visit boston or nyc

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Christmas Markets
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Boston or New York City?
• Which is Cheaper, Boston or New York City? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Boston or New York City?

• When to Visit Boston or New York City?

Should you visit Boston or New York City?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boston and New York City. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

New York City

New York City is a cosmopolitan, one-of-a-kind, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Boston and New York City: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Numerous theater shows
• Active nightlife
• Popular beach
• Scenic old town
• Family-friendly
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Big city activities
• Home to the Freedom Trail
• Less active music scene
• Less popular for shopping
• Less popular with couples
• Good music scene
• Fun shopping
• Good for couples and romance
• Home to the Statue of Liberty

Is there more to do in Boston or New York City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New York City than Boston, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. New York City is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Boston is known for its beaches, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. New York City is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities.

How is Boston different from New York City?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City and Boston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or New York City?

Both Boston and New York City have terrific landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

The museums and tourist attractions in New York City are world-renowned. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is an unbeatable place for theatre. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its theatre productions.

New York City is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Is the Food Better in Boston or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through New York City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in New York City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is an unbeatable place for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

New York City is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, New York City is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

New York City is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or New York City Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, New York City does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

New York City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or New York City?

New York City is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

New York City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences.

New York City is a fantastic destination at Christmas. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

Visitors can find excellent Christmas markets in both Boston and New York City.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Many people head to New York City to see its Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Families?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

New York City is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

New York City is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Students?

Boston and New York City are both terrific destinations for students and younger travelers.

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Many students frequent New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Is Boston or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Boston and New York City offer terrific public transit options.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

New York City has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

Is Boston or New York City a more walkable city?

Boston and New York City both are terrific when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

It's very easy to get around on foot in New York City. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in New York City or Boston?

How long in boston or new york city.

Both Boston and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Boston . Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

Families should spend more time in Boston than New York City. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in New York City than Boston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in New York City that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Boston if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in New York City.

• How many days in Boston or New York City? Ideal Length of Stay Boston 3-5   New York City   3-7

One day in Boston or New York City?

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of New York City. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

New York City is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or New York City?

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or New York City?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the city of Boston. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the cosmopolitan big city of New York City. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America , The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America , and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America .

Which place is cheaper, New York City or Boston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Boston Prices USA Prices New York City Prices USA Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Boston $ 255 New York City $ 326

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $255, while the average daily cost in New York City is $326. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Boston and New York City in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Boston $ 166 New York City $ 175
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Boston $ 332 New York City $ 350

Compare Hotels in Boston and New York City

Looking for a hotel in Boston or New York City? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Boston

Hotels in New York City

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Boston $ 37 New York City $ 49

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:

• Subway Daily Pass $ 9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

• Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Downtown to Boston Airport (BOS): $69
• Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Airport (BOS) to City Downtown: $69
• Round trip transfer in private vehicle from Boston downtown-to the Airport (BOS): $138
• Round trip Airport Transfer: Logan - Boston: $300
• Private transfer: Boston to Boston Airport (BOS): $95
• Private transfer: Boston Airport (BOS) to Boston : $95
• Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Boston: $960
• Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $160
• Private Transfer from Boston to Flynn Cruiseport Boston: $115
• Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $87
• Private Transfer between Boston Logan Airport and Boston City: $150
• Private Transfer Boston Airport BOS to Boston by Business or Luxury Vehicle: $122

Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:

• Subway $ 4.50
• Taxi Ride $ 8.00
• Subway $ 2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Manhattan: Bus Transfer from/to Newark Airport: $21
• New York: 1-Way Transfer to/from JFK & Grand Central Station: $27
• Midtown/Lower Manhattan -JFK: Private Airport Departure Transfers: $29
• Newark Liberty International Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to / from NYC: $34
• Private Departure Transfers from Upper Manhattan to JFK Airport: $34
• EWR to Manhattan: One Way Shared Arrival Transfer: $34
• Manhattan to EWR: One Way Shared Departure Transfer: $34
• JFK to Manhattan: One Way Shared Arrival Transfer : $34
• Manhattan to LGA: One Way Shared Departure Transfer: $34
• Manhattan to JFK: One Way Shared Departure Transfer : $34
• LGA to Manhattan: One Way Shared Arrival Transfer: $34
• NYC: One-Way Shared Transfer to or from Newark Airport: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or New York City?

Prices for flights to both New York City and Boston change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Boston $ 49 New York City $ 50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

• Self Guided "The North End Pizza, Cannoli and Picnic" Solo Walking Tour : $5.50
• AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
• Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $49
• Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $54
• North End Pizza Tour with 3 Slices and Cannoli: $55
• North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $68
• Boston Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
• Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $77
• Ultimate Boston Food Tour: North End & Boston Public Market: $80
• Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $80
• Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $81
• Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $90

Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• Gelato $ 7.50
• Snacks for Two at Yankees Game $ 34
• Coffee $ 6.53
• Smoothie $ 6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

For New York City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• New York, Queens Culinary Stroll : Food Tour on Foot: $23
• New York City Pizza Crawl: Best of Manhattan route: $37
• Lower East Side and Essex Market Multicultural Food Tour: $39
• Half-Day Private Pizza Crawl in Manhattan: $40
• Shared Food Tour Bohemian Greenwichvillage: $45
• East Village Food Tour: $60
• NYC: Greenwich Village Guided Food Tour: $63
• Pizza Walking Tour of Downtown Brooklyn: $65
• East Village Pizza Walk: $65
• West Village Pizza Walk: $65
• Greenwich Village Pizza Walk: $65
• Downtown Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour: $65

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Boston $ 33 New York City $ 180

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:

• Two Tickets to Celtics Game $ 101
• Duck Tour $ 32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

• "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $25
• "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $25
• 1 If By Land Walking Tours: History Walking Tour of Boston: $45
• 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with Harbor Cruise Option: $46
• 1692 Salem Day Tour: $32
• 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $32
• 2 Hour North End 'Little Italy' Walking Tour : $35
• 2-Hour Beacon Hill True Crime Expert Guided Tour: $35
• 90-Minute Boston Harbor Sunset Sightseeing Cruise: $44
• A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $215
• A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $421
• Albany Tulip Day Tour from Boston: $174

Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:

• Comedy Show Tickets $ 56
• City Map $ 8.00
• Broadway Musical $ 111
• Broadway Show Program $ 10
• Magazine $ 6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• Central Park NYC: First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.20
• Marvel Universe in New York In-app Audio Tour in English: $5.00
• Central Park: Self-guided Bike Tour App - Audio + Written: $5.00
• Self Guided Central Park Bike or Walking Tour Application: $5.00
• Brooklyn Bridge Self-Guided Bike or Walking Tour Application: $5.00
• New York City's Financial District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
• Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in New York: $5.41
• Central Park Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.53
• Self Guided "Central Park Movie Tour" Solo Walking Tour in New York City: $6.75
• NYC: Central Park Exploration Game and Tour: $6.93
• Self-Guided Tour of the Museum at Eldridge Street: $7.50
• Docent-Led Tour of the Museum at Eldridge Street: $7.50

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston , Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston , The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids , The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids , Things to Do in Central Park in NYC , and The Best Museums in New York City .

• Alcohol Drinks for one day Boston $ 27 New York City $ 29

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

• Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
• Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
• Salem Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
• Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
• Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $35
• Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
• History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
• Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
• Boston Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
• Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

• NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $19
• NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $21
• New York Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
• NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl: $34
• NYC Pub Crawl and Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $35
• NYC: Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $38
• New York Rooftop Pub Crawl: $39
• NYC: Manhattan's Only Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $42
• Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
• Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
• East Village Gangster Ghost Pub Crawl: $64
• Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl: $74

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Boston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Boston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Boston and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Boston.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boston Expensive? and Is New York City Expensive? .

New York City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Boston and New York City, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Boston or New York City?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Boston or New York City in the Summer?

Both New York City and Boston during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

Boston is around the same temperature as New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

New York City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Boston usually gets less rain in July than New York City. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Boston 73°F (23°C)   New York City   77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Boston or New York City in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and New York City. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Boston is cooler than New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boston in October average around 54°F (12°C), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In October, Boston usually receives more rain than New York City. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Boston 54°F (12°C)   New York City   57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Boston or New York City in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Boston as well as New York City. Many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to New York City in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

New York City can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. In January, Boston is generally much colder than New York City. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 29°F (-2°C), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

Boston usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as New York City. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Boston 29°F (-2°C)   New York City   31°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Boston or New York City in the Spring?

Both New York City and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Boston is cooler than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In April, Boston usually receives less rain than New York City. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Boston 48°F (9°C)   New York City   52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for New York City and Boston

Related articles for boston, related articles for new york city.

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Boston Vs. New York City: Which One Is Better For A Weekend Getaway?

Both cities make an impact on new visitors but each one is suited to a certain type of person based on their vacation vibe.

The two most popular cities on the East Coast are only within five hours of one another, and they couldn't be more different. From the outside, both New York City and Boston seem as though they'd be similar, at least from a city point of view. The first major difference is in the population: New York City has slightly more than 13 times that of Boston. Therefore, everything from the feeling of walking on each city's streets to the number of lodging options visitors will have will vary greatly.

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With that being said, Boston isn't necessarily the better city just because the sidewalks aren't as crowded. Alternatively, New York City isn't necessarily better simply because its large population attributes to many of its entertainment and activity options . In order to take an in-depth dive into which city, New York or Boston, is better for a weekend getaway - or even an extended vacation - everything must be considered.

Walking The Streets

City fans can attest to the fact that one of the greatest parts of visiting any new urban destination is how the city  walk feels. The vibe that one gets from hitting the pavement and strolling down the street can vary from city to city and it does greatly from NYC to Boston. In New York City, the stride will be fast-paced and it's best for travelers to determine where they're going  before  heading out, or have their GPS up so they can track where they're headed in a manner of seconds. In the more crowded areas of Midtown, there really are no places to step off and double-check directions without being in someone's way. However, this fast-paced stride is also exciting and makes one feel as though they're truly a New Yorker.

The nice thing about Boston is that its sidewalks are not inundated with people, even around its most popular hubs. However, this doesn't mean that festivals and events won't procure a New York City-sized crowd . If a slower pace is your thing, then Boston is the better option simply for exploration purposes. However, this also means that walking the streets at night, especially those further from the city center, will be scarcely populated.

Waterfront Activities And Skyline Views

Boston has an undeniably beautiful skyline. The view over the historic seafront is truly a sight to behold, especially around Boston Harbor. Visitors can take the views in from Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park or head across Seaport Blvd. to take in the views from Fan Pier Park and Harborwalk, which are probably less crowded. This also happens to be a foodie hub for seafood among other options, as well as where the Institute of Contemporary Art is located.

New York City's skyline, though, is iconic. There are a plethora of ways to take it in from bridges to harbor cruises and even trams, and there are also multiple places  around  the city from which to view it. the city is so big and its skyscrapers so tall that even a trip to the top of the Empire State Building will result in that classic view of a lifetime. In terms of cityscapes, New York wins this one, hands-down.

Public Transportation, AKA The Subway Systems

There's plenty to be said about the NYC subway stations. More often than not, the subways will be exactly how they seem - cramped, hot, and fairly dingy. The subway is also more expensive in NYC over Boston, however, NYC is more easily walked and most things are within walking distance if travelers pick the right area for their hotel.

Boston's subways are cleaner and cheaper but it's likely that travelers will rely heavily on this, driving, or a taxi if they're planning to do multiple things around the city. In terms of overall cost, according to  Budget Your Trip , the two cities are practically identical in terms of lodging, food, and tours, except when it comes to transportation - NYC is nearly double the cost of what Boston is, so, if you're planning on avoiding walking, Boston is the way to go.

Restaurant And Street Food Options

The prices of restaurants in each are nearly the same so in terms of food costs, they're irrelevant. For legendary seafood, Boston does have the upper hand over NYC thanks to its New England location. Boston also has its own regional cuisine that echoes that of the New England region, so it really comes down to which style a traveler is looking for.

New York City is, without a doubt, a foodie's dream, though. Not only does the city offer iconic options such as NYC pizza, halal, and various street vendor foods, but it also offers some of the best steakhouses in the country and a diverse range of cuisines that can be found anywhere, including Hell's Kitchen. NYC wins the food battle.

Architecture, Nightlife, Shopping, And Entertainment

There are historic options in both cities but Boston does offer more early colonial tours and historic sites. With that being said, Boston is also somewhat of a gateway to surrounding areas such as Salem, Plymouth, Cape Cod, and the like. In terms of nightlife and entertainment, there are several major concert halls that have a constant rotation of major artists, but it's best to check schedules before heading into the city. Entertainment is not in short supply in either city, but Boston's venues are slightly smaller, with a wide array of artistic, musical, and comedic shows.

New York City's history varies based on the area of the city one finds themselves in which can make for an exciting trip. Anything from tenement tours to MoMA should be on the schedule for history buffs, along with the more unusual tours that take travelers underground (metaphorically and literally). However, in terms of  major  shows and concerts, Broadway, alone, makes NYC the ultimate winner - visitors can find practically anything they're looking for, on any given weekend, in the city, from music to comedy and anything in between. Concerts throughout the city parks in the summer also add to this upper hand.

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Boston Itinerary: How to Spend Five Days in Boston

One of the most historic cities in the United States , Boston is the city I called home for the first 25 years of my life.

More a collection of towns than a metropolis like New York , Boston is a city steeped in history (it contains a lot of historical firsts for the United States and played a pivotal role in its founding), delicious food, wide-open green spaces, first-rate museums, and warm, welcoming people.

Visiting Boston offers all the benefits of a big metropolis without the intensity and fast pace of New York.

Boston is easy to get around and compact, making it perfect for travelers. The subway will take you wherever you need to go.

So how many days do you need to visit Boston?

Most people visit for three to four days, and I think that’s a perfect amount of time. As someone who’s lived there, I can say that, since Boston is so small, you won’t waste a lot of time “in transit,” so you can pack a lot into your days. Obviously, you can spend longer here (slow travel is the best travel), but for the first-time visitor, three to four days is enough.

Here’s a suggested Boston itinerary that will allow you to see the best of Boston:

Table of Contents

Boston Itinerary: Day 1

Boston itinerary: day 2, boston itinerary: day 3, boston itinerary: day 4, boston itinerary: day 5, other things to see and do in boston.

• Boston Common
• Massachusetts State House
• Park Street Church
• Granary Burying Ground
• King’s Chapel Burying Ground
• Benjamin Franklin statue and the former site of Boston Latin School
• Old Corner Bookstore
• Old South Meeting House
• Old State House
• Site of the Boston Massacre
• Faneuil Hall
• Paul Revere House
• Old North Church
• Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
• USS Constitution
• Bunker Hill Monument

You follow a brick road through the city, and there are signs and historical markers all along the way. Given all the walking that’s involved, I would make this the main activity of the day. You’ll want to take your time and see all the sites thoroughly.

You can also take a guided tour from the visitor’s center. Tours run hourly between 11am and 1pm, with additional tours in the afternoon in the spring and summer. Tickets are $17 USD for adults, $15 USD for students and seniors, and $8 USD for children 6-12 (free for kids under 6).

4 S Market St, +1 617-523-1300, faneuilhallmarketplace.com. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday 12pm-6pm.  

Browse for Books Located a stone’s throw away from the Boston Common, Brattle Book Shop is a family-run used bookstore that dates back to 1825. It’s actually one of the oldest surviving bookstores in the country! It’s home to over 250,000 books, maps, postcards, and other odds and ends. In addition to used books, the store is also home to an impressive collection of first editions and antique books.

9 West Street, +1 617-542-0210, brattlebookshop.com. Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5:30pm.

Walk Around the Back Bay This area used to be an actual bay. Before the Europeans arrived, the indigenous population used the tidal bay to catch fish, as the bay drained completely during low tide. When the land was colonized, a dam was built and the tidal bay was eventually filled in, creating the Back Bay area.

The end of the Public Gardens meets Boston’s Back Bay, our version of New York’s SoHo and West Village. This is where Boston’s elite and wealthy live, and nearby Newbury Street is our Madison Avenue, with lots of expensive shopping and high-end eateries. It’s a beautiful space to stroll around, with pretty brownstones and tree-lined streets. You can still see plenty of old Victorian homes in this neighborhood that date back to the 19th century. ( Here’s a list of other neighborhoods worth checking out as well!

You’ll also find the Boston Public Library here. Opened in 1852, it’s one of the largest municipal libraries in the country, home to over 23 million items, with almost 4 million visitors each year.

206 Clarendon St, +1 617-536-0944, trinitychurchboston.org. The church is open for prayer and tours Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm and Sundays 12:15pm-4:30pm. Tours are $10 USD for adults, though it is free to enter for worship.

Head up to the Prudential Tower Head back toward Copley to see the Prudential Tower, colloquially known as “The Pru.” You can actually go up to the top and get a bird’s-eye view of Boston. There are 52 floors in the building, which was built in the 1960s. These days, it’s the second tallest building in the city (the John Hancock Tower is first).

800 Boylston St, +1 617-859-0648, prudentialcenter.com. Open daily from 10am-8pm (10pm in the summer). Admission is $34.99 USD for adults, with discount available for students, seniors, and children.

47 David G. Mugar Way, +1 617-626-1250, hatchshell.com. See the website for an up-to-date list of events.

1 Science Park, +1 617-723-2500, mos.org. Open Saturday-Thursday 9am-5pm and Fridays 9am-9pm. Admission is $29 USD for adults, with discounts available for seniors and children.  

1 Central Wharf, +1 617-973-5200, neaq.org. Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, weekends 9am-6pm. Admission is $34 USD for adults, with discounts available for kids and seniors.

See the Skinny House When you’re in the North End, visit 44 Hull Street. Known as “the Skinny House” (or the Spite House), this incredibly narrow house has a rather interesting history. Built after the Civil War, it was a passion project of Joseph Euestus, who came home from the war to find that his brother had taken over more than half of the inherited land they were meant to share. Joseph decided to build on the remaining land — which his brother thought was too small to build anything on. Joseph went ahead and built a narrow four-story home on the small slice of land to block his brother’s view.

Visit an Art Gallery or Museum Boston has a lot of great galleries and museums, so depending on your interest, you’ll want to check out some (or all) of the galleries and museums below. It will take more than an afternoon to see them all but you can always spread these visits out over a few days!

• Institute of Contemporary Art : If contemporary art is your cup of tea, this is for you. While it’s not my favorite style of art, I have to admit this place does put on some insightful exhibits. 25 Harbor Shore Drive, +1 617-478-3100, icaboston.org.
• Commonwealth Museum : This museum explores the history of Massachusetts. It’s actually really interesting and entirely underrated (especially if you’re a history nerd like me). 220 Morrissey Blvd, +1 617-727-2816, sec.state.ma.us/arc.
• Harvard Museum of Natural History : This natural history museum has exhibitions showcasing dinosaurs, animals, and minerals (including meteorites). It’s a great choice if you’re traveling with kids, though there is plenty of informative content for adults too! 26 Oxford St +1 617-495-3045, hmnh.harvard.edu.
• Harvard University Art Museums : Harvard actually has three art museums – the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum. They are home to both modern and historical art exhibitions. See what exhibitions are running by checking their website. harvardartmuseums.org
• Museum of Fine Arts : This museum has an impressive collection of over 450,000 pieces of fine art. It also runs all sorts of art classes throughout the year, both multi-week classes as well as single-day workshops. If you’re looking to learn something new or improve your skills, check out the website for more details. 465 Huntington Avenue, +1 617-267-9300, mfa.org.
• Warren Anatomical Museum : Founded in 1847, this macabre museum is filled with Civil War–era medical tools as well as some unique (and perhaps unsettling) medical mysteries. It’s super weird but super neat. A definite must if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path museum! 10 Shattuck St, +1 617-432-6196, countway.harvard.edu/center-history-medicine/warren-anatomical-museum.
• Boston Tea Party and Ships Museum : This interactive museum is home to some historic ships that have been authentically restored to show you what life was like at sea during the Boston Tea Party. It also has a really informative documentary about the events that led up to the Tea Party and the American Revolution. Best of all, you can actually throw fake crates of tea into the river yourself to see what it was like! 306 Congress St, +1 617-338-1773, bostonteapartyship.com.
• Paul Revere House : Built in 1680, this is actually the oldest building in the entire city (it’s been renovated but it’s still the original building). The museum is filled with the family’s furniture and artifacts, giving you a sense of what life was like in Boston before the Revolution. 19 N Square, +1 617-523-2338, paulreverehouse.org.
• Museum of Bad Art : The name says it all! This is a museum filled with terrible art. The MOBA has rotating exhibits throughout the year, so there is always something new and terrible to behold. If you feel like a laugh, definitely check out this quirky gallery! 55 Davis Square, +1 781-444-6757, museumofbadart.org.
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum This museum is home to an amazing art collection of over 20,000 items, including European, Asian, and American art. Opened in 1903, the museum is made up of a wide-ranging collection of paintings, tapestries, decorative arts, and sculptures. It’s one of the best museums in Boston. Don’t miss it. 25 Evans Way, +1 617-566-1401, gardnermuseum.org.

Harvard University, +1 617-495-1000, harvard.edu/on-campus/visit-harvard/tours.

125 Arborway, +1 617-524-1718, arboretum.harvard.edu. Open daily 7am-7pm. Admission is free.

Take the Sam Adams Brewery Tour After four days of sightseeing, you deserve a beer or five. Luckily, this brewery is located near the Arboretum so it’s easy to visit and a great way to end your day. Sam Adams is a major brewer in Boston, and locals drink it widely and frequently. The brewery offers free tours, starting in mid-afternoon and departing every 45 minutes. You get a few free samples along the way. If you’re under 21, don’t worry. You can still go — you just can’t drink.

30 Germania St, +1 617-368-5080, samueladams.com. Tours are available Monday-Thursday and Saturdays 10am-3pm. On Friday, tours are available between 10am and 5:30pm. Their Sam Signature Experience is 45 min long and costs $10 USD.

4 Yawkey Way, +1 877-733-7699, mlb.com/redsox/ballpark. See the website for an up-to-date schedule.

(The Sox not in season? No worries. We have the Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots. No matter the time of year, you’ll be able to find a game to see!)  

Visit the Children’s Museum If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to spend part of your visit. It’s the second oldest children’s museum in the US and has permanent exhibits on health and exercise, construction, space, art, and diversity. It also has a real two-story house from Kyoto, Japan, that teaches kids about life there (it’s actually pretty cool!).

308 Congress Street, +1 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Open Wednesday-Sunday 9am-12pm and 1:30pm-4:30pm. On the first Saturday of the month, the museum opens at 10am. Admission is $20 USD for both adults and kids (free for infants under 12 months).

Charlestown Navy Yard, +1 617-426-1812, ussconstitutionmuseum.org. The ship is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm (with extended hours in the summer); the museum is open 10am-6pm (with extended hours in the summer as well). Admission is free, though the museum has a suggested donation of $10-15 USD.

Visit More Museums – With any extra time, visit more museums! There’s plenty of them to see! Try not to skip the big ones!

725 Commonwealth Avenue, +1 617-353-2630, bu.edu/astronomy/community/open-night-observatory/. Viewings are Wednesday evenings at 7:30pm in the autumn and winter and 8:30pm in the spring and summer. Make sure to get there 10 minutes early as they don’t permit entry once it starts.

See the Mapparium – Located in the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story inverted globe serves as a giant map of the world that you can walk into via a glass bridge. It is constructed of over 600 stained-glass panels and shows the world as it looked in 1935.

200 Massachusetts Avenue, +1 617-450-7000, marybakereddylibrary.org. Open daily 10am-5pm. Admission to the Mapparium is $6 USD for adults, with discounts available for students, children, and seniors.

Head to Castle Island – Castle Island is located in South Boston and is famous for Fort Independence. When the fort was no longer needed for defense, it was actually used as the first state prison. The island covers 22 acres and has excellent beaches, as well as some running trails that are popular with the locals. There’s also an area for picnics and you can visit the old fort for free. The place gets pretty busy on the weekends during the summer, and you can often see school groups exploring the fort during the spring.

Relax at the Lawn on D – This massive green space is new to the city (when I was growing up, there was nothing in this area so you would never go there). There are all sorts of free activities happening year-round, from concerts to festivities and everything in between! There’s public seating, free Wi-Fi, art exhibitions, and a few games, like table tennis and bocce. To see what events are happening during your visit, check the website for details.

420 D St, +1 877-393-3393, signatureboston.com/lawn-on-d. Open Monday-Wednesday & Friday-Saturday from 7am-11pm and Thursday & Sunday from 7am-10:30pm (hours may vary for events). Admission is free.

