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Sunday, May 3, 2026

12 things to know before going to Boston - Lonely Planet Travel News

Here’s the scene: I’m visiting my future husband’s family in Boston for the first time. His mother asks if I want a tonic. It seems like an odd offer, but it sounds refreshing so I accept. Then she brings me an orange soda. What?

You’ve probably guessed that tonic is the word for soda in Bostonese – just one of many quirky regionalisms that still permeate the local dialect. Now, after nearly 25 years of living here, I think I’ve finally got them down, and I’ve learned a few other things too.

From navigating the city streets to navigating the social dynamics, here are the top tips and tricks to know before you go to Boston.

1. From April to October, book ahead – for almost everything

If you’re traveling to Boston during the high season you will quickly discover you are not the only one. To find a decent selection of seats and prices for events, buy your tickets to the theater or the Red Sox (or any professional sporting event) at least a month in advance.

You’ll also do well to purchase advance tickets for the most popular museums, especially the New England Aquarium. Buying just a day or two ahead of time will guarantee your admission and save you the hassle of waiting in line upon arrival.

If you have your heart set on eating at a particular restaurant, try to reserve your table a week or two before, especially for a weekend night. Some of the hottest restaurants in Boston may require reservations several months in advance.

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