🔎 Hidden gems in Boston that aren't basic

For fans, Central Perk is more than just a coffee shop—it’s the iconic gathering place where memories are made and friendships are celebrated.

☕ Central Perk Coffee Co - Located on Newbury Street, Central Perk brings the beloved café from the show to life with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. With the help of famed chef Tom Colicchio, Central Perk now serves a special collection of artisanal coffees roasted to order, crafted from premium arabica beans for a rich, full taste in every cup. Whether you’re sipping on a latte or enjoying a freshly brewed cup of joe, it’s the perfect place to relax and channel your inner Friends character.

🥯 A Coffee Break - Grab a spot on the famous orange couch and settle in for a moment of calm in the midst of your long weekend. It's the perfect spot to take a break from holiday shopping or catch up with friends over a warm cup of coffee.

🎄 What Is It? - Stone Zoo transforms into a dazzling holiday spectacle, with thousands of lights illuminating tree-lined paths throughout the zoo's 26 acres. Stroll through the beautifully decorated Yukon Creek, home to black bears, Canada lynx, reindeer, and other iconic animals. The holiday lights and displays create a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages, whether you’re a local or visiting for the season.

🦌 Other Attractions - While you're there, make sure to check out the animal exhibits, including the zoo’s iconic black bears and reindeer, which are especially festive this time of year. You can also explore the zoo's other animals in their winter habitats, making this a seasonal treat for nature lovers of all ages.

💸 Budget-friendly - Admission to the Stone Zoo’s holiday event is $15 for adults and $10 for children. It’s a great way to enjoy the season without breaking the bank! Be sure to check the Stone Zoo website for any special deals or events.

🌷 What Is It? - Created by father-and-son duo Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka between 1887 and 1936, these stunningly detailed glass models of plants are a rare fusion of art and science. The exhibit features over 4,000 glass flower pieces, all crafted with incredible precision. Originally made as teaching tools for Harvard’s botany department, the collection has since become one of the museum’s most iconic attractions.

🖼️ Other Exhibits - While you’re at the museum, don’t miss the other fascinating exhibits, like the Hall of Fossils, which showcases dinosaur skeletons and ancient sea creatures, or the Minerals Gallery, home to a dazzling collection of gemstones and minerals. You can also explore exhibits on evolutionary biology and biodiversity, offering a deeper look into the natural world.

✨ Budget-friendly - Admission to the Harvard Museum of Natural History is $15 for adults and $10 for Non-Harvard college students. It's also free to Massachusetts residents every Sunday morning from 9am to 12pm and on Wednesdays from 3pm to 5pm.

🕯️ Winter night escape - As the crisp November air settles, there's no better way to embrace the season than with a Candlelight Concert. Held in stunning venues like the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and Old South Church, these intimate performances offer the perfect cozy escape from the cold. Picture yourself surrounded by the soft glow of hundreds of candles, wrapped in warmth while talented musicians bring your favorite music to life. Whether you're nestled in a historic venue or lost in the glow of candlelight, it’s an experience that feels both magical and intimate—making it the perfect way to spend a winter evening in Boston.

🎶 Tributes to pop culture - The winter months make Candlelight Concerts even more special, with unique tributes to pop culture icons like Taylor Swift, Adele, and Bridgerton. Imagine a string quartet transforming All Too Well or Someone Like You into a hauntingly beautiful arrangement, or swaying to the lush orchestral sounds of the Bridgerton soundtrack as the candles flicker in the background. Whether you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, or pop music hits, these concerts bring your favorite songs to life in a whole new way—turning a cold winter night into a warm, unforgettable experience.

🪦 Forest Hills Cemetery - Established in 1848, this serene landscape serves as a burial ground and a stunning arboretum featuring over 200 species of trees and beautiful Victorian-era monuments. The winding pathways and picturesque views provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for contemplation and connection to the past.