Hike the Blue Hills – This park is a bit out of the way, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you want to get out and stretch your legs. The 7,000-acre park is home to over 100 miles of trails and offers some picturesque viewpoints. There are also plenty of activities to keep you entertained, such as boating, fishing, skiing, and rock climbing (depending on the season). It can get busy in the summer on the weekends, so just be sure to arrive early.

Tour the Custom House – Built in the 17th century, the Custom House is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. In 1915, a tower was added to the building, making it the tallest building in the city at the time. The building is owned by Marriott Hotels now, though you can still take a free tour (by appointment) to go up to the observation deck on the 26th floor.

3 McKinley Square, +1 617-310-6300, marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosch-marriott-vacation-club-pulse-at-custom-house-boston. Tours are free though they are by appointment only.

Boston is a great city (and I’m not just saying that because I grew up there). I’ve never encountered a person who hasn’t liked it. This Boston itinerary will give you a good overview of the city at a relaxing pace. You’ll be moving around a lot, though, so make sure you get an unlimited “T” pass (subway/train pass). If you have more time, you can squeeze in some other activities .

But why rush such a beautiful place?

Take it slow. Mix and match the itinerary to suit your needs but this is how I’d structure my days if I was visiting Boston!

Book Your Trip to Boston: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For the best hostels, check out this post on the best hostels in the city.

If you want to know the best neighborhoods, here’s my guide to all the best areas in town !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Boston? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Boston for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Boston Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

As one of the oldest cities in the country, Boston is filled with history. It’s a mash-up of cobblestoned streets and historic buildings with modern skyscrapers. There are a few places you cannot miss during a 2, 3, or 4 days in Boston itinerary, as well as some lesser-known parts of the city we’ll cover here.

As one of the most dynamic and historic cities in the country, there is a lot to do in Boston and so much that you can’t miss. From American history to esteemed universities to excellent museums and fantastic food (there’s more than clam chowder!), Boston has something to offer everyone.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Boston?

When in the initial stages of planning a trip, many do wonder how many days to spend in Boston in order to do this New England city justice.

With 2 days in Boston, you’re just scratching the surface. Most of the city’s main attractions are clustered together, so you could see a lot in 2 days, but you’re also missing out on some cool parts that make the city unique.

If you have 3 days in Boston, you’re in good shape to see all the highlights as well as some lesser-known sites. You’ll be able to strike a balance between visiting historic landmarks and more trendy neighborhoods.

If you’re lucky enough to have 4 days, you can see more of the city at your leisure or use the fourth day to take a day trip to somewhere nearby. There is no shortage of historic sites and beautiful nature just outside Boston. 

Getting To & Around Boston 

You’re most likely arriving in Boston through the Logan International Airport. You can easily hail a cab, take the GO Boston Shuttle, pre-book a transfer or use public transportation to reach downtown.

If you’re visiting from another city or town in New England or even some city further south such as Washington DC or New York , you might arrive on a train or bus. Make sure to find out which train or bus transfers you need to make depending on where you’re coming from. You can view schedules here.

The Massachusetts capital is a very walkable city and it’s not actually that big. In fact, one of the best things to do in Boston is walk the Freedom Trail. Many of the most historic landmarks are located near each other.

Boston is also well-connected via a subway system, known locally as the T. You can easily get around the city using this if you want to reach somewhere a bit further afield.

Alternatively, there is the Hop On/Hop Off Trolley Tour that provides a convenient way to see the city. Taxis and rideshare are both readily available as well. It is also included in the Boston Go City Pass , which will also save you on entrance fees to many of the paid attractions listed here.

2, 3 or 4-Day Boston Itinerary

If you’re spending a few days in the Massachusetts capital, then there are a number of guided tours that you can take to get an overview of the city such as this historical walking tour , this bike tour or this food tour.

Day 1 – Freedom Trail, Museums, Quincy Market & More

Walk the freedom trail.

This 2.5-mile trail covers many of the historical highlights in Boston. You’ll want to dedicate a few solid hours to walking the trail. You can opt to walk the entire thing or a portion of it.

There are also guided tours available such as this 2-hour walking tour , which could be helpful for providing context to the landmarks as you pass them. Here are the landmarks you can expect to see:

• Boston Common & Boston Public Garden
• Massachusetts State House
• Park Street Church
• Granary Burying Grounds
• Boston Latin School/Benjamin Franklin Statue
• Old South Meeting House
• Old State House
• Faneuil Hall
• Site of the Boston Massacre

Paul Revere House

• Old North Church
• USS Constitution
• Bunker Hill Monument

You could spend however long you’d like walking the Freedom Trail and note that it doesn’t cost anything to walk the trail, but there are generally entrance fees for the various sites.

Depending on how long you want to spend, take the time to walk by these places and pick one or two that interest you to plan to visit those places. With that in mind, plan to spend 2-3 hours on the Freedom Trail.

Boston Tea Party & Ships Museum

Veer off Freedom Trail just slightly to pay a visit to the Boston Tea Party and Ships Museum.

The museum is chock-full with historical experts, interactive exhibits, full-scale replica sailing vessels, and historic artefacts to make this monumental event in America’s history come to life. You can pre-book tickets here.

If you have some time to spare, you can watch an award-winning documentary in Minutemen Theatre that depicts the events that led up to the American Revolution. 

Next to the museum, don’t miss the Observation Deck at Independence Wharf, either, where you can get excellent views of the harbor.

Quincy Market

Quincy Market is where old and new seamlessly merge. Here you can find hundreds of shops, both inside and outside the building. The market was established in 1825 and spans three buildings: Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market.

It’s another great place to stop as you’re walking the Freedom Trail to grab a bite to eat or do some souvenir shopping. The market is especially charming during the winter months when it’s decorated for the holidays. Quincy Market was named a National Historic Landmark in 1966. 

Go to a Red Sox game

Go see the “Green Monster” for yourself during your visit to Boston. Even those who wouldn’t consider themselves baseball fans will enjoy seeing a game at Fenway Park.

It’s been the home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912, making it the oldest stadium in Major League Baseball. If you don’t have time to see a game, you can still take a guided tour of Fenway. It’s a great way to wrap up your first day of sightseeing in Boston. 

If it’s not the season for baseball or you don’t care to go to a game, then use this time to stroll along the Charles River Esplanade or, perhaps, visit the nearby Boston Museum of Fine Arts. You could also simply relax in the tranquil surroundings of Back Bay Fens Park.

Day 2 – Boston’s Museums

John f. kennedy presidential museum & library .

This exceptional museum is dedicated to the life and accomplishments of U.S. President John F. Kennedy.

Here, you’ll wander the permanent exhibit that uses large-screen projections, interactive displays, original artefacts, and re-mastered films to learn more about the former president’s life. Consider reserving tickets online in advance to save you time at the door. You can also opt for a guided tour.

A visit to the JFK Presidential Museum & Library is a great way to kick off your second day. 

Institute of Contemporary Art

If you have 2 days, you should consider visiting one of the many local museums. A city that’s so full of history has some great historical museums, but it also has notable art museums like the Institute of Contemporary Art.

Here you’ll find both permanent and rotating exhibits featuring contemporary artists and their work. The museum is located in a beautiful building on the waterfront overlooking Boston Harbor, so you can also take in the view. It’s recommended that you book tickets in advance. 

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

This museum is known for its beautiful architecture and courtyard garden. It’s a great museum to visit if you want one that is a little less crowded than other larger museums in the city. Beginning in the late 1800s, Isabella started collecting rare books, manuscripts, and pieces of art to fill her home.

Over the course of her worldwide travels, she acquired art like Rembrandt’s Self Portrait and Titian’s Europa. The museum as it stands today was built in 1901. She lived on the fourth floor and spent the remainder of her life arranging the art throughout its halls.

It’s a unique museum that’s a quiet way to spend the afternoon. If this or any of the other museums don’t interest you, there are plenty of other museums in Boston to take in. For instance, the Museum of Science – located in a building overlooking the Charles River, is an excellent place to visit if you happen to be traveling with children.

Day 3 – Boston Common, Trinity Church, Paul Revere House & More

Boston common.

You might’ve already passed through Boston Common if you walked the entirety of the Freedom Trail. If you didn’t stop for long then, it’s worth your time to dedicate a couple hours to really enjoying the park. Boston Common is America’s oldest public park having been established in 1634 and is located in the Beacon Hill neighbourhood of Boston.

Today, the park is filled with fountains, picnic tables, and green spaces for visitors to lounge and enjoy the day. Make sure to stroll through the adjacent Public Garden, as well, to truly enjoy this urban green space. If you’re seeing Boston in 3 days, then a visit to Boston Common is a great idea.

Trinity Church

When you start exploring Boston, you’ll immediately notice Trinity Church in Copley Square. This historic stone church sits squarely in the middle of downtown’s towering skyscrapers. It’s considered by the American Association of Architects as one of the top 10 buildings in the country.

The parish located there today was founded in 1733, which is more than 150 years before the church was built in 1877. You can enter Trinity Church on your own or schedule a tour with a knowledgeable tour guide to learn more about the church’s history. 

It looks striking as it’s sandwiched between modern skyscrapers like the John Hancock Tower and the Prudential Tower and really symbolises Boston’s mingling of old and new.

Located in the North End neighborhood, the Paul Revere House was the former home of the famous Founding Father Paul Revere. He played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, noted in history books for his famous “midnight ride” to warn colonists that the British were approaching Boston.

The home was built in 1680 and is downtown Boston’s oldest building. Inside, the home is set up to mimic what it would have looked like while Revere lived there. In fact, 90% of the structure today is original material, including doors, windows, flooring, and internal wall material.

You can pop into this Boston museum for a self-guided tour or try to time your visit to see colonial reenactors demonstrate key moments of America’s history. 

If this doesn’t interest you as much or if you’re traveling with children, consider, as well, heading to the nearby New England Aquarium where you can learn all about local marine life or you can take a food tour of North End.

The Museum of Bad Art

You’ve probably never been to a museum that focuses on bad art. The Museum of Bad Art houses “art too bad to be ignored” and is a highlight worth adding to your time in Boston. It’s the world’s only museum dedicated to bad art that began in the basement of a private home.

The museum has since grown into a local favorite that shines the spotlight on quality bad art. It’s a quirky and fun addition to your Boston trip, especially if you happen to be planning a 3-day itinerary. 

Day 4 – Lexington & Concord, Salem or Cape Cod Day Trip

Lexington and concord.

Lexington and Concord is arguably the most famous site of the Revolutionary War. For history buffs, this is a great way to round out your 4 days in Boston. It’s where the first shots of the war were fired.

To reach Lexington, you’ll take the subway and bus for a total travel time of about 45 minutes before getting off at Lexington Battle Green. You can reach Concord by taking the MBTA directly from Boston.

Lexington Green is a good starting point for your visit. This small town is home to the Belfry that sounded the alarm in 1775 to call the militia to fight. Here, you’ll also find John Hancock’s childhood home or Buckman’s Tavern. In Concord, make sure you visit the Old North Bridge.

You can also find Walden Pond, made famous by writer Henry Thoreau, and Louisa May Alcott’s “Orchard House”. There’s a lot to see during a day trip to Lexington and Concord, so make sure you leave early in the day to give yourself ample time. 

You’ve most likely heard of Salem, Massachusetts due to its famous 1692 witch trials. Salem is only about 30 minutes from Boston, so it’s an easy day trip. You can easily reach it by taking the commuter train that connects the cities, a high-speed ferry or an organised day tour.

During your day in Salem, make sure to visit the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Peabody Essex Museum, the Old Town Hall, and the Witch House. You can end your day with a visit to Winter Island Park and Lighthouse.

As you might’ve guessed, one of the best times of year to visit Salem is Halloween. The little town comes to life with spooky decorations.

Without a doubt, Cape Cod is beautiful, especially in summer. This stretch of coastline is full of charming towns, great seafood, and relaxing beaches.

Cape Cod is about 3 hours from Boston by car, which tends to be a little long for a day trip. Instead, you can take the Cape Cod Fast Ferry from Boston to Provincetown, which is the largest town on the Cape.

In Provincetown, you can enjoy the local art galleries, lounge on the beach, and walk around and enjoy the quaint homes and shops.

If you have more than 4 days in your Boston itinerary, spending more than one day on the Cape is a relaxing way to bring your time in the area to a close.

Where to Stay in Boston

Harborside Inn – This 3-star hotel in downtown Boston is a great choice for mid-range travelers to the Massachusetts capital. There are a number of great rooms to choose from, a wonderful location for exploring the city and plenty of other amenities to enjoy.

Omni Boston Hotel – If you’re looking for luxury while in Boston, then this sophisticated hotel is a great option. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer and an unbeatable location for exploring all this historic city has to offer.

HI Boston – Those visiting Boston on a budget will love this backpacker’s hostel in the center of the city. They have a range of both dorms and private rooms on offer along with other perks and great common areas for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Boston hotels!

The perfect itinerary for Boston is the one that’s packed with what excites you most. If you’re a history buff, you’re going to love it here. Foodies, explorers, and everyone in between will find something to love in Boston.

Are you planning a trip to Boston? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Cape Cod Itinerary

Martha’s Vineyard vs Nantucket: Which Island to Visit?

17 Best Stops on a Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip

About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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Boston vs. New York

Table of Contents

Boston is known as the Cradle of Liberty, with many historical sites you can walk to any time of the day. In this city, you have infinite mouthwatering dishes to try, particularly the seafood variety. Plus, don’t forget that Beantown is home to many beautiful beaches, meaning you can have endless fun in the sun!

Meanwhile, New York is an eclectic mix of tradition and modern energy that few cities can top. Here, you’re free to make lasting memories with objects of the past and marvel at the many stunning works of art. You can also enjoy its iconic skyline that is as bright as the stars and maybe even have an out-of-this-world nightlife encounter!

At the end of the day, Boston and New York deserve to be your next ultimate getaway destination. They each have unique cultures and characters, which you’ll learn about below.

One thing you should know about Boston is that it promises fantastic experiences for humans of every kind. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling to expand your horizons or simply in it for leisure; this bustling metropolis won’t let you down! It’s a city equipped with everything, from landmarks you’ll remember for the rest of your life to spots that tell stories as old as time.

Not only that, but Beantown is well-endowed with beaches known for their sparkling crystal-clear waters. Here, you’re free to lounge in the sand and feel the sun’s warmth for hours on end. If you’re yearning for more, go on a city stroll and witness the many sights that add to the city’s unique character. And once you get hungry, partake in the edible riches of the sea that this place is so proud of!

In this American spot, there’s truly no time to get bored. There’s always something to uncover, so come and experience the spirit of Beantown!

What Makes Boston Unique?

The place to dine like a king.

If you’re on a journey to find the tastiest dishes around, you’ll find your match in Boston. It’s home to some of the most delicious foods you’ll ever set your mouth on, and no doubt you’ve sampled many! This gem is oozing with excellent culinary offerings, from classic ones to something more adventurous.

Curious about Beantown’s gastronomy making waves all over the planet? Well, for starters, the city is known for having some of the freshest seafood around! It’s the place to be for those who adore partaking in the fruits of the ocean or for people dying to try something new. Since this American destination sits next to the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find plenty of options to satiate your appetite.

There’s the classic clam chowder, a staple in Boston made mainly of milk or heavy cream. It’s a soup filled with clams and potatoes, perfect on days you crave something warm and filling. Don’t rule out the city’s lobster rolls, too, served hot and dripping with mouthwatering butter and mayo. Some restaurants offer a more unique version, like frying these lobsters for extra crunch.

If you’re not a fan of seafood, your tastebuds would still celebrate Boston’s food scene. Get a hold of its signature baked beans, a dish that inspired this city’s famed nickname – Beantown. This plate isn’t baked but rather stewed or sweetened with syrup and molasses. It’s perfect on its own, but wait until you pair it with yet another city masterpiece: Yankee pot roast!

And if you’re seeking to satisfy your sweet tooth, expect Beantown to deliver. It has some of the most delicious donuts ever, coming in both traditional and creative flavors. Look forward to the Glazed and Brown Butter Hazelnut Crunch, they’re both to die for! Looking for a foreign dessert? Don’t forget Boston’s Italian cannoli, pastry tubes filled with cheese and topped with nuts, chocolates, or fruits.

There’s plenty more where these food wonders came from, making Beantown the ideal place to dine like a king. From traditional dishes to innovative creations, the city’s cuisine will satisfy your every whim!

Endless Fun in the Sea and Sun

Have you ever wanted to go somewhere that has the perfect mix of sand, sun, and sea? Well, there’s a spot made just for you: Boston! It’s mainly known as the birthplace of the American Revolution, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches ever!

In this city, you can take in the scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bask in the warm light of the sun, and feel the sand between your toes. It’s the ideal formula for every dream vacation, whether you’re out with friends or want some quality time for yourself.

The cherry on top? No matter where you go in Beantown, there’s sure to be a beach nearby to start or end your day with a bang! One moment you’re on a fascinating trip down Boston’s historical sites, and the next, you’re heading to the seaside for a romantic sunset stroll.

For starters, you can explore the turquoise waters of Revere Beach, the oldest public beach in the USA. Wander along the boardwalk, pick up some shells, and admire the gentle waves hitting the shore.

Or why not make your way to Nantasket Beach? It’s the perfect spot for beach lovers who want to get away from the hubbub of city life, complete with light-gray sand! There are also Revere Beach, Carson Beach, Plum Island, and many more sites to explore.

And if you get tired of taking it easy on one of Beantown’s phenomenal beaches, there are plenty of activities for you to do. For instance, you can book the many whale-watching tours the city offers. It’s a must-do activity for any animal lover, especially if you’re keen on witnessing many types of cetaceans. Make sure your camera is ready to capture humpbacks, finbacks, minke whales, and dolphins!

If you have more time on your hands, you’d have the time of your life hopping across the 34 islands lying off Boston’s coast. You’d enjoy the island of Hilly Spectacle, particularly their fun ways of holding yoga, clambakes, and jazz performances. There’s also the beautiful Grape Island, an ideal spot for hikers and nature lovers. You can explore countless woodsy trails here, plus thriving wildlife that can accompany you on your hike.

Places You’ll Carry Wherever You Go

There’s no denying Boston is one of America’s loveliest destinations, filled with attractive scenes you won’t get enough of. And you’ve heard what they say about beautiful places… you carry them wherever you go. This means that once you step foot in Beantown, the city will always be ingrained in you!

The memories you make in this metropolis will stay with you forever, including all the landmarks you gazed upon. This is definitely not a losing situation, and who knows, it may even prompt you to return to Boston again and again! The city is a paradise full of eye candy, so exploring it down to the tiniest avenue is definitely worth it.

Why not start on the country’s prettiest street to give you a clue about Beantown’s many jaw-dropping treasures? It’s Acorn Street, known for being the subject of many photographers all over the globe. Here, you can channel your inner romantic and live the life of an 18th-century novel protagonist. You can even dress the part for a more immersive experience, plus it would look very cool in pictures!

There’s the Boston Opera House, a structure you may find more touching than the performances themselves. It’s a masterpiece so unique that it can transport you into a universe of beauty and sophistication with just one glance. From the chandeliers that adorn the ceiling to the intricate details on the carpets and drapes, this place will take your breath away.

And if you truly want something unforgettable, you can visit Beantown’s Church of the Covenant. It’s a striking gothic structure dating from the 1860s, made with traces of the Romanesque Revival style. The church’s interior is a work of art, painted in vibrant shades of purple and blue. It also has stained glass windows depicting various Christian scenes. These delicate pieces, when illuminated by sunlight, give an ethereal atmosphere!

Looking for more of Boston’s many wondrous sites to behold? Check out some of the most breathtaking places you’ll find in the city below:

• Prudential Observatory
• Boston Public Garden
• Zakim Bridge
• Massachusetts State House
• Belle Isle Marsh Reservation

Nothing Better Than a Stroll in the City

Most people walk to clear their heads and organize their thoughts. It’s a foolproof activity that can ground you, allowing you to see into the life of things. However, in Boston, it’s also something you can do for an entirely different reason – to better appreciate the city’s sceneries!

Every corner you turn here presents a new opportunity to explore and get lost in the beauty of the outdoors. It’s why this American destination has yet another sobriquet it answers to: The Walking City. It’s a fitting nickname for this walker’s paradise, capable of giving you an easy stroll or something challenging to test your skills.

Eager to know about the many walkable paths in Boston that can literally make your jaw drop?

Well, first and foremost, there’s the Freedom Trail. It’s one of the city’s most famous urban walking trails and the most historical one to boot! This 4 km (2.5 mi) path allows you to trace the exact footsteps of revolutionary heroes, literally a trip back in time. It leads you down through 16 historically significant sites in Boston, including the famous Bunker Hill.

If you prefer a lighter stroll, there’s the Charles River Esplanade. It’s a picturesque path that takes you on a walk along the river, giving you an amazing scene of sailboats on the water. Not only does it offer you a view of the city skyline, but you could also drop by relevant spots, like Beantown’s Museum of Science.

Craving for a path that can provide you with serenity? Check out The Emerald Necklace, a loop trail of beautiful parks and waterways. You can pass through some of Boston’s most eye-catching green spaces, like the Arnold Arboretum and the Back Bay Fens. Witness the many majestic wildlife, from birds to butterflies, as you meander through the path.

Ultimately, Boston has everything a walking enthusiast is looking for. And if you’re not yet one, it’s a great city to start another wonderful exploration!

New York is a thriving city famed across the globe for its picturesque skyscrapers and busy streets. However, there’s more to this American destination than the hustle and bustle of a regular metropolis. It’s the ultimate destination for tourists, a wonderland that will take you on an adventure of discovery!

The Big Apple is bursting at the seams with museums and wonderful places of memory that can take you back in time. Here, you can marvel at antiques and works of art that will literally make your jaw drop. It’s also known for being a shopaholic’s heaven, with iconic stores you can explore left and right. Don’t forget its amazing nightlife, complete with delicious alcohol and music so lovely and diverse.

This American gem is a paradise of fascinating sights and sounds you must experience! So if you’re looking for a place to make lasting memories, there’s no better place than New York.

What Makes New York Unique?

Make memories in places of memory.

Yes, New York may be famed as a bustling metropolis with a lot of modern going on. It has one of the prettiest skylines, filled with music and partying all night long. However, do you know it’s also the ideal city to make memories, particularly because it has abundant places of memory? It’s literally an American destination that can take you to the yellow brick road of times long gone!

That’s right, scattered throughout the Big Apple are museums that are real blasts from the past. They’re a real treat not only for history buffs but also for people interested in antiques and phenomenal works of art. From world-renowned galleries to interactive science museums, this city has it all!

There’s the Metropolitan Museum of Art, filled with many exhibits and collections that will charm anyone. Here, you get a chance to appreciate 2 million works of art, some of them over five thousand years old! You can also visit the American Museum of Natural History and see taxidermy mammals and relics from Native American cultures. You can also find Egyptian mummies inside, so you may want to brush up on your Egyptian knowledge!

And if you’re into aviation, you’d enjoy dropping by the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. In this place, you can see real-life WWII fighter planes, supersonic jets, and aircraft carriers! Are antiquities more of your thing? The Cloisters Museum and Garden is going to be your paradise. It’s dedicated to housing artifacts and artwork from Europe’s medieval past and has a recreated garden showcased.

This is New York, the city where each museum offers something unique. Whether you want classical masterpieces or modern art, you’ll find something that calls out to you in this cultural paradise!

Come See the Lights

Do you dream of going outside the planet one day to get a clearer look at celestial bodies? Maybe you’re fond of looking at the bright specks of light you see every night, wondering if there will come a time you can touch them. Well, if you can’t wait any further, the best thing to do may be to visit New York.

It’s a city so shiny and stunning, very much like a river of stars! Visiting this American destination takes you closer to your desire to reach outer space. The scene is simply so illuminating, enough to compare to the brightest views in the night sky. It’s why many people from all over have the Big Apple on their bucket lists. After all, who can ever resist the grandeur of one of the best skylines on the planet?

If you ever find yourself gravitating toward this otherworldly beauty, here are some spots you can get for the best skyline views:

• Empire State Building. This structure has its 86th floor designated as an open-air observatory, giving one majestic skyline view of New York. From here, you can marvel at the beauty of Central Park, Time Square, and even the iconic Statue of Liberty. The 102nd floor is also open for your enjoyment, perfect for a more panoramic view of the city at night!
• Summit One Vanderbilt. Looking for some thrill while admiring the many beautiful places in the Big City? Well, this sky-high observation deck offers an immersive experience, not for the faint-hearted! With its glass ledges and glass-enclosed elevators, you’ll get a clear view of the skyline, whatever part of the building you are in.
• Rockefeller Center. If you’re in for a more romantic view of New York, this place is made for you. It has the Rainbow Room, complete with an outdoor terrace that provides a breathtaking scene of the city as the sun sets. You’d especially enjoy marveling at the sky as it turns pink and, later on, as the city lights turn on simultaneously.

