Back Bay

The Basics

Back Bay is one of Boston’s most affluent residential, commercial, and leisure neighborhoods. Within an easy stroll, the enclave offers visitors the chance to admire impressive 19th- and 20th-century architecture, enjoy cosmopolitan eateries, and wander avenues lined with Back Bay’s trademark Victorian-era brownstone homes. Aside from these residential streets, popular draws include Boston Public Library, Trinity Church, Boston Public Garden, and Copley Place mall.

While it’s easy to explore Back Bay independently, a tour lets you dig deeper into its sights with a guide for added insight. Time-crunched travelers can choose tours that combine Back Bay with tourist sites such as the Freedom Trail, or private tours that let them select it as one of the attractions they want to see in a day. Otherwise, discover it on a city bike tour, explore it by pedicab, or focus on its architecture and popular wine cellars on a wine tasting tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Back Bay will appeal to history, architecture, shopping, and culinary aficionados.
• Most of the area is accessible to stroller and wheelchair users.
• Book a tour to uncover particular aspects of the bay, such as its brownstones or its wine and food scene.

How to Get There

Bounded by the Charles River to the north, Copley Place to the south, and Boston Public Park and Charlesgate Park to the east and west, Back Bay centers on Boylston Street, Newbury Street, and Copley Square. Get here by Boston’s “T” system; taking the Orange or Green subway to stops including Copley, Boylston, Prudential, and Back Bay. Heavy traffic makes driving difficult, but there are paid garages available.

When to Get There

There’s no particularly good or bad time to visit Back Bay. Summer is perfect for meandering roads such as Newbury Street, as are the evenings, when the area’s restaurants and bars come alive. Shoppers can roam Copley Place mall—typical opening hours are 10am-8pm—while sightseers can enjoy attractions such as Boston Public Library and Boston Public Garden, which are open daily.

The Backstory on Back Bay

Just 200 years ago, Back Bay consisted of the Charles River’s tidal flats. During the 1800s, the land was reclaimed and turned into a grid of Parisian-style avenues flanked by terraced brownstone mansions. These sturdy Victorian-period houses are now considered some of the US’ best examples of 19th-century urban design.

What is Boston Back Bay known for?

One of Boston’s most affluent and upscale districts, this storied enclave has been called one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the United States. It’s known for high-end designer boutiques along swanky Newbury Street, elegant Victorian brownstones perched in a row, and top-notch food joints serving modern takes on iconic New England seafood.

Why is Boston Back Bay’s Newbury Street so famous?

Some say it’s because of the high concentration of fancy shops, including Marc Jacobs and Chanel. It’s true; this shopping street gives off an air of lofty exclusivity. But more than that, it’s famous for being so pretty: Newbury Street gives Beacon Hill a run for its money in historic Boston charm.

Is Boston Back Bay pedestrian-friendly?

Yes, you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere in the neighborhood you can’t reach on foot. Many parts of Boston are a walker’s paradise. If you’re headed further afield, Back Bay conveniently has its own commuter rail and subway stop—Back Bay Station. It’s also easy to find taxis or rideshares.

How can I spend a day in Boston Back Bay?

Stroll around, and feel free to wander—Back Bay’s grid streets make it virtually impossible to get lost. Explore the pedestrian-only mall on Commonwealth Avenue and walk through the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States. Save time for a little retail therapy along Newbury Street.

What shouldn’t I miss in Boston Back Bay?

History buffs shouldn’t miss walking part of the Freedom Trail, a historical itinerary that begins in Boston Common. The route stretches 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) and might take you the better part of a day (it ends at the Bunker Hill Monument in Charleston), but you can follow part of the self-guided tour.

Is Boston Back Bay expensive?

That depends. Back Bay is a pricey area, but coming here for a few hours (or even a few days) doesn’t have to break the bank. While the neighborhood is best known for its fine dining and luxury retailers, you’ll also find a mix of budget-friendly cafés, eateries, and local boutiques.