🧺 Schoolmaster’s Picnic Area - Named after the historic schoolmaster who once oversaw the area, this picnic spot offers scenic views of the sprawling Franklin Park Golf Course below. The remnants of old stone structures in the picnic area, believed to be from the early 20th century, add a sense of mystery and charm to the location. With charming picnic tables, it’s the ideal location to soak in the vibrant fall foliage and breathtaking views of the golf course.

🐼 Franklin Park Zoo - The heart of the park - the Franklin Park Zoo invites you to explore diverse animal exhibits and beautiful landscapes. It’s a fantastic escape for animal lovers, offering a glimpse into conservation efforts while enjoying the great outdoors.

✨ Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo - And don’t forget, November 3rd this Sunday is the final day of the enchanting Boston Lights exhibit at the zoo. This mesmerizing light display transforms the park into a magical wonderland, featuring stunning installations that illuminate the night.

⛪ Where is this? - Tucked away in the heart of Copley Square, Trinity Church is a stunning hidden gem that often goes unnoticed amidst the hustle and bustle of Boston. This architectural masterpiece, designed by the renowned architect H.H. Richardson, features breathtaking Romanesque design elements and intricate stained glass that tell stories of faith and history. Step inside to discover a serene atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection or simply marveling at the craftsmanship.

🍂 Serenity - Trinity Church offers a peaceful sanctuary right in the city. Whether you're looking for a moment of solitude or seeking inspiration from the beautiful art and architecture, this church is a must-visit. Its welcoming ambiance invites visitors to sit, reflect, or enjoy a moment of stillness away from the city’s noise. Don’t miss the lovely gardens surrounding the church, where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy a bit of nature amid the urban landscape of Newbury St.

🚇 Taking the T - Hop on the T taking the Green Line to Copley!

🌉 Where is this? - Nestled just across from the Museum of Science, North Point Park is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered by young adults seeking a refreshing escape. This vibrant oasis invites visitors to stroll along scenic paths, offering plenty of space to unwind and soak in the beautiful views of the Zakim Bridge and the Boston skyline. With lush grassy areas perfect for lounging, and inviting walking and biking trails, it's an ideal spot for a laid-back afternoon or a picnic with friends.

🍁 Rest and relaxation - North Point Park is easily accessible and well worth the visit. While parking can be limited, the park’s charm and lively atmosphere make the journey worthwhile. So grab some snacks, bring a friend, and enjoy the blend of urban design and natural beauty in this delightful escape!

😍 Taking the T - If you’re on the Orange Line, simply hop off at Community College and enjoy a 10-minute walk to the park. Alternatively, if you’re traveling on the Green Line, get off at Science Park/West End on the E/D train and walk for 10 minutes.

🧊 Enter Through the Fridge - To access the Bodega sneaker store, you literally step through a fridge. This quirky entrance sets the stage for an unexpected experience. Upon entering, shoppers are greeted by a charming bodega in the front, but as they venture to the back, they discover a sleek sneaker paradise.

💈 A Sneaker Store Like No Other - You'll be pleasantly surprised by how impressive the sneaker shop area is. The sneaker selection is top-notch, featuring exclusive kicks from brands like Nike and New Balance, along with stylish clothing and iconic pieces that are hard to find elsewhere.

😍 Perfectly Sized - While the sneaker store isn’t enormous, it’s perfectly sized for a curated experience. You won’t feel overwhelmed; instead, you’ll be excited by what you may find. Each corner holds something special, whether it’s a fresh pair of kicks or apparel from local designers showcasing Boston’s urban culture.

Next time you're walking down Mass Ave, Bodega is a must-visit to elevate your sneaker game while enjoying a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

🌃 Seven-story views - Apex Rooftop Bar delivers a top-shelf experience from start to finish, featuring signature cocktails that impress at every turn.Guests are greeted by vibrant house music and a friendly, accommodating staff as soon as they step off the elevator. This intimate space offers breathtaking seven-story views of the Boston skyline, making it a must-visit destination. Securing a seat by the windows—whether at a high-top table or the bar—is highly recommended for those looking to enjoy the stunning vistas.