Plenty more vantage spots are waiting for you in New York; you only have to look for them. The most important thing is to get your camera ready and brace your heart for the incoming wonderful skyline views!

The Best Nights Last Forever

Countless places are vying for the title” The City That Never Sleeps’, but guess which spot succeeded in officially getting it? It’s New York, no surprise there! It’s the only city formally recognized by this title, not only because the nights here are as bright as day.

The Big Apple is also dubbed as such because the best happenings here only occur after the sun sets on its iconic skyline. In fact, you could even say the day is only starting once dusk falls in this thriving metropolis. Whether it’s a round of drinks at 4 AM or late-night shows that go until sunrise – New York is truly The City That Never Sleeps!

It doesn’t matter what your nightlife preferences are; the Big Apple’s got your back. Are you in the city to show them what you’re made of on the dancefloor? Then you better go to Avant Gardner, the heart of New York’s electronic music scene. Here, you can dance until you drop, maybe even have showdowns with people of the same taste.

Nebula may also be your cup of tea, a funky nightclub that blasts different music varieties. Party to your heart’s content and find your groove in disco, funk, soul, and house genres.

If you’re keen on dancing and popping bottles of alcohol one after the other, the Big Apple has plenty of hotspots for you. Head to Fleur Room, a club lounge centered around the botanical motif. You’d be sipping on several cocktails and mingling under a massive disco ball, all while surrounded by the loveliest flowers!

And if dancing or alcohol is not your cup of tea, New York has plenty of theater plays you can spend your time in. Book a ticket for the Lyric Theater, known for hosting some of history’s most popular Broadway pieces. It’s known for having top-notch visual effects, so best believe watching a show here is like being inside the scene yourself. There’s also the Winter Garden Theater; it has a one-of-a-kind hydraulic stage no other theater can brag about!

All in all, expect New York to cater to your tastes no matter what kind of experience you’re looking for. With its vast array of options and never-ending energy, there’s no shortage of fun activities to indulge in when the sun goes down. Prepare for a wild ride – it’s time to party the night away!

Happiness Is in Shopping

If you’re a huge fan of Carrie Bradshaw in the movie ‘Sex and the City’, you came to New York for two reasons: labels and love. And no doubt you’d fall in love with this beautiful metropolis, especially once you witness the shopping scene in all its glory. The Big Apple topped the list of CNN’s best shopping cities on the planet, which means it’s a shame not to hit the stores when you’re in the area!

And, of course, no doubt you can’t resist shopping until you drop in New York. It’s a big wig in the world of fashion, specifically known as one of the four mighty pillars of the fashion industry. Whether you want to splurge on designer clothes or check out the hottest trends, the city is absolutely the place you go to!

Want to find the ideal spots in the Big Apple to splurge on? Well, there are plenty of high-end stores throughout the area, but nothing beats the glamor of Fifth Avenue. It’s considered the most expensive shopping street in the world, filled with luxury brands from left to right. Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Armani – you name it, and this shopper paradise has it!

Not interested in these luxury items and more of a bargain shopper? Fret not, because New York also has some gems for you. Discount stores and outlet malls are scattered everywhere, making buying a souvenir for loved ones at home easy. You can go to The Woodbury Common Premium Outlets or even drop by the many street stalls you’ll find in Chinatown!

And for those looking for something with a touch of quirky and vintage, the Big Apple also has something in store for you. The city has many thrift shops and budget-friendly boutiques catering to every style, whether gothic, boho, or colorful Y2K! Here are some of them below:

• Housing Works
• Beacon’s Closet
• Buffalo Exchange

No matter what kind of shopping you’re looking for, New York is sure to have something that will make your experience memorable. So if you’re ready to hit the stores, lace up those shoes and scour through endless racks!

Is Boston Better Than New York?

It’s the age-old question that has long graced dinner tables and coffee shops: is Boston better than New York? Whether you’re looking for a place to settle down or a spot to spend your hard-earned vacation, the answer isn’t so simple and straightforward. Both sites have unique charms and qualities that make them attractive to different people.

Boston is a charming place with an undeniable sense of character. It’s an American destination steeped in history, known for being one of the oldest cities in America. You’d undoubtedly find much entertainment here, from exploring its iconic trails to tasting the best seafood ever!

On the other hand, New York is a strong contender in the battle of the most exciting cities in the world. The city has an unparalleled skyline you can’t find anywhere else, with bright lights to amaze you everywhere. It’s also filled to the brim with famous landmarks, plus the nightlife is definitely to die for.

Is Boston Safer Than New York?

The findings of Numbeo revealed that Boston is a much safer city than New York. It has scored an impressive 60.74 on the Safety Scale Index, compared to the Big Apple’s grade of 50.33. To elaborate, data shows that Beantown has a grade of 57.64 regarding daytime safety. It also has a very high rating when it comes to nighttime security, with a whopping 81.47 mark.

Meanwhile, New York scored 70.79 in terms of safety during the day and 47.94 at night. Despite these numbers, the two US destinations are considered safe for large cities. This means you can enjoy Boston and New York without worrying too much about security. So long as you practice caution, you’d have the time of your life touring both American hotspots.

Crime Rate in Boston vs. New York

Based on Numbeo statistics, Boston has a lower crime rate than New York. It scored 39.26 on the Crime Index, while the Big Apple achieved a rating of 49.67.

In fact, data shows that you don’t have to worry about being mugged or having your items stolen in Beantown. There are also low chances of experiencing unfortunate incidents such as being attacked due to skin color and religion in the city. Meanwhile, New York has moderate chances of these occurring.

Don’t let these ratings affect your plans to go to New York, though! The city is well-known for having some of the best urban police forces in the country, so you’re in safe hands. You can still make the most of your vacation in the Big Apple; just remember to exercise some caution.

Is Boston More Expensive Than New York?

Rather than being more expensive, Boston is actually a lot cheaper than New York. This was revealed by Expatistan, with findings that show Beantown is 19% cheaper than the Big Apple. As such, if you’re choosing a getaway destination based on budget, go for Massachusetts’s state capital.

To give you a bit of detail, the food in Boston is 19% cheaper than in New York. For instance, you only have to spend $20 for a basic lunchtime menu in Beantown. The same meal would cost you about $23 in the Big Apple. If you were to order a glass of wine to go with your food, you’d only pay $16 in Boston while $18 in New York.

This is the same with transportation, with Beantown being 24% cheaper than the Big Apple. An 8 km (5 mi) taxi trip across the city costs only $18 in Boston and $21 in New York. Entertainment costs in these American cities are essentially the same, though. In fact, two tickets to the theater are generally priced at $350 in both Boston and New York.

Boston vs. New York Weather

Boston and New York are cities on the East Coast, meaning they have similar weather conditions. However, the latter is known for being hotter due to its location further south. It has more sunny days and a more pleasant temperature all year round, but not by a large margin.

To give you the details, Best Places showed that New York scored 7.3 out of 10 on their Comfort Index Scale. The city experiences about 224 sunny days annually, with the summer high reaching 84.2°F (29°C). Winter season yields about 25.3 in (642.6 mm) of snow, with the lowest temperature running 26.1°F (-3.3°C).

On the other hand, Boston scored 6.9 on the Best Places Comfort Index Scale. It has about 200 days of sunshine per year, with the summer temperature peaking at 82.4°F (28°C). On average, Beantown’s winter yields 48.1 in (1221.7 mm) of snow, with the coldest temperature reaching 19.2°F (-7.1°C).

Is Boston Colder Than New York?

Boston and New York are two coastal cities in the Northeast sporting similar climate. However, Beantown has colder weather, particularly because the Big Apple is further south.

In fact, the winter low in Beantown reaches 19.2°F (-7.1°C), with a yearly average snowfall of 48.1 in (1221.7 mm). Meanwhile, New York’s winter temperature reaches about 26.1°F (-3.3°C), with annual snowfall measuring only 25.3 in (642.6 mm). This shows that aside from having colder winters, Boston also has heavier ones.

Boston Pizza vs. New York Pizza

When it comes to having the best-tasting pizza, New York still reigns supreme. In fact, the Big Apple ranked first on Trip Advisor’s Top 10 US Pizza Cities, while Beantown bagged seventh place.

New York-style pizza is the most common one in America, typically made in gas ovens rather than coal. It has a thinner crust sprinkled with a thick layer of melted mozzarella cheese on top. Not only is it found in the Big Apple, but pretty much every city in the USA – and the world.

Meanwhile, the pizza scene in Boston can be described best as a melting pot. The city has no signature pizza style, with restaurants and pizzerias often combining recipes from other places. Take the Roman-style al taglio pizzas by Beantown’s T & B Pizza, for example. It’s inspired by rustic traditions with more modern toppings like raclette cheese and tuna crudo.

Boston Strip Steak vs. New York Strip

The difference between the Boston strip steak and the New York strip mainly lies in the cut. The latter is sourced from the sirloin subprimal, exactly a crosscut from the base sirloin flap. It’s considered one of the higher-class parts of beef meant to be the center of the plate presentation.

Meanwhile, the New York strip is from the beef short loin. It’s cut from the same section as the t-bone and filet mignon, sourced from the primal on the back of the ribs. It’s one of the most famous steaks in America and can easily be found in most parts of the country.

When it comes to taste, the clear winner depends on your personal preference. The Boston strip steak is known for being well-marbled and tender, perfect for grilling with minimal seasoning. The New York strip has a tight texture and solid chew, characterized by its intense, beefy flavors.

Is Boston in New York City?

No, Boston is not in New York City. Rather, they’re two different American destinations situated on the East Coast.

Where Is Boston and New York?

Both Boston and New York City are located in the northeastern part of the United States of America.

Where Is Boston in Relation to New York?

Boston can be found 346 km (215 mi) northeast of New York City.

Is New York Near Boston?

Yes, New York is near Boston. In fact, the two cities are sitting in the northeastern part of America. This means that you don’t have to journey across the globe to arrive from the Big Apple to Beantown and vice versa.

Boston vs. New York Size

When it comes to geographical size, New York wins against Boston. The Big Apple measures about 783.8 sq. km. (302.6 sq. mi), while Beantown only spans 232.1 sq. km. (89.6 sq. mi.). This means that Boston is over three times smaller than New York City.

Boston vs. New York Accent

Boston and New York are two prominent port cities on the East Coast, known for accumulating distinctive dialects. Both American spots are influenced by the United Kingdom, mainly those from Southern England. However, despite the similarity, they each have unique accents and pronunciations.

Beantown’s dialect is well-characterized by the lack of ‘r’, depending on the thickness of a person’s accent. Locals also speak in a raised and more nasal tone, particularly when pronouncing their vowels. For instance, the word ‘father’ would be pronounced as ‘fath-uh’ in a Bostonian accent.

Natives from New York also speak with lesser ‘r’ and have vowel emphasis. However, unlike other cities that use ‘-ing’ and ‘-in’, they pronounce their ‘g’ hard. A good example would be ‘Long Island’, which they enunciate as ‘Lawn Guy Land’ instead.

New York vs. Boston Roads

Both New York and Boston belong on Copilot Search’s list of US Cities With the Worst Roads. It was revealed that the latter occupied the sixth slot on the index while the former bagged fourth place. This is not surprising, especially since both cities’ roads are not exactly in tip-top shape.

To elaborate, 45.5% of New York’s roads are considered in poor condition. 18.7% of its interstates and freeways are also in bad need of repair. You’d find many potholes in the area, as well as experience considerable amounts of traffic.

Meanwhile, 39.3% of Boston’s roads are in a poor state, and 5.3% of its interstates and freeways are also flawed. However, yet another reason why the city’s roads are considered some of the worst is that they are confusing. It’s because Beantown is an old place, so the layouts are outdated, and navigating can be a pain.

Despite having imperfect roads, you’d still have fun exploring these two cities, though. New York and Boston can offer you the loveliest experiences and possess the prettiest landmarks. They’re well worth it, especially if you take the time to walk and uncover both American gems.

Boston to New York Distance by Flight

If you’re planning to travel from Boston to New York via plane, the distance will span about 307 km (191 mi). This means that if you’re riding a commercial airline with a speed of 805 km/h (500 mph), you will reach the Big Apple after only 22 minutes. However, the actual duration varies depending on weather conditions and cruise speed.

Boston to New York Drive

If you’re planning to drive from Boston to New York, there are two routes available for you. The first one goes along the coast, with the main path passing through the I-95. This is the more direct route, leading you to several wonderful spots in America. These include New Heaven, Mystic, Newport, Rhode Island, and Plimouth Plantation.

The second route leads you inland and allows you to cut through Western Massachusetts. This is the path for you if you’re not on a strict schedule or you simply want to enjoy more scenery. Driving inland to New York leads you to see several wonderful locations. These include the Sturbridge Village, Litchfield County, and the US Military Academy.

Drive From New York to Boston – Scenic Route

Out of the two routes leading from New York to Boston, going inland is the more scenic path. You’d have to cut through Western Massachusetts, meaning you get plenty more spots to marvel at. For instance, you can check out the pretty towns of Bridgeport, Stamford, and Fairfield. Dropping by Hartford, the beautiful capital of Connecticut, is also worth the trip.

Some of the most notable spots you can admire during your scenic drive include Wawayanda State Park, Long Island Sound, and Greenwich. There are also Natchaug and Nipmuck State Forests, as well as Kycut and Worcester.

Best Driving Route From New York to Boston

Out of the two driving routes from New York to Boston, the best one would be the path that serves your purpose the most. If you’re eager to reach Beantown in the quickest way possible, choose the coastal route. However, if your goal during the trip is to witness as many sceneries as you can, then go inland.

How Far Is Boston From New York by Car?

The driving distance from New York to Boston spans an average of 346 km (215 mi). If you’re traveling directly to Beantown, you’ll be behind the wheel for about 3 hours and 50 minutes. However, if you’re going on a fun road trip, the journey time may last for several days, maybe a few weeks.

Driving in Boston vs. New York

Boston and New York are both considered top-notch walkable cities, but you can’t say the same for their driving scenes. In fact, the two American destinations belong in Bloomberg’s list of top 10 Worst US Cities for Driving. Beantown ranked sixth, while the Big Apple bagged first place!

To elaborate, using a car in Boston may prove to be challenging. The city has tons of pedestrian lanes scattered around, but the culture of jaywalking is still prominent. The streets are also narrow and winding, meaning you can expect congestion even on days you won’t expect it.

Meanwhile, driving in New York can be even worse. Aside from high congestion levels, expect plenty of traffic jams. On top of that, toll fees can get really expensive, and places for parking are limited.

As such, it’s best not to bring a car over in both Boston and New York when traveling. In case you’re in need of personal transportation, then renting one can be your brightest solution. However, if you can help it, then walking is the key to properly navigating these American gems.

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Boston vs New York

In this article

Both Boston and New York have a lot to offer in terms of opportunity and culture. They are the two largest cities in the northeast, which explains why there is a lot of comparison between these two cities.

At a first glance, one might be quick to conclude that New York is better than Boston because it is larger and offers more opportunities. While some might agree with this, it doesn't sit well for some people. Though New York might be better than Boston in a number of categories, Boston still stands out in some essential categories.

So, before you arrive at a conclusion, let's explore some of the essential categories and see how Boston compares to New York in each category.

New York vs Boston: Essential Differences

Boston and New York are large cities in the United States and are both located in the northeastern region. They are similar cities and are usually compared to know which is better for specific categories of people. New York has an area of 300.46 square miles, while Boston has 48.34 square miles. The two cities are similar yet diverse at the same time.

Generally, New York offers more opportunities than Boston, better transport systems, cuisine and lifestyle, as well as the city culture. These are just some of the reasons why tourists love taking a New York holiday . On the other hand, Boston has a lower cost of living, commute time, and quality of life index.

In the real sense, New York and Boston meet the needs of different sets of people. New York, for example, has a better cuisine and leisure atmosphere than Boston, while Boston has a lower commute time, making it ideal for people who want to commute the least.

Housing Prices and Rental Costs

New York rental cost is about 30% more expensive than Boston. The average rent in New York is $3,515, while it is $2,716 in Boston and $1,681 is the US average. A studio apartment in New York generally costs $2,402, $1,652 in Boston, and $949 in the US. Housing prices also follow the same trend, with New York being more expensive than Boston, which is more expensive than the US average.

The average cost of a home in the US is $291,700; in Boston, it is $667,000, and $1,144,100 in New York. On average, homes in New York are about 13% younger than homes in Boston. It could be a possible explanation for the higher average cost of housing in New York, among other reasons.

Boston vs New York: The Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of utilities, health, housing, transportation, food, groceries, and transportation are all contributors to the cost of living in an area. Boston takes the medal for the lower cost of living, as it is about 37.1% cheaper to live in than New York. The living cost in New York is about 129% higher than the national average in the US, while Boston is only about 48%.

The most significant difference between the cost of living in New York and Boston is the cost of housing. Boston is the US's fourth most expensive city. New York is the first, San Francisco is the second, and Honolulu is the third. The remaining utilities and running costs are not much different.

4. Walk Through New York's Glass Waterfall Tunnel

New York is full of surprises. One of them is a glass waterfall tunnel right in the middle of Manhattan. The glass waterfall lies against the western side of the McGraw building and is a 4-minutes walk from the hustle and bustle of Times Square. The serene waterfall attracts lots of tourists.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in New York City is one of the best in the United States. It is one of the only cities worldwide that can boast a 24/7 transport system. Commuters can move across the city anytime they want at a flat rate. Boston has a functional transport system that starts at 5 am and stops at 1 am. Both Boston and New York City have subways, ferries, commuter rails, ferries, buses, and taxis for tourists to get around the city.

Boston takes the medal for public transportation as they have cheaper fares and lower commute time. Boston has a lower commute time than New York City, possibly due to the lower population in NYC. NYC makes up for it with its 24/7 service time.

Crime Rates: Is Boston Safer Than New York?

The two cities are safe to live in for large cities. New York is safer than Boston by a small margin. It could be attributed to the New York Police Department (NYPD) being one of the most funded police departments in the country.

On a scale of 1 to 100, with the former being the lowest and the latter being the highest, NYC lies at 37.7 for violent crime crimes and 37.3 for Boston, compared to the national average of 22.7. For property crime, New York has a rating of 31, while Boston has 35.8, compared to the 35.4 national average according to Best Places. On average, the two cities are safe, and your security is guaranteed with basic safety and preventive measures.

Boston vs New York Size and Population

New York City is the most populous city in the United States, with a population of over 8.6 million, while Boston has a population of 687,257. NYC has a land area of 300.46 square miles, with a population density of 29,729 individuals per square mile. Boston has a land area of 48.34 square miles and a population density of 14,217 individuals per square mile.

New York is the most densely populated city, followed closely by San Francisco and Boston. Boston is the third-most populous, despite its population being only about 687,257.

Boston and NYC have a similar composition of races, including whites, Black, Asians, Native Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics. By its density, NYC is more densely populated and crowded when compared to any other city in the United States.

Museums and Historical Sites: Which One Is Better?

Both New York City and Boston have very memorable and historical sites, but NYC takes the call for this category. New York has the Museum Mile and is home to one of the world's most concentrated art displays showcasing rich history.

New York City's historic sites include the Grand Central Station, Empire State Building, Greenwich Village, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Rockefeller Christmas tree, Central park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty. There are many more museums of fine arts and fun places to visit in NYC. It is also home to many tall buildings in the United States.

Boston also has its share of museums and historical sites to show the world. It may not be as elaborate as New York City, but it holds history in its way. Some areas include the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library, Harvard University, USS Constitution Museum, the Old State House, Commonwealth Museum, and the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation area.

Cuisine Landscape: Restaurants and Street Food Options

Both Boston and New York City have interesting cuisine options; however, New York has a larger cuisine culture, giving them the medal for this category. New York is referred to as a melting pot because many ethnicities are coming together to form a homogenous mix. With every culture in the combination comes special food peculiar to them.

One of the most famous street food options in New York is Pizza. The NYC pizza is hand-tossed into a thin crust, thick around the edges, soft and thin along the middle, making it easily folded in half. The New York-style pizza has gained recognition and is sold worldwide.

Boston offers a wide range of food options that are laidback and family oriented. Some of the most common foods include baked beans, Lobster rolls, Fish and chips, Boston cream pie, and Fenway Frank.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Boston and New York City are very different cities where entertainment and nightlife are concerned. New York City never sleeps; it has a well-lightened city center and a transport system that works round the clock. There are vibrant clubs, music, and comedy, along with pubs, making New York City the winner for nightlife and entertainment.

The entertainment scene in New York costs more but is a price to pay for the bliss the city offers.

Boston also has nightlife and entertainment activities that help the inhabitants and tourists to relax. The locations for entertainment and nightlife are somewhat smaller in size compared to New York City and are more family oriented. The less hustle and bustle of Boston makes for a more relaxed lifestyle..

Fashion & Shopping

It is hard to crown any city the winner of this category, as what is lacking in one city is present in the other one. New York has some of the best designer fashion shops on the east coast, including Nordstrom, Canada Goose, Nanamica New York, Calvin Klein, Hermes, and BODE New York.

New York is one of the most convenient places for a shopping spree, as there are neighborhoods and markets for fashion and shopping. Some areas include Madison Ave, Union Square, Chinatown, and Fifth Avenue.

Boston is also a place for fashion and shopping; however, the average pricing of the Boston fashion industry is cheaper than in New York. The more affordable pricing can be attributed to Boston's lower sales tax than New York. The sales tax in Boston starts after $180, while New York starts at around $110.

People who visit Boston for a shopping spree need to know that some stores may not be available there and should not pass on the option in New York.

The Climate: Which City Has a More Enjoyable Weather?

Both Boston and New York City are located on the east coast, meaning they have similar climate conditions. New York City's weather is a little warmer than Boston's because it is located further south. New York City has a higher coefficient of sunshine and average temperature. NYC and Boston have the same level of rainfall and UV index, while Boston has cold winters, a higher snowfall, and precipitation index.

And not only that, winters in New York can be magical, so this city has been voted as one of the top US destinations for a Christmas vacation.

New York City or The Big Apple has more enjoyable weather than Boston by a small margin. On the index of comfortability, a higher number implies more comfortable weather. NYC has a rating of 7.2, Boston has 6.9, and the national average is 7. Boston has weather that is about 4% less comfortable than New York.

Is Boston Cleaner Than New York?

Studies suggest that New York is cleaner than Boston. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the dirtiest and 10 being the cleanest, New York has a 5.86 score, and Boston has a 5.53 score. The cleanest city in the US is California, with a 7.36 rating; the dirtiest is Kentucky, with a 2.12 cleanliness score.

Boston is applauded for how much it has been transformed over the past decades, making it one of the cleanest cities in the United States. The Boston Harbor was very polluted in the 1960s; however, with active steps, the harbor has transformed into a clean and healthy water body. Air pollution in the two cities is also minimal, making the city clean and safe for habitation.

Boston and New York Pros & Cons

Boston and New York have different pros and cons. Boston has a lower cost of living, lower commute times, and a better quality of life index. Boston is best for a more relaxed lifestyle while spending less money than New York.

Whichever city you like more, keep in mind that you may need either a visa for New York , or you’ll need to check the travel requirements for Boston . However, if you come from one of the 40 countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program, you can apply for an ESTA, which is a quick and easy way to gain access to the US. In addition, it can entirely be completed online.

To be eligible for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, your visit to the US has to be less than 90 days in total.

The Bottom Line

The bottom line is that New York City takes the lead in most categories. New York and Boston are great cities to live in, with world-famous sites. The property crime rate in New York is higher than in Boston. Boston has a higher education coefficient because it has more colleges and educational activities. By population density, New York is one of the largest cities in the US, meaning the average New Yorker is always in a crowded place.

Written by Abisola Fikayomi

Abisola is an accomplished writer interested in US Travel, immigration, passports and visas. She’s passionate about exploring new places and cultures and willing to share her experiences, expertize and findings with others. That is her primary drive for specialising in this industry.

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When is the perfect time to visit Boston?

