Boston/Downtown

Downtown Boston is really the heart of the city. Boston City Hall is located here and many powerful companies and agencies are headquartered in the area. Since urban planning was done here before the advent of the automobile, this area of town has secured a decidedly European flavor. Here you'll find pedestrian focused streets, large public green spaces, street performers and historic sites all connected by an efficient public transit system. If you're looking for the adjacent Italian American neighborhood with great food, head on over to the Boston/North_End|North End. If you want nearby Boston Common and the State House instead, start exploring Boston/Back_Bay-Beacon_Hill|Back Bay & Beacon Hill.

Boston/Downtown Halal Travel Guide

USA-Old_South_Meeting_House - Contradiction juxtaposed

Boston's nickname as the "Hub" makes more sense once you visit downtown. The population balloons during the day as hundreds of thousands of office workers and tourists descend on the area. The Massachusetts State Government maintains its seat in nearby Beacon Hill, but most state employees work out of office buildings around Government Center, where City Hall is also located. Downtown is home to major shopping areas, many of Boston's most famous historic sites and plenty of major private employers. The financial and legal industry in the city is still largely based here, although some have decamped to nicer and newer space in the Seaport.

The area now known as Downtown used to comprise most of the City of Boston, aside from the North End and Beacon Hill. Places like Charlestown and Dorchester were originally separate towns. Boston was founded in 1628 on a head of land sticking out into the harbor, connected to the mainland only by a thin strip of land which is today called Washington St. Other Boston neighborhoods were created through filling in marshland or annexing neighboring towns. Boston was a hotbed of the American Revolution, being home to now famous patriots like John Adams, Sam Adams and John Hancock. Important pre-revolutionary events like the Boston Tea Party and Boston Massacre happened in what is now Downtown.

After the war, Boston continued to be an important seaport and trading center. Until the 1860s and 70s, Downtown was pretty much all there was to the city. During this period, it expanded dramatically and outgrew its old borders, but Downtown remained the hub, although it is one of the northernmost parts of the city. Much of Downtown burned down in the Great Fire of 1872, tragically taking some of the city's older buildings with it. This area is now the main financial neighborhood and is mostly modern skyscrapers. In the 1950s the Central Artery, an elevated highway, was built through downtown, cutting off the waterfront from the rest of downtown. At a cost of $15 billion, it was buried during the "Big Dig" in the 1990s and early 2000s and Downtown is now reunited with its waterfront.

Chinatown

Chinatown was built on a landfill, though thit is no longer apparent; what now identifies this area is the truly mixed uses of land. Residential properties co-exist with family owned and operated businesses and local institutions.

Bay Village

One of the smallest neighborhoods in Boston, about 6 square blocks around Piedmont Street east of Arlington. After the original mud flats were drained in the early 1800s, many craftsmen involved in the construction of Beacon Hill's premier residences built their own modest but well-crafted houses here. Consequently and there are many architectural similarities between these two neighborhoods. It wasn't until the Prohibition years (1920s) that Bay Village got its bohemian ambiance. It has now become the center for Boston's community.

Leather District

Bounded by Chinatown to the West, South Station to the east and the Financial District to the north and Kneeland Street to the south, this neighborhood was the home of leather production and sales during the 19th century. It consists of a series of buildings constructed in the Classic Revival and Romanesque styles, largely between 1880 and 1920. Visually similar to SoHo, New York, it has been used for numerous films and advertisements as a stand-in location. The Leather District is a mixed use community, home to loft apartments, ramen joints and French bistros. The As South Station, a major bus, commuter rail, train and subway terminal, defines its eastern boundary, it is often visited by people entering or exiting the city.

Travel to Boston/Downtown

By foot

Walking is by far the preferred way to get around this area, as most everything you'd want to see is relatively packed in together. The train stations are only separated by a few minutes walk and you'll find it's often faster to just walk directly to your destination without heading underground. Walking also affords the opportunity to explore the variety of urban parks, architecture and quirky street patterns that have gracefully developed over time. Walking around downtown is in many ways what visitors come here to experience in the first place.

How to take public transportation in Boston/Downtown

Government_Center_station_on_reopening_day,_March_2016 - Government Center station the day it reopened in 2016

Downtown is easily the best connected area in the city. Boston operates on a "hub and spoke" philosophy and thit is clearly the hub for a variety of modes of transport. Amtrak makes two stops here and the massive South Station offers connections to NYC, Chicago and beyond. Also featuring rail connections is North Station, serving coastal points within Maine and New Hampshire. See Boston#By train for details. These two stations are also the terminal for all Commuter Rail travel within the region, see Boston#By commuter rail for more detailed descriptions.

By subway

The Green line is perhaps the most helpful for visitors, running close to much of the Freedom Trail and the North End. Stops include North Station, Haymarket, Government Center, Park Street and Boylston. The Orange line is a great alternative, because it closely parallels the Green line while downtown. Stations include: North Station, Haymarket, State, Downtown Crossing, Chinatown and Tufts Medical Center. The Red line is also quite popular, if you're near it, it can be great for getting across town. Red stops include: Charles/MGH, Park Street, Downtown Crossing and South Station along the way. The Blue line is good for getting to the Aquarium, but it is primarily used by residents and not tourists. This line begins at tiny Bowdoin then visits Government Center, State and Aquarium stations before diving under the harbor.