🤫 Lowkey and underrated - The drink menu is both diverse and unique, catering to a wide range of tastes, and it most importantly won't break the bank. This spot also offers live music and karaoke. Adding to its distinctive atmosphere, the lounge is situated above a cannabis dispensary, enhancing the overall vibe. For any Boston local, Apex Rooftop Bar is a hidden gem that should not be missed!

👻 The Ghost of Dr. Harris - The Boston Athenaeum is famous not only for its extensive literary collection but also for its ghostly residents. In 1842, author Nathanael Hawthorne encountered the ghost of Dr. Thaddeus Mason Harris while reading in the library. Initially unaware that Harris had passed away, Hawthorne mistook the sighting for a living man. After several encounters with Dr. Harris reading peacefully, he learned of the reverend's death, yet the ghost continued to appear. Ultimately, Dr. Harris gave Hawthorne a sorrowful death stare before vanishing the following day.

📕 Human Skin Book - Adding to the library's eerie allure is the infamous skin-bound book created by James Allen, a convict who wished to immortalize his story in an unsettling way. Diagnosed with tuberculosis, Allen instructed that his memoir be bound in his own skin following his death. This memoir made of Allen's flesh is displayed on the 1st floor of the Athenaeum.

🪦 A Historical Site - The Boston Athenaeum was founded in 1807 and is one of America’s oldest independent libraries. Now a National Historic Landmark, the Athenaeum's proximity to the Granary Park Burying Ground—a site known for its haunting tales—only enhances its reputation as a sanctuary where history and the supernatural intertwine.

🍿 How have I never heard of this? - Nestled in the heart of Brookline, Coolidge Corner Theatre stands as a beloved beacon for film lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Established in 1933, this historic venue has transitioned from a church to a vibrant community hub that celebrates the magic of storytelling through film. Recently, it has gained international recognition, earning the 30th spot on Time Out's “50 Most Beautiful Cinemas in the World.”

🎥 A majestic cinema experience - Inside the hall, moviegoers are greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere. The neon-lined, Art Deco-inspired marquee ushers visitors into one of its four screening rooms, with the largest hall seating 432 guests. You can't beat the vintage luxury of red curtains, plush velvet chairs, dark wood paneling, golden accents, and a stunning ceiling mural.

🎬 Unique programming for movie lovers - This theatre showcases a mix of new releases, independent features, and classic revivals, often hosting special screenings and film festivals that spotlight local filmmakers. For late-night movie-loving insomniacs, the “Coolidge After Midnite” series screens horror, weird, camp, avant-garde, and cult films, frequently projected from 35mm prints.

🕵🏼 From Jail to Jewls - Originally built in 1851, the Charles Street Jail was notorious for housing some of Boston's most infamous inmates. Over the years, the jail earned a reputation for its grim and unlivable conditions forcing inmates to relocate. in 1990, the facility was bought out and transformed into the now luxurious Liberty Hotel.

🏫 Keeping the Architecture - The Liberty Hotel has retained the haunting elements of the former prison, including its iconic granite exterior, preserved catwalks, and original jail cells, which have been transformed into stylish suites. The hotel’s design blends historical significance with contemporary luxury.

🍷 Enjoy as a Local - You don't have to be a guest to enjoy The Liberty Hotel. Stop by the renowned Liberty Bar, located in the former jail’s old sally port, offering a unique setting for enjoying cocktails and light bites. You can also check out the other 3 restaurants in the hotel!

Sick of Tatte, Cafe Nero, and all of the other generic study spots?

😋 What do I get for $18?  - The Shy Bird branch in South Boston is offering all-you-can-drink coffee, espresso, and tea + a breakfast or lunch item in their new Work From Shy Bird menu. With a variety of dietary options, this is a great deal if you're looking for a new spot to try and want to camp out for your work day!

📓 Included amenities - The best part is that Shy Bird is offering FREE printing, office supplies, whiteboards, second screens, chargers, dongles, and Video Call friendly quiet areas.

🚊 Taking the T - Take the red line to Broadway and it's a 5 minute walk!

Get the convenience of an office, with the comfort of a coffee shop to elevate your work or study experience!

