Hidden Gems in Boston
TOP OFF THE BEATEN PATH PLACES
Get MORE out of your summer in Boston aboard the iconic Old Town Trolley and see the best first!
One of the most popular vacation destinations in the USA, Boston offers visitors an abundance of history, art, music, dining and cultural attractions. But for many, it’s the lesser known spots and points of interest that draw their attention, the less touristy places that provide totally unique Boston experiences. Check out these hidden gems in and around the city on your next trip.
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Restrooms Museum of Bad Art
Founded in 1993, the MOBA is the only museum of its kind and has been delighting guests since its first exhibition that was held in a private home in Boston. Today, the museum has two galleries and provides a view to some of the worst art you’ve ever seen. Each piece was created by artists who may or may not have talent, but have somehow gone awry or are just freely expressing themselves. This museum is not only unique, it’s entertaining and a favorite among Boston’s hidden gems.
Gondola Rides
You’ll feel as if you’ve actually landed in Venice when you board one of the private Gondolas on the Charles River in Boston. Each vessel was built in Venice, Italy and offers a unique experience. Enjoy a romantic evening on the Charles River as your gondolier leads the gondola across the water with the Boston skyline in the distance.
“It’s the lesser known spots and points of interest that draw their attention, the less touristy places that provide totally unique Boston experiences”
Indoor Rock Climbing
Spend the afternoon perfecting your rock climbing skills in the awesome 25,000 square foot Brooklyn Boulders indoor rock climbing gym. There’s room for everyone to test their skills and just have fun! There’s a lounge area with video games, an art galley and a yoga studio too.
Jamaica Plain
A cool, laid-back and eclectic Boston neighborhood, Jamaica Plain is lesser known than some of the other popular areas like Beacon Hill, the Back Bay and the North End, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Check out the array of galleries, cafes and shops. Grab some sandwiches and have a picnic at Jamaica Pond.
The Skinniest House in the USA
Measuring only 10 feet wide by 30 feet deep, this four-story house is still the skinniest in the USA. It’s so skinny that if you walk by too fast you might just miss it! Located at 44 Hull Street in the North End, according to historians, it was built just after the Civil War. Be sure to check it out and take a few pictures; but do be aware, people actually live there.
Lobsta Mickey
Created by local Boston artist Breanna Rowlette, this 6-foot tall Mickey Mouse sits at the Faneuil Hall Marketplace. The statue was created in celebration of Disney’s 75th anniversary and is designed to represent the city’s love of seafood and the New England accent – Lobsta Mickey has lobster claws and is red, just like its real life counterpart!
How Do You See the World? experience with the Mapparium™ globe
Explore stories about global progress—how individuals worldwide have overcome challenges and found hope. The space encourages you to reflect on this question while visiting the interactive exhibits, including the Mapparium™ globe (a three-story, stained-glass globe with a thirty-foot glass bridge passing through the center and a light and sound show that encourages visitors to consider the world from new perspectives.)