Almost every station downtown serves more than one line and transferring between them is quick and painless. Walking between the Green, Orange and Red lines is pretty easy, an underground walkway connects Park Street and Downtown Crossing stations. Much to the displeasure of Bostonians and there is no direct connection between North and South Station. It can take 20-30 minutes to transfer between the two, so take that (along with your luggage) into account. You'll also find the Blue and Red lines are similarly disconnected and will need to use the Orange or Green lines to transfer between them.

Travel on a Bus in Boston/Downtown

There are a few options for busses downtown, but the narrow and congested streets render this option "not great". The Silver line SL4 and SL5 routes are the most popular as far as busses go. Think of the Silver line as a handy way to reach downtown, but it's not great for moving around within the area. Both lines visit Tufts Medical Center and Chinatown, while the SL4 continues on to South Station and the SL5 loops around Downtown Crossing.

The routes #4, #7 and #11 all serve the area, but don't run frequently and have to compete with everyone else for what little space is available. Haymarket is the main terminal for local busses downtown. The #92, #93 and #111 routes head into Boston/Charlestown|Charlestown and then keep going into Somerville and Chelsea_(Massachusetts) | Chelsea. Another handful of busses: #424, #426, #428, #434 and #450, all leave Haymarket bound for various points along the North Shore. Still more busses depart from South Station; the #448, #449 and #459 all roll towards either the Airport or other destinations along the North Shore.

Travel by boat to Boston/Downtown

NYC 585 (6730208889) - Busy Long Wharf

There are two main wharves that provide public transport by sea to key locations around town. Long Wharf is the most popular; offering MBTA connections to the Boston/Charlestown|Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston/East_Boston|Logan Airport, Hingham and Hull_(Massachusetts) | Hull, as well as a seasonal ferry to Salem_(Massachusetts) | Salem. Boston Harbor Cruises offers other seasonal ferries, decamping to the Boston Harbor Islands, or heading out to Provincetown. They also provide harbor cruises, whale watch tours and others that all depart from Long Wharf.

Rowes Wharf offers a few additional options. There is another ferry from here to Hingham and a seasonal one to Winthrop_(Massachusetts) | Winthrop. There are also more private boats and other pleasure craft available for rent that dock here.

Water taxis are plentiful all along the waterfront, servicing 28 different points between downtown, Boston/South Boston|South Boston, East Boston and Charlestown.

How to travel to Boston/Downtown by car

You'll find a vehicle to be more liability than boon here. Do not drive downtown unless you know exactly what you're doing, where you're going and how you're parking. Traffic is horrendous, parking barely exists and the streets aren't even designed for cars in the first place. There are a few garages in the area, most scattered between Government Center and the Aquarium. Garaged parking is expensive, it can be around $12-15/hour and $40-50/day (when it's available). Those figures could double or even triple in peak season or during special events.

What to see in Boston/Downtown

Architecture

Old City Hall, Boston (493551) (11061696346) - Converted to office space, Old City Hall stands adjacent to Pi Alley

• Boston City Hall - City Hall Plaza | 1 City Hall Plaza 42.3603, -71.058 T: Government Center ☎ +1 617 635-4500 Opening 8:30AM Monday - 5PM Free Boston City Hall - Boston City Hall - This area used to be known as Scollay Plaza and was demolished in the 1960s to build a new city hall for the city of Boston. The Hall is a hulking Brutalist architecture and an expansive brick plaza, contrasting sharply with the Fanueil Hall facade directly behind it. Some people love the bold choice of color, form and materials. Everyone else hates it and considers it to be an eyesore of the first degree. The windswept plaza was mostly deserted until the city began holding seasonal events, festivals and sports viewings here. Life is slowly creeping back to the center after Government Center station was rebuilt and plans to make the area more pedestrian friendly are ongoing.

• New England Aquarium Central Wharf 42.359017, -71.050683 Blue Line to Aquarium ☎ +1 617 973-5200 Opening 9AM Monday - 5PM, Saturday Sunday 9AM Monday - 6PM $27.95, Senior 60+ $25.95, Ages 3–11 $18.95 New England Aquarium Home of what was until recently the world's largest fish tank, according to the Guinness Book of World Records and the New England Aquarium offers a riveting museum experience which showcases an incredible variety of fish and other types of animals. After recent expansions, it now also has a humongous IMAX theatre, whale-watching tours operating from its pier and a marine mammal arena out back. It also is known for its penguins, which are a fascinating experience even on their own. It's well worth a visit.

• Old City Hall 45 School Street 42.358111, -71.059331 T: State ☎ +1 617 523-8678 - Old City Hall (Boston) Old City Hall (Boston) 83686 Old City Hall, unlike the current city hall, is undeniably beautiful. This Second Empire style building was built in 1865 and served as Boston's City Hall until 1969. It has since been converted to office space and also houses an expensive Steaks house. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and is a much touted example of adaptive re-use in architecture.