My knees hurt just learning about this...

🏃‍➡️ Climb 1147 stadium seats - Hundreds of Bostonians conquer the steps at the Harvard Stadium every Wednesday morning! As a part of November Project's mission to make fitness accessible to all, this weekly stair workout is completely free.

😵 Who came up with this though? - November Project is a free fitness movement that was born in Boston as a way to stay in shape during cold New England months. Now present in multiple cities, this community motivates and encourages people of all ages, shapes, sizes and fitness levels to get moving. So if you're a professional athlete or a recent couch potato, kick-off your fitness journey with this challenge!

😅 What to expect at this workout - There are 4 types of workouts that you can get involved in which range from a full tour of all the steps, 50 sections as fast as possible, 35 minutes to conquer as many steps as possible, or 100 sections as fast as possible. Basically, there's something for everyone - so just show up and have a good time in a challenging environment!

Get ready for an adrenaline-packed adventure day just a 45 minutes drive from Boston in Berlin, MA at Boundless Adventures! 🏞️

⛰️ Swing into action - With 9 high ropes courses, over 90 rope bridges, 16 ziplines, and 3 leaps of faith, this aerial park is a thrill-seeker’s paradise! Whether you’re swinging, climbing, or zipping through the treetops, there’s something for everyone with 4 different difficulty levels - making it the perfect weekend adventure for you and your buddies! 👯

🎉 Want to climb at night? - Mark your calendar for August 24th! The adventure park is hosting a Beach-themed night climb party! 🏖️ Dress in your best beach attire and groove to summer hits while you take on the rope courses! 👙

💸 How much tho? - Prices range from $50-$70, depending on peak/non-peak hours and reservation timing. An advanced reservation will save you some money!

🚗 Don't have a car? - Unfortunately taking the T would take over 3 hours to get to this park, so plan a field trip with your friends and rent a car to make a whole day out of it!

Get ready for a unique adventure that’ll have you swinging from the trees all night!

Get ready to shrink down and relive the magic of the 90s in the most adorable way possible! Polly Pocket’s iconic home has been reimagined into a 42-foot-tall wonderland waiting for you to explore! 🌟

The attention to detail is impressive - This larger-than-life Polly Pocket compact is a nostalgic trip back in time, featuring everything from retro furniture and vibrant clothes to playful accessories and classic snacks. 🍭🧸

What can you do at this stay-cay - You can try-on the collection of 90s-themed clothing and accessories. Indulge in a selection of retro treats that will transport your taste buds back to the good old days. Make friendship bracelets and snuggle up among cozy pillows for a movie night in the lounge. ❤️🍿

Book my stay - This magical compact is available for just three one-night stays from September 12-14, 2024, at $89 per guest. Airbnb is also offering 21 exclusive experiences from September 16 to October 6, with up to 12 guests per session. 🛌

Prepare for a blast from the past that’s big on fun and tiny on size—Polly Pocket’s home is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss! 🌈💖

A Sanctuary Cafe is a cafe and bookstore that just opened its door, and cat doors, to the Boston public!

🐱 Me-wow! - The cafe is partially open, with the bookstore and bakery open for customers, but petting area closed. As the cats continue to acclimate to their new home, you can still enjoy the cute kitty views through the enormous front window and interior window walls! Stay updated with when you can reserve a time to play with the cats by checking out their website ❤️🐈

For any cat-lover, this is the perfect cozy weekend spot to curl up and unwind with a spicy chai latte, macaroons, a nice book, and a nicer kitty!

Wednesday to Friday: 10am to 7pm

Weekend: 10am to 4pm

Closed Monday & Tuesday

Wally’s Jazz Cafe in is one of Boston's oldest jazz clubs. Open seven nights a week, charges no cover, and offers live music 365 days a year. You've probably walked by this spot multiple times and never realized what's inside!

🎶 Tell me more - A hole in the wall jazz bar known as a “training ground” for celebrated jazz musicians, Wally’s hosts resident bands who play numerous jazz styles each night (including Jazz, Funk, and Latin-Jazz). They also give students from Berklee College of Music a chance to show off their skills.

