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The 17 Best Things to Do in Boston

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.

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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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Massachusetts (MA) » 25 Best Things to Do in Boston (MA)

25 Best Things to Do in Boston (MA)

Boston, founded in 1630, is Massachusetts’ capital and also its largest city and, as of 2020, has approximately 684,000 residents. It is famed for the key role it played in the American Revolution as well as being home to many prestigious universities and technical colleges such as Harvard Medical and Business Schools, MIT, Boston University, Berklee College of Music, Tuffs University and University of Massachusetts Amherst to name just a few.

One of the best ways to get a real feel for this interesting city is to explore it by foot, and I have suggested a few walking tours within this guide. Let’s explore some of the best things to do and see in Boston.

1. Museum of Fine Arts

Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is one of North America’s largest, and home to more than 450,000 works of art. The museum is huge, so make sure the family have on their comfortable walking shoes.

The museum’s collection is spectacular, and includes a wonderful array of French Impressionist paintings as well as a magnificent Classical collection, where you can enjoy taking in the plentiful amount of frescos and sculptures from the Villa of the Contrado Bottaro in Pompeii.

There are regular special exhibits too and certainly something for the whole family to enjoy. Plan on making a whole day of it.

2. Boston Public Garden

These charming public gardens were created in 1634 and modified in the Victorian Age, with the assistance of the then newly formed Boston Parks and Recreation Department, introducing over 80 species of plants from both local and varied locations around the city.

Vibrant floral patterns were created using the very new techniques of hybridizing and propagating, eventually leading to the importing of exotic trees and plants. A popular attraction for all the family as you stroll past the famous Swan Boats operated and created over 100 years ago, the lovely lake and fountains, and variety of trees. There are plenty of benches on which to relax, too.

3. Fenway Park Tour

Take the family on a tour of Fenway Park, home to the famous Boston Red Sox. It will make attending future games even more fun. Fenway Park is the oldest ball park in Major League Baseball history and, though relatively small and only able to seat 40,000 spectators, has certain seen plenty of exciting baseball, soccer and hockey action, not to mention political and religious campaigns.

Fenway has hosted the World Series ten times, its inaugural season starting from the 1912 World Series. You will tour the stadium, visitors’ club house, press room, and the seats above the ‘Green Monster’, nickname for the 37’2” high left field wall, popular because it is only 310 feet away from home plate.

4. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

A completely new type of museum, this is where the family can view not only artifacts of historical importance but also enjoy a multi sensory experience.

This floating museum is made up of high tech interactive exhibits, restored tea ships, absorbing documentaries all about this famous event and knowledgeable actors bringing you a sense of how it all happened, with a perfect sense of flair and drama! There is also the opportunity of throwing the tea overboard. A very interesting and enlightening time for all, rounded off with a visit to the café and well stocked gift shop.

Recommended tour: Boston Tea Party: Ships & Museum Interactive Tour

5. John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library

Dedicated to the tragically brief life of John F. Kennedy, this museum and library depicts the famous man’s leadership and legacy, while at the same time illustrating the nature of a President’s office.

The beautiful building was constructed to overlook the President’s beloved Boston, offering a wonderful view of the city skyline as well as an outdoor walkway along the Dorchester Bay.

The museum is full of fascinating artifacts, photos and videos which also include interesting items such as a number of his spouse Jackie’s dresses.

6. Old North Church

This is Boston’s oldest surviving church. Founded in 1722, Old North Church is also the city’s most visited historical site being the location from which the phrase “One if by land, and two if by sea” signal is thought to have been sent, which relates to Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride of April 18, 1775 preceding the American Revolution battles of Lexington and Concord.

Within the church is also a bust of George Washington. A small but interesting historical church which the whole family will enjoy visiting.

7. Boston Brewery Tours

These fun tours offer both a day and evening option, and consist of a super time for the visiting adults of the family. The tours focus on the city’s popular brew/pub scene with the chance to learn all about the mechanics and history of brewing beer, as well as visiting four different Boston breweries.

Enjoy learning all about the making of beer, talk with some brewery owners, participate in either a lunch or dinner (dependent on which tour you have chosen) and the opportunity to sample between 15 to 20 award-winning pilsners, stouts and other beers.

There will be a small amount of walking involved. The tours are also wheelchair accessible.

Related tour : Craft Brewery Beer Tour

8. Yummy Walks

How does a culinary walking tour for all the family that includes plenty of mouth watering goodies sound?

This three and a half hour outing will take you through North End, Boston’s Italian district, stopping at various venues to sample amazing balsamic vinegars, olive oil, pancetta and delicious cheeses, before sitting down to a lunch consisting of ample portions of three different pasta dishes, then continuing on to a pizzeria serving huge slices of wood fired pizza.

Next, enjoy several local artisanal caramels and chocolates. And, if you still have room, a final stop to sample one of the best cannolo that you and your family will have ever tasted.

Website : https://foodtoursboston.com/

9. Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill, a neighborhood of Federal style row houses, is not only a historic part of Boston but also one of the most desirable areas to live in these days! It is worth having a walk around the area to view its brick sidewalks and narrow streets with their prettily decorated lampposts.

As you and your family explore the district passing through Charles Street and Louisbourg Square, home to some of Boston’s most lavish properties, you will understand why it is such a popular spot. There are also some lovely cafes and shops to explore.

10. The Arnold Arboretum

This is a lovely spot for the whole family to enjoy. Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum was designed by American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted and is the second largest “link” in the Emerald Necklace, which consists of a 1,100 acre chain of parks that are linked by waterways ad parkways throughout Boston.

The Arboretum consists of trees and shrubs from all over the globe which are all well marked and described. There is a choice to follow the regular pathways or ones which can take you off the paved roads. A fabulous day out and also a super learning experience for all the family. Easily accessible for wheelchair users.

11. The Museum of Science

Together with over 700 interactive exhibits and various live presentations on show throughout the building, the Museum of Science is a Boston landmark. As well as its presentations, it is also home to the Mugar Omni Theater and Charles Hayden Planetarium.

And if that wasn’t enough to keep the kids interested, the museum is also part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and home to over 100 rescued and rehabilitated animals.

The MOS is a perfect learning arena for both adults and kids, even very little ones. There is also a lovely café serving delicious food (though you are allowed to bring your own refreshments).

Included in : Boston CityPASS

12. Quincy Market

One of Boston’s favorites, Quincy Market is located in a historic area constructed in 1824 and named in remembrance of Mayor Josiah Quincy, who had arranged its construction without any debt or tax.

The colorful, always lively market is made up of interesting knick knacks, souvenirs in which to buy your mementos of Boston and a fabulous food hall that has so many delectable culinary items you really will be spoilt for choice.

And if any members of the family enjoy playing chess and other games, there are even tables set up for this during the day. And for all of you “Cheers” fans out there, there is a replica of the famous bar there too.

13. The Printing Office of Edes & Gill

This printing office is a real hidden gem and could easily be missed as it is so small!

Founded in 1713, the Clough House is one of Boston’s oldest surviving brick residences and, walking into the historic building, you and your family are sure to feel as if you have stepped back in time.

Within the printing office are members dressed in colonial attire, happy to demonstrate the mechanics of the printing press, while at the same time emphasizing the importance of free speech and the necessity of communication distribution.

Nearby are two adjoining townhouses, used for social, civic, administrative, and educational and parish programs.

14. Boston Children’s Museum

In 1909, the idea for a children’s museum in Boston was developed when several local science teachers decided it would be a wonderful idea to create a general learning arena. The museum is popular with both locals and visitors, having earned its reputation for never treating children in a condescending manner or taking them less than seriously.

The exhibits within are appealing to kids of a wide age spectrum, including an enormous sculpture in the middle of the first floor where they can safely climb up 3-4 floors. The museum is well run, clean, and safe and with an abundance of hands on activities to keep kids of all ages happily amused.

15. New England Aquarium

Opened in 1969, this aquarium is now a global leader in marine conservation and ocean exploration. It draws more than 1.3 million visitors a year as well as being a primary public education resource.

Its huge multistory level tank is filled with fascinating sea life, with helpful software that is attached to glass viewing panels that enables you and the family to identify its inhabitants. There is lots of fascinating marine life to see, from stingray touching pools to little sharks and from horseshoe crabs to starfish.

The kids will love the star attraction; the penguins and the great amusement they procure when it’s time for their meal.

Book online : New England Aquarium Entry Ticket

16. Skywalk Observatory

For a magnificent view of Boston, take the family to the Skywalk Observatory which is the city’s only sky high vantage point offering a sweeping 360 degree view.

The Observatory is situated in the Prudential Tower (spoken of locally as ‘The Pru’). You can also learn a lot about Boston’s history by listening to one of the available Acoustiguide tours (available in a variety of languages) which details the history of this great city. The kids will love it simply for the view.

You can visit either in the day or the evening, when you will be able to appreciate the glittering night view.

17. Boston Ballet

The Boston Ballet was New England’s first professional repertory ballet company, founded in 1963, and now made up of 69 dancers and 20 nationalities, performing within the historic 2,500 seat Boston Opera House.

Boston Ballet opened the Nervi Festival in Italy in 1979 and was also the first American dance company to perform in the People’s Republic of China.

Famous for its performance of The Nutcracker and voted ‘Best Loved Nutcracker Production in the U.S. in 2009, a visit to one of the ballet’s shows will be a real hit with the ballet lovers of the family.

18. Captain Jackson’s Historic Chocolate Shop

For a taste of the sweeter side of the Revolution, why not drop into this historic chocolate shop, where you can learn all about the history of chocolate and how it was produced and eater during the American colonial period?

Named after the owner himself, within the shop you and your family will be able to learn all about the chocolate making process by one of the knowledgeable staff, dressed in period clothing, and also have the opportunity to sample either a historically accurate colonial style chocolate drink or a piece of the wonderful confection itself.

19. The Mapparium

This fascinating attraction, built in 1935 by Rand McNally, is made up of a three story tall stained glass globe which is viewed from a 30 foot long bridge through its interior.

The Mapparium was designed so that the countries of the world could be viewed in accurate geographical relationship to each other, hence its design, a mirror image, concave reversal of the Earth, viewed from within.

This is a wonderful learning experience for all the family with the opportunity to view the world as it then was, showing long disused ‘labels’ such as Siam and Italian East Africa.

20. The Paul Revere House

Not only the original colonial home to the American patriot Paul Revere during the time of the American Revolution, but this is also the oldest house in Boston, built about 1680.

Now a museum, this three story house is home to a well preserved interior in which your family will feel as if they were living a piece of famous history itself.

There is plenty of commentary to listen to from the museum’s enthusiast staff and though no pictures are allowed to be taken in the house, there are many mementos to purchase such as Paul Revere reproductions, cards, prints, educational material and books for both adults and kids.

21. RoomEscapers

This is a fabulous team building exercise for all family. RoomEscapers offers 60 minutes of interactive fun in which you can put together your individual talents to solve the clues and puzzles you will be presented with, all based on real events in New England, so you will be benefiting from a fun history lesson as well.

With perfectly thought out clues and rooms designed to ensure you get the most out of them, this really makes for an interesting and invigorating time for everyone. And, should you get stuck at any time, proprietor Jeff is on hand to give you some helpful hints.

22. Franklin Park Zoo

Usually careful about encouraging visits to each and every zoo, I have no hesitation in recommending Franklin Park Zoo to everybody.

The 72 acre zoo’s mission is to inspire people to sustain and protect the natural world by creating engaging experiences that help integrate wildlife and conservation programs.

The zoo is clean and easy to navigate with lots of interesting information about its various residents. This is a lovely outing for all the family; just bear in mind however that during the winter months you might not be seeing all the animals as some of them might be tucked up and cosy, waiting for the warmer weather.

Book online : Franklin Park Zoo Entry Ticket

23. Trident Booksellers & Cafe

This surely has to be the perfect venue to satisfy all the readers and foodies in the family.

Since 1984, this busy and friendly bookseller and café has been providing the Boston community with sustenance for both body and mind.

The café offers delicious food, a generous choice of refreshments from aromatic coffees, teas, to smoothies and fruit juices for the youngsters, and thousands of books from which to take your pick.

As if that wasn’t enough, the cafe also offers free Wi-Fi and an eclectic variety of magazines and cards. A perfect venue to spend time and talk about your Boston vacation!

24. The Paint Bar

The Paint Bar is a fun, well run business where the whole family can enjoy some creative time together.

Each session lasts for two and a half hours, which should be enough time to make your artistic mark. The Paint Bar will supply you with a 16’ x 20’ pre-stretched canvas, brushes, acrylic paint, easels, and apron.

You can either bring your own food and drink or purchase it there, and there is even a BYOB option for family members over 21 years of age. The friendly staff will be happy to guide and advise your family from the first moment they are presented with a blank canvas to step by step, creating a respectable piece of art.

25. Boston Harborwalk

Take a family walk along the Harbor by following the Waterfront Trail which passes along the edge of wharves, piers, beaches and shoreline.

You will discover some very quaint areas as you traverse the city’s many different attractions, while at the same time enjoying some fresh air and exercise. And, if you get a little weary, you can always take a water taxi.

Harborwalk is in the process of expanding and, when fully completed, will extend in total to 46.9 miles from Chelsea Creek to Neponset River.

25 Best Things to Do in Boston (MA):

• Museum of Fine Arts
• Boston Public Garden
• Fenway Park Tour
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
• John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library
• Old North Church
• Boston Brewery Tours
• Yummy Walks
• Beacon Hill
• The Arnold Arboretum
• The Museum of Science
• Quincy Market
• The Printing Office of Edes & Gill
• Boston Children's Museum
• New England Aquarium
• Skywalk Observatory
• Boston Ballet
• Captain Jackson's Historic Chocolate Shop
• The Mapparium
• The Paul Revere House
• RoomEscapers
• Franklin Park Zoo
• Trident Booksellers & Cafe
• The Paint Bar
• Boston Harborwalk

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These Are the 30 Best Things to See and Do in Boston

With historic sights, beloved hometown sports teams, a thriving arts scene, and local brews and bites, you'll never be bored in Boston.

Boston is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 most-visited cities in the United States — and for good reason. Home to a thriving food and drink scene, historic landmarks, and activities for all types of travelers, the city offers plenty to keep visitors occupied. So, whether you're on a solo adventure or traveling with the whole family, here are 30 of the best things to do in Boston.

Walk the Freedom Trail.

The two-and-a-half-mile, self-guided Freedom Trail tour takes visitors through the city, telling the story of the American Revolution with stops at museums, churches, meeting houses, and other historical markers along the way. Do it alone, or find tour options here .

Step back in time at the Paul Revere House.

Want even more Boston history? Head to the Paul Revere House . The home, which was once owned by Revere and sold in 1800, served as everything from a boarding house to a local shop to tenement apartments. Now, it's a museum offering guided tours of the restored home that will transport you back in time.

Stroll through the Boston Common.

The Boston Common is the very heart and soul of the city. First built in 1634, it is the oldest public park in the United States. On the park's 50 acres of land, guests will find the Frog Pond, a softball field, and monuments galore. Take your time strolling through the landscaped gardens and enjoying the sights.

See the animals at the New England Aquarium.

For more than 50 years, the New England Aquarium has invited guests to come and meet a few of the coolest sea creatures on Earth. From penguins to sharks, stingrays to seals, and everything in between, the aquarium has all kinds of animals for curious visitors. It's also a working research aquarium, meaning visits and donation dollars partially go toward ocean conservation and preserving these species for generations to come.

Take the kids to the Franklin Park Zoo.

For even more animal adventures, pay a visit to the Franklin Park Zoo . The 72-acre zoo is the place to be for a red panda, tiger, or zebra sighting right in the middle of the city. There are also plenty of expert-led chats to attend, as well as children's events, making it a place the entire family will love.

Or, see animals in their natural habitat with a whale-watching tour.

Take to the waters outside of Boston for a high-seas adventure like a whale-watching excursion . Hop aboard a tour with the New England Aquarium and Boston Harbor City Cruises to see whales, dolphins, and sea birds on their migration routes — all from a safe distance, of course.

Go for a walk around the Esplanade.

Another worthy place for a stroll is the Esplanade, a three-mile path that hugs the Charles River. It's an excellent spot for a walk or bike ride along the lovely green spaces on the banks of the river, where you can watch boaters. And if you're so inclined, you can donate to the Esplanade Association , a nonprofit working to preserve the space for more than two decades.

Violet Smirnova/Travel + Leisure

Take to the Charles River.

You may feel inclined to get on the water yourself — and you can do just that by joining Community Boating Boston on a sail. The organization offers sailboat, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals for those feeling adventurous.

Watch a midnight movie at Coolidge.

The Coolidge Corner Theater, which first opened its doors during the golden age of cinema in 1933, is already one of the most incredible places to see a movie in the city. But to up the ante, try and visit for one of its After Midnite showings. The late-night programming includes horror films and off-beat flicks, making it great for an after-dark fright.

Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Isabella Stewart Gardner was a woman who knew what she liked. She was a millionaire, a bohemian, and an intellectual, and the museum bearing her name is a gem of Boston's thriving art scene, with luxurious landscaped grounds. Perhaps some of the museum's most famous works aren't hanging on the walls, though, as eagle-eyed visitors can spot empty frames that once held priceless pieces, stolen from the space in a famed art heist in 1990.

Spend a day at the Institute of Contemporary Art.

The iconic Institute of Contemporary Art is housed in 65,000-square-feet of space, making it a spot where you can easily spend an entire day. The institute includes gallery exhibits, a theater, and a cafe, along with a gorgeous outdoor deck so you can get a breath of fresh air and reflect on all the works you've just seen. Plus, admission to the institute is free on Thursdays after 5 p.m., but make sure to snag your timed ticket in advance.

See the Arnold Arboretum.

The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is a living museum of trees and plant life, with a particular focus on flora and fauna from eastern North America and Asia. This National Historic Landmark is open every day and always free for visitors.

Scope out the treasures at The Museum of Fine Arts.

The Museum of Fine Arts is a crown jewel in Boston's museum scene. It includes American works of art and artifacts from around the globe, including pieces from across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The museum also holds collections in photography, musical instruments, textiles, and more.

Swing by Encore Boston Harbor.

Encore Boston Harbor is the place to go if you're looking for some good old-fashioned fun. The entertainment venue, which opened in 2019, includes a hotel, five-star dining options, shopping, and even a casino for those wanting to roll the dice and test their luck. Head out for a meal, stay for a game, and perhaps book an overnight stay so you can do it all again tomorrow.

Shop on Newbury Street.

Visitors to Boston could make an entire vacation out of just strolling down Newbury Street. The famed street is chock-full of boutique shops, restaurants, galleries, and more, so you may have to visit more than once to ensure you've seen and done it all. Keep track of pop-up events on the street's website here .

"Travel" the world at the Mapparium.

The Mapparium may just be the best way to "see" the world without ever leaving Boston. The three-story site is actually the world's largest walk-in globe. Guests can walk through the globe via a bridge dissecting its equator before leaving to check out "Our World: Mapping Progress," an exhibit highlighting "humanity's advancement since 1935."

Root for the Red Sox at Fenway.

There is arguably nothing more iconic in Boston than Fenway Park . If you visit during the regular baseball season, try to get tickets to a game. While inside, cheer for home runs over the Green Monster and get ready to sing "Sweet Caroline" at least once.

And cheer on the Celtics and the Bruins at TD Garden.

Visitors to Boston can continue to root for the hometown team by getting tickets to a Celtics or Bruins game, depending on the season. Luckily, both teams play under one roof at TD Garden , which also hosts plenty of concerts, so check the calendar to see what shows or games you can take part in next.

Grab a good book at the Boston Public Library.

When constructed in 1848, the Boston Public Library became the first large free public library in the nation. It remains a place where visitors can check out a good book or read in the public spaces. The library hosts both tours and regular events, so check its calendar and see what piques your interest.

Grab a bite at Boston Public Market.

The Boston Public Market , a year-round indoor marketplace, hosts nearly 30 New England-based food purveyors and artisans. It's also a place you can feel good about visiting, as it's a registered nonprofit with public impact goals to support "economic development, New England food system resilience, public health and education, affordability, and access."

Drink a local brew at Samuel Adams Boston Brewery.

Boston is home to a thriving craft beer scene, though the best-known spot for brews is popular brand Sam Adams. The company now sells its brews just about everywhere and even allows guests to come and taste its latest creations on a brewery tour. See all tour options here .

Devour dessert with a cannoli from Mike's Pastry.

There are plenty of excellent places to grab a cannoli in Boston's Italian mecca, the North End. Walk into any bakery in the neighborhood and you'll surely be delighted. But if you need a little guidance, we suggest heading to Mike's Pastry . It's the largest bakery in the neighborhood and wildly popular, but for good reason. Just be prepared to wait in line for your sweet treat.

Explore more city history on a walking tour of Chinatown.

In the 1880s, Chinese immigrants to Boston founded their own community, now known as Chinatown. The neighborhood has always played a significant role in the city's history and is a place where visitors can come to both learn and dine to their heart's delight. Hop on a Boston by Foot tour to ensure you see and dig in at all the right spots.

Watch a show at the Boston Ballet.

The Boston Ballet has delighted audiences since the 1960s, with performances ranging from classics like George Balanchine's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and Mikko Nissinen's "Swan Lake," as well as modern pieces by William Forsythe, Jiří Kylián, Wayne McGregor, and more.

Waddle around on a Boston Duck Tour.

The Duck Tour may not have started in Boston, but the city has certainly perfected it. We'd be remiss not to mention this as a perfect Boston attraction for out-of-town visitors, as it goes to all the best city locations and even right onto the Charles River thanks to the amphibious vehicles. See all tour options here .