May 27, 2023 • 3 min read

Long evenings full of sunshine make summer a popular time to visit Boston © Marcio Jose Bastos Silva / Shutterstock

Though summer is arguably Beantown’s high season, Boston flaunts its magic all year round.

The public parks , harbor and surrounding waterfront offer a wealth of activities for everyone year-round – from ice skating on the frozen ponds in winter to outdoor yoga come spring, picnics and pop-up beer gardens in summer, and autumn strolls under falling golden leaves. Here's how to choose the best time to visit Boston for you.

June to August is Boston in all its glory

Summer, generally June to August, is the glory time for Boston’s showcase attractions like outdoor sporting events and waterfront dining. Of course, it can also mean crowds of visitors at the city’s most coveted attractions – walking the Freedom Trail , sailing the Harbor, indulging in a lobster feast at a waterside restaurant, and meandering the boutiques and galleries along Newbury Street.

Boston’s version of restaurant week, called “ Dine Out Boston ,” takes place twice a year, including once in August, so you can find some good deals. It’s wise to book hotels and excursions as far in advance as possible if you’re visiting in summer to ensure you won’t miss out.

June sees average temperatures in the mid-70s, while July and August's temperatures increase to the low- to mid-80s, though that can feel hotter depending on where you are in the concrete jungle. The occasional summer storm might roll in, but there are plenty of indoor attractions too, like the New England Aquarium and great museums.

March to May and September through November bring colorful flowers and foliage

Spring and autumn are wonderful in Boston, with balmy, mild temperatures perfect for strolling and exploring. Crowds will be thinner and the backdrop is full of spring flowers like rosy-hued magnolias from March to May, while September through November means the reds and yellows of New England leaves.

Key events in spring include the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in March and the Boston Marathon in April. In fall, September brings Oktoberfest festivities throughout the city, when you can count on food vendors, live entertainment and, of course, lots of beer. The third weekend in October is the Head of the Charles Regatta , three days of rowing races on the Charles River that attract thousands of elite competitors and several hundred thousand spectators.

Average temperatures in spring and fall typically range from 50-60F, with early fall offering the possibility of summer-like stretches of sunshine.

December to February is best for fewer crowds and lower costs

It’s really no secret that Boston winters are cold, and they can also be pretty snowy. Furthermore, though Chicago’s moniker is the “windy city,” a variety of statistics show that Boston is actually windier. With all that said, if you come prepared – pack a warm jacket and cozy accessories – Boston’s low season can be enjoyable because of its low tourist numbers and more local atmosphere. Plus, you’re more likely to snag reservations at favored restaurants.

December also means holiday magic; twinkling trees and festive pop-ups are a great reason to brave the chill. Another is the three-month-long Boston Wine & Food Festival , which starts mid-January and runs through the end of March.

Do dress appropriately, though. The cold temperatures typically blow in during December, averaging between 30 to 40F, but that dips in January and February, when average lows hover between 20-25F. Wind chill can often exacerbate the cold, making temperatures feel even lower (don’t forget to look at the “feels like” temperature on the weather to be sure you’re properly prepared).

This article was first published May 2021 and updated May 2023

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Boston vs New York: Which City is The Best to Live In?

Choosing between Boston vs New York is a difficult decision because the two are known as the greatest cities in the world. Both are located on the east coast and are great places to live, with a wide variety of employment opportunities, educational institutions, and cultural attractions to explore.

Let’s check how Boston compares to New York and which is the better city!

Read also: LA vs NYC? Which City is Best to Live in 2024

Quick Comparison

Boston and NYC both are amazing cities to live in. They share some great features which are the following:

• Good public transportation;
• Best accommodations;
• A varied economy;
• Countless cultural events.

While both have their differences as well. Boston has a compact layout and a relaxed city vibe while NY is densely populated and has cultural diversity. However, these 2 cities have considerably more to offer.

Continue reading as we discuss their living costs, employment, education, crime rates, and much much more.

Comparing Boston vs New York: Comparison Chart

Let’s have a quick look at how NY and Boston compare:

Pros and Cons of Living: NY Vs Boston

Considering the pros and cons of both Boston and New York will help you make up your mind about where to settle down. They’re both good and bad in different ways. See below how Boston and New York compare.

Pros of Boston

Firstly, let’s explore the positives:

• Rich history : Boston has more history than any other city in the United States. Everything from the oldest public school and subway system to the cobbled sidewalks and ancient landmarks along the Freedom Trail contributes to the city’s historic beauty and character.
• Downtown: It’s easy to get about on foot in Boston. Beacon Hill, the South End, and even Cambridge are all within easy walking distance from here. Due to its history and compact core, Boston is one of the most bikeable and walkable cities in the US.
• Activities: Boston is an exciting city full of attractions and enjoyable events, whether you enjoy attending shows, taking in history, seeing the sights, sporting events, or exploring the outdoors. Some of the reasons why Boston is considered an arts mecca are the Huntington Theatre and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Cons of Boston

Now, let’s have a look at the downsides:

• Cost of living : The high cost of living is unquestionably a negative aspect of life in Boston. Moreover, excellent educational institutes are not cheap as well.
• Renting an apartment : Boston’s rental markets are both crowded and tough to manage. If you’re looking for a rental in Boston, you might have to spend more to work with a real estate agent. The vast majority of rental properties are single-family homes with many units.

Pros of New York

What’s great about NY is highlighted below:

• Lifestyle : When comparing New York to Boston, the city’s 24-hour party scene and general ease of living put it in the lead. There are bars open until 4 a.m., restaurants that serve until dawn, nightclubs, and excitement at every turn in New York City, making it a city that never sleeps.
• Diversity : Having access to cuisines and traditions from all over the world is just one perk of calling New York City home. New York is additionally the most diverse city in the world, with people of countless races living there. Another amazing fact is that more than 600 different languages are spoken in New York.

Cons of New York

The following things give a minus one to NY:

Read Also: Philadelphia vs New York City: Which One is the Best City?

• Hectic Atmosphere: New York City, known as the “city that never sleeps,” may be a stressful place to live if you prefer a quieter routine. The incessant activity, noise, traffic, and city culture might tire you out.
• Cramped Environment: New York is the most densely populated city in the US. Living in New York City style involves adjusting to a small apartment. Due to its high cost and strong demand, New York City has among of the smallest studio apartments in the United States, with an average size of 550 square feet.

Population and Area of Boston vs. New York City

The three cities with the highest population densities are New York, San Francisco, and Boston, in that order.

• Boston has a population of 687,3 thousand while New York has 8,4 million, making it the most populous city in the US.

• New York City is 778.2 sq. km in size with a population density of 11,232 people/sq.km.
• There are 5396 people/sq.km living in Boston’s 232.1 sq. km area.
• Caucasians, African-Americans, Asians, Native Americans, Polynesians, and Hispanics all coexist peacefully in both Boston and New York City.

Housing Expenses in New York and Boston

The average New York City apartment rent is 30% more than the average Boston one.

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• Average rent: New York City’s median rent of $3,515 is much more than Boston’s median rent of $2,716 and the national median of $1,681.
• Average rent for studio: The average monthly rent for a studio in the United States is $1,652, compared to $2,402 in New York and $2,300 in Boston.
• The average cost of a house: Houses in New York cost higher than in Boston, both having higher costs than the national average. The national average for the price of a home is $291,700; in Boston, it’s $667,000 while for NY it’s $1,144,100.
• Newer houses: The average New York City home is nearly 13 years newer than a comparable Boston one. Among other things, it could explain why New York City has a higher average home price than other cities.

Living Expenses in NYC and Boston

The cost of living is affected by a variety of factors, including healthcare, housing, transportation, groceries, and transportation.

• Cost of living: When comparing the two cities, Boston wins hands down due to its significantly lower cost of living by around 37%. New York has a cost of living of 129% more than the US average, whereas Boston’s is just around 48% higher.

• Rent: New York City’s rent is 35% more than that of Boston and its restaurants are also 20% more expensive than its counterpart.
• Consumer cost: New York has 17% higher consumer costs than Boston. The cost of groceries in New York is also 17% more than in Boston.

The housing markets in New York City and Boston are very different. When compared to other American cities, Boston ranks #4 in terms of cost of living. First is New York, then San Francisco, and finally Honolulu. The rest of the operating expenses and utility bills are comparable.

Employment in Boston vs New York

In terms of employment possibilities, here’s what you need to know:

• Job: NYC offers opportunities in Financial services, healthcare, retail, technology, and education all contribute to its robust job economy. Boston’s economy is concentrated in the medical, financial, and academic sectors. Moreover, Boston’s average salary is greater than its counterpart.
• Salary: The average yearly salary in New York is around $60,000-$65,000, while the average in Boston is around $70,000. While the average salary in Boston is higher, the variety and number of paying opportunities are greater in New York.

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The job market may be fierce, but those with the right mix of skills may succeed in practically any field.

Comparing New York and Boston Taxes

Here is a comparison of the income, property, and sales tax in both Boston and NYC:

• Income tax: The income tax in Boston is a flat 5% for all brackets, while NYC has nine tax brackets that range from 4%-10.9%.
• Property tax: The property tax in Boston is 1.14% of the property’s value while in NYC it is 1.4%.
• Sales tax: Boston has a sales tax of 6.25% while in NYC it is 8.52%.

The Lifestyle of Boston vs New York

Let’s take a look at what is a lifestyle for these two cities:

• Many people choose to settle in Boston because of the more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere it provides.
• New York, on the other hand, is focused on business and has 24-hour entertainment options including nightclubs and karaoke bars.

So, New York City does have more exciting things going on, but it’s not for everyone.

How Educational Institutes Differ

Massachusetts whose capital is Boston has the best educational system in the country, with only 2% of high school students dropping out while New York City ranked 13th.

Let’s take a look at the best institutes for college students as well as the best preschools for your toddlers.

Colleges: Boston vs New York

Higher education options are an essential part of any Boston vs. New York comparison.

• Cambridge, a suburb of Boston, is where two of the most prominent universities in the United States are located: Harvard and MIT.

• Boston also has one-third of the state’s college enrolment while having only 10% of the population.
• The city is home to 35 institutions, community colleges, and universities.

Compared to Boston, New York doesn’t offer as much:

• If you’re looking for prestige, you won’t find much in New York. That is why Boston is the better choice to attend college.

Preschools in Boston and NYC

Both NYC and Boston have a variety of excellent preschools for your child to attend. Some of the best will be listed as follows:

• The 92nd Street Y, New York: The 92nd Street Y, New York Pre-School has been open since 1938, and throughout that time it has given a nurturing environment that encourages young children’s curiosity, creativity, and intelligence. Through a curriculum tailored to kids’ individual stages of growth, the program helps kids succeed in all areas of development.
• Adelphi Academy, New York: The Adelphi Academy in Brooklyn welcomes students for live, in-person classes. Since its founding in 1863, this venerable Bay Ridge school has been at the forefront of private education, setting the standard for educating the “total child” from preschool through high school. Adelphi provides one-on-one care in a warm, friendly, and supportive community.
• Bright Horizons, Boston: Families all across the US rely on Bright Horizons to take care of and educate their children. They have one of the best daycare and provide quality education to the little ones.
• Pine Village: Pine Village Preschool is a well-respected Spanish immersion school with 10 campuses serving the Greater Boston area’s toddlers and preschoolers. The school prepares students for global citizenship and attracts progressive, internationally-minded families that want to help their children get a head start on learning a foreign language.

Learn About the Crime Rate of Both Cities

While both cities have low crime rates relative to their size, Boston is marginally dangerous.

• Boston has a violent crime score of 37.3 and a property crime score of 35.8 on the Best Places index.
• In comparison, New York has a violent crime rate of 28.2 and a property crime rate of 24.9.
• The New York Police Department, however, is one of the best-funded in the country, which gives it a lead from Boston.

Boston vs New York: Weather

Both cities experience similar weather patterns due to their proximity along the northeastern coast of the United States. They have a humid continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters.

However, there are some differences:

• Boston has a slightly colder winter (-2 to 5 degrees Celsius) compared to NY’s (1 to 5 degrees Celsius).
• Boston experiences an average of about 49 inches of snow per year, while New York receives around 25 inches of snow annually.
• During the summer, both cities experience hot and humid weather. Average temperatures in Boston range from (24 to 29 degrees Celsius), while New York City sees slightly higher temperatures, ranging from (25 to 32 degrees Celsius).

Public Transportation in Boston and NYC

New York City’s subway system is highly regarded as one of the best in the country. The most notable thing is that you may use public transportation at any time of day or night. Travelers can move anywhere inside the city at their convenience for a set charge.

On the other hand, Boston is a little time-restricted. The Boston Subway runs reliably between the hours of 5 a.m. and 1 a.m.

• Visitors to either Boston or New York City can use the extensive public transportation networks to reach where they need to go.
• When it comes to public transit, Boston wins hands down due to its lower fares and shorter commuting times.

See Related: New York City vs Chicago: Which is the Best State to Live In

It’s possible that New York City’s higher population causes the longer commuting times there compared to Boston. But, the plus point is that in NY, you can get anything at any time.

Cleanliness in Boston and NYC

According to the data, NYC is cleaner than Boston. New York City ranks 5.86 and Boston 5.53 on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the dirtiest and 10 being the cleanest.

• NY has worked so much on waste and recycling management.
• On the other hand, Boston has also greatly improved its cleanliness during the previous decades.

After years of effort, Boston Harbor, which was severely polluted in the 1960s, is now a pristine body of water. The air quality in both cities is high, with very low levels of pollution.

Boston’s vs NYC’s Entertainment Scene

When it comes to fun things to do after dark, Boston and NYC couldn’t be more different. The one place they are similar in is sports. The 2 cities have a fantastic rivalry in baseball. Both the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox always compete for the title in each MLB season.

• NYC is always open for business, with brightly lit streets and a reliable public transportation system that operates 24/7. Its nightlife is unparalleled due to the city’s abundance of lively clubs, music and comedy venues, and pubs.
• The best nightlife venues are situated in Chelsea, midtown areas of the meatpacking district, and Greenwich villages.

• The greater expense of NYC’s vibrant nightlife is a little price to pay for the happiness it provides.

On the other hand, Boston’s nightlife and entertainment options are great for residents and visitors looking to unwind. When compared to its counterpart, the entertainment and nightlife hotspots here are smaller and more family-friendly.

• North End, South End, and Faneuil Hall are all great places to eat and drink.
• The downtown club scene is located in what is known as “The Theatre District.”

Comparing the Cuisine of NYC and Boston

If you’re looking for the best food, go no further than New York. It is renowned for its culinary scene, offering a vast array of international cuisines.

• From iconic New York-style pizza and bagels to high-end dining experiences and Michelin-starred restaurants, the city provides a wide range of options to satisfy all tastes.
• New York is especially famous for its world-renowned New York Cheesecake.

On the other hand, Boston is also no less.

• It is known for its seafood and traditional New England fare.
• Boston’s cuisine often emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors.
• The city is famous for dishes like Boston cream pie, clam chowder, lobster rolls, and fresh oysters.

Boston vs NYC in Terms of Style and Shopping

It’s tough to single out one city as the best because each has strengths and weaknesses.

• Many of the East Coast’s finest designer boutiques may be found in New York.
• Among the most convenient cities for a shopping trip, New York is home to several fashion districts and retail marketplaces.
• Madison Avenue, Union Square, Chinatown, and Fifth Avenue are just a few examples of such places.

Boston is another great city for shopping and trendsetting.

• It boasts markedly lower average prices than New York City.
• Items such as designer clothes and electronics in New York cost higher than in Boston due to the latter’s reduced sales tax.
• Boston’s sales tax begins at around $180, whereas New York’s begins at roughly $110.

Life Satisfaction Rating

Numbeo claims that Boston is the place with the best quality of life. Factors like crime rates, access to quality medical care, weather, the cost of living, housing costs as a percentage of income, and traffic and pollution levels are included on this scale.

• Boston received a high score (175.95) on this scale.
• New York, on the other hand, had a modest score of 138.9.

For more insights, I would recommend you check out this amazing video:

Is NYC or Boston better?

Both NYC and Boston have different city cultures. NYC has an unparalleled nightlife and entertainment scene and has the hustle and bustle of a grand city. On the other hand, Boston has a more relaxed lifestyle and better educational institutes. Both are good in their own ways.

How expensive is Boston compared to NYC?

The living costs are around 15.6% higher in NYC compared to Boston.

Why are Boston and New York rivals?

Boston and NYC are rivals due to their history, in which people from these 2 cities fought multiple times. In modern times it has evolved into a sports rivalry, mainly between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox baseball teams.

Is living in Boston worth it?

Living in Boston is worth it because of its relaxed atmosphere, its many elite educational institutes, and its rich history.

Both cities offer a very different but equally amazing living experience. The food, such as the NYC pizza and Cheesecake, and the culture of New York, such as its diversity and bustling lifestyle, are very attractive points that may persuade many to go and live there. Its entertainment scene like sporting events and the famous NYC Broadway plays is world-renowned.

However, Boston is not a bad choice either. It boasts a fascinating history, with much of it on display at the Boston Museum. Its lifestyle differs greatly from New York, with a more laid-back approach to life. On top of that, it has some of the best universities in the whole world including the super-famous Harvard and MIT.

In short, both cities have their appeal. You can’t go wrong choosing either one.

• City Rivalry Week

11 Reasons Why Boston Is so Much Better Than NYC

Published on 8/2/2013 at 10:00 PM

To honor City Rivalry Week -- that very special one week out of the year when we get to celebrate why our particular city is so much better than any other one -- we've decided to turn our attention to our neighbors to the Southwest, NYC, so we can better inform and educate them on just a few of the myriad reasons why we're so damn superior. To wit:

During the Revolutionary War, your city housed 30,000 British sailors and soldiers -- all anchored around, ew, Staten Island -- and you nearly got George Washington captured. Meanwhile, in case you didn't know, WE CREATED THIS WHOLE AMERICAN REVOLUTION THING.

You know what a New York accent is? It's like a Boston accent, if you took out your vocal chords, rolled them around in sharp glass and gravel, and then sent them to live platonically with 1993 Marisa Tomei.

Clam Chowder

Our clam chowder is delicious, world-famous, and has been around since the 1700s. Manhattan-style clam chowder was invented in the 1930s while people were in a Great Depression, and is essentially tomato soup with clams in it. Even Rhode Island clam chowder kicks your chowder's ass, and it's coming from Rhode Island .

Summer Hangs

NY has the Jersey Shore, and the Hamptons, where rich cheesy people literally build giant mansions and nightclubs out by the ocean just to replicate their city experience. We've got Cape Cod, which is shaped like a salty, storm-weathered strongman flexing his nautically tattooed bicep, as well as the rich man's Cape Cod (Nantucket) and some other small island where the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES VACATIONS. Plus, in seventh grade, I almost Frenched a girl from Lexington on the Flying Horses despite being freaked out by their terrifyingly real horse hair. That seemed like an important addition to this argument.

Politicians

Yours take down high-priced hookers, call themselves weird nicknames, and sext people online, even after saying that they're sorry that they sexted people online . Ours just mumble adorably unintelligible things and use sweet, food-related sports metaphors, such as: “Much like a cookie, I predict the Yankee dynasty will crumble, and the results will be delicious for Red Sox fans."

OK, fine. NY has won 47 major professional sports championships. BUT, that makes sense. You're the biggest city in the US, you've got nearly double the amount of teams playing for your city (seven: Yankees, Mets, Knicks, Nets, Jets, Giants, and Rangers) to our four (Sox, Pats, Celtics, Bruins), and, meanwhile, we've won the second most (34), and we're the 21st biggest city in the US. We're still dominating, and we're even smaller than the narco-trafficking paradise of El Paso! And, while we're piling on a bit, neither of your football teams play their home games in your state, and you've never even known what it's like to drink from the cup of glory that is winning a Major League Lacrosse championship.

The Big Apple, huh? Apparently because of your "prominence in horse racing" in the 1920s. So, you're basically like a giant thing that a horse wants to eat. Or, if that isn't sexy enough, maybe you'd prefer the City That Never Sleeps, a nickname that essentially serves as an advertisement for symptoms of anti-anxiety drug withdrawal. Meanwhile, we'll take The Hub (of the universe), The Cradle of Liberty, or The Athens of America. Though, we're willing to hear offers for "The Walking City".

Sister Cities

Ours, Cambridge, is an international hub of technological innovation, houses two of the best colleges in the country, has six sweet squares (well, five, plus Lechmere) and at least one Cosi. Yours, Brooklyn, has a bunch of Skidmore and Vassar grads in ironic dad jeans and trilby hats hand-pickling Swiss chard and starting alt-third wave ska bands with electroclash sensibilities. And: NO F-ING COSI'S!

Matt mother%^&$ing Damon

Yes, we know your bars close at 4a, whereas ours shut down around 1:45a. Well, here's a little known fact: nothing good has EVER happened between the hours of 2-4a in a bar. I think, when the Puritans created those blue laws, they were actually just trying to save us from getting in bar fights and sexing extremely mediocre-looking people.

Because some things don't require any explanation.

If you've got more reasons why Boston kicks NYC's ass, let's hear about 'em in the comments below.

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Boston makes history but, even now, we're still forging our identity. The spark that fueled the fight for American independence burns just as brightly today and inspires our food, beer, and not-so-dirty water. It’s built five-star stays and world-class venues accessible in all four seasons. 

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Martha's Vineyard

• Things To Do
• Restaurants
• Travel Tips

The Perfect Weekend Getaway: Martha’s Vineyard From Boston or New York City

Our new series on weekend road trips aims to inspire you for what's to come as we slowly return to travel.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: Make sure to check the status of the states , regions, and establishments in which you’re planning to visit prior to travel. Many regions continue to see high infection rates and deaths, while many states and counties remain under varying stay-at-home orders. Those traveling from areas with high rates of Covid-19 should consider avoiding travel for now in order to reduce spread.

Located just seven miles south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, this triangular island is home to pristine beaches and pastoral farm fields, candy-colored gingerbread Victorians and Whaling Captains’ houses, scenic bike rides, and the iconic Jaws Bridge (and if your dreams involve lobster: lobster brunches, lobster rolls, lobster bakes, and lobster ice cream, too).

While it has a reputation as the summer retreat of Hollywood stars and presidential families (Jackie O., Oprah, and the Obamas, just to name a few “O’s”), “the Vineyard” is not at all scene-y. The vibe (and dress code) is “relaxed New England”—casual, laidback, and a lot less popped-collar than its sister island, Nantucket. The island has six towns: the rural and wild Chilmark, West Tisbury, and Aquinnah are referred to as Up-Island, while the more densely-populated and lively towns of Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and Vineyard Haven are known as Down-Island. The only other directions you need involve getting from Off-Island to On-Island, which includes advance ferry reservations and a salty sea breeze.

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Insider tip up-island and down-island do not refer to north and south but the westerly latitude and longitude coordinates, dating to the island’s whaling days. west is up, and east is down, getting there.

Ferries to Martha’s Vineyard leave from several locations along Cape Cod as well as from New Bedford, Massachusetts, and Kingston, Rhode Island; by taking the ferry from Rhode Island, you can avoid the Cape Cod traffic on a busy weekend. The ride only takes about 35 minutes. In addition, there is a SeaStreak ferry from New York City that takes five hours. Flights to Martha’s Vineyard depart from big-city hubs as far south as Washington, D.C.

Allow sufficient time for traffic in summer months from Boston or New York, especially on Route 24 or Route 3 (south from Boston) and near the Bourne or Sagamore Bridges crossing the Cape Cod Canal. Driving time from Boston to Woods Hole is usually about 90 minutes, but can double during the summer. Driving time from New York to Woods Hole is generally around four hours, though in the summer, 5-7 hours is possible.

Fresh off the ferry (before noon if you hit the road early) and clean out of snacks thanks to the seagulls, you’ll want to refuel and gear up for the weekend with a stop at the harborfront  Black Dog Tavern . It’s a bit of a tourist-trap but also a local institution (in business since 1971), so line up for lobster eggs Benedict or chowder, and smile your best smile when asking for a seat on the patio. Afterward, walk two minutes to the Black Dog General Store  to gear up with t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, water bottles, and coffee mugs emblazoned with the silhouette of a black Labrador. The Black Dog logo is a signal to everyone On-Island that you are a visitor and to everyone Off-Island that you’ve got great taste in weekend destinations.

