundings.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 300/day
Hidden Gems in Boston
Lesser-known spots the locals love
The Warren Anatomical Museum
Part of Harvard Medical School, this fascinating museum showcases anatomical specimens and medical oddities, offering a unique and slightly macabre glimpse into medical history.
Piers Park
FREEThis gem offers stunning, unobstructed views of the Boston skyline and harbor from East Boston. It's a peaceful escape with walking paths and picnic areas.
Larz Anderson Auto Museum
Located in a beautiful old carriage house, this museum features a rotating collection of antique and classic automobiles, appealing to history buffs and car enthusiasts alike.
Safety in Boston
SafeSolo Female Travel
Boston is generally safe for solo females. Exercise typical big-city precautions: be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and trust your instincts.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Major tourist zones like Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and the North End are generally safe but can get quiet on side streets. Public transport runs reliably but can feel less secure late at night.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours, leading to requests for money.
- 2Fake petitions or charity collectors, especially around tourist hubs.
- 3Distraction thefts (e.g., someone spilling something on you) to steal your belongings.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Boston