Welcome to Back Bay
This iconic Boston neighborhood is loaded with historic charm and bustling commercial centers
Perhaps Boston’s most iconic neighborhood, Back Bay bursts with history, sophistication, and upscale residential charm. Nestled along the Charles River, Back Bay offers picturesque views, urban centers perfect for day-long shopping excursions, and more history in one place than anywhere in New England. If you’re searching for the perfect place that expertly blends history, charm, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Back Bay is for you.
Rows and rows of Victorian homes cascade down the tree-lined streets from the 1800s, and with hundreds of acres of pristine parks and green spaces to explore, Bay Bay is an iconic Boston neighborhood, offering something for everyone. Architecturally speaking, it’s one of the best destinations in the United States to observe classic Victorian structures (like the Boston Public Library, founded in 1848) and is now home to these classic buildings intertwined with newly constructed skyscrapers. Back Bay is a centrally located neighborhood bursting with culture, dining, and educational opportunities.
What to Love
- The stunning architecture found throughout the neighborhood
- Shopping on Newbury Street
- Strolls through the Public Garden
- Walks/Runs along The Esplanade
Local Lifestyle
Residents of Back Bay appreciate urban pockets intermingled with intricate residential spaces. From new apartments lining the Newbury Street shopping center to centuries-old Victorian homes, Back Bay has an architectural style to meet your needs. Whether you’re more cosmopolitan and seek a busy lifestyle near the vibrant nightlife scene, or you’d prefer a single-family home along a tree-lined street, Back Bay has just the place for you. Don’t worry about finding things to do, as this Boston neighborhood is loaded with amenities and opportunities — from big-name events at the Prudential Center to classical performances at Symphony Hall, you can find an event or festival for all ages.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The Back Bay is peppered with a diverse array of restaurants, pubs, and bars serving cuisines ranging from New England to Nordic. Saltie Girl offers creative New England seafood preparations, and Mistral Bistro offers the best French cuisine in the city. If you’re feeling a classic American steak, look no further than Abe & Louie’s for unique flavor combinations and impeccable service. Join their Preferred Guest Loyalty Club for exclusive offers and deals on their best creations.
Stephanie’s on Newbury is the premier destination for casual dining in Back Bay. Serving “sophisticated comfort food” since 1994, Stephanie’s is a can’t-miss spot in the neighborhood for delicious and fresh creations. Italy’s hidden gem is located right in the neighborhood at Sorellina, a fine dining restaurant serving elevated Italian dishes in a warm environment. Craving something sweet? Visit Flour Bakery + Cafe and eat dessert first!
Newbury Street is the place to shop in Back Bay. Lined with high-end boutiques and name-brand designer stores, such as Chanel and Cartier, Newbury Street attracts shoppers of all ages. This mile-long shopper’s paradise is also home to several independent businesses and eclectic Bohemian boutiques. Trident Booksellers & Cafe is one of the last remaining independent shops on Newbury Street's western end. Copley Place is another popular destination for shopping and dining and often features special events throughout the month.
Things to Do
Back Bay features architectural marvels, trendy restaurants and bars, upscale shops and boutiques, and outstanding art museums and galleries to explore. You name it, Back Bay has it. Visit the Boston Public Garden, located next to Boston Common, to explore the gorgeous flora and fauna and take a stroll along the 64-acre Charles River Esplanade on a beautiful afternoon.
If you’re looking for entertainment opportunities, don’t miss an all-star event at The Hatch Shell, an outdoor concert venue on The Charles River Esplanade known for hosting The Boston Pops 4th of July concert. If you’d like something a bit more subdued but no less interesting or exciting, make sure to get a library card at the renowned Boston Public Library, which hosts everything from preschool storytimes to visits with New York Times bestselling authors.