Shop and dine at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Want to pack as much Boston as you can into a single place? Simply head to Faneuil Hall . The famed marketplace is home to more than 70 retailers across its 200,000-square-foot space, including food, apparel, and specialty gift shops. It's a place to see and do it all, and it's especially magical if you can visit during the holiday season.

Learn something new at the Museum of Science.

Boston's Museum of Science may be one of the most fun spots in the city. It's filled with interactive exhibits that will surprise, delight, and leave you in awe. Head there to learn about the evolution of dinosaurs, see its exhibit on how vaccines work, and much more.

Stop by Trinity Church.

If you love architecture, design, and history, Trinity Church should be high on your list of things to see in Boston. A National Historic Landmark, the church is also considered by the American Institute of Architects to be one the country's top 10 buildings thanks to its Richardsonian Romanesque design and stained-glass windows. The church is open for both worship and tours throughout the week.

Get medieval at Castle Island.

Castle Island is a hidden gem that even locals tend to overlook. We're not quite sure how considering there is an entire castle-like fort hiding in plain sight. The 22-acre "island" isn't actually an island anymore after a small strip of land was added to connect it to shore, but that doesn't make it any less special. Visitors can come to tour the fort, walk the grounds, or head to its trails for a bit of rollerblading or biking.

Pick up new art at the SoWa studios.

Stroll through the SoWa studios and get a glimpse of the fantastic work from the city's artistic community. Visitors can swing by the first Friday of every month for open gallery tours or make an appointment with an artist to get up close to the works before buying.

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Boston, Massachusetts is an essential New England destination. In fact, it’s the first stop on my epic New England road trip itinerary . You won’t be at all surprised to hear that there are tons of fun things to do in Boston.

As New England’s biggest and most famous city, Boston is where old meets new. The convergence of historical sites and modern attractions can be seen within every cobblestone street and modern shopping center. You can start your day at Paul Revere’s House and end your night on a downtown rooftop bar. The possibilities are endless.

If you’re planning to spend some time in Boston, there’s no shortage of amazing activities, experiences, and food to be had here. From the world-class museums and trolley rides to seaside restaurants and quirky ghost tours , Beantown checks all the boxes. To make sure you do and see all the best this city has to offer, here is my ultimate things to do in Boston bucket list: 50 fabulous things to do in the city!  

Table of Contents

Wander the Museum of Fine Arts.

This behemoth of an art museum, located on Huntington Ave, has over 100 galleries that display only a fraction of its massive 450,000-piece collection. Over 1 million visitors wander the MFA each year to view artifacts from the Americas, Folk and Contemporary, Egyptian mummies, famous impressionist painters, and special traveling exhibitions. Tickets sell out fast, so purchase them in advance to ensure you get in.

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Make friends with penguins at the New England Aquarium.

For the aquatically inclined, the New England Aquarium is not to be missed. This massive public aquarium, found right in Boston’s lively seaport neighborhood, is home to an incredible collection of over 600 aquatic species. Visit any day of the week to see its giant squid, turtles, or penguins during feeding (one of our favorites!). Challenge yourself – can you catch a glimpse of every single one of the 20,000 types of animals living here?

Admire the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. 

I think that the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is one of Boston’s hidden gems. Although, it’s becoming more well known as people learn about the art heist that took place there. In 1990, a legendary art heist unfolded (history’s biggest art heist, in fact) during which 13 famous works of art were stolen without a trace. Over 20 years later, there are still no real leads on the theft or missing art, although there are some fascinating podcasts and documentaries out there.

But the heist aside, this fine art museum is well worth the visit, and the building is a work of art itself. You could spend hours perusing the glorious collection that Mrs. Isabella Stewart Gardner amassed and loved. 

I adored my visit to this museum. It is stunning throughout, from the iconic courtyard to the gorgeous works of art. And what is especially fascinating is that the frames of the stolen pieces still hang, an eerie reminder of what was lost.

Shop and dine at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Dubbed by America’s Founding Fathers in 1742 as “The Cradle of Liberty,” Faneuil Hall Marketplace has cobblestone promenades, impressive sweeping architecture, and over 70 retailers of specialty carts, locally owned shops, and restaurants. As Boston’s most popular shopping and dining spot, you can stay entertained here for hours on end.

Catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park.

Home to the MLB’s Boston Red Sox since 1912, Fenway Park is beloved by locals and visiting fans alike. See the Green Monster for yourself (both the green right field wall, and Wally the mascot!), cheer on Boston’s team, and indulge in overpriced snacks. What a wholesome all-American pastime!

Stroll the grounds of Boston Common. 

Boston Common , a 50-acre park at the center of the city, is often considered the heart and soul of Boston. It’s also the oldest public park in America, established in 1634 (before our nation’s founding!). Today, people love to jog, lounge, converse, and attend fun events here. In the winter, ice skating on Boston Common Frog Pond is a must-do activity.

Explore the first botanical garden in America.

Right next to Boston Common is the Boston Public Garden , the first botanical garden in America. With a gorgeous Victorian design, vibrant floral patterns, fountains, monuments and the Lagoon, the Public Garden is simply delightful. It’s a romantic spot, so don’t be shocked if you accidentally stumble upon a wedding!

Travel tip: Find the ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ sculpture near the corner of Charles and Beacon Street, it’s totally adorable. 

Have fun with your kids at the Boston Children’s Museum.

Bringing the whole family to Boston? Your kids will have an amazing time playing at the Boston Children’s Museum . Created for educating and bringing joy to children, this museum has various exhibits that teaches kids to be curious, investigate using their senses, build, and use their creativity. Plus, you don’t have to be young to enjoy bubbles!

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Learn about our 35th president at the JFK Library & Museum.

Interested in the life of John F. Kennedy? Well, Boston has the JFK Library & Museum , a building entirely dedicated to his life and legacy. You can explore permanent exhibits about his childhood, inauguration, the space program, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, and much more.

Tour the Mount Auburn Cemetery.

Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge is not your average burial ground. This expansive cemetery, where 100,000 people are buried, is also a National Historical Landmark, a botanical garden , and the resting place of many renowned individuals. From artists and poets like Winslow Homer and Henry Longfellow, to activists, inventors, and Supreme Court Justices, there are so many memorable lives to commemorate here. 

Jam out at Wally’s Cafe Jazz Club.

Curious about delving into the world of jazz, or just a lover of live music? Wally’s Cafe Jazz Club is the place to beat. This classy, old-school jazz club hosts local student performers 365 days a year. Get cozy in this historical building and unwind to some top-notch jazz and blues, performed by musicians mastering their craft.

Watch an art-house film at Brattle Theatre.

Brattle Theatre in Cambridge is a rare establishment. This repertory movie theater located in the charming Brattle Hall has only one screen, featuring just one movie at a time. It was established with the purpose of highlighting indie, art-house films, as well as foreign films and first-run films. You’ll find some cutting-edge cinema here, so stop by Brattle Theatre and watch something you can’t find in normal theaters.

Ride glow-in-the-dark swings at the Lawn on D.

Ever swung on a glow-in-the-dark swing? Well, a nighttime visit to the Lawn on D is your chance. This innovative outdoor event space has a big lawn and concessions, and it frequently hosts live concerts and other lawn game events. But most people know it for its O-shaped hanging swings that glow at night. They make for awesome photo ops (and just a generally fun time!). 

Learn about dinosaurs at the Museum of Science.

Located in Science Park, the Museum of Science is nothing short of a house of wonders. This part-science museum, part-indoor zoo has imagination-sparking educational exhibits, interactive installations, and life-sized dinosaur models! You’ll leave knowing significantly more about human anatomy, technology, and natural history, and have a great time in the process. 

My toddler son loved our recent visit to the Museum of Science Boston, and he especially enjoyed the massive planet of Mars suspended in the atrium area.

As for my husband and I, we couldn’t get enough of the robot dog from Boston Dynamics. Amazing stuff. The photo above shows one of the robotic dog models up close, but you could watch one in action behind the window to the right. Of course, after it does one pass around the space, you have to wait for it to lay down again and charge up a bit!

Witness American history at the Boston Tea Party Museum.

History buffs will get totally swept away in the legendary Boston Tea Party story at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. This amazing floating history museum is the definition of living history. Climb abroad replicas of the very ships docked at harbor in the 1700s, watch live reenactments, and stop by the tearoom for a taste. The thrilling 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party was just celebrated in December 2023 and hundreds of people turned out to join the occasion.

Visit Bunker Hill Monument.

Bunker Hill Monument in Boston, a 221-foot granite obelisk reminiscent of the Washington Monument in Washington D.C., commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill. This famous battle was one of the first significant engagements between Patriots and British soldiers in the Revolutionary War. There is a spiral staircase that will take you to the top of the monument as well, making for spectacular 360-degree aerial views. 

Find unique architecture at Trinity Church.

If you enjoy spotting unique church architecture when visiting a new city, Trinity Church is a beautiful one. This historical church was founded in the 1700s and was an important site during the American Revolution. Its original building actually burned down in 1776 but was subsequently rebuilt and now serves as an important pillar of the Boston community. 

Get your car fix at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum.

Do you love cars? Located in Brookline at the Anderson Carriage House is the oldest collection of motorcars in the United States. Larz Anderson Auto Museum houses a fantastic array of historical motorcars from the 1800s through the 20th century. And even the manicured museum grounds themselves are worth seeing!

Walk in Paul Revere’s footsteps at Old North Church.

Ever hear of Paul Revere’s famous ‘Midnight Ride’ through Boston? In 1775, Old North Church was his first stop on the ride, where he instructed two Patriots to climb to the steeple and hang lanterns to warn of British troops approaching. Aside from this fascinating piece of history, Old North is also the oldest church in the city and a National Historic Landmark. 

Visit the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy.

The USS Constitution is in the Charlestown Naval Yard, located next door to the USS Constitution Museum . This ship has a fascinating story – it was commissioned as a warship in the early years of America’s independence to defend it from invaders and pirates. Learn all about it at this commemorative and interactive museum. 

Take a sunset cruise around Boston Harbor.

There’s nothing quite like seeing Boston from the water. Boston Harbor Cruises offers a 90-minute sunset cruise around the harbor. Embarking from the Wharf at 7pm, you’ll learn interesting facts about the Boston cityscape. And there’s nothing better than taking in the views at golden hour, it’s very romantic !

You can check out the best Boston boat tours here!

Visit the site of the Boston Massacre. 

In 1770, five people were shot and killed by British soldiers who opened fire in front of the Old State House . Today, you can visit this stop on the Freedom Trail . Take a guided tour of the Old State House to learn about Revolutionary history, and this building’s role in the Declaration of Independence.

 Explore the Museum of African American History.

A significant historical and cultural institute showcasing the lives and contributions of African Americans is found right in Boston: the Museum of African American History . With two preserved historic sites, two Black Heritage Trails, and permanent exhibits, you will learn all about black individuals and communities from the Colonial era through the 19th century.  

Go shopping on Newbury Street.

Boston has a lot of charming, quaint history, but it also has very fashionable and modern districts. If you love to shop, not many strips are better than Newbury Street in the upscale Back Bay neighborhood. From Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters to Ralph Lauren and Nordstrom, you will be surrounded by the latest apparel and beauty trends .

And Newbury Street is extra charming with shops set inside these historic brownstones. It’s especially cute decorated for the holidays!

Hang out with gorillas at the Franklin Park Zoo.

This 72-acre zoo in Boston is home to hundreds of exotic animals from around the planet. Franklin Park Zoo is the place to go if you want to encounter majestic creatures, such as a family of gorillas, ancient tortoises, and crocodiles. You will be supporting an institution that conserves, protects, and promotes better care of the natural world.

Visit the home of Paul Revere.

Interested in the history of the American Revolution? You can visit the home of one of America’s most significant Revolutionary figures, Paul Revere. This 1680 house still stands today, preserved and open for tours in Boston’s North End. Go learn about the cultural heritage of Paul Revere and his importance to the early days of Boston and America as a nation.

Read Next:  Top 20 Historic Sites in Massachusetts

Enjoy recreation and Revolutionary history at Castle Island.

Castle Island is one of Boston’s most valuable outdoor gems. This peninsula off the Harbor of Boston is connected to the Harborwalk, and has beautiful parks and paths for walking, biking, and picnicking along the beautiful beach.

This is also the site of Fort Independence, a granite bastion that defended Boston’s harbor as early as the American Revolution.

Discover booktopia at the Boston Public Library.

There’s something so satisfying about a good city library, and Boston definitely has a killer one. Boston Public Library in Copley Square is the oldest public library in America and has gorgeous Beaux-Arts and Renaissance style architecture. It feels like a Hogwarts-esque dream come true (plus free books!).

Stroll along the Charles River Esplanade.

Located right in downtown Boston is the beloved Charles River Esplanade . This beautiful 3-mile stretch of green space along the Charles River is rich in recreational opportunities. Along this pedestrian pathway made for strolling and biking, you’ll see fascinating monuments, great city views, boat launches, and grassy picnic areas.

Crack open a cold one at Samuel Adams Brewery. 

Bostonians love their beer, period. Samuel Adams reigns king in the city (Harpoon is a close second), so it’s only natural you stop by the Samuel Adams Statue and then try a brew at Samuel Adams Taproom . These light and refreshing beers are served on tap, with offerings of light fare to go with your drink. You will also be right near Faneuil Hall, the Old State House, and other fascinating sites. 

Take a stroll along the Harborwalk.

Boston Harborwalk is a public pathway that extends for 43 miles along the shore of Boston. Not only is the Harborwalk amazing for recreational activities, social gatherings, and picnic lunches, but it’ll give you amazing views of the city and ocean. Access it from multiple locations in the North End or Downtown to enjoy the wharves, beaches, piers, and benches as you stroll along. 

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Take a Harvard University campus tour.

Want to explore America’s oldest college (established before America was even America)? Harvard University in Cambridge has an incredible campus for you to enjoy. With free public tours offered at the university, you can learn about Harvard’s history and wander the sprawling quads, historical buildings, multiple libraries, and museums. 

Visit the picturesque Beacon Hill neighborhood.

Dreaming of walking through a quaint, cobblestoned European town? Well, Boston has its very own neighborhood to make your dreams come true. Beacon Hill, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, is famous for its narrow cobblestone streets lined with federal style houses and lanterns. It feels like a magical fairytale, especially in autumn.

Don’t miss out on Acorn street, one of the best and most iconic photo spots in Boston. And be sure to step with care; those cobblestones are no joke!

Take a Boston beer tour.

Have people told you your eyes are bigger than your stomach? Well, you won’t be judged like that on a Boston Brew Tour . Embark on this 5-hour adventure to taste up to 16 different local brews at four different breweries. Enjoy entertainment, Boston beer history, transportation, and a deliciously paired meal at the end. Make sure to book your tickets in advance!

Hit the nightlife scene at Central Square.

Central Square in East Boston is an unsuspectingly happening neighborhood for nightlife. With everything from basement bars to clubs to fine dining and great music venues, this spot draws a youthful and lively crowd. Grab a pint at The Plough and Stars , then a gelato dessert at Toscanini’s , and when you’re finished catch a live show at The Middle East . 

Go ice skating at Canal District Kendall.

Formerly known as Kendall Square, Canal District Kendall in Cambridge is an innovative community with so much to do. There are green spaces, frequent outdoor live music events, and quality restaurants. But a local favorite is the large public ice rink that’s open for skating mid-December through mid-March. Bring your own skates or rent a pair. 

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Get spooked on a haunted ghost tour.

Because it is one of America’s first cities, Boston has some of the oldest cemeteries, buildings, and monuments in the nation. This makes for some captivating ghost stories; legends, haunts, mysteries, and myths are imbued in the very fabric of Beantown. If you love all things ghostly, why not take the Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour ? Your costumed guides will share spooky stories as you roll through the creepiest locations. 

Chow down on Asian cuisine in Chinatown. 

Chinatown is a great neighborhood for foodies. This area of Boston is densely packed with a delectable variety of Asian cuisines. You can’t really go wrong no matter where you stop for dinner, but a few great selections include The Q for Chinese, Gourmet Dumpling House for dumplings, Pho Pasteur for Vietnamese, and RUKA for sushi.

Discover a secret store within a store. 

I bet you’ve never been to a store like Bodega ! This shoe and streetwear boutique is hidden behind a secret entrance that looks like a convenience store from the front. Upon closer inspection, you’ll find a backdoor that leads to the real Bodega, where the latest trends in sneakers, sportswear, and caps are waiting for you. 

Browse three floors of used books at Brattle Book Shop.

Boston is full of old things, and bookstores are no exception. Brattle Book Shop on West Street is one of the oldest and largest used book shops in the nation. This store has three whole floors of literary wonders. You’ll also find an excellent selection of magazines and some rare first editions.

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Step inside a three-story globe.

Want something totally off the beaten path, and totally cool enough to land a spot in the Atlas Obscura? Located within the Mary Baker Eddy Library, the Mapparium is a three-story globe you can walk through! This map is a beautiful glowing orb that provides a unique experience for visitors, and the library that houses it is also worth a look.

Indulge in Cannoli at Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry.

Boston’s #1 Cannoli war rages on in the North End, the city’s “Little Italy.” Is it Mike’s Pastry , or Modern Pastry? Well, we don’t see why we have to choose one or the other, so let’s just eat both! Mike’s typically has longer lines but heftier portion sizes and a greater flavor variety. Modern Pastry is less mobbed and has a richer cream filling, but a smaller cannoli.

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Drink a cappuccino at Caffe Vittoria, the first Italian cafe in Boston.

Andiamo! Caffe Vittoria in the North End was established in 1929, making it Boston’s first Italian cafe. This beloved local coffee shop has four floors filled with vintage Italian decor, a coffee bar, and all the best drinks that you could find in Italy.  I adore this place!

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Shop local at Boston Public Market.

Found at Haymarket Station is Boston Public Market , an expansive year-round indoor marketplace. This community space consists of over 30 New England artisans, farmers, and shop owners selling fresh foods, crafts, and locally sourced meals. Shopping here not only allows you to experience the tastes and creations of New Englanders, but it helps uplift small businesses. 

Kayak on the Charles River.

Love that dirty water! Charles River is a local favorite for recreational adventures. This river extends for 80 miles and cuts right through the city. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards from Charles River Canoe and Kayak and either take a guided tour along the Charles River or embark on your own solo adventure. 

Witness oddities at the Warren Anatomical Museum.

If you like museums but also want to see something out-of-the-box, visit the Warren Anatomical Museum at Harvard. This anatomy and pathology museum was started in the 1800s by a Harvard anatomist to preserve specimens for student education. You will find oddities like an old plastic surgery kit, eagle skeletons, and the actual skull of Phineas Gage. 

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Visit a skinny house built out of spite .

Skinny House, or “Spite House,” is a 10-foot-wide, four-story home at 44 Hull Street. Squeezed between two brick facades, this is known as the narrowest in Boston. Legend has it that during the Civil War, it was built out of spite by a soldier to get revenge on his brother. Being left with only a small piece of their land inheritance after his brother built a massive home on it, the skinny house was built to block his brother’s views and sunlight.

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Go island hopping at Boston Harbor Islands State Park.

Boston Harbor Islands State Park is a New England coastal gem. Just one mile from the city center, this oceanic park is a collection of 34 islands and peninsulas that can be accessed by a park ferry. But the ocean isn’t the only thing you’ll see amongst these islands; you can also visit one of the historical forts, mainland parks, or the Boston Lighthouse.

Have breakfast at Trident Booksellers & Cafe.

Books are even more wonderful when paired with good coffee and a meal. Trident Booksellers & Cafe offers this match made in heaven. Part-bookstore, part-coffee shop, a visit to Trident will come complete with the latest bestsellers and classics. Not only is it a fantastic independent book store, but the breakfast is fantastic. My monte cristo sandwich and French toast latte were one of the best meals I’ve had in Boston.

Join the community fun at Harvard Square.

Want to see what locals are doing for fun in Cambridge? Harvard Square is where it all comes to life. There are events taking place in and around this large triangular plaza almost every day of the week. Listen to live music, attend author readings at Harvard Bookstore, go on a chocolate tour, or even join in on a beginner’s Tai Chi class. This is one hopping corner of Boston. 

You might also like:

• The 10 Best Things to Do in Boston for First Timers
• Things to Do for Christmas in Boston
• 10+ Best Day Trips from Boston
• The Ultimate Guide to St Patrick’s Day in Boston
• Where to Go for the Best Breakfast in Boston
• Boston Slang: 30 Wicked Cool Boston Sayings You Should Know!
• Spring in Boston: 12 Best Things to Do for Spring Fun

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The 50 best things to do in Boston

Experience the absolute best of the city this summer with our epic guide to essential eats, drinks, culture, parks and more.

August 2024: Looking for the best things to do as summer winds down in Boston? The iconic coastal city shines this time of year with outdoor concerts, must-see museum exhibits and bountiful seafood (best enjoyed on an outdoor patio ). Soak up the warm weather at SoWa , cruise around the harbor and catch Shakespeare on the Common.

Classic attractions like Fenway Park , strolling (or splashing ) on Boston Common and kayaking in the Charles River continue to draw crowds each summer, but there’s so much more to see and do in Boston. Our on-the-ground editor and writers traverse the metro area looking for the best of the best to curate this ultimate guide to things to do in Boston each month. So plan your dining itinerary—from morning fuel to memorable meals and the best desserts —and enjoy Boston at its best this summer.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Time Out Market Boston

Time Out is a global authority on where to eat right now, and we hand-pick restaurants to represent our cities at   Time Out Market . The Fenway food hall and cultural market has more than a dozen dining options, including bodacious  doughnuts , authentic French pastries, crêpes  and more brunch specials. With two bars showcasing local   craft beer   and seasonal cocktails, it’s a   one-stop shop   to try all the flavors of Boston. Plus, the   market hosts frequent events   like pop-up markets, free fitness, local beer fests, drag brunch and more.

