Boston On the Cheap: Up High
Boston has always had a reputation for being a really expensive city. According to this poll it is the third most expensive city to visit in the United States! So, how are people supposed to visit this great city without breaking the bank? Here are a few tips from some locals:
Want to get up high and see the city from a unique perspective? There are many places in Boston that offer wonderful views of the city and its surroundings without taxing your wallet. The Bunker Hill Monument is one of those places where you can see the city from height for free. Located in Charlestown near the Charlestown Navy Yard, the monument gives visitors the opportunity to get a bird’s-eye-view of the city while also also providing a history lesson about The Battle of Bunker Hill. The monument is free to enter and climb. There is no elevator in the monument and it can be closed for weather or renovations, but it is great if you want a workout with your view.
Conveniently located near Faneuil Hall, The Customs House is another historic venue that allows people to check out the entire city. For just $5 (which goes to the Children’s Miracle Network), you are able to get up to the 26th floor and get a great view of Faneuil Hall and the Boston Harbor. Keep in mind that you can go up promptly at 2 pm or between 6 and 7:30 pm everyday except Friday. There are several garages nearby, and it is an easy walk to the blue line, do you can get anywhere in the city very easily.
The Intercontinental Hotel on Boston’s waterfront also allows people to experience spectacular views of the city. You can travel to the free observation deck on the fourteenth floor of the hotel to see Fort Point Channel. You will need to check in at the front desk and let them know you would like to go to the fourteenth floor. The hotel is located between downtown Boston and the restaurants and shops on the South Boston waterfront, so you can easily work a trip to the observation deck into a day in the city.
Next time, cheap or free tours of the city.
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10 thoughts on “Boston On the Cheap: Up High”
Wow, we have been living in Boston for a while now and amazed to know about Customs House and Intercontinental Hotel (guessing you do not necessarily have to dine or make any sort of reservations at the hotel- right?). Noted mentally nevertheless 🙂
Besides, have you been to Mt. Auburn Cemetery? Plan a visit (especially in the Fall) and climb up the Washington Tower for some spectacular views.
Nope! You can walk into the Intercontinental at (I think) any time. The Customs house is a lot more specific in their timing.
I have been up the Washington Tower, it is a beautiful place! I want to go back to try and find their owls and other awesome animals.
Always great to hear about how to experience great cities affordably. I love visiting bars with a high view.
Well, if you would like a drink with a view, you should check out the Top of the Hub at the Prudential Building. Drinks can be slightly expensive, but you get an amazing view. They also have a Sky walk observatory on the floor below it, costs around $20.
Love that these tips give a unique city perspective and that they are free or quite reasonable. We haven’t been to Boston yet but I really want to visit.
Sometimes you have to dig around to find the affordable stuff, but they really add a lot to your visit! Hope you get to visit Boston soon…it is a great city to wander through! 🙂
Third most expensive city – well, that’s not very inviting 🙂
Nope! But at least we aren’t #1? 😉
We will be featuring more free and cheap things to do in the area…what are you interested in?
I can’t believe this…. the last time we were in Boston, we stayed at Intercon and didn’t know about 14/f:( Thanks for the tip… I’ll keep this in mind:) xoxo
OH NO! Guess you’ll just have to come back, then, huh? 😉