Wander in the Boston Public Library
Let's face it, Boston winters can be harsh. When you need some reprieve from the frosty weather, head to the Boston Public Library! The Central Library (the BPL has 25 branches) is located in Copley Square
and was built in 1895. The inside is absolutely stunning. It's like a mixture of Hogwarts, Harvard and the Sistine Chapel. There is also a gorgeous outdoor courtyard (although this part is better in the Spring than the Winter...but I braved the outdoors so you could have a look at the views!)
How to get there: If you take the Green Line to Copley, the library is directly outside of the MBTA stop, so you barely have to brave the elements to get there!
Traveler Tip: Right next to the library is the Prudential Center which has good shopping and good food if you're hungry!
Check out Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall is classic historical Boston, having been around since 1742 and is now home to over 70 retailers. If you're in a holiday mood, definitely head over and see their Christmas spirit! Although Faneuil Hall is primarily outside, the lights on every tree, and the giant Christmas tree with music timed lights make it worth braving the cold. Also, you can easily hop inside to any of the countless restaurants or shops to warm up a bit. You can taste all the New England specialties (like Lobster rolls, Penuche Fudge, Boston Baked Beans, Clam Chowder and more!)
How to get there: Hop on the Orange Line to the Haymarket Stop to get the closest to the market, but you can also get there from the Green Line by going to the Government Center and walking about 5 minutes.
Traveler Tip: If you really need to warm up, check out Pepper Palace! A shop in Faneuil Hall that has the worlds hottest hot sauce (yes, you have to literally sign a waiver before you eat it) that's sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Drink hard cider at Down East
Down East Cider is a Boston-based company that makes unfiltered hard cider in a variety of alcohol contents and flavors. The flavors change seasonally (and sometimes twice per season!) with winter flavors like: Blackberry Basil, Pumpkin, and Winter: toasted oak chips, cinnamon bark & nutmeg. Their brewery is located in East Boston and you can go hang out there and test their flavors...totally free of charge! You get 5 chips upon arrival and can hand them in to get your small glass filled with all the flavor options they have on tap. While you're there you can also buy cans of your favorite flavors.
How to get there: Take the Blue Line of the MBTA to the Maverick stop. Turn left on Marginal Street and walk 0.5 miles. You will walk down a residential street that then opens up into a bunch of warehouses on the water. Down East will be on your left (with a sign out front to help you find it!)
Traveler Tip: If it's not too chilly out and you want to see a stunning view of Boston, take a turn onto Piers Park Ln (off of Marginal St) and check out the flawless Boston skyline across the water! It's a great view and barely out of your way!
