Boston, Massachusetts, as such, needs no introduction as it is well-known because of its educational institutions and sports culture, which attracts tourists and visitors not only from the US but also from around the world.
However, despite being such a famous spot, there is a side of Boston that many haven’t heard of. In this guide, I’ve listed below indoor and outdoor hidden gems in Boston, MA, along with restaurants that deserve much more recognition than they truly get.
Table of Contents
Indoor Hidden Gems in Boston, MA
1. Gibson House Museum
Location: 137 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02116
The first indoor hidden gem in Boston, MA, on this list is the Gibson House Museum. This place might not be on every tourist’s radar, but those who like to learn about historical figures and places will surely love visiting this museum.
This historic townhouse once belonged to the wealthy Gibson family, who were prominent figures in 19th-century Boston. It was built in 1859, and this brownstone mansion is a rare example of Victorian-era architecture that has been preserved with remarkable authenticity. Today, it operates as a museum and offers a rare view of upper-class life during the late 19th and early 20th century.
Apart from the architecture, as you go inside, you will see the furnishing preserved just like it used to be. With that, you will also learn a great deal about the family and their significant contributions to Boston’s development. Overall, it’s going to be a very informative tour.
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2. The Sports Museum
Location: TD Garden, 100 Legends Way, Boston, MA 02114
There is no doubt that sports and Boston go hand in hand. Still, the Sports Museum, located inside the TD Garden (home to the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins), often goes unnoticed by tourists, despite being such a cool place to visit in Boston, regardless of whether you are a sports fan or not.
By visiting this museum, you will got to know about the victories and stories that have made Boston a sports capital. Along with that, you will also see numerous exhibits and iconic memorabilia, including players’ jerseys, trophies, pictures, videos, and most importantly, a field tour, which makes visiting this place even more special.
This is the type of place people of every age enjoy visiting, because it’s not boring at any point, and everything is unique here.
3. Nichols House Museum
Location: 55 Mt Vernon St, Boston, MA 02108
Another house museum for the history enthusiast in Boston is the Nichols House Museum. The mansion was built in the early 1800s but is named after Rose Standish Nichols, who lived here between 1885 and 1960, and after her death, this house has been used as a museum to showcase the lifestyle of the elite-class Americans during the 19th and 20th centuries.
As you go inside, you will see the jaw-dropping furniture, mostly made of wood. Take your time and explore each room, appreciate the fine details, and along the way, you will learn a lot about Nichols as well. Apart from the furniture, the paintings inside are also the prominent showpieces.
Among the paintings, you will see everything, from colonial era paintings to 20th century portraiture, European paintings, and Japanese woodblock prints. Not to forget the sculptures, which are also a favorite part of many visitors.
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4. USS Cassin Young
Location: 793 3rd St, Boston, MA 02129
As part of the National Park Service’s Boston National Historical Park, the USS Cassin Young gave an insight about the role of the US Navy during World War II. This Fletcher-class destroyer has been preserved as a museum ship and is now a tribute to the brave men and women who served aboard her.
The ship was commissioned in 1943 and played a critical role in naval operations during the Pacific Theater of World War II and was part of the fleet that helped secure victories in some of the most intense battles of the war.
This museum ship enables you to explore both the physical space and the history of a vessel that participated in major combat operations. As you go aboard, you will get a chance to learn about the life of sailors who lived and worked on the ship during some of the most pivotal moments in American history. It will be a very interesting and knowledgeable tour, which will surely catch the attention of everyone.
5. SoWa Art + Design District
Location: 450 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118
The last indoor off-the-beaten-path destination in Boston on this list is SoWa Art + Design District, which is one of the best places to visit in Boston if you are an art enthusiast and like visiting art galleries to see various forms of art.
This neighborhood has a diverse range of art galleries, studios, restaurants, and a market, offering a wide selection of goods. Starting with the art, almost all the pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry, are made by local artists and are also quite affordable.
This neighborhood is most active on the weekends, especially Sundays, when almost every shop remains open.
Outdoor Hidden Gems in Boston, MA
6. Harambee Park
Location: 930 Blue Hill Ave, Boston, MA 02124
The first outdoor hidden gem in Boston on this list is Harambee Park. This place is often overlooked for more green spaces in the city. Still, this underrated park is worth a visit, especially if you have children with you.
Because it is a public park, in the evening you will see a lot of locals visiting this place with their kids. If you wanted to visit a place away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Harambee Park offers that peaceful time in the greenery, which is embraced by many locals.
On top of that, there is a playground for children, as well as tennis and basketball courts. Benches are also available if you don’t like to sit on the grass.
7. Charlestown Navy Yard Ferry Terminal
Location: 4 Constellation Wharf, Boston, MA 02129
For a fun outdoor experience, the Charlestown Navy Yard Ferry Terminal is one of the underrated places in Boston. It is one of the oldest and most historically significant naval facilities in the United States.
If you are someone who likes ferry rides and wants to navigate the seaside of Boston, you will love this place. Here, you will also see the USS Cassin Young ship, which we mentioned earlier. This ferry terminal connects visitors to Boston Harbor and provides access to downtown Boston, Long Wharf, and other waterfront areas that most visitors love visiting.
Overall, this is going to be a very fun experience and surely deserves a visit, because ferry rides are one of the best things to do in Boston.
8. Commonwealth Avenue Mall
Location: 484 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02116
One of Boston’s best-kept secrets is Commonwealth Avenue Mall. This place’s main highlight is the wide, tree-lined area with walking paths, green grass, and impressive statues built alongside.
This place was designed to enhance the aesthetic and community experience of the area. And now, this place is perfect for those who want a peaceful place to spend the evening after visiting different tourist spots in the morning and afternoon. Additionally, it’s an ideal place for a morning and evening jog as well.