It's a totally unique small venue made for enjoying great music in an intimate historic setting. Don't miss it!

This summer, Spectacle Island is staying open for an after-hours experience - an evening of relaxation, fun, and music in partnership with Night Shift Brewing & ZaZ Restaurant.

🏝️ Island vibes - Take an evening trip to Spectacle Island to enjoy live music, lawn games, hiking trails with breathtaking sunset views, swimming, and island vibing! You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages, or indulge in food and drink for purchase from Night Shift Brewing & Zaz Restaurant.

🎟️ What's the catch? - This after-hours experience + round trip ferry will cost you $39 per ticket.

Blue Hills Reservation is a 7,000-acre oasis perfect for hiking, swimming, canoeing, and picnicking. This summer, all 22 hills are covered in green and give you an insane view of the Boston skyline. For us Bostonians, finding the perfect hiking location can be tough! But, this spot is conveniently located at 725 Hillside St, Milton. 🥾👙

Also: don't miss the opportunity to take a swim in Houghton’s 24-acre Pond from now until September 2nd (Labor Day). This swimming area is open daily from 10am to 6pm.

🚘 Driving there - About 30 minutes away from Boston, visitor parking is available at the Houghton’s Pond Recreation Area, 840 Hillside St. Parking lots close at 8pm unless otherwise noted.

🚊 Taking the T - Take the Providence/Stoughton Line Commuter from Back Bay to Route 128 . It takes about 40 minutes and includes a 25-minute walk from the station to Blue Hills Reservation.

A FREE skating rink just opened up in Kendall Common, Cambridge. While your there you can also enjoy a stunning 7,000-square-foot mural by Boston artist Massiel Grullón, featuring retro shapes and a vibrant color palette. Alongside various food and drink vendors and community spaces to enjoy this summer weather! ☀️🍉

Free skating rink timing and hours:

• Wednesday to Sunday, starting June 28th through September 29th
• Wednesday to Friday: 2pm to 8pm
• Weekend: 11am to 8pm

If you're looking for a break from the city, Walden Pond in Concord is the perfect spot to embrace nature.

The famous line "I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately..." comes from Henry David Thoreau's book "Walden" which was written in a secluded cabin in the woods of Walden Pond. Like Thoreau's experience, Walden Pond invites you to step away from city life and transcend into embracing the natural environment.

• Aim to pull into Walden Pond State Reservation’s parking lot at 9 am. Even a minute later on a weekend and the lot will be full. It takes about 30 minutes to get there from the city by car!
• If you're taking the T, get on the Commuter from North Station to Lincoln and order a 10-minute Uber to Walden Pond
• Check out the park’s visitor center for a quick history lesson before walking the two-mile loop around the pond, stopping to inspect the site where Thoreau’s cabin once stood!
• Enjoy the rest of your day relaxing by the water and exploring Concord!

Feel like diving into American history this weekend? 🗺️ We got you covered with your visit to Charlestown Navy Yard, one of Boston's historical site.

Charlestown Navy Yard was one of the oldest shipbuilding facilities in the United States Navy established in 1801. It's now home to the USS Constitution Museum and docked USS Constitution, also know as the "Old Ironsides" - a ship that was able to live through its time at war. 🛳️

The Marriott Boston Customs House (aka The Boston Clock Tower) is actually one of the city’s very first skyscrapers. It was the tallest building in Boston from 1915 to 1965. This iconic 492-foot structure has been a central part of the Boston skyline for over 100 years. 

