Is Boston safe? What you should know

Boston, the beating heart of New England, is where cobblestone streets meet cutting-edge innovation! The city also has a lot of history, and you've probably heard of the Boston Tea Party! But it’s not just about the colonial vibes. This city is also home to the world-class Boston University, Fenway Park’s Green Monster (ask any Red Sox fan about it), and more Dunkin’ Donuts than you thought possible.
Fun fact: Bostonians drink the most coffee than anyone else in the US. So, don’t worry if they seem a bit fast-paced, it’s just the caffeine!

While Boston feels welcoming, if you want to stay safe in a big city, you need to know a few tricks. Whether you’re navigating cultural quirks, enjoying the great outdoors, or keeping healthy, preparation is key! We’ll explore everything from finding the safest areas to dodging those ankle-twisting cobblestones. (Pro tip: sturdy shoes, folks!) Want to blend in? Practice saying “wicked” for emphasis! Safety isn’t just about avoiding trouble, it’s about embracing adventure with confidence!

Safety tips to keep in mind during your time in Boston

Is downtown Boston safe? What about other Boston neighborhoods? Violent crime rates are very low here, it's actually the safest city on the East Coast! The city respects its academic nature and everything is kept civil! So don't worry about any violent crimes when you're visiting Boston. But if you want some extra tips to keep you safe, read on!

Getting from the airport to the city center

You're in luck! Boston Logan International Airport is right next to downtown Boston! You can just hop on the Concord Coach bus and get there in 20 minutes. It's the same time you'd need to get there on a bike if you're feeling eco-friendly!

Tips to stay safe when you first arrive in Boston

If you ask some of the locals, they'll tell you that "if strangers try to talk to you, it's a scam." Let’s not take it that far! But in most cases, if someone does come up to you with a sob story or to sell you something, it's usually a scam. You'll hear a lot of variations like: "I've lost my wallet"; "My wife's in the hospital"; "I was mugged." While there's always a chance that this happened, it's a scam in 99% of cases. They pull on your heartstrings and it's only human to want to help, but try to resist the urge.

Is tap water in Boston safe to drink?

Yes! Boston famously has some of the best tap water in the US, which already has strict regulations. MIT wouldn't let bad tap water slide! You might sometimes get an algae taste, but it doesn't affect the quality of the water at all. You can always get bottled water if the taste isn't for you.

Safe accommodation options in Boston

Looking for where to stay in Boston? It's a generally safe city, but if you want that extra bit of security, here are the safest areas:

1. Back Bay is pretty upscale, and it's known for its beautiful brownstones and closeness to the Charles River Esplanade and Opera House. If you're looking for shopping options in Boston, you can try Newbury Street which starts all the way from the Downtown Crossing! Fairmont Copley Plaza is pretty pricey at around $500 per night, but it's got a luxury feel like no other!
2. Beacon Hill is dreamy, picturesque, and tranquil, all in one! Think cobblestone streets, cozy gas lamps, and elegant homes! The Whitney Hotel is about $400 a night, but it's got a boutique-style setup with a cozy vibe!
3. Would you like a waterfront area? The Seaport District has incredible views of East Boston, delicious seafood, and plenty of open spaces! It's also close to the South End if you want to explore it! The Seaport Hotel is around $300 a night, has a pool and it's right next to the bay.

Pro tip: If you're here to check out MIT for your university options, why not also check out the beaches near Boston? They're great for some R&R, but you don't want to get any gear wet or sandy! So, just leave your study laptop, mini microscope, and barometers with us, and take a break from all that science mumbo-jumbo! With just a few clicks, you've booked a trusted storage location near you!

Cultural callouts & things to keep an eye out for

Want to know how to fit right in around Boston? We've got some great culture pointers for you:

• Boston is one of those places where people keep it real and the daily grind never stops. So, when you want to strike up a conversation, get straight to the point, no beating around the bush!
• Bostonians are very welcoming, so don't worry about expressing yourself! Also, remember that smoking isn't allowed indoors. It'll get you looks whoever you are!
• You can use your hands for burgers, pizza, chicken wings, and other finger food, but use utensils for anything else, especially in fine dining. A 15-20% tip is expected, just like in the rest of the US.

Keeping safe when navigating the city

Are you exploring Boston, but want to keep as safe as possible? Just follow these tips:

• The subway (the locals call it "The T") is reliable and safe even at night, but you should still stick to well-lit stations and areas. You can book an Uber if you want to maximize safety.
• Boston drivers are famously impatient, so it’s best to avoid driving if you're not confident or can't keep your cool in high traffic. Parking can also be pretty hard to find.
• Walking and biking are good options, just remember that some streets are steep and have cobblestones. The same thing goes for wheelchairs, though most public transport has ramps.

Nature and Boston: Safety tips to keep in mind

Nature lovers rejoice! Boston has some incredible nature spots to get away from it all!

• Looking to dive into some beaches? Carson Beach, Pleasure Bay, and Point Shirley are pretty close to the city center! You should watch out for those waves and currents, though. Boston looks directly out to the Atlantic Ocean.
• Are you searching for "best hikes near Boston?" We've got you covered! Blue Hills Reservation and Middlesex Fells Reservation are some top spots for hiking! Want something a bit more extreme? Brooklyn Boulders has some indoor rock climbing!

Last tips in the case of an emergency

Want to be prepared for the worst? We've got everything you need right here:

• If you need medical help, Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Children's Hospital are always open. Travel insurance is a smart move, health bills can rack up and put you in a tough spot. Avoid using ambulances if you can since they can cost thousands of dollars.
• If you're looking for places to eat in Boston, street food is generally safe and there are a lot of great restaurants. But, a lot of their dishes have allergens, so make sure to check the menus. 
• 911 is for all emergencies, like ambulances, the fire department, or Boston police.

So, is Boston safe?

Yes, very! A lot of people like to say "This is the best city for safety" or "This is the worst city for safety," but that’s a bit extreme. With crime rates falling all around the world, it's as safe as any other major city! And if you need to stash any uni stuff while you explore, Bounce uses only the most trusted local businesses for storage options around Boston! If anything goes wrong, just call our 24/7 support line and everything will be solved before you know it!