Boston skyline
Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is a diverse, welcoming, and picturesque coastal city on the Atlantic Ocean that is home to more than 4.5 million people, a flourishing business sector, numerous prestigious colleges and universities, vibrant cultural and historic attractions and prominent professional sports organizations.

Boston serves as a global hub for business, technology and the life sciences. Additionally, Boston is famous for its centers of learning and is home to prestigious Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Boston College, Boston University as well as a number of other internationally ranked universities.

Mass General is located in the heart of downtown Boston, a short ride from Logan International Airport (Airport Code: BOS). The hospital campus is proximate to lively neighborhoods, public transportation, cultural activities, numerous restaurants, shopping and more. Major train stations and subway stops are nearby as well.

If your health permits, Mass General encourages patients and their families to explore all the cultural, historical and recreational activities the Boston area offers. Exploring Boston can be a relaxing way to spend time between your appointments. The International Patient Center’s Guest Services team is happy to make recommendations and help you plan your visit to Mass General and the Boston area. We are proud of Mass General’s more than two-hundred-year-old Boston heritage and love that our patients enjoy our beautiful city during their visit.

Local Attractions and Historic Landmarks

Boston has a rich American history and boasts many landmarks within the city and broader region. A few notable attractions that would be enjoyable for patients and family members of all ages include the Freedom Trail walking path, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Old North Church, Boston Tea Party Museum, Boston Public Garden, USS Constitution Museum, and New England Aquarium. The Esplanade is a park along the Charles River that offers a beautiful respite from the busy hospital, and in summer months includes sailing, free concerts, and outdoor family movies. Please consult with the International Patient Center staff for specific recommendations.

Museums

Boston is home to world-class museums including the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA), Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), Boston Museum of Science, Harvard Art Museums, MIT Museum, Boston Children’s Museum, and John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum. Please also consider adding our own Mass General Museum to your agenda.

Entertainment

The International Patient Center staff can provide recommendations on theatre, performing arts, musical concerts, comedy clubs, and more. Of note: Boston Symphony Orchestra is internationally acclaimed and presents more than 250 concerts annually at the beautiful Symphony Hall.

Shopping

Boston offers plenty of shopping to suit a wide range of tastes, from local boutiques and artisans, to national retail chains, to global luxury brands.

Dining

Boston boasts a wide range of dining options from fast casual restaurants to haute cuisine, including a variety of international restaurants and cuisines. Depending on the number of people in your party or day of the week, a reservation may be advisable.

Universities

Boston is one of the world’s best known academic and biotech hubs. The Boston/Cambridge area is home to prestigious Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as well as a number of internationally ranked universities and a thriving biotech community.

Sporting Events and Athletics

Boston is famous for its professional sports teams and proud, loyal fans. Local teams include the New England Patriots (American football), Red Sox (baseball), Celtics (basketball), New England Revolution (football/soccer), and Boston Bruins (hockey). Depending on the season, you may be able to purchase tickets to attend a sporting event. Our Guest Services staff are happy to assist.

If you are interested in personal athletics, such as sports clubs or local biking or jogging trails, we recommend you speak with the staff at the International Patient Center for suggestions.

Practicalities

Banking

Several cash dispenser machines (ATMs) are located throughout the Mass General campus. In addition, numerous banks, ATMs, currency exchanges and financial service providers are located in Boston including Bank of America, Cathay Bank, Citizens Bank, Santander, TD Bank and more.

Hotels and Lodging

Our Guest Services team can recommend convenient hotels, inns and apartments for rent to you and your family. Here is a preliminary listing (PDF) with prices and contact information, and we recommend you also consider contacting our International Patient Center concierge services team to help you with lodging options.

Boston Weather

Boston fully experiences all four seasons of weather during the year, including warm summers and cold, snowy winters. In July, the average highs are around 82°F (27.8°C) with lows of 66°F (18.9°C). In January, the average highs are around 37°F (2.8°C) with lows of 22°F (-5.5°C). The region is renowned for its crisp autumn weather and colorful fall foliage.

More Boston Information Online

Mass General Maps and Directions

The International Patient Center staff helps patients locate their appointments. The Mass General Visitors page also has a selection of interactive and downloadable maps.