Watch CBS News

See Boston's Best In 24 Hours

Boston may be a small city, but there are plenty of things to do here. So fitting the best activities into just 24 hours can be tough. Boston is one of the most beautiful, historic cities in the country and has great food, museums and culture. On a short trip to the city, here are the absolute musts.
North Street Grille
(Image Credit: North Street Grille)

North Street Grille
229 North Street
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 720-2010
www.northstreetgrille.com

Start the day with the hands down best breakfast in town. The North Street Grille in Boston's North End is known for its extensive menu with creative dishes such as apple and brie stuffed French toast or lobster eggs Benedict. It serves bloody marys and mimosas by the carafe, making this a great spot to stop with a friend or larger group. For those planning to eat here on the weekend, make sure to arrive early because, though the restaurant doesn't stop serving brunch until 3 p.m., this spot is loved by locals who start lining up outside the door around 10 a.m.

Harborwalk
Atlantic St.
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 482-1722
www.bostonharborwalk.com

After an indulgent breakfast, re-energize with a walk along Boston's scenic Harborwalk. The Harborwalk starts at the piers in the North End and continues past Christopher Columbus Park and behind the New England Aquarium, where you may be able to catch a glimpse of the seals that live in the outdoor tanks. Along the Harborwalk, tourists can expect picturesque sea views of sailboats and of not-so-far-away East Boston. This is also a great way to catch a quick glimpse of Boston's downtown and trendy seaport district.

Sam Lagrassa's
(Image Credit: Sam Lagrassa's)

Sam LaGrassa's
44 Province Street
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 357-6861
www.samlagrassas.com

If the 24-hour period you are spending in Boston happens to fall on a weekday, you absolutely must head to Boston's financial district and order a hot sandwich from Sam LaGrassa's. This hidden gem is a favorite of workday warriors because the takeout venue isn't even open on the weekends. Here you will find the city's best Ruebens, Rachels and roast beef sandwiches. Make sure to be hungry - these sandwiches are huge! And don't be off-put by the seemingly dingy exterior of Sam LaGrassa's, it truly serves the best lunch around.

Related: Boston's Best Places for a Manicure

Harvard Art Museums
(Image Credit: Harvard Art Museums)

Harvard Art Museums
32 Quincy Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 495-9400
www.harvardartmuseums.org

The newly renovated Harvard Art Museums are a great way to spend an afternoon in Boston. In a new contemporary building, Harvard's world class art collections feature many great works by masters from around the globe. 2015's special exhibitions feature Mark Rothko, Rebecca Horn, Durer and ancient bronzes from the Mediterranean. Check the Harvard Museum website for special performances and lectures that may be happening the week of your visit. This museum, since it is the fusion of three formerly separate museums, is huge, and can easily entertain art lovers and enthusiasts for hours.

Brick & Mortar
(Image Credit: Brick & Mortar)

Brick and Mortar
567 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
(617) 491-0016
www.brickandmortarbar.com

Cap off a good day in Boston with a drink in one of the area's trendiest bars. Brick and Mortar is a speakeasy-style gem in Cambridge's Central Square that features locally brewed beers and local spirits. People that aren't from New England will appreciate the exposed brick and classic pub-style feel with a modern twist. The clientele at Brick and Mortar is typical young, urban creatives or students and it is a great place to strike up conversation and meet new people.

Related: Boston's Best Locally Made Beauty Products 

Cameron Bruns is the founder of BostonGreenBlog.com and co-author of Just Us Gals Boston. She lives in Boston's North End, where her goal is to promote ethical, stylish, and sustainable lifestyle choices to all Boston residents. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.