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Sunset

Golden Hour at the Symphony

Catch the last warm light on Commonwealth Avenue before settling in for an evening of classical music.

Best time: sunsetAbout 120 min

Timeline

  1. 14:51

    Caffe Bene

    Grab a coffee or light pastry at Caffe Bene. It is just a two-minute walk from the Symphony, making it the perfect pre-show refuel. The cafe is open late, so you can take your time enjoying the drink while watching the afternoon light shift.

  2. 15:51

    The Boston Symphony Orchestra

    Head into the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Arrive early to find your seat and soak in the formal atmosphere of the hall. If you prefer something lighter, check if the Boston Pops is performing, as they offer a more relaxed vibe with the same acclaimed musicians.

  3. 16:36

    Orpheum Theatre

    Step out to the Orpheum Theatre. This historic venue, built in 1852, is the original home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Stand outside or in the lobby to watch the sunset glow against the architecture. The sun sets toward the WSW, casting a warm light on the building's facade.

  4. 17:36

    Wally's Cafe

    End the night with jazz at Wally's Cafe. This South End institution has been a staple for live music for decades. It is an 18-minute walk north-northeast from the Symphony. The club is open until 01:30, allowing you to stay as late as you like while listening to some of the best jazz in the city.

Local tip

Rush tickets for the Symphony are available on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and Friday afternoons for $9. If you are under 40, tickets start at $20.

Check before you go

  • Caffe Bene is open Mo-Th 07:00-23:00, Fr-Sa 07:00-24:00, and Su 08:00-23:00.
  • Wally's Cafe is open daily from 11:00 to 01:30.

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Boston (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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