Now that winter boot and mitten season is over, it’s time to dust off the flip-flops from their hiding place under your bed and head for the great outdoors! One of the more surprising characteristics about our fair city is how incredibly easy it is to get around on your own two feet, especially when you consider our notorious reputation for being a not-so-great place to drive. And the best part about strolling in Beantown is that you really never know what you might stumble across. Coming in at a compact 48 square miles, Boston proper was recently named the #2 best walking city in America! We asked our concierge staff to weigh in on their favorite places to stroll….

5.) Beacon Hill: From the golden dome of the State House to the elegant homes of Louisburg Square, a walk through one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city can be quite relaxing.  The historic collection of Federal and Greek revival row houses was once home to some of Boston’s most elite members of society. Charles Street is a great starting and ending point for this walk as it has plenty to offer for dining options.

4.) Newbury Street: Considered by some to be the heart of the Back Bay, Newbury Street is lined with outdoor cafes, quirky and high end shops, and fun art galleries. Start on the Arlington Street end and meander your way towards Hereford Street; feel free to people-watch to your heart’s content along the way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

3) Public Garden: Since it was created in 1837, the Public Garden remains a favorite spot for strolling and enjoying gorgeous spring time weather. The plants used in bedding-out the Public Garden are grown in the Boston Parks and Recreation Department’s greenhouses. Over 80 species of plants are cultivated there for future plantings in the Garden and more than 50 other locations around the city.

 

 

 2) Charles River: Take the Arthur Fiedler Foot Bridge over busy Storrow Drive and wander down the Esplanade towards the Hatch Shell, where the Boston Pops give their famous Fourth of July performance. You’ll be hugging the shores of the Charles River, and soaking in a great view of the sky line, surrounded by trees and forgetting you’re in the middle of the city.

 

1.) The Freedom Trail: Beginning in the Boston Common, the red-painted and brick-marked trail weaves through Quincy Market and the North End, all the way over to Charlestown.  Seventeen brass markers along the two and a half mile route indicate historic sites along the way.

And if it rains? Hey, our Westin WORKOUT is open 24/7 to get that heart rate pumping! What are you most looking forward to doing outside now that spring has sprung?