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The Perfect 3 Days in Boston Itinerary (2024 Update)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Planning a trip to Beantown and wondering what to do? Keep reading for an incredible 3 days in Boston itinerary!

Few cities are as important in the history of the United States as Boston. In fact, the capital of Massachusetts is known as the “Cradle of Liberty” for its role in the American Revolution.

Those interested in the early history of the USA will absolutely love visiting Boston. And you can cover some solid ground over a long weekend in the city.

In addition to all the historical sights, Boston boasts several world-class museums and some of the best universities in the world.

It’s also a top-notch sports city, with some of the most successful teams of all time like the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics and New England Patriots.

If you’re ready to plan a perfect vacation in Boston, read on for a solid gameplan for visiting this historic American city.

My epic itinerary will take you to:

READ MORE: Check out our brand new, complete guide on the best things to do in Boston !

Table of Contents

When to Visit Boston

Getting around boston, boston citypass, freedom trail, faneuil hall, finish the freedom trail, back to the park, newbury street, skywalk observatory, explore the waterfront, choose your own adventure, christopher columbus waterfront park, new england aquarium, take a unique tour, hit a museum, visit a brewery, catch a game, museum of your choice, back bay fens, fenway park, jfk national historic site, best hostel in boston – hi boston, best mid-range hotel – newbury guest house, best luxury hotel – boston waterfront hotel, how to spend a perfect 3 days in boston, travel tips for visiting boston.

The first step in crafting a 3-day Boston itinerary is figuring out when to visit. Winters here can be brutally cold and unforgiving, which is not exactly ideal for exploring a city.

Of course, the warmer weather of the summer months also brings hordes of tourists and their selfie-sticks. For a nice happy medium, you may want to consider visiting Boston in late spring or early fall.

Whenever you visit Beantown, there’s sure to be a lot going on. In a city with so many major sports teams, art museums, and a lively music scene, you have tons of options for entertainment.

I don’t know about you, but I always check the calendar of events in a city before travelling there. If you’ve only got a few days in Boston, you might want to check and see if there are any games, concerts, or performances you’d like to attend.

Wherever you decide to lay your head during yours Boston itinerary, getting around the city is a breeze. Boston is a very walkable city and it also has excellent public transportation.

You can get most places in Boston on the metro, which is known as “the T” here. There are also local buses and ferries, as well as a commuter rail.

For visitors, your best bet is buying a CharlieTicket 1-day or 7-day pass. The 1-day costs $12.75 and the 7-day runs $22.50, so it’s actually a good deal even though you’re only spending a short time in the city.

Head here to read more about the various options for getting around Boston.

Read Next: Don’t forget to plan to enjoy some of the best Boston day trips !

Finally, the one thing I seriously recommend is investing in a Boston CityPASS , which is basically a card that gives you discounts at many of the main attractions in the city.

You buy the pass for $64, and it gives you entrance into the following Boston attractions:

• New England Aquarium,
• Boston Museum of Science
• Boston Harbor Cruise or
• Harvard Museum of Natural History
• Franklin Park Zoo

If you bought all of these separately, it’d cost $120.65, so you save 45% by buying the Boston CityPASS.

Now that you know a bit more about the city, let’s get this show on the road and take a look at what to do in Boston in 3 days.

Day 1 – Morning

If you want to start your day like a true Bostonian, grab a coffee and a donut from Dunkin’ Donuts and get a move on!

With a nice sugar high and a caffeine buzz, you’re primed and ready to kick off this itinerary.

When it comes to the best things to do in Boston, walking the Freedom Trail definitely tops the list.

This is a 4km-long path through downtown that takes you to 16 different historical sites, many of which played a role in the American Revolution. Follow the footsteps of the founding fathers as you take a walk through American history on the trail.

The best place to start out is Boston Common, which is actually the oldest public park in the country.

You’ll have to save chilling in the park for later, though, as we’ve got a busy Boston itinerary to get to!

Heading north out of the park, you’ll visit several important historical landmarks on the North End.

There’s the Massachusetts State House, King’s Chapel Burial Ground, the Old South Meeting House, and Old State House, among others.

The latter is the site of the Boston Massacre, which served as a catalyst for the Revolutionary War.

Following the Freedom Trail through the North End on your own is quite easy, as it’s well-marked and there are plenty of informative signs along the way.

You don’t have to join a guided tour. If you’re on a budget, you can just make your own tour.

Click here to download the official brochure of the Freedom Trail and then head here to check out an interactive map.

Those who prefer listening to reading can drop down a cool $15 to download a 2-hour audio tour . Just download the app and purchase the tour and you’re ready to rock.

Finally, you can sign up for an official tour and have a knowledgable local guide lead you around town.

READ NEXT: Looking for more history? Be sure to check out our list of the best things to see and do in Philadelphia !

Day 1 – Afternoon

How long you spend on the Freedom Trail is entirely up to you. Most of the sites are free to visit, but a few of them charge an entrance fee (Old State House, Old South Meeting House, and Paul Revere House).

Some people like to linger and read all the information, while others prefer to breeze through and snap a photo or two. Personally, we spent about three hours visiting a bulk of the sites along the way.

After taking in so much history in so little time, you’re probably ready to chill and grab some food. Thankfully there’s a spot on the trail that makes for the perfect lunch break.

READ MORE: Check out our other epic city guide on how to spend 3 days in New York !

With only a few days in Boston, you’ll definitely want to try as much local food as possible. Hopefully, you’re nice and hungry by this point in the day, because there are lots of options at Faneuil Hall on the edge of North End.

This is one of the most historic sites in all of Boston, as it’s where the Sons of Liberty gathered to discuss independence from Great Britain. It’s been an important meeting place and market ever since it was built in 1742.

To learn more about the importance of Faneuil Hall, you can join a free talk in the historic Great Hall. These begin every half an hour between 9:30 and 4:30.

Oh yeah, back to the food! Sorry folks – there’s just so much to cover with only so much time! Inside the hall, you’ll see lots of excellent options in Quincy Market.

When in Boston, one must eat a bowl of chowdah . For those unfamiliar with the Boston accent, I’m talking about clam chowder – a creamy seafood soup that’s a local favorite.

Or splurge and get a classic New England lobster roll!

If you want to be a mega-tourist, add a stop at Cheers. This bar is a replica of the one from the famous TV show and while a bit cheesy, is a fun place to grab a drink.

Before you go, be sure to check out the amazing street performers outside of the hall. From magicians to jugglers to clowns to mimes, there are some incredibly talented people here.

If you’re feeling the history vibe, then you can keep on cruising along the Freedom Trail and cross over the Charles River.

You could easily spend the rest of your afternoon crossing the remaining sites off your list, among them Paul Revere’s House and the USS Constitution.

Both charge an entrance fee ($5 and $10 respectively) so you may want to take that into consideration.

Should you feel a bit tired of reading plaques and looking at statues, just head back to where the day started and spend some more time exploring Boston Common.

Take a walk through the park and cross Charles Street, and you’ll find yourself in the Boston Public Garden. Cruising around the pond on a swan boat in Boston Public Garden is definitely among the top things to do in any Boston itinerary.

Near Boston Public Gardens and Boston Common is Beacon Hill , another gem of the city. Beacon Hill is one of the most beautiful Boston neighborhoods, so if you have time time it’s worth strolling around.

Beacon Hill is a residential area full of picturesque brick buildings, old fashioned apartments, and lots of greenery. Beacon Hill is always charming, but it is especially scenic if you visit in winter when there is snow falling everywhere.

Read Next: Looking for more history on the east coast? Check out our awesome 3 days in Philadelphia itinerary !

Day 1 – Evening

After a very busy start to your Boston itinerary, it’s time to enjoy a bit of leisure time to wrap up day one. And I know just the place to do that!

Once you’re satisfied with your time in the garden, head out to nearby Newbury Street. This popular commercial area is famous for its well-preserved brownstones that house a wide variety of businesses.

Unless you’re looking to drain your wallet, move quickly along the street. You see, the higher end of the street is full of luxury brands, earning it a reputation as one of the most expensive streets in the US.

As you get to the lower numbers, you’ll find some more budget-friendly options. Take your pick from the countless cafes, shops, and bars here before our last stop.

To wind down day one, head to the nearby Skywalk Observatory for the best panoramic views of Boston.

The observatory is located atop the Prudential Centre and it’s the only sky-high vantage point in the city. Try to time your visit around sunset for an absolutely epic view!

Tickets are a bit pricey at $21 for adults, but it’s worth it on a clear day. You can even see into the neighbouring state of New Hampshire on a nice day here.

In addition to the observatory, your ticket also includes admission to the Dreams of Freedom Museum. This museum celebrates the diversity of Boston and the importance of immigrants in shaping the city.

If you’re looking for a nightcap, there are plenty of bars in the area. Otherwise, head home and get some rest to gear up for the remainder of your time in Boston.

Day 2 – Morning

Rise and shine, because we’ve got another big day in Boston! Grab some brekky and coffee, lace up your walking shoes, and let’s go!

Thanks to its location, Boston has a beautiful waterfront with plenty to see and do, particularly on the North End. This makes for the perfect place to spend a relaxing morning in Beantown.

The thing about the Waterfront is that there’s just so much going on here that there’s no way to pack it all into your Boston itinerary. That’s why it’s time to…

While I’m here to help you explore Boston in 3 days, I’m not giving you a concrete Boston itinerary. Travel is all about going with the flow, after all. That’s why it’s time to choose your own adventure at this point in the tour!

Here are just a few of the many things you can do along the Waterfront:

This beautiful green space offers some fantastic views of Boston Harbor on the North End. On a nice day in Boston, there are few places better to be than this!

In addition to enjoying the views, you can also take a walk in the rose garden or head across the street for a ride on the Greenway Carousel.

Another option while you’re over here is the New England Aquarium. It’s a very impressive aquarium, highlighted by their Giant Ocean Tank. This is home to the aquarium’s most famous resident – Myrtle the Sea Turtle.

You can also catch a show at the IMAX theatre or join a whale watching tour here. These tours run between April and November and make for an unforgettable experience.

Click here to buy an entry ticket to the New England Aquarium. Unless you already have a Boston CityPASS, in which case the ticket is included!

HOT TIP: The New England Aquarium is included with your Boston CityPASS!

In the Waterfront area, you have plenty of options for a unique guided tour of Boston. Take your pick between an Old Town Trolley Tour , a Boston Harbor Cruise, or a Duck Tour.

If you’re wondering about that last one, I’m not talking about exploring Boston with a flock of birds.

A “duck” is a special amphibious vehicle that brings you on a tour of Boston before splashing down into the Charles River.

A Duck Tour is a super family friendly way to explore Boston by road and by water.

Alternatively, you can book a Boston Harbor cruise . Boat cruises are always fun, and there is a wide variety of boat tours in Boston to choose from.

Choose between a historical sightseeing cruise , a Boston Harbor Cruise with buffet lunch , or a sunset yacht cruise.

You can also tour Harvard University , one of the country’s most famous schools. The grounds are beautiful and lots of cool history happened at Harvard University, so it’s worth checking out.

Day 2 – Afternoon

Whatever you decide to do on the Waterfront, make sure to include a quick stroll along the scenic Rose Kennedy Greenway.

This is one of the best places for cafes and restaurants in the area, so go ahead and take your pick for a lunch break.

There are several great museums to choose from in Boston, and a few of them are located right over here.

If you’re ready to dive back into the history lesson we started on day one, head to the Boston Tea Party Museum & Ships. Here you get to go aboard a replica ship and actually re-enact the famous event.

The Boston Tea Party is one of the most well-known events in American history so it’s kind of like meeting a celebrity.

Tickets for the museum cost $40 for adults and you can save a few bucks by booking online . This is a rare museum that’s fun for the whole family, so it’s a great choice if travelling with kids.

Speaking of the kiddos, the Boston Children’s Museum is located right next door. It’s an interactive museum and is super fun, even for big kids! Tickets cost $18 and you can book online .

While Ben Franklin may not have ever actually uttered the words “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy,” there’s still a lot of wisdom behind the quote!

It’s been a busy time in Boston so far, so I’d say it’s time for a cheeky brew!

Cruise over to the nearby Seaport District of Boston to find Harpoon Brewery & Beer Hall. They run tours every day and tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Check their website for all the details.

If you just want a drink and don’t need a brewery tour to go along with it, another option is the Fort Point location for Trillium Brewing . These guys make some killer beers and have a solid restaurant as well.

While it’s a bit of a hike from the harbor, Samuel Adams is probably the most famous Boston brewery.

They’re located in the Jamaica Plain part of the city and their last tour starts at 5 PM. Check their website to read about all their tour options.

Day 2 – Evening

How you choose to spend your evening totally depends on what time of year you visit, your interests, and your energy level. After all, it’s already been a huge experience in Boston so far!

With so many options and so many variables, you know what that means. It’s time to choose your own adventure.

As a native Detroiter I hate to admit it, but Boston is one of the best cities for sports. Not just in the US, either, but in the entire world.

I mean, they won the Super Bowl AND the World Series in the same year and were just one game away from adding the Stanley Cup. That’s unreal!

If you’re in Boston between October and May, there’s a good chance either the Celtics (NBA) or Bruins (NHL) have a home game at TD Garden.

Even if they’re away, the bars around the arena are lively. I particularly enjoyed the hilariously named “The Greatest Bar.” Yeah, they’re not too humble around here when it comes to sports and drinking!

While the New England Patriots (NFL) are technically a Boston team, they play pretty far outside of the city centre. If you’re willing to make the trek, most home games are on Sunday afternoons between September and January.

If the Red Sox are in town, you should definitely try to score tickets. After all, baseball is America’s pastime! Plus, the Red Sox play at Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in the country.

Historic Fenway Park has to be on your list of what to see in Boston, even if there’s no game going on.

You can book a 1-hour guided tour of the sports ground here .

Live music lovers will be happy to hear that there are plenty of options for jamming out in Beantown. From a classy night out with the symphony to a wild night of head-banging along to some heavy metal, you can find it here.

To figure out where to go for some tunes in Boston, I recommend checking out this article on the 25 best music venues in the city. I always use Jambase to see what shows are on in a city when I’m travelling there.

Of course, you can always just go out and see where the night takes you. This is a city that likes to party so you’re guaranteed to find something fun. You’ve got to go big at least one night!

Day 3 – Morning

Depending on how your night wound up, it might be a slow start to the final day. Thankfully there’s no shortage of places to get a late and leisurely brunch in this town!

We hit up Zaftigs Delicatessen ( click here for directions) during our Boston itinerary and really enjoyed it. There’s nothing like some eggs benedict and a strong coffee to bring you back to life!

Let’s finish up this itinerary with a bang!

To kick off day three, head to the Fenway-Kenmore part of the city. Here are some of the best museums in town, including the Museum of Fine Arts Boston , which dates back to the 19th century.

You could honestly spend the entire day in here and not even scratch the surface. They have such a vast collection of art from all over the world it’s mind-boggling.

Be sure to have a look at their visitor guide so you can make a gameplan. Tickets cost $25 for adults and you can book online ahead of time to skip the line.

Another one of the best art museums is the nearby Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . This incredible art museum is located in the former home of its namesake, which was built in the style of a 15-century Venetian palace.

Inside, you’ll see three floors full of art, surrounding a lovely courtyard and garden. This has got to be one of the nicest looking museums out there!

At just $15, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is well worth the price of admission to add this one-of-a-kind museum to your itinerary.

Click here to book tickets online.

Another option is the Institute of Contemporary Art . Located on the waterfront, this stunning museum showcases so much interesting contemporary art and often has performances and exhibitions. Visit the website for more info!

HOT TIP: The Museum of Science is included with your Boston CityPASS!

Whichever museum you choose to visit, be sure to drop by the nearby Back Bay Fens on your way out. This tranquil green space is a part of the larger Emerald Necklace chain of parks throughout Boston and Brookline.

This is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll after a jampacked 3 days in Boston. While you’re here, don’t miss the beautiful Kelleher Rose Garden.

In addition, you can visit one of only two remaining “Victory Gardens” in the US that were planted by citizens to help grow food during World War II.

There’s also a temple bell here that was donated by Japan after the war as a symbol of peace.

Day 3 – Afternoon

After a moment of peace and quiet out in nature, it’s time to finish up your Boston itinerary! Next up, we’re headed to one of the most iconic places in the city – Fenway Park.

Since it’s a major sporting venue, there are tons of places to eat and drink around Fenway. Go ahead and take this opportunity to grab some lunch and take a load off before visiting the ballpark.

Dating back to 1912, Fenway is the oldest ballpark in America. It’s home to the city’s beloved Red Sox, and is a must-see when you visit Boston.

As I mentioned earlier, it’s worth it to visit Fenway even if there isn’t a Boston Red Sox game going on. They run tours of the ballpark from 9-5 during the season, even on game days (tours run 10-5 from November to March).

In an age of excessive corporate sponsorship and tacky theme park-esque ballparks, it’s nice to visit one of the originals. I’m a Tigers fan for life but I’ve got to admit that going to Fenway Park is an incredible experience.

On a tour of Fenway, you’ll get to learn all about the unique features of the ballpark, such as its famous “Green Monster.”

You need to book ahead of time if you want to do a tour, and you can do that here .

If there’s not a game going on at Fenway or you’re just not into baseball, let me present an alternative option.

Not too far up the road is the John F. Kennedy National Historic Site, birthplace and childhood home of the 35th US President.

You can normally tour the grounds, but the National Historic Site is actually closed until 2023 for maintenance and renovations. But when they are ready to reopen, it should definitley have a place on your Boston itinerary. Check their website for more information.

If you’d like to learn more about JFK and his legacy, you can also consider adding a trip to his presidential library and museum to your Boston itinerary.

Day 3 – Evening

Congratulations on making it to the end of a busy stay in Boston! I definitely didn’t go easy on you with this one…

If you actually followed this beast of an itinerary, chances are you’re pretty spent by now. It’s your last night in Beantown, though, so power through and head out for one last night.

With so many options in Boston, it’s time once again to…

We’ve already covered sports and live music here, but there are lots of other great options for entertainment in Boston.

One popular option is an escape room. There are a few near Boston Common, including Trapology and Escape the Room . Find the clues and solve some mind-bending puzzles to make your escape in time!

Perhaps you’d rather wind down your time in Boston with some laughs. The city is home to many excellent comedy clubs, including Improv Asylum.

Check out their website to see what’s playing while you’re in town.

If you’d prefer to just have a nice dinner and a few drinks, the area around the Waterfront is full of great restaurants and bars.

South Boston, locally known as “Southie”, also has great nightlife.

And that about does it for how to spend 3 days in Boston!

Boston Travel Guide

Where to stay in boston.

This isn’t the biggest city, but you still want to give some consideration to where you stay. Downtown is the hub of tourist activity and thus has the biggest selection of accommodation.

If you’re planning on spending a lot of your time in Boston in museums and at the ballpark, the Fenway-Kenmore area is a better choice. Those focused on fine dining and shopping should look to the Back Bay area of the city.

Beacon Hill is centrally located, but it’s quite expensive.

In these areas, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation choices.

Boston is home to budget hostels, mid-range hotels, luxury resorts, and everything in between. Here’s a top choice for each category:

When it comes to hostels, you just can’t beat HI Boston. It’s in a great location, just steps away from Boston Common and the start of the Freedom Trail.

Hosteling International is all over the world and they know what backpackers like! They offer free breakfast as well as free walking tours, a nice TV room to chill in, a pool table, and much more.

HI Boston also has laundry facilities and a nice cafe with free WiFi if you need to get a bit of work done or just post pictures from your awesome 3 days in Boston.

Dorm beds here are comfy and each one has a light and outlet. These range from $40-60 a night depending on the number of beds in the room.

This fantastic hotel is located in one of Boston’s most historic neighbourhoods – Back Bay. Here you can see 19th-century townhouses.

They have four different room types, from their standard room to their luxury bay window king room. All rooms include free WiFi and breakfast.

All guests can enjoy their nice common area, where there is a computer and printer along with free tea, coffee, and cookies. Yummy!

If you’re hoping to catch a game at Fenway, this is an excellent choice as the ballpark is just a mile away. Rooms start at $259 a night here.

If you’re looking to live it up, the Boston Waterfront Hotel on the North End is the place for you. This 5-star hotel is located right on the Rowes Wharf and is known for its “classically current” style.

All of the 232 rooms here are beautifully designed with tremendous attention to detail. These range from their Superior Room all the way up to the unreal John Adams Presidential Suite.

There are several options for wining and dining on-site, including the Meritage Restaurant & Wine Bar and Brewer’s Alley. You can also get room service here 24/7!

As if that weren’t enough, they also have a state-of-the-art gym here with a three-lane pool and a spa. You’re really living the good life if you stay here!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Sasha and Rachel

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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I would love to visit Boston in the summer! This itinerary looks perfect!

This is an excellent itinerary for anyone planning a short trip to Boston! Your suggestions for must-visit sights and activities are well thought out and cover a good range of interests, from history to food to outdoor exploration.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it 🙂

Great 3 days itinerary!Really useful tips about and informative content about boston.Thanks for sharing.

Thanks so much. Glad the article was helpful. 🙂

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The 17 Best Things to Do in Boston

By Todd Plummer and Paul Rubio

Built on almost 400 years of history, Boston's character is as layered and distinct as a Kennedy accent. The city has reinvented itself countless times over, serving at different times and to different communities as the birthplace of the American Revolution, as an international academic capital, and as a biotech hub. Boston’s wharves whisper of tea parties, its libraries of literary greats, and its ballpark of curses broken. Each year, its famed universities keep this old city young with an ebb and flow of some 150,000 students from around the world—and these smarties keep the city lively round the clock.

All that, plus some of the finest  food and  drink make Boston one of America’s greatest and most enduring cities. Across its patchwork of squares, corners, and crossings, here are the best things to do in  Boston —including the occasional jaunt across the Charles River to neighboring  Cambridge —whether you're in town for Marathon Monday (better known as Patriot's Day around here), making a summer stop on your way to the Cape and islands , or on a fall foliage journey .

Read our complete Boston travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Arrow

This is one of  our favorite museums in Boston —and the country. At once intimate and unparalleled in its grandeur, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum draws on the vast art collection of its eponymous (and eccentric) founder, who had a thirst for travel, a bohemian lifestyle, and the fine luxuries of ancient cultures. Set within a Venetian-style palazzo, surrounding an elegant courtyard, masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, and John Singer Sargent share space with impressive architectural elements. Stewart Gardner herself delicately arranged the collection of more than 7,500 fine and decorative art objects, 2,700 books and manuscripts, and over 8,000 historic objects from around the world, including sculptures, furniture, textiles, metalworks, and ceramics, that she collected during her lifetime. A Renzo Piano–designed wing opened in 2012, and provides interdisciplinary, multipurpose space for contemporary artists, musicians and scholars.

New England Aquarium Arrow

It all starts with the penguins—when you first enter, you're greeted by African Penguin and Rockhopper colonies that are by any measure an absolute delight to watch. Just past, the main attraction is the 40-foot wide, floor-to-ceiling, 200,000 gallon salt water Ocean Tank, home to about 1000 marine animals, including turtles, eels, and tropical fish. A cylindrical walkway makes it possible for guests to experience the tank from every depth and angle, and a number of smaller satellite rooms contain informational displays and touch tanks that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This is a popular field trip spot, so you're likely to be surrounded by schools of rambunctious kids on any given day, especially from the lunch hour onwards. The museum implemented timed ticketing during the pandemic and is likely to keep it moving forward, which acts as a good form of crowd control, but the quietest times to visit are still weekdays first thing in the morning.

