Massachusetts’ capital is an intellectual and business powerhouse with a sharp eye on the future – in fact, this sports-obsessed city has recently raised its MICE game into the super league. With a host of new venues, attractions and ambitious urban projects, Boston presents an exciting prospect for event planners in 2022.

OId meets new

New England’s mighty metropolis exudes colonial and contemporary charm. Cobblestone streets are filled with countless landmarks bringing together Boston’s revolutionary past with its future. The newest addition is ‘The Embrace’, a striking memorial for Martin Luther King, Jr. The sculpture encapsulates Boston’s spirit, summed up by one of the project’s directors: “Monuments are like trophies. They represent what a city hopes to present itself as. The Embrace Memorial, a 22-foot, three-storey-high memorial, presents Boston as a city where all are welcome," said Imari Paris Jeffries, Executive Director of King Boston.

With a heritage also rooted in music and sport, Boston has built two new music venues and a multi-sports complex. The 5,000-capacity MGM Music Hall, due to open later this summer at Fenway Park, the country’s oldest ballpark and home to the famous Red Sox baseball team.

Open this month is Roadrunner, a 3,500-seat concert venue with numerous event spaces, and The TRACK at New Balance, where 5,000 spectators can enjoy basketball, tennis, volleyball, soccer, lacrosse and a host of other sports.

Another standout opening is Raffles Boston Back Bay Hotel – the first Raffles to open in North America. The striking skyscraper will house 147 rooms, a rooftop garden, spa and pool, butler service, and expansive meeting spaces.

Image credit : Kyle Klein 

A warm welcome

Boston is perfectly placed to welcome the return of business travellers in 2022. Cosmopolitan, inclusive and ever-evolving, the city continues to be America’s best for quality of life. Visitors will also discover a youthful and innovative spirit as 35% of Bostonians are between 20-34 years old. 

The city scores top marks for connectivity, too. Geographically, it’s the closest US destination to London, with plenty of availability on flights to the rest of America and Europe. Getting around town is quick and easy, and recently boosted by an $8bn investment. Jump on the subway, nicknamed ‘the T’, wander by foot, or opt for the bus, train, or ferry service.

Stephanie Pappas, Vice President of International & Sports Sales,  explains, "For nearly 400 years, Boston has been on the cutting edge, paving the way with its world-changing ideas. Boston continues this innovative path, becoming more diverse, vibrant, and sustainable with each passing year. Visitors to Boston will find the city easy to navigate and welcoming to all. With a wide variety of new hotel products and eclectic neighbourhood offerings, Boston is sure to delight both first-time and repeat guests."

Image credit : Kyle Klein 

Unique venues and experiences

Boston is brimming with bucket-list experiences. As the home of several sporting behemoths – the Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots, and Celtics – there's nowhere better to watch baseball, hockey, American football, or basketball. After the game, head to SPIN, the hip new place in town for ping pong, dancing, and cocktails. Another fun-filled option for groups is Puttshack, an upscale tech-infused mini golf experience.

Beer is a big deal in Boston. There are plenty of taprooms to explore, including Castle Island Brewing, a new 10-barrel innovation brewery with a tasting room and event space serving pizzas and small plates. 

For foodies, it’s all about seafood. Sample a classic New England lobster boil at The Banks Fish House, which opened last summer with private dining spaces for groups. Or try The Pearl, a new contemporary seafood grill and raw bar with an open concept scratch kitchen.

Choose Boston

The Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau can help you plan your perfect event in the city. Contact the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors  Bureau here: at BostonUSA.com; or phone +1 617-867-8222