Famous Boston Landmarks & the Most Instagrammable Places to Take Pictures in Boston

If it's not on social media it didn't happen, right? Whether you feel like showing off your vacation photos or not, you'll most definitely want to take pictures to remember it! Boston is well known for a number of historical events, attractions and people, but visitors and residents alike are not always aware of the best spots to capture memories around the city. This is why we've had our team of city insider's put together a list of some popular places to take pictures in Boston.

Best Ways to See Famous Boston Landmarks

There's plenty of great places to snap the perfect instagram photo of famous Boston landmarks during your trip. Here are a few fun ways to help you get around while sightseeing...

• Hop On Hop Off Boston Trolley Tour
• Freedom Trail Walking Tour
• Bike Rental by Urban AdvenTours
• Charles River Cruise

Here’s some more info on historic Boston sightseeing tours. Many of the photo opps we listed below are located near some of the top attractions in the city - so you can combine the best sights with the best things to do. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more.

Best Places to Take Photos in Boston 1. Boston Public Garden

Take a stroll through the countries oldest public garden located in the heart of the city while taking multiple photos. Make sure to capture the equestrian statue of George Washington and the famous set of bronze duckling statues that are often dressed up for different seasons. During the warmer months you can also take a spin on the pond with one of the Boston Swan Boats, perfect for a selfie with the swans. Address: 4 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114

2. Bunker Hill Monument

The first major battle of the American Revolution was the battle of Bunker Hill. Even if visiting monuments isn't your thing, we recommend checking it out because of the gorgeous area in Charlestown it resides. You might notice that the actual monument is not on Bunker Hill, instead located on Breeds Hill, where much of the battle was actually fought. Nevertheless, you'll be able to get a view of the city from across the bay that is absolutely breathtaking. A great way to get to this location in Charlestown is by taking a water taxi (they run all year) from Long Wharf, located downtown near the New England Aquarium. Address: Monument Sq, Charlestown, MA 02129

3. Envoy Hotel Roofdeck

There's a new hotel in town and it's fancy. Located in Boston's Seaport District, The Envoy Hotel is part of the Marriott family, but kind of like its younger, hipper cousin. The best part about the hotel is a roofdeck which overlooks the waterfront and offers up some amazing photo ops. If you're looking for an upscale place to have dinner, this is definitely a hot spot. Our tip is to get in early to sneak up to the roofdeck for a quick drink and photo around sunset. Then save some extra money by eating at one of the many inconspicuous (but just as delicious) family-friendly restaurants in Boston. If you're into taco's, we've got that covered for you as well! Address: 70 Sleeper St, Boston, MA 02210

4. The Charles River

There's no better way to see the Charles Charles River than by going out onto it! During warmer months, you will find people running & biking along the pathways that line the river, as well as many sailboat and boat tours running through it, but the best tour out on the river is the Boston Duck Tour. It might seem cliche, or one of those too-touristy things to do, but we promise you won't be dissappointed. Address: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110

5. The Custom House Tower

The first skyscraper to be built in the city and one of my very favorite pieces of architecture in Boston, The Custom House Tower is worth taking a picture of. You can't miss it because it's so close to many popular Boston attractions, some of which include the New England Aquarium, Faneuil Hall, and Quincy Market. Address:3 McKinley Square, Boston, MA 02109

6. Harvard Campus

Or "Havahd Yahd" as some of the locals might call it, is as famous for it's beautiful campus as it is it's name. You'll find students and residents of Cambridge reading on the chairs outside on a nice day or taking a tour of the campus. Address: 1545 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138

7. Christopher Columbus Park

This is a beautiful park bordering the waterfront and the Italian section of the city, the North End. A great place to picnic with the family or take someone on a date, the Christpher Columbus Park is awesome for everyone. You can relax, nap, stroll with the kids and snap photos . It can be a little chaotic during the day with lots of strollers and kids running around but at night it transforms into a romantic and well-lit destination for couples taking a romantic walk after dinner. I've even seen a few marriage proposals taking place at the park. If you're not up for having a picnic (or it's too cold outside) there are plenty of great restaurants nearby. Address: Atlantic Ave at Richmond Street Boston MA, 02110

8. Massachusetts State House

Even if you haven’t been to Boston before, you’ll recognize this famous Boston landmark from practically every film ever set in Boston. With its 23-karat gold dome (just the outside covering), it has the most recognizable rooftop in Boston. It’s located at the top of the Beacon Street hill, so you can see it easily from almost any location in the Common. If your lens is good you might even be able to see the tiny golden pinecone at the top of the spire – a symbol of Massachusetts’ logging heritage. Exciting stuff! Address: 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 01233

9. Skywalk Observatory at the Prudential Center

Visit the Skywalk Observatory, Boston's only sky-high vantage point for sweeping 360 degree views of the entire city. An audio tour includes history and current events in and around the boston area. Visit the Skywalk Observatory easily and at a discounted price with a Go Boston Card. The Skywalk Observatory & Exhibit is open 7 days a week. Winter Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Summer Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (last admission at 9:30 p.m.) Address: 800 Boylston St #50, Boston, MA 02199

10. Fenway Park

Since it opened in 1912, Fenway Park has seen a lot of history and a lot of changes, but all of its most iconic features are still a prominent part of the game, like the hand-run scoreboard, the Pesky Pole and, of course, the infamous Green Monster. Truly one of the most recognized and visited Boston landmarks. You can take a tour of the park with kowledgeable guides who provide entertaining commentary, stories, and trivia as they take visitors through areas not typically seen by the general public. Address: 4 Yawkey Way, Boston, MA 02215

11. Trinity Church

The Trinity Church is one of Boston’s most unique and sophisticated attractions. Its ornate historical façade reminds you more of an old Italian cathedral than something you’d expect to find in a modern American city. It’s listed on the “Ten Most Significant Buildings in the United States” by the American Institute of Architects and is a National Historic Landmark. Its Copley Square location also makes it easy to get shots from a number of different angles, and to ask a passerby to snap a photo of you and your family. Address: 206 Clarendon St, Boston, MA 02116

Let's Recap

While this list is by no means exhaustive, it does contain a bunch of our favorite places to take pictures in Boston. From the most popular attractions to skyline views and scenic parks, there’s something to suit every taste when it comes to Boston photo opportunities. Remember, a number of these famous Boston landmarks and attractions are available with the Go Boston Card, where you can save on combined admission prices vs. paying at the gate. If you have recommendations for other places to get the best photos in Boston, feel free to comment below!