Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s most historic and picturesque neighborhoods, known for its charming cobblestone streets, gas-lit lamps, and Federal-style row houses. It has been home to many famous names over the centuries, including (but not limited to): Louisa May Alcott, Robert Frost, Henry David Thoreau, Lewis Hayden, Oliver Wendell Holes, John Hancock, Robert Gould Shaw and yes, even David Lee Roth! Beacon Hill is divided into three sections: the South Slope, North Slope, and Flat of the Hill. The South Slope, closest to the Massachusetts State House, has traditionally been home to Boston’s brahmins. The North Slope, historically a more diverse area, was an important center for Boston’s free Black community in the 19th century and played a crucial role in the abolitionist movement. The Flat of the Hill, near the Charles River, is a small, affluent section with a mix of residential and commercial spaces. If you would like a peek into Victorian life, I highly recommend the Nichols House Museum, located at 55 Mount Vernon Street. It was built by the legendary architect, Charles Bulfinch in 1804 and ultimately bought and maintained by Rose Standish Nichols, a pioneering landscape designer, writer, and advocate for women's rights and world peace. Upon her death, she left the house as a museum, which opened in 1961, preserving the Nichols family legacy and the home’s historic furnishings. You also MUST do at least some, if not all, of the Black Heritage Trail. As I tend to say on my tours, there are just so many amazing, individual stories of heroism, dedication, and determination woven throughout the self-guided, walking tour. As often as I can, I also can't recommend enough, the book, Master Slave Husband Wife. The story of William & Ellen Craft (no relation). A great read of a truly, remarkable true story.

Beacon Hill

Welcome to the new part of Boston. By that, of course I mean, the 1850s. To be fair, the Back Bay was "started" in the 1850s and not entirely filled in until 1900. I'll let you know when it's actually "finished". Yup, started as a pretty big body of water which turned into a swampy and very stinky, mess. Which is why they decided to fill it in. Today, it is one of Boston’s most iconic and affluent neighborhoods, known for its Victorian brownstone homes, tree-lined streets, luxury shopping, and cultural landmarks. It begins at Arlington Street (which borders the Public Garden) and ends at Massachusetts Ave, to the west. It's also bordered by the Charles River on one side over to Columbus Ave. on the other side. OMG, there's just so much to do in the Back Bay, it'll be hard to list them all. Let's start with some fun, free (or, close to free) stuff. Like how about a walk (or picnic) on our scenic waterfront park along the Charles River, the Esplanade? During the summer months, maybe you can take in a concert at the historic, Hatch Shell? That's where the Boston Pops play every 4th of July. If you wanna good seat for that, put your lawn chair down and stay there on June 28th:) Next up, Copley Square. As we like to say here in Boston, it's GAWJIS! Copley Sq itself is beautiful. Or, at least it was and it should be again whenever they finish the darn construction! The Library is amazing, and free. Check it out, there's even a little bar in there, you're welcome! The Trinity Church will cost you $10 for adults and is open Wednesday thru Saturday 10-5. Absolutely worth the price of admission. The Old South Church (my fav) is an odd duck. They don't really "do tours". I know, a shame. But, from what I'm told, if it's open, you can go in and look around. Staying with the "free" vibe, how about checking out the Boston Marathon Finish line at 655 Boylston Street? Or, of course, there's the Boston Public Garden. Free to take in all the beauty and splendor of the pants, trees, flowers and footbridges but you will have to drop $4 big ones if you'd like a Swan Boat ride. And, you should. While there, see if you can find the 'Good Will Hunting' bench! Ok, I know, you wanna spend some of that money that's burning a hole in your pocket. Back Bay has you covered. Shopping anyone? Literally, hundreds of shops all willing to take your green and/or plastic. Prudential Center Mall, Copley Mall and Newbury Street are the Big 3. Newbury is often ranked as one of the most expensive streets...in the world!

The Back Bay

Know more. Do more.

Crafty's Eats: Love, love, love, The Paramount Deli. Nothing fancy, just good food for breakfast or lunch on beautiful, Charles Street. Also, on Charles, The Sevens Pub. Ok, I've never "eaten" there, but it is a very cool pub! Lastly, Emmets Pub. What? An Irish pub in Boston? I know, right? But good food & atmosphere 7 days a week but the kicker is their weekend brunch with live Irish music. You're welcome!

Crafty's Eats: So, being on the pricier side, Crafty does not eat much in Back Bay:( That, and it's mostly chain restaurants (yuck). However, there is one I LOVE. Fogo de Chao, located inside the Westin Hotel. Brazilian Steakhouse yumminess and actually reasonable for what you get. I also like to highlight, Burdick's Chocolate on Clarendon St. Hey, chocolate is a food, it counts! No, seriously, one of the best....especially hot and in liquid form;) And honorable mention to LaVoile on Newbury St. Vous etes les bienvenus!

These pages are designed in hopes to give you a general lay of the land. I try to stay away from talking about the bigger attractions and focus more on the "lesser known" things and the "FREE STUFF". I hope you find it useful. -Crafty