Considered “the 5th Avenue of Boston,” or the “Rodeo Drive of the East,” Newbury Street once again snags this year’s win for best shopping location. With its combination of trendy stores, restaurants and stylish people, Newbury is the go-to street for anyone looking to drain their bank account or people-watch.
Spanning eight blocks between Massachusetts Avenue and Boston Common, Newbury is a stretch of stores that feeds the material cravings of fashionistas and tourists alike. Stores like Urban Outfitters, American Apparel and H’M open hipster’s wallets like Arcade Fire playing at the Middle East. High-end stores like Burberry, Chanel and Marc Jacobs offer an array of ready-to-wear garments for the moneyed masses.
Also dotted down the street are stores that feed popular Boston trends, like the North Face and Longchamp.
Back in 1976, when two MIT students founded Newbury Comics, the street began its journey to becoming the one-stop, high-end shopping staple of New England it is today. Perfect for college students, Newbury Comics is perhaps best known for selling CDs, but is also a great stop for Red Sox gear, joke paraphernalia and, of course, comic books. The store has expanded to 20 locations throughout New England.
Lined with classic 19th century brownstones, Newbury Street is a destination not just for shoppers, but beauty seekers and foodies as well. Spas, pubs and restaurants are scattered throughout Newbury for those looking to wet their palate or get a massage after a long day spent swiping the American Express. Of course, there is Starbucks and other coffee chains, but there are also unique stops like Trident Caf’eacute;, which offers an array of books and a cozy environment for a date or a quiet night out.
Besides Newbury Comics, many students living on small budgets can still enjoy Newbury just for the sights and atmosphere.
“It’s a nice walk,” said Tom Bride, a freshman political science major. “I actually don’t even really shop there. I just walk it.”
– Rachel Zarrell, News Staff