High Street Place Arrow

Food halls are complicated. Make them too pedestrian and they quickly fall into the “food court” category, recalling the sad shopping mall eateries of our youth. But throw in a James Beard finalist, and an eclectic mix of some of Boston’s most discerning foodie favorites from across the city, and you’ve got a worthwhile detour for locals and visitors alike. Highlights include: bagels and pastrami from Brookline favorite Mamaleh’s; artisanal doughnuts from Blackbird; and Bubble Bath, a Champagne bar complete with Moët & Chandon vending machine. There’s tons of seating, a sleek LED entertainment system playing multiple sports games at once, and an airy, atrium-type feel that never feels overly crowded or cramped. There are a number of excellent food halls serving downtown Boston’s office-dwelling population, but this one feels less like a corporate convenience stop and more like a proper microcosm of the city’s food scene.

Public Garden Arrow

Bostonians may breeze through the Public Garden to get from one side of town to the other, but there's plenty to linger over in this city-center oasis. The lagoon, which wanders almost the entire length of the garden, is where the famed Swan Boats have been peddled for over a century; and the flowers are beyond vivid. The Commonwealth Avenue entrance serves as the park’s most enchanting introduction, where a statue of George Washington comes flanked by flowers at the gate. In this pleasurable moment, remember that Victorian Bostonians found this park to be offensively bright. My, how times have changed.

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

Meaghan Kenny

Boston Public Library Arrow

There’s a lot to love about the Boston Public Library: It’s the oldest municipally-funded lending library in the country, its McKim Building is considered the masterwork of iconic Gilded Age architect Charles Follen McKim, and an ongoing calendar of free events all year-round means there is quite literally always a tour to go on, lecture to attend, or exhibit to peruse. Architecture nuts should reserve a spot on one of the thrice-weekly Art & Architecture Tours, which unlocks some of the premises’ lesser-known gems, including tile arches by famed Spanish builder Rafael Guastavino, and the first mural commission from John Singer Sargeant. The museum is home to all sorts of treasures beyond just books–including the lesser-known but entirely worthwhile Norman B. Leventhal Map Center, which houses over 250,000 geographic objects.

Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University Arrow

A gorgeous 281-acre green space within Boston, Arnold Arboretum of  Harvard University is the oldest public arboretum in North America (c. 1872) and the highlight of Frederick Law Olmsted's famed  Emerald Necklace series of green space in the city. Prolific biking and walking trails zigzag past more than 16,000 accessioned plants, many meticulously marked with signs. The natural splendor is a feast for the eyes, which are able to spot the sheer diversity of trees and plants at every turn. QR-coded signs and the arboretum’s easy-to-use  Expeditions app make it possible to dig deep into the environment.

The Freedom Trail Arrow

The Freedom Trail starts at the  Boston Common , the oldest public park in the United States, following a red brick path lined with 16 historic landmarks, which paint a picture of Boston’s revolutionary history. Although tourists flock to the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, this pedestrian path also coincides with day-to-day rush of downtown Boston. You’ll see revolutionary sites in a modern setting and walk alongside commuters and after-school kids. If you’re short on time, prioritize the North End section of the trail, home to landmarks like the  Paul Revere House , Old North Church, and Copp’s Hill Burial Ground, in a historic neighborhood that’s known as Boston’s Little Italy. If you want to go deeper, find all the hidden Freedom Trail spots locals love to visit here.

Charles Street Arrow

Beacon Hill, one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, is home to some of the finest examples of Federal-style brick row houses in the country, and Charles Street is the perfect launching point from which to explore it all. Tiny sidewalks, gaslit corners, and Instagrammable charm await on this busy thoroughfare, which starts by the Massachusetts General Hospital campus and concludes on the Boston Common. Charles Street has an independent bent that locals love to support. Come here for contemporary accessories at December Thieves, mouthwatering truffles at Beacon Hill Chocolates, custom stationery at Gus + Ruby Letterpress, and “this might have belonged to a Kennedy” antiques at Upstairs Downstairs Home. And if you’re a book lover (or bookstore lover), don’t leave town without visiting Beacon Hill Books & Cafe , a stunning townhome-turned-bookshop that’s restoring this city’s faith in the importance of independent booksellers.

Lookout Rooftop Arrow

With a deserved reputation as Boston's premiere rooftop bar, Lookout often reaches capacity with the city's work-hard, play-hard young professional crowd (Reservations are required these days; no walk-ins). For most, Lookout isn't a novelty—it's a mainstay—though you may find the occasional bridge-and-tunnel-type folks later on weekends. The crowd definitely likes a solid cocktail but they're here for the views and highly social atmosphere. In a city that skews historic and can feel sometimes like a  college town, The Lookout Rooftop provides big-city appeal with a cool crowd, awesome skyline views, and strong drinks. It's a place to hang out with friends and just have some boozy fun.

Fenway Park Arrow

What’s Boston without Fenway Park? America’s “Most Beloved Ballpark” isn’t just a stadium–it’s a piece of living history. It’s the home of the Red Sox, who play there each year from late March through October, but it’s also known for its popular summer concert series, and its fascinating behind-the-scenes tours offered in the off-season. Sure, there are parts of Fenway’s history that aren’t exactly worth celebrating–the Red Sox remained segregated longer than any other MLB team, and it wasn’t until Lady Gaga’s Joanne World Tour came in 2017 that a woman headlined a concert there–but at the end of the day, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Boston. When you’re in the cheap seats, having paid way too much for a beer and a hot dog and the crowd starts singing “Sweet Caroline,” it’s clear there’s a sense of history here that even non-sports lovers can get excited about.

Charles River Esplanade Arrow

If you’re exploring Boston for the day, take a walk up through Back Bay from Massachusetts Avenue and loop back down along the Esplanade or head over the Harvard Bridge to Cambridge (Ironically, the Harvard Bridge ends at M.I.T.). It's a narrow paradise along both sides of the Charles River, stretching for several miles between the Longfellow Bridge to the west and the Boston University bridge to the east. More than 1,500 trees line the walkway (or runway, if it's marathon-training season), while playgrounds, ponds, and gardens bring a lyrical quality to this meandering landscape. It's best viewed in autumn, when the Esplanade shows its true colors. The Hatch Shell is a performance space that serves as home base for all things at the Esplanade including the famous performance by the  Boston Pops on the Fourth of July.

South End Arrow

This neighborhood has the kind of charm that'll make you move to Boston. There are so many historic plaques that show off the neighborhood's rich past and an abundance of hidden art galleries and boutiques that will keep you searching for more. Design aficionados should definitely come here on Sundays, when you can visit SoWa Open Market (short for South of Washington Street) for food trucks and entertainment as well as SoWa Vintage Market and the SoWa Farmer's Market, and a number of one-of-a-kind boutiques and design showrooms. Plus, a foodie's trip to Boston isn't complete without a stop here casual bistros and oyster-slinging wine bars: Don't miss Black Lamb , an elevated American brasserie that impresses with a sensational raw options and sublime lobster rolls. Late night, stop by Beehive or Wally's Cafe for lively local jazz sets in casual bar settings. And for one of Boston's best dive bars (and best burgers) where everybody knows your name, hit cozy wood-paneled DeLux Cafe on cobblestoned Chandler Street.

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Arrow

The MFA’s vast collection of art and artifacts is exceptional by any standard. The museum houses one of the best collections of Korean art outside the Korean peninsula, the only permanent exhibition space for ancient coins in the United States, one of the world’s largest holdings of ancient Egyptian treasures, and a comprehensive collection of work by John Singer Sargent. The museum’s claims to fame are so varied, in fact, you could spend weeks documenting its exceptionality. Whatever you take in during your visit, don’t miss the Claude Monet gallery in the European Wing, with one of the greatest caches of the Impressionist’s work outside of France, or the impressive Arts of Islamic Cultures Gallery, whose 2019 reinstallation was developed in collaboration with local Muslim groups. All said and done, the MFA is the crown jewel of  Boston's art scene .

Seaport District Arrow

Boston Seaport is one of the city's most talked-about neighborhoods—and for good reason. The former no-man's land, just over the bridge from Downtown, has quickly evolved into a center of innovation, mixed-use development, and modern culture, attracting prominent companies like Amazon, big names in biotech, and major developers competing to erect Boston’s priciest, sky-scraping condos. A young, ambitious work force has followed, as have some great businesses—including the  Institute of Contemporary Art ,  Legal Harborside 's rooftop bar, Wood Hills Pier 4 for farm-to-table cuisine, darts bar Flight Club, the Lookout Rooftop, and Mediterranean hotspot  Committee.

The Barking Crab Arrow

The last vestige of the old Seaport—a once rough-around-the edges neighborhood that’s now filled with glass skyscrapers, corporate types, and Lululemon stores—this indoor-outdoor seafood institution fills with diners and happy hour revelers of all stripes, from construction workers to management consultants. The waterfront destination feels like a coastal summer clam shack with its tented roof and picnic tables, and, indeed, it got its start as a seasonal restaurant back in 1994. Now, it includes a more permanent wing with an old time-y tavern feel, but the seaside, atmosphere persists throughout. That vibe pairs perfectly with the menu of seafood platters; raw bar favorites; fried scallops, shrimp, and clams; fish sandwiches; entrees; and lobster in all forms, including boiled, grilled, roasted, and rolled.

Brattle Book Shop Arrow

In the heart of Boston’s downtown, carts and shelves of $1, $3, and $5 books fill an alley off of West Street. The seller: Brattle Bookshop, a store that encompasses three floors of used books, the top one filled with rare collectibles. Its purveyor, Ken Gloss, is a regular appraiser on the PBS’ Antiques Roadshow and has gained modest fame among antiquers and public-television addicts.  Independent bookshops attract an eclectic mix of characters, and that’s as much a part of the experience as the books themselves. Curmudgeonly regulars, bespectacled students, and travelers who value a good read all make Brattle Bookshop an institution. Even the famously reclusive J.D. Salinger stopped here once.

Harvard Square Arrow

Take an afternoon and evening to sink into this corner of Cambridge, and you’ll have discovered a city unto itself. You certainly don’t have to be a student to savor this neighborhood. There are  art and  natural history museums on Harvard’s campus, quirky boutiques for souvenirs like Black Ink, Grolier Poetry Book Shop (the oldest in the country, c. 1927), and local-loved, world-class restaurants like  Alden & Harlow . Tourists turn out in droves to walk the famous Harvard Yard, and despite the crowds it's worth taking a genuine wander.

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15 best things to do in boston – a comprehensive travel guide, poor little it girl™ partners with several affiliate programs, meaning that i can earn a commission from purchases/clicks by those who visit this site at no additional cost to you.

Planning a trip to Boston? Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a nature lover, this travel recap has got you covered. Jessica and I recently visited Boston, and we had an incredible time exploring this historic city. Thanks to JetBlue , who recently launched a route from Atlanta to Boston, we were able to fly in comfort and style.

Boston is a city that beckons travelers to create lasting memories, and there’s no better way to experience it than with a dear friend by your side. As you traverse the charming cobblestone streets and stroll through historical landmarks, the shared sense of wonder and excitement deepens the bond between friends.

The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine provide a captivating backdrop for unforgettable adventures. From duck boat tours to exploring the Freedom Trail together, Boston offers a plethora of activities that cater to diverse interests, ensuring both you and your friend have an exhilarating and enjoyable experience.

If you’re seeking a destination that seamlessly blends the old with the new, Boston deserves a prime spot on your travel wish list. This captivating city boasts a unique blend of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and lush green spaces, offering a dynamic and picturesque urban landscape.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast yearning to walk in the footsteps of revolutionaries or a foodie eager to indulge in culinary exploration, Boston presents an all-encompassing experience that leaves a lasting impression. With so much to offer, Boston promises an enchanting journey that you and your friend will cherish for a lifetime.

Our trip was made even more special with the help of the Boston Tourism Board and the Cambridge Tourism Board , who provided us with an amazing itinerary. Here are the 15 best things to do in Boston that made our trip unforgettable:

1. The Collonade Hotel:

For the perfect home away from home, look no further than The Colonnade Hotel in Boston’s Back Bay. With floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy beds, and amazing amenities, this hotel exceeded all expectations. The icing on the cake is their exclusive rooftop pool, making The Colonnade Hotel the ideal accommodation for your Boston stay.

2. The SkyWalk Tour:

Start your exploration with the SkyWalk Tour , offering 360-degree views of Boston from the Prudential Center’s 50th floor. Don’t forget to grab an audio handset to learn about the city’s rich history while enjoying breathtaking vistas.

3. The Duck Tour:

Hop on the iconic Duck Tour for a fun and educational experience, as you ride through the city’s streets and splash into the Charles River. Quack along with the guide and get to know Boston’s fascinating past.

4. The Historic Freedom Trail:

Follow the footsteps of history along the Freedom Trail , passing by significant sites such as Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere’s House, and the Massachusetts State House. Unfortunately, we couldn’t experience it due to the rain, but don’t miss it on your visit!

5. The Boston Public Library:

Step into a fairytale at the Boston Public Library , with its vast collection of over 6 million books. Wander through the enchanting reading rooms and marvel at the grandeur of this architectural masterpiece.

6. The Boston Public Garden:

Take a leisurely stroll through the Boston Public Garden , boasting vibrant greenery and blooming flowers. This picturesque oasis is perfect for capturing beautiful moments.

7. Beacon Hill and Acorn Street:

Explore the quaint streets of Beacon Hill, where you’ll find Acorn Street , a cobblestone lane lined with historic homes. Although steep and slippery, it’s worth a visit for the authentic Bostonian charm.

8. The Hahvahd Tour:

Venture across the river to Cambridge and join the Hahvahd Tour for an insider’s look at Harvard University. Delve into the campus’s rich history and see where notable figures like Mark Zuckerberg and Natalie Portman once lived.

9. Top of the Hub:

Savor a delectable meal at Top of the Hub , located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes while taking in breathtaking city views.

10. Avery Bar:

Head over to the Avery Bar at The Ritz-Carlton for a relaxing and moody atmosphere. Treat yourself to their signature cocktails and savor the honey-glazed pretzels while basking by the fireplace.

11. Post 390:

Experience culinary delight at Post 390 , where the house-made burrata with spring peas, strawberries, and asparagus is a must-try. The seafood tower is also an indulgence not to be missed.

12. Dig Inn:

For a scrumptious and healthy lunch, make your way to Dig Inn , where you can create your own veggie bowls filled with deliciousness. (photo from Dig Inn Instagram by @christianharder)

13. Kimpton Marlowe Hotel and Bambara:

Visit the newly redesigned brandy bar at the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel, where you can enjoy a delightful tasting experience with Dennis, the master bartender. Then, indulge in a delicious meal at Bambara .

14. Tatte Bakery:

Don’t miss the iconic Tatte Bakery , where you can relish an array of mouthwatering pastries, salads, and coffees. It’s an Insta-famous spot for a reason!

15. The Colonnade Hotel’s Rooftop Pool (RTP):

Wrap up your Boston adventure with a refreshing dip in The Colonnade Hotel’s iconic rooftop pool , complemented by breathtaking views and delicious breakfast options.

What To Pack For A Weekend Trip To Boston

When packing for a weekend trip to Boston, it’s essential to be prepared for varying weather conditions and a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. As Boston’s weather can be unpredictable, it’s wise to pack versatile clothing options. Bring layers such as light sweaters, cardigans, and a waterproof jacket, as the city experiences occasional rain and sudden temperature changes.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as much of Boston’s charm lies in exploring its historic streets on foot. Don’t forget to include a pair of sturdy sneakers for any outdoor adventures or sightseeing tours. For an evening out, consider packing a dressier outfit, as some of Boston’s upscale restaurants and entertainment venues may have dress codes.

Lastly, remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, and a crossbody bag to carry your belongings while exploring this vibrant city. With a well-thought-out and adaptable packing list, you can enjoy a delightful and hassle-free weekend getaway to Boston.

Boston offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it an ideal destination for any traveler. From iconic landmarks to delectable eateries, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags and embark on your own adventure to Beantown soon. If you loved this travel recap, stay tuned for more exciting trips and travel content. A special thanks to JetBlue, Boston USA, and Cambridge USA for making our journey unforgettable. Safe travels!

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13 Comments

I’ve always wanted to go to Boston! Definitely bookmarking this travel guide!

http://www.rdsobsessions.com

Oh you’ll love it! But def go when it’s warm!! Like June/July/August, LOL! xoxo Cathy

Ah I love Boston so much! You’re making me want to go back stat!! Glad y’all had such a good time.

xo Laura Leigh http://www.louellareese.com

It really is such an amazing city! I can’t wait to go back one day! xoxo Cathy

I live just West of Boston, and I’ve been there a million times, but it’s really fun to see it from a new perspective! Kisses, Sarah EverydayStarlet

So jealous, what a gorgeous city to live near! xoxo Cathy

YES! More travel posts please!

You got it! xoxo Cathy

Loved this post! Your pictures are gorgeous! I just also did a travel recap for D.C.! http://www.allthatjae.com

Thank you so much! xoxo Cathy

I’m going to Boston for the first time next week and really enjoyed reading about your trip! Thanks for a putting together this great travel guide!

Oh I’m so glad to hear that, have fun!! xoxo Cathy

Wow. This looks like an exhaustive guide to Boston. I never knew so much about it… I loved your photos! I would surely want to explore it. Thanks for sharing :)

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BEST BOSTON 2-DAY ITINERARY: FUN THINGS YOU MUST DO

A Boston 2-day itinerary will immerse you in the history of the founding of the United States. But it’s not all history. The great food, architecture and fun destinations you find in this city make for a fantastic Boston weekend getaway or any 2 days in Boston.

>> Download a PDF of this itinerary here ! <<

To See Boston in 2 Days, Start with The Freedom Trail

If you want to do Boston in 2 days, and it’s your first time in Boston, I recommend you start with a visit to the Freedom Trail.

The Freedom Trail is a “must-do.” This is a 2.5 mile (4.4 km) in Boston that covers 16 historic sites of critical importance to the history of the early United States. The tour starts at Boston Commons and ends at the U.S.S. Constitution and Bunker Hill Memorial at Charleston.

What’s good about this tour is that it will give you a great introduction to Boston proper. You’ll also get an in-depth exploration of key historical events that took place in the city while you are standing in the spot where they occurred.

You’ve got several options to do the Freedom Trail. You can take a tour with Freedom Trail Tours and visit these sites with a knowledgeable tour guide. Or, you can obtain a Freedom Trail map at any one of the tourist kiosks throughout the city and follow the trail on your own.

The actual trail is a well-marked red brick walk that you follow throughout the city. It’s fun to go at your own pace, visit at leisure whatever museum strikes your fancy, and stop along the way for snacks, drinks, or photo opportunities.

If you’ve already been to Boston and want to explore the city in-depth on your Boston 2-day itinerary trip, skip the Freedom Trail. Instead, hit key Boston sights and absorb all the city has to offer.

One transportation option you may want to consider is the Hop-on-hop-off. I personally love these inner-city trolleys and buses. They save you time and take you to the most important attractions.

I also love walking the routes if I have more time and the attractions are close to each other.

Day 1 of Your 2-day Boston Itinerary

Copley square.

I like to start a Boston 2-day itinerary at Copley Square because it is centrally located. It is a beautiful plaza surrounded by interesting architecture and many of Boston’s best hotels. The square is in the Back Bay neighborhood known for shopping and good restaurants. Back Bay is served by the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) Green subway line which connects seamlessly to all parts of the city.

The buildings surrounding Copley Square are impressive architecturally, but my favorite is the Boston Public Library with its two massive statues guarding the entrance.

Boston Common

From Copley Square, head to Boston Common just two blocks east and work your way to the Beacon Street side on the north edge of the park. This is the oldest park in the United States. The park’s interesting statuary, old-fashion carousel, a little lake, and wide expanses of green make for a beautiful stroll.

As you wander Boston, you will find many sites claiming to be the oldest bar, park, restaurant, or building in the United States. That’s part of the charming history that permeates this town.

Beacon Hill

Exit Boston Common Beacon Street’s north side and dive into the United States’ oldest and most iconic neighborhoods, Beacon Hill . Walking through Beacon Hill is like stepping back in time.

You’ll see narrow, cobblestone streets, gaslight street lamps, and picturesque gardens in what is one of Boston’s most expensive neighborhoods. Make sure to visit Acorn street for a great photo opportunity.

The Massachusetts State House

Make your way back to Beacon Street and follow it east until you come to the Massachusetts State House easily recognizable by its golden dome. This is the state’s seat of government.

Built in 1798, the art and architecture in this building will amaze you. The entrance is free. Make sure to take a free 30- to 45-minute tour available 10 am to 3:30 pm on weekdays or take your own walking tour through the well-marked displays.

Granary Burying Ground

From the State House head south on Park street and left on Tremont Street where you will find the Granary Burying Ground , an iconic and fascinating cemetery.

I love cemeteries. I love their quiet, peaceful beauty and the history, insight, and soul you glean from reading the tombstones. The Granary Burying Ground is one of the United States’ most significant cemeteries from a historical perspective.

The cemetery was founded in 1660! In fact, it is Boston’s third-oldest cemetery. That means that some of the original settlers in Boston could have been buried there.

The people that ARE buried here include three signers of the Declaration of Independence. Also present is Paul Revere who, with his trusty steed, rode through the nascent colony at night warning the settlers that the British were coming, thereby positively influencing the turn of the Revolutionary War.

The cemetery is also the site of the Franklin family mausoleum, although Benjamin Franklin is not buried here. He is in Philadelphia, a city he loved where he founded the University of Pennsylvania.

The area around the Granary Burial Ground is a good place to catch your breath and get a snack or a drink before you continue your 2-day Boston itinerary.

Irish Famine Memorial

Just one street away from the Granary Burial Ground you will find the Irish Famine Memorial on School Street.

Boston claims the most concentrated Irish population for a city in the U.S., 20.4%. Therefore, the Irish Famine Memorial and its history mean a lot there.

This display commemorates the 1845 Irish Famine that caused one million deaths in Ireland and one and a half million destitute Irish to come to the United States seeking refuge.

It is a touching, poignant memorial, a fitting tribute to one of the many immigrant communities that made the United States what it is today.

New England Holocaust Memorial

A pleasant walk north on Congress Street will bring you to Union Street and another moving tribute to an historical event of epic proportions, the New England Holocaust Memorial . This is a glass exhibit displaying poignant impressions from the Holocaust victims. We walked through it in the rain which somehow made the exhibit that much more touching.

This is a unique memorial and a must-see in Boston.

Union Oyster House

Across the street from the New England Holocaust Memorial is the Union Oyster House . It is one of the oldest restaurants in the United States and the oldest in continuous operation since it opened. It looks it, too, with low-beamed ceilings, narrow stairs, and dark corners.

I like oysters, bars, history, and beer so this place suits me just fine. Sit at the circular wooden bar where Daniel Webster once sat eating oysters and downing whiskey. The oyster “shucker” (that’s a real word) shucks the oysters right in front of you and delivers a tasty treat so fresh you can taste the ocean. Wash it down with a local brew and soak it all in.

Have a lunch or dinner at the Union Oyster House, a great place to eat while you’re in Boston.

Day 2 of Your Boston 2-day Itinerary

Start day two in Boston with the last of the must-see Boston sights.

Right down the street from the Union Oyster House is Faneuil Hall Marketplace . You can’t miss it. It is a combination of separate markets: Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall, shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

You can easily spend several hours wandering the many markets especially if you have lunch here. They also have cute, little desserts and chocolate shops.

