These 18 Incredible Places in Boston Will Drop Your Jaw To The Floor

With its historic architecture, water views, and plentiful parks, Boston is a gorgeous city. But it’s easy to become blasé to sights we see on a regular basis. If you slow down a little and really absorb your surroundings, you might be surprised by all the natural and manmade beauty you pass each day. Next time you want to reignite your love for Boston, head to these 18 stunning spots throughout the city:

1. Acorn Street

Despite being only a block long, Acorn Street oozes charm. Cobblestones, windows framed with shutters, and greenery tumbling out of window boxes - this is what people expect from Beacon Hill.

2. Arnold Arboretum

Just like everything designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Arnold Arboretum is breathtaking. This green space is part of the Emerald Necklace and contains 15,000 plants!

3. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

The water views along with the lovely trellis make this little park one that everyone should visit. During the holidays, the trellis is wrapped in lights, adding another dimension to its beauty.

4. Boston Opera House

In 1928, The Boston Globe stated that this opera house was "so magnificent that it kind of takes your breath away for awhile." That assessment is still true today. Inspired by French and Italian architecture, the theatre’s ornate interior makes just as strong an impression as any performance viewed here.

5. Belle Isle Marsh Reservation

Belle Isle is the last salt marsh remaining in Boston. Enjoy the natural beauty of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies at this hidden gem.

6. Boston Public Library

The world’s first free municipal library is visually astounding. It contains an Italian-style courtyard, a marble vestibule, murals, and the photogenic Bates Hall.

7. The Public Garden

The sight of weeping willow fronds dipping into the waters of the lagoon make you feel like you've stepped inside the illustrations of your favorite children's book.

8. Copley Square…

This one square is lined with so many architectural wonders that you can spend hours admiring the buildings.

The Trinity Church, built in 1877, is even more impressive inside than it is outside, which is saying something. Its reflection in the soaring John Hancock Tower adds to the beauty of both buildings.

…in every direction.

Turn in a slow circle to view BPL’s façade and the intricately designed Old South Church.

9. Boston Harbor

Boston's skyline is unparalleled. Take a ferry out into the harbor for a panoramic view you'll never forget.

10. The Harvard campus

Boston is home to many colleges with grand buildings, but the contrast of green trees against the red brick splendor of Harvard always makes an impact. In winter, when snow dusts the grounds, the university is enchanting.

11. Zakim Bridge

The Zakim Bridge proves that functional structures can also be magnificent. The harp-style support system makes this Boston icon appear most dramatic at night.

12. Newbury Street

The Back Bay at its best, Newbury Street’s brownstones provide a picturesque venue to shop or take a stroll.

13. The Charles River

Between Boston’s oceans and rivers, we’re spoiled with water views. However, the 80-mile long Charles River is perennially pretty.

14. Christian Science Plaza

Between the reflecting pool and the Mapparium, the First Church of Christian Science is a stunning complex of buildings.

15. Commonwealth Avenue Mall

You don’t expect to find a French-inspired boulevard in Boston, but this mall is a delightful part of Back Bay. The 32-acre area is a popular outdoor space regardless of the season.

16. Church of the Covenant

This Gothic Revival church features stained glass and a 14-foot high lantern, all crafted by Tiffany.

17. Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway

Even when we’re stuck in traffic, glimpses of the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway remind us of the pockets of natural beauty tucked away throughout Boston.

18. The top of the Prudential Center Tower

Whether seen from the Skywalk Observatory or Top of the Hub, this aerial perspective of Boston is mesmerizing.

What places in Boston do you find the most beautiful? Let us know in the comments or on the Only In Boston Facebook page.