Back Bay neighborhood guide

The Back Bay's unique mix of affluent residential streets, high end shopping and eclectic dining options make it one of Boston’s most visitor-friendly areas. This centrally located neighborhood not only also contains some of the city’s most important architectural sights, it's also the Hub's main shopping destination; you’ll find everything from global mega-chains and small indie shops to cutting-edge designer boutiques. But it wasn’t always so —less than 200 years ago, the entire area, from the Public Garden to the Fens, was submerged in swampland; a massive landfill project to meet the needs of a population surge made the area what it is now—one of Boston most desirable areas. Once you’ve had your fill of the Back Bay, find more to do by checking out our guides to the best restaurants in Boston, best live music in Boston and best museums in Boston. 

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