History buffs will appreciate that it was here, in 1764, that colonists first protested British taxation. It was here where the words “no taxation without representation” were first spoken and ignited the War of Independence. For this reason, this hall is called the Cradle of Liberty.

The top floor houses the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company and history abound everywhere you look.

Want More Options for Your Boston Itinerary?

Boston by night.

Boston shines at night with lots of options. Some include:

• Seeing a play in the Theater District
• Partying in one of the many clubs
• Wandering the waterfront area (also great at daytime)
• Taking in a haunted Boston tour

(By the way, New Orleans is the best city in the U.S. for ghostly goings-on. Take it from me who checks out ghost tours in every city I visit.)

Boston’s Museums

You may want to reserve what time you have left for visiting one or more of Boston’s great museums. Two come to mind. First the Boston Museum of Fine Arts . And if art is your thing, this is a full-day event, so keep that in mind. The MFA is the fifth largest museum in the U.S. with almost half a million pieces of art. It is right up there with the Met in New York or any of the top European museums.

The second must-see Boston museum is the Isabella Stewart Gardner. The location and the works inside were donated by the socialite it was named for. She created a cloister and a mansion to house her collection. When she died in 1924, she left the museum “for the education and enjoyment of the public forever.”

Boston has many other magnificent museums but if you’ve only got 2 days in Boston, try to hit these.

Boston’s North End – Little Italy

Your last must-see in Boston is the North End, where you will find Little Italy. I expected Boston’s Little Italy to be a bit on the touristy side with your standard pasta and pizza dishes. What I found were excellent restaurants serving traditional Italian cuisine at reasonable prices.

I had received a recommendation and tested it out to my absolute delight! Limoncello at 190 North Street in the heart of Boston’s Little Italy is a joy. It is a wonderful experience of delicious food, and attentive service in a beautiful environment at a fair price. Try it!

It’s also fun to walk around Boston’s North End with its interesting churches, yummy pastry and gelato shops, and shaded streets.

Boston is a cool town easy to fall in love with. Go for a weekend or more using this Boston 2-day itinerary as a base. What are some of your favorite spots in Boston? We’d love to know.

Know before you go.  Get a ton of insider info and background history on this great American city with these guides and reference materials.

BTW, if you are getting ready for your trip, make sure to take advantage of these useful,  money-saving links  to book your trip:

• Research and  book your flight  with  Skyscanner . I have found them to be the best because they list all airlines including the budget ones. You are always sure of having researched all options.
• For  car rental around the world, Discover Cars has flexible pickup and drop-off options, I recommend   Discover Cars .
• Book your accommodation  with  Booking.com . I find they have a wide selection and a nice, user-friendly, transparent website.
• Protect your trip  and, more importantly, protect yourself with travel insurance. I use  Travelinsurance.com  and have been very happy with them.
• Looking for a  small group tour  to unforgettable destinations with top professionals?  Intrepid Trave l is your choice.
• For more  general tours  to any destination or attraction,  book with   Viator . Check them out.
• Need a visa?   Get your visa  for all countries with   Passport Visa Exp ress.
• Looking for a cool walking tour to explore a city? My favorite walking tours are offered by Take Walks.
• Food and drink tours are the best way to enjoy a city. And Devour Tours are my favorite.
• Looking for a good VPN to protect your security, privacy and freedom online while traveling? Nordvpn is your best option.

I personally use, and can recommend, all the companies listed here and elsewhere on my blog. By booking through these sites, the small commission we earn – at no cost to you – helps us maintain this site so we can continue to offer our readers valuable travel tips and advice.

Talek Nantes

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One Day in Boston: The Best Boston Itinerary for 24 Hours

Posted on Published: April 4, 2021  - Last updated: April 6, 2021

Categories Blog , City Guides , Massachusetts , Travel Guides , United States

When you’re planning a trip to New England, you should spend at least one day in Boston. It’s an incredibly charming, historic American city that will leave you wanting more. I spent a week road tripping across the state of Massachusetts.

I spent a few days exploring Western Massachusetts and Northampton (known as “the other side of Massachusetts”), and a couple of days in North Central MA. Don’t miss the awesome beer scene in Johnny Appleseed Country .

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At the same time, you’ll want to incorporate 1 day in Boston within a larger New England trip. Spend 2 days in Boston if you can before moving on to other amazing destinations, like Portsmouth (New Hampshire ) , Southern Maine , and Portland, Maine.

While I had a little over 24 hours in Boston, I made the most of my time in the city by wandering around and seeing the most important Boston attractions. When you’re looking for things to do in Boston in one day, you know that it won’t be enough time.

Seeing any place in a day is always tricky. However, you can cover a lot of ground with the proper planning. I’ve got you covered in that regard! Here’s my one day in Boston itinerary for an awesome trip.

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Where to Stay in Boston

I managed to arrive in Boston during Friday afternoon rush hour traffic. I don’t recommend this. While I am used to driving in Toronto city traffic, which can be terrible at the best of times. Boston was on a whole other level. By the time I reached the hotel, I was feeling beyond stressed out.

Thankfully, the staff at the Lenox Hotel immediately eased my tension. They helped us with my luggage and the valet whisked my car away. I was happy to bid farewell to my car for the duration of my time in Boston. Between Uber and walking everywhere, there was no reason to deal with traffic jams and finding parking spaces.

Staying at the Lenox Hotel in Boston

The Lenox Hotel is the complete package: it’s romantic, luxurious, and has a prime location. I had an enormous room had two beds, a sitting area, a desk, and even a fireplace. From one window, I could gaze beyond this historic, brick hotel across the rooftops. From another window, I watched the most gorgeous sunset.

Summer sunsets in Boston are incredible, and it was such a treat to view it so perfectly from our hotel room. One of my favorite things about The Lenox was how easy it was to walk everywhere. It served as the best home base as it was right in the middle of town. I loved being able to leave the car behind and not worry. You can easily explore Boston on foot, too.

I stayed for two nights at the Lenox Hotel, although I could have easily stayed for longer. Even though this Boston itinerary gives you plans for 24 hours in Boston, I actually stayed here for about a day and a half. It’s the best accommodation, even if you are only discovering Boston in a day or two days. Book your stay at the Lenox Hotel or read more reviews by fellow travelers who have spent the night.

BOOK YOUR STAY

More Hotels in Boston

Want more choices? There are lots of incredible hotels in Boston . Here’s a handy booking tool where you can see all of the accommodations and vacation rentals in one place. It’s easy to compare prices and find the best rate for your trip to Boston.

Getting Around Boston

I drove my own car to Boston from Toronto on a road trip across New York and Massachusetts . Once I reached Boston, I parked my car at the hotel and didn’t need it in the city. I either walked around most places or took an Uber from place to place.

With that said, you might want access to a rental car during your stay in Boston. Perhaps you’d rather have the freedom to drive wherever you’d like. Boston is a pretty big place, and you won’t be able to get everywhere with walking alone. You also might want a rental car once you leave Boston if you continue on a New England road trip.

I love comparing car rental prices with Discover Cars. You can find the best rates by comparing the prices of various rental car companies to save some money. Here’s where you can compare rental car rates to find the best car rental in Boston.

BOOK YOUR RENTAL CAR

Boston CityPASS

If you plan to stay for one day in Boston, two days in Boston, or longer, I suggest getting your hands on a Boston CityPASS . You gain admission to four Boston attractions for one low price.

I recommend taking the Boston Harbor Cruise (more details below!), visiting the Museum of Science, and checking out the Harvard Museum of Natural History. You’ll save some cash and be able to visit some top Boston attractions and activities.

GET YOUR BOSTON CITYPASS

Go Boston Pass: Another Way to Save Money

I wasn’t able to take advantage of this option when I visited Boston, but it seems like a great deal to me. The Go Boston Pass allows you to save up to 55% on top attractions in the city. With the pass, you’ll get admission to over 40 activities and attractions, plus discounts on many others.

You have the option to choose a 1-, 2- , 3-, 5-, or 7-day pass. It’s perfect even if you’re wondering what to see in Boston in one day. It comes with a digital guidebook that helps you select your activities and map out your day.

GET THE GO BOSTON PASS

The Night Before: Dinner at By Chloe

Once I arrived to Boston in the late afternoon and got settled in at the Lenox Hotel, I was pretty hungry. It was time for dinner! If you end up spending two nights and one day in Boston, this is a great dining recommendation.

Even if you aren’t vegan or purely plant-based, By Chloe is a delicious option for everyone. It’s comfort food and fast food that’s quite a bit healthier than the standard fare. The menu items contain no meat, dairy, eggs, animal products, and they’re free of artificial flavors, preservatives, cholesterol, and animal saturated fats.

There are a wide variety of menu options, including burgers, sandwiches, pasta, sides, baked goods, ice cream, and more! You order at the front counter and the food is made fresh and fast. I ordered the Mac N Cheese – shell pasta with a sweet potato cashew cheese sauce, topped with shiitake bacon, and my travel buddy ordered a vegan hot dog with all the fixins’.

They’ve also got a great selection of desserts at the front, including vegan ice cream and cupcakes. By Chloe even has those little Hostess cupcakes, gone completely plant-based, of course!

One Day in Boston Itinerary: Must See Boston

Waking up feeling completely refreshed at The Lenox Hotel, we headed out for breakfast. Unfortunately, I had an epic blogger blunder and brought my camera…without its battery. The battery was still charging in the hotel room!

Thank goodness our breakfast place was a five minute walk from the hotel. I jogged back and grabbed the battery and made it back for breakfast shortly after it was prepared. For breakfast, I recommend dining at the Juice Press.

Breakfast at the Juice Press

Start the day off right! The Juice Press has two locations in Boston, and over 70 shops across the country. They’re a completely vegan establishment with the exception of honey in an item or two. The Juice Press has smoothies, smoothie bowls, juices, protein shakes, and light meals like salads and noodle jars.

I ordered the Acai Blueberry Bowl, which was nutritious and delicious. Made with banana, acai berry, blueberry, coconut nectar, maple, granola and maple toasted coconut flakes, it was satisfying and healthy. This is a great place to stop for a quick meal on the go, and I imagine that people working near the Juice Press love their grab and go lunch options.

Go Sightseeing With Boston Harbor Cruises

For my first Boston attraction during my one day in Boston, I boarded a boat to see the coast and city skyline. With Boston Harbor Cruises , you’ll view an entirely different side of Boston from the water. Cruise around for 90 minutes to view the city’s skyline and surrounding islands. We heard some interesting historical tales about Boston that you’ll just have to hear for yourself on the trip.

The cruises depart at set times throughout the day, so be sure to take a peek at their schedule before you head out. I recommend arriving early to make sure you ensure a spot on the boat, and also to get one of the best seats in the house.

Tip: I booked my cruise with the Boston CityPASS . This card saves you up to 45% on top Boston attractions, including a trip with Boston Harbor Cruises. Present your CityPASS voucher at the ticket booth to board the cruise.

All of the chairs face the same direction and for good reason – so you’re looking at the best view! Snag some seats in the front row like we did for the best viewing (and photo) opportunities. Another tip: wear sunscreen! After sitting out in the summer sun for an hour and a half, my shoulders were a little bit red.

I suggest starting your 24 hours in Boston with the harbor cruise so you can learn some historical facts and details about the city. It’s great to learn some interesting stories and perspectives before going sightseeing in Boston.

BOOK YOUR BOSTON HARBOR CRUISE

One Day in Boston: Visit the Boston Public Market

By now, you might be feeling a little bit hungry again. Head on over to the Boston Public Market , home to over 35 vendor stalls and open 7 days a week all year long. You can find locally sourced food from Massachusetts and New England. In this land of seafood, there are a few vegan options.

Inna’s Kitchen

I opted for a falafel pita at Inna’s Kitchen, which serves traditional Jewish cuisine from around the world. Super flavorful falafels, stuffed inside a pita with veggies and topped with tahini – you can’t go wrong with this one.

Jennifer Lee’s Allergy Free Bakery

Wander across the market to Jennifer Lee’s Allergy Free Bakery to indulge in some vegan desserts. From cookies to donuts, Jennifer has got your cravings covered. There are also sandwiches and paninis, too, although these sell out as the day goes on. Get your favorite while it lasts!

Time for Coffee: Thinking Cup Coffee Shop

The Boston Public Market was very busy around lunchtime and there weren’t many places to sit. We actually stood at the only free table to eat our lunch. In need of somewhere to rest our legs (and, as always, the desire to sip a cup of coffee), we walked across the way to the Thinking Cup coffee shop .

This cute and charming cafe was the perfect place to pause on a day of adventures. The coffee was strong and there were even some vegan and gluten-free options for food. Even though I was really full from lunch, I’d consider going back for more dessert here if I had 2 days in Boston or more.

Things to Do in Boston: North End Park

On a hot day, don’t you wish you could run through a sprinkler like when you were a kid? Well, fear not. North End Park is a grassy patch in the middle of the city where the young and young at heart can go for a roam through the fountains. If you’ve got one day in Boston and happen to be walking past, why not check out this darling little green space?

Well, maybe it wasn’t designed for a grown-up travel blogging lady to go prancing through…but, why not? I also adored the urban garden bursting with greenery and flowers in the middle of the park. It’s a great picnic spot, or even just an area to cool down from the summer heat.

Must See in Boston: Beacon Hill

Who wouldn’t love wandering around an enchanting, historic neighborhood? As you stroll around the streets of Beacon Hill, you’ll notice colonial row houses, brick sidewalks, cobblestone streets, antiquated iron fences, and painted front doors.

On Beacon Street itself, walk past the captivating Massachusetts State House with its majestic pillars and impressive golden dome. Then, take a detour towards Acorn Street, one of the most photographed streets in the United States. You can’t help but immediately fall for this neighborhood.

It’s always a good idea to take a walking tour with a knowledgeable guide. On this two hour walking tour , you’ll learn lots of intriguing stories and facts about Boston. The tour includes visits to King’s Chapel, the Massachusetts State House, Beacon Hill, and more.

BOOK YOUR WALKING TOUR OF BOSTON

Boston in 24 Hours: See the Boston Public Garden

The Public Garden quickly became one of my favorite places to visit in Boston. When spending one day in Boston, you must add the Public Garden to your travel plans. Established in 1837, it’s the first public botanical garden in the USA.

The garden showcases over 80 species of plants and flowers initially cultivated in local greenhouses. It is free to wander and explore. From paddling around in a Swan Boat to admiring the fountains and statues, a jaunt around Boston’s Public Garden is something you simply must do.

Make Way For Ducklings

While you’re there, say hello to the adorable “ Make Way For Ducklings ” statues and greet the real ducks that grace the lagoon. Relax beneath a weeping willow tree on a warm, summer day, and you might never want to leave this oasis in the city.

I also managed to see some real ducklings in addition those of the statue variety. There were also other residents of the park: squirrels, chipmunks, pigeons and birds.

Monuments and Statues

Boston Public Garden and Boston Common have many monuments and statues dedicated to important figures throughout history. Stop to discover these plaques and memorials whether you’re visiting the park or walking the Freedom Trail.

Boston Common and the Freedom Trail

Although we didn’t spend a lot of time exploring the Freedom Trail, I’d start here upon my return to Boston. Start at Boston Common, America’s oldest public park, founded in 1634. Boston Common has loads of walking paths, a vintage carousel, a frog pond (that becomes a skating rink in the winter), and many monuments.

Prepare to be fascinated by 16 historically significant sites, from churches to burying grounds. For more information, including a detailed map, please check out the Freedom Trail’s official website .

Dinner at Artbar Cambridge

After a day of wandering, we were pretty starving. Enter ArtBar Cambridge . The chef prepared a special vegan meal for the both of us, and it was incredibly delicious. On the menu, everything that’s vegetarian is marked with a “V”.

Be sure to inquire in advance if you follow a vegan diet, as I’m sure you can savor an equally magical dining experience to the one that I did! This meal matched the summer patio weather so well, starting with a chilled peach and watermelon soup.

From there, we were served a flavorful pesto vegetable flatbread, topped with artichokes and arugula. The main course was falafel served over couscous. At the end of the meal, we devoured a tart fruit sorbet with ripe berries. To drink, what could be better than a watermelon sling?

The view was almost as good as the food, as we admired scenery of the sun setting over the harbor as we dined.

Want to see more photos of Boston?

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Extended One Day in Boston: Stay for Breakfast

Before heading out the next morning, I went for breakfast at a nearby restaurant with the best name ever, The Friendly Toast . It’s a pretty popular place and often difficult to get a table right away. Fear not: the restaurant puts you on a list, and they’ll text you when your table is ready. Pretty cool, eh?

The Friendly Toast has a wild, eclectic design. There are lots of kitschy knickknacks on the bar, shelves, and hanging from the ceiling. Even our table had a little ceramic owl on it.

The menu has a few vegan breakfast items, including a breakfast burrito and a tofu scramble. I ordered the vegan pancakes with a side of home fries. It ended up being way too much food, although I don’t regret the decision as both the pancakes and potatoes were very yummy.

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2 Days in Boston: More Things to Do in Boston

Planning to stay longer than just one day in Boston? I can hardly blame you! Boston is such a fascinating city with so many things to see and do. Here are some more ideas for your Boston travel itinerary that I’m adding to my list for the next time I visit.

• Harvard University Tour : Embark on a student led tour of Harvard
• Explore more of Cambridge after visiting Harvard. There are lots of squares, cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and more.
• Boston Craft Beer Tour : Go behind the scenes at three local craft breweries
• Check out a sporting event, like a Boston Red Sox game at Fenway Park
• Besides the Boston Public Market, there are other great markets to check out. Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a marketplace district that’s home to Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market.
• Go for a walk on the Charles River Esplanade
• Check out the Skywalk Observatory for epic city views

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Thursday 14th of March 2024

We are heading to New England from Ottawa and your blog has been very helpful. Staying in Portsmouth and Plymouth so thanks for all the tips.

Lauren Yakiwchuk

Friday 15th of March 2024

Thank you so much, Britta! I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Monday 6th of December 2021

Nice blog! Thanks for sharing amazing travel guide with beautiful pictures.

Wednesday 14th of November 2018

Hey! Love the pictures – just wondering, what camera do you use? Or are you using a smart phone? Lmk!

Thursday 15th of November 2018

I use a Panasonic Lumix GH4 to take mostly all of my pics - I just use my smartphone for Instagram really! I've written all about the photography gear I use here if you'd like to take a look: https://justinpluslauren.com/essential-travel-photography-gear-guide/ :)

Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net)

Monday 25th of December 2017

Fun day! We have yet to actually spend a day IN Boston. It's always a transit point to someplace else. We really need to change that! Love the Public Garden, and the Harbor Cruise - great ideas.

Friday 22nd of December 2017

Boston is a great road trip stop! The harbor cruise was great and yes, the guides tell so much interesting info that I would have never guessed! Definitely hit up the market, too.

How to Spend One Perfect Day in Boston, MA (Itinerary + Tips!)

Boston is one of our absolute favorite cities in the USA, and luckily, even one day in Boston, MA is enough to get an overview of what makes the city so special!

We once spent a delightful summer living in Boston, and return visits have continued to leave us increasingly enchanted with the city.

With its gorgeous architecture, deep ties to American history, and impressive walkability, Boston is incredibly fun to explore, whether you have a mere 24 hours in Boston or months to uncover Beantown’s best attractions.

We designed this one day Boston itinerary to help you discover as many of the city’s highlights as possible in a single day–all of which are found along a walkable route!

The famous Freedom Trail, the charming North End (also known as Boston’s Little Italy), stately Beacon Hill, and the bustling Market District are all touched on here, and our hope is that you say goodbye to Boston already excited to plan your next visit.

Here’s how to see the best of Boston in a day!

Table of Contents

The Perfect One Day in Boston Itinerary

What about the freedom trail, where to stay in boston, ma, more than 24 hours in boston, getting around during one day in boston, quick tips for seeing boston in a day, read more about visiting boston (and new england), your one day boston itinerary map.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Start your morning in the Boston Public Garden.

The Boston Public Garden is one of our favorite places in the city and the perfect place to kick off your day in Boston.

The garden is quiet and beautiful, and it’s a great place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy a bit of peace in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.

With only 24 hours in Boston (or less, if you’re planning a day trip to Boston) you don’t need to spend long here, but it’s worth stopping by and makes a convenient starting point.

Be sure to check out the Make Way for Ducklings Statue, put in place for the famous children’s book that features Boston, while you’re there! If you’d like to enjoy views of the Public Garden from the water, the swan paddle boats in the garden’s pond are famously inexpensive at $3.00/ride.

Stroll through the Boston Common and enjoy views of the Massachusetts State House.

Located right next door to the Public Garden, the Boston Common is the heart and soul of the city.

Established in 1634, it’s the oldest public park in the USA–though the surroundings are quite a bit different than they were back in the 17th century!

Today, the Common is extremely centrally located, and within a few minutes walk from here you can be in Beacon Hill, in Back Bay, at the Massachusetts State House, in the Theater District, shopping at Downtown Crossing (where you’ll find all the standard chain stores), or exploring a piece of American history (which, of course, the Boston Common itself also is).

The park is gorgeous to walk through–be sure to take in plenty of views of the gold-domed Massachusetts State House while you’re there!

Meander through Beacon Hill, one of the prettiest places to visit in Boston.

Located directly north of the Boston Common (more or less behind the state house), Beacon Hill is widely considered one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Boston and is my personal favorite to explore.

This is where you’ll find the Boston that you see on postcards: redbrick mansions, black shutters, a cobblestone path or two, tree-lined streets.

We recommend walking from Boston Common up to Louisburg Square, which boasts some of the most prestigious addresses in Boston (former Secretary of State John Kerry lives here).

From there, take a quick stroll to Acorn Street to take advantage of one of Boston’s most photogenic spots.

Just be sure to be cognizant of the residents as you snap photos!

Beacon Hill is a very residential neighborhood, and while photos and admirers are generally welcome, blocking doorways and climbing stoops is not.

Stop by Park Street Church and the Granary Hill Burying Ground.

After enjoying a bit of time in Beacon Hill, head back down to Boston Common and pay a visit to the Park Street Church and Granary Burying Ground, which are located right next door to the Common.

While you can see the bulk of the cemetery from the street, it’s a shady, peaceful spot, and worth a quick peek inside (only a quick one, though: this one day Boston itinerary features a somewhat outsized number of burying grounds).

As you step inside, you’ll notice a large monument with a very familiar name in Granary Burying Ground!

Benjamin Franklin’s parents are buried here, and a monument to the family is erected toward the center of the cemetery.

Visit King’s Chapel and Burying Ground.

The King’s Chapel is my favorite church in Boston to go inside–not because it is ornate, but because it is so unusual among US churches.

Built originally as an Anglican Church in the 18th century, the church has enclosed “boxes” instead of rows of pews.

Originally, prominent families who were members of the church would have a box of their own that they would sit in each Sunday.

The King’s Chapel still has an active congregation–but these days, instead of Anglicans, Unitarians call the chapel home.

Sample the original Boston Creme Pie at the Omni Parker House.

Think you need to make a reservation and sit down to a meal to eat the original Boston Creme Pie?

You definitely don’t!

The Omni Parker House has a small shop on the first floor selling the delicious cakes, and stopping to pick one up is a great way to sample the flavor without eating up too much of your one day in Boston (pun intended).

If you want to also try the original Parker House rolls (which are, in fact, delicious), then consider following in the footsteps of Ulysses S. Grant, John F. Kennedy, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and many more by planning a meal ( or even an overnight stay ) at the Omni Parker House as well.

Stop to admire the Old Corner Bookstore.

The former home of Anne Hutchinson has acted as a bookstore, an apothecary, a private home, a Boston Globe souvenir shop, a diamond store, and now a Chipotle: talk about evolution!