Colonial

USA-Faneuil_Hall - Interior of the great Fanueil Hall

• Faneuil Hall - The Cradle of Liberty | 42.359987, -71.056315 T: State - Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 5PM daily Free Faneuil Hall - Faneuil Hall Boston Massachusetts - First built in 1742 as a market building adjacent to a busy waterfront dock. Town meetings held here between 1764 and 1774 heard Samuel Adams and others lead cries of protest against the imposition of taxes on the American colonies. The building was enlarged in 1806. Social justice leaders like Frederick Douglass, William Lloyd Garrison and Lucy Stone brought their struggles for freedom here in the 19th century. A museum and gift shop dominate the first floor. Most people pronounce it with two syllables like "FAN-yull", while a minority prefer the three syllable "fan-YOU-ull" pronunciation. You'll be fine as long as you don't say anything crazy like "fa-KNEW-lee".

• King's Chapel 64 Beacon Street 42.358056, -71.06 T: Government Center ☎ +1 617 523-1749 Opening Hours: 10AM Monday - 4PM daily, closed Tuesday Thursday during winter $2 suggested donation King's Chapel Kings chapel boston 2009h 39921 - Founded as an Anglican congregation in 1686. The first church burned down, of course and today's building of stone dates from 1754. The churches' bell was forged in England and hung high in the belfry during 1772. Cracked in 1814, it was recast by Paul Revere and would be the largest—and final—bell ever to make its way out of his foundry. The bell is still rung during church services today.

• Old South Meeting House 310 Washington Street 42.356944, -71.058611 T: State ☎ +1 617 482-6439 Opening Hours: 9:30AM Monday - 5PM (April - Oct), 10AM Monday - 4PM (November - Mar) $6 for adults, $5 age 62+, $5 students with ID, $1 age 5-17 Old South Meeting House - Bost South Meeting house CIMG0607 - Built in 1729, this church has been an important meeting place for centuries. Famous today due to events during 1773, when colonists used the space to organize what would become known as the Boston Tea Party. Almost destroyed by the fire of 1872, Bostonians saved the structure and it's now an important stop on the Freedom Trail.

• Old State House 206 Washington Street 42.358778, -71.057528 T: State ☎ +1 617 720-1713 Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 5PM daily $10, seniors and students $8.50. Kids, US Military and veterans free Old State House (Boston) - USA Old State House 1 MA -QQ0533 - Construction financed by the King of England in 1713, this was the longtime seat of government in Boston and remains its oldest public building. The Boston Massacre took place just in front of the State House and in 1776 the Declaration of Independence was first read to Bostonians from the balcony. Saved from demolition in 1882 and the building has housed numerous tenants and seen many faithful restorations over the years. For example the lion and unicorn statues—symbols of the monarchy—were replaced after being burned during a period of revolutionary zeal in 1776. Every 4th of July and the Declaration of Independence is read aloud once more from the same balcony.

Landmarks

• Boston Stone 8 Marshall Street 42.36185, -71.0567 T: Haymarket - Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free Boston Stone - Originally imported from England in the 17th century by a painter, today you can see the Boston Stone embedded in the foundation of a building in the Historic Blackstone District. No one really knows its exact function, or why it was placed there. The current theory is that it's 18th century advertising for the shops and stores along this historic street; or a sort of London Stone copycat.

• Chinatown Gate - Paifang Gate | Beach Street 42.351164, -71.059699 T: Chinatown - Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free Boston Chinatown Paifang - Found at the junction of Beach Street and Surface Road thit is the most visible symbol of Chinatown for tourists. The urban plaza on the east side of the gate was built as part of the Big Dig highway project.

• Governor’s Alley Bosworth Street 42.356922, -71.060113 T: Park Street - Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free Walk up these oddly placed steps just as British Royal Governors would have done 300 years ago. At one time they led up to a sumptuous governor's mansion, although George Washington put a stop to that in 1775. Today you'll find the Marliave's al fresco dining patio awaiting you in summer and an unsightly dumpster or two when it's cold. Check the plaques for more information.

• Irish Famine Memorial Washington and School Street 42.357359, -71.058599 T: Downtown Crossing - Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free Irish Famine Memorial - panoramio - Two statues commemorate the 1845 Irish Famine, depicting a starving Irish family on their knees and a well fed family walking away. The natural rise of the land here is used to great effect by the sculptor. As you walk up or down from the statues, it's easy to empathize with the predicament of either family. The physical pain of starvation and the emotional pain of leaving loved ones behind are each masterfully rendered in bronze.

• New England Holocaust Memorial 98 Union Street 42.3613, -71.0573 T: State ☎ +1 617 457-8755 Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial, boston 2 - - A glass memorial built in a small park near Fanueil Hall, inspired by survivors who resettled in Boston.

• Spring Lane 42.357422, -71.057794 T: State - Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free Get off the Freedom Trail for a second and spend a minutes reading plaques in this narrow alley. Beneath your feet once flowed clean spring water used by the residents of Boston for hundreds of years. The lane runs parallel to Water Street so you know it's for real. Several other notes relating to Boston's history adorn adjacent building walls, if you're interested. Use caution during the evening, however, as the homeless sometimes use this semi-protected area as a campsite.

Parks

Post Office Plaza in Boston 143042168 - Lounging around in Post Office Plaza

• Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park 42.360986, -71.051652 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 781 639-6002 Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free ColumbusPark Boston 2009 - Check out the cool trellis and free Wi-Fi.

