Boston Subway
 

I am intrested in getting a visitor pass when I am in Boston. From what I understand this covers the subway and ferries. If I am intrested in going to towns that are further out such as Salem, what is the best way to do this? Is the visitor pass worth having for a few days in Boston?

The Boston visitor pass is a bit pricey, IMHO. A ride on the subway costs juts a dollar, and the bus is less, but a one-day pass costs $6, so not everybody would get their money's worth. The 3-day at $11 and 7-day at $22 are better buys. The best buy is the regular (non-visitor) weekly pass, which costs $12.50 but is good for Sunday through Saturday only.

To ride farther out, eg to Salem, you'd need to take the Commuter Rail trains, which are not included in the visitors pass. You'd just buy a round-trip fare from your departure station.

Lots of useful info on their web site, www.mbta.com, and in past Fodors threads.

Is a cab the only way to get back to your hotel after the subway has shut down for the night?

no, you could always walk!

The last run on the subway is between midnight and 1am depending on which line you are using. After that the taxi is about it.