Greetings, fellow wanderers! Gather ‘round and let me regale you with tales from my recent journey to the marvelous, slightly less radioactive Boston, MA. Yes, dear readers, I braved the wilds of this historic city, armed with nothing but a map, a camera, and my extensive knowledge of Fallout 4. Join me as I navigate the cobblestone streets and irradiated landmarks of this beloved urban wasteland.

Boston Common: Deathclaws Not Included

First stop: Boston Common, the heart of the city and a staple in any wanderer’s itinerary. Unlike in Fallout 4, I was pleased to find the park devoid of Deathclaws and Super Mutants. Instead, it was brimming with tulips, happy dogs, and college students sprawled on blankets. I strolled through the park, half-expecting to find a hidden stash of Nuka-Cola under a bench. Instead, I settled for a hot dog from a vendor who looked suspiciously like Preston Garvey. “Another settlement needs your help,” he said. Just kidding, but the hot dog was top-notch.

Freedom Trail: Follow the Red Brick Road

Next, I embarked on the Freedom Trail, a journey that in Fallout 4 often involves dodging bullets and scavenging for loot. In 2019, however, it’s a delightful red-brick path leading to some of Boston’s most iconic historical sites. As I followed the trail, I couldn’t help but reminisce about all the times I’d sprinted down these very streets in-game, dodging ghouls and raiders. This time, the only thing I dodged was a flock of enthusiastic tourists.

Beacon Hill: Ghoulishly Charming

Beacon Hill was my next destination, and what a contrast it was! In the game, this area is crawling with feral ghouls, but in reality, it’s an upscale neighborhood with picturesque streets and gaslit lamps. I wandered the charming alleys, half-expecting to find Hancock lurking in a corner, but instead, I found a quaint coffee shop. Sipping my latte, I marveled at how this serene enclave once served as the backdrop for some of my most intense in-game firefights.

Old City Hall: No Synths Allowed

Old City Hall was another must-see. In Fallout 4, this building might house a secret Institute base, but in the real world, it’s a stunning architectural gem. As I stood on the steps, I imagined Nick Valentine by my side, sharing some detective wisdom. Alas, no synths here—just a group of schoolchildren on a field trip, probably plotting to overthrow their teachers.

Old South Meeting House: Minutemen Approved

Next on the agenda was the Old South Meeting House. This historic site played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and, in Fallout 4, serves as a reminder of Boston’s rich history amidst the chaos. Inside, I joined a guided tour, imagining I was briefing my fellow Minutemen on our next mission. The guide’s detailed account of the Boston Tea Party almost made me forget I wasn’t actually in a post-apocalyptic world. Almost.

Old State House: A Capitol Experience

The Old State House was another blast from the past. In Fallout 4, it’s a haven for raiders, but in 2019, it’s a beautifully preserved symbol of Boston’s heritage. As I stood in the balcony where the Declaration of Independence was first read, I couldn’t help but think of my many in-game battles to liberate this very spot. No gunfire here, though—just awe-inspiring history.

Quincy Market: Mutfruit and Mac ‘n Cheese

Quincy Market was a culinary adventure waiting to happen. In the game, food is often scarce and irradiated, but in real life, I feasted on clam chowder, lobster rolls, and an array of pastries that would make Codsworth proud. I even spotted a store selling Nuka-Cola-themed merchandise. If only the vendors accepted bottle caps!

Holocaust Memorial: Solemn Reflections

The New England Holocaust Memorial offered a somber contrast to the rest of my trip. In Fallout 4, Boston’s landmarks often evoke a sense of loss and reflection, and this memorial was no different. The six glass towers, representing the six million Jews who perished, brought a tear to my eye. It was a poignant reminder that some histories are more haunting than any game could depict.

USS Constitution: Anchors Aweigh

One cannot visit Boston without paying homage to the USS Constitution, affectionately known as “Old Ironsides.” In Fallout 4, this majestic ship is comically perched atop a building, manned by a crew of loyal robots. The real-world version, however, remains securely docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Stepping aboard, I half-expected to be greeted by Captain Ironsides himself, ready to set sail for the Commonwealth skies. Instead, I found knowledgeable guides who regaled me with tales of the ship’s storied past. As I explored the deck and gazed at the cannons, I marveled at how this piece of living history continues to inspire awe, much like its game counterpart.

Bunker Hill Monument: A Towering Tribute

No trip to Boston would be complete without a visit to the Bunker Hill Monument. In Fallout 4, this towering obelisk serves as a strategic vantage point in the battle-ravaged landscape. In 2019, it’s a serene monument to the bravery of those who fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Although I didn’t climb the 294 steps to the top, I stood in awe at the base, appreciating the monument’s grandeur. The surrounding park offered a peaceful respite, perfect for reflecting on the historical significance of this landmark. I imagined my character scaling the heights in-game, but in reality, I was content to soak in the atmosphere and let the monument’s towering presence speak for itself.

The Paul Revere House & Old North Church: Patriots and Pip-Boys

My journey ended with a visit to the Paul Revere House and Old North Church. In Fallout 4, these sites are iconic locations teeming with lore. In 2019, they’re beautifully preserved relics of America’s fight for independence. As I stood in the church, I imagined lighting a lantern to warn of incoming raiders—British, not Brotherhood of Steel. The Paul Revere House was equally captivating, though I was slightly disappointed to find no hidden stash of caps.

Boston in 2019 may not be a post-apocalyptic wasteland, but it’s a city that beautifully blends its rich history with a touch of video game magic. My journey through these iconic sites was a delightful reminder that adventure can be found in both the real world and the digital one. So whether you’re a Sole Survivor or just a curious traveler, Boston awaits with open arms and a fascinating story at every turn.