The Massachusetts capital has a lot to offer business travelers. As a business hub with a thriving economy and a home to diverse industries, Boston offers an alternative destination to New York City with as much allure as any other US capital. The home to prestigious universities like Harvard, Boston University, MIT and Cambridge, is also a strategic location along the United States’ East Coast that is readily accessible for business travelers worldwide.
The city is well-connected with an impressive transportation infrastructure, including Logan International Airport and a public transit system that is also very important to consider if you are thinking about making a business trip to Boston. In this comprehensive guide we will cover more details about getting around, where to stay, what to do if you have any time off, where to dine and give you other resources that might help you plan better for your trip.
Transportation around Boston
In a country where public transportation leaves a lot to be desired and cars are the most common form of transportation, it’s quite the relief for business travelers to know that Boston is very well-connected by public transport.
Traveling by air
If you’re traveling by air, chances are you’ll be coming via the Logan International Airport. The airport serves 56 destinations across North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. It is also the largest airport in New England, servicing nearly 40 million passengers a year. The airport is located just three miles from the city, making it readily accessible by all transportation vessels: subway, bus, taxi, or water taxi.
Public transportation
Boston is circumnavigated by a public transportation system known as the MBTA. The “T”, or the city’s subway, is one of the oldest public transportation systems in the country, running throughout Boston, to Cambridge, and to nearby suburbs.
Did you know? You can save money by picking up a plastic card called a Charlie Card, which you can load with the amount of your choice. A Charlie card fare is $2.25 one way as opposed to $2.75.
Getting around on two feet or two wheels
Boston was nicknamed “America’s Walking City” and unlike other major cities, walking is a popular choice for getting around, especially in the city center. The destination is smaller than you think, and you could easily walk around the heart of Boston, checking out different neighborhoods and attractions in less than an hour. You can also easily bike around the city as it’s just as bikeable as it is walkable. The good news is that it’s also a very safe destination so you can feel safe to walk any time of day or night.
Accommodations for business travelers
Business travelers can choose from a range of accommodations that cater specifically to their needs. Whether it’s a five-star boutique hotel, an independent property, or major international hotel brands, you can find something for every need. You can also choose an Airbnb or shared accommodation for extended stays.
Dining in Boston
The city is home to upscale, international, and contemporary cuisine, as well as excellent seafood, which includes Boston original chowder. Business travelers will be sure to find a place to suit them whether they’re looking for a quick fix during the day or somewhere to unwind after a long day. One popular place for business travelers to enjoy drinks before going out to dinner is the One Seaport development.
Sightseeing and bleisure
You may not have a lot of time between meetings, but the good news is that seeing as Boston is quite compact, you’re never too far from great shopping and attractions. Each neighborhood has something to offer, from independent boutiques in the North and South End to great artisan and locally produced goods at the 28,000 square foot Boston Public Market.
Sports fans can check out Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox baseball team, and art lovers can check out the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest art museums in the US.
Visitors can also visit Harvard University in nearby Cambridge where there is also a newly renovated Harvard Art Museum, and nearby MIT Museum is also a popular choice to visit. You can even take a tour of the University.
Why choose Boston as a business travel destination?
There are many reasons to choose Boston as a business travel destination. Professionals visiting Boston on business can take advantage of numerous networking events, industry conferences, and business expos held throughout the year. If you’re traveling to meet clients or attend a global conference, you’re in the right place.
As a historic and vibrant capital of Massachusetts with a rich cultural heritage and thriving economy, home to industries like technology, healthcare, finance, education, and biotechnology, you can be sure that Boston is a compelling destination for professionals coming from around the world.
In their free time, business travelers can visit cultural and historical landmarks like the Freedom Trail, go to first-class museums, eat at world-class restaurants, and enjoy a great balance between business and leisure opportunities.