Best things to do in Boston

1.  see the city from the water.

• Things to do

What is it? There are many ways to cruise around Boston Harbor, from expert-led boat tours to yachting experiences with dinner and drinks.

Why go? Many Bostonians agree, the city’s skyline is best viewed from Boston Harbor. Plus, have you sat in traffic lately? Some day trips are much better by boat. From Boston, you can take a ferry to Salem, Hingham or Provincetown.

Don’t miss: The classic harbor vessel Spirit of Boston recently got a top-to-bottom makeover with more modern fixtures and finishes. Check out Boston Harbor City Cruises for a variety of brunch, dinner and evening events on board this and other vessels.

2.  Go on an ice cream crawl

What is it?  Summer’s essential sweet is taken seriously in Boston, with iconic and craveworthy creameries found in every neighborhood. Find your favorite by going cone-by-cone this summer.

Why go? We have so many local institutions for frozen fare, like  J.P. Licks  with branches across the city,  Christina’s  in Inman Square,  Toscanini's  with two locations in and  Picco in the South End, where you can enjoy gourmet pizza followed by homemade ice cream.

Don’t miss: Far Out Ice Cream  at Time Out Market, which swirls fresh fruit into cool twists of soft serve.

3.  Catch an outdoor movie

• Movie theaters
• Independent

What is it?  A blockbuster summer activity is seeing a movie under the stars. Sure, you can catch the biggest releases in air-conditioned comfort at one of  Boston’s top cinemas  (even  one of the most beautiful cinemas in the world ) , but outdoor movie screenings are a fleeting seasonal pleasure.

Why go?  With screenings hosted by local movie theaters, museums, parks and more—featuring everything but recent hits to classics—it brings art to the people across the metro area.

Don’t miss: The final  Movie Monday  of the season at Time Out Market:  The   Parent Trap  on Monday, Sept. 9.

4.  Check out a new beer garden in the neighborhood

What is it? The Alianza Park Series from Roundhead Brewing and Fresh Food Generation brings diverse beer and food offerings to public parks around Boston. Two-weekend stints span locations in  Franklin Park and Brighton in September.

Why go? One of the best new breweries in Boston, Roundhead is serving up four draft beers as well as non-alcoholic options like Peruvian chicha morada. Fresh Food Generation serves a signature combination of Caribbean and modern American cuisine, plus neighborhood-specific menu items to celebrate the Alianza Park Series.

Don’t miss:  Live music and other programming during select events.

5.  Hit the beach

What is it?  A number of beautiful, breezy beaches in the city and beyond are worth checking out this summer.

Why go? Some of the best stretches of sand can be accessed by public transit. Crane Beach  offers a shuttle bus from the Ipswich commuter rail station throughout the summer, while  Singing Beach and Good Harbor Beach  are also accessible by the commuter rail. Wollaston Beach, meanwhile, is the largest public beach along Boston Harbor and is on the Red Line.

Don’t miss: If you head to one of Southie's beaches, grab lunch from the  beloved local institution  Sullivan’s Castle Island , a snack shack selling  fried seafood, lobster rolls and hot dogs.

6.  Root for the home team at Fenway Park

• Sport events
• Fenway/Kenmore

What is it?  Seeing a Red Sox game at Fenway Park has been a rite of passage for Bostonians since it opened in 1912.

Why go?  The oldest ballpark in the majors, Fenway is also one of the smallest. Tickets aren't too hard to come by this season though, and the home team has been on a tear since June. Let's go!

Don’t miss:   If you get the chance, take a seat atop the stadium ’ s most distinctive feature, the 37-foot-high left-field wall known as the Green Monster. Before or after the game, check out the great restaurants, bars and other activities in the Fenway neighborhood .

7.  Tour Fenway Park

What is it? The best part about Fenway Park is that it is a blast to visit, even if the Red Sox aren't playing. 

Why go? Public tours are offered year-round, wowing even non-baseball types by detailing the park's colorful history and intricate details.

Don't miss: Take a 60-minute guided tour of Fenway Park using Get Your Guide  to see where Jimmy Fallon and Drew Barrymore filmed scenes for their 2005 romance,  Fever Pitch .

8.  Stroll the Greenway

What is it? This verdant, mile-long ribbon of botanical parks and outdoor resting places connecting Chinatown to the North End.

Why go? The park is dotted with water fountains and splash pads and serviced by food trucks and beer gardens. It also hosts frequent events, including the Greenway Artisan Market every weekend, a summer jazz concert series on Thursdays, and a free Planty of Flavor vegan food festival on July 14.

Don’t miss: Along with the ever-popular Trillium on the Greenway, Night Shift Brewing has a Greenway beer garden this summer, too. Find it at Dewey Square near South Station.

9.  Eat the freshest local oysters

What is it?  Boston is famous for its fresh seafood, so enjoying a dozen local oysters at one of the city’s top raw bars is a must.

Why go?  Ever since the Union Oyster House opened in 1826, raw oysters have been integral to Boston’s culinary scene. Today, these briny bivalves appear on restaurant menus throughout the city. You'll find locally-sourced varieties including Wellfleet, Cotuit and Glidden Point as well as popular imports like Kumamotos. Oyster happy hours are a great way to sample these goodies at a lower price.

Don’t miss:  Island Creek Oysters' farm is a destination-worthy day trip in Duxbury, about an hour south of Boston. The outdoor raw bar boasts views of the harbor where these delicious delicacies grow and thrive. 

10.  Go rollerskating in Cambridge

What is it? A developing area of Kendall Square is a pop-up roller rink all summer long. Rollerama is located at “Kendall Common,” on the corner of Third and Broadway near Kendall/MIT on the Red Line. 

Why go? Skating includes free skate rentals, and there will be food and drinks for purchase open later in July. 

Don’t miss: The large mural of the roller rink painted by Massiel Grullón .

11.  Visit a new restaurant patio

What is it? New outdoor dining options, new menus and new views abound in Boston this season.

Why go? While the tried and true best patios in Boston , rooftop spots and outdoor bars are always a good bet on sunny days and pleasant nights, there are several new-ish spots with outdoor dining that should be on your radar. 

Don’t miss: Black Cat @ Vee Vee , a collab between chef Valentine Howell, a 2023 James Beard award-nominee and Jamaica Plain neighborhood favorite, Vee Vee. While still maintaining its cozy vibe, the restaurant and patio has a totally new menu with Afro/Latin Caribbean flair—think: rotating tacos, shrimp tostada, elotes, pineapple buñuelo and more. 

12.  Sunbathe (or catch the sunset) on the Esplanade

• The Esplanade

What is it? A public park running parallel to the Charles River, this beautiful greenspace and trail network is a perfect place to catch some rays.

Why go? With a refreshing breeze continuously coming off the water, the Esplanade attracts runners, cyclists or anyone looking to take a stroll. If you’re lucky, you can snag one of the highly coveted benches that are peppered throughout this pedestrian paradise. Otherwise, you can seek shade under one of its many trees and haul out some packed picnic supplies.

Don’t miss: The Boston Public Dock, where people stretch out on towels and try to get a tan.

13.  Stock up on fresh ingredients in the Seaport

What is it? The Boston Fish Pier hosts a weekly farmers market this summer for the first time in its 110-year history.

Why go? The Saturday market features local businesses like Rocky Neck Fish, Stillman’s Farm produce, McGuire’s Mushrooms, Copicut Farms meats and more local vendors.

Don’t miss: The most  bountiful season in Boston.

14.  Wander around Boston Common and the Public Garden

What is it? America’s oldest public park and first botanical garden (established 1634 and 1837, respectively). The dual jewels of the Emerald Necklace perfectly reflect the vision of the venerated landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. 

Why go? Splash around the Frog Pond , play softball or tennis, or simply lounge with a book on the 50-acre Boston Common. Across Charles Street, the Public Garden boasts pathways for promenading, formal flower beds and a petite lagoon fringed with weeping willows. 

Don’t miss: The seasonally operated Swan Boats (introduced in 1877), which kids adore.

15.  Watch out for whales

What is it?  Whale watching isn’t just for school field trips. Hop on one of the boats departing Boston Harbor daily and rediscover how awesome it actually is to get that close to one of the largest mammals on Earth.

Why go?  The waters surrounding Boston offer some of the best whale watching opportunities in the U.S. Bring a sweater, park yourself at the hull of the boat for the day and keep your eyes on the water. 

Don’t miss:  D on ’t make the rookie mistake of shunning sun protection while on the water, else you ’ ll resemble one of our famous New England lobsters.

16.  Immerse yourself at WNDR

What is it?  A new art exhibition hall in Downtown Crossing invites you to interact with its art.

Why go?  Instead of idly observing, this museum actually encourages  visitors  to engage with multi-sensory installations by cutting edge artists.

Don't miss: One of the best 10 immersive experiences in the U.S.

17.  Kayak on the Charles River

What is it?  The Charles River, which runs from Boston Harbor out towards Hopkinton.

Why go?  Our city loves that dirty water, especially now that isn't quite as dirty anymore. On warm days, the Charles is flowing with activity, with everyone from the Harvard Crew Team to casual kayakers putting their watercrafts into the river. 

Don’t miss:  If you want a piece of the aquatic action and don’t own a boat, rentals are available from organizations like  Charles River Canoe & Kayak  and  Community Boating Boston . 

18.  Take a hike

What is it? Serious hikers may travel to the White Mountains or the Appalachian Trail, but when you just need a little bit of nature, there are plenty of quality hikes near Boston.

Why go?  W hether it’s rambling through scenic wooded preserves or exploring waterfront trails, these Boston hikes are perfect for walking off the chaos of downtown.

Don't miss:   Just a few minutes outside of Boston proper is the 7,000-acre Blue Hills Reservation with 125 miles of pristine hiking trails. Climb to the top of Great Blue Hill and enjoy an unmatched view of the Hub's skyline.

19.  Sample the city’s freshest lobster rolls

What is it? Hot or cold on a humble toasted bun or more modern and upscale like Eventide Fenway ’s brown-butter lobster roll on a soft Chinese-style bun, decadent lobster can be found on menus across town any time of the year.

Why go?  Nothing’s better than a buttery lobster roll in the summertime. 

Don’t miss: For a low-key, no-frills lobster roll experience, head to Belle Isle Seafood just outside the city in quiet Winthrop. 

20.  Visit the penguins at the New England Aquarium

• Attractions
• Zoo and aquariums

What is it?  New England’s largest aquarium and one of Boston’s most popular attractions.

Why go?  More than 80 African, rockhopper and little blue penguins live in the New England Aquarium’s first-floor display. Watch them go wild during feeding time in front of the Giant Ocean Tank, a massive coral reef exhibit that's home to a myriad of other marine creatures, including sharks and loggerhead sea turtles. The building is designed in such a way that the penguins can be seen from multiple vantage points. 

Don’t miss:   Be sure to say hi to the harbor seals in their enclosure outside, which is free and open to the public.

21.  Go candlepin bowling

• price 2 of 4

What is it?  Candlepin bowling is uniquely New England—the pins are tall and much thinner than those of standard 10-pin, and balls are closer to softball-sized. A local favorite for playing this regional game is the lovingly maintained Sacco’s Bowl Haven, which dates back to 1939 and now sits inside a pizza restaurant in Somerville.

Why go?  This nowling alley has the added perk amazing thin-crust pizza and a great selection of local craft beer.

Don’t miss:  Reservations are accepted Monday-Thursday, or on weekends for groups of eight or more only. Call ahead or expect to wait.

22.  Try a Thai-inspired pub

What is it?  Merai  just opened in Brookline from the team behind Boston Thai food favorites, Mahaniyom.

Why go? The cozy pub showcases a fusion of Thai flavors and global techniques, set in an unpretentious neighborhood cocktail bar.

Don't miss: The housemade "hot dog," a pork sausage in a butty bun with the flavors of the spicy-basil stir-fry known as krapow.

23.  Picnic in a park

What is it?  What better way to take advantage of the warmer weather than to head outdoors for a city picnic?

Why go? You don't need a reservation—just grab a blanket, pack up your meal (and maybe a sneaky bottle of wine) and find your way to one of the most peaceful picnic spots in Boston.

Don't miss:  A hidden gem in Dorchester, Pope John Paul II Park Reservation (aka Pope Park) is a 66-acre Massachusetts state park bordering the Neponset River with easy walking trails, picnic tables and water views.

24.  Retrace historic steps along the Freedom Trail

What is it?  A stroll along the Freedom Trail is a great way to take in local history and culture.

Why go?  The Freedom Trail isn’t the only historical walking tour in town, it's the most famous for a reason. The self-guided, 2.5-mile tour provides a sightseeing starting point for newcomers, and locals always spot something new to appreciate along the way.

Don’t miss:  After seeing Paul Revere's House, take a break and refuel with a slice of pizza from Galleria Umberto.

25.  Laugh it up at the best Boston comedy clubs

What is it? There are many opportunities to laugh your socks off this summer at one of Boston's veteran comedy clubs and other venues. The Improv Asylum in the North End has a loyal following, especially when it comes to the more risque late-night shows.

Why go? Some of America’s most popular contemporary comedians like Conan O’Brien and Bill Burr honed their craft in Greater Boston.

Don't miss: I Mostly Blame Myself , a NYC-based improv comedy troupe, has its first-ever show in Boston on July 13 at the Lyric Stage.

26.  Go big at Encore Boston Harbor

What is it?  A little slice of Las Vegas in New England, Encore Boston Harbor is a mega-casino resort just outside the city in Everett.

Why go? The 210,000-square-foot complex—which cost nearly $3 billion to build—includes 15 high-end dining and lounge venues, an ultra-premium spa and more than 600 guests rooms for the ultimate staycation. 

Don't miss: The four-season, six-acre Harborwalk features pedestrian and bike paths, a picnic park, a gazebo, viewing decks, waterfront dining and lush green space with magnificent floral displays.

27.  Watch the leaves turn at the Arnold Arboretum

What is it?  A National Historic Landmark and one of the best preserved landscapes designed by the famous Frederick Law Olmsted. 

Why go?  With thousands of trees, shrubs and woody vines, this Jamaica Plain gem is recognized as one of the most comprehensive and well-documented botanical gardens worldwide. 

Don’t miss:  Taking a stroll on a nice day to see bursts of green, blooming flowers and plenty of chirping birds.

28.  Get wild at the Franklin Park Zoo

What is it?  The city ’ s quaint zoo is a kid-friendly local favorite.

Why go?  As fascinating as animals seem on the TV screen, they’re far more impressive in real life. The zoo—whose mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain endangered species—is home to zebras, gorillas, giraffes and a host of other exotic animals that you definitely wouldn’t normally see in the wilds of New England. 

Don’t miss:  Franklin Park Zoo recently welcomed a baby Hartmann’s mountain zebra, the first of this zebra species  to be born in Boston ; as well as a new yellow-billed stork chick and a wattled crane chick.

29.  Discover the deCordova Museum & Sculpture Park

• Art and design

What is it?  The former estate of Massachusetts merchant Julian de Cordova  hosts the region ’ s premier outdoor sculpture park.

Why go?  West of the city in the leafy suburb of Lincoln, the 35-acre deCordova Museum & Sculpture Park attracts art lovers year-round. Even during the dog days of summer, it's the perfect place to get some fresh air while checking out world-class art. The ever-changing indoor exhibits provide shelter from the sometimes-fickle elements.

Don’t miss:  Yoga sessions, moonlight sculpture tours, live music and more special outdoor events  this summer.

30.  Learn something new at the Boston Public Library

• Libraries, archives and foundations

What is it?  The BPL contains approximately 19 million volumes and electronic resources, making it the second-largest public library in the U.S. —coming right  behind the Library of Congress.

Why go?  At nearly 1 million square feet, the main branch in Copley Square impresses in a way that few libraries can. The original structure, designed by Charles McKim and completed in 1895, now serves as the research library, while an extension (opened in 1972) functions as the general library. Talks, performances and tours delight culture vultures from near and far.

Don’t miss:   At the center of the library is a cloistered courtyard, one of the city ’ s most beautiful, tranquil places to read a book.

Want to see more in the area? Book a tour . 

31.  Set sail on Jamaica Pond

What is it?  Jamaica Pond, part of the Emerald Necklace of parks, is a picturesque, glacial kettle hole and the perfect place for an afternoon sail or stroll.

Why go? Courageous Sailing  offers sailing instruction and a new fleet of kayaks and standup paddleboards out of the  Jamaica Pond Boathouse. 

Don't miss:  The Summer Sundays in the Park series features free, family-friendly evening concerts and movies.

32.  Splurge on Newbury Street

What is it? One of the coolest streets in the world , Boston’s premier retail strip is perfect for both shopping and people-watching.

Why go?  Between Arlington Street and Massachusetts Avenue, there are eight blocks of beautiful brick townhouses housing ultra-luxe designers, chic boutiques and international chains. With a never-ending assortment of galleries, salons, cafés, bars and eateries to explore, you can easily spend an entire afternoon browsing, relaxing and indulging here.

Don’t miss: Le Mari , a new, chef-owned restaurant with a patio opening this summer on Newbury Street.

Need some guidance? Book a tour . 

33.  Go back in time at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

• Mission Hill

What is it?  Modeled on a Venetian palace and mostly untouched from the eccentric collector's time in Boston, the former home of American art collector Isabella Stewart Gardner is a sightseeing gem.

Why go?  The museum's most famous treasures remain exactly where Gardner had arranged them, including the empty frames that once held priceless works of art stolen during the infamous 1990 theft. The museum also boasts a flower-filled courtyard that blooms all year long.

Don’t miss:   Enjoy free admission on your birthday; a nyone with the first name Isabella gets in for free as well.

34.  Have a meal with a side of waterfront views

What is it?  Boston is blessed with plenty of waterfront restaurants to get your fix of sun, sea, salty air and snacks.

Why go? Take advantage of the warm weather while it lasts and savor the sunshine at a fabulous restaurant with a view.

Don't miss: Boston Sail Loft is a low-key favorite that also serves one of  the  best clam chowders  in town.

35.  Discover a lost world at the Mapparium

What is it?  Located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library, the Mapparium is essentially a three-story model of the globe built to scale. 

Why go?  This colorful sphere runs 30 feet in diameter and can be crossed by means of a glass bridge bisecting its interior. Inside, sound bounces off the room ’ s rounded walls, amplifying it ten-fold, so keep in mind that there are no secrets in the sphere —no matter how softly you may whisper.

Don’t miss:  The 608 stained-glass panels recreate the world as it was in the mid-1930s, when the project was completed. So keep keen eyes on those outdated borders.

Save money on tickets with a Go Boston Pass

36.  Have a drink outside

What is it? Head to an outdoor bar in Boston where you can enjoy sun and fun.

Why go? From cheery terraces to waterfront views, these outdoor bars in Boston offer al fresco drinks and a good dose of fresh air. 

Don't miss: Some spots like SRV  offer cozy outdoor space to enjoy both excellent drinks and delicious food.

37.  Tour a historic building

What is it?  Boston is blessed with so many historic buidlings open to the public, such as the Old State House and Faneuil Hall. 

Why go?  Learn more about the city's — and the country's — rich history, in some cases for free.

Don’t miss:   Walking the entire  Freedom Trail , so you can enjoy the outdoors while seeing national landmarks.

38.  Check out a food truck

What is it?  Meals on wheels park themselves near the city's busiest picnic spots, like Copley Square, Government Center or the Rose Kennedy Greenway. 

Why go?  From gourmet grilled cheeses to ice cream cookie sandwiches, Boston's fleet of wheeled restaurants have a range of fast, fun bites for on-the-go eating.

Don't miss:  If you have your heart set on food from a specific vehicle, check social media to see if the company has shared its daily route.

39.  Please everybody at Boston's best food halls

What is it? The food hall trend is exploding in Boston, with a wealth of food halls popping up around the city.

Why go? Spanning numerous cuisines all in one spot, food halls are a great  choice when you’re dining with a group—there’s something for everyone. They make for a great anytime meeting spot; just show up and see what kind of mood you’re in.

Don't Miss: Eataly is a haven for Italian food enthusiasts. The Boston Public Market has fresh produce in addition to prepared foods. And Time Out Market Boston showcases the best of the city under one roof.

40.  Get an inside view of artist studios at SoWa

What is it?  The city ’ s premier artistic hub, SoWa Artists Guild at 450 Harrison Ave. is a veritable hive of creative activity. 

Why go?  Many artists open their doors a few times a month for open studio events, where they greet South End residents and visitors. First Fridays (5-9pm) is the flagship event, where more than 200 artists, galleries, shops and showrooms welcome the public for an evening of art, wine, cheese and mingling each month.

Don’t miss:  On Sundays, get your fill of art as well as locally grown produce and artisan-made goods at the SoWa Open Market .

41.  Explore the JFK Library

What is it?   Located behind UMass Boston ’s Dorchester campus, the JFK Presidential Library and Museum occupies a dramatic concrete-and-glass monolith by architect I.M. Pei.

Why go?  The  multimedia journey through the former president’s life continues to fascinate, as do temporary exhibits and special events that focus on politics, culture and current events.  On the ground floor, the stunning atrium commands panoramic views of the sea and the city. Downstairs, the museum contains an extensive display of memorabilia, as well as a series of temporary shows. 

Don’t miss:  Wednesday evenings from 5-8pm through August 14, the museum is open free of charge with special themes and make-and-take opportunities.

42.  Take a foodie crawl through Chinatown

What is it?  As one of Boston ’ s most densely-packed and unique neighborhoods, Chinatown thrills gourmands with its array of authentic eateries. 

