A New Yorker’s Guide to Visiting Boston: Travel Tips, Where to Stay & What Not to Miss

Make the Most of Your NYC-to-Boston Adventure

If you’re a New Yorker craving a weekend getaway or a quick escape with charm, history, and a walkable city vibe, Boston is calling your name. Just a few hours from the Big Apple, Beantown offers a refreshing mix of cobblestone streets, colonial landmarks, ivy-clad campuses, and seafood delights, without losing touch with its cosmopolitan edge.

But to make the most of your trip from NYC to Boston, a little insider info goes a long way. From choosing the best way to travel from New York to Boston, to knowing exactly where to stay in Boston, this guide has got you covered. And spoiler alert: Copley House in Back Bay might just be your new favorite home base.

How to Get from NYC to Boston: Choose the Best Way to Travel

Traveling from NYC to Boston is easier than you might think. Let's explore the most popular options so you can pick the best one for your style and schedule.

Bus (Budget-Friendly & Easy)

If affordable travel is your top priority, buses like Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus offer fares starting as low as $30. The ride typically takes 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic. Most buses depart from Midtown Manhattan and arrive at Boston’s South Station.

Train (Comfy & Scenic)

Amtrak’s Northeast Regional and Acela Express trains provide a more relaxed travel experience. With free Wi-Fi and roomy seats, the train from NYC to Boston takes around 4 hours and drops you right in the heart of the city. Bonus? The views of the New England coastline are absolutely worth it.

Flight (Fast But Fickle)

Flying is the quickest option on paper, just over an hour in the air, but when you factor in travel to airports, security, and delays, it often takes just as long as the train. Still, if you grab a cheap last-minute flight, it could be worth it.

Driving (Flexible But Tricky)

Driving gives you full control of your schedule, and the 215-mile journey can be done in about 4 hours. Just keep in mind that Boston’s narrow streets and parking challenges are very real. If you drive, consider parking outside the city center and using public transit.

To wrap it up, the best way to travel from New York to Boston ultimately depends on what you value most—speed, comfort, budget, or flexibility. Whether you’re hopping on a bus, relaxing on the train, catching a quick flight, or making the drive yourself, each option offers a different kind of experience. No matter which route you choose, getting from NYC to Boston is straightforward, stress-free, and the perfect start to your getaway.

Where to Stay in Boston: Feel at Home at Copley House

Once you arrive in Boston, finding the perfect place to stay can truly elevate your experience. If you're looking for apartment-style comfort in one of Boston's most iconic neighborhoods, look no further than Copley House.

Nestled comfortably in the historic Back Bay neighborhood, Copley House combines charm and convenience like no other. Our unique accommodations are set in classic brick row houses and offer everything from cozy studios to roomy suites, ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families. You’ll enjoy amenities like kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly lodging options, all just steps away from Boston's best attractions.

Explore all our rooms and suites here.

Must-Do Experiences in Boston’s Back Bay

Now that you’re settled, it’s time to explore! Back Bay is a treasure trove of architecture, culture, shopping, and dining. Here's what not to miss:

Copley Square

Just minutes from Copley House, this iconic spot is home to Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library, and the beautiful Boston Marathon finish line.

Newbury Street

Dubbed the “Rodeo Drive of the East,” Newbury Street is perfect for boutique shopping sprees and sidewalk café hopping.

The Charles River Esplanade

Rent a bike, stroll along the water, or pack a picnic. The views of Cambridge across the river are picture-perfect.

Museum of Fine Arts

Even die-hard New Yorkers admit the MFA gives the Met a run for its money. With collections spanning continents and centuries, it's a must-see.

And once you've explored the area, unwind back at your Copley House apartment-style suite, your Boston home away from home.

Why New Yorkers Love Copley House

Copley House isn’t just a place to crash, it’s a way to experience Boston like a real local. While hotels can feel impersonal and pricey, Copley House offers flexibility, comfort, and a uniquely Boston vibe that even seasoned travelers from NYC appreciate

Plus, with weekly and extended-stay options, it's perfect for guests wanting to stretch their weekend into a workcation or longer stay. Many visitors say the best part is being able to truly settle in, brew your morning coffee, take a conference call, and then hit the Freedom Trail.

Still wondering where to stay in Boston? Check out our amenities and see how Copley House makes your trip effortless, comfortable, and uniquely Boston.

Your Effortless Getaway from NYC to Boston

Whether you're heading from NYC to Boston for a romantic weekend, solo adventure, or family getaway, this New Yorker’s guide is your key to planning with ease. Choose the best way to travel from New York to Boston based on your schedule and style, stay in a neighborhood that feels like home, and discover all that Back Bay has to offer.

Boston might be smaller than NYC, but it’s got big personality, and at Copley House, you’ll be perfectly placed to enjoy it all. Book your stay today!