Shake off the early-morning-car-ride-cobwebs by swapping four wheels for  two for the afternoon. Most bike rental companies on the island offer free island-wide drop-off and pick-up bikes, so arrange to have yours waiting for you at your hotel. The island is home to 44 miles of bike trails but a one-hour ride along the coastline from Oak Bluffs to remote Chappaquiddick Island—aka “Chappy” or “the site of that Ted Kennedy car accident”—provides a great Day 1 intro to the island’s appeal. Stop at the Jaws Bridge (between Oak Bluffs and Edgartown along Beach Road) for the obligatory photo of you jumping into waters that once hosted a movie shark attack.

On Chappy, bike to the island’s most remote lighthouse, relax on windswept beaches, bird-watch in  Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge , and visit Mytoi’s Japanese-inspired gardens before heading back to town. The total ride is about 18 miles (nine miles each way), with a two-minute ferry to cross the water.

Keep up your Vineyard-Classics roll by heading to  Nancy’s for a classic lobster roll and an iconic Dirty Banana cocktail. In fact, have two, as you’re letting someone else take the wheel for the evening.

Sail into the sunset with  Farm Field Sea  on a two-hour, BYOB sunset sail to a working oyster farm, complete with shucking demos, tastings, and stunning views of the Vineyard Sound. Back on dry land, head to the  Lookout Tavern  for brews with killer views. If all that salty air is still keeping you buoyant, hit  Offshore Ale Co.  for a nightcap.

Kick start your first full day with the best breakfast spot on the island,  Art Cliff Diner . This beloved diner has been around since 1943, and you cannot go wrong with its time-tested breakfast menu, especially if you include a side of buttery biscuits.

Today, you should head Up-Island (which now that you’re practically a salty local, you know means head west) to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Martha’s Vineyard with its storybook fishing villages, dense woods, and abundance of fisheries and farms. Stock up on cheeses, salads, fruits, juices, bread, and—you deserve this—pie(s) at Morning Glory Farm  en route, a family-run farm in business since 1975. These pies and other supplies will fuel your morning exploring  Long Point Wildlife Refuge , a spectacular 600-acre reservation with woodland hiking trails, salt- and freshwater ponds, windswept dunes, and beautiful beaches. You can rent kayaks and Standup Paddleboards at Long Cove Pond in summer and bird-watch in the off-season here.

Spend the afternoon enjoying the charms of Up-Island’s quaint fishing villages. Wander the picturesque 18th-century town of West Tisbury, where you will find Alleys General Store (“dealing in almost everything” since 1858) and the West Tisbury Congregational Church (dealing in all the rest since 1865). The Field Gallery & Sculpture Garden showcases a whimsical collection of sculptures and local art. Stop at  Larsen’s Fish Market  in Menemsha fishing village to pick up stuffed scallops and fresh catch to enjoy on the village’s tranquil beach. Wander around the shops here and then head to neighboring Chilmark, known for its rolling hills and meadows and its not-so-secret gem,  Chilmark General Store . Then head to the remote town of Aquinnah in the westernmost tip of Martha’s Vineyard, to take in its striking clay cliffs, natural dunes, the historic and active Gay Head Lighthouse (in operation since 1799), and Wampanoag Indian history and art. Follow a scenic trail to Moshup Beach for a quick sunset skinny dip if the mood so takes you. If you’re not ready to retire yet, head to the Great Rock Bight Preserve for even more scenic hiking, views, beaches, and stunning scenery.

Cap off a nature-filled day with a special meal at West Tisbury’s  State Road Restaurant (reservations are essential). You’ll find a creative menu filled with local organic produce and served in a rustic-chic dining room with rough-hewn high beamed ceiling, a beautiful stone fireplace, and a shingle-sided porch. If you’re here during the summer, mingle with the island’s artists, writers, poets, and musicians at the Martha’s Vineyard Summer Concert Series  at the Old Whaling Church in Edgartown. Depending on your mood, cap the night with a drink at the island’s legendary watering hole/dive bar and rock club,  the Ritz Café , or at the more quirky cocktail lounge at  the Cardboard Box .

You may have noticed that there are no chain stores or restaurants on the island, which means that every mealtime, coffee, and snack hankering is an opportunity—nay, an excuse—to support a local purveyor and experience local deliciousness. Acknowledge Sunday morning on Martha’s Vineyard in all its glory with sugar-and-cinnamon dusted, fresh-from-the-oven donuts and fritters from Back Door Donuts . Pick up a gourmet coffee to go at  Mocha Motts  and take a morning stroll in the most charming neighborhood in all of New England. The 34 acres of dollhouse-like Gingerbread Cottages at  Oak Bluffs Campground are a wonder to wander. The more than 300 candy-colored Carpenter Gothic Victorian cottages with wedding trim were built in the 1860s and ’70s to replace tents on the site used to accommodate the groups of New England Methodists who gathered for retreats here. In summer, you can take guided tours and enjoy art shows, sing-alongs, and other performances. Be sure to visit the Cottage Museum to learn more about this National Historic Landmark.

If you are renting a property for the weekend, make your last day here special with a lunch delivery of a full clambake from  The Kitchen Porch . If not,  The Net Result  fish market offers individual clambakes, steamed lobsters, and fried oyster plates that you can take to the beach for lunch; be sure to pick up some cold  Bad Martha local brews to seal the experience. If the weather isn’t cooperating, stop at Raw 19 Oyster Bar  for their “shucking amazing” oysters along with other New England classics like clam chowder, smoked bluefish, and lobster.

After lunch, wander in and out of the cute shops in Edgartown’s historic downtown area. Then, keep the history-appreciation going with a little background in the island’s maritime past at the excellent Martha’s  Vineyard Museum . Hop on a bike for one last taste of island life and bike to  Edgartown Lighthouse  (about 40 minutes) and Lighthouse Beach. Martha’s Vineyard has its share of lighthouses, but this one merits a visit for its stunning views and surroundings. Swing by  Mad Martha’s  ice cream for an ice cream sandwich made with homemade cookies or a Snickers ice cream before you make your way back to pack up your bags.

INSIDER TIP You must have a reservation for the ferry if you are planning to bring your car to Martha’s Vineyard. Summer weekend car reservations sell out early in the year. Book your ticket as early as possible online at Steamship Authority. If reservations on the car ferry are hard to score in summer, rent a car on island.

Where to stay.

There are no chain hotels on Martha’s Vineyard, so all lodging options offer an authentic island experience. There are also plentiful rental opportunities and cute cottages to rent, although it can be hard to rent for a weekend in summer when most rentals are snapped up for extended stays. Stay Down-Island if you want to be close to nightlife and restaurants, and Up-Island if you want the opposite. The charming and luxurious Hob Knob  boutique hotel and spa in Edgartown is close to the summer scene but far enough away to be peaceful. The hotel provides guests with beach cruiser bikes, gourmet picnic lunches, beach chairs, and umbrellas. The elegant  Harbor View Hotel  has one of the most iconic views on the Vineyard (enjoy Edgartown Lighthouse views from the expansive wraparound porch) and is just a 10-minute walk from Edgartown’s historic mansions. The  Beach Plum Inn  in rural Chilmark is located on seven acres of land overlooking Menemsha Harbor.

Peak season begins on Memorial Day weekend and ends on Labor Day weekend. There is a reason the island is so busy in summer: the weather is perfect (warm but rarely uncomfortably hot); the water is less frigid (but rarely comfortably warm), and the weather is ideal for hiking, biking, beaching, and sailing. If you’re planning to stay overnight on a summer weekend, be sure to make reservations well in advance; spring (as in,  last  spring) is not too early. Avoid July Fourth and Labor Day weekends as they are the busiest and most expensive weekends on the island. Things stay busy for September and October weekends, a favorite time for weddings, but begin to slow down soon thereafter. Inns and hotels offer discounted rates in the spring, fall, and winter months, and many island restaurants, shops, and bars are open year-round.

Excited for our new series on weekend road trips! Get ready to be inspired as we ease back into travel. 🚗✨ #WeekendGetaways #TravelInspiration

Boston vs New York City: Which Is Better?

Here is a deeper look at living in Boston vs NYC, and what each city is best at. 

hash-mark Table of Contents

Cost of Living Weather Public Transportation Job Opportunities Cuisine and Lifestyle Crime Rates City Culture Commute Times Quality of Life Index Living in Boston vs NYC Bottom Line New York vs. Boston Comparison Winner

hash-mark Cost of Living

New York City is more expensive than Boston by a fair deal. NYC ranks the most expensive city in the US, while Boston is fourth (San Francisco and Honolulu are 2 and 3). The cost of living in New York is 129% higher than the national average, whereas it’s only about 48% higher in Boston. Additionally, taxes are higher in New York due to the NYC income tax . 

The cost of housing, groceries, and transportation are all much higher in NYC than in Boston. But surprisingly, Boston is more expensive than New York when it comes to the cost of healthcare and utilities. 

hash-mark Weather

Being two coastal cities in the Northeast, Boston and New York both have a similar climate. However, New York tends to have slightly warmer winters because it’s farther south. They both feature a pleasant fall and spring punctuated by cold winters and blistering summers. But the summers in both places tend to be comparable, while Boston experiences colder winters with more snowfall. The average low point for a night in January in NYC is 26 degrees Fahrenheit, while in Boston, the average low point for the same month is 19F. Boston also averages about 48 inches of snowfall per year, while New York averages around 25 inches.

hash-mark Public Transportation

NYC has one of the best public transportation systems in the country. It’s the only transit system in the world that runs 24/7, and it can get you almost anywhere in the city for one flat rate. Boston’s public transportation system is also fast and efficient with a solid mix of buses, subways (also called the T), commuter rails, and ferries. But Boston is a much more sprawling city, making it challenging to get across town. Plus, most Boston trains stop running by 1 am and don’t start up again until 5 am.

hash-mark Job Opportunities

New York also has Boston beat in terms of job opportunities. New York offers a diverse job market fueled by financial services, healthcare, retail, technology, and education. Boston’s economy is more tightly focused on healthcare, finance, and higher education. New York is the land of opportunity. Although the job market is competitive, you can find a high-level position doing almost anything if you have the requisite skill set. While Boston also offers a variety of high-paying positions for job seekers, it doesn’t offer as much variation or the sheer volume of opportunity as New York.

hash-mark Cuisine and Lifestyle 

New York is the clear winner when it comes to cuisine. While you can certainly find plenty of unique local restaurants in Boston, New York has a culinary scene that is world-famous and some of the best restaurants in the world are located in the Big Apple. Plus, you can find spectacular dishes from all across the world in New York. Boston offers a more laidback, family-oriented lifestyle that is attractive to many residents. New York, in comparison, is much more work-oriented and offers round-the-clock entertainment that ranges from nightclubs to karaoke bars and everything in between. So, NYC certainly provides more action and excitement, but it definitely isn’t for everyone.  

hash-mark Crime Rates

Both places are considered quite safe for large cities, however, Boston tends to feature a slightly higher crime rate. According to an index created by Best Places, Boston scored 37.3 out of 100 for violent crime and 35.8 for property crime. New York, in comparison, scored 28.2 for violent crime and 24.9 for property crime. The national average is 22.7 for violent crime and 35.4 for property crime. While both are considered safe, walkable cities, they are still major urban areas. But the NYPD is one of the most well-funded police forces in the country, which helps keep crime to a minimum across categories.  

hash-mark City Culture

Both have a distinct culture that will attract a slightly different demographic. New York is the city that never sleeps and is well known for its work hard, play hard attitude, which often includes long work weeks and action-packed weekends. Boston has a more collegiate atmosphere, with several top universities based in the city. It still features a popular bar scene but doesn’t have quite the same energy as New York. NYC is great for those who want excitement, diversity, and the ability to climb the corporate ladder. In contrast, Boston is better for those who want big-city amenities but not quite as much round-the-clock action as New York.

hash-mark Commute Times

Boston tends to feature slightly more favorable commute times. On average, the commute time for a Boston resident is 10% shorter than for a New Yorker. The average commuter in New York takes about 41 minutes to get to work, whereas the average commuter in Boston takes about 30 minutes. New York City features far more traffic congestion than Boston (although not by much), so most commuters take mass transit to work. Boston features a mix of drivers, walkers, and mass transit riders. But, 19% more workers in New York work from home compared to Boston.  

hash-mark Quality of Life Index

According to the index created by Numbeo, Boston has a higher quality of life score. This scale takes into account crime statistics, healthcare quality, climate, cost of living, property prices relative to income, and the amount of traffic and pollution. Boston scored 175.95 on this scale, which is considered very high. New York, in comparison, scored 138.9, which is considered moderate. The biggest factor impacting the quality of life in New York is the housing prices relative to the average income.

hash-mark Living in Boston vs NYC Bottom Line

Both cities have a lot to offer residents in terms of culture and opportunity, but New York has Boston beat in many important categories. It offers more cultural attractions, employment opportunities, and an energy that is hard to match. But it’s also more expensive and crowded than Boston. Boston may be better suited for those who want a more relaxed lifestyle as it offers many of the benefits of New York without some of the negatives. But when it comes to action and excitement, New York is the clear winner. 

hash-mark New York vs. Boston Comparison Winner

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Boston vs. New York | (2024) Which City is Better? [Tips & Data]

Last Updated on: 25th March 2024, 08:24 am

Planning to make a move to the Eastern seaboard? New York and Boston are two of the largest cities on the east coast and they’re both part of the Northeast megalopolis or the Boston-Washington corridor. Making the decision about whether you want to live in Boston or New York can definitely be a challenge as both have so much to offer, including excellent public transit, a diverse economy, and endless cultural activities.

To help you make your decision about moving to Boston vs. New York , here’s how they stack up against each other.

We’ll cover everything from the cost of living in Boston vs. New York to other important information like comparative crime rates and population so you can make an informed decision about your new home.

Table of Contents

Pros & Cons of Living in Boston vs. New York

What better way to decide which city is right for you than comparing the benefits of living in Boston with the advantages of New York. Both have strengths and weaknesses. Here’s how Boston versus New York compare.

Living in Boston Pros

Rich history of boston.

One of the best benefits of moving to Boston? You can’t beat Boston’s rich history as America’s oldest city. Its historic charm and character can be seen everywhere, from the country’s oldest public school and subway system to the cobblestone streets and historic sites on the Freedom Trail. Unlike New York, where newness is valued, Boston has preserved its heritage with old and new co-mingling at every turn.

The perfect example is the Granary Burying Ground , founded in 1660 and sitting in the heart of downtown, where it’s penned in on three sides by tall buildings and across from bustling bars.

Boston’s Walkable Downtown

Boston is truly a city made for a stroll. You’ll have no trouble exploring all of downtown and walking from Beacon Hill to the Boston Common and South End — or even across the river to Cambridge. Boston is one of the nation’s most bikeable and walkable urban areas thanks to its age and condensed downtown. When it comes to Boston versus New York, you’ll find it’s much easier to get around Boston on foot.

Higher Education

No comparison of Boston vs. New York is complete without touching on higher education opportunities. Boston’s Cambridge suburb is home to two of the most prestigious institutions in the United States: Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). If that’s not enough, Boston is home to a total of 35 colleges, community colleges, and universities with one-third of the entire state’s college enrollment and just 10% of the population. New York, by comparison, doesn’t have much to offer in terms of prestige.

Beautiful Boston Neighborhoods

Boston is home to 23 unique neighborhoods, each with something fun to discover. While New York offers a heavily urban environment, one of the pros of living in Boston is you’re still surrounded by nature with the fall leaves, picturesque Charles River, and cobblestone walkways. Boston boasts more playgrounds and public parks per capita than any other city and it was designed with an “Emerald Necklace” of green space surrounding the city . That means every neighborhood boasts outdoor opportunities.

Endless Things to Do in Boston

Whether you love attending musical performances, taking in history, sightseeing, activities, or exploring the outdoors, Boston is an exciting hub full of attractions and fun events. One of the advantages of living in Boston is you’ll never be bored! This cultural hub is home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, and the Huntington Theater Company, just a few organizations that have earned the city a spot as one of the Top 20 Arts Vibrant Cities . Spend time enjoying family-friendly activities like the New England Museum, relax on the grass at Boston Common, or go rowing on the Charles River.

Living in Boston Cons

High cost of living in boston.

While we’ll explore the cost of living in Boston versus New York shortly, the high cost of the city is definitely a drawback to living in Boston. While Boston has excellent education, it comes at a cost.

It’s Difficult to Find a Boston Rental

When comparing Boston vs. New York, the two share something in common: a congested and difficult-to-navigate rental market. In Boston, you may need to use a real estate agent to find a rental which means paying an extra fee. Most rentals are owner-occupied two- and three-unit homes, not apartment buildings, so you’ll probably have a private landlord.

Living in New York Pros

New York’s 24-Hour Lifestyle

If there’s one area where New York comes out ahead in a showdown of Boston versus New York, it’s the nightlife and 24-hour lifestyle you can enjoy in New York. NYC truly never sleeps with bars that stay open until 4am, late-night eats, nightclubs, and excitement around every corner.

NYC’s International Cuisine

Boston has baked beans, clam chowder, and some of the best lobster bisque you’ll ever taste, but New York definitely has the variety. One of the advantages of living in New York is the city is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines from around the world. New York’s also home to a dozen iconic foods like New York-style pizza, cheesecake, pastrami, bagels, and more. People from around the world visit NY Deli’s like Katz’s Delicatessen .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 🌭Katz’s Delicatessen (@katzsdeli) on Nov 26, 2019 at 4:43pm PST

Living in New York Cons

New york’s fast-paced environment.

As the city that never sleeps, NYC can be hectic at times, especially if you want a more relaxed lifestyle. For some people, this isn’t a con to living in New York, but the constant hustle and bustle, noise, traffic, and crowds can wear you down.

Tiny Apartments in NYC

Enjoying the New York City lifestyle means getting used to a tiny living space . The average New York City studio apartment is just 550 square feet thanks to the high-demand market and sky-high rent which is one of the highest in the U.S. Demand is even rising for micro apartments with one new development featuring units between 265 and 360 square feet. When you compare Boston vs. New York, you’ll find Boston apartments are bigger than in most cities.

The Cost of Living in Boston vs. New York

Cost of living is probably high on your list when deciding whether to live in Boston vs. NYC. The two cities make the list of top 3 most expensive cities in the United States, but New York is more expensive. Here’s how the Boston vs. New York cost of living really looks according to Numbeo .

• Rent is 35% higher in New York versus Boston Restaurants are 20% higher in NYC than Boston Consumer prices are 17% higher in New York vs. Boston Groceries are 17% higher in New York than Boston

It takes $7,872 in New York to get the same standard of living in Boston with $6,300.

An often overlooked detail when comparing the cost of living in Boston versus New York is what you get for your rent money. While rent in Boston is definitely high, rental properties in Boston are larger than in most cities which means you get more bang for your buck. The average 1-bedroom apartment in Boston is 724 square feet and this increases to 1,024 square feet for a 2-bedroom. Note that many Boston rentals are multi-family homes, though, which aren’t included in these figures and tend to be much larger.

Additional Things to Consider Between Boston vs. New York

When comparing Boston vs. New York population, ask yourself, do you imagine living in a bustling metropolis or a city with a bit more space? New York City has a population that’s nearly 16x larger than the city of Boston but only twice as much space. New York is the country’s most densely populated city with 8.3 million people and a metro population of nearly 20 million. By comparison, the Boston population is about 694,000 and the Greater Boston area is home to 4.8 million people.

Crime Rate in Boston vs. New York

When choosing a new place to live, crime is probably a big concern. When comparing Boston vs. New York crime rates, you’ll find the two cities are fairly comparable in terms of violent crime and property crime. Of course, it all depends on where you live: Boston neighborhoods like South Boston and West Roxbury are considered very safe.

Boston vs. New York Climate

The Boston climate has a reputation for its bitter, cold winters, with chilly breezes blowing off the harbor. While winters can be challenging at first, you’ll find the rest of the year is as close to perfect as you could hope for. Summers are fairly mild and lack the heat and humidity of the southern cities outside of occasional heat spells in July and August. The difference between the Boston vs. New York climate mostly comes down to the winter ; otherwise, the cities are fairly comparable in terms of weather.

Boston vs. New York: Where Are You Moving?

Now that you have a better idea of what you can expect from these two major East Coast cities, where will you end up: Boston or New York? Both cities definitely have a lot to offer anyone, despite their high cost of living, but the decision will probably come down to your lifestyle.

If you’re leaning toward moving to Boston versus New York City, the Boston movers at Mass Bay Movers is here to help. Our professional movers are equipped to make your relocation a seamless and stress-free experience. Give us a call at 978-587-3775 to request a free moving estimate!

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From Boston to New York City: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Lavanya Sunkara and Freddy Sherman Updated May 11, 2023

Both historical and fascinating in their own ways, the cities of Boston and New York are connected by several methods of transportation. From direct flights to express trains and low-cost buses, you have your choice when it comes to traveling from Beantown to the Big Apple.

Fly down for a whirlwind day to grab a delicious dinner and a Broadway show, hit the highway in your car or the bus for an overnight stay to catch a Yankees game, or take a scenic train ride to explore the city's world-famous cultural institutions and attractions . New York City is 216 miles southwest of Boston, and it takes three-and-a-half to six hours to reach, depending on your preferred mode of transportation.

Regardless of the season, you can start planning your trip to New York City with our list of travel options. Once you arrive, join the locals on the subway and commuter trains to make your way around Manhattan and the other boroughs to enjoy all that the city has to offer, from diverse cuisines and happening neighborhoods to sensational entertainment.

Here are four of the best ways to get from Boston to New York City, along with insider advice on what to keep in mind with each option.

On This Page:

• From Boston to New York by Train
• From Boston to New York by Car
• From Boston to New York by Bus
• From Boston to New York by Plane

1. From Boston to New York by Train

Highlights: Experience the fun efficiency of rail travel, a great choice for winter months

Amtrak's Acela Express train is by far the most efficient and comfortable way to get to New York from Boston . Leaving from South Station downtown or Boston Back Bay Station, it will take around four hours to get to Manhattan's Penn Station. The Acela exclusively has Business and First Class cars, and it comes with free basic Wi-Fi connectivity and a café and quiet car. The seats have decent legroom, foldout tables for working/dining, and individual power outlets.

Prices depend on class and departure times. The First Class seat comes with early boarding, a complimentary at-seat meal, and beverages; travelers will also have access to the stations' lounges. For the most scenic views, sit on the left side of the car.

On weekdays, Acela trains depart hourly during rush hour. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for a somewhat longer (by 30 mins), but still pleasant, ride on the Amtrak Northeast Regional train, which also comes with free basic Wi-Fi. The first train of the day leaves at 5:05am, and the last train departs from Boston at 9:30pm (the only train where you can check luggage). Otherwise, you can use the overhead storage on the other trains.

Often, Amtrak offers AAA discounts, but train tickets tend to be on the higher end, even more than flights. When traveling during the winter months, train travel is the best option to avoid flight delays or poor road conditions due to snow and ice.

2. From Boston to New York by Car

Highlights: Offers freedom and flexibility, and accommodates kids and pets

Travelers can opt to drive from Boston to New York for more flexibility and if you are bringing pets. If you are leaving from downtown Boston, make your way to I-93 South towards I-90 (Mass Pike) and connect to I-84. Consider staying on I-84 to I-684 instead of using I-95 to avoid traffic.

Apps like Waze and Google Maps will give you the best possible route based on real-time conditions. Leave after rush hour for a quicker ride, but allow additional time on weekends and holidays. Driving time takes anywhere between four to six hours , depending on traffic and weather conditions. Keep in mind that New York City street parking can be difficult to find, and garage fees are high, including at hotels. A car isn't needed once you're in Manhattan, so consider taking the bus or train instead of driving.

You can rent a car from a company like Budget , Avis , Hertz , or Enterprise to make the drive to The Big Apple. Keep in mind if you are flying into Boston, renting a car at the airport can be more expensive than doing it in the city.

E-ZPass is a cashless toll payment system and device used by 19 different northeastern states, including Massachusetts and New York. If you have one, make sure you bring it, and if you don't have one, consider buying one before the trip. The device is used to pay road, bridge, and tunnel tolls.

In New York, drivers can use tollsbymailny.com to pay any tolls incurred within 48 hours, avoiding rental car surcharges. Most rental cars come with an E-ZPass unit, but review the potential charges and costs carefully before starting your trip.

3. From Boston to New York by Bus

Highlights: Least expensive, easy travel that even has some availability to bring your bike

The cheapest way to get from Boston to New York is by bus. Although bus travel takes longer than the train, you can travel between the cities for a fraction of the price. Greyhound has buses leaving Boston's South Station to New York's Port Authority Bus Terminal daily, with hourly buses during rush hour. The vehicles come equipped with reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilets. It takes anywhere from four-and-a-half to six hours to reach Manhattan , depending on traffic and the time of the week. Friday evenings often take the longest.

