A Local's Guide on Things to Do in Back Bay

Welcome to the picturesque neighborhood of Back Bay in Boston. Known for its charm, elegance, and historical significance, Back Bay is a delightful destination that effortlessly combines the old-world charm of Victorian architecture with a vibrant contemporary atmosphere. Stroll along the tree-lined streets and be mesmerized by the stunning brownstone buildings that line the sidewalks.

In the mid-19th century, this area was a marshy bay until a massive land reclamation project transformed it into one of the city's most prestigious neighborhoods. The project filled in the bay and created the iconic Victorian-style brownstone buildings that grace the streets today. Back Bay real estate attracted wealthy residents and became a symbol of elegance and refinement. Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving luxury hub, preserving its historical charm while adapting to modern times. Exploring Back Bay's rich past is like stepping back in time and discovering the roots of this vibrant neighborhood.

It’s no wonder that there are so many opportunities for fun and recreation in Back Bay. Let’s look at some of the most popular things to do in Back Bay from a resident’s perspective and find out how many hidden gems await.

Everyone knows about the 24-acre Boston Public Garden, but there are a few more that are worth exploring as well. Back Bay Fens is a 100-acre park just north of the Boston Public Garden. The Fenway Victory Gardens is a seven-acre community garden in the Back Bay Fens. The Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University is a 280-acre botanical garden located just south of the Back Bay and is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Lastly, the Rose Kennedy Greenway is a five-mile linear park that runs through the Back Bay and South End neighborhoods of Boston.

 

While Newbury Street gets most of the attention, Back Bay Boston offers a range of lesser-known shopping areas worth exploring. One of the main thoroughfares, Boylston Street, is lined with an array of shops, restaurants, and bars. The Prudential Center is a large shopping mall with various stores, dining options, and entertainment venues. For a more pedestrian-friendly experience, Charles Street in the neighboring Beacon Hill neighborhood offers a delightful selection of shops, restaurants, and bars. Salem Street welcomes you with its charming Italian atmosphere. SOWA Marketplace in the South End is a historic destination with a vibrant mix of other markets, shops, restaurants, and bars.

 

If bar hopping is your thing, there are a variety of scenes to fit one’s mood. Hidden beneath Faccia a Faccia, Bar Pallino is a nod to Parisian wine bars; it has over 70 wines on offer, including esoteric finds unique to Boston. You can book the bar for special events catered by their upstairs neighbors. Another bar with an old-school vibe is Oak Long Bar + Kitchen. Recently named the city’s best hotel bar, Oak Bar features a farm-to-table menu with plenty of items to enjoy in a setting reminiscent of the Gilded Age. If you enjoy Oak Bar, check out The Wig Shop, a speakeasy-style bar perfect for cocktails and live music.

 

The Museum of Fine Arts should always be your first stop — it contains nearly half a million works of art, making it one of the world’s most extensive museums. You can also find several smaller, lesser-known galleries near Back Bay. Newbury St. is famous for its art galleries set within Victorians; you can view museum-quality pieces and even walk home with your own artwork.

 

Back Bay is bursting with world-class eateries. You don’t have to leave the neighborhood for upscale Greek at Krasi, authentic Italian at Faccia a Faccia, or refined Mexican at Casa Romero. For New American and patio seating, look into Parish Cafe & Bar, a fixture on Boylston Street since 1989. Among other noteworthy Back Bay venues are Contessa, Saltie Girl, and Uni.

 

If you really want to get to know the area, there’s no better way than doing it on foot. Free Tours by Foot offers a variety of walking tours in and around Back Bay, including a historical tour, a shopping tour, and a food tour. The Boston Women's Heritage Trail is a self-guided walking tour focusing on women of the mid-19th and early 20th centuries. Back Bay’s Victorian Architecture celebrates the art and architecture that made Boston famous, such as Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library, and grand Back Bay townhouses. The Back Bay Ghost Tour is perfect for those who like history with a macabre side.

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, Back Bay's warm and welcoming atmosphere will make you feel right at home. Its unique blend of history, beauty, and vibrant energy creates an unforgettable experience for all who wander its charming streets. You’ll never run out of things to do in Back Bay, and all the better if you’re interested in Back Bay real estate.

Living in Back Bay is like being part of a classic tale with a modern twist. The neighborhood's Victorian brownstone buildings exude charm and elegance, while the bustling streets offer a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. With its proximity to renowned cultural institutions, upscale boutiques, and delightful eateries, Back Bay provides a truly convenient and enriching lifestyle.

If you’re ready to make Back Bay your home, you’ll need a knowledgeable, experienced real estate agent in your corner. As consistently ranked “top producers” in the Greater Boston Area, the Miller & Co. Team are your go-to experts for making your Back Bay dreams come true. Reach out today to get started.