The building is still worth a nod as you go by, though (and is officially part of the Freedom Trail, despite its concurrent status as a place to grab a burrito).

The Old Corner Bookstore also happens to be set right across from the Irish Famine Memorial–a striking statue worth taking a look at during your day visiting Boston.

Pay a visit to the Old State House and the site of the Boston Massacre.

As the oldest surviving public building in Boston, the Old State House has seen more than its fair share of American history!

This building was once the seat of the colonial government, then became the seat of the Massachusetts state government, and eventually Boston City Hall.

And, of course, it was the site of an important moment in the American Revolution: the Boston Massacre, which is commemorated with a plaque in the exact location of the altercation.

The Old State House has been a museum since the 19th century, after more than 100 years in public service and a brief stint as a commercial building.

As you wander your way through Boston on your way to the Old State House, be sure to note the Old South Meeting House along the way!

Head to the Boston Market District to browse (and snack).

The Market District is easily one of the most iconic places to visit in Boston, and a must-see when sampling Boston in a day!

Made up of several markets that are found in very close proximity to each other, there have been markets operating in this area since at least 1743.

Starting with the most famous (though not necessarily the best place to shop), keep an eye out for:

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Made up of closely located Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market, this is the heart of Boston’s historic market district.

It’s also one of the most touristy places in the USA, comparably with places like Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco or Navy Pier in Chicago .

It’s definitely worth stopping by this historic spot during your day in Boston, but we wouldn’t recommend spending long here (and based on the usual levels of crowds, you probably won’t want to).

Boston Public Market

Looking to purchase some New England specialties, whether to devour immediately or to take home as souvenirs?

Boston Public Market is the perfect spot for that: featuring exclusively New England-based products and companies, you can pick up anything from produce to donuts to crafts here.

This is one of my favorite spots in Boston–and not just because of how good the ice cream is!

If you’re lucky enough to have your 24 hours in Boston overlap with a Friday or Saturday, be sure to swing by Haymarket (located right in front of the Boston Public Market) to check out a fabulous farmer’s market!

Pause at the New England Holocaust Memorial.

Right in between the Boston Public Market/Haymarket area and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace sits the sobering New England Holocaust Memorial.

It takes very little time to walk through–no line, no entrance fee–but is absolutely worth taking a moment to slow down and appreciate.

Make your way into the North End for some sightseeing.

Boston’s North End (also known as “Little Italy”, though you won’t catch a local calling it that) is the oldest neighborhood in Boston and a fascinating sort of place.

Once a neighborhood popular with Italian immigrants, today it is more popular with tourists thanks to its beautiful architecture, many historic sights, dozens of restaurants, and famous pastry shops.

Here are a few things to be sure to check out when visiting the North End!

Paul Revere House

The oldest remaining building in downtown Boston once belonged to none other than Paul Revere!

Whether you head inside for a tour as part of your one day Boston itinerary, or simply admire the facade as you stroll by, be sure to note this piece of American history sitting in the North End.

Old North Church

And speaking of Paul Revere…

The whole “one if by land, two if by sea” story?

That lantern was said to have been hung here, at the Old North Church (which also happens to be the oldest church in Boston that is still standing today).

You’ll find a statue of Paul Revere on his horse nearby as well.

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground + The Spite House

Boston’s second-oldest cemetery holds more than 1200 marked graves that include plenty of notable burials from the colonial era… but that’s not the only reason to visit.

Right across the street from Copp’s Hill Burying Ground sits the Spite House (also known as the Skinny House), which is home to one of my favorite Boston stories.

As the story goes, two brothers inherited land from their father.

While one was away serving in the American Civil War, the other brother built a large home, taking over part of the soldier’s inheritance.

When the soldier returned home, he built the “Spite House”–incredibly skinny, and yet incredibly effective at blocking his brother’s view.

The legitimacy of the story is somewhat questionable, but it’s a classic Boston tale.

Enjoy an Italian-American dinner in the North End.

While the North End is indisputably touristy today, it still serves up incredible Italian-American food… if you know where to look.

Like many iconic neighborhoods around the world, you’ll find a mix of mediocre-to-terrible tourist traps and delicious restaurants here, so it’s imperative to check reviews before sitting down!

We have loved our experiences at both Ristorante Euno and Tresca (pictured below: everything was delicious, but their house special of chicken parm made with vodka sauce was a standout!).

Not in the mood for Italian-American food?

I can’t say I understand, but you do have options!

The Bell in Hand Tavern (the burger is one of my favorites) and the Union Oyster House are both Boston classics that you can find nearby, and Neptune Oyster is another excellent option (I’m not an oyster fan and found plenty of tasty options when visiting).

More into ambiance than anything and not ready to hang up your sightseeing hat?

A scenic dinner cruise on the Boston Harbor might be right for you!

Book your dinner cruise on the Boston Harbor today!

… and some classic pastries for dessert!

If you’ve heard one thing about eating dessert (and specifically cannoli) in the North End, it’s probably about how delicious Mike’s Pastry is.

If you’ve heard two things, it’s probably that Modern Pastry is better and more “unknown”.

Here’s what we can tell you firsthand: Modern Pastry is tasty (though it’s no longer unknown and getting more popular every day), and the line at Mike’s Pastry is always too long for us to bother with (though we’ve heard from others it dies down sometimes–if you visit in the winter, you might get lucky!).

Looking for something slightly further off the beaten path?

We found the beautiful Caffé Vittoria thanks to my stepmom (a Boston local of 30 years) and it’s now our go-to pastry spot in the North End, with great prices, a beautiful interior, and delicious desserts.

If you know of one attraction in Boston, it’s probably the Freedom Trail.

This famous 2.5-mile sightseeing trail covers 16 historical sights related to American history in Boston and it is easily (and deservedly!) one of the most popular things to do in the city.

So don’t worry–it’s definitely on the list!

In fact, the vast majority of the  16 sights on the Freedom Trail  are covered as part of this one day Boston itinerary, including the Boston Common, Park Street Church, King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall, every historical sight I discuss in the North End, and more.

By following this Boston itinerary, you’ll spend quite a bit of time walking the Freedom Trail, and you’ll have tons of opportunities to check out the brick markings that denote where it leads!

Rather than simply list something so vague and malleable as part of the itinerary, though, we wanted to be sure to give specific suggestions.

After all, the trail can be seen in any order and doesn’t need to be seen all at once!

With only 24 hours in Boston, you likely won’t be able to tour the interior of each building, but you’ll see them from the outside and can pick and choose which ones to enter.

With only 24 hours in Boston, we recommend staying somewhere close to a Boston T (metro) stop that is near the center of the action.

The North End is a tempting option, but it is fairly difficult to get in and out of.

Back Bay or the Historic Downtown area along the Freedom Trail are both ideal places to stay.

The Theatre District (near Downtown Crossing and Chinatown) is another solid option with a great central location.

If budget is an issue, you may need to go a bit further out. That’s not a problem–just make sure you’re within walking distance of a T stop!

For budget travelers not willing to sacrifice on location, the HI Boston Hostel is a great option.

Mid-range travelers will love the location (and breakfast) at the Boston Park Plaza .

Want access to a kitchenette in your room? Copley House features some studios and apartments!

For travelers looking to splurge, the Boston Omni Parker House Hotel has it all: history, a prime location on the Freedom Trail, plenty of ambiance, and of course, the original Parker House rolls and Boston cream pie served right on-site.

Check rates & book your stay in Boston today!

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 24 hours in Boston, it’s safe to say that you absolutely will not run out of things to do!

With a full weekend in Boston or more, the first things we’d recommend adding on would be plenty of time exploring the neighborhood of Back Bay, getting out on the water with a whale-watching cruise or harbor cruise , and visiting at least one museum.

Boston is chock full of world-class museums, but you can’t go wrong with the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (the Venetian-style building alone is worth a visit, and the museum is famously the victim of a heist ), the Museum of Science, or the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum (especially if you’re visiting Boston with kids, but it’s fun for all ages).

Other fun things to do in Boston include visiting Fenway (or even attending a Red Sox game), saying hello to the penguins at the New England Aquarium, or digging into some of Boston’s hidden gems and visiting quirky attractions like the Mapparium (one of the most memorable maps we’ve ever laid eyes on!).

If you’d like to complete the Freedom Trail, the USS Constitution, and the Bunker Hill Memorial are both a bit further from the city center than the attractions covered in this one day Boston itinerary, but they’re well worth a visit!

And, while it doesn’t make sense with only 24 hours in Boston, if you are staying longer and checking out some of the above attractions, be sure to price out a Boston Go Card to see if it can save you money on your trip!

Here’s our full guide to 55 cool things to do in Boston.

Thanks in large part to the fact that Boston’s historic core was built long before horseless carriages took over the roadways, the best things to do with a day in Boston are found surprisingly close together!

This entire one day in Boston itinerary is found along a walkable route that takes about an hour in total to cover, though that depends highly on how much you meander in places like the Boston Common and Beacon Hill (and meandering is truly one of the best parts of visiting Boston).

Walking doesn’t appeal?

If so, the wildly popular Boston Duck Tour or a Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour might be right for you.

If you want to trim just some walking, or need an efficient way to get back to your hotel at the end of the night, Boston’s subway system (the T) has several stops near this route that you can take advantage of.

If you’re driving into the city for the day, there’s a very convenient parking garage right under the Boston Common that will deliver you more or less right to the starting point of this Boston itinerary.

Alternatively, you could park in a garage outside the city center and take one of the commuter rails into the city (less convenient, but generally less expensive and allows you to avoid driving into the city center).

Pick and choose your indoor attractions (weather permitting).

This itinerary for Boston mentions several buildings-turned-small-museums that don’t take long to step inside individually, but add up to eat up a decent chunk of your day (and in the case of some, your wallet).

For places like the King’s Chapel, Old South Meeting House, Paul Revere’s House, etc., we’re assuming that you’ll see each from the outside as you walk the Freedom Trail, and pick and choose which to enter based on your personal sightseeing style.

And, you may be more inclined to spend more time inside museums on a winter day than a summer one!

Tickets generally run between $5 and $15 per adult for each attraction.

Some Freedom Trail attractions, like Faneuil Hall , the Boston Common, and the burying grounds, are free to visit.

Don’t want to walk? Consider a Duck Tour.

Cheesy? Yes.

Entertaining? Absolutely.

Boston’s Duck Tours are famous for the unmistakable truck-slash-boat contraptions that they cart tourists around in by both land and sea, and they’re very popular with visitors of all ages.

Corniness aside, if you’re looking for an excellent way to get an overview of Boston’s most famous sights and history without too much walking, a Duck Tour might be the right choice for you!

The tours do sell out, especially in the summer, so be sure to book in advance if you want to make a Duck Tour part of your 24 hour Boston itinerary!

Book your duck tour in Boston today!

… but wandering is at least half the fun.

I truly can’t overstate this enough: Boston is one of the absolute best cities in the US to explore on foot (personally, I’d say Savannah is the other city closest to its level, with places like New York , Charleston , and New Orleans also ranking extremely close).

If you arrive in Boston with dry weather and no mobility issues, wear your most comfortable shoes and spend the day hitting the pavement!

You’ll see and experience much more on foot in Boston than you would any other way, and hopefully have a lot of fun as you do.

Keep the season in mind.

Boston is an extremely seasonal destination, with sightseeing crowds peaking in the summer and fall (when the fall foliage is at its best in New England, the crowds are plentiful in Boston).

… but Boston can be enjoyed year-round.

Summer and fall may be most popular, but there are benefits to visiting Boston year-round… as long as you’re willing to bundle up!

Winter, while cold and dark, is a much less crowded time to spend a day in Boston (and it’s much easier on the wallet).

Spring brings temperamental weather, but increasingly longer days and the fun of watching the city wake up.

With a big enough coat and thick enough boots, we’d be happy to visit Boston year-round.

Make your dinner reservations in advance.

This itinerary for Boston in a day suggests having dinner in Boston’s famous North End… and while the experience is absolutely worth it, you don’t want to show up without a reservation!

The neighborhood’s restaurant scene is incredibly popular, and without planning ahead, you may end up finding yourself without a table–or worse, at a tourist trap restaurant rather than a delicious one.

Same-day or next-day reservations are generally all that’s needed on weekdays and/or if you’re willing to eat on the early or late side, but ideally, it’s best to plan at least a couple of days in advance (or longer if you’re heading out on a summer Saturday night and are hoping to nab a table at a trendy new place).

Planning a trip to Boston soon, and want to keep reading?

You can browse all of our 100+ USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• 55 Best Things to Do in Boston (+ Travel Tips!)
• 21 Best Places to Visit in New England
• 17 Fun Weekend Getaways from Boston
• 15 Amazing Things to Do in Acadia National Park
• 15 Wicked Fun Quotes About Boston

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

As Massachusetts' capital and the birthplace of the American Revolution, there's no shortage of historical sites for travelers to explore within Boston's city limits (and beyond). There's even a Boston Tea Party Museum on the harbor

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

Stretching 2½ miles, the Freedom Trail weaves past 16 of the city's most historic sites, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace , the Paul Revere House and Old North Church . Taking in all of the trail's attractions requires at least half a day (and some comfortable walking shoes), but you can easily plot points of interest before you begin your jaunt from Boston Common .

Though most visitors agree the trail is easy to navigate on your own, some recommend a guided tour or downloading an app to tell you about the sites. (You'll find a handful of apps available for Apple and Android devices.) If you have a Go Boston Card, standard guided tours given by the Freedom Trail Foundation are covered by your pass.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every Friday and Saturday, Haymarket (one America's oldest open-air markets) pops up adjacent to Faneuil Hall. In order to navigate this often-chaotic scene successfully make sure to bring small bills, leave bulky bags at the hotel and keep it moving on the sidewalk. - Jill LeGrow

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall. Built in 1742 and now a stop on the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." From those illustrious days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants.

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

Though the Boston Public Garden sits right next to Boston Common , the two are quite different. The public garden is newer (established in 1837) and holds the distinction of being America's first public botanical garden. Flowers and trees are beautifully organized and kept in quality condition throughout. You can see the colorful arrangements and exotic trees from the 6-acre pond as you glide along the water in a Swan Boat. Additionally, the park houses two of Boston's most iconic statues: Make Way for Ducklings (a bronze sculpture of a duck and her eight ducklings) and a sculpture of George Washington (which shows America's first president riding on a horse).

Visitors looking to relax after sightseeing will enjoy the Boston Public Garden. Parkgoers say you'll find plenty of shade beneath the park's trees, which comes in handy on hot summer days. Plus, you'll likely spot some ducks and geese swimming around the lagoon. And if you have a few dollars, visitors recommend taking a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat. The large paddle boats cost $4.50 to ride (or $3 for kids ages 2 to 15 and $4 for seniors); travelers with Go Boston Cards ride for free. Swan Boats are usually available between mid-April and Labor Day.

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North End North End free

Chances are you'll end up in the North End at least once during your visit to Boston. It's steeped in the city's rich history as it holds the title of Boston's oldest neighborhood and houses three attractions on the Freedom Trail . What makes this neighborhood a top point of interest, however, is its Italian culture: The North End is considered Boston's Little Italy.

While Italians weren't the first to settle in this area (English settlers arrived first then European Jews, African Americans and Irish immigrants), their cultural influence on the North End withstood the test of time. Today, you'll find all kinds of Italian food from classic pizza pies served at the popular Regina Pizzeria to Sicilian-style seafood, such as black linguine (made with squid ink) and calamari meatballs at The Daily Catch . For dinner, try Mamma Maria for fine dining, Giacomo's for its affordable, made-in-house pasta or Bricco , which sources its meats and bread from its own meat and bread shop, located right next door. If you’re only interested in pizza, hit up Galleria Umberto for delectable solo slices or Antico Forno for its full-size, wood-fired pies. Prezza is known for its extensive wine list, boasting hundreds of wine labels to choose from. For dessert, make sure to pick up a cannoli at Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry , or tiramisu at the 24-hour Bova's Bakery .

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

If you want to make the most out of the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most comprehensive art institutions in the country, then you'll need to spend a good chunk of your day here. The museum is home to one of the best art collections in the world, including the celebrated Art of the Americas wing. Inside this sprawling collection, you'll encounter galleries showcasing iconic pieces from indigenous cultures in North, South and Central America to works by contemporary artists like Edward Hopper.

You'll also find an impressive collection of Asian art here, plus works from Monet, Renoir, Manet and Rembrandt on display. And in special temporary exhibits, you can admire masterpieces from Black artists like Diedrick Brackens and Picasso, among others.

Boston Common Boston Common free

The grounds of Boston Common started as a cow pasture in the mid-1600s. It was also used for Puritan punishments, like whipping, and even for hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common is best known because of its status as the oldest public park in the country. You'll also find a variety of activities and events – including theater and musical performances and free fitness classes – hosted here throughout the year. If you plan to traverse the Freedom Trail , you'll start the walk here at Boston Common.

Though some visitors say you won't find much to do in this park, Boston Common is great for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Travelers also mention that this site is a wonderful spot to take young children. In addition to ample running room on the park's green space, kids can play at the Tadpole Playground or Frog Pond. Frog Pond offers a spray pool during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in the winter. Some visitors do note that the park tends to draw Boston's homeless population, particularly at night.

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Fenway Park Fenway Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to watch a Sox game without a ticket, head to the Bleacher Bar on Lansdowne Street. Located beneath the bleachers of Fenway, the best tables are positioned directly in front of the huge garage window that overlook centerfield. – Jill LeGrow

Fans of America's favorite pastime won't want to miss a game at Fenway Park. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this stadium has been the site of home runs, stolen bases and grounders since 1912. Regardless of whether or not you're a diehard Red Sox fan, you should try to catch a game and admire the ballpark's original architecture. Must-see features of the park include Pesky's Pole – the right field foul pole named after former Red Sox player Johnny Pesky – and the 37-foot-tall "Green Monster" wall in left field.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

After Isabella Stewart Gardner's husband died in 1898, the art enthusiast carried out their plan to buy land in Boston's Fenway area and open a museum to display her impressive collection of Italian art. The museum, which was fashioned after the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice , was completed in 1901, at which point Gardner moved in to the fourth floor and began installing her collection. Today, you can visit this Boston museum to get your fill of the Italian masters, such as Raphael and Titian. The building also showcases a cache of beautiful furniture, photographs, sculpture and rare books straight from Europe. The museum's New Wing, designed by Renzo Piano, includes a glass atrium, greenhouses and landscaped gardens.

The art isn't the only interesting thing here: the museum is also the site of the single largest property theft on Earth. In the wee hours of March 18, 1990, two thieves made their way into the museum disguised as police. The duo stole 13 works, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas and Manet. Today, the museum has empty frames on the walls as placeholders until the art returns to the museum. As you may have guessed, the crime has not been solved and the works haven't been recovered. The museum is even offering a sizable reward ($10 million) for information leading to the art. 

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Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

A library isn't always all about books. The main branch of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, which opened in 1895, is so much more, according to recent visitors who call the architecture "beautiful" and a “must-see.” Walking into the Renaissance Revival building is akin to visiting a museum. On Dartmouth Street, two immense stone lions sculpted by Louis Saint-Gaudens stand guard by the main entrance. Inside, Bates Hall, the library's main reference reading room, is a 218-foot-long room with a barrel-arch ceiling soaring 50 feet high.

Visitors can take a free tour and learn all about the murals found throughout the library, including John Singer Sargent's series on the "Triumph of Religion." Other murals include works by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, who depicted eight library-centric disciplines in "The Muses of Inspiration," and Edwin Austin Abbey's "The Quest and Achievement of the Holy Grail."

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

A must for any history buffs or fans of our nation's 35th president, this excellent library and museum details the life of President John F. Kennedy. Exhibits include his presidential papers; masses of Kennedy memorabilia, including re-creations of his desk in the Oval Office and of the television studio in which he debated Richard M. Nixon in the 1960 election; and artifacts from the U.S. space program. There's permanent display on the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis plus plenty of other artifacts and information about Kennedy's life and presidency. The building itself is quite striking and was designed by architect I. M. Pei.

Museumgoers say that while the museum is off the beaten path (it sits about 5 miles south of downtown on Columbia Point), it is well worth the trek thanks to the exhibits and staff. However, some wish the exhibits had a more detailed explanation of Kennedy and events during his life. The views from the museum are amazing, add some visitors.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

If you want to get outdoors in the greater Boston area, consider hopping a ferry (which operates from mid-May through mid-October) to the Boston Harbor Islands. This collection of 34 islands located in the Massachusetts Bay boasts plenty of things to do and see including historic sites, hiking trails, beaches, wildlife and much more. Popular islands include Spectacle, Georges and Peddocks, though ferries also go to Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin and Thompson.

The 114-acre Spectacle Island is a great option for those looking to hike. Here, you'll find 5 miles of trails, including one which leads to the harbor's highest hill, offering incredible views of Boston's skyline. If you’re looking for a place where you can sink your toes into the sand, head to Lovells Island. Here, you’ll find secluded shorelines as well as tide pools (when it's low tide, a whopping 71 acres are added to the island's land mass). Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy a trip to Georges Island. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, which the U.S. government used for patrolling and training Union troops as well as housing Confederate prisoners during Civil War times. Peddocks Island, one of the largest of the Boston Harbor Islands, offers a little bit of everything. This island is considered a prime camping spot and features scenic hiking trails that pass through coastal forests, headlands connected by tombolos and the biggest beach of any island. You'll also find a little bit of history thanks to Fort Andrews and a restored chapel from World War II.

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

Located in the Back Bay along eight blocks between Massachusetts Avenue and Arlington Street, Newbury Street is home to gorgeous 19th century brownstones. It's also Boston's premiere destination for dining and shopping. Newbury Street has been called one of the most expensive streets in the world, thanks in large part to the significant cluster of expensive shops on the lower end (by numbered address) nearest Arlington Street.

Starting at the higher end, by Massachusetts Avenue, you'll find more budget-friendly retailers like TJ Maxx and Forever 21, as well longtime local favorites Newbury Comics and Trident Booksellers. In fact, Newbury Comics' opening in 1978 was the catalyst that began the transformation of Newbury Street from a heavily upper-class retail destination to a hipper, trendier spot for everyone.

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

Despite its location outside of city center, visiting the Samuel Adams Brewery is a popular stop for beer lovers. This brewery location acts as Samuel Adams' testing facility for new and specialty brews, which patrons can try. You can also take a guided tour of the facility to learn more about the brewing process.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, odds are you'll enjoy a visit to this brewery. Visitors say the staff is knowledgeable, but note there can be long entry lines.

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Cambridge Cambridge free

Cambridge, which sits about 3 miles northwest of Boston's city center, is home to both Harvard University and MIT , but there's more to see in Cambridge than just the schools themselves. The city features an impressive array of cultural institutions that feature collections and exhibitions ranging from fine art to technological innovations.

The Harvard Art Museums , which include the Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum and Arthur M. Sackler Museum, house a wide range of periods, styles and mediums within its walls. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern photography, 13th century sculpture, paintings from legends like Georgia O’Keeffe, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, and much more. If you prefer history, head to the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology , which boasts exhibits exploring everything from ancient Latin American cultures to the evolution of American eating habits and tableware to the lives of Native Americans. If science is more your speed, head to the Harvard Museum of Natural History to view dinosaur fossils, rare minerals and animal specimens from New England to Asia.

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

Beacon Hill is arguably Boston's most beautiful neighborhood. Located north of Boston Common , Beacon Hill is awash with quaint, cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses affixed with bay view windows and vibrant, flower-filled window boxes. It's Beacon Hill's incredible style, a stunning mix of Federal and Greek revival architecture, that make this neighborhood an attraction in and of itself. And recent visitors couldn't agree more.

