Boston offers a diverse range of shopping centers, each with its own style and clientele. In most US cities, a shopping center is synonymous with a mall, but not so in Boston. A shopping center can be a mall, a shopping street, or a shopping area.
Shopping centers in Boston cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences, whether you're looking for luxury brands, unique boutiques, or a vibrant atmosphere. Each area also typically offers dining and entertainment options, making them ideal for spending a day exploring and enjoying what Boston has to offer.
Here are the types of shopping centers you can expect in Boston:
City Malls
Boston City malls come in many flavors and price points and are popular among locals and visitors. The reasons are simple: it is just fun to explore the great selection of stores with many entertainment and food options.
Parking in city malls is readily available, but it can be pricey. Fortunately, most city malls have easy access to public transportation, and accessibility at city malls is excellent.
City Shopping Streets and Areas
A unique Boston shopping feature are the popular shopping streets and areas such as upscale Newbury Street, eclectic Charles Street, or the trendy Seaport area. These shopping areas are generally easily reached with public transportation. Accessibility is generally good but can vary in some historic areas with older buildings.
Suburban Malls
Suburban Malls in Boston are well established and cater to the suburban population as well as visitors. Each mall has a unique style, price point, and clientele. Parking at suburban malls is free, and accessibility is excellent.
Map of Boston's Major Shopping Centers
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Shopping Centers in the City
 Cambridgeside
Hip shopping mall near colleges with 80 stores including TJ-Maxx, Gap, Best Buy, Ann Taylor, Aeropostale, Apple, Sephora, and The Cheesecake Factory.
Cambridge |
 Copley Place
Upscale mall in the center of Boston with 80 stores including Ralph Lauren, Christian Dior, Porsche Design, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Gucci and more.
Back Bay |
 Prudential Center
Upscale mall in the center of Boston with Saks Fifth Avenue and 72 shops and eateries. Major retailers include Aritzia, Canada Goose, Eataly Boston, Polo Ralph Lauren, Sephora, and Tesla. With over 60,000 visitors a day, it is ranked among the top shopping centers in the US.
Back Bay |
Shopping Streets and Areas in the City
 Charles Street
Charles Street is likely the prettiest street in Boston and it popular among both residents and visitors. The street is lined with charming and upscale shops, offering a mix of boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores. You will find many cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee.
City Center |
 Downtown
Popular shopping district frequented by locals as well as visitors. Stretching from the Boston Common all the way to the waterfront, this area has over 200 retailers and 300 independent jewelers. The Downtown Crossing, Financial District and Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market areas receive the mostshoppers.
City Center, Downtown Crossing, Faneuil Hall |
 Harvard Square, Cambridge
Two blocks wide and wrapped around Harvard University is Harvard Square, one of the most interesting and eclectic shopping areas around Boston. With over 8 million visitors a year, the Square is one of the most popular shopping locations in the Boston area. Best way to get here is via the Red Line to “Harvard Square Station”,
Harvard Square, Cambridge |
 Newbury Street
World-famous upscale shopping street located among historic brownstone buildings. It is renowned for its upscale boutiques, trendy shops, art galleries, and a diverse range of restaurants and cafes.
Back Bay, City Center |
 Seaport Area
The Seaport area in Boston is the newest addition to the city’s neighborhoods, and without exaggeration, it is by far the most exciting new district in Boston. With 70 unique stores, there is so much to explore and discover, like Millennial favorites Everlane, Lunya and Alo or French luxury store Crémieux.
Off City Center |