Megabus and FlixBus are two other options for those traveling from Boston by bus. Megabus offers reserved seating, toilets, and Wi-Fi, and drops off customers at 7th Avenue and 27th Street in Midtown Manhattan, within walking distance from Penn Station and many subway lines. FlixBus has over 10 buses per day running between the two cities. Their pickup stop is curbside in Boston's South End area, and drop-off is at 31st Street and 8th Avenue in Midtown, near Penn Station.

FlixBus is also a Greener way to travel from Boston to NYC. The buses emit less CO2 than a passenger car, and you can even buy carbon offset credits to make your journey carbon-neutral. The buses are also bike friendly if you want to bring yours.

4. From Boston to New York by Plane

Highlights: Find an in-expensive airline ticket and arrive fast and fresh

Flights between Boston and New York run frequently, and getting on a plane is the fastest option between the two cities. Although long security lines and transfers to and from the airports take time, the actual flying time is just 35 minutes . The best part is that airfares are typically cheaper than train tickets. Airlines like JetBlue , American , Delta , and United operate flights from Boston Logan (BOS) to New York's John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR) airports daily and have comparable fares.

If you are traveling to JFK, you can take the AirTrain and connect to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) or the subway in Queens to make your way to Manhattan or any other areas. LaGuardia Airport is just eight miles from midtown Manhattan; you can take the M60 bus from any of the terminals to 125th Street, connecting to the subway (free transfer) to your final destination.

From Newark International Airport (located 17 miles from Midtown), New Jersey Transit trains (referred to as the AirTrain) will bring you to Penn Station. For a private shuttle service from any of the NYC area airports, choose NYC Airporter or Go Airlink NYC (the official airport shuttle partner). Alternatively, you can take an Uber or Lyft ride to the heart of the city.

If you plan to pick up a rental car at EWR, you can take the AirTrain to P3, where most of the car rental companies are located. Payless , Sixt , Dollar , Thrifty , Alamo , and others are all at one central facility. At LGA, you need to take a free shuttle bus to the rental car center. Shuttles pick up at a specific area outside Terminal A.

At JFK, car rental companies have counters inside the terminal on the arrivals level near baggage claim. After receiving your keys, take the AirTrain to Federal Circle Station, where you pick up the car.

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New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022

Feel like taking a break from your busy schedule? Want to experience a short road trip? Read our detailed guide on New York and Boston road trip itinerary.

If you’re a local staying in New England, you might have already experienced the journey from New York to Boston. Our itinerary is curated for those who haven’t yet explored the gems located between these two iconic cities.

You can take a trip to Boston from New York within four hours in standard terms. But, honestly, what’s the fun in that?

There are numerous attractions, landmarks, and iconic experiences waiting to be witnessed by travelers like you. And with the help of our New York to Boston road trip , we make it possible to discover these unique locations gloriously.

So, if you’re in the United States and looking to venture off on a journey covering the East Coast, we present this New York and Boston road trip. This itinerary is meant to showcase New England’s adoring beauty in the best way possible.

Let’s get started!

Overview of New York to Boston Road Trip

The itinerary designed for this New York and Boston road trip is for 7 days. The total journey is around 330-miles, taking approximately 6hr 18minutes (an indicative number based on the time of writing). The route taken for this specific road trip is via I-95N, but you can take alternative ways depending on the traffic and travel time.

We wanted to create a simple yet adventurous journey covering central locations falling between New York and Boston. The idea was to connect these locations and make an epic short trip for travelers who only have a week’s vacation.

Any age group can take this New York and Boston road trip, as we have not included strenuous or challenging activities. Moreover, we have included only those particular stops or intervals which deem necessary to visit during your trip. This will surely elevate your experience of driving from NYC to Boston.

This New York to Boston road trip can be done in reverse order. Suppose you had to do – Boston to New York road trip – the same route given in our below map will apply. Alternatively, you can approach Interstate 90 West  from Boston to take the fastest way to NYC.

New York to Boston Road Trip Schedule

Day 1 : New York City Day 2 : New York City – New Haven Day 3 : New Haven – Essex, CT Day 4 : Essex – Newport, RI Day 5 : Newport – Cape Cod Day 6 : Cape Cod – Boston Day 7 : Boston (Departure)

Map of New York and Boston Itinerary

Check this New York to Boston drive map, detailing the exact route and locations. To get an interactive version of the below map, click here .

Detailed New York to Boston Road Trip

Day 1: new york city.

Let’s get started with our New York to Boston road trip by exploring the significant sights of NYC.

New York City is a playground for tourists to indulge in a whirlwind of activities . Famous for its incredible nightlife, cafes & restaurants, pub scenes, gastronomy, museums & art, and world-class theatre productions, New York boasts all of its attractions & activities to entice tourists worldwide.

What makes New York so unique is its varied experiences . You could spend an entire week in NYC visiting many of its landmarks & sights. Forget about a week; you could spend a whole day in Central Park itself, relaxing & unwinding around its gardens, lakes, and carousel.

With so much to see and do around , it’s overwhelming for a first-time traveller to explore New York City. Since we are on our road trip to Boston, we won’t be spending much time in the city. We recommend choosing one neighbourhood out of Soho, Midtown East, Theatre District, and Lower Manhattan to explore.

Below we have recommended a few places within the Lower Manhattan region . Check this page to see what NYC’s other neighbourhoods have in store.

Visit the Times Square

Times Square is not only the famous landmark of New York but also the liveliest area of all neighbourhoods. When you visit Times Square, it’ll always be packed with tourists, especially during the holiday season.

What makes Times Square so unique is its atmosphere. The streets are illuminated with giant billboards, Broadway theatres, fantastic coffee shops, and a large chain of restaurants. Moreover, a walk around the street across Times Square will introduce you to a paradisical world of fashion stores & boutiques.

The High Line

The High Line is known to provide some of NYC’s best surrounding views. It’s an elevated park that starts from  Hudson Yards  and stretches up to the northern edge of  Chelsea .

You can stroll the entire pathway starting from one end to the other, exploring wildflowers, greenery, and outdoor art installations in addition to the views.

Note : The High Line can get overcrowded on a bright sunny day, and it isn’t a pleasant experience, especially if you’re planning to walk along the park. To avoid them, try arriving early in the morning.

Take a Ferry to the Statue of Liberty

Undoubtedly, the Statue of Liberty is America’s most famous landmark. The place is listed on every NYC tourist itinerary, and thus we thought of including it in our New York to Boston road trip.

To tour the Statue of Liberty, we recommend taking the Staten Island ferry to Liberty Island . The Ferry leaves from the  Whitehall Terminal  and reaches the other point, i.e.,  St. George Terminal . It approx takes 25-minutes for each way ride.

Optional Tours in New York City

If time permits, we recommend choosing a few attractions out of the below list. You can either do a self-exploration of these places or book guided tours to manage your schedule well.

• Battery Park
• Marvel at Oculus
• Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• Explore the Trinity Church
• Visit the One World Trade Centre

Day 2: New York City – New Haven

Today we leave New York City and make our way to New Haven county.

New Haven is one of the most under-rated stops in New England , and it doesn’t get mentioned in most New York to Boston road trips, but it still is a worth exploring place.

New Haven boasts a fantastic dining scene here and numerous historical touchpoints. Tons of music shows, concerts, and events level up New Haven’s cultural essence every year. In addition to positive experiences, there are many sight-seeing points too – which you should visit during your trip to Boston .

Check the below-recommended activities which you can explore in New Haven –

Yale University

Yale University has been a pride of New Haven county, and it’s not only an essential landmark from a historical standpoint but also the most visited place in New Haven . During your stop, you can opt to take a guided tour of the university to learn more about its campus and history.

Most of the sections and pillars were built by well-known architects in the form of gothic architecture. Many of its rooms, halls, & libraries hold the same design – making it enjoyable to tour the university. Other places to see within the campus include the Center for British Art, the Art Gallery, the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, and the Peabody Museum.

You can also enjoy the complimentary morning tours led by campus students.

Connecticut Science Center

If you’re a fan of science exhibits, head to Connecticut Science Centre to explore 150+ displays of practical projects. These collections are mainly on the topics of science, covering space, biology, and other scientific discovery. The idea of this establishment is to engage children to proactively learn, inspire and develop their brainwork in these related fields.

Moreover, even parents find it interesting to engage in many of its live activities hosted within the center. The Science Alley and an Engineering Lab are its two most important spaces, showcasing live demonstrations of complex world problems.

So if you’re on a road trip to Boston with kids, the Connecticut Science Centre is undoubtedly the right place to stop by.

Experience the Summer Jazz Festival

New Haven sets up different venues featuring musical shows and concerts throughout the summer. This is meant to celebrate the diversity of jazz music and culture in the county.

So if you’re in town and come across any of these venues – make sure to attend one. Most institutions like the Neighborhood Music School, the New Haven Museum, and the Pardee-Morris House host jazz concerts around New Haven. Café Nine and Café a Vin also host popular shows for a limited time.

You can check the dates here for upcoming events.

Other than the experiences listed above, there’s a lot to do around New Haven county. As we mentioned before, the town is known to provide excellent gastronomy scenes to its visitors. Back in 2014, it was coined the “Best Foodie City in the US.” This award lets you explore different restaurants, cafes, and pubs in New Haven.

Overnight stay at New Haven.

Day 3: Essex, CT

The next stop on our New York to Boston road trip is the Essex.

The quaint town of Essex is only a 45-minute drive away from New Haven. Before arriving directly in Essex, there are multiple points along the Connecticut Coast to admire. Hence, ensure that you leave early in the morning to spend some time at each suggested location.

The first place to stop by is Norwalk. Known for its historic oyster industry, the place has special ties with its harbors and islands located offshore. It’s a great place for New Yorkers, who often hit Norwalk during the summers to take a cruise or boat ride.

When you arrive in Norwalk, take a small boat trip to the nearby Sheffield Island lighthouse. It will approx take you 45-minutes to get past the tiny islands located near Norwalk. The experts on the boat will brief you on the surrounding attractions located off the Long Island Sound. After you reach Sheffield Island, visit the Sheffield Lighthouse, established in 1868, or you can spend time strolling, picnicking, or exploring its walking trails.

Alternatively, you can explore the below two attractions of Norwalk – 

The Maritime Aquarium

The Maritime Aquarium is one of Norwalk’s most essential attractions. It houses more than 2,700 aquatic species spread across 75 different marine life exhibits. As you journey through the entire center, you’ll come across harbor seals, river otters, baby sharks, turtles, and jellyfish.

This aquarium has touch tanks that bank other marine life, including stingrays, starfish, and nurse sharks. Moreover, the place also has an IMAX theatre to offer visitors a visual display of marine life in action. With the surround sound and other lighting effects, the experience of watching these aquatic species is theatrical.

SoNo (South Norwalk) is the place to experience the vibrant neighborhood, arts, culture, shopping, and entertainment. The locals here are energetic as ever, guiding you to the location’s best-hidden spots and attractions.

The culinary scene in South Norwalk is incredible. With eateries and street stalls serving different cuisines, you can hog onto items that you may have never tried in life. When you’re in this neighborhood, it doesn’t matter what food preference you have – you ought to come across shops selling different items, including fish tacos, baklava, grilled cheeseburgers, sandwiches, sushi, and clam chowder.

After a brief exploration of Norwalk and its attractions, head to the town of Essex to spend a night. If time permits and your schedule fits right, you can always spend an extra day at Essex to explore its unique tourist spots. These include taking a ride on Essex Steam Train, cruising on the Connecticut River, exploring Gillette Castle, and many more sights.

Overnight at Essex.

Day 4: Newport, RI

Today, we depart early morning to make our way toward Newport, RI.

Newport seems like a different world altogether, and it’s a place where you can easily spend a long weekend discovering essential landmarks and historic sites. Of course, we can’t cover everything in this New York and Boston road trip – but we’ve suggested a few attractions that you should check out during your drive to Newport.

The Ocean Drive

With all the journey you’ve done so far to reach Newport, nothing can beat the experience of driving the 10-mile Ocean Drive stretch. No matter how many times you visit this place, the downright beauty of the coastal road will never fail to amaze you.

Once you reach Newport, unwind down at a cafe and grab some breakfast to rejuvenate yourself. After you’re settled in, start your Ocean Drive journey off the historic Bellevue Avenu (see the location here ). Head straight and keep following the signs for Ocean Drive.

You’ll be greeted with Newport’s notable landmarks, including Fort Adams State Park, the Museum of Yachting, Sail Newport , and the Castle Hill Inn & Resort . The best part about the entire journey is seeing many beautiful homes, summer yachts, waterfront cafes, and spectacular views.

Further towards the south, you’ll locate  Brenton Point, State Park . There’s free parking here, so you can park your car and enjoy the stunning ocean views for as long as you can.

As you continue your drive past Brenton Park, you’ll get the best close-up views of the Atlantic Ocean. Many private exclusive beaches, Hazard’s and Bailey’s , are not open to the public. But, you can unwind at Gooseberry beach to claim fantastic sunset views.

Discover Newport’s Mansions

The historic mansions located in Newport showcase a breath-taking charm of history, wealth, and architecture. Many of the grand villas belong to America’s most influential men and women. These mansions are their “summer cottages,” which get opened for guided tours to the public.

There are many mansions based in Newport, but these are the ones you should check out during your exploration –

• Marble House
• The Breakers
• Rough Point
• Chateau-sur-Mer

The Breakers and the Elms have the most impressive structure, and it’s also the busiest mansions of all – especially during the summers. These two mansions are open during the winter months to keep up with tours. Tickets will have to be purchased in advance to avoid full occupancy. To check the calendar of these mansions, visit this page .

To get more details on Newport’s mansions & guided tours, explore this website .

Overnight at Newport.

Day 5: Newport – Cape Cod

It’s finally time to leave Newport to make our way to Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Cape Cod is a popular summertime destination for tourists. With an expansive coastline of 40-miles, the place has become New England’s prime beach location. It has everything you need – from quaint villages and seafood shacks to ocean viewpoints and abandoned lighthouses.

While you’re here, Cape Cod will introduce you to endless touristic opportunities. While the whale watching tour steals the limelight, its long bike rides and theatrical music show add even more thrill to your perfect stay in Cape Cod.

We are sticking to a single overnight stay in Cape Cod for our New York to Boston road trip. However, feel free to extend your stay to discover more attractions & local experiences.

Below are some of the recommended activities to do in Cape Cod – 

Cape Cod Rail Trail

When you only have a single night’s stay at Cape Cod, you should make it a point to discover the Cape Cod Rail Trail. The trail is approx 27-miles long, making it entirely possible to cover the stretch in a day. The flat surface makes it easy for all grade-level bikers to ride across the trail. Every summer, many recreational cyclists arrive here to take on the adventure.

Since Cape Cod is one of the best bike trails in New England, there’s no shortage of restaurants housing the entire pathway. The Yarmouth-South Dennis section, in particular, has a great lineup of classic restaurants and cafes serving multi-cuisine food. Love home-made Italian food? Head to  Gerardi’s Cafe  located in South Yarmouth. Craving for continental and seafood? Make your way to  Jason’s Tavern  at South Dennis. There are plenty more along the trail, which you can find here.

Note:  There are currently two rental bike shops in Cape Cod. One is  Brewster Bike , where you can rent or purchase hybrid trek bikes; the other is the  Rail Trail Bike & Kayak Shop , located on the Cape Cod Rail Trail itself. You can rent all biking-related accessories, equipment, and items.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Late in the afternoon, head to the eastern shore of Cape Cod to explore fantastic beaches, protective wildlife, and unique hiking trails. The vast 40-mile stretch features New England’s prime beaches, including Marconi Beach, Nauset Beach, and Herring Cove beach.

You can even stop by the visitors center to learn more about the region’s protective area and its shoreline history.

Wellfleet Drive-In

If you’re wondering how to spend your late evening at Cape Cod, then fret not – head to Wellfleet Drive-In to take a break from all the hustle you’ve been doing so far. With a playground next to the driving lot and a mini-golf course – Wellfleet Drive-In is a perfect family spot to relax, unwind and re-energize.

Moreover, the retro theatre experience is genuinely nostalgic. Your kids might not get the importance of this vibe; however, for you (parents), this is something you can’t miss.

Note:  Tickets for adults and kids cost $15 and $10 , respectively. Credit cards are not accepted here, so ensure you have some cash in hand. Furthermore, try to arrive at the box office around 7 pm to get a good seating spot.

Overnight at Cape Cod.

Day 6: Cape Cod – Boston

It’s time to finally hit the last stop of the New York and Boston road trip. We recommend you leave early in the morning to make sure you have ample time to relax in Boston.

Boston thrives on art, culture, history, and nightlife. There’s so much to do in the city that you can spare a separate itinerary for Boston. It’s also one of the significant locations in the history of the United States. It is where Boston Tea Party took place, which revolutionized the history of America.

But, there’s more to Boston than digging deeper into its history. Its vibrancy spreads across the city, indulging tourists in engaging in activities and events. The cutting-edge restaurants, unique performances, harbor cruise, and endless shopping opportunities make Boston a must-visit place in the United States.

We recommend the below activities to do in Boston – 

The Freedom Trail

Undoubtedly, the Freedom Trail is one of Boston’s prime tourist spots. It’s a 2.5-mile-long stretch that takes you across 16 historic sites in Boston. They are well interconnected, making you traverse between each of these attractions smoothly.

Start your Freedom Trail exploration at the Boston Common Visitor Information Center and continue down the path to visit King’s Chapel, Old State House, Massachusetts State House, Faneuil Hall, Old Corner Bookstore, Park Street Church , and Old North Church . For a detailed list, visit this page .

There are cute cafes, shops, museums, graveyards to discover, and these big names. If you ever feel tired or need a break, you can always stop for a coffee break. Moreover, the Freedom Trail is an excellent way to start your trip to Boston, and it’s instead a brief-exploration tour of famous attractions.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

When you visit museums, you often appreciate the artwork & displays stored inside. But the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum will change your mindset on how you look at museums. The building is just as beautiful as the artwork stored inside.

Isabella Stewart Gardner was an admirer of the art, and through her inspiration, she created this fabulous museum we see in Boston today. The whole place looks filled with gardens and small trees lined with patios, textiles, and archways. If you’re a collector of rare books, you’ll love discovering the old books preserved here.

Even if you’re not an admirer of the art, you’ll be fascinated with what’s stored inside the Isabella museum.

Relax at Boston Common

The city of Boston has its own Central Park in the form of Bostom Common . It’s one of the oldest public parks in America, housing all sorts of recreational activities & events.

It doesn’t matter in which season you travel, as Boston Common gives different experiences year-round. During winters, you can ice-skate on frog ponds, go sledding or snowboarding, while during summers, you can work out your body on tennis or basketball courts.

No matter what, it’s a perfect family place to stroll, picnic, and relax.

Visit the Boston Harbor

Boston Harbor carries a historical significance in the events in America’s history. While history remains intact, modern urbanization has brought a lively cultural essence to the place. Today, the Boston Harbor houses numerous museums, shipyards, landmarks, restaurants & cafes.

Furthermore, elevate your experience by taking a boat ride to the islands of Massachusetts . If not, pedal down the streets on a bike to tour galleries, shops, and quirky stalls selling unique souvenirs.

Optional Activities in Boston

If time permits, you can visit Encore, Boston’s mega-casino resort. This massive 210,000-sqft space includes 15+ restaurants, indoor & outdoor events, and plenty more. You can either go big, try your luck at the casino, or indulge in activities to admire the indoor beauty of Encore.

One of the fun things to do in Boston is go whale-watching. The surrounding waters of the harbor area make it ideal for spotting whales in their natural habitat. You can check these wonderful guided tours for more details.

Watch a game at Fenway Park. If you’re a baseball fan, surely make it a point to visit the Fenway Park stadium. It is known for its limited seating, precisely the same in 1912. Yes, it never got expanded, and it still offers the best close-up views of your favorite pitchers and batters.

Overnight in Boston.

Day 7: Boston

We are making the end of our epic New York to Boston road trip. You can further extend this road trip to other places beyond Boston or make modifications to adjust a couple of nights listed in this itinerary.

General FAQs for New York to Boston Road Trip

When is the best time to visit New York and Boston? New York is instead the busiest place than Boston. Since these cities are year-round destinations, tourist places and landmarks are always at their peak. However, to ensure you have a pleasant experience, we recommend making a journey between April to June or September to November. Both the periods will offer mild temperatures and slightly thinner crowds.

How far is New York City to Boston? If you were to travel from New York to Boston directly, it would approx take 3hr 45minutes (215 miles). Considering heavy traffic, the journey can take between 4.5 and 5 hours. However, regarding our New York to Boston road trip, we are stopping at multiple places/stops, covering an entire journey of 6hr 18minutes (330 miles).

What is the best route from NYC to Boston? The most direct route to travel from NYC to Boston is  Connecticut on I-84 E  to  I-90 E in Massachusetts . The road passes through the busy towns of New Haven and Connecticut, making it difficult during rush hours.

What are the other alternative sights to explore on our New York and Boston road trip? Check this page to explore optional tours and activities for our New York to Boston road trip. The catalogue of guided tours will help you select the best exercises for this road trip.

Where to stay in New York and Boston? To explore accommodation in New York and Boston, we recommend checking Tripadvisor . They provide the best listings at affordable rates (depending on the category).

Further Readings & Resources

New York City – 20 Free Things to Do in NYC: Discover the Best of New York New York in Winter – 10 Best Things to Do In NYC at Christmas Long Island, NY – Best Things to Do On Long Island in the Winter

Other American Itineraries

California – 10 Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary Alaska – 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip Yellowstone – Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone

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Day Trip From NYC to Boston | How to Get There

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | Day Trip From NYC to Boston | How to Get There

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While visiting the Big Apple, I recommend you check out one of the best near cities to New York , in New England: Boston . Visiting historic Boston from NYC is one of the best road trips from New York City since Boston is full of art, food, culture, and much more.

Boston has a sophisticated atmosphere thanks to its reputable museums, historic Freedom Trail, and stately landmarks. Among the urban squares and academic buildings, you’ll also find a beautiful waterfront, one of the oldest public gardens in the U.S., and amazing food, what makes Bostonone of the best food cities in the US . So, if you have the time to visit this city, don’t miss out!

Traveling from New York to Boston is quite easy, and there are several ways to move between the two cities. We’ve used FlixBus several times, and it’s one of the most comfortable buses from New York to Boston , although you can also ride a train, drive yourself, or take a guided tour.

To help you plan your day trip from NYC to Boston , I’m sharing a complete guide on how to get there and what to do during your trip.

Guide to the best day trip from NYC to Boston

If you want to take a Boston day trip from NYC , I’ve got all the information you need to plan the best itinerary. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to get from NYC to Boston , what to see during your trip, and how much you can expect to spend on transportation.

In a nutshell, this guide will cover:

How far is Boston from New York City?

Best day trip to Boston from NYC

What to see on your New York to Boston day trip

The distance between Boston and New York City is about 215 miles. So, if you want to drive from NYC to Boston , it’ll take around 4.5 hours .

Best way to get from NYC to Boston

One of the most important things to consider for your trip is how you’ll get there. Fortunately, there are several ways to get to Boston from NYC , so whether you want to drive yourself or take public transportation, you’ll have no problems.

Keep reading to see the best ways to travel from NYC to Boston :

Trains from NYC to Boston

• Buses from New York Boston
• Driving from New York to Boston

Taking a train from NYC to Boston is the fastest way to go, so it’s a good option if you only have one day to travel. Amtrak runs several trains from Manhattan’s Penn Station to Boston’s Back Bay Station.

Amtrak’s Northeast Regional service takes about 4.5 hours and costs around $124 round-trip. For express service, take the Amtrak Acela train, which takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes. Acela tickets start at $214 round-trip .

Buses from NYC to Boston

If you’re looking for a cheaper way to get to Boston from New York , I recommend taking a bus. There are several reputable bus companies that run daily buses between the two cities.

We’ve taken FlixBus before, and I think it’s one of the best buses from New York to Boston . The buses are comfortable and have extra legroom, free Wi-Fi, and restrooms. FlixBus also offsets their emissions, so it’s the most eco-friendly option.

FlixBus departs from 31 st Street and 8 th Avenue in Manhattan and the trip takes about 4.5 hours. The bus will drop you off at Boston’s South Station Bus Terminal. Tickets cost about $57 round-trip, and you can save $11 by using our Omio discount link.

