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Bring your friends to these quirky spots in Boston

Take your friend-dates to the next level at these in-the-know places around town.

JQ Louise
Hayley Domin
Edited by
JQ Louise
Written by:
Hayley Domin
Mapparium, Sights and attractions, Boston
Photograph: Mark ThayerMapparium
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While Boston is known for its history and charm, the city also has some funk. Whether you’re in the mood for a unique dining experience, an unusual museum or a hidden speakeasy, there are lots of cool places to go, you just need to know where to look. Grab a friend and follow this list of quirky things to do around Boston right now. 

Go to a ping pong bar 

SPIN ping pong
Photograph: Courtesy SPIN

Located in the Seaport, SPIN Boston is an interactive playground for adults. Grab a paddle, rent a ping pong table with your group and enjoy full food and drinks service. There are also other options for those looking to relax, including giant UNO and adult-sized connect four. (Did we mention there’s also a full bar and a bathtub filled with ping pong balls?)

See the site of an unsolved art heist 

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum courtyard mums
Photograph: Ally Schmaling, courtesy Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is magical garden oasis on the outskirts of the Fenway neighborhood; a true city-escape. Filled with various art pieces throughout its three floors, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a must-visit. While the monumental art collection and impressive courtyard of plants and florals are a draw, this museum is world-famous for another reason. In 1990, 13 pieces of art were stolen, making the Isabella Gardner Museum home to one of the largest unsolved art-mysteries.

Drink inside a wig shop

Boston has some fun speakeasy bars scattered throughout town. One new comer to the scene, Wig Shop, in Downtown Boston has become a hotspot for both locals and tourists alike. With old mannequins and wigs adorning the exterior window, you’d never guess there was a hidden speakeasy behind the doors. Once inside, the vibe is dark, mystifying, and intimate. You’ll find yourself in a classy space with gloomy lighting and hanging curtains. Transport yourself back to the prohibition era, as your bartender whips up an otherworldly concoction.

Enjoy hot pot on a ferris wheel 

Starfoods
Photograph: Courtesy Starfoods

Okay, so you won’t actually be on a ferris wheel, but your food will be! Starfoods in Newton Centre serves hotpot and shabu-shabu with a playful twist. Sizzling broth is placed on a small stove at the counter, as toppings rotate past on mini ferris wheels. The restaurant has taken interactive dining to a whole new level.

Stroll through a stain glass globe

Inside the Mary Baker Eddy Museum sits a three-story tall, stained-glass globe. Unchanged since its completion in 1935, this is an experience in Boston you won’t want to miss. Illuminated by LED lights, walk the bridge to the other side and immerse yourself in a dome filled with enlarged countries and colors. Enjoy the ‘whispering effect’ as your voice is heard from one side of the globe to the other. 

And if you are still looking for some cool places to impress your friends, check out our whole list of the best secret spots in Boston. 

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