Travelers who venture to Beacon Hill are charmed by its beauty and say that it's the perfect place to take a long stroll and wander around. While here, make sure to make your way to noteworthy spots including the picturesque Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, the latter of which is one of the most photographed places in Boston. After, head down Charles Street, where you'll find restaurants, shops and bars. Fans of the TV show "Cheers" will want to walk down Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the program.

Old North Church Old North Church

Most people who know anything about American history have heard of Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, when he rode through town to warn people about the arrival of British troops. Before heading off to Lexington, Revere gave orders at Old North Church. Robert Newman – the church's sexton – and Captain John Pulling Jr. – the church's vestryman – then climbed the steeple and held two lanterns as a signal that the British were indeed coming, but by sea.

The church itself, which is officially named Christ Church, is filled with beautiful relics from the past, including North America's oldest set of change ringing bells and chandeliers brought in from England in the early 1700s. The pews have a long history as well; Pew No. 54 was reserved for Paul Revere's son.

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

With a giant milk bottle structure at the front of the building, it's hard to miss the Boston Children's Museum. Here, hands-on exhibits present a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about various sciences, culture, art and health and wellness, among other subjects. Among the museum's standout exhibits are "Construction Zone," where little ones can learn about and play with kid-sized construction equipment, "The Common," where kids play with color, games and music, and "Japanese House" – a 100-year-old authentic Japanese house reconstructed in Boston by Japanese carpenters.

Museumgoers praise the variety of engaging exhibits tailored to kids within different age groups and can't recommend it enough. Others warn the museum gets crowded, especially in the summer.

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

Boston is packed with cool outdoor spaces, but this nearly 1½-mile-long series of parks and gardens offers more than most. The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway was established to link Boston's diverse neighborhoods through a series of lawns, parks and walkways that occupy a former highway tunnel. Since opening in 2008, visitors have flocked to this sprawling green space to enjoy temporary public art displays, bubbling fountains, numerous food vendors and a carousel. Plus, the park offers free weekly events, including food and art festivals, summer concert performances and seasonal fitness classes.

Many previous visitors said the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway not only offers a much-needed respite from the city, but also an easy way to explore Boston with kids during the warmer months. And, in many sections of the Greenway, you're never more than a few steps away from the Freedom Trail .

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Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

This hands-on museum offers an entertaining look at one of Boston's pivotal moments. You can toss (fake) tea overboard, climb around replica ships and converse with period actors about Colonial issues. Exhibits at the museum, which is located on Griffin's Wharf (close to where the actual Tea Party occurred on Dec. 16, 1773) include 3D holograms, talking portraits and the Robinson Tea Chest, an authentic tea chest from the Boston Tea Party. Two of the three ships have been recreated, the Beaver and the Eleanor, which are fun to explore. The film "Let It Begin Here" depicts the events that immediately preceded the American Revolution. You can also grab a cup of tea or a snack in Abigail's Tea Room, which has one of the best views of the harbor around.

Visitors love the interactive nature of the museum and tossing tea overboard, saying their time there was entertaining for all ages. They also add that the guides are informative and stay in character.

Museum of Science Museum of Science

If you're traveling with young ones in tow, be sure to swing by the Museum of Science. Here, kids can learn about astronomy, earth sciences and anatomy, not to mention participate in some fun interactive exhibits. Budding scientists can examine the Arctic in "Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology" exhibit or play on swings to learn about physics in "Science in the Park." The museum also features the Charles Hayden Planetarium, where you can indulge your inner astronaut during shows. Meanwhile, at the Mugar Omni Theater, you'll feel like you're actually in the IMAX film thanks to its cutting-edge sound technology and five-story-high projection screen.

Although the museum is very kid-focused, past visitors said that young-at-heart adults and even teens will get a kick out of the museum's engaging displays and shows. Though most travelers spend about half a day exploring the museum, you could easily allocate an entire day to this attraction. Also, remember that separate tickets (which cost extra) are needed for some museum features, such as IMAX films, planetarium shows and the Garden Walk and Insect Zoo.

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

Wander Boston for a couple of hours and you're sure to see a Duck Tour quacking its way through the streets (and waterways). These "Truck Duck" vehicles recreate the look of a DUKW truck used by the U.S. military during World War II and transport tourists all over the city by land and water. The tours drive past a number of landmark sites including the Old State House, Newbury Street , Prudential Tower, Public Garden and the Swan Boats, and Copley Square (home to the Boston Public Library ). Once launched into the water, you'll cruise down the Charles River checking out MIT, the Longfellow Bridge, as well as the Esplanade and the Hatch Shell. 

Besides giving tours around the city, Boston Duck Tour boats have been used in all of the victory parades since 2002 for the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins (the city's major teams for football, baseball, basketball and hockey, respectively). What started off simply as a way to roll the Patriots through downtown Boston for a Superbowl celebration has turned into a much-loved tradition that continues today.

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

Even if you're not a classical music aficionado, you can't miss attending one of the Boston Symphony Orchestra's world-renowned performances at Symphony Hall. The BSO began performing in 1881. Today, the symphony performs everything from family shows to traditional concerts and Boston Pops – a lively performance filled with singing and a variety of music. The BSO performs at Symphony Hall from September through April, then heads to Tanglewood (which is about 130 miles west of Boston) in the summer.

Past spectators not only praised the world-class talent, but also noted the impressive acoustics of Symphony Hall as a main selling point for attending future concerts. If you can't score tickets to an orchestra performance, consider taking a free tour of Symphony Hall. Tours, which are offered in the fall, winter and spring, provide information about the property, as well as insight into the orchestra's musicians and conductors.

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

Gaze up at the six 54-foot glass towers that comprise the New England Holocaust Memorial, and you're bound to be awestruck. Dedicated in 1995, each haunting tower is etched with numbers. The 6 million numbers represent the Holocaust's victims, while the towers represent the six major death camps. There is also a granite path covered in quotes from survivors that leads visitors inside the towers.

Recent visitors described walking through the columns as an emotionally charged and unforgettable experience. The monument's location next to Faneuil Hall Marketplace makes it very accessible while walking the Freedom Trail .

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Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

For a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s, head to Paul Revere's former residence in the North End . The house, which is situated on the Freedom Trail , offers insight into how homes looked in Revere's time (it's even filled with period pieces, including fine silver). Inside, history fans can admire the building's sweeping beams, spacious fireplaces and some original furnishings owned by the Revere family.

If you like American history, travelers say you'll enjoy seeing the Paul Revere House. This house is small, though, so don't allot more than an hour to tour the property. Docents are friendly and knowledgeable.

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

The golden-domed Massachusetts State House is an important building for many reasons and is one of the stops on the Freedom Trail . The land it sits on was originally used as John Hancock’s cow pasture. It was designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1798 and the cornerstone was laid by Samuel Adams in 1795. A copper dome was installed by Paul Revere in 1802 (later covered in gold). Nowadays, senators, state representatives and the governor conduct the Commonwealth's business here.

Free tours are offered by docents who explain the building's history and discuss the important art and architecture within. Make sure to look for the Sacred Cod in the House of Representatives Chamber. The almost 5-foot wooden cod symbolizes the importance of the salt cod industry to the area.

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

Your kids will find plenty to love at the New England Aquarium, starting with the Atlantic harbor seals that hang out just beyond the ticket booth. Inside, you'll find thousands of marine critters to study, and at the center: the Giant Ocean Tank. This four-story tank includes a coral reef habitat that houses more than 1,000 underwater creatures including green sea turtles, eels and barracuda. In other parts of the aquarium, you'll find exhibits dedicated to penguins, sea jellies and seadragons, plus a six-story high projection movie screen with digital surround sound, where you can watch films about sea creatures and more. And don't forget to check out the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, which allows visitors to graze sharks and rays as they swim by.

While some visitors bemoan the aquarium's compact size (which, in turn, made for thick crowds), many appreciate the attraction's variety of animals. Several travelers also recommend watching a penguin or seal feeding.

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every July 4th, the USS Constitution takes her annual "turnaround" sail in Boston Harbor. The particular sail is the only one open to the public and the US Navy holds a lottery with the lucky winners getting to board "Old Ironsides." – Jill LeGrow

History lovers, boat enthusiasts and military aficionados alike can't miss the chance to board the USS Constitution. Docked at the Boston National Historical Park in Charlestown, this historic vessel is the world's oldest commissioned warship still operational today. It is helmed by United States Navy sailors, who also serve as the ship's guides. The ship's accompanying museums displays nearly 2,000 artifacts related to the ship's history.

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

Bunker Hill Monument is part of the Boston National Historical Park and a stop on the Freedom Trail . The first major battle of the American Revolution took place on Breed's Hill in June 1775, though originally it was supposed to take place on nearby Bunker Hill. Names aside, the British won the battle but fared worse than their American foes. The British sacrificed about nearly half of their 2,400 men; American casualties were between 300 and 500 out of an army of 1,400 to 1,800 soldiers. Construction of the monument started in 1827 and was completed in 1842. The 221-foot granite obelisk offers fabulous views from its observatory, though you have to work for it by climbing 294 steps to the top.

Start your visit at the Bunker Hill Museum, located across the street. Exhibits explain the Battle of Bunker Hill, the construction of the monument, and the history of Charlestown. Free tickets are required to climb the monument and you can also pick them up at the museum. Visitors enjoy the museum and say the monument is awe-inspiring and the grounds beautiful.

Boston: North End to Freedom Trail - Food & History Walking Tour

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View Boston Observation Deck Admission Tickets

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Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II

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View Boston View Boston

U.S. News Insider Tip: To save some cash on your sightseeing, pick up a Boston CityPass which allows you to visit up to four attractions (such as the Museum of Science , New England Aquarium , Boston Harbor City Cruise and View Boston) for one discounted price. – Jill LeGrow

Replacing the iconic Top of the Hub restaurant and Skywalk Observatory that closed in 2020, View Boston opened in June 2023 to offer 360 panoramic views of Boston from atop the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Taking over the top three floors of the Prudential Center, View Boston includes an observatory, a wraparound roof deck and indoor/outdoor cocktail bar called Stratus, and a floor with interactive exhibits such as a projection-mapped 3D model of Boston. There's also Beacon, a bistro offering seasonal beverages and food.

The Mapparium The Mapparium

Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story, stained glass globe never fails to elicit wonder. Designed by the architect of the Christian Science Publishing Society building, Chester Lindsay Churchill, the globe depicts the world as it was in 1935.

The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.

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Home » North America » Boston

BOSTON Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Boston is the capital of, and largest city, in the state of Massachusetts. Boston was founded all the way back in 1633 making it one of the oldest cities in the United States, and it played a very crucial role in the American Revolution. You can learn all about its fascinating and important history during your weekend in Boston.

Planning a trip to Boston has never been this easy! The thriving port city has a myriad of exciting activities to take part in, as well as a multitude of sightseeing attractions.

If you’re up for the hustle and bustle of city living, with the peace and tranquility that comes with staying by the seashore, then a Boston visit is on the cards!

Here’s everything you need to know, to create your very own Boston itinerary!

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Best Time To Visit Boston

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If you’re wondering when to visit Boston , the answer is: there’s no time like the present! But there are certain weather patterns at different times of year that might suit your schedule best.

The most popular time to travel to Boston is between June and October. The weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor festivals, football games and other exciting entertainment options to take part in!

From November to February Boston gets very cold, but if you can stomach it you’ll have plenty to celebrate! You’ll get the chance to enjoy reduced prices of accommodation, tours, and activities around the city, which is a major plus if you’re on a budget! Just remember to pack warm clothes as you’re sure to need them this time of year.

Between March and May is Boston’s springtime. The weather starts to warm (ever so slightly), but you can still enjoy discounted rates and peace and quiet at the many Boston attractions. If you’re a little wary of the weather, just take a few Boston walking tours as they’re sure to get your heart pumping in no time!

With a Boston City Pass , you can experience the best of Boston at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Looking for accommodation can be a tough job, so we’re going to make your life a little easier by telling you about the best place to stay in Boston !

South Boston is a great place to stay, especially if you’re a first time visitor to this wonderful city. The neighborhood hugs the bay and is home to the scenic waterfront! The waterfront is a stretch of land about 1-mile long, where Bostonians walk their dogs or go for romantic strolls in the evening.

In recent years, the neighborhood has experienced an influx of young professionals, so expect the days to be quiet and the evenings to be abuzz with activity and youthful cheer!

Jamaica Plain is a very diverse neighborhood, where everyone who aspires to be different tends to stay. You’ll find hipsters of every variety staying in this old and quaint neighborhood! Jamaica Plain is home to Jamaica pond, which is a large urban park, perfect for those looking to get out of the hotel for a jog or even a leisurely stroll.

Davis Square could be considered one of the most happening neighborhoods in town. The neighborhood is home to a lively mix of students, young professionals, and old-timers who still like to party! You’ll find a multitude of restaurants and cafes, bustling with a community of thriving individuals.

Need to know to where the best hostels in Boston are? Here are our top accommodation picks for your Boston trip itinerary!

Best Hostel in Boston – HI Boston

HI Boston offers an incredible communal setting that leaves you feeling refreshed to start touring Boston every morning! After indulging in a free breakfast at the hostel, be sure to play pool and engage with your fellow travelers. With a great central location, there’s no better hostel to add to your Boston itinerary!

Best Airbnb in Boston – Studio in Prime Location

Spack dab in the heart of Back bay is this astonishing home that offers one of the most comfortable stays in the city. It’s definitely one of the best Airbnbs in Boston . Located on the lively street of Newberry, you have access to the most premier shopping in the city and the award-winning restaurants you’ve only seen on tv. Speaking of food, the kitchen is small but does have everything you need to cook a quick meal, but being in the popping neighborhood, you will most likely be enjoying all the cafes he neighborhood has to offer anyways.

Best Budget Hotel in Boston – YOTEL Boston

This wonderful hotel is located in Boston waterfront and offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city! Guests can indulge themselves at the on-site restaurant that serves absolutely delectable dishes. Make sure you make use of the on-site fitness center and take a visit to the many nearby Boston attractions!

Best Luxury Hotel in Boston – The Eliot Suite Hotel

This historic hotel is located in Bostons’ iconic Back Bay area. The Eliot Suite Hotel is elegant and offers many perks, such as the on-site sashimi bar! Guests can also enjoy free access to the sports club and business center that provides a constant flow of entertainment for visitors to the hotel.

There are a hell of a lot of things to do in Boston . In order execute your Boston itinerary, you’re going to need to know how to get around!

When traveling through a few neighborhoods, taking the commuter rail is a great option! It travels around the outskirts of the suburbs, giving you access to a few different areas. It’s also a fairly cheap option, and possibly the best way to tour Boston.

Taking the bus is a very common way to get around the city. It’s perfect for intercity travel and is always decently priced. There are also extensive late-night routes for those still out and about in the early hours.

BlueBikes is a bicycle sharing system with over 100 stations and over 1000 bicycles throughout the city. If you’re looking for an easy way to get around while staying active, this may be the way to go. You can purchase a 24-hour card that gives you access to bikes all around the city for a day.

Of course, taking a taxi around the city is always an option, although traffic does tend to be an issue in rush hour, so be careful of the times you choose to take this form of transport. Taxis are also more expensive than other forms of transport, so we wouldn’t recommend it if you’re on a budget.

Boston Public Garden | Boston Pond | Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum | Trinity Church | Little Italy

If you’re only spending one day in Boston, it’s important to hit some of the most popular tourist attractions in Boston . You’ll spend the day strolling through the Boston Gardens and taking a ride in the famous swan boats, before checking out an art museum, Trinity Church and finally exploring Little Italy!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Stroll Through the Boston Public Garden

• Why it’s awesome: A large garden located in the heart of Boston, which is also the perfect place for a morning stroll.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: The Friendly Toast Restaurant is a local favorite for those looking for early morning breakfast! After a stroll in the gardens you’re sure to have worked up an appetite, so be sure to try their delicious French toast or their incredible gluten-free pancakes!

Boston Public Garden is the oldest public garden in America, giving it a very old-timey feel. A Victorian bridge crosses the pond, and intricate statues are scattered around the lawns.

There is a series of paths that wind their way through the lawns, providing visitors with a wonderful view of the English-style garden. There is a formal garden area that was planted by the city in an attempt to make the garden even more appealing than it already is. The flowers planted blossom throughout the year to create a beautiful show.

The pond that acts as the centerpiece for the public gardens is home to a great number of ducks in the warmer seasons, as well as a few swans. There are even swan boats that have become a very popular tourist attraction in Boston during the summer.

While going for your morning stroll in the public gardens, be sure to look out for the Equestrian statue of George Washington, which is a very interesting piece that seems to have gained popularity over the years.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Ride on the Pond

• Why it’s awesome: There are many ways to enjoy the pond, depending on what time of year you decide to visit Boston.
• Cost: Adults USD $4 and Children USD $2.50
• Food nearby: Saltie Girl is a highly unique restaurant that has become a favorite amongst the locals. They serve incredibly fresh seafood in a diverse range of dishes, and boy do they do it well! The atmosphere is also lovely.

After strolling around the Boston Public Gardens, you’re sure to be in need of a ride around the pond. Since 1877, there have been boats that sail the pond that are adorned with a swan body at the back of the boat.

If you decide to go for a ride, you’ll hop in the boat and be paddled around the pond by a tour guide who sits comfortably in the swan part of the boat. This can be a very peaceful and fun experience for the whole family!

Unfortunately, the boats are only in operation during the summer months. But that doesn’t mean that in winter you miss out on all the fun. The pond is only 3 feet deep, so it freezes over easily in winter and makes for the perfect ice rink.

Be sure to take a skate on the ice if you do happen to be staying in Boston during the colder months.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a woman’s personal collection of artworks that she and her husband collected throughout their lives.
• Cost: USD $15
• Food nearby: Wahlburgers is a famous burger joint starter by Mark Wahlberg and his brothers. They serve deliciously meaty burgers as well as a multitude of other delectable main courses. Be sure to try their spiked milkshakes if you’d like a creamy treat to get your buzz on!

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is housed in the personal home of Isabella Stewart Gardner and shows off her personal collection of incredible artworks.

In the museum, you’ll find artworks from famed artists such as Botticelli, Titian, Fra Angelico, and John Singer Sargent, as well as many others.

When Isabella passed away in 1924, she instructed in her will that her house should be opened to the public as a museum. Unfortunately, in 1990 there was an art theft at the museum and 13 paintings were stolen. Amongst them were artworks from Rembrandt and Vermeer, as well as 11 others that were never recovered.

There is also a beautiful garden in the center of the museum, which is a lovely place to sit and relax, as well as taking a photo under the luscious vegetation.

Isabella was a Boston Red Sox fan, so anyone wearing Red Sox paraphernalia when visiting the museum gets a discounted entry fee. Discounts will also be given to anyone named Isabella!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Visit Trinity Church

• Why it’s awesome: The original Trinity Church was built in 1733 but was burnt down in the famous Great Boston Fire. The current version was built shortly afterward to replicate the original.
• Cost: USD $10
• Food nearby: Eataly Boston is a fantastic collection of indoor restaurants that provides you with a wonderful selection of delicious Italian food. With one communal dining area, visitors can all get their meal from a restaurant that suits their preferences whilst still dining together. Expect a selection of wonderful pasta dishes, seafood delights and a wide selection of delicious comfort food.

Trinity Church is the first Romanesque style building to be built in Boston and makes a real statement in its surrounding area. The church is still operational to this day, as people go to worship every Sunday!

For a small entrance fee, you’ll get the opportunity to tour this Boston landmark and see the incredibly intricate architecture that makes this building so great!

The building is built in the shape of a Greek cross, which was truly unique for its time, and it features murals by the famed artist John La Farge. The stained glass windows were done by various different artists but remain a prominent feature of the beautiful church.

Trinity Church consistently ranks in the top 10 for America’s most significant architecture and is a wonderful sightseeing adventure.

If you’re a fan of statues, ornaments, paintings, and intricate architecture, be sure to add this amazing activity to your Boston itinerary.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Take a Walk Through Little Italy

• Why it’s awesome: Little Italy is the oldest inhabited area in Boston and has the same feel as a quaint cobbled street in Italy.
• Cost: Free to explore!
• Food nearby: La Famiglia Giorgio’s Restaurant is a family-friendly restaurant that serves delectable Roman cuisine in healthy portions! If you’re looking for a wonderful mix of Italian seafood dishes and other hearty meals, then this is the perfect restaurant for you to visit during your time in little Italy. Be sure to add this wonderful restaurant to your Boston itinerary! If you have more time, you could even take a food tour of Little Italy in Boston !

Taking a stroll through the cobbled streets of Little Italy is one of the most amazing Boston points of interest. Many of the buildings in this area were built during the late 1600s and early 1700s, so they’re lots of fun to look at and to explore.

In the early 20th century, the area experienced an influx of Italian immigrants and remains the most popular place for Italians to frequent in the city.

The neighborhood has maintained its Italian character over the years and is now home to a variety of Italian restaurants, bakeries, and vendors.

On the last weekend of August every year, the area hosts The Feast of All Feasts , where you can experience vendors lining the streets selling wonderful smelling and tasting delights. If you’re not in the area during this time, there are still plenty of tasty treats for you in the surrounding restaurants and from vendors in the area.

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Bunker Hill Monument | USS Constitution Museum | Museum of African American History | Greenway Carousel | Boston Common

If you’re spending 2 days in Boston , you’re going to need more activities. You’ll climb a monument, visit two museums, ride a very unique carousel and end the day in Boston Common.

Let’s dig into day 2 of your 2 day itinerary in Boston!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Climb Bunker Hill Monument

• Why it’s awesome: Bunker Hill was where the first battle between colonial and British forces took place in America.
• Cost: Free to visit!
• Food nearby: Monument Restaurant and Tavern serves delicious and unique brunch meals that will fill the hole in your stomach created by the invigorating climb to the top of Bunker Hill Monument. Enjoy a variety of comfort food options in a cozy setting that allows you to sit back and relax while indulging in your meal.

The Bunker Hill Monument was built in remembrance of the first bloody battle between colonists and the Britsh forces and stands an impressive 67 meters tall. After picking up a free climbing pass at the bass of the monument, you’ll be able to climb right to the top, which provides spectacular views of the beautiful city!

At the base of the monument, you’ll see a metal statue of Colonel William Prescott, who was the leader of the rebel forces. He was the one who gave the famed instructions “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes”.

Although the British won that battle, it was a significant one that proved how much damage the rebels could inflict on them.

Climbing the monument is an activity you simply must add to your Boston itinerary as you’ll get the chance to enjoy panoramic views of the city below. Be sure to take your camera along for this activity as the sight is incredible!

Day 2 /  Stop 2 – Visit the USS Constitution Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned naval vessel in the world that is still afloat.
• Cost: USD $10 – USD $15
• Food nearby: Brewer’s Fork is a cozy and rustic restaurant that serves delicious wood-fired cuisine. The pizzas are fantastic and the other dishes are very comforting! It’s the perfect place to stop off for lunch before heading to the next activity on your Boston itinerary!

The USS Constitution was commissioned by President Washington and set sail to the high seas in 1797. The ship is best known for defeating five British warships in the war of 1812. The ship now sits in the naval yard, and contains a whole host of wartime and maritime memorabilia, and serves the public as a museum.

Visitors are allowed to board the ship and explore the decks as well as take photos onboard.

The wooden-hulled ship is known lovingly by Bostonians as Old Ironside and matches the old-timey feel of Boston city as a whole.