Megabus is another popular bus company with several daily buses. Seats fill up fast, so you’ll want to book as soon as possible. Taking Megabus from New York to Boston takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes, departing from 34 th Street in Manhattan and dropping you off at Boston’s South Station Bus Terminal. Tickets cost around $30 round-trip.

Greyhound buses leave from the New York Port Authority station and take about 4.5 hours to get to the South Station Transportation Center in Boston. Greyhound’s New York to Boston service costs about $45 round-trip.

Finally, Peter Pan is a well-known company with a solid reputation. Buses leave from New York’s Port Authority and can drop you off at several Boston landmarks, including Copley Square and the State House. Taking Peter Pan from New York to Boston takes 4 hours and 20 minutes and tickets cost around $37 round-trip.

Keep in mind that, the sooner you book a bus from NYC to Boston , the cheaper the price will be .

Driving from NYC to Boston

If you prefer the comfort of your own car, you can drive from New York to Boston . This way, you can travel on your schedule and have more privacy during the trip. The NYC to Boston drive time is a little over five hours, so it’s nice to have the comfort of your own car.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a vehicle because you can rent a car in NYC. Depending on the option you choose, you can rent the car and drop it off in Boston, or you can rent it for the entire round trip .

Yet another option is this full-day tour , which I recommend if you don’t want to worry about organizing your transportation or itinerary. This Boston day trip from NYC includes your transportation and a professional guide, so it’s the most convenient choice.

The tour leaves from Manhattan at 6 a.m. and will transport your group to Boston in a comfortable air-conditioned bus. Along the way, your professional guide will share interesting facts and history about Boston.

Once you arrive, your first stop will be Copley Square , a picturesque plaza with several famous landmarks like Trinity Church and the Beaux-Arts style Fairmont Copley Hotel . You’ll also see the Boston Public Library , and John Hancock Tower , a 790-foot skyscraper.

Another highlight of this New York to Boston day tour is the Freedom Trail , a 2.5-mile brick path through downtown. The trail goes past 16 landmarks and historic locations like the Old State House , the Granary Burying Ground , King’s Chapel , Faneuil Hall , and the Massachusetts State House .

Then, head to the historic Quincy Market for lunch, where you’ll find all kinds of international foods. Afterward, walk through the Johnston Gate at Harvard University and see the Old Yard and the John Harvard Statue before returning to Manhattan.

Visiting Boston is one of the best day trips from NYC , so if you’re short on time, I highly recommend this 1-day Boston tour from New York .

Once your transportation is all set up, it’s time to plan your New York to Boston itinerary . There is so much to see in this beautiful city, but there are a few highlights I’d definitely recommend.

First, Boston is full of history, so you must check out the Freedom Trail , which runs past 16 important landmarks like state buildings, churches, and burial grounds. While you’re in the area, check out the Boston Harbor , where you can take a cruise or stroll along the Harborwalk.

I also recommend stopping by Quincy Market for a bite to eat before walking through the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway . You’ll pass the Boston Common , the oldest public park in the country and the home of the Boston Public Garden . This 24-acre garden has native and non-native plants, trees, and shrubs, as well as a pond with rental boats.

South of the Boston Common, you’ll find Copley Square , an urban plaza full of historic buildings and landmarks. Not far from here, you can visit the Prudential Tower , a 920-foot skyscraper with an observatory on the 50 th floor.

If you’re a sports fan, you’ll like seeing Fenway Park where the Boston Red Sox plays. Or you can cross the Charles River and visit Harvard University ’s campus. There are several interesting museums here, including the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Harvard Mineralogical Museum, and the three Harvard Art Museums.

Hopefully, this gives you some ideas for your New York to Boston day trip !

FAQs – Boston day trip from NYC

To finish up, here are some common questions about visiting Boston from New York .

How far is Boston from New York?

Boston is about 215 miles from New York City.

What is the drive time between NYC and Boston?

Depending on traffic, the drive time to Boston from NYC is about 5 hours.

What is the best way to travel from NYC to Boston?

The best way to travel from NYC to Boston depends on your goals. If you’re in a hurry, you can take a train, but be aware that it’s more expensive. The cheapest way to get to Boston from NYC is by bus.

What is the fastest way to go from NYC to Boston?

The fastest way to Boston from NYC is by train since the trip takes as little as 3 hours and 45 minutes.

How much is a train ticket to Boston from New York?

The ticket price for a train from New York to Boston ranges from about $125 to $215 round-trip.

How much is a bus from New York to Boston?

Taking a bus from NYC to Boston is the cheapest option, with ticket prices around $30-$60 round-trip.

What is there to see between Boston and New York?

The distance between Boston and New York City is over 200 miles, so there are some cool places to see along the way:

• New Haven, CT – This city has a lovely downtown area and a 175-year-old lighthouse, and it’s the home of Yale University.
• Mystic, CT – This waterfront town has the charm of a small fishing village as well as interesting attractions like the Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Museum of Art.
• Newport, RI – A quintessential New England city, Newport boasts beautiful views of Narragansett Bay, historic mansions, and recreational activities like sailing, biking, and golf.

With that, you have everything you need to plan your trip from New York to Boston . Of course, don’t hesitate to leave me any questions about taking a day trip to Boston from New York . I’d also love to hear about your experience visiting this historic city. Until then, have a wonderful time!

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How to Travel from New York to Boston by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The iconic New England city of Boston , Massachusetts, is 215 miles northeast of New York City. Boston has a population of more than 690,000 and is one of the oldest cities in America. To get from New York City to Boston, there are several transportation options. Consider the pros and cons of each to choose the best transportation option for you. Advanced booking of many of these options can offer additional savings.

Although flying is considered the quickest option for getting from New York to Boston (with flight times of around an hour), flights can be pricy, and when you factor in time spent getting to the airport, going through security, and waiting for your flight, flying doesn't save that much time. Buses are often affordable, but trips can be lengthy—sometimes more than five hours once you've accounted for traffic. Driving can take just under four hours on a good day without traffic, but renting a car can be troublesome for visitors, especially since both Boston and New York City have robust and easy-to-use options for public transportation.

How to Get from New York to Boston

• Train: 3 hours, 40 minutes, from $98 (Acela) or 4 hours, 20 minutes, from $56 (Amtrak)
• Flight: 1 hour, from $98 (fastest)
• Bus: 4 hours, 30 minutes, from $12 (budget-friendly)
• Car: 3 hours, 50 minutes, 220 miles (354 kilometers)

Traveling by train to and from Boston and New York City is a quick, low-stress option. Trains go from Penn Station in Manhattan to Boston's South Station. The route is serviced by Amtrak, which offers the Acela service, a higher-speed train with costlier tickets, and regional Amtrak service on a train that makes more frequent stops. The latter can take up to five hours and include 15-20 stops, but tickets are less expensive—sometimes starting as low as $56 oneway. Meanwhile, the Acela can cost upwards of $98 oneway. These trains also offer Wi-Fi service.

You can purchase tickets in advance by  Amtrak  or in person at Penn Station . The biggest advantage of traveling this way is that Amtrak is quick and direct.

Bus service to and from New York City and Boston is an easy, affordable option. Trips can take four hours and up, depending on the traffic. The Greyhound buses depart from Port Authority Bus Terminal , while other bus services, like the  Bolt Bus  and Mega Bus , depart curbside, primarily from the west side of Manhattan. There are also different bus services, like Peter Pan , Lucky Star , and Flix Bus , that run this route. Each bus company offers many departures daily, sometimes hourly. A ticket per person can cost from $5 to $40 each way, making bus travel from New York to Boston one of the cheapest ways to travel.

The most significant advantage of bus travel is that it is cheap and has frequent departures. Most of the buses offer Wi-Fi service. The most significant disadvantage is that traffic can sometimes be unpredictable and it is not as comfortable as the train.

You can drive to and from Boston and New York City—the most direct route takes you through Connecticut on I-84 E to I-90 E in Massachusetts and is about 215 miles. The drive passes through New Haven or Hartford, Connecticut, both of which can be troublesome with traffic during rush hour or weekends. For most visitors to the region, it does not make a lot of sense to rent a car since you might not need a car in either city, and parking can be difficult and expensive. Plan on about five hours of travel time, though stops and traffic will add to the overall trip. Visitors to New York City can rent cars in Manhattan, although rates at the airports tend to be cheaper, if less convenient.

The biggest advantage to travel via car is that it can be a good value if you are traveling with a group or children, and there is no schedule to adhere to. Disadvantages include a pricey car rental, traffic and parking in either city can be a hassle. A day trip to Boston from New York City can be ambitious since car travel can take up to five hours, but it is doable. To make travel worthwhile and to enable you to get a seafood-packed bite or a hint of the rich history in Boston, an overnight trip might be a better idea.

Flying to and from Boston is the fastest way to travel. The flight takes about an hour, but that does not include time spent getting to and from the airport, checking bags, or clearing security. That said, some shuttle flights to and from New York City and Boston can be cheaper than the train and run frequently. Most major carriers, including JetBlue, Delta, United, and American Airlines, service the route, with one-way fares usually around $98—but sometimes even lower. Boston Logan International Airport  is the closest and most convenient airport to downtown Boston and the T train runs from the airport to downtown.

Travel by plane can be an advantage because it is fast, and can be less expensive than the train. Often the biggest disadvantages are dealing with airport hassles and factoring in the time, energy, and cost of getting to and from the airport.

What to See in Boston

More than 28 million people head to Boston each year, eager to explore this historical city. Boston played an essential role in the American Revolution, which can be explored by walking the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, of which a self-guided tour can cover many of the famous landmarks. Other popular Boston attractions include Quincy Market, the Boston Museum of Science, and Fenway Park. Predictably, the city is well-known for excellent seafood, such as lobster rolls and clam chowder, and also has excellent Italian food .

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Where To Eat

The 25 Best Restaurants in Boston Right Now

It’s not just seafood and Italian in the greater Boston area. There’s great Vietnamese, omakase, Peruvian and even bagels worth seeking out. (Don’t worry, there’s also great seafood and Italian.) We’ll see you in the comments.

Tonino in Jamaica Plain. Credit... Gabby Riggieri

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By Kevin Pang ,  Priya Krishna and Brian Gallagher

Kevin Pang is a former restaurant critic and the author of a book about Chinese cooking. Priya Krishna is a reporter and Brian Gallagher is an editor for New York Times Food and Cooking.

• Published April 15, 2024 Updated April 21, 2024

In the Where to Eat: 25 Best series, we’re highlighting our favorite restaurants in cities across the United States. These lists will be updated as restaurants close and open, and as we find new gems to recommend. As always, we pay for all of our meals and don’t accept free items.

Bagelsaurus

Porter Square | Bagels

Bostonians don’t need more guff from New Yorkers, and they certainly don’t want to hear any food bragging, which seems likely to devolve into vulgarities. When it comes to bagels, Boston can’t claim ownership of a style, though Bagelsaurus wouldn’t be a bad example for others in the city to emulate. Using a sourdough starter that’s four decades old, Bagelsaurus’s bagels aren’t as dense as New York or Montreal versions. Fresh from the oven, they bear a chewy and crackly crust with an airy, open interior, like a warm circular baguette. It turns out that this lighter texture makes adding cold-smoked salmon, dill and cream cheese a much more pleasurable sandwich experience. What’s more, a Bagelsaurus bagel sitting out for a few hours doesn’t harden into an object capable of blunt-force trauma. KEVIN PANG

1796 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge; 857-285-6103; bagelsaurus.com

Bánh Mì Ba Lẹ

Dorchester | Vietnamese, Sandwiches

“Fast food” isn’t necessarily pejorative. At Bánh Mì Ba Lẹ, the sheer quantity of Vietnamese groceries, pastries, dessert drinks, noodle salads and hot prepared foods is an overwhelming sight. (With many, just pop the plastic lid and start consuming — it’s that fast.) But there’s a reason the bánh mì is its namesake sandwich. The speed with which they are made belies their refinement. What makes Ba Lẹ’s version especially memorable are the house-baked rolls, with a shatteringly crisp crust and a soft, open interior. When you bite into a freshly made bánh mì here, be prepared for a shrapnel of crumbs exploding in every direction, giving way to tender pork cold cuts, smooth livery pâté and crunchy matchsticks of pickled daikon and carrots. Even better than the flagship đặc biệt sandwich is the barbecue beef bánh mì, its grilled meat bearing the sweetest char you’ll encounter. KEVIN PANG

1052 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester; 617-265-7171; balebanhmiboston.com

Brookline | Greek

Just as you wouldn’t find spaghetti alla puttanesca in Venice, there’s no trace of octopus, branzino or horiatiki on the Greek menu at Bar Vlaha. The restaurant tells the story of the Vlachophone Greeks, historically shepherds from the mountains of northern and central Greece. Unlike their coastal counterparts, the Vlachs foraged mushrooms and snails from forests, caught eels from streams and trout from freshwater lakes. This is Greek cooking with more rustic intentions, with red wine, beef cheeks and prunes marrying for hours inside clay pots. Undeniably, Bar Vlaha’s flavors are of Greek provenance — the spit-roasted leg of lamb is redolent of oregano, rosemary and char — but even familiar sauces get Vlachian touches; the tzatziki, for example, is sweetened with honey. KEVIN PANG

1653 Beacon Street, Brookline; 617-906-8556; barvlaha.com

Belle Isle Seafood

Winthrop | Seafood

Don’t let anyone tell you being a fry cook isn’t a noble calling. Especially when frying seafood, where the margin between perfectly done and overcooked is measured in seconds. Belle Isle Seafood — essentially a waterfront warehouse with views of arriving flights at Logan International Airport — has clearly battered and deep-fried many tons of haddock, scallops and onion rings. A plate of fried pick-your-protein will arrive oversized, with an ideal combination of nongreasy and satisfyingly crisp. For the fried-averse, the lobster pie is fabulous but hardly more calorically advisable: a half-pound of lobster meat topped with breadcrumbs and butter and baked until golden, a direct line to the pleasure centers of the brain. KEVIN PANG

1 Main Street, Winthrop; 617-567-1619; belleisleseafood.net

Union Square | Peruvian

They say that first, you eat with your eyes. Even before a single dish hits the table at Celeste, the surrounding visuals prime you with expectations. The clean lines of the furniture, the room lit in cobalt blue and the restaurant’s neon sign all make you feel you’re at a modern art exhibition doubling as a Peruvian restaurant. Then the ceviche arrives in an arrangement that looks architecturally engineered. It’s a gorgeous pavilion of red onions, orange sweet potatoes, blue cod, squid and shrimp, with smooth and crunchy corn kernels scattered through. Then you taste it. Lesser ceviches elsewhere are made ahead for expediency, turning the fish mealy; the cooks here add the lime juice marinade one minute before it’s served. I could go on (I’ve never had a lomo saltado that allowed me to request the doneness of the beef), but you should just visit, with open eyes. KEVIN PANG

21 Bow Street, Somerville, 617-616-5319; celesteunionsquare.com

Comfort Kitchen

Dorchester | African Diaspora

Is this dish Indian? Jamaican? Senegalese? At Comfort Kitchen, those questions are the whole point. Here, the owners Biplaw Rai, who is from Nepal, and Kwasi Kwaa, from Ghana, want to illustrate just how connected food traditions are, through ingredients that have traveled across continents, either through forced migration or trade routes. Duck is dusted with jerk seasoning, served alongside Jamaican rice and peas and served with pikliz, a pickled vegetable condiment from Haiti. Okra is seared in brown butter, topped with fried plantain crumbs and served with yogurt seasoned with garam masala from Mr. Rai’s mother. Despite all this zigzagging through countries and flavors, each dish still manages to feel coherent and captivating — like a story unfolding in several parts. PRIYA KRISHNA

611 Columbia Road, Dorchester; 617-329-6910; comfortkitchenbos.com

Brookline Village | Sandwiches

Most sandwiches fall into that midzone of expectations, somewhere between acceptable and halfway decent. To stumble upon a spectacular sandwich is rare, which makes Cutty’s a unicorn. Since 2010, the wife-and-husband team Rachel and Charles Kelsey have engineered sandwiches with a rigor befitting their fine-dining pedigree. They understand that different proteins require different breads, toasted to a specific crispness; a plush brioche is best for roast beef with crispy shallots and Thousand Island, while ciabatta can withstand crisp bacon and sautéed Swiss chard. The Kelseys’ sandwich meditations yield bliss in unexpected places: If the idea of a broccoli rabe sandwich sounds dreadful, allow Cutty’s magnificent rendition — with sweet tomato jam, provolone, and mozzarella on a griddled sesame torta — to prove you dead wrong. KEVIN PANG

284 Washington Street, Brookline; 617-505-1844; cuttyfoods.com

Field & Vine

Union Square |New American

Tucked down an alley, Field & Vine reveals itself as a restaurant in an industrial space slowly being reclaimed by nature. Wisteria and grapevines twist into a sculptural bramble that hangs overhead, as if about to swallow the exposed ductwork, and everywhere there is greenery and candlelight. If Sara Markey and Andrew Brady’s restaurant were simply pretty, that’d be enough reason to come sip some wine at the bar. But there are unexpected moments of inventiveness on the menu: a tuna crudo pounded into a 12-inch LP with candied pistachios and rhubarb vinaigrette, or potatoes deep-fried into a hash-brown brick topped with house-smoked mackerel and garlic spread. To further the enchanted woodland theme, a hearth is put to fine use, crisping duck legs and charring cabbage. KEVIN PANG

9 Sanborn Court, Somerville; 617-718-2333; fieldandvinesomerville.com

Porter Square | Italian

Certain restaurants become forever linked with hallmark dishes, like the baked alaska at Oleana or the cannoli at Mike’s Pastry . Giulia, known for its exceptional handmade pastas, can claim four dishes beloved by the Boston dining cognoscenti: the wild boar pappardelle, bucatini all’amatriciana, warm semolina cakes and pistachio gelato. There’s something reassuring about walking into this restaurant with total confidence that all four are fully realized compositions, their deliciousness not up for debate. And that’s no slight to the newer dishes rotated onto the menu by the chef, Michael Pagliarini (he and his wife, Pamela Ralston, are co-owners). But those classics embody the simple, sophisticated cooking that has endeared Giulia to the Cambridge community; you will almost wish you lived within walking distance. KEVIN PANG

1682 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge; 617-441-2800; giuliarestaurant.com

Brookline Village | Thai

What makes Thai cooking alluring is that its sweet-sour-salty-spicy elements are so often pushed thrillingly up the dial. When those assertive flavors are parceled out onto small plates and spread over many courses — as they are at Mahaniyom — a meal turns Technicolor. Dining at this Thai tapas bar sets off many sensory pleasures, from the velvety fieriness in a crab red curry to fried chicken skins that crackle mightily. You taste these dishes in cramped seating arrangements over loud conversations in a dim space that rattles with kinetic energy. Chompon Boonnak and Smuch Saikamthorn, childhood friends turned restaurant owners, have even captured that spirit in their beverage program: The rye whiskey is steeped with Thai tea leaves, then used in a Sazerac. KEVIN PANG

236 Washington Street, Brookline; 617-487-5986; mahaniyomboston.com

Back Bay | Tasting Menu

How many tasting-menu restaurants would serve a straight-up grilled cheese sandwich? Mooncusser does, and it’s playful, unexpected moves like this that make its multicourse dinners far less daunting. In the three years since Carl Dooley took over as chef, the menu has evolved from a focus on seafood to global eclecticism. Successive courses might travel the world, from a dish evoking Texas (a marinated red snapper with smoked pecan tasting like barbecued crudo) to an Ethiopian preparation (snails and injera with green cardamom koch-kocha sauce), to a Korean American grilled cheese. That mini-sandwich — with kimchi and a dough hydrated with butternut squash juice — turns an afterthought like the bread course into something top-of-mind and sensational. KEVIN PANG

304 Stuart Street, Boston; 617-917-5193; mooncusserboston.com

Ming Seafood Restaurant

Quincy | Cantonese, Dim Sum

A rule of thumb for dim sum restaurants: Bigger is often better. For in-the-know customers, crowds waiting for tables in a large banquet hall is a validating sight, and an expansive menu demonstrates a kitchen’s confidence. Ming Seafood Restaurant is big in all those ways. It does the basics well — juicy shumai, beef ho fun noodles with the requisite char. But then there’s a section called “fusion dim sum,” and here’s where things get interesting. You could order a sampler of nine pieces from the fusion menu that arrive in a partitioned wood box. There’s a shrimp-truffle dumpling in a cuttlefish ink wrapper. There’s mango pudding set in a rubber-ducky mold and a durian pastry shaped like a swan. A bit wacky? Sure. But a little whimsy is welcome if you can nail the fundamentals. KEVIN PANG

477 Hancock Street, Quincy; 617-202-5118; ming.bz

Neptune Oyster

North End | Seafood

After 18 years in the North End, Neptune is as much a part of Boston as tour guides in tricorn hats and “Go, Sawx!” You will wait, often more than an hour, but once you are ensconced in a banquette, or better yet at the bar, you will savor the perch. Neptune is among the highest versions of the oyster-bar form — pressed-tin ceilings, a marble bar, iced beds of bivalves and crab claws — but it is also more. Dishes like cuttle-ink risotto with generous chunks of lobster, and Nantucket Bay scallop crudo with Persian cucumbers lift the menu above the merely canonical. There’s a lobster roll, of course, but you didn’t wait all that time for a lobster roll. Or maybe you did. BRIAN GALLAGHER

63 Salem Street No. 1, Boston; 617-742-3474; neptuneoyster.com

Nightshade Noodle Bar

Lynn | French Vietnamese

As restaurants began digging out of financial holes after the pandemic, many opted to serve more accessible dishes, with artistry taking a back seat. Five years ago Nightshade Noodle bar opened on the North Shore, with half the menu features noodles of some kind. But post-lockdown, the chef Rachel Miller zigged when most others zagged: She guessed that guests yearning for adventurous cooking would be receptive to a French-Vietnamese-Southern tasting menu. Her gamble paid off, both in popularity and culinary ambition. Over nine, 14 or 21 courses, you might encounter foie gras glazed with fish-sauce caramel sitting atop coconut sticky rice (a Vietnamese nigiri), or a wondrous grilled cardinal prawn, the size of an outstretched palm, doused with a Viet-Cajun butter of garlic and lemongrass. KEVIN PANG

73 Exchange Street, Lynn; 781-780-9470; nightshadenoodlebar.com

Downtown | Omakase Sushi

When Tim and Nancy Cushman opened O Ya 17 years ago, the idea of introducing ceviche marinades or Vietnamese caramel into Edomae sushi was provocative. But O Ya’s staying power shows that inventive spirit paid off. Like all great omakases, a night at O Ya is more than the sum of its parts: It’s the crescendos and countermelodies that weave between courses. Unexpected treatments of nigiri (a Georgian sauce of apricots and walnuts on bluefin maguro) give way to lighter sashimi. The meal progresses to richer bites like fatty chutoro with green onions and wasabi oil, before ending on a one-two punch of grilled A5 Wagyu, then foie gras lacquered with chocolate balsamic. It remains a thrilling ride. KEVIN PANG

9 East Street, Boston; 617-654-9900; o-ya.restaurant

Central Square | New American

Years ago, Pammy’s received plenty of good press for adding the Korean fermented chile paste gochujang to its Bolognese. It’s delicious, to be sure, but that pasta’s success was also a curse — Pammy’s was misinterpreted as the funky Italian spot between Harvard and Central Squares. But Pammy’s is no one-hit wonder. Here’s a restaurant where a starter plate is bread baked with flour milled in the kitchen each morning. There’s a buttery skate wing glazed with Japanese tonkatsu sauce, and a take on shrimp-and-grits with cardinal prawns and chile crisp. That’s not to say the owners, Pam and Chris Willis, hide their pasta acumen. The standout dish is a luscious, smoky pasta that’s equal parts braised tripe and wavy mafaldine noodles, an incomparable bowl of squiggly goodness. KEVIN PANG

928 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge; 617-945-1761; pammyscambridge.com

Fort Point and other locations | Seafood

Chuck an oyster shell in any direction in Boston and you’ll hit a seafood restaurant, from blue-collar fry houses to multistory harborfront properties. Row 34 (with four locations across Massachusetts and New Hampshire) serves the requisite clam chowder, halibut and calamari, but it takes a few extra steps in advancing the genre. It smokes, cures and pâtés a variety of seafoods, it makes saltine crackers in-house, and lobsters — caught by the chef Jeremy Sewall’s cousin and his son — land on plates within 48 hours of leaving the ocean. The resulting lobster rolls cost more here than at other restaurants, but they are superlative. KEVIN PANG

