Winter in Boston

A Season of City Charm & Cozy Escapes

Boston in winter is an experience unlike any other—where timeless architecture meets the warmth of the season, and every corner of the city invites you to slow down and savor the moment. Whether you’re visiting for a cultural getaway, a romantic weekend, or an extended stay, Boston offers endless ways to embrace the crisp air and cozy comforts that make this time of year so special.

Holiday Shopping and Theater Shows 

Winter in Boston is the perfect time to explore the city’s most celebrated destinations for shopping and entertainment. Stroll along Newbury Street, where designer boutiques, cozy cafés, and local galleries line historic brownstones, or head to the Copley Place and Prudential Center for a mix of luxury retailers and seasonal pop-ups—all just moments from Hotel AKA Back Bay.

For an evening out, enjoy Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, playing through December 20, 2025, at the historic Emerson Colonial Theatre, or discover one of the many performances in the nearby Theater District, located steps from Hotel AKA Boston Common and Hotel AKA Back Bay. From cultural moments to festive shopping, the city’s charm shines brightest during the winter season.

Festive Markets and Art Experiences
In the Seaport District, Snowport Winter Village transforms the waterfront into a seasonal market, complete with artisanal vendors, local bites, and twinkling lights that capture the spirit of the season. In the South End, the SoWa Winter Festival returns for its 10th anniversary, starting November 28, 2025. Shop from more than 125 local makers, enjoy live music, and sip festive drinks while exploring one of Boston’s most beloved holiday markets. Beginning January 15 through March 30, 2025, WINTERACTIVE brings art outdoors with over 15 interactive installations inspired by Québec’s winter festivals. This free, walkable experience throughout Downtown Boston invites visitors to play, explore, and connect with art in unexpected ways.

New England Winter Sports

Boston’s sports scene brings year-round excitement, and winter is no exception. Cheer on the Boston Celtics or Boston Bruins at TD Garden, where the energy of a hometown crowd is unmatched. Football fans can make a day trip to Gillette Stadium to see the New England Patriots in action—accessible via MBTA Commuter Rail special event trains that run directly from South Station or Back Bay Station on game days, making it an easy and iconic New England experience.

Embrace Traditional Holiday Celebrations

Capture Boston’s true holiday spirit during the Boston Common Tree Lighting Ceremony, celebrating its 54th year on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The evening marks the official start of the city’s festive season, complete with live performances, twinkling lights, and the ceremonial illumination of Nova Scotia’s gift to Boston. A short walk away, the Quincy Market Holiday Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 22, 2025, transforms Downtown into a winter wonderland, featuring live music, festive treats, and the lighting of a 50-foot tree.

Ring in the New Year in the City

Welcome 2026 with First Night Boston, the city’s beloved New Year’s Eve tradition. The celebration spans multiple downtown venues and culminates with fireworks lighting up the sky above Boston Harbor. Guests of Hotel AKA Boston Common can enjoy the festivities just steps from the hotel—then return to the comfort of their room or unwind with a nightcap at a.bar or The Bosworth Restaurant + Bar.

Where to Stay & Dine

Experience the city’s most refined winter stays at Hotel AKA Boston Common and Hotel AKA Back Bay. At Hotel AKA Boston Common, guests are surrounded by eclectic design and modern sophistication, just moments from Beacon Hill, the Theater District, and Boston Common itself. Enjoy a relaxed dinner or handcrafted cocktail at The Bosworth Restaurant + Bar, offering chef-driven plates and a welcoming, city-chic atmosphere. Hotel AKA Back Bay occupies a landmark limestone building reimagined, blending timeless character with contemporary style. After a day of exploring Newbury Street or visiting nearby museums, retreat to The Berkeley Bistro + Bar, where seasonal dishes and fine wines pair beautifully with the cozy winter mood.
 

Make It a Winter to Remember

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or an extended stay, Hotel AKA Back Bay and Hotel AKA Boston Common invite you to linger a little longer. Explore our seasonal offers—from romantic getaways to multi-week stays designed for comfort and connection—and discover a new way to experience winter in the heart of Boston.

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