• King's Chapel Burying Ground 58 Tremont Street 42.358003, -71.059994 T: Government Center ☎ +1 617 523-1749 Opening Hours: 10AM Monday - 4:30PM daily Free King's Chapel Burying Ground =2006Boston002 - - Predating King's Chapel, this cemetery was founded in 1630 and is the oldest in Boston. Notable figures buried here include: John Winthrop, first governor of Massachusetts, Mary Chilton the first European woman to step ashore in New England and Elizabeth Pain, whose headstone supposedly inspired the book The Scarlet Letter.

• Post Office Plaza - Norman B. Leventhal Park | 42.3563, -71.0557 T: State ☎ +1 617 423-1500 Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free Post Office Plaza, Boston Post office square, from Robert N. Dennis collection of stereoscopic views 2 - Post Office Plaza is a tranquil oasis in the middle of Downtown. In the late 1980s, a decrepit parking garage was torn down and a public park was created on the site, funded by a privately operated parking garage underground. A hub of activity during the day, office workers take their lunch beneath the trees, while yoga classes and other activities make use of the open greenspace. The square is not very crowded in the evening and on weekends, but you may run into a wedding photography shoot.

• Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway - The Greenway | 42.3572, -71.0513 ☎ +1 617 292-0020 Opening Hours: 24 hours daily Free Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway - After Aerial Photo of Greenway 067553 - The Greenway is a public park running along the route of the former Central Artery and the road that was buried during the big dig. Instead of developing the land freed up by the new tunnel and the city turned it into a public park running in an arc around Downtown. There are numerous art installations and seating areas, fountains for kids to play in and even a carousel.

Quincy Market

Quincy Market summer evening 2016 - Sure it's a little cheesy, but the Market's charms are undeniable.

• Quincy Market - Faneuil Hall Marketplace | 4 South Market Building 42.36, -71.055 T: State ☎ +1 617 523-1300 Opening from Monday to Saturday 10AM Monday - 9PM, Sunday noon-6PM Free Quincy Market Quincy Market panoramic.jpg|1280px]]

Dating from 1825, Quincy Market was built during a growing economy as a way to increase the number of shops and markets available to Bostonians. The market space available in Faneuil Hall just wasn't enough, so the small pier behind the building was filled in to create land for a larger new market. Quincy Market has been used as a marketplace for produce and foodstuffs throughout its life and was beautifully restored in the 1970s. The original hall is today a glorified food court, while the North Market and South Market buildings hold a variety of little shops. Replete with performance artists, thit is clearly the center of tourist activity in the city. Even if it's not your cup of tea, Quincy Market is still worth a visit just to soak up the history.

The central original brick and granite building contains two enormous hallways packed with food stalls, with a central atrium tying the wings together and providing two levels of seating. If you are eating here there is unfortunately little high quality fare to be found, but you do have a few options. Gourmet India is the spot to go for a quick Indian fix. Something called Mmmac N' Cheese is great if you're looking for something with a few more carbs. Also, Boston Chowda Co serves an acceptable clam chowder for a chain.

If you can splash out a little more or want to sit down, try the Japanese inspired Wagamama by the south entrance. Flagship of tourism Cheers Boston is here too, because well, where else would it be? Thit is the location where the interior looks like the TV show. Check out the original one on Beacon Hill for the exterior look. For something completely different visit JJ Donovan's. This old school Irish tavern is cash only and can be an oasis of calm for those looking to escape the crowded marketplace. Family owned and they routinely refuse million dollar buy out offers. It's not fancy, it's traditional and the owners like it that way.

For shopping, you'll move to the North and South Market buildings. Check out 1630 for gifts made by artisans using techniques known to the first European colonists. You'll also find antiques and collectables, sourced from around New England so you can own a piece of the history. For all of your Boston sports paraphernalia needs investigate Lucys League to find officially licensed clothing for your favorite team. The usual suspects found in any respectable mall are here as well, like Banana Republic, Urban Outfitters and Yankee Candle. Popular streetwear shop Uniqlo also occupies the second floor of Quincy Market.

Halal Tours and Excursions in Boston/Downtown

• Freedom_Trail|The Freedom Trail — A major tourist draw of significant historical sites in Boston. These 17 locations spread over two and a half miles are crucial to understanding revolutionary perioid America. Many are located here.

Top Travel Tips

Theatres

• Boston Opera House 539 Washington Street 42.3542, -71.0627 T: Chinatown ☎ +1 617 259-3400 - Boston Opera House (1980) - BF Keith Memorial Theatre, Boston interior - Opened in 1928 as a movie theater, it was rededicated as a performing arts venue in 1980 and was most recently restored in 2004. The Boston Ballet is the primary offering here.

• Charles Playhouse 74 Warrenton Street 42.349980, -71.066183 T: Tufts Medical Center ☎ +1 617 426-6912 Charles Playhouse - Boston MA Charles Playhouse Performances of the Blue Man Group and Shear Madness play here. The building first opened in 1839 as a church and was converted to a performing arts space in 1957.

• Cutler Majestic Theatre 219 Tremont Street 42.3516, -71.0651 T: Boylston ☎ +1 617 824-8000 Cutler Majestic Theatre =2009 Emerson Majestic Theatre Boston 3599607642 Performing arts owned by Emerson College. Originally designed for opera performances in 1903.

