Walking Tour Of Boston's North End

Boston's North End is one of the most historic and enjoyable neighborhoods to visit in the entire country. The North End is the oldest residential area in Boston and offers many landmarks that are listed on the National Historic Register along with great food, Italian feast days and the charm of a European village. Boston's North End is alternatively known as "Little Italy," and a walk along the cobblestone streets reveals a feast for the senses. Italian restaurants and bistros of every kind are nestled along an area that's less than one square mile. Though the North End is just a small five-block neighborhood, it is packed with 87 Italian restaurants and bakeries. The best bet for a walking tour of this fabled Boston neighborhood is to sample the food along with the culture and history.

The Old North Church 
193 Salem St.
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 523-6676
www.cityofboston.gov

Boston's Old North Church is a must-see landmark in the North End. This is where the patriots of the American Revolution sent out the famous warning signal, "One if by land, and two, if by sea," which led to The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere. Whether you are a history buff or not, a visit to this site should be on your list since it played such an important role in the American Revolution. The Old North Church, a National Historic Landmark, also has the distinction of being the oldest standing church building in Boston. This North End treasure was built in 1723. Tours and other activities are available to the public. Check the website for more information.

Regina Pizzeria 
11 1/2 Thacher St.
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 227-0765
www.pizzeriaregina.com

No tour of the North End would be complete without sampling the Italian cuisine, and one can never go wrong with a stop at an Italian pizzeria. Regina Pizzeria has it all, with a great selection of pizzas, old world ambiance and affordable prices. This pizzeria has been serving up slices since 1926. The menu features 29 different gourmet pizzas, from the classico to the prosciutto con spinaci and more. The folks at Regina's say the secret to the tasty pizza is the 80-year-old recipe for the crust, but you'll just have to find out for yourself.

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park 
Atlantic Ave. & Richmond St.
Boston, MA 02109
(617) 635-4505 
www.bostonharborwalk.com

Though the North End is a compact neighborhood of crowded cobblestone streets, visitors can still find some greenery and a place to sit and people-watch with lovely views of Boston Harbor. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park features green lawns, a spray fountain and a performance area where local musicians often provide entertainment. A statue of the park's namesake Christopher Columbus is noteworthy. The wisteria-covered trellis of this pretty park gives visitors some shade during the day and also offers special lighting during the holiday season. The park is a jewel of Boston's North End and is a great place to chill out and enjoy the harbor and a snack.

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Mike's Pastry & Modern Pastry

Speaking of snacks, after enjoying a pizza at Regina's, one must have dessert. And since the North End boasts two (or three if you count Maria's) of the best pastry shops around, why not hit both.

Mike's Pastry
300 Hanover St.
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 742-3050
www.mike'spastry.com

Mike's Pastry is a family-run business that has gained worldwide popularity for Italian pastries of all kinds. If you visit on a weekend night, be prepared for long lines, but Mike's is worth the wait. From biscotti to cannoli and more, Mike's has it all. Mike has been baking for 50 years, and his expertise is evident in the Italian delights he serves, which are all created with fresh ingredients. For those on a date with a special someone, a visit to Mike's will surely impress and is a memorable treat.

Modern Pastry
257 Hanover Street
Boston, MA 02113
617.523.3783
www.modernpastry.com

Modern Pastry is also on Hanover Street, and can easily be found by the line out the door. There are so many pastries to choose from, including pies, cakes, brownies, cookies, cannolis… you name it, and Modern probably has it. The line is long, but moves pretty fast, so be sure you spend some time thinking about what you want, so you can order right away when you reach the counter.

Paul Revere House
19 N. Square
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 523-2338 
www.paulreverehouse.org

For those seeking a little more history, a visit to the Paul Revere House, Boston's oldest building, is in order. The legend of Revere's famed midnight ride will forever live in American history books. Revere owned the home for more than three decades, beginning in the the late 1600s. This is a good place for children, families and school groups to visit. Visitors can take a tour of this historic home. Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children. Tours are available seven days a week until 5 p.m.

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