Good Will Hunting not only introduced newcomers Matt Damon and Ben Affleck—who co-wrote and starred in the acclaimed film—but also featured Robin Williams in an Oscar-winning role. One of the film's most iconic scenes takes place on a park bench in Boston's Public Garden, where Sean (Robin Williams) and Will (Matt Damon) discuss life, love, and therapy. This heartfelt conversation, marked by Sean's famous line, "Your move, chief," resonated with audiences and made the bench a famous spot.
Boston Public Garden // Ted
The Public Garden, also known as Boston Public Garden, was established in 1837 when philanthropist Horace Gray petitioned for the use of land as the first public botanical garden in the United States.
Cheers // Cheers
Established in 1969 by Thomas A. Kershaw, the Bull & Finch Pub in Boston gained international fame as the exterior of the bar in the iconic NBC sitcom Cheers. Situated directly across from Boston Public Garden, the pub served as the show’s signature establishing shot for all eleven seasons (1982–1993). Originally named after architect Charles Bulfinch, the pub officially became Cheers in 2002 after partnering with NBC, cementing its connection to the beloved series.
William Hickling Prescott House // Little Women
The William Hickling Prescott House, a National Historic Landmark, showcases the legacy of one of the foremost historians of 19th-century America, who lived and wrote there from 1845 to 1859.
Soldier and Sailors Monument // Central Intelligence
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument honors the soldiers and sailors from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts who lost their lives during the American Civil War.
Brattle Book Shop // The Holdovers
In The Holdovers, a cranky teacher at a prep school is forced to remain on campus during Christmas break to supervise the handful of students who have nowhere to go. During an excursion, Mr. Hunham (Paul Giamatti) and Angus (Dominic Sessa) stop at an outdoor bookstore, where a passing woman tries to seduce the teacher.
Massachusetts State House // The Departed
The Massachusetts State House is an iconic symbol of the state's rich history and government. Completed in 1798 and designed by Charles Bulfinch, it features a stunning golden dome initially made of wood and later gilded. As the seat of the Massachusetts government, it houses the governor's office and the state legislature.
State Street and Merchants row // Spotlight
In the movie Spotlight, Mike Rezendes (Mark Ruffalo) meets Mitchell Garabedian (Stanley Tucci) at the corner of State Street and Merchants Row before they walk to 92 State Street and enter the building.
New England Aquarium // Ted
The New England Aquarium offers a unique opportunity to explore marine life from around the world. It is home to thousands of aquatic animals, including sea turtles, penguins, and various species of fish. One of its main attractions is a stunning 200,000-gallon ocean tank.
Long Wharf // The Departed
The historic America Pier, Long Wharf, served as a key filming location in The Departed, when Captain Queenan (Martin Sheen) and Sergeant Dignam (Mark Wahlberg) confront mob boss Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson), warning him that they are onto him.
