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Saying “Boston has some really old bars” would be an understatement, possibly by more than a few hundred years.

At 302 years old, the Green Dragon has some serious historical prominence. Pull up to the bar, and enjoy a beer where the Boston Tea Party was planned.

The Bell in Hand Tavern is 221 years old, and is the longest continuously operating tavern in the United States – and was a favorite watering hole of Paul Revere.

It should come then, at no surprise that the oldest restaurant in the USA is also located in Boston. At 190 years old, and just steps away from The Bell in Hand, the Union Oyster House is a must visit for oysters, or if you’re an exiled French king who needs a place to crash for a few years.

Wrapping up our list is Jacob Wirth tavern, where the first Anheiser Busch products were served in the US. This popular bar has been serving one of America’s favorite beers for most of it’s 156 year history.

Your mobile phone will quickly become your most essential travel tool on your next trip to Boston with these travel focused apps.

Skiplagged

Flying in? Boston’s Logan Airport is a major airport, meaning flights pass through every day. If being sure you’re getting the absolute cheapest fare is your priority, Skiplagged can help unlock secret deals on air travel.

Transit App or ProximiT

Boston’s transit can be a super convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Know which subway train to take and when it’s coming with these two convenient public transportation apps.

Tour Boston’s Freedom Trail

Even at $2.99 for Apple devices, it’s far cheaper than some of the other traditional guided tours in the city. Navigate the Freedom trail with ease and learn about the historical significance of stops along the 2.5-mile route.

ParkWhiz or ParkBoston

Driving? No sweat! ParkWhiz app will help you find parking deals all over the city and even lets you book them instantly on your phone. ParkBoston is connected to the city’s metered parking spots and conveniently lets you pay your meter fare from your mobile device, then tracks your time so you can avoid pesky parking tickets.

Weather Underground

One of the highest rated weather apps gives you an advantage over the ever changing New England forecasts. Get hour by hour interactive radar and forecast updates to make sure you stay ready for fun.

The only thing predictable about New England weather is the unpredictability. That’s why many tourists often panic when planning a trip to Boston. So what do you pack when traveling to a new city, especially when the weather may change at any moment? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

1. A good rain jacket

We’re not just talking about something with a hood here, but a layer that’s truly waterproof. Trust us, you’ll be glad you brought it when it starts down pouring during the second inning of your Red Sox game.

2. Comfortable walking shoes

Unless you plan on taking a cab everywhere, you’re going to do a lot of walking. This fact, combined with the many cobblestone streets, makes high heels impractical (and dangerous) for even the most experienced fashionista. Traveling during the winter months? Definitely pack some warm winter boots. The slush-filled streets will ruin sneakers in no time.

3. Nicer evening attire

Planning on checking out an opera, ballet or musical while you’re in town? Be sure to pack something that’s a step up from your tourist gear. For the ladies, we recommend some cotton slacks that travel well (and will require little ironing once you get to your hotel) to keep your legs warm if the weather suddenly turns chilly.

4. Jeans

Known for it’s comfortable style, Boston is a city that lives for jeans. Pair them with a slinkier top or a button down dress shirt and they will instantly take you from Fenway Park to happy hour. Packing one pair will often take you through several outfits during your trip and they may even be rolled or cuffed if the weather turns warm.

5. Great pajamas

Whether you’re traveling to Boston for business or pleasure, comfortable pajamas are essential to ensure you’ll get a great night’s sleep. Packing stylish PJs will also mean you’re presentable enough to walk downstairs to grab your breakfast in the morning.

What not to pack? Your Yankees gear, of course! Sports are a religion in Boston, and while the people are friendly, we don’t necessarily make fast friends with the enemy. What item always makes it into your suitcase when you travel to Boston? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

If you’re traveling to Boston, but feel as though you’ve already experienced all that the city has to offer, you don’t have to drive very far to reach some other cities and towns that are totally worth visiting. Check out our list of our top five places to visit just beyond Boston’s borders.

1. Salem — Rich in history, thanks to the famous Salem Witch Trials of 1692, Salem is loaded with interesting museums and attractions. Stop by the Salem Witch Museum, or the Witch Dungeon Museum for the low down on the city’s dark past. Or, for a change of pace check out the House of Seven Gables, a 1668 colonial mansion on the coast that has been transformed into a museum.

2. Manchester by The Sea — Located at the southerly end of Cape Ann, Manchester by theSea is a quintessential New England town with a quaint downtown and stunning harbor. Though lacking in the big “touristy” attractions, the town more than makes up for it in charm. Visit the picturesque “Singing Beach” (so named due to the sound the sand makes when dry) for a quiet afternoon in the sun.

3. Brookline — Though part of Greater Boston, Brookline was incorporated as a separate town in 1705. This means you’re sure to experience an eclectic mix of urban and suburban amenities here. Be sure to check out Allendale Farm, one of the nation’s oldest privately held family farms, for some bountiful veggies and colorful flowers. If you need a place to crash, check out our Inn for tasteful accommodations in a restored Victorian brownstone.

4. Cambridge — Despite its location right across the bridge from Boston’s bustling downtown, Cambridge is often overlooked by the tourist crowd — making it great for the travelers looking for something a little different without having to go very far. Boasting a vibrant arts scene, visitors have the option of checking out a show at the theater or browsing the Harvard Art Museums.

5. Newburyport — The furthest location on our list, about 45 minutes north of Boston, Newburyport is definitely worth the trip. From great shopping and dining to views of sailboats coming into port, this is a destination worth visiting. For lunch, stop by Michael’s Harborside for an amazing deck with a view and indulge in the lazy man lobster pie.

Have you visited any of these cities and towns? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!