Why go?  Many of  the city ’ s best Chinese restaurants  can be found in Chinatown. Rather than sticking to one spot and eating a single big meal, walk around the area and slowly snack along the way. Some ideas: Stamp your culinary passport at Taiwan Cafe , where you can sample a selection of dumplings and more. At Peach Farm , you can select seafood straight from the tanks.

Don’t miss:  Exotic hand-pulled noodles at Gene’s Chinese Flatbread Cafe .

Want to see more of the area? Book a walking tour .  

43.  Dance the night away at a hot club

What is it?  Boston’s best clubs might not compare to the nightlife in Miami or Vegas, but there are plenty of popular options for late-night fun.

Why go?  With hot spots such as Royale , Venu  and Icon , the Theatre District hosts ’ s biggest concentration of nightclubs. Newcomers like The Grand , Big Night Live  and Mystique offer more elevated late-night options similar to those you'd find in other cities. A far cry from the Top 40 club-banging hotspots on the other side of the river, Central Square has an eclectic assortment of places to shake it like there's no tomorrow. Popular options include house DJ nights at  Middlesex Lounge  and eclectic throwback parties at Phoenix Landing .

Don’t miss:  If toe-tapping along to live jazz is more your speed, check out Grace by Nia  for soul food and some smooth music. 

44.  Study at the Harvard Art Museums

What is it?  Harvard’s history and status has allowed it to cultivate one of the most impressive university art collections. 

Why go?  Visitors are able to peruse highlights from the Ivy League institution's collection of roughly 250,000 pieces — from Neolithic sculptures to 21st-century conceptual installations—under one Renzo Piano-designed glass roof. 

Don’t miss:  Harvard ’ s   Museum of Natural History , which houses the famous Ware Collection of Blaschka Glass Models of Plants.

Want to see more of Harvard? Book a tour . 

45.  Drink a proper pint at an authentic Irish pub

What is it?  Boston ’s collection of  cozy, welcoming Irish pubs like  The Burren  and The Druid all but guarantee a lively night of  craic . 

Why go?  In a city chock full of proud Irish expats and Irish-Americans, it’s little wonder why Boston is brimming with an excess of quality pubs. To get the full experience, head in on a spirited trivia night, or during a live performance of authentic Irish music.

Don ’t miss:  For a centrally-located option with nightly live tunes, look no further than the Black Rose .

46.  Go hard on a Southie Sunday

• South Boston

What is it? A neighborhood tradition, where local yuppies finish the weekend strong with long, boozy brunches. 

Why go? In more recent years, South Boston has become known for its high concentration of young professionals who are always down for a good time. Sundays are no exception, and nearby restaurants cater to the crowds with creative brunch specials, buckets of bubbles and lots of beer. Kick off your Sunday Funday festivities at popular brunch spots like Lincoln, The Broadway and Loco. True troopers continue their day drinking at bars like Stats and Lucky’s Lounge. 

Don’t miss: Hydrating, especially if you’re over the age of 25 and have work on Monday morning. 

47.  Eat at one of these healthy spots

Boston has plenty of opportunities for you to indulge, but with the holidays approaching it may be wise to check out a few healthy spots along the way as well. These are the best and tastiest places for a light meal. 

48.  Try the best clam chowder in Boston

What is it?  A time-honored, New England culinary tradition.

Why go?  There are few things that scream "spring in Boston" more than grabbing a belly-warming bowl of the good stuff after a breezy day outside.

Don’t miss: Chowderfest , an annual event that occurs each summer when you can sample some of the city's best chowders.

49.  Save some cash and check out the city's free activities

What is it? Not all of the best things in life come for free. But gratis enjoyments can be found all around Boston, a city known for its high cost of living.

Why go? A simple stroll throughout Boston makes for a pretty great cheap date, owing to the city’s ample history, architecture, museums, green spaces and exciting performances.

Don't miss: The city's museums are world-class, even more attractive on their various free days.

50.  Catch a game or a show at the TD Garden

• Event spaces

What is it?  Besides serving as the home for the NBA’s Celtics and NHL’s Bruins, the city’s premier arena hosts big-name concerts and events.

Why go?  While it’s not the original Boston Garden (a no-frills venue that hosted some of the most important cultural events in Boston history), the spirit of Boston sports runs deep throughout the venue. An assortment of fans—from intense locals whose season tickets go back decades to new-school supporters sporting the latest in merch and gear—scream and shout while supporting the local teams.

Don’t miss:  Fuel up before a big game with a killer Italian meal in the neighboring North End .

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11 top experiences in Boston in 2024

Mar 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Make the most of beautiful Boston with these 11 top experiences © Anthony Tulliani/Lonely Planet

As one of the oldest cities founded in the USA and considered by many to be the cradle of the American Revolution, Boston is a gift to history buffs.

But there's more to this northeastern metropolis than American history. Renowned sports teams that contend for national titles, museums and galleries around every corner, diverse and welcoming communities, breathtaking natural beauty and a thriving dining scene – Boston has a lot to offer, and it can be difficult to know where to begin.

The key is not trying to pack everything into one trip – that's the fun of returning! Savor Boston and let these 11 incredible experiences create lifelong memories.

1. Walk the Freedom Trail 

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walk through the city that leads past 16 colonial and revolutionary historical sites, and it's one of the city's most popular visitor attractions. Stops include the Boston Common (the city's main green space), the golden-domed Massachusetts State House , Faneuil Hall , Paul Revere House , the warship USS Constitution and Bunker Hill Monument . 

There are group tours that lead you along the Freedom Trail, with guides in 18th-century costumes. You can also do it yourself – just download a map from the Freedom Trail website and follow the bricks on the sidewalk.

A self-guided tour allows you to go at your own pace, giving you the flexibility to stop at Faneuil Hall to munch through a few of the local food stalls, or to book a supplementary tour aboard the USS Constitution .

Planning tip:  Spread the trail out over several days to make the most out of each of the Boston neighborhoods it winds through. 

2. Surround yourself with culture at Boston's museums

There's a museum for just about every taste in Boston. If fine arts is your jam, there are paintings, sculptures and tapestries at the Isabella Stewart Gardener , while the sprawling MFA  features more than 450,000 works of art. For more targeted collections, there's the Institute of Contemporary Art , the Museum of Science , the Boston Children's Museum and the ever-popular fish-filled  New England Aquarium .

3. Explore Boston's distinct neighborhoods 

Each of Boston's various neighborhoods has its own personality and unique allure. There are technically 23 designated neighborhoods, but a few of the most noteworthy include the South End, known for its brownstones and multitude of restaurants; Back Bay, where the long Commonwealth Avenue Mall is a year-round highlight of trees, park benches and statues; the newly developed Seaport where highrises are juxtaposed against the harborfront walk; and the North End, otherwise known as "Little Italy."

There's also South Boston, which used to be known for its Irish-American culture but is now a young professional's playground with lots of bars and restaurants; not to mention Fenway-Kenmore, Chinatown, the downtown financial and theater district, and charming Beacon Hill.

Planning tip: Dedicate a few mealtimes to the North End – there's simply too much to eat and drink here for one visit. Hanover Street can be touristy, but being part of the crowd is part of the experience to fully enjoy the authentic pizzerias, salumerias , coffeehouses and pastry shops (try the cannoli at both Mike's Pastry and Modern's to weigh in on the longstanding local debate of who makes them better).

4. Drink a craft beer (or two)

In 1984, Samuel Adams revived the craft beer scene when it released its Boston Lager – "the full-flavored beer they deserved," says the brand. Today, the local brewery still pours its iconic beer at two taprooms in the city, while also offering rotating seasonal brews and tasting flights. Use Samuel Adams as a starting point in a craft beer tour, then try some of the other local craft brands that have followed, like Night Shift, Trillium, Harpoon, Jack's Abby and Cisco. 

Local tip: If you're visiting in the late spring, summer or early fall, look for popup beer gardens from the aforementioned brands that take advantage of Boston's riverside, public gardens and harborfront. The scenery complements the signature and seasonal beers – sipping a fruity roast under the summer sun or enjoying an Oktoberfest among crunchy autumn leaves.

5. Catch a game at Boston's famed stadiums and parks

Boston is a sports city, and whether or not you're a sports fan, the city's commitment to its home teams is contagious. Fenway is a great place to start; opened in 1912, it's the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. There's also TD Garden , home to the Celtics, Bruins and mainstream concerts. Gillette Stadium is about 27 miles away, but worth the trip for a Sunday tailgate before watching the Patriots play. 

Local tip: If you missed out on tickets, don't sweat it! Pull up a bar seat at one of the many sports bars throughout the city – Bleacher Bar , Cask'  n Flagon , Stats Bar & Grille , The Greatest Bar , Banners Kitchen and Tap or The Sporting Club will all provide a taste of the dedication to local sports on game day.

6. Indulge in New England's culinary traditions

Positioned at the heart of New England , Boston has premier access to some of the best seafood in the nation. Whether you're at a casual waterside venue like James Hook & Co. or The Barking Crab , or settling into a settee at a more formal restaurant like Row 34 or B&G Oysters , pescatarians will be in heaven. The most popular orders include oysters on the half shell, New England clam chowder, lobster rolls (both buttered and with mayonnaise) and steamed clams. 

7. But also seek out regional rising stars of global cuisine

Though seafood is traditional in Boston, we'd be remiss not to mention some exciting spots for global eats. Xenia Greek Hospitality has Krasi and Bar Vlaha , while Yunnan Kitchen serves delicious Dian cuisine from southwest China. Borrachito Taqueria brings tacos to Boston via the original NYC outpost for Mexican eats.

8. Shop and gallery hop along Newbury Street

Multi-level brownstones line Newbury Street, Boston's charming one-mile stretch of boutique shops, art galleries, established restaurants and cozy cafes. Of Newbury's eight blocks, the first (between Arlington and Berkeley) is unofficially dedicated to high-end fashion, hosting designers such as Tiffany's, Chanel, Loro Piana and Cartier.

The sidewalks get crowded on the weekends, especially in summer – on summer Sundays, the street is closed to vehicular traffic for a pedestrianized-only experience. In winter, storefronts sparkle with holiday displays and in spring, restaurants open their patios, which overflow with patrons sipping spritzers through summer and well into autumn, of which the season is extended by standing heaters and warm drinks.

Local tip: Some of the best shops and bars are not at street level, so look up to find places like Bar á vin 1855 , a wine bar above popular French restaurant  La Voile , and also down to restaurants like Puro Ceviche Bar .

9. Walk or cycle along the Esplanade 

This three-mile path of green along the Charles River stretches from the Museum of Science to the Boston University Bridge. It's a popular exercise route for locals but also a leisurely way for visitors to enjoy Boston's natural beauty. Rent a bike and cycle your way along, or opt for a stroll.

10. Get out on the water 

Whether you're interested in a sailing lesson on the Charles River or entrusting a local captain to do the work on a boat trip in the Harbor, there are plenty of opportunities to experience Boston by water. In addition to sailing lessons, there are outfitters along the Charles for kayaking, canoeing, rowing and stand-up paddleboarding. On the harbor, operators offer everything from hour-long tours, boats for day charter and leisurely sunset cruises. There are also Duck Boat Tours that traverse both land and water.

Planning tip: If you're booking a harbor cruise at sunset, reserve a table at one of the Seaport's popular restaurants to beat the crowds coming off your boat. Favorites include  Woods Hill Pier 4 , Nautilus , LoLa 42 and Strega . 

11. Tack on a day trip to one of Boston's coastal escapes

If you're visiting during the summer and can add on some extra time to your vacation, consider a day trip to one of Boston's coastal towns. Take a half-day trip to the North Shore to explore the quaint port towns of Gloucester and Newburyport, or venture down to the South Shore to beach towns like Duxbury and Cohasset.

For a longer excursion, drive to Cape Cod ("the Cape," as locals refer to it). Chatham, Dennis and Orleans are all within a two-hour drive and have one-street towns with bakeries and boutiques to spend the morning at before an afternoon lazing on the sands of the many nearby beaches.

Further afield is Provincetown, which can be a long drive, but there's also a fast ferry that runs throughout the summer. It can pick you up from Long Wharf in the morning and whisk you to Ptown in 45 minutes for a day of eating and perusing its artsy streets. 

Planning tip: If you opt for the mid-Cape on a summer weekend, leave extra time for traffic as back-up times on Friday evenings, Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons can teeter on doubling your drive time. Opt for a weekday if possible.

This article was first published May 27, 2021 and updated Mar 2, 2024.

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23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Perhaps no other city in America holds as much history of the colonial and Revolutionary War era as Boston. It's not surprising then that its main sites have become a pilgrimage trail for Americans and for others who hope to get a sense of that history.

But more than that, the Freedom Trail is a good introduction to today's city, connecting or passing close to some of its best loved tourist attractions. Boston is easy to navigate on foot, as its major sights are relatively close, and America's first subway system, the T, connects its important neighborhoods.

Across the Charles River, a watery summer recreation area whose Boston shore is reserved as the Esplanade park, is Cambridge. Although a separate and independent city, for tourist purposes, Cambridge is part of Boston and connected by the same transit system.

Here, you'll find two of America's most prestigious and important universities, Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) . These and the many other universities and colleges in the area help keep Boston a youthful and vibrant place to be, with a lively cultural scene. With all the music, theater, and entertainment options, plus its abundance of restaurants, you'll never be at a loss for things to do in Boston at night.

Maybe because I've lived there and know its sometimes puzzling web of downtown streets, I find Boston a thoroughly comfortable city to visit; despite its tall buildings, its compact neighborhoods make it seem more like a cluster of small towns. Join me in a tour of my favorite city, and discover the best things to do, with this handy guide to the top attractions in Boston.

Walk the Freedom Trail

See a game or take a tour of fenway park, faneuil hall, boston common and public garden: ride the swan boats, museum of fine arts boston, isabella stewart gardner museum, uss constitution and bunker hill (boston national historic park), museum of science, harvard square and harvard art museums, old north church and boston's north end, boston tea party ships & museum, new england aquarium, harvard museums and the glass flowers, newbury street & back bay, boston public library and copley square, boston harbor and whale watching cruises, john f. kennedy presidential library and museum, beacon hill and the black heritage trail, boston harborwalk and christopher columbus waterfront park, rose fitzgerald kennedy greenway, boston pops and boston symphony orchestra, arnold arboretum, massachusetts institute of technology, best time to visit boston, ma.

The three-mile Freedom Trail leads you past – and into – 16 of the city's principal historic monuments and sites. It's easy to follow, by the line of red bricks in the sidewalk and by footprints at street crossings. Begin by picking up brochures on the attractions at the Visitor Center in the Boston Common before heading to the State House .

The trail will take you to Old Granary Burying Ground (where Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock are buried), King's Chapel Burying Ground (Boston's oldest cemetery with the graves of Governor John Winthrop and two Mayflower passengers), Old South Meeting House (where the ringing speeches of patriots spawned the Boston Tea Party), and the Old State House . This is Boston's oldest public building and the site of the Boston Massacre .

The Freedom Trail continues through Boston's North End, past the Paul Revere House and Old North Church , and ends across the bridge in Charlestown with the 54-gun frigate USS Constitution and the 220-foot granite Bunker Hill Monument. With all these attractions and places to see, it's no wonder the Freedom Trail is one of the best walking trails around Boston .

Known as "America's Most Beloved Ballpark," Fenway Park is one of the most fabled sports complexes in the country, and even if, like me, you're not a sports fan, a tour of it is both fun and interesting. And sitting inside, surrounded by cheering fans and singing "Sweet Caroline" is a quintessential Boston experience.

The home of the Boston Red Sox looks much the same as it did when it opened on April 20, 1912. One of its most recognizable features is the Green Monster , the 37-foot green wall in left field, and the park still maintains some of the remnants of "old time" baseball such as the hand-operated scoreboard.

Fenway Park also has the lowest seating capacity in the Major Leagues holding only 33,871 spectators (a fact that makes tickets exceedingly scarce).

Author's Tip: If you manage to get tickets, don't even think about driving to a game. Park outside the center and take any MBTA Green Line train (except one labeled Heath St.) to Kenmore Square and follow the crowd on the short walk to the stadium.

Address: 4 Yawkey Way, Boston, Massachusetts

Known as the "cradle of liberty," Faneuil Hall was built in 1740-42 by Huguenot merchant Peter Faneuil as a market hall and presented to the city on condition that it should always be open to the public.

The ground floor is still occupied by market stalls; on the upper floor is a council chamber, which in the 18th and 19th centuries was the meeting place of revolutionaries and later, of abolitionists. On its fourth floor is the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Museum , with weaponry, uniforms, and paintings of significant battles.

The adjoining Faneuil Hall Marketplace includes three long halls (Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market), dating from the early 19th century, now occupied by a lively assortment of shops, restaurants, and exhibitions.

In good weather, I love the block-party atmosphere here, with street performers and buskers putting on shows in the square around the market, and in any weather I never tire of browsing through the shops selling jewelry, clothing, gifts, and souvenirs. You can never have too many Red Sox caps, or you can get a coffee mug inscribed with a Boston/English dictionary. It might come in wicked handy talking with locals.

The food stalls in Quincy Market are some of the most popular places to eat lunch in Boston. My favorites are Fisherman's Net and the family-run Boston Chowdah for seafood, and West End Srollers for panini sandwiches I can walk around with as I browse. Ethnicities from Hispanic to Asian Fusion are represented, and Boston Halal is opening in 2023.

Address: Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, Massachusetts

In the heart of the city is Boston Common, America's oldest park and the start of the Freedom Trail . In this large green space, which is much used by locals year-round, are various monuments and the Central Burying Ground of 1756.

You can rent skates to use on the Frog Pond from November through mid-March, enjoy the spring blossoms and fall foliage colors reflecting in its surface, and in summer, watch youngsters splash about in the wading pool.

Adjoining it on the west side of Charles Street, is the 24-acre Public Garden, America's oldest botanical garden. Along with the Victorian-style monuments and statues, including an equestrian statue of George Washington, are the popular modern bronzes of a family of ducks immortalized in Robert McCloskey's children's book Make Way for the Ducklings .

Joining the ducklings to give the Public Garden its whimsical air is one of Boston's most iconic experiences for all ages: riding around the lake in the garden's center on the famous Swan Boats , first launched in the 1870s.

Generations of children have ridden these and returned with their own children and grandchildren (I know this because I'm in one of those families). If you're in Boston with kids, take them for a ride here, and start your own multi-generational tradition.

Address: Public Garden, Boston, Massachusetts

One of the leading art museums in the country, the Boston Museum of Fine Arts excels in its collections of Impressionist paintings, ancient Egyptian treasures, Asian and Persian fine arts, and works from ancient Greece and the Middle East.

Its crowning achievement is the construction of an entire American Wing to house, integrated in chronological order, outstanding collections of American paintings, furniture, decorative arts, folk art, silver, glassware, and design dating from pre-Columbian arts to the Art Deco and Modernist eras. To see all these works of art shown in context with other creative accomplishments of their time is an exciting journey through the world of American creativity, one I never tire of taking.

Highlights elsewhere include a 12th-century lacquered-wood sculpture of a Buddhist Bodhisattva and Korean painted screens, the ivory and gold statue of the Minoan Snake Goddess from 1500 BC, and a statue of the Egyptian pharaoh Mycerinus and his queen from 2548-2530 BC.

For me, in addition to the American Wing, the museum's highlight is the group of 35 paintings by Claude Monet , one of the largest collections outside of France. These are exhibited in good company, alongside works of Gaugin, Renoir, and Degas.

To see and appreciate all the museum's galleries and collections could take a full day, but the mind can only absorb as much as the feet can endure. So unless you are a devoted art enthusiast, plan from two hours to half a day here and concentrate on those sections that interest you most.

The museum is about a 1½-mile walk from Copley Square and other neighborhoods for sightseeing; an easier way to get there is on the MBTA Green Line. Take a car marked Heath St. from Copley or Park St. stations.

Address: 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts

Set in a building its eccentric creator modeled after a 15th-century Venetian palace, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum displays its collections in rooms surrounding a four-story central courtyard filled with flowering plants and fountains.

The priceless 2,500-piece collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, tapestries, decorative arts, books, and manuscripts reflect the personal tastes and considerable expertise of Mrs. Gardner herself, whose own flamboyance further adds to the charm of the museum.

Behind the palazzo, a 70,000-square-foot glass-clad building designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano creates new viewpoints for the original palazzo and stunning spaces for music and visual arts, allowing the museum to showcase exceptional contemporary works and artists. Rather than clash or compete with the original building, Piano's wing simply provides a new glass through which to view Mrs. Gardner's palazzo.

From almost anywhere in the new building are uninterrupted prospects of the palace and gardens through transparent walls. After you tour the museum, stroll through the Fens , a long green space, where you'll find a beautiful rose garden in bloom from June through October.

Author's Tip: The Gardner is only a few steps from the Museum of Fine Arts, making it tempting to combine them in one day. But unless art is your passion, it's best to see them on different days, so you can appreciate each. Visiting the Gardner is to immerse yourself not just in art, but in the 15th- and 16th-century artistic world of Renaissance Italy.

Address: 280 The Fenway, Boston, Massachusetts

Nicknamed Old Ironsides , USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy, and is still commanded and crewed by Navy personnel. The ship is open to visitors, who can go below desks and hear about the ship's construction and action at sea.

Across the pier, the USS Constitution Museum provides historical context through interactive exhibits that illustrate life aboard a naval vessel two centuries ago. Another ship you can tour here is the Cassin Young , a World War II destroyer.

