Looking to explore neighborhoods in Boston? East Boston is a really cool neighborhood – whether you’re looking for the best restaurants in east boston, restaurants in east boston, things to do in east boston, east boston bars, or just things to do in boston – we got you covered!
Top Things To Do in East Boston “Eastie”
Check out the Madonna Queen of the Universe Shrine
Not only is the shrine impressive itself, but you can also view spectacular views of Boston and nearby Logan Airport. Founded by the Don Orione Fathers in 1954, the statue stands 35 feet tall and is carved in bronze and copper. It was actually created by an Italian-Jewish sculptor Arrigo Minerbi who escaped the Nazis with the help of the Don Orione.
Hang Out at Constitution Beach (“Shays Beach”)
In the Harbor View – Orient Heights neighborhood, this no-frills beach offers a really cool view of planes taking off and landing from Logan. In season, you can also enjoy the snack bar and kids playground to indoor skating rink.
Piers Park and the Eastie docks
When the royal couple (Will and Kate) visited Boston in 2023, they made a visit here to Piers Park. Much more beautifully landscaped than Constitution Beach, Piers Park has a 600 foot pedestrian boardwalk with an amphitheater, playground, and multiple smaller pavilions. You can see the city skyline as well.
Try a Flight at Downeast Cider
Unfortunately, they have suspended tours due to production capacity growth, but they do offer one flight per guest inside their taproom. It was founded by three Bates College graduates who have a somewhat irreverent attitude. If you’re in the area, it could be fun to check them out or return a growler.
Check out the incredibly diverse food scene
We are starting an East Boston Food Tour – but we can tell you that some of our favorites include: Santarpio’s, Angela’s Cafe, Rincon Limeno, Taqueria Jalisco, KO Pies, Helado, Tawkal Halal Cafe, Pueblo Viejo, the list goes on…
Soak in the sun at Bremen Street Park
Purchased by MassPort as part of the Big Dig, this park separates residential East Boston from the airport and is a linear park that’s at the site of an abandoned railroad. There are some cool community events that happen here, a dog park, fountain, and a sliver of green space.
We visit cool places on our Food and Chocolate Tours. Check our tour calendar for more information on booking a tour.
Pickup sports at LoPresti Park (“North Ferry Park”)
Boston is known for its sports, and that extends past professional sports to the random pick-up game. This four-acre park has multiple basketball courts, a hockey rink, artificial turf soccer field, waterfront fishing, and even kayaking. But if you’re not in the mood, you can just stroll along the pier and look at the Boston city skyline. It’s a quick walk from Maverick T station. You can also walk along the harbor to Skyline Monument and try to get a photo with a sailboat against the skyline.
Try a pie at Santarpio’s (bring cash)
Still owned and operated by the Santarpio’s family, this location was originally a bakery back in 1903. You can see the sign from the airport. They serve Boston-style pizza, if you’re interested in what that is — and they mostly serve pizza!
Tall Ship – An Evening Out
No, not the Tall ships. The Tall Ship is actually a 245 foot long vessel which is now a floating oyster bar that is moored on Pier One. Originally supposed to be in Charlestown, it was set up in East Boston and has everything from pop-up events to food trucks to live entertainment.
Take the Area Ferry
East Boston now has its own ferry station that goes to the Seaport. If you’re looking at all of those water views and want to get out on the water, they do have a limited schedule but for only $5 you can pop over to the other side! The Seaport has delicious restaurants too.
Enjoy the ride,
Lizzie and Sam