Boston on a Budget

As one of the largest cities in the Northeast, Boston can be pretty expensive. There are lots of cheap or free options for entertainment though, it's just a matter of finding them. As a native New Englander, I have lots of ideas for reasonably priced ways to enjoy our beautiful, historic city. To take full advantage of everything Boston has to offer, try to visit when the weather is nice, so you can walk outside and enjoy the history and culture.

1Web-3819003648_4684601b9d_z
Hotel Indigo Newton Riverside
Okay, so it's not really a budget hotel. But, the Hotel Indigo is outside of Boston, so it's cheaper than most hotels in the city. You can walk next door to the MBTA (Boston's public transportation system) to easily get into Boston. Plus, the hotel's outdoor pool is a destination within itself.
2Web-4380913915_0ac111d965_z
No Name Restaurant
This place is so no frills it doesn't even have a sign (or a name). After a long time with no name, it eventually became the "No Name". But ask any local (and cab drivers) where to find it, and you can easily get there. The food is excellent, and won't set you back much.
The Boston Common is world-famous, and it's completely free to walk through.
3Web-2786040424_9a6bda7e74
Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail, a 2.5 mile walking trail, is a must-do for first-time tourists to Boston. It takes you by 16 different historic sites, including the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, and the Bunker Hill Monument. While some of these attractions do require a fee, the walk to completely free!
4Web-2978360981_6809555018_z
Boston Common
The Boston Common is world-famous, and it's completely free to walk through. It's gorgeous in any season, but you can picnic in warm weather, and ice skate in the winter (a fee applies for this).
5Web-367930471_2484c60420_z
Boston Public Garden
See the famous Make Way for Duckling statue, and take a ride on the swan boats (not open in the winter). The Boston Public Garden abuts the Boston Common, and is right in the center of the city (accessible via public transportation).
Run, bike, rollerblade, or take a walk on this famous walkway by the Charles River.
6Web-2202206549_91c6a3f612_z
Charles River Esplanade
In the summer, concerts are hosted at the Hatch Shell, including the very popular Boston Pops Concert on the 4th of July. Run, bike, rollerblade, or take a walk on this famous walkway by the Charles River. More
In the summer, concerts are hosted at the Hatch Shell, including the very popular Boston Pops Concert on the 4th of July. Run, bike, rollerblade, or take a walk on this famous walkway by the Charles River.
Map View Hide Map

About the Author

Jodi Grundig
Jodi Grundig
Member of the 2009 Walt Disney World Moms Panel! I'm a former corporate employee turned part-time stay at home mom. I have a young boy and a girl, and I still try to make some time for myself. Trying to do everything takes a lot of effort, and I don't always succeed, but I have fun trying!
Websitefacebook.com/jodigrundig
More Lists by Jodi Grundig
×

© 2006 - 2012 Uptake Networks, Inc.

Uptake

Get the best tips and advice by discovering which of your friends have been to Boston, and also reach our helpful and experienced Uptake travel community. Sign in!

×
Uptake

Did you know that your Internet Explorer is out of date?


To get the best possible experience using our website we recommend that you upgrade to a newer version.

Close