If you care for a stroll around the navy harbor, it’s always an educational experience and is one of the best places to visit in Boston . You can take a guided tour of the harbor, or venture out on your own. Either way, you’ll have a learning experience second to none.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Explore the Museum of African American History

• Why it’s awesome: The Museum of African American History is an informative museum that gives you the opportunity to learn about slavery and segregation in Boston.
• Food nearby: The Paramount serves American style comfort food in a cafe style diner that has a wonderful atmosphere. Tuck into a pancake stack, fluffy french toast or a juicy burger that will tantalize your taste buds.

The building in which the Museum of African American History is housed was built in 1835 as Abiel Smith School and was the very first public school in Boston for African American children.

It was used for this purpose for twenty years until in 1855, when African American children were integrated into all public schools.

The museum not only shows what the school was like when it was in operation but also what life was like as an African American individual during the 1800’s.

If you’re interested in the history of oppression in the city, then this museum is a must-see on your Boston itinerary.

The museum is part of the Black History Tour that is run in Boston, so if you’re planning on taking the tour, then give this activity a skip on the 2nd day of your Boston itinerary.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Ride the Greenway Carousel

• Why it’s awesome: The Carousel is located in the Tiffany & Co Foundation Grove and is a fairly new addition to the grove.
• Food nearby: Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse is an upscale restaurant that serves a wonderful variety of delicious Brazilian cuisine. They specialize in meat dishes but also have a fantastic selection of vegetarian meals. If you haven’t tasted Brazilian cuisine, this is the perfect place to try it for the first time, so be sure to add this tasty experience to your Brazilian itinerary.

The Greenway Carousel is an activity that’s not only for kids but for adults too! The carousel contains a variety of different animals that you can ride, all of which are native to Boston. This makes the experience all the more unique and educational.

You can find lobsters, harbor seals, owls, grasshoppers, bunny rabbits, and eagles, as well as a whole hoard of other animals.

The carousel was designed with adults and children with physical disabilities in mind. So you’ll find it’s very easily accessible and has many features that make it a more inclusive experience.

Unfortunately, the carousel only operates on Fridays and Saturdays, so it’s great for a weekend in Boston , but you can visit on any day just to see what it looks like. Each animal on the carousel is a work of art, and worth going to see whether it’s on or not.

Be sure to take your camera along for this activity.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Stroll the Boston Common

• Why it’s awesome : The Boston Common is the oldest park in America as it’s been in use since 1634.
• Food nearby: Pho Basil serves a mix of authentic Thai and Vietnamese cuisines. They serve a multitude of Vegetarian, Vegan, meat and fish dishes, so there really is something for everyone’s taste buds and dietary requirements. The meals are served in a generous portion which you’ll be very grateful for after a day of exploring and adventuring.

This 50-acre park is one of the most popular Boston landmarks as it’s visited by locals and tourists daily. We recommend visiting the Boston Common in the early evening when locals are on their way home from work, and often stop for chat or a vendor meal in the park.

The Boston Common was once a cow pasture, and then a British camp, before becoming an execution ground. Luckily for us, the area is a lot calmer now and has been used as a public park for almost 400 years.

The area is often used for public speeches, gatherings, protests, and concerts. Some of the most notable speakers to give a speech at the park were Martin Luther King Jr and Pope John Paul II.

This park is one of the stop-offs in the Freedom Trail, so you’ll see plenty of tour guides dressed in revolutionary period clothing.

HI Boston offers an incredible communal setting that leaves you feeling refreshed to start touring Boston every morning!

• Free Breakfast
• Reception (limited hours)

Freedom Trail | Black Heritage Trail | Boston Harborwalk | Harvard Yard | Mapparium

If you’re spending 3 days in Boston, you’re going to need a few more activities! Here’s what to do in Boston if you’re staying for a few more days!

Walk the Freedom Trail

• 5-mile walk
• 16 historically significant sites

The Freedom Trail is a wonderful activity to take part in during your time in Boston. Although there are many guided tours that take you along the Freedom Trail, it’s easy enough to take the tour on your own.

A series of bronze markers are embedded in the sidewalk, which point you in the right direction and allow you to follow them all 2.5 miles!

Along the way, you’ll get to stop-off at 16 historically significant sites, where you can learn a little more about the cities past before continuing along the route. The great part about taking a self-guided tour is that you decide where you’d like to spend the most time. You can also take a break to enjoy lunch at a restaurant or street-food vendor of your choice.

Most of the stops along the route are free to visit, which makes this great value for money as you’ll only have to pay admissions at 3 of the 16 sites (Paul Revere House, the Old South Meeting House, and the Old State House). If you’re on a tight budget, you can give these places a skip.

If you’re a history lover, then this activity simply must be added to your Boston itinerary!

Black Heritage Trail

• Boston walking tour
• 5 mile walk
• Beacon Hill neighborhood

The Black Heritage trail leads you down a 1.5 mile trail where you’ll get the chance to visit some of the most significant places in Boston relating African American history. The Beacon Hill neighborhood was home to Boston’s black population before the civil war.

After the civil war, the African American people staying in Beacon Hill were integrated into the rest of the city with all the other Bostonians.

Along the trail, you’ll visit the 54th Massachusetts Regiment Memorial which is situated in the Boston Common. You’ll also visit the African Meeting House, which was a secret meeting place for African American individuals before the civil war.

You’ll then visit the Lewis and Harriet Hayden House which is the home of the famed abolitionists. There you’ll learn about the plight of African Americans who were fighting for their rights. You’ll visit a few more sights, including the first public school for African American children.

There are tours that can lead you along the trail. These take place a few times a day and may offer extra insights into the past, however it is easy enough to take yourself on the trail if you’d like to save some cash!

Take the Boston Harborwalk

• 47 miles long
• Stunning views
• Activities along the way

The Boston harborwalk is something you have to do while you’re in the wonderful city! Although the walk is rather long and you probably won’t be able to walk all the way (especially in one day), you could hire a bicycle, or just complete part of the walk on foot.

It’s a wonderful way to end off the day, walking along the seaside while the sun sets. There are also plenty of activities to take part in along the way if you’d like to make a day of it.

While you enjoy stunning views of the city and the sea, be sure to stop at the USS Constitution, the Boston Tea Party Museum, the New England Aquarium, and the Institute of Contemporary Art.

End your day of exploring at Castle Island, a piece of Boston that juts out into the ocean and contains many of the best restaurants, cafes and high-end shops in the city.

If walking that distance seems a little intimidating, why not take a boat ride or a cruise along the shoreline to experience the route from a different perspective. If you’re spending more than a week in Boston, be sure to complete the route before you leave as it’s quite an accomplishment! It will leave you with some great memories and magnificent views etched into your memory.

Explore Harvard Yard

• The oldest part of Harvard University
• The central hub of Harvard
• Surrounded by attractions

The Harvard Yard is the central hub of the university, and is a great place to pick up on the atmosphere of this incredibly diverse school. Here you’ll find students playing outdoor games, whether it be a game of frisbee or a quieter game of chess.

In the Harvard Yard, you’ll see the John Harvard Statue to commemorate one of the founders of the university in 1638. The statue is made of bronze and serves as an integral part of the yard.

The Harvard Yard is the oldest part of the university and is surrounded by the Harvard library as well as the Memorial Church. The area opens up into the Harvard square, which consists of restaurants, bars and shops which are continually filled with cheerful students from the university!

You can roam this area of the campus as you please, and explore the different buildings that make up this wonderful university. Guided campus tours are lead by the students of the university at different times throughout the day. However, you can easily take yourself on a self-guided tour of the area!

See the Mapparium

• See the world globe without distortion
• Built in 1935
• Three-story map

The Mapparium can be found in the headquarters of the Christian Science Monitor. It’s a huge glass globe the size of a three-story building. To view the globe, you step inside and view it from the inside.

The Boston Mapparium is the only place in the world where you can see the entire globe without a distorted perspective. If you stand in the middle of the floor, your eyes will be equidistant to every point on the map, allowing you to see the globe for the first time, as it really is.

The globe was built in 1935 and lights up so that you’re able to see each point accurately. The perfect spherical shape of the globe allows this masterpiece to be a whispering gallery too. If you whisper into one side of the globe, another individual will be able to hear you at the opposite end of the globe.

In order to enter, you’ll have to take a guided tour which takes place every 20 minutes. Be sure to check the tour times before venturing out to the awesome Boston attraction.

If you’re a fan of geographical artifacts, this is a wonderful thing to do. Although some of the names of the countries are a little out of date, you’ll still find it to be very geographically accurate!

For the most part, Boston is a fairly safe place. However to pass a safe vacation in Boston you should excercise some precautions. In recent years, theft has become a bit of a problem in recent years so it’s important not to avoid “run down looking” neighbourhoods.

Crime tends to increase at night in quiet areas, so be sure to stick to the more populated areas if you find yourself out and about during the evening.

Smoking in Boston is forbidden in most areas! To ensure you don’t get into trouble with the law, make sure you don’t start lighting up just anywhere. There are actually only a handful of places you’re allowed to smoke, so be sure to check for a sign stating you’re allowed to smoke before lighting that cigarette.

If you’re visiting Boston in winter, it’s important to be prepared. Bring shoes with rubber soles and warm jackets as it can snow at any time during the winter months. You don’t want to get caught in a sleet storm unprepared!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Boston

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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If you’re spending a little more time in this wonderful city, you should consider taking a few day trips from Boston . Here are a few of our favorite day trips that you should be adding to your Boston itinerary!

Boston Duck Tour

The Duck is a unique amphibious vehicle that allows you to discover Boston from a completely different perspective. A duck is a vehicle that was used during World War II to travel on both land and in the water.

You’ll start off touring the historic streets of Boston before plunging into the Charles River, where you’ll enjoy an 80-minute tour of the city. Along the way you’ll get the chance to learn about the unique heritage of the city that gave birth to freedom in America.

All this while enjoying splendid views of the city from the perspective of the water!

Guided Tour of Fenway Park

Fenway Park is home to the beloved Boston Red Sox Baseball Team. On this guided tour, you’ll learn about the stadium which is now over 100 years old and about it’s famous home team.

You’ll learn about the many unique features of the Fenway Park Stadium and about the careers of some of its very best players. You’ll also browse the stadiums 170,000 artifacts and over 150,000 photographs.

If you’re a sports fanatic, this tour is the perfect one for you while you’re visiting Boston.

The Boston Tea Party Interactive Day-Trip

During this Boston day-trip, you’ll get the opportunity to go back in time, and learn about the Boston Tea Party , which triggered the American Revolution. The Boston Tea Party was a protest against unfair taxes, so you’ll get the chance to throw tea overboard to recreate the actions of the sons of liberty.

Along the way, you’ll see holographic characters that will teach you about the events that triggered the American Revolution. You’ll also explore a replica of 2 of the Tea Party Ships that belonged to the Dutch East India Company.

Boston Guided Trolley Tour

On this trolley tour, you’ll travel past 120 of the best sightseeing highlights in Boston. You’ll travel through Beantown from Little Italy, all the way through to the waterfront. Be sure to take an amble around the waterfront as there are a myriad of awesome restaurants and wonderful shops to explore.

You’ll be able to stop for photos at any point along the route, so be sure to bring your camera along for this adventure!

You’ll follow along the freedom trail, stopping off at many of its main attractions before the tour comes to an end.

Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip and Island Tour

Take this day trip from Boston that gives you the opportunity to travel to Martha’s Vineyard without the hassle of booking land and ocean transport.

On the tour you’ll see the homes of many famous celebrities, a gingerbread house and America’s oldest carousel. All of which are great sightseeing opportunities.

Enjoy magnificent views as you travel through the water to the wonderful island. You’ll visit all 6 towns on the island before hopping back on a ferry and heading back to Boston. The tour is all-inclusive so snacks and lunch will be provided during the day.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Boston itinerary.

What should you include on a 3 day Boston itinerary?

Make sure to check out these Boston hotspots: – Little Italy – Bunker Hill Monument – Boston Common – Black Heritage Trail

Where should you stay for a weekend in Boston?

Back Bay is a great option if you’re short on time as it offers easy access to top attractions. For nightlife, base yourself downtown.

What can you do in one day in Boston?

Walking the Freedom Trail (or part of it) is a great way to see Boston’s top historical attractions. Head to Little Italy for food, and chill out in the Public Garden.

Are there any good day trips from Boston?

There are plenty of Boston trips to choose from. Hop on a Boston Duck Tour, a guided Trolley Tour, or head out to Martha’s Vineyard for an island tour.

Boston being one of the oldest cities in the United States has so many heritage sights to see and history lessons to learn. Although the city does have a dark past, Boston is also the birthplace of freedom in America.

Boston leaves little for the heart to desire as it provides sea-side views, as well as a vibrant city life that is comparable to that of the hustle and bustle of New York.

Stroll through the waterfront in the morning and spend the evening exploring the thriving nightlife in Boston, before heading back to one of the best places to stay in Boston.

No matter what your vacation preferences are, this holiday is sure to blow your mind and keep you coming back.

So what are you waiting for? Start booking the most exciting tours in Boston for your travels! Can you hear it? The hustle and bustle of Boston’s city life is calling your name!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mary Beth Skylis

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Boston Travel Guide

Boston is not only one of America's oldest cities, it's also one of the most walkable, and we'd even go as far as saying it's one of the easiest to explore. From the Italian roots of the North End to Boston's quintessential brick facades and New England charm, the city has historical and cultural fascination around every corner. First-time visitors wondering what to do in Boston will be thrilled to find that there is an activity to please every kind of traveler—Red Sox games for the sports fans, oysters shucked fresh at the Boston's best restaurants for the foodies, Freedom Trail walking tours for the history buffs, and public green spaces for relaxing in the summertime.

Boston is an intimate city, but its cultural breadth makes it feel like a much larger hub. You can feast on some of the country's best dim sum in Chinatown, then walk 15 minutes and be at a brewery by the water. You can go spend an afternoon at a world-renowned art museum and wind up at a Sox game that night, or start your day strolling the Harvard University campus and end the day taking in a concert at the legendary House of Blues.

Eastern Standard Time (Daylight Savings Time, seasonal. Dates vary)

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Boston is from May to November. The late spring and summer months bring beautiful weather (temperatures reach nearly 70 by May and hover in the low 80s by July). Fall in Boston is picturesque, with Harvard University, MIT, and Boston University's campuses trimmed in foliage and temperatures slipping into the low 70s in September and low 60s in October.

Visiting in the late spring means catching the Bruins and Celtics close to the playoffs, but you'll want to avoid the graduation weeks in May if at all possible. The summer is lovely in Boston—it's not too hot, and while tourists flock to the city in June, July, and August, the student population clears out. Fall is by no means the off-season, with tourists continuing to arrive and students moving in, but visiting in September and October affords you some of the very best Boston weather. We'd recommend avoiding Boston travel from November to April, as these are the coldest, grayest months.

Things to Know

Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States dating back to 1634.

Boston was the first U.S. city to build a subway line, the Tremont Street Subway built in 1897.

Another Boston first was Revere Beach, the first public beach in the country.

Boston baked beans, New England clam chowder, Boston cream pie, lobster rolls, and Fenway Franks are some of the foods associated with the city.

Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood is one of the city's oldest communities, named for the beacon that once warned locals about invasions. Today it's a protected historic district, and its classic homes can be admired on a self-guided walking tour .

The National Park Service manages several of Boston's popular tourist sites.

How to Get Around

Trains: Public transportation in Boston runs through Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), which offers two types of trains: the metro and the commuter rail. There are 13 commuter rail lines, all of which will take you out to various suburbs of the city. There is also a comprehensive metro—which Bostonians call "the T"—that runs throughout Boston and can easily bring you to most major attractions and neighborhoods in the city. The T has four lines—the red line, blue line, orange line, and green line—and is generally very easy to navigate. Find the subway map here .

You can purchase a CharlieCard , a reusable card to use on MBTA trains and buses.

Buses: The MBTA offers a vast number of city buses , all numbered and servicing different areas of the city. They also have Silver Line buses that go to Logan Airport from South Station.

Taxis: While taxis are not as abundant here as they are in, say, New York City, it's still simple to grab a cab at Logan Airport or at South Station (a central transportation hub where most buses and trains from other cities arrive). You can also, of course, call in advance for a taxi from a local cab company like Boston Cab Dispatch .

Car service: Uber and Lyft are available in Boston, as are black car services like Master Livery .

Best Hotels

Boston harbor hotel.

Address: 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02110 Phone: (617) 439-7000 Book Now

The epitome of luxury hospitality in Boston, Boston Harbor Hotel is a five-star property right on the water with 232 rooms and suites. The centrally located hotel is walking distance to South Station, Faneuil Hall, and State Street. Guests will enjoy dining on-site at Rowes Wharf Sea Grille, exercising in the private health club, and languishing in the beautifully designed common areas.

Encore Boston Harbor

Address: 1 Broadway, Boston, MA 02149 Phone: (857) 770-7000 Book Now

Bringing Las Vegas hotel vibes to Boston, Encore Boston Harbor opened in 2019 offering the chic atmosphere promised by Wynn Hotels. In Everett, Massachusetts, it's slightly out of the way, but you can still make it to the heart of downtown Boston in 15 minutes by car. Encore Boston Harbor has a 24-hour casino and exemplary dining at Rare Steakhouse.

Four Seasons Hotel Boston

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Boston

Address: 200 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116 Phone: (617) 351-2036 Book Now

Four Seasons Hotel Boston gives travelers a taste of the Back Bay and is near Boston's Freedom Trail and Beacon Hill. The hotel is perfect for long-term stays or families. Four Seasons Hotel Boston has a lovely heated indoor pool and on-site dining with views of the Boston Public Garden at Aujourd'hui Lounge. "You can tell that the staff of Four Seasons Hotel Boston considered every angle of the guest experience," said Liz Cantrell , a T+L senior editor.

The guest rooms were redone in 2019 and the property underwent a renovation of the public spaces in 2023. "The new design is stunning and reflects the Boston Public Garden and pays homage to the historic brownstones around the neighborhood of Back Bay," Cantrell added. "There are shades of green and botanical touches throughout the hotel, but I found the most stunning example to be the impressionist mural — depicting the Public Garden's flora and fauna — behind the reception desk."

XV Beacon Hotel

Address: 15 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108 Phone: (617) 670-1500 Book Now

Named for its address of 15 Beacon Street, XV Beacon Hotel is a five-star property with a boutique spirit and a historic facade. The beaux-arts building in the luxe Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston is home to just 63 rooms, cultivating an intimate, exclusive feel. But even more remarkable is the fact that there are only seven rooms to a floor, which guarantees ample space and privacy in each guest room.

Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel

Address: 90 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02108 Phone: (617) 772-5800 Book Now

On Boston's iconic Tremont Street, Kimpton Nine Zero is an inviting boutique hotel with complimentary wine happy hours and 190 rooms and suites with chic decor pieces (if you're lucky, you might end up with an Eames chair set by the window). The hotel sits at the intersection of Downtown Crossing, Beacon Hill, and the Financial District, and is a short walk to Faneuil Hall, Boston Common, the waterfront, and TD Garden for those keen on catching a Celtics or Bruins game.

The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Address: 215 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114 Phone: (617) 224-4000 Book Now

On Charles Street, The Liberty has North End charm with exposed brick-lined interiors and high-end Italian fare at Scampo. The hotel was once the Charles Street Jail, and the common spaces really play into that theme. Visit Alibi for cocktails and small plates "set in the old 'drunk tank' of what was Boston's historic Charles Street Jail," and their seafood restaurant called CLINK, also on-site.

The Charles Hotel

Address: 1 Bennett Street,Boston, MA 02138 Phone: (617) 864-1200 Book Now

The Charles Hotel is a Cambridge landmark located right in Harvard Square—situating it next to great coffee houses, music venues, shopping, and some of the most idyllic brick-lined streets in Cambridge. The rooms at The Charles Hotel are furnished with historic pieces from all over New England and some offer views of the Charles River. You'll also find high-end suites to accommodate larger families, including the Dean's Suite, Presidential Suite, and Chancellor's Suite.

The Verb Hotel

Address: 1271 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215 Phone: (617) 566-4500 Book Now

A boutique, three-star hotel near Fenway Park known for keeping the spirit of rock music alive, The Verb Hotel features eclectic music-inspired decor and vibrant colors. The vibe in the rooms and common spaces is very retro-chic, and the hotel has an outdoor pool and lively pool deck. You can also dine on-site at The Verb's sushi restaurant, Hojoko.

907 Main Hotel

Address: 907 Main Street, Boston, MA 02139 Phone: (617) 354-9907 Book Now

A boutique hotel in Cambridge, 907 Main Hotel just opened in fall 2020 as a city venture by independent New Hampshire hotel company Hay Creek Hotels. In the buzzing Central Square, 907 is minimalist and cozy with a rooftop bar (the only rooftop bar in Central Square, in fact). And it's close to both Harvard University and MIT.

The Newbury Boston Hotel

Address: 1 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116 Phone: (617) 536-5700 Book Now

The Newbury Boston Hotel opens in spring 2021 and will sit at the intersection of Newbury and Arlington streets. Formerly the Taj Boston Hotel, this iconic property at 1 Newbury Street was originally a Ritz-Carlton when it opened in the 1920s. Located in the Back Bay, one of the famously high-end neighborhoods of Boston, The Newbury is walking distance to the Boston Public Garden and a myriad of other Boston attractions.

Best Restaurants

Neptune oyster.

Address: 63 Salem Street #1, Boston, MA 02113 Phone: (617) 742-3474 Website

An iconic North End seafood restaurant, Neptune Oyster serves great lobster rolls and the freshest of fish. But most patrons come for the oysters, as Neptune features eight or nine varieties, as well as for the clams, which are served fried or on the half shell. You'll have to navigate the mad scramble for the coveted seats at the counter, or wait a while for a table in this intimate but lively space, but it's worth it either way.

Oleana Restaurant

Address: 134 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, MA 02139 Phone: (617) 661-0505 Website

Oleana Restaurant is a signature Cambridge restaurant featuring outstanding Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine, and an imaginative mix of small plates with bold flavors. A popular place that generally requires reservations, you'll be exposed to a creative use of spice blends, delicious leafy vegetables, and a classic cassoulet .

The Boston Sail Loft

Address: 80 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA 02110 Phone: (617) 227-7280 Website

When you think of the Seaport District, your first thoughts may stray to tea being dumped in the harbor. But as more and more restaurants are calling this area home, visitors have flocked to the Seaport for a wide range of cuisines. The Boston Sail Loft, winner of multiple Best Clam Chowder in Boston awards, may be no-frills, but it certainly has a lot to offer, including their broiled fresh scrod that's sure to please.

Santarpio's Pizza

Address: 111 Chelsea Street, Boston, MA 02128 Phone: (617) 567-9871 Website

An East Boston landmark for more than 100 years, now with a location in Peabody, too, Santarpio's is in the Pizza Hall of Fame. Four generations of Santarpios have been assembling "upside-down" pizzas—toppings, cheese, and then sauce—on a thin crust that is unequivocally regarded as the best pizza in the city. It's hard to find, in the shadows of Logan Airport, but it's where discussions about great pizza begin and end.

Tatte Bakery & Cafe

Address: Multiple locations Website

It's not often that a bakery starts from one's home and in 14 short years expands to 18 brick-and-mortar bakeries, including two in Washington, D.C.. Nor is it easy for a bakery to be gluten-free, but Tatte's does have a "gluten-friendly" menu that's a big hit. While pastries and desserts are a big draw for patrons, Tatte's does have a dinner menu, an all-day menu, and a weekend brunch.