Charlestown Navy Yard is part of the Boston National Historical Park, and it's a short walk to the Bunker Hill Monument and Museum, also in the park. The 221-foot-tall granite monument marks the hilltop site of the earthen fort built by New England soldiers prior to the Battle of Bunker Hill, the first pitched battle of the American Revolution.

Address: Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, Massachusetts

Exhibits in the extensive Museum of Science encourage learning through hands-on exploration of science and technology, but the museum is not just for children. Physics, biology, chemistry, ecology, zoology, astronomy, computers, and more are explored in more than 700 permanent, hands-on exhibits that are enhanced by stage presentations and interpreters. I find it every bit as engaging as my children do, and can easily spend a whole day here.

Highlights are a 65-million-year-old fossil discovered in the Dakota Badlands, an electricity dome with continuing programs, the Butterfly Garden where you can walk among free-flying butterflies in a conservatory filled with exotic plants, a live animal center, a chance to join local meteorologists to learn weather forecasting, and ComputerPlace , where you can operate a robot and explore how your computer stores information. The planetarium presents daily laser and star shows, and the Mugar Omni Theater has a five-story domed screen.

Author's Tip: Save money on a family day at the museum by bringing your own lunch. You are welcome to enjoy it in the Atrium, on the front plaza, or at picnic tables behind the museum. No snacking in the exhibit areas, though.

Address: Science Park, Boston, Massachusetts

Harvard University , founded in 1636, is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and is widely considered one of the world's leading academic centers. Go to the Harvard Information Center to take a spirited and entertaining free walking tour of the campus guided by a student who will share history, Harvard lore, and personal perspective. Or you can download a tour from their website.

Harvard Yard sits right in Harvard Square , a lively hub for students, "townies," and visitors, filled with shops, bookstores, and allegedly more places to buy ice cream than any other U.S. city.

Adjoining Harvard Yard is the Renzo Piano-designed home of the Harvard Art Museums , including three formerly separate collections, each of which ranked high as major U.S. art museums. Few universities have such enviable collections. Fogg Art Museum concentrates on Italian early-Renaissance art, the Busch-Reisinger on Expressionist art of central and northern Europe, with Bauhaus objects and paintings by Kandinsky and Klee.

Another important feature of the museums is one of the world's best collections of Chinese jade, as well as Chinese bronzes, Japanese prints, Indian art, and Greco-Roman antiquities, especially vases and sculptures.

If you're as bookish as I am, don't miss browsing in The Harvard Bookstore , just across Massachusetts Ave. from The Yard. Not associated with the University, this indy store has been a fixture in this same spot since 1932.

If you're looking for Harvard insignia souvenirs, the place to go is the Harvard Coop , across the square.

Address: 32 Quincy Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Boston's lively Italian neighborhood, known as the North End, is one of Boston's oldest, where the silversmith and activist leader Paul Revere lived at the time of the American Revolution. The Paul Revere House, which he bought in 1770 and lived in when he made his famous ride, is the only patriot's home on the Freedom Trail, and is open to tour.

You can climb to the tower of Old North Church , where lanterns were hung in April 1775 to alert Paul Revere that British troops were headed to Lexington to arrest the patriot leaders and confiscate the munitions supplies. The beautiful white interior of the church still retains its historic box pews.

The North End is a favorite spot for tourists for reasons that go well beyond its important historic sights. Although it has changed a bit over the years since it was filled with newly arrived immigrants from Italy, it retains its Italian character and lively flair.

You'll find Italian restaurants; cafes; bakeries; and shops fragrant with aromas of cured olives, fresh-roasted coffee, and Italian cheeses. For my family, Modern Pastry on Hanover St. is a required stop, for cannoli and pignoli cookies.

You'll also find the North Bennet Street School , where skills such as bookbinding, cabinet and furniture making, carpentry, silver and gold work, and violin making are taught. Their gallery shop is like a museum of fine craftsmanship and a good place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts.

On the night of December 16, 1773, more than a year before the first battle of the American Revolution, angry Bostonians protesting a tax on goods shipped to the colonies, stormed ships from England and threw the tea into the harbor at this site. With full-scale replicas of the original ships from which the Sons of Liberty dumped tea overboard, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum offers tours with a participatory reenactment of that event.

Costumed historical interpreters lead visitors through that historic night, through interactive exhibits, films, and multi-sensory experiences. Of course, everyone gets to dump tea into the harbor. In the museum, you'll see the only known tea chest from that ill-fated cargo.

This is more a history-as-entertainment attraction than a living history museum. But kids are drawn into the fun as they learn about shipboard life and American history, so it's no wonder this is one of the favorite things to do for families in Boston.

Address: 306 Congress Street, Boston, Massachusetts

Overlooking the waterfront, the New England Aquarium features more than 20,000 fish and aquatic animals representing over 550 species. A man-made Caribbean coral reef houses a large variety of tropical fish and underwater life including sharks, turtles, and moray eels. The Edge of the Sea touch tank allows visitors to handle small invertebrates like crabs, starfish, and urchins.

Outside the aquarium, visitors can watch harbor seals play, perform, and live in their enclosed habitat. The New England Aquarium also sponsors educational programs and whale-watching tours outside of Boston Harbor, and the adjacent IMAX Theater shows 40-minute films on nature subjects.

To be sure of admission at this popular family attraction, reserve timed entry tickets in advance. Nearby parking is expensive, but it's easy to get here by public transit; the aquarium has its own stop on the MBTA's Blue Line.

Address: Central Wharf, Boston, Massachusetts

Although the four Harvard Museums that make up this complex contain treasures such as the artifacts brought back by Lewis and Clark, for most people, the highlight is the more than 3,000 models of 830 species of flowers and plants, some with insects, and all so realistic that you will have trouble believing they are made of glass. I marvel at these anew, each time I see them.

Created between 1887 and 1936 by German artisans Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka, the flowers are unique in the world, and their secret process has never been replicated. These are part of Harvard's massive research collections, shown under one roof in the Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology , the Mineralogical Museum , the Museum of Comparative Zoology, and the Botanical Museum .

Particularly strong in Native American exhibits , the Peabody shows artifacts and art interpreted as part of a living culture, even when that culture has vanished. You can admire some of the finest examples of Native American arts from many periods and tribes, and also see how these changed as Europeans provided a new market for their goods.

Those who like the Victorian "Cabinet of Curiosities" feel of old traditional museums will love the Pacific Islands balcony - it's like stepping back a century. The Museum of Comparative Zoology , founded by Louis Agassiz in 1859, contains an extensive collection of fossils, including a 25,000-year-old mastodon . The mineralogy collections include a dazzling display of rough and cut gemstones , a world-renowned meteorite collection, rocks, ores, and minerals from around the world.

Address: 26 Oxford Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Both atmospheric and fashionable, Boston's Back Bay (it was once under water, before a hill was leveled to fill it in) is the heart of the 19 th -century city, home of the "Proper Bostonian" of legend. Streets of sedate Brownstone and brick townhouses line the grid of streets between the Public Garden and the Fenway, bounded on the north by Storrow Drive and the Charles River Esplanade.

Stroll its tree-lined streets, especially Newbury Street, to find an almost European atmosphere of small (mostly trendy) shops and boutiques, art galleries, and cafés and restaurants that spill out into sidewalk terraces. Architecture throughout the neighborhood is eclectic, with some fine examples of ornamental terra-cotta and brickwork.

I love walking through Back Bay residential streets at any time of year – in the spring when Magnolias bloom in the tiny front yards, in the winter when the wrought-iron fences sketch patterns against the snow, and in the fall when fallen leaves crunch underfoot.

The main square of the Back Bay area is surrounded by both old and ultra-modern buildings. One side is formed by the Boston Public Library , founded in 1848 as the first publicly funded lending library in the country. Architect Charles Follen McKim designed the present building in 1895.

Go inside to see the library's Renaissance Revival architecture and murals by John Singer Sargent and Edwin Abbey. Granite medallions over the entrance arches are the work of the pre-eminent American sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. The three sets of bronze doors in the vestibule were created by Daniel Chester French. Regular Art and Architecture Tours are among the several free things to do in Boston.

Author's Tip: Boston's best-kept secret may be the elegant afternoon teas served in the tearoom overlooking the beautiful Italianate Courtyard of the Boston Public Library. Crisp white linens and silver-edged crystal set the stage for proper tea sandwiches, scones, and trays of dainty sweets.

Facing the library, across a grassy lawn, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch with neighborhood office workers, is Trinity Church , a red sandstone building designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson in his distinctive style, known as Richardson Romanesque. Trinity is widely considered to be his finest work. The murals, frescoes, and painted decorations inside are by John La Farge and much of the fine stained glass is by Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris.

On a third side of the square is the venerable Boston institution, the Fairmont Copley Plaza ; these three buildings, backed by the sheer glass wall of a skyscraper, create a stunning cityscape. A block down Boylston Street, look for the finish line of the Boston Marathon , run each April on Patriot's Day.

Just beyond is the Prudential Center , a 32-acre complex of apartments, shops, restaurants, and a 52-story tower. On its 50th floor, you can visit the Skywalk observation deck for 360-degree views of Boston and its surroundings.

Address: 700 Boylston Street, At Copley Square, Boston, Massachusetts

At Rowes Wharf, you can board the Odyssey to cruise through Boston Harbor, from Castle Island to George's Island, then east to the Boston Light on Little Brewster Island, and back north to Charlestown Naval Yard before returning to the wharf.

You can enjoy lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch as you savor the views of the Boston skyline from the water. The skyline is especially beautiful at night when you can take a starlight or full moon cruise.

You can travel outside the confines of Boston Harbor on Boston Whale Watching Cruises , for a chance to see humpback and fin whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises, in the wild. This three-hour, naturalist-led tours are very popular and claim to have whale sightings on every trip.

Dedicated to the memory of the 35th U.S. President, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is the official national memorial to JFK, designed by noted architect I.M. Pei and opened in 1979. The museum, which stands on the shore south of the city, features three theaters, personal memorabilia, photographs, and historical exhibits that document the life of JFK and his presidency.

Exhibits cover the presidential campaign trail, the Oval Office, First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, and the Kennedy family. Interactive experiences here include the free and family-friendly Highlights tours and the Hands-on Cart programs, which include the PT-109 story and a closer look at the Race for Space.

Address: Columbia Point, Boston

One of Boston's most beautiful neighborhoods and right in the center of the city, the south side of Beacon Hill has traditionally been the home of Boston's "old money" families, known locally as "Brahmins." Well-kept brick homes in Federal and Greek Revival styles line its tree-shaded streets, and at its heart is Louisburg Square, where homes face onto a leafy private park. Author Louisa May Alcott lived here from 1880 to 1888.

The Nichols House Museum , a Federal-style home by Boston architect Charles Bulfinch, shows how Beacon Hill's upper-class residents lived and is filled with collections of 16th- to 19th-century furnishings and decorative arts. At the western foot of Beacon Hill, Charles Street is lined with boutiques and shops that have traditionally catered to the neighborhood and are popular with visitors as well. Beyond Charles Street, facing the Public Garden, The Bull and Finch , established in 1969, inspired the popular television program, Cheers .

Restaurants and cafes come and go quickly along classy Charles St, but one that has maintained its elegant ambiance and traditional Tuscan country menu is Toscano , where you can dine on melt-in-the-mouth veal scaloppini or a simple four-cheese pizza.

The north side of Beacon Hill is far more modest and has been home to immigrants, including a sizable African American community, since the early 19th century. National Park Service Rangers offer free guided tours of the Black Heritage Trail from April through November and you can follow the trail on a self-guided tour year-round.

The Boston African American National Historic Site includes 15 pre-Civil War homes, businesses, schools, and churches that give a picture of Boston's 19th-century African American community. The Museum of Afro-American History operates the African Meeting House , the country's oldest (1806) church built by and for Black Americans and now restored to its 1854 appearance.

The 1834 Abiel Smith School was the first public grammar school for African American children. Displays at both include artifacts, films, art, and sculpture related to the black experience in Boston and New England.

The Boston waterfront has seen many changes since its early beginnings as a colonial shipping port. After a period of decline for much of the 20th century, new life was breathed into the area in the mid-1970s with an ambitious redevelopment plan.

Today, this interesting mix of residential and commercial space is connected by HarborWalk , an attractive walkway along the waterfront, with parks, public art, benches, cafés, interpretive signs, and access to several means of exploring the harbor by cruise boat, ferry, or water taxi. A shuttle boat also runs to the Charlestown Navy Yard .

Although it extends from Charlestown to South Boston – and will expand considerably farther – the part you won't want to miss goes from the North End through the wisteria-draped pergola of Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park , past Commercial Wharf, India Wharf, and Long Wharf , and by Rowes Wharf before curving along the harbor into the vibrant Seaport District to the Institute of Contemporary Art , an art museum dramatically cantilevered above the water.

One of the newest of Boston's many public parks and green spaces, the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway fills the swath of downtown Boston left bare by the removal of the elevated Central Artery.

Nearly 1.5 miles of parks and gardens connect several diverse neighborhoods, including the financial district, the North End, Chinatown and Faneuil Hall Market, all just a few steps from the linear park.

Public art, gardens, benches, a farmers' market, food trucks, and playgrounds enliven the park, along with a fanciful carousel of whimsical animals, where children can ride on rabbits, a butterfly, turtle, lobster, or a grasshopper. All 36 creatures on the Greenway Carousel were inspired by drawings made by Boston school children. The carousel is specially designed to be accessible to adults and youth with disabilities.

The Boston Symphony Orchestra gave its inaugural concert in 1881, and its first at Symphony Hall , one of the world's most acoustically perfect concert halls, when it opened in 1900. Over more than a century of history, its conductors have included greats such as Pierre Monteux, Serge Koussevitzky, Charles Munch, Seiji Ozawa, and James Levine.

In addition to its regular symphony season, the hall is home to the Boston Pops Orchestra , which sets an international standard for performances of lighter music. For many visitors, the highlight of a trip is a Pops concert, either in Symphony Hall or at the Hatch Memorial Shell , an Art Deco outdoor music shell on the riverside Esplanade that has become a Boston landmark.

The shell hosts a regular program of concerts and other special events, and is especially famous for the Boston Pop's yearly performance of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture on July 4th. Audiences sit on the lawn in front of the shell with views of Cambridge, Back Bay, and Beacon Hill, and the Pops orchestra is accompanied by real cannon fire and ringing Boston church bells.

Following the concert is a spectacular fireworks display over the river; both are televised all over New England. When I lived on River St, a block from the Esplanade, I took my lawn chair and a book to a grassy spot near the Shell at 10 am to get the best spot; now you'll have to wait until noon to stake your claim.

You can go behind the scenes on a tour of Symphony Hall where you'll hear the history and traditions of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, its musicians and conductors.

Address: 301 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts

A "museum of trees," the Arnold Arboretum is especially colorful in the fall, when the maples are ablaze in reds and yellows, and in the spring, when cherry trees, lilacs, or magnolias are in full bloom. But the Arnold Arboretum is beautiful all 12 months of the year. When the trails through its 281 acres are covered in snow, they are popular places to snowshoe and cross-country ski.

A National Historic Landmark , designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead, the Arboretum is maintained by Harvard University , which uses it as a teaching laboratory. Along with a wide variety of trees, shrubs, vines, and perennial flowering plants, are exceptional collections of lilacs, azaleas, and rhododendrons; the Bonsai & Penjing Collection is also a highlight.

The Explorers Garden , occupying a small microclimate within the grounds, is home to two of the world's largest Franklin trees, a species now extinct in the wild. Docent-led tours range from quarter-mile introductions suitable for all abilities to a 90-minute Keeper's Tour.

Address: 125 Arborway, Boston, Massachusetts

The 150-acre MIT campus is of special interest to fans of modern and postmodern architecture , a living museum of works by noted architects including Alvar Aalto, Eduardo Catalano, I. M. Pei, Frank Gehry, and Eero Saarinen.

In addition, the campus displays hundreds of sculptures and art installations that you can see with the help of a self-guided walking tour map, by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, Alexander Calder, Jacques Lipchitz, and Auguste Rodin. In the Hart Nautical Gallery are ship models, and the Compton Gallery shows contemporary art.

Address: 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Official site: www.mit.edu

If you're looking for a seamless vacation packed with fun adventures and ideal weather conditions, the best time of year to go to Boston is during the late spring and early fall . This is technically Boston's high season.

From May through the end of June , things are starting to warm up nicely. You're looking at highs in the upper 60s to high 70s and more comfortable lows in the 50s. Not too hot nor too cold, these temps are perfect for wandering the streets all day. Still, you'll want to pack layers to be sure you're prepared for the fluctuating temperatures.

The months of September and October also present visitors with optimal highs in the mid-60s (October) to high 70s (September). Lows range between high 40s to high 50s. Again, you'll likely need layers. At this time, you'll witness an impressive sight: vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues envelop the city in the form of fall foliage, especially towards the end of October, rewarding photographers with picture-perfect backdrops.

Boston hotels will be more expensive during this time, and you can expect to see larger crowds of tourists, but overall, late spring and early fall are the best times to visit Boston . Since many of the city's best attractions are outside (i.e. the Freedom Trail and Fenway Park ), you're guaranteed an enjoyable visit that allows you to visit the city's most popular points of interest with ease. Plus, you'll be able to ride a Swan Boat in Boston Common . This "ride" is closed during the cold winter months.

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Top 21 Things to Do in Boston, Massachusetts

TripSavvy / Violet Smirnova 

Boston is a one-of-a-kind American city that offers visitors opportunities to relive history, immerse themselves in the arts, cheer for hometown sports teams, explore museums, discover "hidden" harbor islands, and imbibe at local breweries. If you're visiting Boston for the first time or if you've never spent an extended period in Massachusetts' capital city, here are our picks for Boston's 21 must-see places and attractions.

Feel Scholarly at Harvard

Most college campus tours are designed for incoming students, but Harvard University in Cambridge is a tourist attraction in and of itself. It's not only the oldest university in the U.S., but one of the most prestigious schools in the world, counting among its alumni eight U.S. presidents, over 150 Nobel Prize laureates, and hundreds of Rhodes Scholars and Marshall Scholars. Harvard Yard is the center of campus and the oldest part of the school, surrounded by the iconic red-brick buildings that the university is known for. Campus tours are free to attend and led by current students, with options of a historical tour or an arts walk.

Indulge in Oyster Happy Hour

Oysters are a New England staple, and no trip to Boston is complete without slurping down at least a few of these bivalve delicacies. Although they may seem like a lavish snack, many local bars and seafood restaurants include a daily "oyster happy hour" where you can get a few oysters and a drink for a reasonable price. Fresh oysters are practically ubiquitous throughout the city—and New England—but some of the best places to try them include the Union Oyster House , which is America's oldest continuously operated restaurant, or Lincoln . However, feel free to ask a local for their favorite spot and you won't be steered wrong.

Take a Trip to a Venetian Palace

Corbis / Getty Images

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum isn't just an art museum, but an art museum housed inside a replica of a real-life Venetian Palace. Isabella collected works from celebrated painters like Vermeer and Rembrandt and promised to keep them on display to the public. Apart from the expansive art collection, one of the most impressive parts of the museum is the inner courtyard, styled after the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice with its distinctive Renaissance architecture and year-round garden. Isabella was known as an eccentric socialite in her day and that legacy lives on in her museum. For example, anyone with the name "Isabella" has lifetime membership and can enter for free.

Step Inside the World's Largest Walk-in Globe

The Mary Baker Eddy Library

If you're a geography nerd, you can't miss taking a stroll through the Mapparium, the world's largest walk-in... world. Located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story globe offers a perspective of the Earth in a way you've never seen it before. Built in 1935, the Mapparium still shows the world as it was then and includes former countries and bygone borders. The exhibit also includes a special presentation called "A World Of Ideas" of orchestrated music, lights, and narration to enhance your experience.

Walk Along the Freedom Trail

Violet Smirnova / TripSavvy

A walk along the two-and-a-half-mile Freedom Trail is one of the best ways to get acquainted with Boston and to efficiently visit the city's bounty of historic landmarks . If you're in a hurry and in pretty good shape, you can cover the length of the trail in as little as an hour, but that won't really allow you time to stop and visit any of the sites along the way. Your best bet is to allow three hours or more to walk the trail at a leisurely pace and see all of its Revolutionary landmarks. Boston also has an Irish Heritage Trail you may want to explore.

Visit the Boston Public Garden and the Swan Boats

Boston Public Garden, located along Charles Street adjacent to Boston Common, is the nation's oldest botanical garden. The famous Swan Boats return to Boston Public Garden each spring and have done so since they were first invented in 1877 by Robert Paget. The rental business, which operates from mid-April through Labor Day, is still run by descendants of the boats' inventor.

Shop (and Eat) at Quincy Market

 TripSavvy / Taylor Nealand 

Quincy Market is actually just one part of Faneuil Hall Marketplace, but many locals refer to the whole complex as "Quincy Market." The famous indoor-outdoor market is a great place for both shopping and dining, and a perfect place to try local specialties (like the lobster rolls). Quincy Market colonnade houses more than thirty food merchants, so definitely arrive hungry in order to fully take advantage of this culinary attraction.

See a Reenactment of the Boston Tea Party

TripSavvy / Violet Smirnova

The Boston Tea Party is reenacted daily, and you can participate. Really! Steep yourself in history at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum . Rebuilt and reimagined following a devastating 2001 fire and another in 2007, the attraction reopened in 2012, and it's now one of the city's most engaging experiences.

Watch the Red Sox Play at Fenway Park

On a sunshine-filled summer afternoon, there is perhaps no better place to be in all of New England than Fenway Park, the historic home of Major League Baseball's Boston Red Sox. Baseball fans have been energized and agonized by the exploits of some of baseball's greatest players at Fenway since 1912. If you can't score tickets to a Red Sox game , look into behind-the-scenes tours of Fenway Park .