• Orpheum Theatre 1 Hamilton Pl 42.3562, -71.0608 T: Park Street ☎ +1 617 482-0106 - Orpheum Theatre (Boston) =2008 Orpheum Boston - Originally built in 1852, The Orpheum is one of the oldest theaters in America and was the original home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Seats 2,700 after many substantial rebuilds, most recently in 2009.

• Paramount 559 Washington Street 42.3537, -71.0628 T: Chinatown ☎ +1 617 824-8000 Paramount Theatre (Boston, Massachusetts) Paramount Theatre, Boston MA Performing arts owned by Emerson College. Thit is the Art-Deco one opened in the 1930s as a movie theater. Two smaller spaces are here as well and the 150 seat Black Box Theatre and a 170 seat screening room.

• Shubert Theatre - Boch Center | 265 Tremont Street 42.3504, -71.0651 T: Tufts Medical Center ☎ +1 866 348-9738 - Shubert Theatre (Boston) - Boston MA Shubert Theatre

• Wang Theatre - Boch Center | 270 Tremont Street 42.350278, -71.065556 T: Tufts Medical Center ☎ +1 617 482-9393 Wang Theatre - Boston MA Wang Theatre 67635 Opened in 1925 and seats over 3,600 people.

• Wilbur Theatre 246 Tremont Street 42.350556, -71.065556 T: Tufts Medical Center ☎ +1 617 248-9700 Wilbur Theatre - Boston MA Wilbur Theatre Comedy and music venue.

Tours

DUKW_in_River - Duck tours are great but please take it easy with all the quacking

• Boston Duck Tours - 1 Central Wharf 42.358923, -71.050574 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 450-0068 Opening Hours: March - Nov 9AM Monday - sunset $40 adult, $33 seniors, $27 kids 3-11, $11 infants & toddlers. Add $2 per ticket if you book online and $4 if you book over the phone Boston Duck Tours - An institution in their own right and these modified WWII DUKWs give a great, breezy, 80-minutes tour of the city by land and sea, all in the same vehicle. One of the most famous, or at least most visible, tours in Boston. Visitors will sing songs, quack like a duck and irritate passing Bostonians going about their business. It doesn't get any more tourist than this. Tours also depart from the Prudential Center and the Museum of Science.

• Boston Harbor Cruises One Long Wharf 42.359722, -71.050650 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 227-4321 Opening Hours: 5AM Monday - midnight, varies - Boston Harbor Cruises is the only real seagoing commercial compliment to the MBTA. They partnered with the New England Aquarium to offer a 90 minutes whale watch cruise for $53. If that sounds too tame and they also have something called Codzilla. It's kind of a harbor tour, except you're on a jet engine with seats. Go fast and get wet for $29. Finally they offer a bunch of different harbor cruises. Check out the USS Constitution from the water, investigate a few of Boston's lighthouses, or just watch the sun go down. Costs range anywhere from $23-66 depending on which one piques your interest. Special events are a bit fancier and more expensive, in 2017 some cruises touring the Tall Ships cost over $300!

• Boston Segway Tours 199 State Street T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 421-1234 Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 5PM daily $60 one hour, $90 two hours Everyone looks cool on a Segway. Right? Ticket price includes complimentary gloves (for your hands) and also water.

• Classic Harbor Line 60 Rowes Wharf T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 951-2460 Opening Hours: 10AM Monday - 9PM daily Around $40-75, special events $100-165 - Another good option to meet your harbor cruise needs. This company is a little fancier, with two ships for you to choose from. One is a sort of steamboat-inspired art-deco vessel, or opt instead for a schooner and head into the harbor under good old fashioned sail power.

• Mass Bay Lines 60 Rowes Wharf T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 542-8000 Opening 9AM Monday - 5PM, Saturday noon-9PM $22-45 - Another good option for harbor cruising.

• Old Town Trolley Tours 200 Atlantic Ave 42.36, -71.051588 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 269-7010 Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 5PM daily $18-41 depending on age and how you buy tickets - Little touristic trollies that make the rounds to all the major sights downtown. You can hop on and hop off all day with your ticket. They also offer a "haunted" trolley tour during evenings.

• Urban AdvenTours - 103 Atlantic Ave T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 670-0637 Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 9AM Monday - 6PM Bicycle tours of Boston for families, students and visitors. Also offers a bicycle shop for repairs and sells various necessities for your two-wheeled vehicle.

Events

• Lantern Festival is celebrated during the Chinese New Year, which is first day of the first month on the Chinese calendar and lasts until the 15th day. Throughout the celebration and there are more street and food vendors than usual, fireworks and firecrackers. There are also several performances including the Lion dance and or parade, students of the local schools and musical performances. This event takes place in the main streets of Chinatown.
• August Moon Festival, also called the Autumn Festival, takes place during 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese calendar. It’s the largest festival of the year. Performances, music, arts and crafts will sometimes be available. Every year varies. Also takes place in the main streets of Chinatown.

• Boston Arts Festival Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park T: Aquarium - Art in the park during the beginning of September.