Christina's Homemade Ice Cream

Address: 1255 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA 02139 Phone: (617) 492-7021 Website

Featuring some of the area's finest homemade ice cream, this Cambridge institution has been hand-cranking out its product for almost 30 years. Conveniently located between Harvard and MIT, Christina's is known not only for its innovative and bold flavors, but for the sheer number of flavors that practically forces you to return multiple times. Thankfully, it's open seven days a week.

Address: 1 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02116 Phone: (617) 412-4600 Website

Part of the Columbus Hospitality Group, operating seven restaurants and two hotels in the Boston area, Sorellina brings contemporary Italian-Mediterrranean cuisine to historic Copley Square. The extensive wine list is sure to impress, and their knowledgeable staff complement the "warm-modern design and chic decor" that brings loyal patrons back again and again.

Modern Pastry

Address: 257 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113 Phone: (617) 523-3783 Website

In the ongoing cannoli wars in the city's North End, Modern consistently earns top prize. A family-owned business dating back 90+ years, their hand-crafted pastries attract such a following that lines often snake out the door and around the corner. Want something other than a cannoli? Try their carrot cake, ricotta pie, or their delicate pizzelle.

Address: 9 East Street, Boston, MA 02111 Phone: (617) 654-9900 Website

Omakase, a form of Japanese dining where patrons leave themselves entirely in the hands of the chef, is elevated to art form at O Ya. If you don't wish to splurge on omakase, the sushi à la carte is exceptional, and there's a nice range of sakes available to complement the sushi.

Mamma Maria

Address: 3 N Square, Boston, MA 02113 Phone: (617) 523-0077 Website

Mamma Mia is a Boston institution, featuring regional Italian dishes that leverage the local markets, and the bountiful New England produce, meats, and seafood. Romantic, old-world, and authentic are some of the adjectives used to describe this intimate restaurant overlooking North Square, with its cobblestones and historic buildings that transport you back in time.

Address: 21 Bow Street, Somerville, MA 02143 Phone: (617) 616-5319 Website

Union Square in Somerville, just across the Charles River from Boston, is home to this gem of a restaurant, serving luscious Peruvian food. As you immerse yourself in Andean culture, you'll be guided through the staples of Peruvian cuisine, like slow-cooked stews and ceviches. The original "closed-door" in-home restaurant has now expanded to its current space, and integrates Andean music, art, and design for a full sensory experience.

Hei La Moon Restaurant

Address: 88 Beach Street, Boston, MA 02111 Phone: (617) 338-8813 Website

Situated on the outskirts of Chinatown, Hei La Moon has a huge space and a menu to match. It's a great spot for dim sum, available seven days a week, with authentic Chinese food items ranging from shark fin dumplings to fried taro cake.

Alive & Kicking Lobsters

Address: 269 Putnam Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139 Phone: (617) 876-0451 Website

Lobster rolls, with a twist. Perfectly seasoned lobster meat, salt, pepper, minimal mayo, layered not on a hot dog bun, but two beautifully buttered and toasted pieces of scali bread is what you'll find at Alive & Kicking Lobsters. It's an actual lobster sandwich, that you can take outside and eat, sitting at their picnic tables of this unassuming Cambridge shop. It's definitely worth crossing over the Boston bridges for this tasty treat.

Things to Do

Fenway park.

Address: 4 Jersey Street, Boston, MA 02215 Phone: (877) 733-7699 Website

Visiting Fenway Park is a rite-of-passage activity, because one of the best things to do in Boston is drink beer on the third baseline at a Red Sox game. Opening day at Fenway tends to fall in April, and baseball season—if the Sox make the playoffs—will run into October. Whether you're in Boston on a summer day, or you have to bundle up for a game in late September, it's always worth it to catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park.

The Freedom Trail

Violet Smirnova/Travel + Leisure

Address: 204 Freedom Trail, Boston, MA Website

Walk the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail as a self-guided tour. It starts at Boston Common and passes 16 important Boston landmarks, including Old North Church and Paul Revere's house. The Freedom Trail organization also offers guided tours, homing in on specific subject matters, from Boston breweries to revolutionary women.

Quincy Market

Address: 206 S Market Street, Boston, MA 02109 Website

Historic Quincy Market, which opened in 1826, is a Boston food hall that first-time visitors won't want to miss. Grab a steaming chowder in a bread bowl from Boston Chowder Co., or an ice cream cone at Quincy's Place. You'll also love shopping at the adjacent North Market, where you'll find local retailers, like Boston Pewter Co., and a myriad of souvenir shops.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Address: 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115 Phone: (617) 566-1401 Website

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is regarded as one of the most beautiful museums in the country, not just because of the art, but thanks to the opulent courtyard garden. The idyllic courtyard blooms year round, featuring hydrangeas in May and June, bellflowers in August and September, and even winter tropical plants in January. Art lovers will also enjoy the contemporary selection juxtaposed with iconic pieces by Rembrandt, and of course, an ever-relevant rotation of new exhibits.

Museum of Fine Arts

Address: 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115 Phone: (617) 267-9300 Website

One of the most recognizable museums in the world, the MFA hosts exceptional traveling exhibitions—including impressionist exhibitions featuring the memorable works of Monet and Cezanne. They also have long-standing collections that delve into contemporary art and a stunning repertoire of global work.

Boston Common

Address: 139 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02111 Website

Boston Common is the start of the Freedom Trail, but it's also just a beautiful place to sprawl out for the day in the summer or fall. On Boston Common, you'll find Frog Pond, a picturesque pool in the warmer months and a delightful skating rink in the winter. The park dates back to 1634 and is considered America's oldest park.

Boston Public Garden

Address: 4 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02111 Website

Next to Boston Common is Boston Public Garden, another prime place to relax on a Saturday in Boston. The artfully landscaped gardens are home to iconic artwork, like the Make Way for Ducklings statues. The garden's centrally located pond is where you'll find the famous Swan Boats for a quintessentially romantic Boston experience.

Address: 100 Legends Way, Boston, MA 02114 Phone: (617) 624-1000 Website

TD Garden is where the Celtics and the Bruins play, which means you have the chance to catch a basketball or hockey game while staying in the heart of the city. (In fact, a big perk of Boston is that three of their four major sports teams play in Boston proper.) Catch the Bruins from October to April (or even May if they make the playoffs) and the Celtics on a similar timeline.

House of Blues

Address: 15 Lansdowne Street, Boston, MA 02215 Website

Certainly the most iconic music venue in Boston, the House of Blues on Lansdowne Street is where you can find A-list musical talent. You'll want to scour Ticketmaster in advance of your trip to see if there are any good shows when you're visiting.

Boston Sailing Center

Address: 54 Lewis Wharf, Boston, MA 02210 Phone: (617) 227-4198 Website

Sailing in Boston Harbor is a delightful way to see the city in the summertime. If you're a proficient sailor, you can rent a boat at Boston Sailing Center, but you can also go out with an instructor for a private sailing lesson.

Charles River Bike Path

There are ample biking and running trails in Boston, including the Minuteman Bikeway, which runs from Cambridge all the way to Bedford, Massachusetts, and Cambridge's Fresh Pond. But one of the best Boston paths is the 24-mile Charles River Bike Path, which runs along both the Boston and Cambridge sides of the river passing landmarks from Boston's Museum of Science to Watertown Square, just outside the city.

Trillium Brewing Company

Fancy an outdoor craft beer? Trillium Brewing Company has three prime locations in Boston, one in Fenway with indoor and outdoor space, one near the Seaport district which boasts a great restaurant, and a lively seasonal beer garden near the waterfront.

Best Shopping

Newberry street.

Newbury Street is the most luxurious shopping street in Boston whether you're ready to buy one-of-a-kind pieces at high-end boutiques or you're more of a window shopper. Highlights include Bobbles & Lace for women's clothing and Rothy's Newbury Street for the cult-shoe enthusiasts.

SoWa Vintage Market

Address: 450 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118 Website

The South End is known for SoWa Vintage Market, which is quite a trendy shopping scene. You'll find vintage apparel, furniture, a slew of gorgeous old leather goods, and of course, vinyl records galore.

Address: 98 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114 Phone: (617) 722-9200 Website

For those who love a luxurious independent boutique in a charming neighborhood, look no further than Good on Charles Street. You'll find elevated New England home goods, jewelry, and accessories, not to mention a well-curated selection of vintage.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Address: 4 S Market Street, Boston, MA 02109 Website

The Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a shopping epicenter of Boston, situated right in front of Quincy Market and adjacent to North Market and South Market. Faneuil Hall Marketplace is where you'll find everything from souvenir shops to New England home goods to favorite, fashion-forward chain stores. Think of Quincy Market, North Market, South Market, and Faneuil Hall as one expansive shopping area, where you'll find great food, plenty of shopping, and a hefty dose of American history.

The Shops at Prudential Center

Address: 800 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02199 Phone: (617) 236-3100 Website

Have you ever wondered what's actually in the Prudential Center? Well, there's quite a lot going on at the Pru, but many see it as a shopping capital of Boston. With more than 75 stores, including essentials like Saks Fifth Avenue and Canada Goose, and a number of restaurants, it's a lovely place to spend an afternoon on a cold day.

Brattle Book Shop

Address: 9 West Street, Boston, MA 02111 Phone: (617) 542-0210 Website

One of Boston's famous independent book stores is Brattle Book Shop, right off Tremont Street near Boston Common. First opened in 1825, it's "one of America's oldest and largest antiquarian book shops."

Boston Public Market

Address: 100 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113 Website

Boston Public Market, near the Haymarket metro station and Quincy Market, is a popular indoor food market open year-round. It feels like a gourmet indoor farmer's market, where you'll find artisanal, locally sourced goods and delicious prepared foods.

Formaggio Kitchen

Address: 268 Shawmut Avenue, Boston, MA 02118 Phone: (617) 350-6996 Website

For the passionate foodie, Formaggio's Kitchen is a culinary institution with a truly revelatory cheese selection. They started out in Cambridge (where they have two locations), and have now expanded to a Boston location in the South End on Shawmut Avenue—and have even set up a shop in New York City.

Copley Place

Address: 100 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02116 Phone: (617) 262-6600 Website

Copley Place, in the Back Bay, is a prime shopping area for legacy brands. The enclosed shopping center has more than 50 high-end boutiques, including coveted names like Louis Vuitton and Burberry.

December Thieves

Address: 51 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114 Phone: (857) 239-9149 Website

Venture to the chic enclave of Beacon Hill—which some might think of as a more intimate version of the Back Bay—and you'll find December Thieves, which offers a "curious and cultivated" selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods. The Beacon Hill boutique fuses luxury comfort, high-fashion, and academia.

Neighborhoods to Know

Back Bay: Often regarded as the ritziest neighborhood in Boston, Back Bay is home to Newbury Street, Copley Square, and the Prudential Center. Come for the classic Boston attractions, stay for the luxury, brick-facade row houses.

Cambridge: Cambridge sits directly across from Boston, with the Charles River separating the two. Cambridge is, of course, home to Harvard University and MIT. Think of it this way: Boston is to Manhattan as Cambridge is to Brooklyn. Known for more than just the ivy leagues, visitors will love poking around Harvard Square during the day, grabbing a cup of coffee from the Peet's featured in Good Will Hunting and picking out a book at The Coop, and checking out the lively scene in Central Square at night.

South End: Tucked just beyond Back Bay and Fenway/Kenmore, the South End is known for its Victorian-style row houses. It's a low-key neighborhood with residential charm, but still offers local shopping and trendy eateries.

North End: The North End is right by the water, across from East Boston, and a short walk from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. It's the hub of Italian culture in Boston—often called Boston's Little Italy—and is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Boston, home to landmarks like Old North Church and Paul Revere's house.

Seaport: Southeast of downtown, nestled by the Boston waterfront is the chic yet laid-back Seaport neighborhood. The Seaport is a charming area to simply walk along the water and fantasize about living in the high-rises overlooking the harbor.

Fenway/Kenmore: In terms of hanging out in the Room Where It Happens, Fenway/Kenmore tends to be the heart of the action, especially during baseball season. Fenway/Kenmore is home to Fenway Park, the House of Blues, pub-lined Landsdowne Street, and a slew of great restaurants. It's also where you'll find the famous Boston Latin Academy, and is adjacent to the Back Bay and close to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Winter : Expect up to nine days of rain or snow in the winter months, and temperatures dipping into the low 30s. Generally, December to February is cold and snowy—with quite a bit of slush. Spring : You'll still get about eight days of rain per month in the spring, but temperatures will start to rise by April to the mid 50s, and by May can get up to the high 60s. Summer : If you like a warm breeze on summer evenings, you'll love Boston in June, July, and August, when temperatures are in the high 70s and low 80s. Summer is extremely pleasant (and mild compared to the Southeast), though it does get a bit humid. Fall : September temperatures can still be in the 70s during the day, but by October, you can feel dips into the 40s at night. Nonetheless, fall brings mild temperatures and lovely foliage.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month. Average annual precipitation 21.14 inches.

January 23 - 37 February 24 - 38 March 31 - 45 April 41 - 56 May 50 - 66 June 59 - 76 July 66 - 82 August 65 - 80 September 58 - 73 October 47 - 62 November 38 - 52 December 29 - 42

Apps to Download

MBTA : Bus, metro, and commuter rail schedules iOS | Android

ParkBoston : A preferred way to pay for parking in most Boston neighborhoods iOS | Android

Uber : Rideshare servicing Boston iOS | Android

Lyft : Rideshare servicing Boston iOS | Android

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Boston travel blog — the fullest boston city guide for a trip to boston on a budget for the first-timers.

You will fall in love with Boston at the first sight when you set foot in this land. Because this peaceful land with narrow streets winding, romantic street corners of bare leaves old trees, white and purple of cherry blossoms, or tiny yellow wildflowers lurking on the green grass… All perfectly matched like a miraculous fairy dream. Boston is a city with a long history, making an important contribution to forming a prosperous America today and home to the world’s best universities such as Harvard or MIT. Boston residents are very proud of their city and do not hesitate to show their love for the city whenever they have the opportunity. Although Boston is one of the largest cities in America but when you visiting Boston, you will have a feeling that life here is more like a town than a bustling city. You will meet close, open locals, passionate football fans, great restaurants and bars and a series of interesting historical stories. Don’t miss Boston if you want to learn more about American history as well as the atmosphere of a thriving but equally friendly city. So, are you looking for a trip to Boston on a budget? Let’s check it out our Boston travel blog with the fullest Boston city guide (Boston travel guide, Boston visitors guide, Boston tourist guide) for a trip to Boston on a budget for the first time from how to get to Boston, best places to visit, top things to do in Boston… to what and where to eat in Boston below.

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Read more: Boston itinerary 4 days — How to spend 4 days in Boston & what to do in Boston for 4 days for first-timers?

Boston city guide: When is the best time to travel to Boston?

As a city located in a temperate climate region, so the best time to visit Boston is around the end of April when the weather starts to get warmer, the flowers are blooming, or early October when the cold autumn wind just come, and the whole city seemed to be covered with a new red and yellow coat of maple leaves. And this time, the Boston weather is quite pleasant, the air is cool and the natural landscape is also more beautiful.

Boston is also known as one of the most beautiful autumn viewing spots in America. Therefore, from September to November every year, the city always attracts a large number of tourists to visit and enjoy the autumn romantic atmosphere. Especially, traveling to Boston at this time visitors will also have the opportunity to participate in many interesting activities such as big boat races or exciting Halloween festivals.

However, you should pay attention to some major festivals in Boston to consider the time for your trip.

• Boston Wine Expo: Held in the middle of February every year at Seaport World Trade Center. This is one of the biggest wine festivals in the United States with over 2.000 wines created by 440 grape farms from 13 different countries.
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Occurs on St Patrick’s Day in March every year. Boston is considered the city that concentrates the most Irish living in the country, so the parade is very grand, attracting more than 850.000 viewers every year.
• Boston Marathon: One of the five main Marathon competitions of the world is recognized by the IAAF (International Association of Athletes Federations). Held on Patriots’ Day, April every year, attracting about 25.000 athletes and 500.000 spectators.
• Boston Dragon Boat: Held on the Charles River in June every year, attracting about 50 boat teams from all over the United States. This is also the oldest dragon boat racing festival in North America.

There are also a number of other major festivals such as beer festivals, fireworks festivals on Independence Day, and other food and dance activities.

Boston travel blog: Getting around Boston

Fly to Boston: Logan Airport is the only major airport in the city. You don’t have many options to travel from the airport to the city center. Shuttle bus (silver line) is the only and completely free public transport to go to South Station and there will be subway, buses to go to most major locations in the city.

Getting around Boston

Boston is a city heavily influenced by British culture plus American city planning, so traveling here is difficult and complicated, even for those who have lived here for a long time. Walking in Boston is considered the most popular way of moving as well as the best option. In particular, under Massachusetts law, vehicles must give way to pedestrians, even in cases where they are traveling in the wrong lane or even crossing a red light. If you want to rent a self-driving car here, you should thoroughly understand the routes, parking spots on the road as well as pay attention to the pedestrian line. Moreover, parking on the streets of Boston is quite difficult and expensive.

When you need to travel further, we recommend using public transport, including: bus, train, subway and even boat. These transport systems all are operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority . You can pay cash or use Charlie Card e-card for a lower fee. If you only want to explore around the city center, subway is a not bad choice, cheap and not take time to find parking. In addition, if you need to go out at night when public transport stops, you can also travel by taxi.

Taxis are also a means to use but the price is quite high. And if you go at rush hour, you can’t “move”.

To visit nearby places like Providence, Worcester, Cape Cod .. We recommend renting a car at the airport. Car rental service is very much here, but you need an international driver’s license.

Boston tourist guide: Trip costs

• Accommodation: Hotels in America are not cheap, and Boston is no exception. For centrally located hotels, the room rates can be up to $40 or more for a night in a single room and about $80 per night for a double room.
• Cheap hotels: Cheap and budget hotels are usually located on the outskirts of the city, some near the metro area. Most of these hotels range in price from $100-140 per night for a double room, but you can also find cheaper hotels if you try to find.
• Food: If you eat at a restaurant, you will have to spend about $15-20 for a meal with drinks. But you can also save money by buying pizza and sandwiches in mobile carts or small shops, the prices of these meals range from $5-8. If you want to save even more, you can cook at the hotel, you will only spend about $50 for the whole week.
• Transport: Boston has a very developed transportation system, you can move easily here. In addition, the subway is also very easy to use, costing about $2.65 per trip.

Boston visitors guide: Some useful tips for saving budget

• Eat and drink at Quincy Market: Quincy Market is a place to sell a wide range of cheap dishes.
• Walking: Because Boston is a historic city, you should not miss the walks along the roads including the most famous route – The Freedom Trail.
• Drink beer outside the center: You can experience Boston’s nightlife at Brighton or Allston with cheap beer mugs and sit and relax watching the surrounding landscape.
• Visit the park for free: You can explore the Arnold Arboretum park at no cost. It allows you to experience the 260 acres of land. Moreover, the park is open from early morning to late evening, allowing you freely exploring. The park has many trails, gardens, lawns spread out and there are countless flowers brought from around the world.
• Enjoy outdoor music shows: During the summer, you can enjoy free music programs held next to the Charles River.

Boston travel guide: Where to stay in Boston?

Because Boston is the largest economic – cultural – tourist center in the Northeast, it is easy to choose big hotels in the city center, expensive prices are the only obstacle when you choose stay in the central area. Instead, To save costs, you can find Dorm rooms with 4-6 beds or you can find a home or vacant room on Airbnb.com for a much cheaper price, and some places can allow you cooking, which saves a lot of money. In addition, you can choose stay in a hostel suitable for backpackers. Hostel price in the city ranges from $40- $70/night, quite cheap compared to the average room rates. In addition, if finance is not a problem, the hotel is always the best choice.

In addition, you can refer to one of the best Airbnb in Boston: Spacious & Modern, Professionally Sanitized at $57/night or PRIVATE Condo in Prime Location at $107/night.

–> Airbnb link discounts up to $35 for the first booking here: https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185

Below are some best luxurious hotels you can refer to

Mandarin Oriental Boston : No hotels in Boston can compare with Mandarin Oriental. From services, facilities, utilities to location are very good value for money. To deserve the top spot, the price is not cheap at all. About $600/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Bluebird Suites Near South Station : It is equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bath or shower and free toiletries. Besides, the kitchen also has a coffee maker and kettle, dishwasher, oven, microwave and toaster are also provided. Bluebird Suites Near South Station is a 9-minute walk from Boston Common Park and 4 km from Logan Airport. The room rates from $289.31/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Boston Harbor Hotel : If Mandarin Oriental is too much for you, Boston Harbor is a great alternative. It is famous for its enthusiasm. They will take care of you bit by bit from the moment you arrive. In addition, there is no shortage of services here. Only request, you will be met. Price for a night is also relatively expensive: About $270/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Ritz-Carlton, Boston (Address: 10 Avery Street, Boston, MA 02111), 5-star hotel, with room rates from $756.02/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Some best mid-range, budget hotels in Boston you can refer to

The Godfrey Hotel Boston : One of Boston’s best 4-star hotels. Located in the heart of the city, 600m from the Freedom Trail; about 800m from Boston garden. The services are great. You can hire someone to put away your car for $50. The price is moderate, the cheapest is about $130/day. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

HI Boston Hostel : Located in downtown Boston, this hostel is a 5-minute walk from Boston Common Park and public transport. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, are fully equipped for disabled guests, guests can choose accommodation for women, men or both men and women. Stay here you can relax in the games room with billiards and TV. Right in the yard of the hostel, there is also a coffee bar and snacks vending machines and drinks. The room rates from $51.83/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Boston Luxury Suites (Boston Lodge and Suites) : The hotel is about 1.9 km from JFK Presidential Museum & Library, this hotel only serves breakfast but you can choose a variety of continental, vegetarian or gluten-free meals. Rooms also feature a flat-screen TV with cable TV, a private kitchen and a dining area. Boston Luxury Suites offers rooms with terraces and each room is equipped with a coffee maker and has a separate seating area. Boston Luxury Suites offers free Wi-Fi, tennis courts and a children’s playground. The room rates from $120.83/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Patrick’s Homestay : Located next to Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, North End and the Institute of Contemporary Art. It is very affordable but rooms are airy, providing all the necessary equipment with TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, giving you interesting experiences. Visitors can also relax in the common lounge area. In addition, there is a fully equipped shared bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. The room rates from $89.83/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com ).

Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Boston TD Garden (Hotel Indigo) :  If you are looking for a cheap hotel in Boston, the Holiday Inn Express Boston Garden will be a suitable suggestion for you. This hotel is located in the downtown area, opposite the Northern subway station and TD Garden Arena stadium. Each room at this hotel is equipped with modern amenities such as 32-inch flat-screen TVs and video games, coffee makers, air conditioning systems, fireplaces, … Moreover, guests staying here can also use the 24-hour gym and enjoy attractive continental breakfasts. Holiday Inn Express Boston Garden is also just 10 minutes from Boston Science Museum, a 15-minute walk from the New England aquarium. The room rates from $194.31/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Boston Park Plaza (Address: Arlington Street, 50 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116-3912), 4-star property, with room rates from $127.77/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Lakeside Inn (Address: 595 North Ave, Wakefield, MA), 2-star property, with room rates from $69/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Constitution Inn (Address: 150 3rd Ave, Boston, MA), 2-star property, with room rates from $69/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Quality Inn Boston-Revere (Address: 100 Morris Street, Revere, MA), 3-star property, with room rates from $101/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Liberty, a Marriott Luxury Collection Hotel, Boston (Address: 215 Charles St, Boston, MA), 5-star property, with room rates from $181/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The College Club of Boston (Address: 44 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02116, USA), with room rates from $172.9/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com ).