383 Congress Street (original Fort Point location), Boston; 617-553-5900; row34.com

Winter Hill | Mediterranean, Global

Fusion has become a pejorative term, evoking passé ideas like Southwestern egg rolls. If you’d like to label the chef Cassie Piuma’s cooking as Mediterranean fusion, fine, but it sells short how well her cross-cultural mash-up at Sarma often works. The through line of the vast, small-plates menu is Eastern Mediterranean, but it might wander off to the American South in a custardy jalapeño cornbread with feta, or to Quebec in a poutine of porcini gravy, fried halloumi curds and celery-root fries. In Ms. Piuma’s techniques there’s a respectful nod to tradition, but she’s also unafraid to break a few rules, all in service of making the dish work. If you can make juicy nuggets of fried chicken with a crispy coating reminiscent of falafel, why not? KEVIN PANG

249 Pearl Street, Somerville; 617-764-4464; sarmarestaurant.com

Sofra Bakery and Cafe

Cambridge | Turkish, Lebanese and Greek

Come early and order everything. That’s the appropriate way to experience Sofra, whose menu tours Turkey, Lebanon and Greece, and whose flavor combinations are singular. Here you’ll find excellent versions of classic meze like baba ghanouj and muhammara. But pay close attention to the pastries, overseen by Maura Kilpatrick. Doughnuts come filled with a tahini sour-cream custard and brown butter; cinnamon rolls are sweetened with dates and slathered in cream cheese. Nothing is cloying, and the chef Ana Sortun and her team put the utmost care into perfecting each element, down to the freshly milled grains. PRIYA KRISHNA

1 Belmont Street, Cambridge, 617-661-3161; sofrabakery.com

Sumiao Hunan Kitchen

Kendall Square | Hunanese

Sumiao Chen had a midcareer epiphany that a life in pharmaceuticals wasn’t right for her. Longing for the food of her childhood in Hunan, China, Ms. Chen opened her namesake restaurant in 2017 near the M.I.T. campus, one that resembles no other Chinese spot around town. From the outside looking in, you might think a place with this vibey coastal aesthetic would serve crab cakes and flatbread, but the restaurant’s adherence to traditional Hunanese cooking is without compromise. When a dish is noted as spicy, you’d better believe it — even a salad as innocuous-sounding as green pepper and century egg sneaks up quickly. Those unaccustomed to the slippery texture of fat might flinch at the sheer amount in the red-braised pork belly, but this classic sweet-savory dish of Hunan warms and satisfies like few others. KEVIN PANG

270 Third Street, Cambridge; 617-945-0907; sumiaohunan.com

Union Square | Vietnamese

There are several remarkable things about the Eaves, beginning with the location. Shoehorned inside a 550-square-foot storage closet at Bow Market, the space was seductively transformed by the owners, Vincenzo Le and Duong Huynh. More noteworthy is that in less than a year since opening, the Eaves has demonstrated how Vietnamese cooking in America can evolve beyond the realm of phở and bún bò huế. Mr. Le and Ms. Huynh, who are married, belong to a new generation of Vietnamese restaurateurs, young and hungry, presenting dishes and cocktails faithful to their culinary heritage at prices you’d find on a farm-to-table menu. They pull it off splendidly in offerings like chả cá lã Vọng — typically cooked with catfish in its native Hanoi and reimagined in New England with monkfish — fried crisp with turmeric and served atop vermicelli and cashews. KEVIN PANG

1 Bow Market Way, Somerville; 617-996-6954; instagram.com/midnight_eaves

Jamaica Plain | Italian

Unlike many other Boston neighborhoods, Jamaica Plain (locals call it J.P.) is home to few Italian restaurants. Tonino fills that void with aplomb; the 28-seater is the embodiment of somebody’s favorite cute neighborhood spot. The pasta- and pizza-focused menu put together by the chef and owner, Luke Fetbroth, is taut and efficient. His best trait seems to be taking a handful of ingredients and doing as little to them as possible. The maitake and oyster-mushroom lumache is simple and flawless, its creaminess coming from roasted garlic crème fraîche. Then there’s toasted cubes of housemade bread, each smeared with a borderline inappropriate amount of butter and draped with a single length of anchovy. It is a salty, buttery, perfect one-biter. KEVIN PANG

669A Centre Street, Jamaica Plain; 617-524-9217; toninojp.com

South End | Spanish

The Ken Oringer restaurant universe stretches from Japanese to Italian to wine bars, but his South End tapas joint Toro — 20 years on — may be the most beloved. Perhaps it’s because the small portions of Spanish tapas can afford punchier treatments and bolder flavors: A pressed sandwich of miso butter and uni achieves peak crunch and umami. The executive chef, Darrell Boles, is a faithful steward of the Toro name, his kitchen putting out consistently superb roasted bone marrow and formidable platters of paella. These are dishes that never fail to receive envious stares from guests at nearby tables. KEVIN PANG

1704 Washington Street, Boston; 617-536-4300; toro-restaurant.com

Via Cannuccia

Dorchester | Roman

All Italian-born chefs will claim culinary superiority for their home regions; Stefano Quaresima seems impassioned to make the case for Lazio. Named for the street where he grew up, Via Cannuccia might be the closest Boston gets to a true Roman trattoria. The lengths to which Mr. Quaresima goes to showcase his corner of Italy are impressive: His team prepares cream buns and bombolini doughnuts for brunch, rolls out pasta and pizza doughs, and finds time to roast porchetta and bake sourdough. Lesser chefs might just use quartered chicken for pollo alla Romana. Mr. Quaresima’s version, though, involves a chicken ballotine, deboned and sausage-stuffed, then cooked sous vide for 18 hours. His treatment of cacio e pepe, the quintessential Roman pasta, teases out supreme creaminess and nuttiness from just four ingredients. KEVIN PANG

1739 Dorchester Avenue, Boston; 617-506-1877; viacannuccia.com

Yume Ga Arukara

Porter Square, Seaport | Udon

Yume Ga Arukara makes just one thing and makes it well: udon, the thick Japanese wheat flour noodles. They’re extruded from the stainless steel machine in beautiful floured strands, and emerge smooth and slippery once boiled, with the barest suggestion of a chew. The purest expression of udon is in a dashi broth — here, your choices are hot or cold, spicy or not, each accompanied by fatty beef slices, scallions and crisp tempura bits. Take your pick, you can’t choose wrong. While its original location occupies a cramped and perpetually busy space inside a student center at the Lesley University Porter Square Campus, the new Seaport shop is a sit-down restaurant with a larger kitchen, which in time will offer a larger menu. KEVIN PANG

1815 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge; 70 Pier 4 Boulevard, Suite 260, Boston; yumegaarukara.com

Follow New York Times Cooking on Instagram , Facebook , YouTube , TikTok and Pinterest . Get regular updates from New York Times Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice .

Priya Krishna is a reporter in the Food section of The Times. More about Priya Krishna

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Takeaways and Surprises From the ‘New York Times’ 25 Best Restaurants in Boston List

Tonino, Comfort Kitchen, Bar Vlaha, and more made the list

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Share All sharing options for: Takeaways and Surprises From the ‘New York Times’ 25 Best Restaurants in Boston List

The New York Times has been busy dropping city-specific restaurant lists over the past six months or so. There’s the mega list of top-100 restaurants in New York City that the Times ’ restaurant critic Pete Wells is in charge of, and then smaller top-25 lists have been published in Seattle, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Chicago, New Orleans, and San Francisco. This week, it was Boston’s turn for the treatment.

On Monday, April 15, the newspaper published its guide to “ The 25 Best Restaurants in Boston Right Now ” highlighting 25 restaurants in and around the city. It’s a big-deal spotlight for our city’s dining scene, which historically has been underrepresented when it comes to national media attention.

The process for putting together the list “involved a lot of scouting and a lot of dining out,” Jordan Cohen, a spokesperson for the Times , said in an email. “For all of these lists, Boston included, we eat in all of the restaurants we feature, but also in many that don’t end up making the lists, as part of our research diligence. We also pay for all of our meals and give no advance notice that we’re visiting.”

The effort was led by Kevin Pang, a former Chicago Tribune restaurant critic and food writer who is based in Chicago but, as the former editorial director at America’s Test Kitchen, traveled frequently to Boston for work, according to Cohen. San Francisco-based editor Brian Gallagher and New York City-based writer Priya Krishna also contributed entries for three restaurants that they’ve previously scouted for the Times ’s annual list of the best restaurants in America. In 2022, Gallagher included North End seafood stalwart Neptune Oyster, while Krishna included Dorchester’s Comfort Kitchen on the 2023 version of the list, and Cambridge bakery and cafe Sofra on the 2021 list .

Another local spot that got a spot on the Times’ national best restaurant list in 2022, Cambridge wine bar Dear Annie, was absent on this Boston-specific list. However, Field & Vine , another restaurant run by Dear Annie co-owners Andrew Brady and Sara Markey, was included.

The list is heavy on Italian and seafood restaurants, with inclusions like Jamaica Plain gem Tonino and Quincy mainstay Ming Seafood Restaurant. However, a few well-known names with popular Italian restaurants in Boston, including Karen Akunowicz ( Fox & the Knife , Bar Volpe ) and Douglass Williams ( Mida ) were not included. No Italian restaurants in the North End made the list.

Many types of cuisines were not represented at all, including Mexican, Korean, Indian, and Portuguese restaurants. The Times ’s city-specific restaurant lists have also included bars in other locations , but no Boston bars made the cut here. There were no pizzerias on the list, either.

In total, seven Boston neighborhoods were represented on the list. Dorchester was the neighborhood with the most restaurants included (Comfort Kitchen, Banh Mi Ba Le, and Via Cannuccia) while other restaurant-rich neighborhoods like Chinatown and Roxbury were not represented at all. Further afield, restaurants in Cambridge, Somerville, Brookline, and Quincy were included, while Newton received no entries on the list.

Here are some takeaways by the numbers:

New restaurants: 4. The restaurants on the list that have opened (roughly) within the past year are Via Cannuccia , Comfort Kitchen , Bar Vlaha , and the Eaves .

City representation: Boston proper has 10 entries on the list; Cambridge has 6; Somerville has 4; Brookline has 3; Quincy has 1; and Winthrop has 1.

Neighborhoods with the most restaurants on the list: Dorchester, Union Square, and Porter Square each have three entries on the list.

Seafood: 5. Row 34 , Ming Seafood Restaurant , O Ya , Neptune Oyster , and Belle Isle Seafood

Italian: 3.5 . Giulia , Via Cannuccia, Tonino . Pammy’s is Italian-ish, with a strong pasta program, but it also serves other dishes outside of the cuisine and is labeled as “New American” on the list.

Tasting menu restaurants: 3. O Ya (which only serves a 20-course omakase), Nightshade Noodle Bar , and Mooncusser

Vietnamese: 2.5. Banh Mi Ba Le , the Eaves , and Nightshade Noodle Bar , which takes its cues from both French and Vietnamese cooking.

Chinese: 2. Ming Seafood Restaurant and Sumiao Hunan Kitchen

Greek: 1.5. Bar Vlaha and Sofra , which dabbles in some Greek dishes

Thai: 1. Mahaniyom

Peruvian: 1. Celeste

Sushi: 1. O Ya

Sandwich spots: 1. Cutty’s

Pizzerias: 0.

Ramen spots: 0.

Restaurant groups with more than one place on the list: 1. Oleana leader Ana Sortun also co-owns Sarma and Sofra , both of which made the New York Times list.

Most expensive restaurant on the list: O Ya , where 20-course omakases start at $295 per person.

Least expensive restaurant on the list: Bagelsaurus , where the bagels start at $2.75 each.

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Earthquake shakes U.S. East Coast

An earthquake struck the East Coast of the United States on Friday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, causing buildings to shake and rattling nerves from Maryland to Maine.

The USGS measured the quake as a 4.8 temblor with its epicenter near Lebanon, New Jersey. It struck a little before 10:30 a.m. ET. An aftershock of magnitude-4.0 hit right around 6 p.m. ET.

The morning earthquake was the strongest recorded in the Northeast in more than a decade, according to USGS records .

There were no immediate reports of major destruction or any fatalities. Local and regional officials from cities in the earthquake zone said inspections had been launched to ensure that buildings, bridges and other infrastructure were not damaged.

Follow here for live updates on the earthquake.

James Pittinger, mayor of Lebanon, New Jersey, called the earthquake “the craziest thing I’ve ever experienced.”  In an interview with MSNBC , he said he had not received reports of any significant damage so far, but added that the shaking caused his dog to run for cover and objects to fall off his shelves.

While a 4.8-magnitude temblor is not considered a major earthquake, even minor shaking can cause damage on the East Coast, which does not take similar precautions as other earthquake hot spots around the world.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the quake was felt across the state.

“My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day,” she wrote on X .

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in an afternoon news briefing that no major injuries or impacts to infrastructure were reported, and that people in the city should “go about their normal day.”

Ground stops were temporarily issued at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, according to the Federal Aviation Administration's website. Flight disruptions at the Newark airport continued into the afternoon .

The Port Authority Transit Corp., which operates a rapid transit route between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, suspended service in the aftermath of the quake.

“Crews will inspect the integrity of the line out of an abundance of caution,” PATCO said in an update on X . “Once inspection is complete, service will resume. No timeframe. Updates to follow.”

New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority said that there had been no impact to its service but that teams will be inspecting train lines. New Jersey Transit alerted riders of 20-minute delays due to bridge inspections following the earthquake.

While earthquakes in the northeast U.S. are rare, Buffalo, New York, was struck by a 3.8-magnitude quake in February 2023 — the strongest recorded in the area in 40 years.

A 4.1-magnitude earthquake struck the tri-state area in 2017, centered near Little Creek, Delaware,  according to the U.S. Geological Survey . And before that, a 5.8-magnitude quake  shook central Virginia in 2011,  and was felt across much of the East Coast, forcing hundreds of thousands people to evacuate buildings in New York, Washington and other cities.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said in a post on X that the state has activated its emergency operations center and asked the public not to call 911 unless they are experiencing an emergency.

Frederik J. Simons, a professor of geosciences at Princeton University, told NBC News that the earthquake occurred on a shallow fault system in New Jersey and lasted about 35 seconds.

“The shallower or the closer it is, the more we feel it as humans,” he said.

The quake originated at a depth of less than 3 miles,  according to the USGS . 

Earthquakes on the East Coast can be felt at a great distance and can cause more pronounced shaking in comparison to those on the West Coast because rocks in the region are often older, harder and more dense.  

“These are competent rocks that transmit energy well,” Simons said.

The earthquake ruptured within a fault zone known as the Ramapo system, Simons said. It’s a zone in relatively ancient rock that contains old faults and cracks from ancient tectonic processes. These old faults slowly accumulate stress and occasionally something slips, Simons said.

“There are cracks in it and now and then a little motion accumulates, the stress keeps growing, at very slow rates,” he said. “It’s like an old house creaking and groaning.”

Simons said this was one of the largest earthquakes in New Jersey in recent history. The last notable one was a magnitude-3.1 temblor in Freehold Township in September 2020. 

“I’m on campus at Princeton University for the biggest one I’ve felt in a lifetime,” he said. “This shaking was violent, strong and long.”

Some videos captured the moment of the earthquake, including one from a coffee shop in New Jersey.

The East Coast quake struck two days after a powerful 7.4-magnitude temblor shook the island of Taiwan, killing at least 12 people and injuring more than 1,000 others. The two incidents are not thought to be related, said Dara Goldberg, a USGS geophysicist.

“We’re much too far of a distance for the stress on the fault of Taiwan to affect New York,” she said.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Evan Bush is a science reporter for NBC News. He can be reached at [email protected].

Watch CBS News

Man dies after setting himself on fire near Trump trial courthouse in NYC

By Graham Kates , Pat Milton , Jericka Duncan

Updated on: April 20, 2024 / 8:38 PM EDT / CBS News

A man who set himself on fire outside the New York City courthouse where former President Donald Trump's hush money trial is underway has died, police said. 

Witnesses said that they saw the man — identified by the New York Police Department as 37-year-old Max Azzarello — pour liquid over his head and set himself on fire at 1:39 p.m. local time on Friday. 

In a briefing immediately after the incident, the NYPD said Azzarello, a Florida resident who had arrived in New York City earlier in the week, walked into Collect Pond Park, opened a book bag, and scattered papers and pamphlets on the ground before setting himself ablaze. Police described the materials as "like a conspiracy-theory type of pamphlet." 

Azzarello then fell on a police barrier. Civilians and court officers used coats and extinguishers to try to put out the fire, the NYPD said, and the New York City Fire Department responded, finally extinguishing the fire. 

The FDNY said that Azzarello was transported to New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical Center, which has a burn center, in critical condition. 

The NYPD confirmed to CBS News overnight that Azzarello had died on Friday night. 

Four officers who responded to the fire suffered minor injuries.

Azzarello had posted a statement on social media, officials said. Although the incident took place close to the court where Trump's trial is taking place, officials said Azzarello did not appear to be targeting any particular person or group and added that he seemed to be a conspiracy theorist.

One witness described pamphlets that Azzarello threw, apparently while making allegations about New York University.

 "I heard this clattering, and it was those papers that he had flung up in the air," the witness said. "That caught our attention and — caught my attention, anyway ... then he pulled out a can and he poured it over himself. And at that point, I thought, 'Oh ... this is gonna be awful." 

"It happened so fast — what do you do?" another witness said. 

Graham Kates is an investigative reporter covering criminal justice, privacy issues and information security for CBS News Digital. Contact Graham at [email protected] or [email protected]

More from CBS News

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A food tour of New York, Mexico, or Spain — with your favorite chef as your guide

Some of rhode island’s most popular chefs and food professionals are offering intimate tours to discover different cuisines and vineyards around the world.

PROVIDENCE — Picture this: You’re planning a trip to another part of the world, and your favorite chef gives you a list of places to try there. You trust their advice, and are looking forward to trying their suggestions, from places to grab dessert, to hole-in-the-wall spots to grab a glass of wine.

Now imagine they are actually with you on that trip, connecting you with locals, touring farms, and learning about the history and culture of a different place alongside a chef you trust and admire.

That kind of dream vacation is what Bethany Hodge, the head of product for Club Adventures, has created along with chefs, sommeliers, and restaurant owners from around Rhode Island . Club Adventures, which is part of AAA’s small group adventure tour operator, has designed a series of intimate and exclusive tours around the world that visit the destinations, wineries, and restaurants that continue to inspire them and their own menus.

These tours begin in early August, kicking off with a four-day New York City food adventure with a focus on modern mixology , which will be led by Jen Davis of The Eddy in Providence. Brendan Kennedy, the operations manager at Proclamation Ale Company , is leading a tour through Brussels and Munich for Oktoberfest . Chef Luke Mersfelder ( formerly of Bywater ) and his wife Britt Simons (of The Eddy) will be hosting an eight-day trip through Basque country where you’ll get to check out works by Warhol at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, taste the tannins of Spain’s famed wine regions, and eat oysters and escargot in France.

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Joaquin Meza, the co-owner of Dolores, will lead an eight-day trip through Mexico City to sample churros and tacos, to then head to Puebla and Oaxaca for small-batch Mezcal and a tasting of various moles. Meza’s mother, Maria Meza, was recently named a James Beard finalist for the Best Chef: Northeast award.

Ben Sukle, the chef and owner of Oberlin and Gift Horse , will be leading an eight-day journey through Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia. You could find yourself on a goat farm, eating from street vendors, and sampling strudel and fritaja. Robert Andreozzi, the co-owner of Pizza Marvin , is leading a wine-heavy trip through Porto, the coastal city of Aveiro (known as the Venice of Portugal), and will end by crossing the border into Spain for a stop at the fishing village of Combarro.

Hodge told me the idea of these exclusive food tours came to her during a conversation with Bethany Caliaro, a sommelier at Oberlin and Gift Horse, ahead of a trip to Mexico City. Caliaro, she said, had just returned from a trip there and gave her a list of places to go.

“Every suggestion on her list brought Mexico City to life. And they were things that I wouldn’t have known to look for,” said Hodge. “It made me think: ‘I would follow Bethany anywhere in the world.’”

Caliaro, who also co-owns Gift Horse, will be leading a 10-day trip through Sicily , where she’ll walk visitors through food street traditions, teach them how to fish like a “true” Sicilian, and taste incredible wines throughout the region.

Each chef, bartender, and business owner has been involved in curating their own itineraries. Each tour has a group maximum of 12 to 35 people.

The final tour is scheduled for the end of October, with Maria Lawton of Rhode Island PBS’ “ Maria’s Portuguese Table ” taking guests through the flavors of Azores . Think of this as your opportunity to taste volcanically influenced wines, visit a pineapple plantation, and learn how to make your own ceramics at a pottery factory.

“Having the insight and guidance of a food professional could really turn a trip into something memorable,” said Hodge, who said she will begin planning tours for 2025 soon. “Who better to curate and lead these tours than the chefs that are literally putting Rhode Island’s restaurant scene on the map?”

Alexa Gagosz can be reached at [email protected] . Follow her @alexagagosz and on Instagram @AlexaGagosz .

Massachusetts has no WNBA team. How far do you have to travel to see these women play?

Massachusetts may not have a team, but you can still root for WNBA teams just outside the Commonwealth.

The two nearest WNBA teams that could use some of that patented Massachusetts sports fan zeal are the Connecticut Sun and the New York Liberty.

The Sun and the Liberty are valued contenders in the landscape of the WNBA; however, they both still have that underdog quality that Mass. residents seem to gravitate toward. That and celebrated No. 1 draft pick Caitlin Clark will be playing home games at both stadiums this spring, if you're looking to take a trip to see her on the court.

How far is it to Mohegan Sun where the Connecticut Sun play 

From Worcester to the Mohegan Sun Arena, that is a 65 mile journey approximately. If you're traveling via train, your trip could take up to 4 or 5 hours.

While those numbers seems daunting, driving there only takes a little over 1 hour or an hour and a half.

So, if you're able to organize a road trip with some like-minded friends down to Uncasville to watch the Connecticut Sun play, you'll be set.

Dedicated fans will see no reason why not to go.

Connecticut Sun 2024 Schedule 

The Connecticut Sun is set to play from May 9, 2024 to Sept. 19.

Notable games include:

• May 14: Season opener against Indiana Fever
• May 25: Playing against last season's champions, the  Las Vegas Aces
• May 28: Playing against Phoenix Mercury and star player  Brittney Griner
• July 10: Playing against New York Liberty
• August 20: Playing against Los Angeles Sparks at TD Garden.

More about the Sun's 2024 schedule can be found  here .

More: What everyone needs to know about the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun in 2024

What’s the price of a CT Sun ticket? 

For a single ticket, most upper-level seats are ranging from $137 to a little over $200.

Lower-level seats are priced between $220 to $600, with extremely valuable lower-level sideline seats being sold at $2,000 and above.

One courtside seat is going for almost $4,000.

You can buy tickets to Connecticut Sun games here .

When does Caitlin Clark play in Connecticut? 

First draft pick Caitlin Clark will be playing in Connecticut on May 14.

She will be playing for the Indiana Fever against the Connecticut Sun.

How far is it to Brooklyn’s Barclays Center where the New York Liberty play?

Barclays Center in Brooklyn is almost 200 miles away from Worcester. Driving there takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

The train route to Barclays takes over 5 hours.

Despite the slightly longer trip, consider the train anyway, as finding parking in New York is a pain and you're able to conserve your energy for the game.

New York Liberty 2024 Schedule 

The New York Liberty will be playing from May 14 to Sept. 19.

Notable games on the schedule are:

• Home game, Indiana Fever versus the New York Liberty on May 18
• Away game, Connecticut Sun versus the New York Liberty on June 8
• Home game, Los Angeles Sparks versus the New York Liberty on June 20
• Home game, Chicago Sky versus the New York Liberty on July 11

More about the Liberty's 2024 schedule can be found here .

What’s the price of a NY Liberty ticket? 

Upper-level seats can cost from $131 to $200. Corner upper-level seats are priced around $250 to $280.

Lower-level seat tickets can be bought for $300 to $900.

A courtside seat's price is slightly above $5,000.

You can buy tickets to Liberty games here .

When does Caitlin Clark play in New York? 

Clark, with the Fever, will be playing in New York on May 18 against the Liberty in the Barclays Center.

Rin Velasco is a trending reporter. She can be reached at [email protected] .