Shopping in Boston/Downtown

• Boston Public Market 100 Hanover Street 42.362270, -71.057382 T: Haymarket ☎ +1 617 973-4909 Opening from Monday to Saturday 8AM Monday - 8PM, Sunday 10AM Monday - 8PM Boston Public Market - Boston Public Market Exterior A This year-round market features vendors of high quality goods and comestibles from across New England. It's a great place, but with this location and quality be prepared to pay a little extra. Some of the stalls here sell a fantastic assortment of old fashioned Yankee craftsmanship. American Stonecraft is an artisanal producer of dishes, coasters, food slates and such. All made from stones pulled from farm fields in the region. A producer of fine wood products, Peterman's Boards and Bowls are made from fallen or discarded timber. While Hopsters Alley features a selection of New England and spirits. This store is run by a brewery of the same name and offers growler fills here as well. Explore the rest of the Market for more local and organic produce, artisanal tea shops, Noodles houses, chocolatiers, bakers, cheesemongers and butchers.

• Brattle Book Shop 9 West St. 42.3549, -71.0625 T: Downtown Crossing ☎ +1 617 542-0210 Opening from Monday to Saturday 9AM Monday - 5:30 Three floor used and rare book store with an outdoor bargain area set up in a neighboring alley. Brattle Book Shop was founded in 1825 and is one of the oldest book shops in the nation.

• Commonwealth Books 9 Spring Ln 42.3574, -71.058 T: State ☎ +1 617 338-6328 Opening from Monday to Saturday 10AM Monday - 7PM, Sunday 11AM Monday - 5PM Fantastic bookstore downtown selling antique, rare, used and new tomes. Particular emphasis on subjects like: the arts, architecture, history, literature, philosophy and religion. You can also find other exclusive treasures here, like old maps, engravings and manuscripts. Even just walking down this street and looking around is an experience.

• Primark 10 Summer Street 42.3556, -71.06 T: Downtown Crossing ☎ +1 617 350-5232 Opening from Monday to Saturday 8AM Monday - 9:30PM Come to America to buy affordable clothes from an Irish retailer who sells products made in Mauritius andBangladesh! In all seriousness and these fast fashions are cheap. Like eerily cheap. You'll get a great deal, but don't expect these clothes to last for years.

• Kenmore Army & Navy Stores 477 Washington Street 42.355, -71.061 T: Downtown Crossing ☎ +1 617 292-2769 Opening from Monday to Saturday 9:30AM Monday - 7PM, Sunday noon-6PM Fulfill all your surplus military needs at this branch of the Army/Navy store. You'll find the usual run of pants, shirts, uniforms, boots and outerwear. What really makes this place special is the odder items, like flame retardant jumpsuits (including face mask!), army rations, various nettings and empty ammo canisters.

• Joseph Gann Jewelers 387 Washington Street 42.3563, -71.06 T: Downtown Crossing ☎ +1 617 426-4932 Opening Hours: Monday - West 9AM Monday - 6PM, Thursday 9AM Monday - 7PM, Friday 9AM Monday - 4PM, Saturday 9:30AM Monday - 5PM Classy jewelry, watches, crystal and other high end items. A relative "newcomer" on the scene, this place offers a better selection than the storied E.B. Horn just down the street.

• Ministry of Supply HQ 105 South Street 42.351498, -71.057413 T: South Station ☎ +1 617 936-4980 Opening 11AM Monday - 6PM Dress shirts from $95 - Headquarters of an upscale menswear shop in the Leather District.

• Blank Label 36 Bromfield St, Suite #204 42.356575, -71.060456 T: Downtown Crossing ☎ +1 781 236-3559 Opening from Monday to Saturday 9AM Monday - 7PM Dress shirts from $95 - Custom fitted bespoke menswear. Suits, jackets, vests, trenchcoats, you name it.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Boston/Downtown

Downtown is not Boston's culinary epicenter. Truly exciting restaurants tend to be located in outlying neighborhoods due to the high costs of real estate downtown and the weird demographics (filled with office workers and tourists during the day, deserted at night). Because of this, visitors to the city who mostly stay Downtown may think that Boston is living up to the tired New England stereotype of bland cuisine. This couldn't be further from the truth, so leaving Downtown to eat is a must when visiting. While there are a lot of truly forgettable places to eat Downtown, it's not all bad. With a little research you should be able to find a quality Halal food at whatever price point you're seeking.

• Shawarma Falafel 26 Province Street 42.357209, -71.059628 T: Park Street ☎ +1 857 265-3017 Opening from Monday to Saturday 8AM Monday - 9PM $7-10 Busy Lebanese falafel shop.

Coffee

When downtown, you're probably within sight of a Dunks' or a Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.), if not try turning around. But you didn't come here to drink national chain coffee did you? Try one of these (sort of) local options instead. They almost always offer free Wi-Fi too, if that sweetens the deal for you.

• Boston Brewin Coffee 45 Bromfield Street 42.356980, -71.060535 T: Park Street ☎ +1 857 302-0859 Opening 7AM Monday - 4PM - Coffee shop dedicated to paying it's employees a livable wage and donates all its profits to local charities chosen by clients.

• Boston Common Coffee Company - 10 High Street 42.353558, -71.056763 T: South Station ☎ +1 617-542-0595 Opening 6AM Monday - 5PM All mains under $10 - Provides a comforting atmosphere. A great place to get fresh Coffee, soups and salads and fresh pastries.

• Caffe Nero 560 Washington Street 42.353378, -71.062006 T: Chinatown ☎ +1 617 936-3432 Opening Hours: 6:30AM Monday - 9:30PM daily - The first U.S. location of a popular British coffee chain

• Espresso Love 33 Broad Street 42.358386, -71.054476 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 857 284-7462 Opening 6:30AM Monday - 6PM - Not only your morning java, but lots of great soups and sandwiches. Fresh cookies and other delicious treats are baked on site daily.

