What areas are fun and exciting. I love city life and looking for art galleries, good food, great and safe bars, small venues with live jazz, ethnic restaurants etc.  
I heard that Boston is similar to SF where I live. Is that true?

That said, Boston can hold its own, but as a frequent visitor to the gem on the bay, I think SF does offer more.

As for the best place to stay, that would be the Copley Square area, which is more or less comparable to SF's Union Square:  Lots of nice hotels and shopping, with museums and points of interest not to far a walk, including Boston's Chinatown (Which doesn't hold a candle to SF's, by the way.)

Copley Square is, alas, the most expensive area to stay, but if your budget allows it, focus on that.  Using Priceline, you should be able to find a 4 star for under $300/night in the summer.

Be sure to visit the Boston Public Garden and ride the swan boats.

For jazz Harvard Square is the place to go.  You can get there pretty easily on the T.

Have fun.

Thank you so much. This is really helpful.  
I see your name quite often on the general board but didn't know you visit SF frequently.

Hi Zayla.  I found this link when I googled "Boston city guide" and thought it was a good summary of a lot of the information you are looking for.        

Boston is a city of neighborhoods and it would take a lot of time to explore each one.  Cambridge has a lot to offer too.  And both are very safe as long as you take the normal precautions.  Hope this helps and good luck!

Thank you very much. Very helpful.  
xo