by Steven J. Butler

Created on: May 01, 2008   Last Updated: December 09, 2008

Ten Tips For Boston Tourists

As a recently (and happily) returned prodigal son of the "Hub of the Universe," I love showing people around my hometown. After playing tour guide to several out-of-town friends over the past couple of years, here are my ten tips for tourists planning on visiting Boston:

1. Brace yourself for shockingly expensive hotel rooms downtown, but shop around for deals.

Despite a recent hotel building boom, hotel rooms in Boston remain among the most expensive in the U.S. Expect to pay a pretty penny for a perch near the financial district, historic Faneuil Hall marketplace, or in the tony Back Bay. Sure, bargains might appear to be had in outlying suburbs, (note to certain travel reservation websites, nearby cities like Medford, Waltham, or Woburn are not "Boston!") but if you want to fully experience all that Boston has to offer in terms of its cultural offerings, history, great dining and nightlife options, you're going to want to stay someplace downtown. Comparison shop to find good deals, and consider newly-emerging (and non-touristy) neighborhoods like the Seaport District that are slightly out of downtown.

2. Take the T from the airport.

Unless you're traveling on someone else's dime, are in an extra big hurry, or need assistance with lots of heavy luggage, avoid taking a taxi from Logan International Airport. Thanks to laws set up to finance our gleaming convention center, the Massachusetts Port Authority charges taxi passengers $9.75 just for the privilege of sitting down in a taxi at the airport ($5.25 for tolls, a $2.25 "airport fee," and a $2.25 starting meter). A ride into downtown Boston is probably going to run you north of $25, including those fees and a tip for the driver - it'll cost considerably more to get you out near Boston College or across the river to Cambridge. Oh, and if your luggage is really bulky, the driver might charge you an extra $5.

Take the free airport shuttle to the MBTA's blue line subway station where you can catch the Blue Line subway into town for a mere $2. Or, take the new rapid bus "Silver Line" service (also $2) direct from your terminal to Boston's South Station to connect with the Red Line subway, commuter rail, or Amtrak rail service. Save the twenty bucks and buy yourself a local brew or some fried clams (see No. 9 below).

3. Don't rent a car.

Or, rather, don't plan on renting a car for the entire duration of your stay in Boston. This city is notoriously bad for driving with its poor signage

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