Tired of feeling like you live within a two-mile span that’s Comm. Ave.? Hop on the T and expand your horizons. From artsy coffee shops to views of the city that make the 26th floor of Stuvi 2 look comical, you’ll change your entire outlook on Boston. Trust me, there’s plenty to see.
1. Black Ink — 5 Brattle St. and 101 Charles St.
Green line to Park Street, Red line to Harvard Square Station; Green line to Park Street, Red line to Charles/MGH Stop
For lovers of great design and useful knick-knacks, this is the spot for you. Though it’s small and sometimes goes unnoticed, Black Ink is a store in which you could easily spend an hour. From Bento boxes to city guides, to notebooks of all shapes and sizes, it’s the perfect place to get a unique gift for someone who doesn’t want another sweater.
2. Beacon Hill Chocolates — 91 Charles St.
Green line to Park Street, Red line to Charles/MGH Stop
No one is safe from indulging her sweet tooth upon entering this chocolate Mecca. Choose from cases filled with traditional turtle clusters to more creative chocolate animals and musical instruments. But if artisanal chocolate isn’t your thing, get a delicious scoop of gelato (I’m partial to the Forest Fruit) or pick out a couple macaroons, freshly delivered every Thursday.
3. Thinking Cup — 165 Tremont St.
Green line to Boylston Station
It’s rare to find a coffee shop that a) serves good coffee and good food, b) is not swarming with tourists, and c) has an atmosphere that entices you to stay for hours. At Thinking Cup, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is whether to get a sandwich or pastry (I say both).
4. Skywalk Observatory — 800 Boylston St.
Green line T to Copley Station
Though it’s mainly a tourist destination, I guarantee you’ll learn something new about Boston no matter how many years you’ve lived here. Located on the 52nd floor of Prudential Tower, the observatory offers jaw-dropping 360° views of the city and a wealth of (actually) interesting trivia. Go in the early afternoon on a sunny day to see well past the harbor, or go at night and appreciate the brightly lit skyline.