Local Customs & Etiquette in Boston, United States
1. Fenway Park Etiquette
Know the rules and customs when attending a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. Respect local traditions like standing for the National Anthem and 'Sweet Caroline'.
- Respect Traditions: Understand and respect the long-standing traditions that make Fenway Park unique.
- Awareness of Fan Behavior: Be prepared for the lively and passionate behavior of Red Sox fans during the game.
- Familiarity with Local Songs: Learn 'Sweet Caroline' and other popular songs that are played at Fenway Park.
2. Tipping in Boston Restaurants
Gratuity is expected in restaurants, often 18-20% of the total bill. It's customary to tip servers and bartenders directly, not just through service charges.
- Service Charge vs Tipping: Understand the difference between a service charge and a tip.
- Appropriate Tip Amount: Be aware of the acceptable tipping range in Boston restaurants.
- Direct Tip Payment: Tip your server and bartender directly, not just through service charges.
3. Boston Common and Public Gardens Etiquette
Respect the history and serenity of Boston Common and Public Gardens by following rules like no drinking or smoking. Dogs must be on a leash.
- Historical Significance: Understand the historical significance of these iconic parks.
- Prohibited Activities: Avoid activities such as drinking and smoking that are not permitted in the parks.
- Leash Requirements for Dogs: Ensure your dog is always kept on a leash while in the park.
4. Boston's Freedom Trail Etiquette
Respect the historical sites along the Freedom Trail by not touching or disturbing artifacts. Be mindful of other visitors and follow park rules.
- Historical Preservation: Understand the importance of preserving the historical sites along the Freedom Trail.
- Consideration for Other Visitors: Be mindful of other visitors and their experience along the trail.
- Rules and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations along the Freedom Trail.
5. Beacon Hill Architecture Appreciation
Admire the beautiful Federal-style architecture of Beacon Hill while being mindful not to disturb residents or properties.
- Architectural Appreciation: Appreciate and learn about the unique Federal-style architecture found in Beacon Hill.
- Respect for Residents: Be respectful of residents and their properties when visiting Beacon Hill.
- Photography Etiquette: Follow photography etiquette, avoiding taking photos of private properties or residents without permission.
6. Harvard Yard Etiquette
Respect the academic environment of Harvard Yard by not loitering, eating, or drinking in certain areas. Take care when crossing Harvard's brick walkways.
- Academic Environment: Understand the academic environment and rules of Harvard Yard.
- Respect for Students and Staff: Show respect to students, staff, and visitors within Harvard Yard.
- Proper Crossing Technique: Cross Harvard's brick walkways carefully to avoid damage.
7. Boston Public Library Etiquette
Respect the quiet and academic environment of Boston Public Library by keeping noise levels low, not eating or drinking in the library, and using a respectful tone when speaking with staff.
- Academic Environment: Understand the academic environment of Boston Public Library.
- Respect for Staff and Patrons: Show respect to staff and fellow patrons within the library.
- Library Rules and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of Boston Public Library.
8. North End Cannoli Etiquette
Respect the tradition of Mike's Pastry and Modern Pastry by buying a cannoli from each and enjoying them elsewhere.
- Tradition Respect: Understand and respect the tradition of buying a cannoli from both Mike's Pastry and Modern Pastry.
- Cannoli Purchasing: Buy a cannoli from each store to participate in this local tradition.
- Enjoying Cannolis Elsewhere: Enjoy your cannolis elsewhere, such as in a nearby park or on the street.
9. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum Etiquette
Respect the historical significance of the Boston Tea Party by not throwing tea overboard or causing damage to exhibits.
- Historical Significance: Understand the historical significance of the Boston Tea Party.
- Proper Behavior: Behave appropriately and respectfully during your visit to the museum.
- Preservation of Exhibits: Do not damage or vandalize the exhibits at the museum.
10. Faneuil Hall Marketplace Etiquette
Respect the history and culture of Faneuil Hall Marketplace by not eating or drinking while walking, being mindful of other visitors, and following store policies.
- Historical Significance: Understand the historical significance of Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
- Consideration for Other Visitors: Be mindful of other visitors and their experience within the marketplace.
- Store Policies: Follow store policies when shopping or dining in Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
11. New England Clam Chowder Etiquette
Respect the local tradition of enjoying New England clam chowder by not mixing it with crackers or bread, and eating it with a spoon.
- Traditional Preparation: Understand the traditional preparation of New England clam chowder.
- Appropriate Utensils: Use a spoon to eat your New England clam chowder.
- Respect for Tradition: Show respect for the local tradition of enjoying clam chowder.
12. Sam Adams Brewery Tour Etiquette
Respect the history and craftsmanship of Sam Adams by following tour guidelines, not drinking alcoholic beverages during the tour, and tipping your guide.
- Historical Significance: Understand the historical significance of the Samuel Adams Brewery.
- Tour Guidelines: Follow the guidelines provided during your tour of the brewery.
- Tip Your Guide: Tip your guide for their service and knowledge during the tour.
13. Boston University (BU) Campus Etiquette
Respect the academic environment of Boston University by not loitering, eating or drinking in certain areas, and using appropriate language when interacting with students and staff.
- Academic Environment: Understand the academic environment of Boston University.
- Respect for Students and Staff: Show respect to students, staff, and fellow visitors on the BU campus.
- Campus Rules and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of Boston University.
14. Harvard Square Street Performers Etiquette
Respect street performers in Harvard Square by not interrupting their performances, not throwing money at them, and being mindful of other visitors.
- Artistic Respect: Understand the effort and skill required to be a street performer.
- Proper Interaction: Interact with street performers in a respectful and considerate manner.
- Consideration for Other Visitors: Be mindful of other visitors and their experience in Harvard Square.
15. Boston Marathon Spectator Etiquette
Respect the runners and organizers of the Boston Marathon by staying on the sidewalks, not blocking entrances or exits, and cheering loudly and positively.
- Runner's Safety: Ensure the safety of runners by following spectator guidelines.
- Event Respect: Show respect for the Boston Marathon and its organizers.
- Positive Cheering: Cheer loudly and positively to encourage runners.