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Getting to Know Boston, MA

As you begin your search for Boston apartments, take some time to explore one of America's oldest cities. Boston was founded in September 1630 and was a strong center for political action and social change as the nation came into its own. Major events during the American Revolution happened right here in the city of Boston. Your new apartment in Boston places you in one of the most historically significant cities in the nation.

 

Hosting more than 12 million visitors each year from across the country and the globe, Boston offers an exciting place to live. Whether you're looking for Boston luxury apartments, a studio or a cheap place to sleep in for those few hours you're not exploring the city, you'll find exactly what you need. Here are some of the area's highlights.

 

Did You Know?

Whether you're strolling the greens at Boston Common or sunning yourself at Revere Beach, you're taking in part in history. Boston is home to the nation's first public park and first public beach.

 

Boston Landmarks

Landmarks like the Old Corner Bookstore on the corner of School Street and Washington Street have been standing for centuries. However, long before this little brick building started selling books, it was a pharmacy.

 

The Old Corner Bookstore is only one of several sites along Boston's Freedom Trail, one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. This 2.5-mile red brick pathway through downtown Boston highlights 16 places such as the Park Street Church, which is significant because gunpowder was stored in its basement during the War of 1812.

 

Along the trail you'll also come across the Paul Revere House. It's the oldest building in downtown Boston, constructed in the late 1600s. You'll even view the spot where the Boston Massacre took place, as well as the burial ground where famous figures like Samuel Adams and John Hancock are laid to rest. Luckily for history buffs, there are scores of Boston apartments for rent near the city's historical landmarks.

 

Education Hotspot

More than just a charming city with lots of history, Boston is a top spot for higher education. Known as the "Athens of America," Boston is home to numerous colleges and universities with a myriad of academic programs. So regardless of what your interests are, there's likely a school in Boston for you.

 

For instance, the Occupational Therapy program at Boston University's College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences is one of the top in the nation. Not only does this program consistently rank among the best of the best, the urban neighborhood surrounding the campus is one of the most unique in the country.

 

If you're into the arts, you might want to rent an apartment near the School of the Museum of Fine Arts. Designed by artists for artists, this revered institution is dedicated to providing education for pioneers in the arts, whether it's sculpture, painting or sketching.

 

Average Rent in Boston

While rent varies significantly by neighborhood, residents in Boston can expect a higher average rent than most big cities, with the current average set at $2,802.

 

Boston Neighborhoods

Top neighborhoods for singles include Allston-Brighton, Fenway-Kenmore and Dorchester. For a more suburban vibe, check out apartments in quiet Brookline or eclectic Somerville. If you're moving to Boston for school, Cambridge and Mission Hill are popular districts for Boston's college crowd.

 

Finding Apartments in Boston

Recent and upcoming developments are adding new apartments to Charlestown, the North End and the West End, making it easier to settle near Charles River.

 

Use ApartmentGuide.com to search and sort the numerous Boston apartments by price, number of bedrooms, amenities and features. View apartment floor plans and get detailed neighborhood information for Boston apartments you're interested in. And even after you've found the perfect Boston apartment, check out our Moving Center for comprehensive information about decorating, dealing with movers and setting up utilities.

 

Public Transportation in Boston

To ride Boston's subway, called the "T," you can purchase a CharlieCard at any subway station and use the color-coded maps to plan your route.

 

Boston Events and Festivals

Each year brings a full slate of events to Boston, including festivals for foodies, St. Paddy's and Christmas celebrations, and local traditions like Boston Harborfest and the world-famous Boston Marathon.

 

Free Things to Do in Boston
Some fun free things to do in Boston include walking the Freedom Trail, picnics in Boston Common and tours of the Boston Public Library, Commonwealth Museum, and Samuel Adams Brewery.

 

Boston Sports

If you're a sports lover, there's no better place to be than Boston, the home of die-hard fans. Your new home in Boston gives you access to famous Fenway Park, where you can catch a Red Sox game, and the TD Garden, where the Celtics and Bruins play. You'll also be a short distance away from Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots and the New England Revolution. Of course, you can also get your fill of collegiate sports in the city.

 

If you're an athlete yourself, you might be interested in participating in the Boston Marathon or the Head of the Charles, which is the largest regatta in the world. There are also a number of parks and recreational sites where you can organize a pickup game with your friends. No matter what your interests may be, you'll be able to cater to them in Boston.

 

Free Things to Do in Boston with Kids

Boston offers a lot of free things for families to do, and our top picks for those with kids include stargazing at the Coit Observatory, playtime at the waterfront park on Castle Island, and the historical and cultural activities offered by the Highland Street Foundation's Free Fun Fridays.

 

Boston Outdoors

Located right on the water, Boston is a great place for nature enthusiasts who love to get outside. Situated near several beaches and only a few hours from Cape Cod, Boston is perfect for people who love to get out and bask in the sun during warm months. You can even leave straight from Boston Harbor and spend an afternoon whale watching! If you're looking for a more active take on the waterfront, you can rent a canoe, kayak or sailboat or sign up for a rowing class.

 

Those who love hiking will also be thrilled to learn that there are plenty of nearby trails and even a few legitimate mountains to climb close to Boston, including Mount Washington and Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire. You'll also find plenty of parks for jogging, skateboarding and fair-weather fun, or you can exercise your green thumb at an urban planting center like Fenway Victory Gardens.

 

Finding the Best Nightlife in Boston

With so many college students around, you know Boston has to have some serious nightlife. Whether you're looking for a hopping club where you can dance or a low-key coffee shop where you can unwind at the end of a long day, the city has plenty of options.

 

The Paradise Rock Club hosts national touring acts and large local bands that are sure to provide you with entertainment. The Middle East is also a great place to catch a live performance and indulge in a few drinks. With plenty of taxis available to get you back to your apartment, you won't have to worry about finding a designated driver.

 

Boston is overflowing with nightlife options, and here's a short list of top picks to get you started:

 

• Nightclubs: Royale, Venue, Cure Lounge, Machine, Tunnel, Rumor
• Bars: Frost Ice Bar, Drinking Fountain, Anchovies, Parlor Sports, Drink, Lookout Rooftop & Bar
• Dining: The Gallows, Roxy's Central + A4cade, Bond, Bostonia Public House
• Live Music: Wally's Cafe, Sinclair, Toad, House of Blues
• Comedy: Laugh Boston, Improv Asylum, Dick Doherty's Beantown Comedy
• Theaters: Charles Playhouse, Wang Theater, Schubert Theater, Boston Opera House, Boston Ballet

 

Getaways from Boston

While it's three to four hours to NYC, about five to Philly and almost eight to DC, you can get relatively cheap flights and arrive in about an hour and a half, or drive the 70 miles along the coast to Cape Cod.