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The soundscape of Boston, MA

These are the sounds that make us think of our city.

The fountain in the Boston Public Library courtyard.

The BPL courtyard has seating, sunny views + is open to the public.

Photo by BOStoday team

What is ASMR? It stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response — a feeling of well-being caused by a specific stimulus, like a sound.

While much of Boston’s soundscape is dominated by honks, the hum of city traffic, and the occasional train screech, we have a few favorite sounds that are uniquely Boston.

Today, we’re taking a look (or a listen) at some of these local sounds and how they make us feel at home.

No matter what season, the sounds of swirling Dunkin’ iced coffee cups will place you right in the heart of Boston. Sip on the history of our beloved coffee chain.

🔔 Church bells can be heard from the 1,500-pound bell that was recently restored at the Park Street Church. You can also hear ringing from the Old North Church (famous for the Midnight Ride) and the bell from King’s Chapel, which was cracked in 1814 and recast by Paul Revere.

⚾ If you’ve been to a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, you know this tradition is so good, so good, so good. All the fans stand together and sing the Neil Diamond classic, “Sweet Caroline. This sing-a-long has been going strong since 2002 + we’re already looking forward belting it out during the next Sox season.

🧑‍🍳 Satisfy your sweet tooth with the crunch of a fresh cannoli. Boston has some of the best options for the Italian pastry — just visit Mike’s, Modern + Bova’s in the North End and you’ll see what we mean.

📚 Bostonians know if they want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s a peaceful retreat waiting at the McKim Courtyard at the Boston Public Library amid the soothing water fountain sounds. This beautiful space is free and open to the public.

If you’re looking for more local sounds, rock out to our community Spotify playlist with classics like “Shipping Up to Boston” and “Dirty Water.”

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