8 of the Most Instagrammable Places in Boston
Heading to Boston on your next trip? Between the glittering city skyline and outdoor-friendly areas like Boston Harbor and Harvard Yard, tourists can enjoy a variety of activities. If the idea of a booming metropolis sounds daunting at first, here are a few quintessential Beantown sights to get you started. Here are our picks for the most Insta-worthy places in Boston.
1. Harvard Square
Famed and historical Harvard Square is the place where leisure meets academia. Enjoy a stroll around Harvard Yard or take a break in one of the many quirky cafés and restaurants like Koko Bakery, which is chock-full of homemade savory and sweet treats. Home to a variety of festivals and parties, you may just find yourself in the middle of a celebration; if you’re around, check out the Winter Carnival in January, the Chili Tasting Contest in February, or the Arts First Festival in late April. Don’t forget to bring your camera and snap some photos; this area has grown and evolved over decades of development by scholars and entrepreneurs.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZ1y7gOHxT8/?tagged=harvardsquare
2. Acorn Street
Located just west of the Massachusetts State House is Acorn Street, Boston’s favorite narrow alleyway. Reminiscent of colonial times, this cobblestone street offers a picturesque, quiet escape from the surrounding metropolis as it bisects the high-end neighborhood Beacon Hill. This gorgeous alley used to serve as a home to artisans and employees of the neighboring mansions, but today it serves as a quiet dwelling place and is often regarded as “the most photographed street in the United States.” Take a trip down Acorn Street and see for yourself; your followers will appreciate it.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZunSTCD_1O/?tagged=acornstreet
3. Boston Public Library
Known for its dedication to scholarly excellence, the greater Boston area stands as a monument to the pursuit of knowledge. Because of this, there is no better place to study than the Boston Public Library. Established in 1848, this visually stunning building is sure to impress. Check out the reading room in the McKim Building at the Central branch for some quiet time — and a great photo op.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZzWDV2g-vk/?tagged=bostonpubliclibrary
4. Charles River Esplanade
Located in Boston’s Back Bay, the Charles River Esplanade is a three mile path where many people like to walk, run, or simply enjoy the sunshine. The area begins near the Museum of Science and heads toward the Boston University Bridge, separating Boston from the town of Cambridge. This park also features a band shell which hosts performances from time to time; often during the summer months, visitors can enjoy concerts for free. For travelers who are looking for a place to stroll or relax on a sunny day, Charles River Esplanade is the perfect spot.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZbU57SgCTF/?tagged=charlesriveresplanade
5. The Reflecting Pool
For tourists who like to snap those artsy photos, the Reflecting Pool is a perfect place to stop. Located between the Christian Science Center and the Prudential Center, it offers a lovely (albeit upside down) view of the area buildings. The main attraction of the Reflection Point is the Christian Science Center, with its classical architecture and towering dome.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BIAv1GyBf6K/?tagged=christiansciencecenter
6. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Isabella Stewart Gardener was a wealthy intellect who found solace and pleasure in the collection and appreciation of artwork and manuscripts. With a whirlwind of inspiration and drive, she created her own museum which would house her collections, some of which are the most famous and rare in the world and include Vermeer’s The Concert and Rembrandt’s Self Portrait. When the museum opened in 1903, it was heralded by the Boston Symphony Orchestra as the interior gardens were unveiled, and the collections became available “for the education and enjoyment of the public forever.” Today, her vast and inspiring collection still remains open and the museum plays host to community events such as concerts, gallery events, and family nights; this hub for the arts was still remains a place with a strong community vibe.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BYtwPvBAhbE/?tagged=isabellagardnermuseum
7. Fenway Park
Even for tourists who do not consider themselves baseball fans, Fenway Park is iconic. Opened in April of 1912, the home of the Boston Red Sox is still known as “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark.” Schedule a tour and learn about the storied grounds, which have been known to make baseball fans out of even the most stubborn visitors. Plus, the Green Monster is perfect for the 'gram.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZzDwz9hjaC/?tagged=fenwaypark
8. Boston Public Garden
For a welcome reprieve from the busy streets of the city, Boston Public Garden is a city park directly in the heart of Boston. Established in 1837, this park was the first public botanical garden in the United States. Explore the many Victorian gardens and statues that adorn the park and learn about the history of the area by joining one of the free mid-week walking tours offered in the summertime. Also, don’t miss a ride through the marshland in a Swan Boat; this is arguably the most fun way to traverse the lagoon for travelers visiting the park between April and September. This park combines fresh garden air with an impressive city skyline in the background, perfect for a great photo.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZtuhxPDSOE/?tagged=bostonpublicgardens
What are your favorite Boston sights? Let us know in the comments below.
TPG featured card
Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.