Charlie Cards and Tickets are used for public transit in Boston.
Photo courtesy of Mr. T in DC.
One of the most important things to think about when planning a trip is how to get around a city. Luckily for those heading to Boston, the city not only has a great public transportation system but is also walkable and bike-friendly. Because of this, a car is only recommended if you’ll be taking trips outside the city. To help you get around with ease, here is a guide on how to get around in Boston.
Walking
Getting around Boston is easy, especially as it’s a very walkable city. In fact, Walkscore.com rates it as the “3rd most walkable large city in the US,” especially in the Bay Village, Chinatown and Beacon Hill neighborhoods. There is even a program in the city called WalkBoston that aims to make walking safer and more accessible in the city. Neighborhood bars, shops, attractions and restaurants are close together, and there are a variety of designated walking trails like “The Freedom Trail,” “The Emerald Necklace” and the “Irish Heritage Trail,” to name a few. And when your legs get tired, Boston has an excellent public transportation system.
Subway, bus, train and boat
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, called the “T” in Boston, offers subway, bus, train and boat transportation. Their subway system features five lines: The Red Line, Blue Line, Green Line, Orange Line and Silver Line. These can get you all over the city. For example, while the Green Line runs between Lechmere (central/north) and Riverside (west), the Orange Line runs between Oak Grove (north) and Forest Hills (south). Use a CharlieCard to save 50 cents on the fare, making it $2 instead of $2.50. There’s also the CommuterRail which has 11 different lines; the bus which is only a $1.50 with your CharlieCard; and even two boat services, including Inner-harbor Ferries and Commuter Boats.
Cycling
Boston is a very bike-friendly city, especially as the current Mayor Menino is passionate about making the city one of the top biking destinations in the country. Menino’s Boston Bikes initiative has led to cycling programs, a bike share, cycling-focused events, a better infrastructure for bikers and all around a more vibrant biking community. Boston’s New Balance Hubway bike share program is a great way for getting around, as you can easily pick up a bike from one place and leave it near your destination without having to worry about getting it again. The program starts at $5 for a 24-hour membership. You can also opt to do a bike tour of Boston, which allows you experience the city in an active and fun way.
Tours
The easiest way to get around Boston while learning about the sites is to take a tour. There are many great tours in Boston, that include a variety of themes and modes of transportation. Take a Boston sunset cruise, explore Beantown by trolley, go whale watching, do a photography walking tour along the Freedom Trail and more. Best of all, these types of tours require little to no planning on your part, allowing for a stress-free trip.