Visit the Museum of Science

Boston's museums are as good as any you'll find in the world, and one of the most visited is the Museum of Science at Science Park. It has more than 700 interactive exhibits including A Bird's World, a 4-D theater, Thrill Ride 360°, a butterfly garden, and a planetarium. Take the kids for a full day of easy entertainment.

Taste Beer at Sam Adams Brewery

Violet Smirnov / TripSavvy

These days, Samuel Adams is known as much for being a brewer as a patriot. Tour the Sam Adams Brewery in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston—which is also home to the Boston Beer Museum—for a glimpse of the beer-making process and a sample of the finished product. The brewery itself is on the outer edges of the city, but you can always visit the Sam Adams Tap Room right in the city center for a more conveniently located taste of this all American beer.

Visit the New England Aquarium

Want to see sea lions smile and penguins play? Head to the New England Aquarium , one of Boston's perpetually popular family attractions . Once inside, you'll find yourself immersed in a watery world, where you can wave your flippers at cavorting sea lions and press your nose right up against the glass of the poisonous fish tank—if you dare!

Take a Day-Trip to a Boston Harbor Island

Kim Knox Beckius

Want to swim, hike , explore the ruins of an old fort, and camp out under the stars at a National Park? Believe it or not, you can do all of these things without leaving the city of Boston. The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area consists of 34 narrow isles scattered in New England's most historic harbor, and you can visit these "hidden" outdoor spaces by boarding seasonal ferries from Quincy and Boston's Long Wharf .

Take a Walking Tour of Back Bay

Back Bay is one of Boston's oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods—especially if you time your trip with the fall foliage . Start with a walk along the Charles River to take in the beauty of this historic neighborhood near downtown Boston. Enjoy a quiet stroll down Commonwealth Avenue, admiring the brownstones that dot this tree-lined street modeled after Paris’ Haussmann renovation. Continue south to shop along trendy Newbury and Boylston streets. If you prefer a bit of guidance, ​ free walking tours are available almost year-round.

Relax at Boston Common

 TripSavvy / Violet Smirnova

The oldest city park in the United States—established 1634—the Boston Common consists of 50 acres between Charles Street and Downtown Boston. Originally used to graze cattle, the Common is now the place for Bostonians to come to graze during a lunch break or a weekend picnic. The Common is also the beginning of the Freedom Trail, making it the perfect place to sit for a while after walking it. When winter arrives, ice skating is available at the Boston Common Frog Pond.

Take in the History of the Boston Public Library

 TripSavvy / Taylor Nealand

While a trip to a public library may not rank highly on everyone’s vacation to-do list, the Boston Public Library is a must-see for visitors thanks to its many prominent murals, huge reading rooms, and Italian Renaissance-inspired interior courtyard complete with fountains and arched pathways. The library also hosts unique, free events throughout the year, ranging from readings to theater performances. 

Relive the 1960s at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

President John F. Kennedy's library and museum offers a glimpse into the 1960s and a chance to experience the life of the president firsthand. While Kennedy only spent a thousand days in office, the museum is home to more than 20 multimedia exhibits and period settings from the White House. I.M. Pei designed the memorial, which sits on a 10-acre waterfront site on Columbia Point. From there, you can see Boston's skyline and nearby Harbor Islands. 

See Ballet at the Boston Opera House

 Getty Images

Initially built in 1928 as a movie palace, the Citizens Bank Opera House lay empty from 1991 to 2004. Following a massive restoration and refurbishment, the Boston Opera House became home to the Boston Ballet. The ornate theatre is also the place to catch touring Broadway shows as well as their annual production of The Nutcracker each holiday season. 

Hover Over Boston Harbor at the Institute for Contemporary Art

One of the best pieces at the Institute of Contemporary Art? The building itself. This South Boston museum is housed in a modern piece of glass architecture that contrasts the rest of Boston’s historic buildings. A highlight is the rear of the museum, a cantilevered glass expanse that hovers over Boston Harbor.

Support Local Productions at Huntington Theatre

Boston’s leading professional theatre since 1982, the Huntington theatre has won the Tony award for "Best Regional Theater" and more than 150 Elliot Norton and Independent Reviewers of New England Awards. Since its opening, the Huntington has played to over 3.5 million people, and presented more than 200 plays—18 of which went on to Broadway or off-Broadway.

Have a Toast at "Cheers"

Famous as the inspiration for the television show Cheers , the former Bull & Finch Pub, now officially known as Cheers Boston, is located in Boston's Beacon Hill District. It's definitely a tourist trap with souvenirs galore for sale and overpriced pub food, but it's still one of those places that fans of the show make a beeline for when they're in Boston. There's a second replica of TV's most famous bar now, too, at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

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33 Best & Fun Things To Do In Boston (Massachusetts)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 16, 2023

Thrumming with art, culture and history, Boston is one of the best places to visit for a one-of-a-kind vacation.

Not only does it offer everything from rock climbing to helicopter touring, but it’s also one of the oldest and most historically significant locations in the United States.

It was the site of the Boston Tea Party; it was the place where Paul Revere took his revolutionary ride.

If you’re interested in the American biography, Boston is where the first pages were written.

Are you planning a trip to Boston? Do you need some pointers and travel hacks for your journey?

Let us take the place of your usual guidebook. Here are just a few of the best things to do in Boston, Massachusetts.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Freedom Trail

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If you’re looking at a map of Boston and wondering where to start, you can hit the ground running with the Freedom Trail .

It will take you through many important landmarks in the city, including the Paul Revere House, the Bunker Hill Monument, the USS Constitution and the site of the Boston Massacre of 1770.

The Freedom Trail is a little more than two miles overall, and it winds through Boston with a series of brick pathways to keep you on track.

In addition to the big-name attractions, you’ll also pass by a number of shops, museums, churches, graveyards and historical meeting houses.

You can wander from the trail at any time if you feel like grabbing a coffee at a local cafe or snapping a commemorative photo with a statue; the bricks will always lead you back.

If you’re considering what to do in Boston, the Freedom Trail is a good way to start your vacation.

It’s both interesting and entertaining, and it’ll serve as a gateway for further sightseeing as you pass through some of the most well-traveled areas of the city.

Check out these tours & activities around the Freedom Trail.

2. Fenway Park

Israel Pabon / Shutterstock

The fields are green. The seats are rickety. The smell of popcorn is always in the air.

As one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the United States, Fenway Park has been carefully preserved as an athletic landmark, so it has a classic, clean-cut vibe that harks back to the golden days of America’s favorite pastime.

For example, did you know that Fenway Park has never been expanded?

It still seats the same number of people as it did in 1912, so it offers a close, personal view of your favorite pitchers and batters.

You can also hail old-fashioned hotdog vendors or take a tour of the stadium’s clubhouses and press rooms.

They’re filled with memorabilia, so you’ll be able to admire the same mitts, bats, balls and trading cards that your parents and grandparents did.

There’s nothing more “Boston” than the home of the Boston Red Sox.

Schedule a tour of Fenway Park if you want to experience the heart and soul of Major League Baseball!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:  4 Yawkey Way, Boston, MA 02215, USA

3. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Mark Zhu / Shutterstock

It isn’t often that you find a museum where the building is just as stunning as the artwork inside of it, but the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum will take your breath away from the moment that you step across the tiles.

Created by Isabella Stewart Gardner, a patron of the arts from the 1800s, it was designed to look like a palace in the middle of a garden.

Its halls are decorated with ornate carpets and wallpapers; its courtyard has a collection of trees, patios, archways and textiles.

Its artifact collection includes everything from old paintings to rare books.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is definitely one of the best things to do in Boston.

If you aren’t amazed by the architecture, you’ll be staggered at everything housed inside of it.

It’s a must-do for anyone with the slightest interest in art!

Address:  25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115, USA

4. Boston Rowing Center

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People in rowboats are a common sight in Boston.

Harvard has a rowing team, and rowers from Cambridge are always training for the next regatta.

But did you know that not every colorful dot on the water is a professional athlete?

Many of them are tourists, and they’re enjoying the services of places like the Boston Rowing Center .

The Boston Rowing Center gives visitors a chance to rent a rowboat and enjoy a splashing good time.

The center is an extension of the Hull Lifesaving Museum, a non-profit dedicated to maritime education, and it welcomes people of all ages who want to flex their biceps with an oar.

If you’re a beginner, you can take a class or join a group rowing tour.

If you know what you’re doing, you can rent your own boat and take the kids for a leisurely afternoon on the river.

Explore the scenery with the help of the Boston Rowing Center.

Rowing is a common activity in Massachusetts , so you’ll fit right in with the locals, and you might even make some new friends to take to the pub when you dry off!

Address:  88 Sleeper St, Boston, MA 02210, USA

5. Boston Common

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Maybe you want to enjoy a morning jog as the sun rises over the trees.

Maybe you want to ride a carousel or splash in an enormous frog pond.

Boston Common can make it happen!

As one of the oldest public parks in the United States, Boston Common is the Massachusetts equivalent of Central Park or the Golden Gate Park.

It’s a large, well-tended recreational area that offers all kinds of events and activities for anyone who can find it.

Visit in the summer to work up a sweat on the tennis courts and baseball fields.

Visit in the fall to watch the leaves change and crunch underfoot.

Visit in the winter to go sledding on the hills or ice skating on the pond.

There’s always something to do in the Boston Common, which is why we consider it a top 10 destination in the city!

Address:  139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111, USA

Visiting other parts of Massachusetts? Check out our list of things to do in Salem, MA !

6. Polcari’s Coffee

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To experience Boston like a local, you’ll need to know all of the local hot spots.

One of the most famous is Polcari’s Coffee .

Passed down from generation to generation, Polcari’s Coffee is an old-fashioned coffeehouse that also sells nuts, herbs, spices, oils and other Italian cooking goods.

You enter through a quaint shopfront and are immediately engulfed by rich smells and dazzling displays of wall-to-wall bean jars.

A vintage scale will balance and weigh your coffee beans when you’re ready to order, and the homey, friendly staff will remember your name if you ever come back.

Polcari’s Coffee is a must-see in Boston.

Not only does it offer high-quality goods, but it’s also one of the cooler, more unusual things to do in the Boston area.

You’ll feel like you stepped back into simpler times as you go on a journey of java.

Address:  105 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113, USA

7. Emerald Necklace

Jay DeWinne / Shutterstock

The Emerald Necklace is a series of parks and gardens that stretches across the “neck” of the Boston peninsula.

It takes advantage of the unique topography of Massachusetts by linking together many of its most beautiful places, including:

– Boston Common – Boston Public Garden – Arnold Arboretum – The Riverway – Olmsted Park – Jamaica Pond

You won’t be able to visit everything in the Emerald Necklace in a single trip.

Each “jewel” of the necklace is a tourist attraction in its own right, so whether you’re hoping to nap among the wildflowers or take a footbridge through the ferns, you’ll need to plan ahead.

Decide which of these sights will bring you the most happiness as a nature lover, and put them on your list of the best places to see in Boston!

Boston attractions come in many forms, but “an upscale fashion boutique hidden behind a dirty vending machine” is one of those that you have to see to believe.

Bodega is a hidden shop in Boston.

You’ll only find it if you travel to a rundown convenience store in the Back Bay, and you’ll have to push aside a specific Snapple vending machine to get inside.

Nothing has signs or markers, not even the convenience store, so you might have to wander the labyrinth of Boston alleyways before you stumble on the right path.

Once you’re inside Bodega, however, you’ll be amazed at its clean, well-lit shopping space.

It’s a luxury brand, so its clothes and shoes are top dollar.

It’s even been graced with celebrity spenders like Jamie Foxx and Kevin Durant.

Bodega is one of the most fun things to do in Boston.

It’s an adventure wrapped in a mystery and topped with a dash of retail joy, and finding it will make a fantastic story to tell your friends when you get home!

Address:  6 Clearway St, Boston, MA 02115, USA

9. Kendall Square

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Known as “the most innovative square mile on the planet,” Kendall Square is a cluster of high-tech buildings where you’ll find everything from science centers to start-up companies.

It’s located very near the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), so young professionals are always scurrying here and there.

Not everything is about work, however.

Kendall Square is home to a number of bars, shops and restaurants where its residents can escape the grind, and these places are usually designed to impress.

For example, the Kendall Center is all business within its walls, but there’s a free rooftop garden where visitors can breathe in the scent of fresh flowers while enjoying incredible views of the city.

Stop by Kendall Square if you’re looking for cool things to do in Boston that you can’t find anywhere else.

There’s only one MIT in the United States, so soak in its neighborhood while you can!

10. Boston Harbor

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There are lots of Boston attractions at the Boston Harbor .

Not only does it carry huge significance as the historical site of the Boston Tea Party, but it’s also home to museums, lighthouses, shipyards, statues and landmarks.

As well as other culturally relevant things that can teach you about the city’s past and its place in the world.

Take a ferry tour of the islands of Massachusetts.

Hop on a bike and pedal down the boardwalk filled with shops and restaurants.

Grab a bite to eat from a local cafe, or visit a floating museum located on a boat where the artifacts sway with the tide.

There’s so much neat stuff at the Boston Harbor that you won’t know what to see first.

There will be too many options for the mortal mind to comprehend.

It’s the only downside of visiting major points of interest in Boston!

Check out these awesome activities around the Boston Harbor.

Traveling to other areas of Massachusetts? Why not check out some of the things to do in Cape Cod ?

11. Brattle Book Shop

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Looking at the Brattle Book Shop , you wouldn’t know that it’s one of the largest and most well-respected bookstores in the state of Massachusetts.

It’s a cozy, crowded kind of place where books are heaped on shelves and collapsing in piles on every available surface.

They even spill out into the brick alleyway beside the store!

If you’re a book lover, however, you’ll quickly realize the treasure trove that is Brattle Book Shop.

There are literally thousands of titles, and they include paperbacks, hardcovers, first editions and out-of-print copies.

There are maps and journals as well as rare manuscripts and vintage comic books.

The only thing that you won’t find here are contemporary bestsellers; it’s an antiquarian establishment, so it specializes in old, rare items.

You could spend an entire weekend getting lost in the shelves of Battle Book Shop, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time when you go.

“Today” can quickly turn into “tonight” when you’re browsing the finest collection of books in Boston!

Address:  9 West St, Boston, MA 02111, USA

12. New England Aquarium

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There’s so much to see and do at the New England Aquarium that you’ll need a dozen pairs of eyes to catch everything.

From the cute little penguins to the colorful sea turtles, it’s a smorgasbord of fun!

The main attraction of the New England Aquarium is its “Ocean Tank,” a series of see-through tunnels that allow you to walk under 200,000 gallons of water.

You’ll crane your neck for all kinds of eels, sharks, stingrays and sea dragons that swim freely over your head.

You might also like the tide pool, a gigantic pool where you can actually touch things like snails, hermit crabs and sea urchins.

Or maybe you’re more interested in the penguin or seal exhibits?

The former is famous for its collection of rockhopper penguins, and the latter is famous for being a free exhibit that you can enjoy outside of the aquarium without even needing to pay for a ticket.

If you’re looking for places to go in Boston, put the New England Aquarium on your shortlist.

You don’t have to be a zoologist to have a great time with the penguins!

Address:  1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA

13. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

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When your money is burning a hole in your pocket, drop by Faneuil Hall Marketplace to relieve yourself of some coins.

Despite the singular name, it’s actually the site of four different marketplaces centered around a public plaza, and you won’t know which way to turn as you eat, drink, shop and sightsee.

You might even witness buskers or jugglers performing for cash!

The main draw of Faneuil Hall Marketplace is the food.

With dozens of vendors, you can find everything from oversized pretzels to spicy meat dishes, and their scents will mingle in the air as you explore.

Another fun thing about the marketplace is the sheer diversity of its wares.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for homemade crafts or locally-grown flowers; you can find all sorts of goodies here.

Finally, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is active at all times of the day and night.

When the sun goes down, the lights come on, and you can still enjoy all of your favorite activities even when it’s dark outside.

Visit the Faneuil Hall Marketplace if you’re looking for the top things to do in Boston.

It’s a lovely, lively place, and it will ensure that you have some good souvenirs of your Massachusetts vacation when it’s time to leave.

Address:  4 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109, USA

14. Santarpio’s Pizza

Owned and operated by the Santarpio family, Santarpio’s Pizza is one of the lesser-known points of interest around Boston.

It’s a favorite of the locals and the select few that they tell about it, but you’ll never find it listed in fancy travel brochures.

What makes Santarpio’s Pizza so special?

For starters, it’s been in operation since 1903, and it still retains its vintage atmosphere to this day.

The walls are covered in boxing posters.

he menu can be changed at a moment’s notice with only a quickly-scribbled sign to announce it.

For many years, it was a cash-only establishment, but they finally relaxed that policy and started accepting credit cards.

As for the food, you won’t be disappointed.

From its signature deep-dish pizzas to its savory lamb skewers, you’ll be able to fill your belly with classic, unpretentious dishes.

Stop by Santarpio’s Pizza if you aren’t afraid of a little grime under your shoes in exchange for an authentic meal experience.

There’s a reason why it’s considered one of the top places to visit in Boston!

Check out this mouth-watering guided pizza tour.

Address:  111 Chelsea St, Boston, MA 02128, USA

15. Museum of Fine Arts

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Offering more than 450,000 artifacts, the Museum of Fine Arts is the largest museum in Massachusetts and the fifth-largest museum in the United States.

It’s the kind of place where you can get lost for days among its galleries, display cases and show rooms.

What are the coolest things to see in the Museum of Fine Arts?

It depends on your fancy.

If you like ancient Egyptian art, you can find everything from glittering jewels to ancient sarcophagi tombs.

If you like oriental works, the museum is famous for its Japanese woodblock prints and Chinese calligraphy scrolls.

There are also all kinds of classics in the form of French post-impressionist art from Monet, Renoir, Degas and Van Gogh.

The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the major tourist attractions of Boston, so you’ll definitely want to put it on your Boston bucket list.

Don’t leave the city without taking in the city’s finest collection of artwork!

Address:  465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA

16. Boston Helicopter Tours

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A helicopter tour of Boston will take your breath away.

The sunlight will glimmer on the skyscrapers and high-rise condos; the waters of the river will stretch as far as the eye can see.

You’ll also enjoy fantastic aerial views of parks, gardens, bridges, baseball stadiums and golden-domed government buildings.

Boston Helicopter Tours isn’t the only company that will send you into the sky, but it’s one of the most popular.

They offer three different tour packages depending on the sights that you want to see, and you can schedule them at day or night.

If you want to watch a sunset over the city, you can do that.

If you want to marvel at the lit-up buildings in the evening, you can do that, too.

Boston Helicopter Tours is an amazing way to go sightseeing in Boston.

You don’t have to settle for coin-operated binoculars on the pier; you can strap yourself into a helicopter and see the entire state of Massachusetts sprawling beneath you!

17. Castle Island

Do you know your revolutionary history? If so, you’ve probably heard of Castle Island .

It’s a small strip of land located off the shores of Boston, and it played an important role for Massachusetts when it was used as a fortification point to stop the British from claiming American soil.

The main attraction of Castle Island is a military bastion called Fort Independence.

Originally built in 1634, it’s been preserved as a historical landmark for centuries, and free tours are available every day for visitors who want to learn more about its history.

Other things to do on Castle Island include biking, swimming, fishing and picnicking.

The serene atmosphere lends itself well to a quiet afternoon where you can recharge your batteries.

It’s for this reason that Castle Island is one of our top Boston attractions: It’s the perfect place to take a breather during the madness of a busy vacation.

Address:  2010 William J Day Blvd, Boston, MA 02127, USA

18. Craigie on Main

Craigie On Main

Craigie on Main is one of the best secrets in Boston.

It isn’t unpopular; it’s a well-known upscale establishment where you can order things like oyster plates and white chocolate almond desserts.

However, the best menu item at Craigie on Main isn’t even on the menu.

It’s a juicy hamburger that you have to request off the books, and you have to be one of the first patrons of the evening to order it.

The chef only makes 18 of these burgers each night!

The prime-cut beef is only available in limited quantities, and the burger is made with such painstaking attention to detail that it wouldn’t be time- or cost-effective to create them over and over again.

For a burger that will change your life, book a reservation at Craigie on Main.

Boston eating doesn’t get better than this.

Address:  853 Main St, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA

19. Museum of Science

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The Museum of Science is easily one of the top things to do in Boston.

Offering everything from a live butterfly garden to a hallway filled with optical illusions, it will delight visitors who are interested in biology, chemistry, history and paleontology.

An indoor zoo will let you observe turtles and porcupines.

Hands-on exhibits will allow you to play around with tools, fossils, putties, moon rocks and tinker toys.

A gigantic generator sits in the middle of a technical display and sends lightning bolts jumping from one metal rod to another, and a planetarium is always flashing lights to send cosmic messages from space.

There’s even a dome theater that plays IMAX movies!

If you’re traveling to Massachusetts, you won’t want to miss the Museum of Science.

It’s a highlight of Boston and a definite bucket list item for visitors of all ages.

Address:  Museum Of Science Driveway, Boston, MA 02114, USA

20. Blue Hills Reservation

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Massachusetts is one of the most beautiful states in the U.S., and nowhere is this more apparent than the Blue Hills Reservation .

While not considered “proper” mountains, the rolling hills are green and lush, and they offer spectacular views of nearby ponds, meadows, swamps and tree groves.

They’re also incredible when observed from a distance: They got their name from European explorers who were dazzled by the blueish mist that surrounded their peaks.

Visitors to the Blue Hills Reservation can enjoy a number of fun outdoor activities.