There are benches for you to sit on, grass on the side, and a well-maintained walking path, which makes it a perfect place to visit.
9. Paul Revere Mall
Location: 370 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113
A historical place in the context of American history, the Paul Revere Mall is one of the feel-good places of Boston. Not only is the peaceful beauty of the place attractive, but the historical context also draws locals here.
This place is just a short walk away from the iconic Old North Church, where Revere’s famous lantern signal was displayed to alert colonial patriots of the British army’s approach. This pedestrian-only park, which spans about one block, is bordered by Cross Street and Salem Street, which makes it an important part of the Freedom Trail, Boston’s historic walking route that traces the events of the American Revolution.
Just like the Commonwealth Avenue Mall, this place is also perfect for jogging and walking, especially in the evening, with the benches available and trees on the side, which makes the moment of visiting this place quite special. Not only that, but there is also a statue of Paul Revere, which is the primary photography spot in this location.
10. Boston Light
Location: Little Brewster Island, Boston, MA
The last outdoor underrated spot to visit in Boston on this list is Boston Light, which is located on Boston Harbor. This lighthouse is considered the oldest in America, having been built in 1716, and carries enormous historical significance.
Over the years, this lighthouse has undergone several renovations to maintain its stability. As you go there, you can either take guided tours to explore the lighthouse or can visit on your own. From the top, you will be see the stunning views of Boston Harbor, the city skyline, and the nearby islands, which makes visiting this place worth it.
Hidden Gem Restaurants in Boston, MA
11. Chickadee
Location: 21 Drydock Ave, Boston, MA 02210
The first Boston hidden gem restaurant in this list is Chickadee. This is a must-visit restaurant for those who like Mediterranean food. Starting with the interior, you’ll surely love the classic minimalist design theme of this restaurant, which, along with the paintings on the wall and various decorative items, makes the place look even more special.
The seating area is also comfortable with enough open space on the side, and not to forget the tree pots, which were my personal favorite part of the interior decor.
Regarding the food, you will find a good variety on the menu. Their primary speciality here is the Rohan duck three ways, which is genuinely amazing and will be one of the best things you can ever eat.
Along with that, their menu also has options like smoked trout roast, lobster benedict, chicken pita, spaghetti carbonara, grilled asparagus fattoush, fried chicken, swordfish, ribeye, and a wide range of pasta and dessert items.
12. Terramia Ristorante
Location: 98 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113
Next on our list is for Italian food lovers. Terramia Ristorante is among the best when it comes to Boston’s hidden gem restaurants. Starting with the vibe inside, it has that mixed classic American and European interior, which made the atmosphere quite cozy and romantic at the same time, which I really liked personally.
Since it’s not a large restaurant in terms of size, the seating space inside may be less comfortable for some. However, what I really like is that they have seating arrangements outside, which is a major plus. When it comes to food, this restaurant is a haven for vegans as well; their vegan options are genuinely among the best in town.
Among other notable items on the menu are scallops, lobster fritters, meatballs, eggplant rolls, arancini, linguine with clams, ravioli, spaghetti, pappardelle in Bolognese Style, along with various lamb, chicken, rib, and salmon options. And not to forget the dessert options like Tiramisu, bread pudding, and vegan ice cream.
13. Mo’Rockin Fusion
Location: 100 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02108
Mo’Rockin Fusion is one of the best Boston hidden gem restaurants when it comes to Moroccan food. When it comes to the interior, there isn’t anything that’s special inside, but it’s what most local restaurants look like.
Their real game lies in the food. The restaurant is known for offering big portion sizes. The menu has limited options, but everything is top-class. Here, you will find Mo’Rockin Style Chicken, beef tagine, sweet lamb, and tofu options, all served with rice. They also have special options.
They also offer special platters with the names of the king, queen, sultan, and prince. Each bowl has one side and one protein, and you can sauce it up however you like. On the side option, they also offer options like jalapeno chickpeas, mixed beans, sweet corn, and salad.
14. Kala Thai Cookery
Location: 151 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02109
For Asian food lovers in Boston, Kala Thai Cookery is a must-visit restaurant. The restaurant has a very clean and cozy vibe inside. The place is well-decorated on the inside, which is very eye-pleasing. There are also various small lighting and tree pots, which made the overall interior quite comfy.
On the menu, you are going to see a wide range of traditional Thai options, like green curry, red curry, parang curry, along with fried, stir-fried rice, and a variety of noodle options. They also offer corn cakes, tacos, crispy rolls, shrimp, chicken wings, dumplings, and a range of different soups.
15. Arya Trattoria
Location: 253 Hanover St # 2, Boston, MA 02113
The last underrated restaurant in Boston in this list is Arya Trattoria. Another Italian restaurant that you should definitely check out whenever you are in Boston. The restaurant has a nice interior on the inside and offers comfortable seating options, along with the decorated walls, which make the overall experience quite comforting.
On the menu, you are going to have different Italian options, with my personal favorite being their signature Arya pasta, which I personally feel is a must-try dish in Arya Trattoria. Along with that, they also offer calamari, meatballs, lamb chops, truffle Caesar salad, arugula salad, and different chicken, rib, and seafood options.
FAQ’s
1. What is the prettiest place in Boston?
Ideally, the Boston Public Garden is the prettiest place in Boston.
2. What is the number one thing to see in Boston?
Fenway Park is the number one thing to see in Boston.
3. What is the best time to visit Boston?
June to October is considered the ideal time to visit Boston.
4. Is it safe to walk downtown Boston at night?
Yes, downtown Boston is generally very safe to walk around at night.
5. What is the most photographed spot in Boston?
Boston Public Garden, Fenway Park, and Old North Church are ideally the most photographed spots in Boston.
