Things To Do in Allston/Brighton

Brighton/Allston (aka Brighton, MA and Allston, MA, 2 subdivisions of Boston proper) are known for their large population of students.  Boston University and Boston College bookend the Brighton/Allston neighborhood. Brighton/Allston is easily accessible by the MBTA Green line. The B line runs down Commonwealth Avenue providing easy access to BU, while the C & D lines will bring you to Boston College. The area is highly residential with lots of restaurants, music clubs and bars catering to the college and 20 something crowds.  Artesani Park and Playground on the banks of the Charles River and Soldiers Field Road provide a variety of outdoor activities for families and sports enthusiasts alike.  The park hosts a children's playground, wading pool, running trails, boat rentals and more.

Watch Our Video Guide

Top Activities in Allston/Brighton

  • 925 Commonwealth Avenue
  • (617) 358-7000

Agganis Arena is a 6,000 seat state-of-the-art multipurpose sports and entertainment arena on the campus of Boston University. Home to BU Hockey, Agganis Arena also hosts concerts, family shows, exhibitions, and competitions. Located at 925 Commonwealth Avenue, the arena is…

  • 158 Brighton Avenue
  • (617) 960-8333

We set the stage for amazing live events. We host a variety of performances from live bands to stand-up comedy at this great Boston venue. Please visit our website for a complete listing. Special Events Brighton Music Hall puts your event in the spotlight! With an industrial…

  • 20 Nonantum Road

Rowing is the ultimate team sport. CRI's teambuilding rows blend the charm of the Charles River with the challenge of learning to row together as a team. There's nothing that matches the experience of working together and unifying as a team. CRI's best in class coaches will…

  • 96 Guest Street
  • (617) 254-0044

Out of our scratch kitchen comes a mix of modern and classic New England cuisine including dry-aged steaks, fresh local seafood and "comfort food done well". At our bar you will find unique craft cocktails inspired by the "Golden Age of Cocktails" and a wine list featuring top…

  • 89 Guest Street
  • (617) 675-1691

Elevate your next event at Boston’s newest special events venue, Roadrunner. The venue is outfitted with state-of-the-art amenities and provides flexible floor plans to suit events of all types. Whether it’s a social event, corporate meeting, conference, award show, product…

  • 400 Soldiers Field Road
  • (617) 783-0090

Since 1989, Scullers Jazz Club has offered some of biggest names in straight ahead, Latin and Contemporary Jazz, as well as Blues, Soul, R & B, Cabaret and World Music. Voted "Boston’s #1 Jazz Club" by Boston Magazine, Citysearch.com, The Improper Bostonian, CBS 4 Boston and…

Additional Activities

Boston Public Library: Visit the Honan-Allston Boston Public Library branch and enjoy a good read or attend one of their many events. 

Habibi's Hookah Lounge: Habibi’s Lounge is an authentic Middle Eastern Hookah lounge with exotic decor, enticing tobacco flavors, and delicious snacks. 

Harvard Stadium: No tour to Harvard University is complete without stopping by the football stadium. Stop by and catch a game or simply admire its unique architecture, modeled after the Roman Coliseum.

Night Shift Brewing Owl's Nest Allston: Spend some time outdoors and enjoy a quality beer along the river at this family and pet-friendly brewery during the warmer months (May-October).

Paddle Boston: Rent a Canoe, Paddleboard or Kayak and paddle down the Charles River to see local colleges, the Esplanade, and scenic Boston skyline views.

Paradise Rock Club: Catch a show at The Paradise Rock Club, a small music venue that primarily books national touring acts and large local bands.

Vivant Vintage: This quaint little vintage store offers an extensive collection of vintage cameras, clothing, antiques, sterling jewelry, and oddities.

Where to Eat in Allston/Brighton

  • DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Boston – Cambridge
  • (617) 562-4190

Dine overlooking the beautiful Charles River with sweeping views of Boston’s cityscape. Boathouse 400 offers a hearty full American breakfast buffet and signature seasonal dishes for dinner delicately created by our Executive Chef.

  • 1420 Soldiers Field Road
  • (857) 242-4280

The Charles River Speedway is a vibrant community marketplace. The historic buildings and central courtyard are home to a collection of bars, restaurants and flexible event space. Garage B is a fun and flexible, modern, industrial event venue for weddings, family celebrations…

  • 96 Guest Street
  • (617) 254-0044

Out of our scratch kitchen comes a mix of modern and classic New England cuisine including dry-aged steaks, fresh local seafood and "comfort food done well". At our bar you will find unique craft cocktails inspired by the "Golden Age of Cocktails" and a wine list featuring top…

  • 916 Commonwealth Avenue
  • (617) 208-8427

We are a full service and lively Mexican cantina, serving craft margaritas and abuela's famous taco recipes Join us for a great time with friends, family and salsa at Sunset!

Additional Restaurants

The Avenue Bar: This neighborhood bar & grill is a good place to grab a drink and a quick bite to eat. They offer a selection of craft beers on tap, spirits, and more.

Brighton Bodega: Brighton Bodega is a modern neighborhood bar that specializes in Asian street food-inspired small plates. With plenty of vegetarian options and lots of vegan and gluten-free modifications, Brighton Bodega has something for everyone.

Carlo’s Cucina Italiana: This cozy Italian eatery attracts crowds with its authentic Italian cuisine, making it a beloved neighborhood gem.

Lone Star Taco Bar: This wood-paneled cantina serves modern Mexican street food, mezcals & many tequilas.

Lulu's Allston: Lulu's American restaurant is a great place to grab brunch and drinks with friends. Their midcentury-modern decor specializes in comfort food and offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

Where to Stay in Allston/Brighton

  • 1234 Soldiers Field Road
  • (617) 206-1848

Studio Allston is a 117-room hotel that embodies a spirit of adventure and creativity, promising to deliver a hotel experience unlike any other. Inspired by Boston's hippest neighborhood, the hotel dedicates its walls to 12 different artists who've crafted jaw-dropping…