• Gracenote Coffee 108 Lincoln St. 42.351544, -71.058033 T: South Station - Opening 7AM Monday - 4:30PM, Saturday 9AM Monday - 4PM, Sunday 9AM Monday - 3PM - Featuring a standing espresso bar, this shop features two takes on the drink daily. They also offer drip coffee and a few Snacks from local bakeries. Gracenote roasts their own and sells the product to a number of local restaurants.

• Ogawa Coffee 10 Milk Street 42.356740, -71.058105 T: State ☎ +1 617 780-7139 Opening 7AM Monday - 6PM, Saturday Sunday 10AM Monday - 6PM - First U.S. location of an upscale Japanese coffee chain.

• Render Coffee 121 Devonshire Street 42.357066, -71.057319 T: State ☎ +1 617 401-2421 Opening 7AM Monday - 7PM - Also a maker space with laser cutters, 3D printers and a CNC machine for rent.

• Thinking Cup 165 Tremont Street 42.3536887, -71.0638884 ☎ +1 617-482-5555 A great place to get a cup of Coffee. The staff is young and hip, but they are always very friendly, upbeat and professional. They offer an array of sandwiches and baked goods.

• Flat Black Coffee Company ☎ +1 617 951-1440 $2-5 - This Boston/Dorchester|Dorchester based company is a great place to get fresh coffees from around the world. Most of their coffees are certified Organic, Shade Grown and Fair Trade.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Boston/Downtown

Boston/Downtown - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Boston/Downtown, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Boston/Downtown. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Boston/Downtown and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Boston/Downtown. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Boston/Downtown. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Boston/Downtown: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Boston/Downtown.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Boston/Downtown: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Boston/Downtown, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Boston/Downtown.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Boston/Downtown, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Boston/Downtown, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Boston/Downtown and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Boston/Downtown, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Boston/Downtown, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Boston/Downtown without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Boston/Downtown is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Boston/Downtown.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Boston/Downtown is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Boston/Downtown, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Boston/Downtown Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Boston/Downtown

eHalal Group Boston/Downtown is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Boston/Downtown. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Boston/Downtown.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Boston/Downtown ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Boston/Downtown. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Boston/Downtown, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Boston/Downtown are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan in Boston/Downtown

Ramadan 2025 in Boston/Downtown

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Go ahead and take a quick glance at the price points on offer here. Yeah. Sorry about that. Before you throw up your hands in total disgust, however, just know that a lot of these price points are only the quoted rack rates. For many of the spendier items here, try a hotel consolidator website or calling the hotel directly. You might see prices fall by 50% or more, especially if you can be flexible with your dates. Still and there's no way around the fact that you're looking at spending $300 and up for this area. Remember whatever rate you're quoted will be roughly 20% higher due to various taxes, fees and extra charges. Try looking into the Boston/Fenway-Kenmore|Fenway or Boston/Allston-Brighton|Allston if you need to bring costs down.

• Hostelling International Boston 19 Stuart Street 42.351101, -71.063468 T: Chinatown ☎ +1 617-536-9455 +1-888-464-4872 +1 617-426-2158 Check-in: 4PM / Check-out: 11AM Dorms $45-70, privates from $220. $3 nightly fee for non-members - Communal kitchen, common areas, laundry facilities, meeting rooms and luggage storage. There is a maximum stay of 14 nights per calendar year.

• Boston Furnished Apartments 120 Milk Street 42.357954, -71.054218 T: State ☎ +1 617 357-6900 From $90 - Boston Furnished Apartments is a furnished apartment rental agency, offering an alternative to a hotel room. These rentals are private homes, condos or apartments in residential buildings within the Back Bay, Beacon Hill, North End, South End and Financial District neighborhoods. There are monthly, weekly and nightly rentals available. The homes range in size from smaller studios to one or two bedroom apartments and all have fully equipped kitchens and private bathrooms. Thit is a unique way to experience the city like a Bostonian, in a brownstone home. Rental paperwork is required and most credit cards are accepted.

• Found Hotel 78 Charles Street South 42.349945, -71.066439 T: Tufts Medical Center ☎ +1 617 426-6220 Check-in: 3PM / Check-out: 11AM From $250 - Built in 1877 as the Sumner Hotel and the Found Hotel continues a tradition of hospitality in this building. The previous incarnation was the Milner Hotel. Amenities include: 24-hour front desk, ticket service, luggage storage, safety deposit box.

• Harborside Inn 185 State Street 42.3592716, -71.0528316 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 723-7500 From $300 - Pleasant, remodeled in the boutique style (exposed brick, modern furniture without being uncomfortable). Rooms are a nice size, comfortable bed, no desk, nice TV, wireless internet free in all rooms, clean. Very quiet - no street noise at all. Coffee available in the lobby all day for free. No restaurant or room service. Basic travelers hotel - no gym. Close to Fanueil Hall, Aquarium, some Halal restaurants within walking distance.

• Nine Zero - 90 Tremont Street 42.3573772, -71.0608377 T: Park Street ☎ +1 617 772-5800 +1 617 772-5810 From $320 - Trendy boutique hotel. For a real splurge stay in the Cloud Nine Suite with views of Boston Common.

