So I'm going to Boston for a weekend in June and I'm wondering if any northeastern Geekhackers could suggest good areas to stay in Boston for a weekend that is sorta close to downtown (but not downtown). I literally know nothing about Boston except from popular culture and prefer not to glean information from tourist websites, as I tend to check out neighborhoods rather than touristy sites.
My plan is to rent a bicycle, get a feel for the city and check out interesting spots that I encounter as I ride around. A sort of big city, self-guided tour. Any suggestions on what part of town is good for a weekend stay in Boston that is sorta close to downtown (but not right downtown) and is accessible with a bicycle?
Thanks in advance, geekhackers.