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BOStoday’s 2023 wrapped

From buzzy AI articles, to an eerie tour of a Boston landmark, here’s what our readers flocked to this year.

A brick, orange-walled room with a neon sign that says "THE ONE WITH..." hanging above white side tables, orange chairs and an orange sofa.

The “Friends"-themed cafe Central Perk caught readers’ attention before opening in the fall.

Photo by Brian Nevins

Pat yourself on the back, Boston — you were voracious readers this year. After delivering 250+ newsletters, hundreds of social media posts, and countless city guides, we’re proud to present our most-viewed articles and reels of 2023.

📰 Top Articles

The buzz on AI technology and bees
While some folks used AI to generate the “most Boston photo” ever, Boston’s Best Bee Company harnessed the new tech to create SmartHives that can monitor bees’ activities. And yes, this story is real — unlike many AI-generated pranks this year.

How to explore the Charles River in Boston
When it wasn’t raining this summer (which was maybe seven days total?), BOStoday readers hit the Charles River in droves for kayaking and paddleboarding, per the popularity of this post about Boston’s longest river.

Dunkin’ Spiked Taste Test
We teamed up with Boston food influencer Key (aka @wannabestayathomedad) to sample new Dunkin’ Spiked products, and spoiler: The mocha iced coffee was a favorite. You can watch our reactions in part one and part two of our Instagram reviews.

Take a tour of King’s Chapel with BOStoday
Apparently, BOStoday subscribers are creepy and brave. Thousands of readers virtually joined City Editors Jess and Victoria on a crypt tour below Boston’s historic King’s Chapel, home to the remains of former parishioners.

Volunteer opportunities in Boston
You showed love to the city you love by lending a hand at these 30+ organizations.

🎞️ Top Reels

“Central Perk” cafe preview
From the cozy couch to the instantly-recognizable logo, you couldn’t wait to see Boston’s new “Friends"-themed cafe.

Massachusetts is a relaxed state...or is it?
The Bay State secured the No. 4 spot on a recent list of the most relaxed states in the country. Our puzzled response (in Tim Robinson’s voice): “Are you sure about that?”

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