Boston Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

MBTA mTicket:
Purchase Commuter Rail and Ferry tickets.
Bluebikes:
Access the city's bike-share program.
Google Maps/Apple Maps:
Navigation and public transit directions.
Yelp/OpenTable:
Dining recommendations and reservations.
Uber/Lyft:
Ride-sharing services for longer trips.

Useful Websites

BostonUSA.com:
The official tourism site for Boston.
MBTA.com:
Official public transit information.
Mass.gov/visit-massachusetts:
The state tourism website.
Boston.com:
Local news and event listings.
Weather app:
Monitor Boston's changeable climate.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Lonely Planet Boston, Fodor's Boston, Rick Steves' Boston offer detailed perspectives.

Books About Boston

Explore "Boston: A Topographical History," "Mayflower," "The Bostonians," "Mystic River," or "Make Way for Ducklings."

Local Publications

Boston Magazine covers culture and events; The Boston Globe for daily news; check kiosks for free weekly papers.

Emergency & Medical Information

Critical Contacts

All Emergencies (Police, Fire, Medical): Dial 911.
Non-Emergency Police: Boston Police Department (BPD) 617-343-4200.
Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH): 55 Fruit St, Boston.
Brigham and Women's Hospital: 75 Francis St, Boston.

Traveler Support

Check your country's government site for consulate info.
Lost passport: Contact embassy and BPD immediately.
Natural disaster: Follow local news and authorities.
Consider an Emergency kit for longer stays.

Urgent Information for Travelers

Stay Safe and Informed

Emergency Services

Dial 911 for Police, Fire, or Medical assistance.
Know your location when calling.
Stay calm and follow dispatcher instructions.
Non-emergency police: 617-343-4200.

Health & Well-being

Carry any essential medications with you.
Know the location of nearby hospitals or clinics.
Stay hydrated, especially during summer months.
Do not hesitate to seek medical help if needed.

Security Awareness

Safeguard your valuables; use hotel safes.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Avoid unlit areas or walking alone after dark.
Report suspicious activities to authorities.

Planning for Outdoor Adventures

Parks & Recreation

Explore Boston Common, Public Garden, and Esplanade.
Discover nearby hiking trails or nature reserves.
Bike along the Charles River or Emerald Necklace.

Water Activities

Harbor cruises or ferry trips offer skyline views.
Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Charles River.
Consider whale watching tours from Boston Harbor.

Cultural & Academic Pursuits

Museums & Art

Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) boasts vast collections.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum for unique art and architecture.
Literary walking tours explore famous authors' haunts.

University Life

Tour Harvard or MIT campuses in Cambridge.
Attend a complimentary lecture or public event at an university.
Visit university museums and art galleries.

Exploring Boston's Culinary Scene

Must-Try Local Foods

The Northeastern us states Clam Chowder.
Lobster Rolls (hot with butter or cold with mayo).
Boston Cream Pie.
Cannolis from the North End.
Oysters from local waters.

Dining Experiences

Fine dining in Back Inlet or Seaport District.
Casual eateries and taverns in Beacon Hill.
Italian bakeries and restaurants in the North End.
Food halls at Boston Central Market or Time Out Market.
Farmers markets for fresh, local produce.

Seasonal Activities

Fall Foliage

Witness stunning autumn leaves in parks and nearby countryside drives.

Winter Fun

Skating on ice at Frog Pond or enjoying festive holiday lights.

Summer Events

Live music outdoors, harbor festivals, and baseball games fill the warmer months.

Alert for Travelers

Always keep up-to-date on local regulations and any travel advisories, notably regarding public transportation or specific event access. Your safety comes first.

Digital & Physical Tools

Important Digital Resources

Communication & Navigation Apps

Local SIM / eSIM:
For reliable data and calls throughout your stay.
Offline Maps:
Download city maps for navigation without internet.
Translation App:
Useful for quick expressions and understanding signs.

Planning & Convenience Apps

Event Listings:
Apps for local concerts, festivals, and sports events.
Weather Forecast:
Boston weather changes quickly; stay updated.
Banking App:
Monitor transactions and notify your bank of travel plans.

Social Media & Content

Twitter

Follow @Boston_USA for official tourism updates and @MBTA for real-time transit status.

Instagram

Search #Boston or #VisitBoston for photo inspiration and discover local hotspots.

Podcasts & Local Media

Listen to WBUR for local news or history podcasts featuring Boston's role in the past.

Essential Print Resources

City & Transit Maps

Pick up free city find maps at tourist information centers.
Grab MBTA system maps at major subway stations.
Consider a detailed walking map for specific trails.
Bike path maps for cycling enthusiasts.

Guidebooks & Local Reads

A physical guidebook is a reliable companion.
Bring a book on Boston history to enhance your visits.
Local fiction offers a different view of the city.
Foodie guides help you discover Boston's culinary gems.

Cultural Insights & Learning

Explore Revolutionary War history before your visit.
Learn about Boston's academic traditions.
Research the city's maritime heritage.
Listen to podcasts on Boston's historical figures.

Engaging with the Present

Understand local governance and civic participation.
Discover contemporary art scenes and galleries.
Find out about local music venues and performers.
Seek opportunities to learn about local community initiatives.

Knowledge is Your Best Travel Partner

Taking a bit of time to learn about Boston's past and present will greatly enrich your travel experience. Dive into its stories!

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