Revere Hotel Boston Common (Address: 200 Stuart St, Boston, MA), 4-star property, with room rates from $179/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Taj Boston (Address: 15 Arlington St, Boston, MA), 4.5-star property, with room rates from $179.9/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find, check rates, availability & booking for Boston hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com or Airbnb.com .

Boston travel blog: Best places to visit and top things to do in Boston

Boston is one of the oldest cities in America, so it is not surprising that this place attracts many tourists based on its rich history. So, before going to Boston, you should learn a little bit about the history of this city, but the more you know, your tour more better to understand and compare with what you already know, have read and are still wondering about it. Some of most standing out historic attractions of Boston in particular and the U.S. in general such as: Bunker Hill Monument, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, Old State House, Bunker Hill Monument, …

When talking about Boston, people often refer to not only Boston, but also neighboring cities like Cambridge, Somerville, Quincy, etc. This region’s full name is the Greater Boston. Therefore, many famous places are commonly known in Boston but actually they located outside Boston. For example, two world-famous universities are Harvard and MIT located in the city of Cambridge.

Featured attractions in central Boston

Trail of freedom.

This is a road across historic Boston City, which is about 4 km long. Walking along the trail, visitors will feel like walking into a giant revolutionary museum with 16 important relics such as Boston Common Park, Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s house, … You can get the map and information book at the beginning of the Trail of Freedom.

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Boston Travel Guide

Looking for something fun to do in Boston, MA? We are here to help you decide what to do on your visit. Find your next great experience on our Calendar of Events . It provides the most popular Boston events , concerts , theater shows , musicals , sports events , festivals, holiday happenings, family events, unique tours, and more. Let us help you plan your vacation and discover everything Boston, MA has to offer. From tours and restaurants to things to do , get the most from your trip!

Best Events

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Best Boston Tours

5 Top-Rated Tours from Boston, MA

Discover the best Boston tours. Explore 100+ points of interest. Hop on and hop off at all popular Boston tours and attractions. We’ve got several options to choose from to help you maximize your time in Boston and still see the best first. See our most recommended things to do in Boston, MA.

Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

Explore the best that Boston has to offer on this hop-on hop-off tour of the city. See Boston’s top attractions—like the USS‘Constitution’ and the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, to name a few—on the loop. Enjoy discounted admission to attractions like the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum with the purchase of your tour. If you upgrade to the Gold or Platinum Pass, you will be given your (seasonal) Harbor Cruise ticket when you check in for the Trolley Tour. These seasonal cruises depart periodically throughout the day close to Stop 1.

• Discover Boston at your leisure with a hop-on hop-off trolley tour.
• See the most popular sights of Boston at your own pace.
• Hop on and off at any of the stops as often as you wish.

Martha's Vineyard Daytrip from Boston with Round-Trip Ferry & Island Tour Option

Overview Join Boston’s only award-winning, original, Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip! Leave the trouble of driving to someone else and enjoy a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard from Boston. Then, take a short cruise to Martha’s Vineyard then enjoy free time to explore or upgrade to add an island tour. Complimentary snacks, bottled water, island guidebooks, and a discount card with island perks are provided during the drive.

• Hassle-free ride from Boston to Cape Cod aboard an air-conditioned Mini Coach Bus
• Panoramic ocean views on a cruise between Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard
• Spend hours exploring Martha’s Vineyard at your leisure – beaches, shopping, and dining available.
• Narrated Island Tour upgrade available with stops in Edgartown and Gay Head Cliffs

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission

Relive the most important event leading up to the American Revolution on this self-guided tour of the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. Take a journey back in time to the famous Boston Tea Party, an incident that changed the course of American history. It’s more than a stroll through historic artifacts, though. It’s truly one of the top-rated museums in the city of Boston. Explore authentically restored tea ships and throw the fated tea into Boston Harbor.

• Admission to the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.
• Get an in-depth look at the events leading up to the Boston Tea Party.
• Learn how the Boston Tea Party kick-started the American Revolution.
• See one of the two remaining tea chests from the Boston Tea Party.

Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution

See some of the top attractions in Boston from the waterfront on this narrated sightseeing cruise. Explore Boston Harbor and see the city’s historic sites while listening to live commentary on board. Pass landmarks like the Boston Tea Party ships, USS Constitution, and Boston Light—the oldest continuously manned lighthouse in the United States.

• Historic sightseeing cruise of Boston Harbor.
• Narrated tour with tales of the Revolutionary War, Legends of the Sea, and Boston’s Historical Figures
• See America’s oldest continuously manned lighthouse
• Sail through the Harbor Islands National Park Area and Boston’s working Port.

Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran

Experience the best of New England’s marine wildlife on this guided whale-watching cruise around the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Hop on a high-speed catamaran that gets to and from the whales in the least amount of time possible. See humpback and fin whales, plus Atlantic white-sided dolphins with the help of a naturalist guide. The onboard galley offers food and beverages for purchase during the trip.

• Boston Whale Watch Cruise aboard a high-speed catamaran.
• See Humpbacks, Finbacks, and the critically endangered Right Whales during your sail.
• Enjoy a scenic whale-watching cruise around Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.
• Narrated by a New England Aquarium Naturalist as your Guide.

Boston Day Trips

5 Top-Rated Day Trips from Boston, MA

Blessed with beautiful natural areas, Massachusetts contains an array of unique attractions for all types of travelers. In cities and towns, visitors will find museums, unique attractions, and great restaurants. In the more remote parts of Massachusetts, there are waterfalls, miles of hiking trails, and tranquil beaches. Classic New England towns and quiet fishing villages line the Massachusetts coast. Massachusetts enjoys a unique history that lives on in full force through its special attractions and well-preserved historic places.

Martha's Vineyard Day Trip with Optional Island Tour from Boston

Visit Martha’s Vineyard on a day trip from Boston to experience the island beauty without the hassle of booking ground and ferry transport. From hotel pickup and drop-off to included ferry tickets, snacks, water, and sightseeing maps, this Martha’s Vineyard excursion is designed for maximum time exploring, with the option to upgrade and include a guided tour of the entire island aboard a high-top, small-group van and explore all six towns on the island, indulge in lunch, and spend more time learning about scenic New England.

• Ground and boat transport get you to the Vineyard with one booking.
• Customizable tour: choose between independent and guided options.
• Early departure for more time on Martha’s Vineyard.
• Ferry trip is a great chance to see the coast and marine wildlife.

Boston to Salem One-Way or Round-Trip High Speed Ferry

Don’t let time determine whether to see Boston or Salem. Visit both towns with the help of a quick and comfortable catamaran. This high-speed ferry service travels from Boston to Salem (or vice versa). Enjoy the scenic adventure from the upper or lower deck of the boat—or just relax at the lounge inside. An onboard galley offers food and beverages for purchase. Upon arrival, many top attractions are within walking distance. One-way or round-trip tickets are available with a variety of convenient departure times.

• Fast, efficient transportation between Boston and Salem.
• Onboard galley offers food and beverages for purchase.
• See top Salem and Boston attractions within walking distance of the ports.
• One-way or round-trip ferry service available.

Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II

Discover historic New England as you explore two iconic Massachusetts destinations on this full-day tour from Boston. Travel through Quincy, MA, the birthplace of two U.S. Presidents, and journey along the state’s South Shore coastal area on route to Plymouth. Explore the 400-year-old town’s harbor, enjoy lunch (own expense), view Plymouth Rock, and tour Plimoth Plantation. You’ll also board the Mayflower II and learn the fascinating history of the Pilgrim’s.

• Explore multiple historic New England sites in just one day—ideal for travelers short on time.
• Bypass lengthy queues with skip-the-line entrance to Plimoth Plantation.
• Admission to the Mayflower II included as an added convenience.
• Round-trip transport by mini-coach ensures a stress-free excursion.

Boston to Newport Small-Group Day Trip with Breakers & Marble House Admission

Escape the hustle of the city and get away to the tranquility of Newport, Rhode Island, on a guided, small-group day tour from Boston. This quaint coastal town, known as America’s First Resort, is the perfect getaway and just 70 miles south of Beantown.

Explore the Breakers mansion, the most grandiose of Newport’s summer mansions. Visit attractions like the Ocean Drive Historic District, the St Mary’s Church complex, and the U.S. Naval War College, among others. Hotel pickup and drop-off plus a snack, guidebook, and discount offer card are included.

Boston Freedom Trail Day Trip from New York City

Swap the Big Apple for a day in history-steeped Boston undistracted by transportation worries. Travel to the city by comfortable vehicle, and enjoy a comprehensive tour of its highlights with the benefit of a guide for commentary. Stroll around Cambridge’s Harvard Yard, admire the city’s Revolutionary-era landmarks along the Freedom Trail, and enjoy free time for a lunch of local favorites such as clam chowder at Quincy Market.

• Explore historical Boston on a day trip from New York City.
• No planning needed: go by luxe vehicle and hear about the sites via a guide.
• Tour Harvard, walk the Freedom Trail, and see the Boston Tea Party site.
• Time for local seafood meal (own cost) such as lobster roll at Quincy Market.

Welcome to Boston, MA

Boston , officially the City of Boston , is the capital and most populous city of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in the United States and the 24th-most populous city in the country. Whether you’re a local, new in town, or just cruising through we’ve got loads of great tips and events. Boston is perfect for family fun and romantic getaways. Start planning your Boston trip. Explore the complete list of Entertainment Venues in Boston , MA. Check out our events calendar for concerts , theater shows , musicals , sporting events , and more.

Entertainment Venues

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Boston makes history but, even now, we're still forging our identity. The spark that fueled the fight for American independence burns just as brightly today and inspires our food, beer, and not-so-dirty water. It’s built five-star stays and world-class venues accessible in all four seasons. 

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Guide to Spring in Boston

Get outside in Boston, one of America’s great walking cities where the historic port, beautiful waterways, elaborate bike paths and networks of urban green space invite you to have fun…

Top Things to Do in Boston

Discover the city for history buffs, sports fanatics, music lovers, foodies, cultural travelers, and, truthfully, anyone.

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Digital Nomads

Updated On: December 14, 2022

You may have seen our list of the best youtube travel vloggers written by the outstanding Christine of GrrlTraveler . She introduced us to some of the best travel vloggers who have endured through the years. That list of youtube channels features the heavy hitters and best travel vloggesr on YouTube, including Vagabrothers, Mark Weins, Kristen and Siya, Samuel and Audrey and Hey Nadine. So check that out here .

We didn’t want to mess with Christine’s list, but we did want to share more amazing youtube travel channels with you that we check out weekly. Christine had a strict criteria for her choices for the best travel channel like consistent updates, niche, and channels that bring a new spin on the word Travel Show – (She knows what she likes and she has a TV producing background after all).

Table of Contents

Best Travel YouTube Channels

We chose our list of YouTube travel channels in a similar fashion. They are people we watch regularly, they update consistently, and have entertaining videos and personalities and do creative work. These travel YouTubers combined with Christine’s list are the best travel channels on youtube. They make us want to travel and I know they will do the same for you. 

Most Inspiring YouTube Travel Channels

These are not in a particular order. Everyone on this list is a great travel channel on YouTube. There is something to suit everyone’s taste.

1. MIKE COREY

Mike is one of the most innovative storytellers in travel on YouTube. With his unique editing, fantastic footage and wild sense of adventure you’ll love watching his videos from around the world. Because of his high production value, Mike is hired a lot for companies and brands to make professional travel videos on their channels. Mike is so charismatic, he is a host on the BBC Travel channel too!

2. Drew Binsky

When we first wrote this list (and Christine wrote hers) Drew Binskey wasn’t even on the radar yet. And now he has exploded to become the most successful youtube travel channel out there. He is on a mission to visit every single country on earth and Drew shares videos that take you off the beaten path. He is always showing you what it is really like to travel to a place and he features locals in interviews showcasing their culture and every day life.

3. ARIENNE PARZEI

Arienne has burst onto the scene in the past year, but we’ve known her for quite some time. Winning the Best in Travel at the Buffer Festival in Toronto (this is considered the Oscars of YouTube Travel) she has gone none stop producing quality videos. Her 8 part video series highlights her climb of Mount Kilimanjaro with World Vision Canada. Her videos are professional quality and she is highly sought after by brands and destinations to produce travel videos.

4. Going Awesome Places

Will of Going Awesome Places covers everything travel. From what travel gear he uses, to giving you inspiration to create your own trips. We love his editing style, use of drones and the feeling of taking you into the destination as you travel along. Will has some great adventures and is a serious adventure traveler but he also has a lot of fun showing travels that everyone can do too!

5. Tourist2Townie

Gareth travels slow and really delves into the destination that he visits. Tourist2Townie travelled extensively in Brazil and became a sensation in Brazil. While visiting a Rio favela, we even saw his logo plastered on the walls of the community. Now that’s fame! 

He’s now left South America and is bigger than ever traveling the world and sharing his video series from each country he visits on his exceptional travel channel.

6. Expert Vagabond

Matthew Karsten is the king of adventure travel doing everything from diving with sharks in South Africa (without a cage) to trekking solo across Greenland. If you want inspiration or need some motivation to get your lazy butt off the couch, check out his videos that he’s posted from his years of travelling around the world.

Update: We shared Matt’s video above in 2019 when updating this article and couldn’t believe this moment never went viral. Well guess what? It finally hit the big time and everyone is buzzing about that penguin now. Check it out.

7. Steve Hanisch

Steve is another travel videographer with high production value on his travel channel that is sought after by tourism board and travel brands. He speaks around the world about making travel videos and produces his videos in both English and German. He’s also got a great sense of humour and is an all-around nice guy.

8. Be My Travel Muse

Kristin is one of the top female travel bloggers and is making waves in the travel vlogging world now too! Travel along with your laid back vibe as she goes around the world to places like the Philippines and Mexico to everywhere in between. She does adventure travels and we love how she chats directly to the audience making you feel like a friend.

Maiku runs his own production company and has won several video awards. We always love checking out his videos. He has put together some great video series that keep you hooked on what is coming next. I really like his behind the scenes information and journalist quality videos like the video above showcasing the Toronto restaurant market.

10. David’s Been Here

David Hoffmann has been traveling the world since 2008. We met him in Istanbul and since that time his YouTube Channel that focuses on food and travel has skyrocketed! With videos uploaded nearly every day from 77 countries and over 1,000 destinations, you’ll never run out of things to watch!

11. Getting Stamped

Adam and Hanna are that dreamy couple that you see on commercials showcasing exotic destinations. They were made for starring in their own travel channel. We love going to island destinations with them as they showcase beautiful locales with their drone work and fanstastic cinematography.

12. Vacation Couple

Kristin and Shadi specialize in resort tours and when we book vacations, we check out their travel channel first. Shadi is a graphic artist by trade, so his work is second to none. When you watch their travel videos, you feel like you are watching a Club Med advertisement and will want to book a luxurious getaway right now!

13. Nomadasaurus

Alesha and Jarryd are an Australian adventure couple that have been on the go for since meeting in a hostel in 2008. They’ve recently returned home after a decade of traveling the world and are showcasing their life in a van through fun videos. We love their organic style and sense of adventure in their videos.

14. Christopher Rudder

Chris is a fellow Canuck who shares his love for travel through his cinematic style and very sexy voiceovers. (this is Deb talking here 🙂 I feel like I am watching a full on travel show when watching Chris as he covers everything from adventure to food, culture and city guides.

15. CAILIN O’NEIL

Cailin was one of the first travel bloggers/youtubers we ever discovered. Coming from a film and TV background she puts a lot of information and personality into her videos. Cailin is a fellow Canuck who has a great sense of humour and a talent for storytelling. Coming from a film and tv background, she makes her travel videos feel like a proper documentary-like one of our favourites the Tomatino Festival.

16. Cammy D

Cameron is the son of one of the world’s top travel writers, Heather Greenwood Davis and he is going to be a star. While still in school, he’s been producing travel vlogs about travels that he’s been on with his family. He’s been branching out recently from travel to tackle subjects like racism, the importance of youth voices, and even showing off his talents in video games.

17. Brendan Vanson

Brendan has a great mix of photography tuturials and day vlogging. Mixing his talents for photography and his great sense of humour, he has been able to carve out a unique niche that has attracted a large following. If you love to take pictures of your travels, you’ll love his getting the shots series “Where he explains how he takes his breathtaking images.

18. ThePlanetD

While you are browsing, check out our travel channel on YouTube. We put up new videos every week.

We have adventure travel videos from all seven continents doing everything kayaking in Antarctica and learning to whitewater kayak, to taking a luxury train journey through the Rocky Mountains.

Give us a Follow us on YouTube: We’ve posted nearly 400 videos on our Travel Channel from our 100+ countries visited. You’ll have hours of entertainment and a few laughs.

If you haven’t noticed, there are a lot of Canadians on this list. I didn’t know it until I compiled this one but clearly We Canucks tend to have a lot of love for each other. This list is also not in a particular order.

What’s Your Favourite YouTube Travel Channel?

Do you have a favourite YouTube Travel Channel? Make sure to leave a link in the comments below. We’ll keep adding as we find them! 

• 15 Top Travel Vloggers on YouTube
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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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28 thoughts on “17 Best YouTube Travel Channels to Follow”

i culdnt find any better travel insights than this , thanks a bunch

wow, thanks for putting this piece of information together

Thank you Dave and Deb for sharing this great article. Me and my wife We love travelling and when we not travelling, we can watch someone else travelling…)

An indeed insightful collection of travel youtube channels one would wish to watch.

Thank you very much theplanetd.com to telling us about inspiring travel channel.

This Guy “Indigo Traveller” is really a worthy mention. Gives us an insight into North Korea

Way late to the game but I’d recommend Indigo Traveller. He puts out lots of great content, goes to a number of less poplar destinations (including NK), and seems like a genuinely awesome guy to boot.

Check out Chasing Everywhere! She travel the world full time and makes videos of unique places she finds. Really beautiful drone footage and great tips and tricks! youtube.com/chasingeverywhere

Thanks for letting us know. We’ll definitely check them out! This post is a year or so old, so it is time to update it for sure. Cheers Deb

Hey there! When/if you update your YouTube adventure travels to watch list, maybe consider QE Adventures (short for Quinn and Ethan Adventures).

These teenage brothers are skilled videographers and editors and personably narrate their family friendly high adventures in a style that makes audiences wish they’d come along. It’s one of the few channels with videos from the teenage travelers’ perspectives.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1K9qsPWma9X-tEmrK4wq6Q

Love this post!! Thankyou!! So much inspiration in one page its insane! You guys should definitely check out our youtube channel too! We are Mami & Papi – young parents with a passion for life! Our channel is recent but slowly upcoming – we hope to become insipration to others too one day 🙂 https://m.youtube.com/channel/UC8vQHR5Du1dx1LVEoqL_KUQ

Thanks for sharing your channel. I’ll be sure to check it out and all the best to you!

Hi, Dave and Deb.

Have to say a relay wonderful blog 🙂 Something similar what we have started our self, but we are aiming for local travel experience in our small but very beautiful country Lithuania. As I see you haven’t been here. You are very very welcomed here. Although we are small but that does not mean we don’t have anything to show 🙂 Would be super so see your experience of our countr here 🙂

Cheers, Auste and Justas @ TravelingLithuania

Thanks! We’d love to come to Lithuania in the near future.

What is with the popularity contest? This is the same boring list that everyone publishes. I’m so tired of seeing the same people on these lists, two of whom should not be included!

You are more than welcome to add some names. We asked if anyone had someone to add. So put them on the list. These are the people we follow and enjoy. Also, there is another list that Christine wrote for us just before we compiled this one. that we talked about at the beginning of this blog post. (if you read it) And the reason we decided to do a part two. Sorry if you are not on it, I am not familiar with your videos, but I’ll take a look. I don’t know everyone out there. But I try.

Ah, I just went and took a look at your YouTube travel channel and see that you haven’t posted in two years. That would be the reason I hadn’t thought of you. Good luck if you start posting again. PS, I deleted your comment made under the John Doe email address as I see it is from the same IP address as you, (within minutes of each other) and nobody needs to read a second complaint saying the same thing by you under a pseudonym. But I left yours up because I feel that people have a right to their opinion. Cheers!

Great collection, getting entertained and inspired to travel. Thanks

Amazing collection of channels here! I really dig the aggregation and attribution going on. Thanks for sharing these channels with us!

Thanks for the recommendations, I will check these out!

So my channel isn’t quite as robust as many of the ones mentioned here, but it does highlight a part of the world that none of these Youtube channels even go near. Check it out! I’d love to hear your feedback.

Xinjiang | FarWestChina Youtube Channel

Thanks for sharing Josh, I’ll definitely check you out! You should leave your link so everyone can find you!

Thanks i will bookmark this for making video.

Great post! Will be hanging out on YouTube for the rest of the night!

Awesome read, i mostly use YouTube for food so its great to see that there are some awesome streams about travel that will excite my wanderlust 🙂 lovely read

I like this blog. thanks for the blog. it was very informative and the pictures are captured very beautifully.

Great photos. thanks for the blog. I like this blog.

The one thing that you have noticed is that those who make YouTube travel video has best of their components and top quality video camera devices which let them take best of shots make them look like a professional photographer.

Watch CBS News

How to travel around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore: A look at the traffic impact and alternate routes

By Rohan Mattu

Updated on: April 1, 2024 / 8:13 AM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early on the morning of March 26  led to a major traffic impact for the region and cut off a major artery into and out of the port city. 

Drivers are told to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.

Alternate routes after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Maryland transit authorities quickly put detours in place for those traveling through Dundalk or the Curtis Bay/Hawkins Point side of the bridge. The estimated 31,000 who travel the bridge every day will need to find a new route for the foreseeable future. 

The outer loop I-695 closure shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access. 

The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed. 

Alternate routes are I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes. 

Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.    

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? 

The Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping. 

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C. 

The bridge was built after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA. 

Tractor-trailer inspections

Tractor-trailers that now have clearance to use the tunnels will need to be checked for hazardous materials, which are not permitted in tunnels, and that could further hold up traffic. 

The MDTA says vehicles carrying bottled propane gas over 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) or the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).  

Any vehicles transporting hazardous materials should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels, officials said. 

• Francis Scott Key Bridge
• Bridge Collapse
• Patapsco River

Rohan Mattu is a digital producer at CBS News Baltimore. Rohan graduated from Towson University in 2020 with a degree in journalism and previously wrote for WDVM-TV in Hagerstown. He maintains WJZ's website and social media, which includes breaking news in everything from politics to sports.

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SLEET, SNOW, RAIN, AND WIND

The worst of this storm will be steaming through overnight and Thursday morning. Sleet is a big problem as it accumulates northwest of Worcester especially. Snow is farther north in New England. The passing of the storm center Thursday morning will shift winds to the north, bringing cold air south. That’ll change sleet and rain to snow into the afternoon all the way to Boston.

WINTER STORM WARNINGS and WINTER WEATHER ADVISORIES are in place for the slick travel and plowable sleet and snow.

Strong winds will accompany the storm center. Expect gusts over 50 mph along the coast and in the hills. A HIGH WIND WARNING is in place for those damaging gusts. That will likely lead to some power outages. It will also churn up the ocean. A COASTAL FLOOD WARNING is in place for Thursday morning’s high tide along the Massachusetts coastline.

The storm pulls away Thursday, leaving us with snow showers and gusty winds. The snow and rain showers will continue Friday and Saturday.

DRYING FOR THE SUN

Expect some sun to break out Sunday, but Monday is looking even better! Sunshine and highs around 60 are in the forecast for the eclipse.

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