Boston is one of those cities that feels like it was designed for a perfect weekend. History at every corner, world-class museums, championship sports, incredible food, and some of the most walkable, beautiful urban streets in the country. And when you base yourself at The Eliot Hotel on Commonwealth Avenue, every one of Boston's best experiences is practically at your doorstep.
Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for the tenth, this guide covers the best things to do near The Eliot Hotel — from morning walks to late-night dinners.
Commonwealth Avenue — the tree-lined boulevard where The Eliot has stood since 1925 — is itself one of Boston's great pleasures. A morning walk along the mall or a stroll to the Public Garden (where Swan Boats glide in season and the famous Make Way for Ducklings sculpture stands) sets a tone for the day that is hard to beat.
Newbury Street is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Boston's most celebrated shopping and dining corridor, it is lined with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants that range from casual to Michelin-worthy. Even if you are not shopping, it is worth a walk.
Boston Common & The Freedom Trail
The oldest public park in the United States is the starting point of the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking path through 16 historic sites including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere's House, and the Old North Church.
Fenway Park
Home of the Boston Red Sox and one of the most iconic sports venues in the world. The stadium dates to 1912, and whether you catch a game or take one of the guided tours, it is a bucket-list experience. The Eliot is one of the best-located hotels near Fenway Park in all of Boston.
Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)
One of the world's great art museums, with nearly 500,000 works across art, architecture, and culture. The Eliot offers a dedicated Museum of Fine Arts Package that includes VIP MFA access, overnight accommodations, and breakfast at UNI.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Designed after a 15th-century Venetian palace, this museum houses over 2,500 pieces of art collected personally by its founder. The garden courtyard alone is worth the trip.
New England Aquarium
A favorite for families, the Aquarium's 187,000-gallon tank is home to hundreds of species and a living coral reef. It has been a leader in marine conservation since 1969.
Institute of Contemporary Art
For lovers of modern and contemporary art, the ICA on Boston's Waterfront offers both permanent and rotating exhibitions that push boundaries in the best possible way.
For Families Traveling with Kids
Boston is exceptional for families. Beyond Fenway and the Aquarium, consider:
- Museum of Science — 400+ interactive exhibits, a planetarium, IMAX, and over 100 live animals
- Boston Children's Museum — Over a century of engaging children in discovery
- TD Garden — Home of the Celtics (NBA) and Bruins (NHL) for sports-loving families
The Eliot's spacious one- and two-bedroom suites are purpose-built for family travel, with separate living rooms and sleeper sofas.
The Eliot Hotel is one of Boston's best-located accommodations for university visitors. We are:
- Walking distance to Berklee College of Music
- Under 1 mile from Boston University and Northeastern
- Minutes from MIT, Simmons, and a short commute to Harvard
Whether you are visiting for a campus tour, a graduation weekend, or a parents' weekend, The Eliot offers personalized service, spacious accommodations, and a central location that makes navigating the city effortless.
You do not need a car to explore Boston from The Eliot. The Hynes Convention Center MBTA Green Line stop is one block away, connecting you to the entire city. The hotel is also one block from the #1 bus to Harvard Square. For convenience, valet parking is available at the hotel for $65 per 24 hours.
However you spend your days in Boston, end them well. UNI Restaurant, right in The Eliot lobby, is one of the best dining experiences in the city — James Beard Award-winning cuisine in a warm, social setting. Whether it is dinner, cocktails, or room service back in your suite, the food here matches the level of the city you came to explore.
Book your Boston stay at eliothotel.com or call 617-267-1607.
The Eliot Hotel | 370 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215