There’s swimming, fishing, boating and camping in the summer; there’s skiing, sledding and snowshoeing in the winter.

You might also want to take a hike or horseback ride through its numerous nature trails.

Note that the Blue Hills Reservation is located several miles south of Boston, so if you’re looking for stuff to do within city limits, it might not suit your particular travel plans.

If you’re willing to take a little drive, however, you’ll find that the Blue Hills Reservation is well worth the gas. Plan your trip today!

Address:  695 Hillside St, Milton, MA 02186, USA

21. Hatch Shell

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The first thing that you’ll notice about the Hatch Shell is its design.

Made with curved wood in an act deco style, it looks exactly like the open-faced shell that it’s named for, and it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Boston for people who enjoy architectural oddities.

The other noteworthy thing about Hatch Shell is its activity roster.

As a public venue, it hosts all kinds of concerts, festivals and fundraisers, so there’s always something happening under the arched ceiling.

Free movies are shown on the weekends; an orchestra plays on major holidays.

There are summer bands and winter gatherings.

There are charity walks for every cause that you can imagine.

Long story short, there’s tons of fun to be had at Hatch Shell.

You just have to figure out what you want to do.

Are you in the mood for movies or music?

Do you want to shout at a political rally or listen to the trumpets blare during a live orchestra performance?

The Hatch Shell has a little something for everyone, so it’s definitely one of the top destinations of Boston!

Address:  47 David G Mugar Way, Boston, MA 02108, USA

22. Mount Auburn Cemetery

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Visiting a cemetery might not be at the top of your vacation ideas, but Mount Auburn Cemetery isn’t an ordinary burial ground.

It’s a garden and a graveyard at the same time, and it’s considered a National Historic Landmark due to its venerable age.

Not only is it the oldest cemetery in the state of Massachusetts, but it’s one of the oldest in the whole of the United States!

What can you do at the Mount Auburn Cemetery?

If you enjoy photography, you’ll love the natural scenery of its fields, groves, lakes and burial plots.

There are elaborate headstones everywhere, and an on-site chapel is an architectural marvel with textured ceilings and stained glass windows.

A stone watchtower overlooks the grounds if you want to climb the steps and look at everything from on high.

You can also play find-the-grave if you’re a fan of famous names.

A lot of remarkable people have been buried at Mount Auburn Cemetery, including Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, Mary Baker Eddy and even Mother Goose!

Mount Auburn Cemetery is one of the most fun things to do when you’re near Boston.

It won’t thrill you like a roller coaster, but it’ll be a unique experience during your Boston vacation, and you’ll never forget the time that you spend there.

This will be especially true if you take pictures for your scrapbook!

Address:  580 Mt Auburn St, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA

23. Newbury Street

Newbury Street is one of the best places to visit in Boston.

In fact, it might be one of the best places to visit in the entire state of Massachusetts.

It’s a mecca for high-end retail, and its reputation has given rise to some of the trendiest shops in the country.

Countless retailers have gotten their start on Newbury Street.

Some of the businesses are housed in the iconic brownstone buildings that give the street its signature look; others are pop-up stores or temporary kiosks that are meant to showcase exclusive goods or capitalize on popular fads.

There are things sold on Newbury Street that you can’t find in traditional boutiques and department stores.

You have to be in the right place in the right time on Newbury Street, and that’s part of the magic of the location.

Newbury Street is one of the major points of interest of Boston; it’s basically the Fifth Avenue of Massachusetts.

If you’re wondering where to go on your Boston vacation, you won’t want to miss this mile-long wonder.

24. Franklin Park Zoo

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Fun for the whole family, the Franklin Park Zoo is one of our favorite Boston attractions.

It’s the kind of place where you can come back every weekend and still not see everything. There’s just too much going on!

The biggest draws, of course, are the animals.

The tropical habitat has monkeys, hippos, crocodiles and capybaras; the grassland habitats have lions, zebras, giraffes and wildebeests.

The outback trail is filled with kangaroos and kiwis; the “bird’s world” is filled with sparrows and sea eagles.

There are other nifty things to do at the Franklin Park Zoo.

For example, there’s a golf course adjacent to the main attraction, and an arboretum is available for tours and nature walks.

No matter what kind of family fun that you’re after, the Franklin Park Zoo is one of the top destinations in Boston.

Whether you’re hoping to fly like a butterfly, swing like a monkey or stomp like a rhino, this zoo will provide an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Address:  1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121, USA

25. Brooklyn Boulders

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Are you afraid of heights?

Located just outside of Boston, Brooklyn Boulders is an indoor rock climbing facility where you can test your bravery on walls that rise to dizzying heights.

You don’t have to be an experienced climber to go for gold; there are rookie classes where you can slowly build both your skills and your courage before you ascend to the highest hand-holds.

When you’re done with the rocks, there are other activities to enjoy at Brooklyn Boulders as well.

You can take a yoga class, hop on some cardio equipment and even enjoy live music during special events.

If you’re looking for the best things to do near Boston, consider Brooklyn Boulders.

You don’t have to be within the bounds of the city to have fun!

Address:  12A Tyler St, Somerville, MA 02143, USA

26. Prudential Tower

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Known to locals as “the Pru,” this 900-foot skyscraper is a marvel of modern architecture.

It’s also a hopping tourist attraction filled with everything from restaurants to retail shops, so the interior is just as exciting as the exterior.

Visitors can explore everything from food courts to fashion boutiques as they wander the shopping centers of Prudential Tower.

At the very, very top of the building, you’ll find “Top of the Hub,” a restaurant that offers floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the city.

You can also get great views from the Skywalk Observatory , a high-level observation deck that showcases everything below.

Prudential Tower is one of the big places of interest in Boston.

Even if you’re going to shop or dine elsewhere, you won’t want to miss the scene from its observation deck.

They’re worth every bit of the climb!

Address: 800 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199, USA

27. Taza Chocolate Factory

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Unleash your inner child with a trip to the Taza Chocolate Factory .

Not only will you fulfill a lifelong dream of living like Willy Wonka, but you’ll also get to learn about a rare type of chocolate known as “stone-ground” chocolate.

It’s not a new invention.

It actually dates back to the days of the Aztecs and the Mayans.

It uses grinding tools to create crunchy, gritty chocolate that’s completely different from the creamy store-bought stuff, and it’s all the rage among chocolate connoisseurs.

A tour of the Taza Chocolate Factory will let you see the cocoa beans being crushed into powder by granite millstones.

You’ll also get to ask questions, touch the machines, watch informative videos and enjoy all of the free samples that you can eat.

If you go on a weekend, you can catch special children’s events like Chocolate Story Time and Taza Cacao Scout Bingo.

Give your taste buds something new to try with the sweet treats of the Taza Chocolate Factory.

It’s one of the lesser-known tourist attractions of Massachusetts, but it’s worth going off the map.

Address:  561 Windsor St, Somerville, MA 02143, USA

28. Middlesex Fells Reservation

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Also known as “the Fells,” this is another vacation spot that’s a little outside of Boston, but it’s easy enough to hop over once you’re done in the city.

It’s also worth the extra trip.

The Middlesex Fells Reservation offers more than 2,200 acres for nature lovers to explore, and it’s filled with rentable equipment for outdoor activities that range from mountain biking to horseback riding.

If you don’t mind getting wet, you can also go sailing, canoeing, kayaking or paddle boating.

If you’d prefer to stay dry, you can check on-site attractions like the John Botume House.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Boston, the Middlesex Fells Reservation should get a giant checkmark on your map.

It has a little something for everyone, and it’ll open your lungs to fresh Massachusetts air!

Address:  4 Woodland Rd, Stoneham, MA 02180, USA

29. Harvard Museum of Natural History

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The Harvard Museum of Natural History offers unique things that can’t be found anywhere else in Massachusetts.

It isn’t a collection of musty books and artifacts; it’s a dazzling display of art, science and nature.

For example, the museum is home to a “glass garden” that draws visitors from around the world.

There are thousands of flowers, ferns, trees, seeds and saplings that are represented by highly realistic glass-blown botanical models.

Where else can you find something like that?

There are other jaw-dropping attractions at the museum as well.

The gigantic skeleton of a black whale is suspended from the ceiling.

Gemstones glitter in their display cases. Meteorite fragments are carefully preserved behind glass.

There’s no question about it: The Harvard Museum of Natural History is one of the best things to do in Boston.

It offers a one-of-a-kind experience for anyone who is willing to step inside and learn something new. Schedule your tour today!

Address:  26 Oxford St, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA

30. Revere Beach

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You might not think of Boston as a tropical destination, but there are still a few places where you can enjoy sun and sand.

One of them is Revere Beach .

Located a few miles north of Boston, Revere Beach is ideal for warm-weather fun.

Not only does it offer the usual summertime pursuits like swimming and suntanning, but you can also enjoy yourself in skating rinks, bowling alleys and dance halls.

There’s always a lively crowd. You’ll make friends every time that you go back to the bar for another cocktail.

The next best thing about Revere Beach is that it’s in a centralized location.

You can take its main highway and head directly into downtown Boston, or you can branch out to several other Massachusetts cities in the surrounding areas.

The choice is yours. Where are you going to go?

31. Bow Market

There are lots of malls and markets in Boston, but Bow Market is one of the most unique.

Housed in a sunny courtyard, it’s a small, open-air shopping complex that only allows independent retailers, so it boasts an eclectic mix of booksellers, wine bars, nail salons, candy shops and vinyl record stores.

Visitors can wander around the complex and enjoy everything from craft beers to hand-painted jewelry.

There’s no rush and no limit to the cool stuff that you might find as you browse.

If you work up an appetite while shopping, hit up the food trucks that are always parked nearby.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Boston that aren’t overrated or overrun with tourists, consider Bow Market.

You’ll be able to support small business owners while also getting a taste of the real Boston: the one that isn’t listed in a glossy brochure.

Address: 1 Bow Market Way, Somerville, MA 02143, USA

32. Georges Island

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Part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, Georges Island is a great spot for vacationers.

It’s just a little outside of the city, and it’s a nice way to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Activities on Georges Island range from the historical to the recreational.

Fort Warren is an important landmark if you’re interested in military history; there are parks, playgrounds, shops and restaurants if you prefer unstructured entertainment.

A ferry runs every day from Boston to Georges Island, so getting there will never be a problem. You’ll always be able to catch a ride.

If regular old Boston isn’t enough for you, take a side trip to Georges Island.

It will keep the fun going even after you’ve exhausted the major attractions of the city, and it’ll be another place to check off your map as a globetrotter!

33. Boston Harborwalk

It’s tough to say goodbye to Boston, but you can end your vacation in a satisfying way when you take the Boston Harborwalk .

Stretching across the piers and ports of the city, the Boston Harborwalk will take you on a “greatest hits” journey around Boston.

If you wander on foot, you’ll pass all of the shops, pubs, museums, theaters and art galleries that make it such a busy tourist destination.

If you hike or bike it, you can get in one last adrenaline rush as you move through nature trails and gardens.

If you opt for a cruise, you can relax on the water as you take in the Boston skyline for the final time.

All trips have to come to an end, but with the Boston Harborwalk, parting will be a little less sorrowful.

Start Planning Your Trip To Boston

These are just a few ways to enjoy your time in Boston, Massachusetts.

There are many more, so don’t feel limited by the suggestions on this list.

It’s one of the best vacation spots in the United States, so there are always new things to see, do, taste, buy, climb and explore in the greater Boston area!

55 Best Things to Do in Boston (+ Travel Tips!)

When we moved to Boston for the summer, we never expected to fall in love with it–but between the beauty of the city, the amazing food scene, and all of the fun things to do in Boston, we ended up leaving at the end of that summer swearing to come back soon–a promise we have since kept with return visits.

As soon as we touched down in Boston, we both loved it. It just felt good. The city was homey and exciting and relaxing and new and familiar all at the same time, in the very best ways.

Immediately, we were head over heels for both Boston and New England as a whole.

We quickly set to work making an aspirational list of all the best things to do in Boston that we hoped to accomplish over our nearly 3 months in the city.

By the end of the summer, we had compiled a huge list of all the best things to do in Boston MA .

Looking to plan a trip to one of the USA’s most historic and fascinating cities? Start here.

Table of Contents

Iconic Things to Do in Boston

Cool museums to visit in boston, neighborhoods to explore in boston, where to get outside in boston, ma, best foodie things to do in boston, more fun things to do in boston, getting around boston, read more about visiting new england (and beyond).

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.

Walk the Freedom Trail.

First things first: Boston’s 2.5-mile-long Freedom Trail covers 16 incredible historical sites, primarily centering around the American Revolution.

Check out Paul Revere’s House, stand at the site of the Boston Massacre, climb aboard the USS Constitution, and visit the Old North Church–just to start.

There’s a reason this is at the top of everyone’s list of things to do in Boston!

Some of the sites require a small entrance fee, but outside of that, the Freedom Trail is completely free, though you can book an affordable tour of the trail if you’d like more historical context behind the sights.

Sure, the idea of being led around by a tour guide in 18th-century garb is a bit cheesy, but it’s also lots of fun (and an easy way to learn tons of American history).

You can easily walk the Freedom Trail independently, but a guided tour is relatively inexpensive and can add lots of context to the sights–especially if you’re not from the USA or haven’t cracked open a US History book since high school.

Wander through the Boston Public Garden.

The Boston Public Garden is one of our favorite spots in the city: it’s gorgeous, it’s peaceful, and it’s the perfect place for either a walk or a picnic.

If you’d like to check out the view from the water, the swan paddle boats are an amazing deal in the heart of Boston: $4.50/ride for each adult.

Spend an afternoon in the Boston Common.

Boston Common is impossible to miss on a list of things to do in Boston, if only because of what surrounds it.

Beacon Hill, the Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, and the Boston Public Garden are all visible from the Common, and Downtown Crossing, the Theater District, Back Bay, and more are all just a short walk away.

Even better, Boston Common is a destination in its own right: the green lawns are perfect for flopping, the food stalls sell (admittedly overpriced) snacks, and you can almost always find a performance going on during the weekends, whether it’s as elaborate as Shakespeare in the Park (we once saw an excellent performance of Romeo and Juliet there) or as simple as one person with an instrument.

Be sure to check out the Frog Pond , too!

This shallow (less than a foot deep) pool is a splash pool for children in the summer, but in the winter, it turns into an ice skating rink–that will be our first stop if we ever get around to visiting Boston in the winter!

Visit the crypt under the Old North Church.

Underneath the famous Old North Church lie 37 tombs that were built between 1732 and 1860, and the crypt that houses them is open for visitors.

Climb down the cramped staircases to learn about how and why this crypt was used. It’s definitely a different atmosphere down there than walking into the Old North Church sanctuary above it!

Tour the Massachusetts State House.

Massachusetts’ beautiful gold-domed State House is free to tour on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, though you will need to make plans in advance !

If you’re interested in the history of the building, be sure to put this on your list of things to do in Boston.

Get great skyline views.

There is no shortage of opportunities to get great views of Boston’s skyline!

Most popular is the top of the Prudential Center (or “the Pru”).

Once called the Skywalk Observatory, this iconic viewpoint has recently been redone, expanded (multiple decks, a rooftop bistro and bar, etc.), and rebranded as View Boston .

Also making the list are the 14th floor of the Independence Wharf (it’s free, but be sure to bring ID!), the view from the Longfellow Bridge, and the view from the top of the Bunker Hill Monument, which is where the below photo was taken from.

Whatever view you pick, make sure you add a skyline view to your list of the best things to do in Boston!

Book your View Boston tickets today!

Take a tour of Harvard.

Whether you choose to sign up for a student-led tour or you opt to download Harvard’s free walking tour from their website, don’t miss a chance to walk around one of the most famous educational institutions in the world!

While you’re over there, make the time to spend the day in Cambridge .

O ff-campus, Cambridge itself has so much to offer that it really deserves its own blog post one day!

Tours of Harvard are surprisingly inexpensive –if you want a guide, this is a great place to have one!

Wander through the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a beautiful place that is home to Venetian-inspired architecture, remarkable art… and an interesting story.

In 1990, 13 works of art were stolen from this museum in a heist that sounds like something out of a movie: two thieves posed as Boston Police Officers, outwitted the guards, locked them in the basement, and made off with their bounty.

To this day, empty frames hang symbolizing where the stolen art should be displayed, and the museum is offering a $10-million-dollar reward for the return of the art.

Dump tea in the river at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.

We love quirky museum ideas, and this one definitely fits that bill: in the Boston Harbor sits a ship designed to look like one from the 18th century.

Take a tour of the ship and adjoining museum to learn all about the history and implications of the Boston Tea Party, and end the occasion by channeling your inner colonist and participating in one of the most famous things to do in Boston (at least historically speaking): dumping tea into the harbor!

There is also a cafe on site serving, what else, the types of tea tossed into the harbor all those years ago, so stop in if you feel like tasting some!

Book your Boston Tea Party experience today!

Visit the Boston Museum of Science.

In a city home to legendary educational institutions such as MIT and Harvard, it makes perfect sense that the Museum of Science in Boston would be top-notch, and it definitely is.

From robotics to space to fossils to the Hall of Human Life and beyond, Boston’s Science Museum covers a vast array of topics and is sure to have something to interest anyone with an even slightly curious mind.

Visit the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

The Museum of Fine Arts, or MFA, is home to one of the biggest art collections in the USA.

With nearly 500,000 works of art within its walls, it’s a must-see for any art lover passing through Boston.

Get tickets for the Museum of Fine Arts today!

Go see the Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library.

If you’re a travel nerd, a map nerd, a history nerd, a geography nerd, or all of the above, definitely make time to visit the Mapparium when you’re sightseeing in Boston.

The Mapparium is an odd exhibit: it’s a gorgeous (and giant) stained glass globe, designed to show all of the continents in their true proportions, unlike typical maps… and you view this globe by standing on a bridge inside of it.

The geographical map is frozen in time to when the Mapparium was created in 1935: the number of countries that have changed names and/or borders in that time is incredible, and Jeremy and I had a blast picking out places we had been that had changed in that last 90 years.

Truthfully, we weren’t sure whether or not this visit would be worth the time, but it far exceeded expectations.

Sadly, they don’t allow photos inside–all the more reason to plan a visit and see it for yourself!

Pay a visit to MIT and the MIT Museum.

If you’re inspired by scientific discovery, it’s hard to imagine a better place to explore in Boston than MIT and the MIT Museum.

Start with walking through the famous campus, either on a guided or self-led tour (information for self-led tours is available for free on MIT’s website ), and then follow it up with a visit to the MIT Museum for incredible exhibitions on cutting-edge scientific research, as well as the history of science!

Visit the Bunker Hill Monument & Museum.

Located a bit further away from the center of Boston than most of the sights along the Freedom Trail, the Bunker Hill Monument was built in honor of the Battle of Bunker Hill, one of the first battles of the Revolutionary War.

If you’re willing to handle a bit of a climb, there are some amazing views of Boston from the top, as well!

We loved visiting, and enjoyed the fact that in spite of its fame, its location a bit further from most other Freedom Trail stops gives it more of an off the beaten path feeling (at least for tourists) while exploring Boston.

Explore Back Bay.

Beautiful mansions, plenty of trees, and trendy restaurants: what more could you want?

Back Bay is one of Boston’s trendiest neighborhoods and absolutely worth adding to your list of what to do in Boston. 

If you’re looking for restaurant ideas in the area, Buttermilk & Bourbon for brunch (order the biscuits!) and La Voile for lunch or dinner are excellent options.

Here are a few of the best things to see in Back Bay!

Boston Public Library

The reading room of the Boston Public Library is both incredibly beautiful and free to visit.

Be sure to stop by when looking for all the best things to do in Boston!

Trinity Church

Founded in 1733, Trinity Church is one of Boston’s most historic churches and important churches–though the original building has long since burned down.

The current stunning structure dates to the 19th century.

Commonwealth Ave.

This gorgeous tree-lined avenue is home to some of the most beautiful homes in Boston, and is definitely worth a peek.

Newbury Street

Newbury Street is one of Boston’s premier shopping streets, chock full of boutiques, restaurants, and small shops (including a Harry Potter-themed one!). 

Bibliophiles, be sure to duck into Trident Booksellers & Cafe while you’re there.

Copley Square

As one of the most important public squares in Boston and home to a tasty farmer’s market, Copley Square is located right next door to the Boston Public Library.

Explore the North End.

The North End is Boston’s most famous neighborhood, historically known for its Italian charm .

Though the tourist trap restaurants outnumber those serving genuine Italian food these days, the neighborhood itself is still incredibly beautiful and charming to walk through –it features some of my favorite architecture in Boston, perhaps second only to Beacon Hill.

Be sure to stop into one of the Italian grocery stores, grab some sweets (we can attest to how tasty Modern Pastry is), and visit Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church while here!

Wander through Beacon Hill.

Beacon Hill is one of the USA’s oldest and prettiest neighborhoods.

Be sure to check out Louisburg Square for some idyllic homes, and Acorn Street for oodles of photo opportunities .

Popular Acorn Street just may be the prettiest of all the places to visit in Boston for photos. It’s also one of the most iconic streets in the country .

Charles Street in Beacon Hill is also home to plenty of boutiques and restaurants, making this a great place to stop for a meal.

Visit the USA’s first public beach at Revere Beach.

Growing up in suburbs in the USA, we still occasionally get excited by all the different things that can be accessed by public transportation around the world–and we get even more excited when that variety happens at home in the United States.

In Boston, you can take the T directly to the United State’s first public beach–you can’t ask for an easier way to access Revere Beach!

Stroll along the Harborwalk.

No visit to Boston could be complete without seeing a piece of its gorgeous Harborwalk. Enjoy both views of the city and views of the harbor itself while walking along the coastline.