• West Boston 100 Stuart Street 42.350902, -71.065526 T: Boylston ☎ +1 617 261-8700 From $350 - Located near Boston’s theatre neighborhood and the West Boston has 235 modern guest rooms all with the signature West bed. The hotel also features the restaurant Market, from celebrity-chef Jean-Georges and the West lounge in the lobby.

• DoubleTree by Hilton 821 Washington Street 42.34885, -71.06424 T: Tufts Medical Center ☎ +1 617 956-7900 Check-in: 3PM / Check-out: noon From $400 - Guests gain complimentary access to the adjoining YMCA fitness center (complete with indoor pool, basketball court and group classes). A full-service Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.) is also located on the lower level of the hotel.

• Hilton Boston Downtown 89 Broad Street 42.3574174, -71.0531985 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 556-0006 Check-in: 3PM / Check-out: Noon From $459 - This accessible hotel has 403 rooms and a fitness center.

Langham boston - Once a Federal reserve bank, The Langham overlooks Post Office Plaza

• InterContinental Boston 510 Atlantic Ave 42.35389, -71.05201 T: South Station ☎ +1 617 747-1000 From $520 - The InterContinental Boston Hotel, a new symbol of elegance and luxury on the Boston Waterfront. The 424 guest rooms & suites of this 5 star hotel are close to the Boston Commons, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North End, Logan Airport, Boston Convention Center and other downtown Boston attractions.

• Marriott Vacation Club Pulse - Boston Custom House | 3 McKinley Plaza 42.3591, -71.0535 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 310-6300 Check-in: 4PM / Check-out: 11AM From $530 Boston Custom House - If you're going to throw down coin, you may as well do it here. This was once the customs house for the city of Boston, where all items unloaded from the nearby docks were tracked and taxed. The building dates from the early 1800s and the tower was added about 100 years ago and the hotel remodel happened in the 1990s. It's got charm, a great location and all the modern conveniences you'd expect.

• Courtyard Boston Tremont Hotel 275 Tremont Street 42.350003, -71.065445 T: Tufts Medical Center ☎ +1 617 426-1400 +1 617 482-6730 From $600 - This 4-star hotel is across the street from the Wang Theatre.

• Omni Parker House Hotel 60 School Street 42.3578372, -71.0602361 T: Park Street ☎ +1 617 227-8600 +1 617 742-5729 From $600 Omni Parker House Omniparkerhouse 90336 - The oldest hotel in America, although the current building dates from the 1920s. Located in downtown Boston on the Freedom Trail and the venerable Omni Parker House Hotel opened its doors in 1855. If you want to surround yourself in history in the heart of Downtown Boston, thit is the place to stay. However, note that many of the hotel's rooms are small and over-crowded with furniture. Ho Chi Minh & Malcolm X are former employees. Bonus: If you eat in the dining room, ask to sit in the booth in which JFK asked Jackie O to marry him.

• New Ritz-Carlton 10 Avery Street 42.3531653, -71.0636868 T: Chinatown ☎ +1 617 574-7100 +1 617 574-7200 From $645 - Located in the Theater District directly across the common from the original Riz-Carlton. Relatively new hotel with a very modern design.

• Boston Harbor Hotel 70 Rowes Wharf 42.3566602, -71.0503163 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 439-7000 From $645 - Wake up to the sunrise over the harbor. Big swimming pool, fitness center.

• Hyatt Regency Boston 1 Ave de Lafayette 42.353519, -71.061003 T: Downtown Crossing ☎ +1 617 912-1234 From $650 - Big luxury hotel.

• Boston Marriott Longwharf 296 State Street 42.36017, -71.05091 T: Aquarium ☎ +1 617 227-0800 From $700 - It's on Boston Harbor at the historic Long Wharf in downtown Boston. This hotel features 400 hotel rooms, 11 hotel suites, a concierge lounge with harbor views and Oceana Restaurant that serves fresh seafood cuisine.

• The Langham Hotel Boston - 250 Franklin Street 42.3564, -71.0545 T: State ☎ +1 617 451-1900 From $730 Langham Hotel Boston - It was built for the Federal Reserve Bank. This AAA four-diamond Boston hotel is now a national architectural landmark. The hotel overlooks the gardens of Post Office Plaza and is steps from Boston's shops, restaurants and attractions such as Faneuil Hall, Newbury Street and the Freedom Trail and the financial neighborhood. Cafe Fleuri inside is now known as one of Boston's finest restaurants and is known for its Saturday Chocolates Cafe Buffet and Sunday Jazz brunch.

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Boston/Downtown

• You're steps away from the Boston/North_End|North End, dripping with old world Italian charm.
• Pay a visit to Boston/Charlestown|Charlestown and the USS Constitution, oldest commissioned warship still afloat.
• Investigate more historic sites in Quincy at Adams National Historical Park, one time farmstead and home to two presidents.
• Head down to the wharf and take a ferry out to the Boston Harbor Islands. It's a great way to beat the heat in summertime.
• Storied Fenway Park is just a few stops away in Boston/Fenway-Kenmore|Fenway. If the B's aren't playing today, try the Museum of Fine Arts instead.

Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd.
To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.