But did you know there is an observation deck on the 26th-floor? 🏙️

The view is breath-taking! The top of the tower is open & accessible to the public during limited hours. A fenced-in area surrounds the deck showing all sides of the city. 🌆

• The observation deck is only open once daily: 2pm, 6 days a week not including Fridays and weather permitting
• Registration is required 48 hours in advance by calling 617-310-6300 (x4 - front desk)
• Only up to 8 people allowed per reservation
• No back packs are allowed

Centered on the north slope of Beacon Hill, the African American community of 1800s Boston led the city and the nation in fight against slavery and injustice. These Beacon Hill residents and activists were leaders in the Abolition Movement, the Underground Railroad, the Civil War, and the early struggle for equal rights and education. 💼

Black Heritage Trail 👞

1.5 mile long trail linking sites that explore the trials of the free black community from the late 1700s through the 1800s

• Self-guided: Anytime
• Ranger-led tours: May 25 to October 1 | Wed to Sun, 10am and 1pm

Museum of African American History 🗣️

Located in the former Abiel Smith School, allows visitors to further enrich their understanding of Boston's Black History

• Everyday except Monday | 10am - 4pm

Last year, a viral video showed a Boston police officer violently shooting down a slide at City Hall Plaza. Since then, the slide became so wildly popular with Boston adults that officials put a fence up at night to stop adults from shooting down.

Now, a whole year later, officials have stopped fencing up the slide at night, which means you can finally give the "Boston Cop Slide" a ride..if you dare. Please note there are signs posted at the playground warning that the slide is intended for children ages 5-12 and isn’t meant for adults.

The tall ship is a 245-foot vessel turned oyster bar permanently docked on Pier One in East Boston. ⚓️ This ship has 3 custom built mahogany bars and gives you the best view of the city skyline and harbor. 🏙️

This is the perfect spot for seafood-lovers as the ship offers fresh local oysters and shellfish, as well as charcuterie boards. 🍤 You can spend your time here dancing, playing games, and enjoying live entertainment. 🪩 You can also watch the Celtics and Bruins games here!

Hours:

Monday to Thursday | 4pm-11pm

Friday to Sunday | 11am-11pm

This Boston treasure hides under the steps of Longfellow Bridge at the furthest end on Cambridge side, it's a hall of fame decorated with Bostonian trophies and medals lines the underway walls. 🥇

A community project that started in 2014, has transformed into a proud presentation of the success of hundreds of Bostonians. 🏆 Here, you can find everything from Boston Marathon medals to 2-foot tall Baseball State Champion Awards!

This is Boston's enormous, three-story tall, inside-out glass globe built in 1935. It's a unique depiction of the planet that gives Bostonians a rare chance to see the world in a way that doesn’t distort the surface of the Earth and instead view the real relative sizes of each continent. 🔭

Interestingly, when you stand at the center of the perfect sphere, you can hear your voice in full 360-degree surround sound. 📣 The curved glass walls do not absorb the sound waves, but reflect them back, letting you hear every whisper. 🤫

This 2-bedroom 1-bath home was built in 1890, and is famously known as "The Skinny House" for measuring at only 10-feet wide!

The legend goes that two brothers inherited the land during the Civil War. One brother went away to fight and came home to find that the other brother had built a house bigger than his share of the land. In spite, the returning brother build this home, also known as "The Narrow House" or "The Spite House".

Next time you are in the North End walking along the freedom trail, be sure to check out this hidden gem!

The Christian Science Plaza is springtime staple. This outdoor plaza is completely open to the public, and offers a moment of the tranquility amidst Boston's skyscrapers. 🌇

The reflection pool is the perfect spot for some peaceful contemplation or for enjoying a good book. Picnicking by the water fountain is a fun change of scenery from the classic Boston Commons or Public Garden. ⛲️

The Boston Public Library Courtyard is a hidden oasis. ⛲️

This open courtyard is open throughout the day, and is free to enter. Located inside the Public Library's core, this open space offers a quiet and scenic escape from the busy crowds on Boylston and Newbury Street. 🛍️

This serene gem offers beautiful architecture and a water fountain for you to enjoy while reading a book, having your coffee, or on a shopping break with your friends. You can occasionally find live concerts or local musicians playing here, making each visit a unique experience. 🎻

The courtyard also has the gorgeous Courtyard Tea Room, which offers a quintessential afternoon tea experience. ☕️ Next time you need a moment of relaxation or inspiration, The Boston Public Library Courtyard is the perfect spot.