Explore Boston on a Budget
Boston is certainly among the US cities known for its high cost of living, which, unfortunately, can lead to expensive travel costs. One of the main challenges is securing affordable accommodation, as hotels are often pricey in this city marked by expensive real estate and busy event schedules.
Fortunately, there are various ways to save money based on when you visit, how you travel, and where you choose to stay and eat. Best of all, it’s easy and affordable to engage in entertaining and educational experiences while visiting historic sites, exploring the city’s outdoor spaces, and enjoying the vibrant student life.
Discover Boston in Winter
While winter in Boston can be cold and gray, it’s a fantastic time to explore. Consider visiting world-class museums or enjoying a delicious plate of pasta in a cozy restaurant. Many of the city’s top attractions are indoors, making them enjoyable throughout the winter months. Notably, hotel prices decrease significantly between November and March, allowing for substantial savings on winter getaways.
Be Mindful of Big Events
Regardless of the season, accommodation prices in Boston can fluctuate dramatically depending on local events. Major happenings, such as the Boston Marathon, crucial Red Sox games, and college graduations, draw visitors from near and far, often resulting in increased costs. Therefore, your budget will benefit if you plan your visit away from these popular times.
Seek Alternative Accommodations
Although Boston’s hotels tend to be on the pricier side, you can find several lower-cost options if you’re willing to compromise on space and privacy. It’s advisable to secure your accommodation well in advance, particularly during peak seasons, as options fill up quickly.
For example, hostels like HI Boston offer dorm beds starting at $60 and private rooms commencing at $225. Located in the theater district, they often organize various outings and free activities for guests. The Oasis Guesthouse, situated on the edge of the Back Bay neighborhood, is popular for its classic Boston brownstone charm and attentive service with shared bathroom rooms from $170 up to en suite choices starting from $250.
Walk This Way
Boston’s downtown area is compact, encompassing many main attractions within a 2-square-mile radius. This connectivity, aided by green spaces and parkways, makes Boston a highly walkable city. In contrast, driving is often frustrating due to complicated navigation, heavy traffic, and limited parking. Therefore, for those looking to explore, it’s best to walk rather than rent a car, saving money while gaining a deeper experience of the city.
Utilize Public Transportation
For further destinations, you can conveniently use Boston’s extensive public transportation system. The subway, known as “the T,” operates from roughly 5 AM to 1 AM, with fares starting at $2.40 for a one-way pass. Additionally, Boston’s bike-share program, BlueBikes, provides another affordable way to move around, with bikes available for $2.95 for a single ride or $10 for a 24-hour pass.
Find Affordable Food Options
Being a college town, Boston has numerous eateries offering budget-friendly, satisfying meals. Environments like the Fenway neighborhood, home to Boston University and other schools, feature many affordable dining options along Peterborough Street. Notable spots include the TimeOut Food Market in the Landmark Center, where you can enjoy diverse meals without overspending.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Don’t miss out on Boston’s ample green spaces that are free to explore. From the stunning blooms in the Public Garden to the trails along the Charles River Esplanade, Boston’s urban spaces provide perfect spots to unwind without spending a dime. You can also visit the Boston Harbor Islands, which, although requiring a ferry fare, offer a fantastic escape for hiking and enjoying nature.
Access High Culture for Low Prices
Boston’s cultural institutions strive to make art and music accessible to all. By researching ahead, you can uncover discounted ticket options or free museum admission on specific days. Locations like the Boston Symphony Orchestra and various art museums often have special pricing, allowing you to enjoy the city’s rich cultural offerings without stretching your wallet.
Daily Costs
- Hostel room – $60-70
- Basic room for two – $150-250
- Self-catering apartment – $200-300
- Ride on the T – $2.40
- Coffee – $4-6
- Lobster roll – $25-35
- Dinner for two – $60-120
- Craft beer – $8
- Average daily cost – $100-$400