Though, since the Harborwalk is a whopping 47 miles long, you certainly don’t need to visit more than a small section of it to appreciate its beauty.

Check out the Arnold Arboretum.

Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a bit?

Head to the Arnold Arboretum: belonging to Harvard University and acting as the second largest “link” in the Emerald Necklace that surrounds downtown Boston, this is a beautiful place to unwind.

Take sailing lessons on the Charles River.

Sadly, we didn’t get a chance to cross sailing lessons off of our things to do in Boston list this summer–with how much traveling we wanted to do on the weekends, we knew it would be too ambitious to try to fit it in.

Whenever we pass by the small student boats bobbing on the water, though, we feel a pull toward them!

If the weather is right, be sure to try your hand at sailing while in Boston. Sailing packages of all sizes are available right on the Charles River.

Walk along the Charles River Esplanade.

The Charles River Esplanade stretches along the southern bank of the Charles River, near Back Bay.

It’s the perfect place for a jog, a picnic, a long walk, or–on the Fourth of July–to watch the fireworks from.

We opted to watch the fireworks in Cambridge rather than fight the crowds on the Esplanade, but there’s no doubt that if you’re willing to secure a place early, you’ll have a great time watching the Boston fireworks from the Charles River Esplanade.

Take a day trip to the Boston Harbor Islands.

Boston’s Harbor Islands are a great place to go to feel away from the city (but not so far away, as you can see the skyline from some islands!).

Enjoy a trail, hang out on a beach, or climb to the top of the lighthouse.

Whatever island and activity you choose to add to your list of things to do in Boston, the Boston Harbor Islands are sure to make a great, quick escape from the bustle of the city.

Take a day trip to Salem.

From the history of the Salem Witch Trials to the slightly-less-macabre history of Salem as a port city to plenty of fun restaurants and shopping, Salem is an easy and fun day trip from Boston.

Located less than an hour away by train, Salem is an incredibly simple day trip and well worth adding to your list of things to do in Boston!

Check out the Boston Public Market.

Don’t make the mistake of going to the Boston Public Market with anything but a completely empty stomach: this is a place that you eat your way through.

Whether you’re craving a bagel, a pastrami sandwich, a Union Square Donut, ice cream, gourmet popcorn, or something else entirely, there will be plenty to eat here.

If you’re headed home afterward, feel free to pick up some meat, cheese, fresh produce, or any number of other products to take home as well.

Visit Haymarket.

On Fridays and Saturdays, the outdoor Haymarket opens for business next to the Boston Public Market.

Piles and piles of fresh fruits and vegetables are sold at competitive prices–just as they have been since 1830.

If your trip to Boston coincides with Haymarket, be sure to add this to your list of what to see in Boston!

Grab a drink at the Bell in Hand Tavern.

The Bell in Hand Tavern holds the distinction of being America’s Oldest Tavern, having poured its first drink in 1795.

The Tavern is famous for its ale, and the burgers and Boston Creme Pie aren’t bad, either!

Grab afternoon tea at the Boston Public Library.

The Boston Public Library (including its awe-inspiring reading room, intricate architecture, and delightful courtyard) is indisputably gorgeous and worth a visit.

Less well known is the fact that The Courtyard Restaurant, located on-site, serves a beautiful afternoon tea!

Make reservations for Tuesday-Sunday for an unusual library experience.

Try the original Boston Creme Pie and original Parker House rolls at the Omni Parker House.

In the heart of downtown Boston lies the oldest continuously operating hotel in the United States, which is dripping with opulence and worth stepping inside just to see it.

The Omni Parker House has played host to guests such as Charles Dickens and Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Its carbs, however, are the real highlight: Parker’s Restaurant is the birthplace of both Parker House Rolls and the Boston Creme Pie, both of which were delicious when we tried them in their original home.

Go see Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market.

… But you’re probably not going to want to buy anything.

These historic markets and their surrounding area are about as touristy as you can get: high prices, gimmicky items for sale, and questionable quality of food for sky-high prices.

However, the buildings are beautiful and the history neat, and since they are located right on the Freedom Trail, be sure to stop in and have a look!

Tour the Samuel Adam’s Brewery.

Want to try a classic Boston beer right where it is botn??

Add the Samuel Adam’s brewery tour to your list of fun things to do in Boston!

For obvious reasons, make sure you bring your ID with you to this tour.

Ride the oldest subway in the USA.

The Green Line on “the T” (Boston’s subway and tram system) is the oldest in the country: specifically, the area between the Boylston and Park Street stops.

Luckily, this is right in the middle of Boston’s tourism center, so you’ll almost certainly end up here without trying while exploring the many things to do in Boston.

Drive past the best things to see in Boston on a Duck Tour.

Cheesy and touristy beyond belief, if you’re looking for a fast and easy way to get around the city and see some of Boston’s historical attractions quickly, a Duck Tour is worth considering.

Why is it called a Duck Tour? Because the truck you ride in… is also a boat!

Part of the tour takes place throughout Boston’s roads, and the rest of it takes place from the harbor itself.

Book your Boston Duck Tour today!

Pause to reflect at the Holocaust Memorial.

The New England Holocaust Memorial is not only incredibly beautiful, somber, and well put together, it is right in the heart of the city.

T he memorial is across the street from the famous Bell in Hand Tavern, and if you’re hitting major tourism hot spots along the Freedom Trail, you’ll undoubtedly be very close by.

Take a Harbor Cruise.

Boston’s skyline is beautiful from the water, and taking a cruise on the harbor is a perfect way to appreciate it!

Go on a basic group cruise to experience the sites, opt for a luxurious private, catered cruise at sunset, or anything in between!

For a less expensive harbor cruise, this sunset cruise is a great option!

Visit the New England Aquarium.

The New England Aquarium is now arguably our favorite aquarium in the world, and visiting it is one of our favorite things to do in Boston. It’s also an unmissable experience if you’re visiting Boston with kids !

Not only does it use water from the harbor in some of its exhibits and have an enormous focus on conservation, and it’s also home to our favorite marine animal of all time: penguins.

The New England Aquarium is home to 3 different species of penguins, and they are all absolutely adorable. Be sure to stop by at penguin feeding time (11:00 AM and 2:30 PM) to see these guys get really excited!

After, be sure to head up to the top of the 4-story Ocean Life tank–see if you can spot Myrtle the sea turtle while you do!

Want to avoid waiting? Purchase a skip the line aquarium ticket before you get there!

See a show.

From elaborate theater productions to the ballet, to the symphony, Boston has no shortage of shows to see. Check what’s in season when you’re coming to Boston and set aside one night to enjoy a show!

During our summer in Boston, we saw Wicked at the Boston Opera House.

The Boston Opera House is incredibly gorgeous, more than I would have even imagined–it would not look out of place in any European capital city.

We also hit the park one night for Shakespeare in the Park and saw (for free!) a wonderful production of Romeo & Juliet in the Boston Common .

If Shakespeare in the Park is going on during your visit, don’t miss this awesome free show in Boston!

Stargaze at the Coit Observatory.

Most Wednesday nights (weather permitting), the Coit Observatory at Boston University opens to the public to let people learn about astronomy and observe the night sky using telescopes and binoculars available on location.

Even better? This is a free event–if you can get tickets .

The events do “sell” out, so be sure to book in advance through the observatory’s website when you’re planning what to do in Boston!

Visit the Brattle Book Shop.

Brattle Book Shop is a fantastic stop for anyone who loves independent bookstores: on nice days, their bargain books are all set up outside in an empty lot next to their building, with a simple pricing structure: $1, $3, or $5 per book, depending on the color of the sticker.

If you head inside, you’ll not only find even more books, you can check out the posters for the rare books that are for sale as part of their collection.

Ever considered spending $150,000 on a book?

Me either, but apparently someone did: that book’s poster had a “sold” sticker on it.

Check out the Spite House.

Also known as the “Skinny House”, the Spite House is not only a fun site to see, it has a great story to go with it.

As the story goes, during the American Civil War, two brothers inherited some property. One brother was away serving in the military, and the other brother took the opportunity to take over the inheritance, building a house big enough that he was certain his brother wouldn’t have room for a home of his own.

When the second brother returned from the war, he built the narrow “Spite House” on what was left of the property, blocking light and views from reaching his brother’s house.

The Spite House is located directly across the street from the Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, so if you’re walking the Freedom Trail, you won’t miss it!

Want to learn some of Boston’s darker secrets? Check out this ghosts and graveyards tour –Boston is easily one of the best cities in the USA to take a ghost tour in!

Eat all the Boston Creme Pie.

Boston’s most famous dessert lives up to the hype: even if you don’t make it to Omni Parker House for the original one, be sure to order at least a couple of these around town during your trip to Boston!

Catch a ball game at Fenway Park.

Boston’s Red Sox are famous: loved by some, hated by others, they remain one of the most famous baseball teams in the United States.

Head to Fenway Park for one of the most classic things to do in Boston: catch a game and eat a Fenway Frank.

Be sure to check the game schedule and buy tickets before the day you plan to visit (and if you’re a big baseball fan who happens to be in town when the Red Sox aren’t playing, you can also opt to tour the park instead).

Boston is a walking city at heart–expect to be on your feet a lot when you are exploring things to do in Boston. Its walkability is one of our favorite aspects of the city!

When you’re not walking, you’ll likely be on a train (or perhaps a bus): pick up single tickets, a one-day link pass, or a seven-day link pass at any T station.

CharlieCards (which are what the locals use) and CharlieTickets (a visitor-focused version of the CharlieCard) are available only at some stations–you need to get them directly from an MBTA employee.

For a short trip, however, I wouldn’t worry about it: just pick up a pass. Single rides are $2.40 one way, so if you’re going to be hopping around sightseeing, a one-day pass ($11.00) or seven-day pass ($22.50) will almost certainly be a better deal.

Uber and Lyft both have a presence in the city, though Uber is much more prevalent and has many more drivers. Cabs, of course, are available as well.

One thing we would not recommend in Boston? Driving.

The streets are not laid out in a typical grid pattern, making it confusing to get around. Traffic is congested. Parking is incredibly expensive. Just… don’t drive, unless you’re heading out of Boston to some of the small towns in Massachusetts . It’s not necessary!

We have grown incredibly passionate about Boston over the summer: it is a beautiful city, it’s packed with more US history than arguably anywhere else in the world, it is home to delicious food, and is overall an inviting and fascinating place.

True, we’re not in a hurry to move here and contend with the prices and the winter on a full-time basis, but Boston is now ranked among our favorite cities in the world, and we will definitely be back .

( 2024 update : we’ve definitely been back to Boston since that first summer, and now consider Boston one of the dozen or so cities that we’ll never be finished revisiting).

After all, there’s no chance of us running out of incredible things to do in Boston!

Even this very long rundown of Boston bucket list ideas doesn’t cover it all–no one post possibly could–but there’s more than enough here to fill up a first trip, second trip, and beyond.

Excited to hit the road soon and ready to keep planning your trip?

You can browse  our 100+ blog posts about traveling in the USA here , or check out these guides:

• How to Spend One Perfect Day in Boston, MA (Itinerary + Tips!)
• 25 Best Christmas Vacations in the USA
• New York in 2 Days: The Perfect Weekend in NYC Itinerary
• 17 Fun Weekend Getaways from Boston
• 15 Cool Cities Perfect for Weekend Getaways in the USA

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.

27 thoughts on “55 Best Things to Do in Boston (+ Travel Tips!)”

Such a detailed description!! USA is on my list to visit soon. I’ve heard nice things about Boston from my friends, would love to cross all the things you mentioned in the post!!

I think Boston is a great city for a first-time visit to the USA! So much of our Revolutionary War history is here, and Boston is a great jumping off point for the rest of New England, NYC, Niagara Falls, and more.

I’ve wanted to go to Boston for a while. That skyline is pretty spectacular and I would love to tour Harvard. I’m a huge baseball fan and grew up going to games, so I’d be down for a trip to Fenway to see the Green Monster in person, and hopefully catch a game while I’m there, even though I’m no Red Sox fan. Plus, I’m a huge history buff, so taking a historical tour would be super awesome as well!

Sounds like Boston would definitely be right up your alley! Hope you get the chance to visit soon. :-)

Wow. 39 things to do in Boston. I’m sure you were fulfilled exploring these sites

We definitely had an even bigger list than we could handle! :-)

Huge list of things to do in Boston. For me it was only for Harvard and MIT, but your post throws light on many other places which I did not went in my last month’s tour to Boston. Walking around the Beacon Hill might be my first choice to get a glimpse of oldest neighbourhood of US.

You would definitely enjoy a visit to Beacon Hill! It’s a gorgeous place.

My friend lives here and although I was never really partial to the New England States, I can say Boston is pretty amazing. I will say one thing you missed that you would totally love is the Mapparium in the Mary Baker Eddy Library! It’s a huge stained glass globe! Pretty neat actually. I want to go back and explore more of Boston though because I’m usually on there for a long layover. Great ideas!

It never would have occurred to me to plan a trip here, either, but I’m sure happy to sing its praises now! The Mapparium is one of my favorite under-the-radar exhibits I’ve seen in a long time.

We missed Boston on our last trip to America and reading this I am so gutted we did! I will definitely head back and visit this gorgeous city next time we are there ! Thanks for sharing!

All the more reason to plan another visit to the USA, right?!

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The top of my list for Boston would be to try a Wahlburger, I’ve seen Wahlburgers on TV and would love to try one. I visited Boston about 20 years ago and it didn’t exist then. The image you took of the Boston fireworks is spot on! I’m sure I’ve seen Arnold Arboretum is movies, maybe Legally Blonde?

There’s never a bad time for a burger!

Wow there is soo much to do! I think personally for me though I would want to do the freedom walk trail! Not only are you seeing amazing sites but learning about soo much history! Awesome write up!

Thanks, David! You definitely can’t go wrong with walking the Freedom Trail.

Oh my word, I had no idea there was so much to do in Boston! I’d only really heard of the big players such as MIT & Harvard and wanted to visit for those alone. It’s great to know there is so many other things to do there when I finally visit!

You definitely won’t run out of things to do, Vicki! :-)

I live in the Boston area and I loved this list. Sometimes I forget all the fun things there are to do here. Thanks! Glad you enjoyed our city!

It’s definitely easy to overlook our hometowns, right? You live in an amazing place!

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Hi Kate. We are driving into Boston for the day. Want to see as much as we can in one day. Where should be park our car for the day and do you recommend the hop on and off tour?? Thank you

For convenience, you can’t beat the Boston Common Garage–it’s located right under the park, and you’ll be in the heart of the city right after exiting the garage if you park there (the Common, Public Gardens, Downtown Crossing, several stops on the Freedom Trail, Beacon Hill, etc, are all right there).

I’d say the Hop On/Hop Off tour depends on your needs–we love to walk the city and don’t mind using the T (Boston’s subway system) to get around, so wouldn’t choose to use it with one day in Boston. However, if your goal is to see the most stops in the shortest amount of time it can be helpful. I’d recommend mapping out your top 5-10 things that you want to see in Boston and seeing how much walking that would be. If it looks untenable, consider the tour. :-)

I moved to Boston 5 years ago and have done everything on your list except two things. I just added those to my to-do list. Your list is spot on. Next time you visit, add walking the Rose Kennedy Greenway. It has a self guided tour . See the Seaport area too. Great views of the water, and lots of great restaurants. Lastly, for those who enjoy beer, there’s 4 breweries within walking distance. Night Shift, Harpoon, Trillium, and Commonwealth Brewery.

Great list, even for those of us who live in the Boston area. One of the best things about Boston is how well situated it is in the compact area of New England. Within an hour or two you can be in the mountains of NH, ME, or VT, the beaches of Cape Cod and the Islands, the splendor of Newport, RI, and its mansions and cliff walk, the rolling hills of the Berkshires in western Mass. with Tanglewood and other cultural attractions. There is so much to see and do – and easy to do a lot of it in a relatively short amount of time. And nobody beats our region of the country for breathtaking fall foliage!

Mt. Auburn Cemetery is a spectacularly pretty peaceful spot all year round. Great mix of history, great landscaping and even a fave with birders.

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Boston   Travel Guide

1-day Itinerary in Boston

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

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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21 BEST Things to Do in Boston [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Boston, Massachusetts!

Boston has as much history within its city limits as most states, and the city has long been on the bucket list of all those who have a fascination with the past.

It’s here you can venture to the birthplace of modern America and explore the nation’s first university. But beyond the landmarks and enchanting trails is a place of rich sporting roots, culture, and art.

Boston isn’t a tourist destination. Bold call, I know. It’s a city that needs to be lived in, and thus travellers should take every opportunity to explore as if they were a local.

Beyond the Freedom Trail, you’ll find a city that’s a joy to discover on foot. By doing so, you’ll explore streets and neighbourhoods that don’t end up in many travel guides.

Also check out this awesome 3 Days in Boston Itinerary before your trip!

Table of Contents

1) The Freedom Trail

2) isabella stewart gardner museum, 3) boston public garden, 4) franklin park zoo, 5) fenway park, 6) faneuil hall marketplace, 7) boston museum of fine arts, 8) the boston common, 9) boston tea party ships and museum, 10) the boston harbor, 11) uss constitution and bunker hill monument, 12) harvard university, 13) the north end, 14) boston public library, 15) new england aquarium, 16) duck tour, 17) boston public market, 18) john f. kennedy presidential library, 19) the back bay, 20) the boston harborwalk, 21) beacon hill, the best hostel in boston: hi boston, the best mid-range hotel in boston: boston hotel commonwealth, the best luxury hotel in boston: boston harbor hotel, the best things to do in boston.

Boston is an open-air reminder of the past. But what you’ll soon discover is there’s no shortage of gorgeous parks, excellent food, art and family fun.

Before we dive too deep though, we want to share a little budget tip we have to save some money while exploring Boston!

Pick yourself up a Boston CityPASS , which is essentially a discounted ticket that gets you entrance into many of the best attractions and activities in the city.

By buying the pass you’ll save 47% on the usual ticket prices, so it’s a big discount.

Let’s get started.

The Freedom Trail showcases the immense history of Boston Harbor, the site of the Boston Tea Party, the home of Paul Revere, the State House, and ancient ships.

The concentration of historic sites has few rivals in the United States, and you can see it all along the Freedom Trail.

The 2.5-mile path takes you through the heart of Boston, not only showcasing the city’s rich history but helping newcomers get their bearings.

With no elevation gain, it’s a breeze to walk along and could easily take under an hour. But with so many sites to see along the way, you’ll be taking regular breaks.

Begin at the Boston Common where you can pick up a map.

Your first stop will be the State House and the Old Granary Burying Ground, the resting place of John Hancock, Paul Revere, and Samuel Adams. You’ll continue on, passing Paul Revere’s house towards the Bunker Hill Monument.

It’s an incredible display of the past, but you’ll also discover much of downtown Boston from shops to restaurants and entertainment. Sign up for a guided tour or self-guided audio tour .

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is one of those rare places where the art is matched by the building’s beauty.

The gorgeous garden, impeccable architecture and eye-catching art are what make the museum one of the best things to do in Boston.

The museum was first developed by art aficionado Isabella Stewart in the 19th century.

The interior courtyard is something out of a fairytale with bright greens, blues, reds and oranges.

It’s a veritable palace with textiles, archways and, yes, incredible art. The mix makes it a must-see, even if you aren’t a big fan of art galleries.

As for the art itself, you’ll find 2,500 works, from sculptures and tapestries to furnishing and historic paintings.

• Location: 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115
• Opening hours: 11am to 5pm (W-F) 10am to 5pm (S-S)
• Site: https://www.gardnermuseum.org/

Read Next: Be sure to check out some of the best day trips from Boston !

Created towards the beginning of the 17th century, the Boston Public Garden has long been a fixture in local life.

Its old-time charm can still be seen today, despite receiving many facelifts through the decades.

The public garden is a pleasant place to go and escape the bustle of the Boston area.

Over the years, it has developed into a beautiful space, complete with almost 100 different plant species and ornate gardens that burst with colour from spring to fall.

If you’re looking for a romantic experience, the Boston Public Garden features a gorgeous lake.

Jump on board a swan boat and explore the waters alongside your skipper.

At the forefront of the Franklin Park Zoo’s mission is to inspire a love of nature and conserve our wild planet.

This helps separate the zoo from the run-of-the-mill zoos by allowing guests to learn more about the animals they see along the way.

There are several sections of the zoo to explore each separate into distinct habitats.

You’ll find grasslands and prairies home to wildebeests, lions and giraffes. There’s a tropical section where you’ll see crocodiles looming below the surface, along with hippos and monkeys.

If you love kangaroos, then you must see the Outback Trail, which also features New Zealand’s iconic kiwi bird.

Afterwards, explore the surrounding park or visit the nearby Arnold Arboretum.

If you have your Boston CityPASS , entrance is included!

• Location: 1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121
• Opening hours: 9am to 5pm (M-F) 9am to 6pm (S-S)
• Web: https://www.zoonewengland.org/franklin-park-zoo/

The home of one of America’s most storied sports franchises, Fenway Park, is a top Boston attraction.

The iconic stadium is renowned for its distinct shape, squished against the side of Lansdowne Street and as the home of the Green Monster.

From March to October, you’ll see fans from Boston and around the country converge on the stadium to watch the ball game.

Prior to the first pitch, street carts fire up and hot dogs are served in droves. Fenway Park quickly fills up, and the atmosphere captures your imagination.

If you can’t make it to a game, then embark on a walking tour of Fenway Park. This tour will showcase the history of the century-old stadium, the Boston Red Sox and even some of the original seats.

One of the best things to do in Boston when you’re feeling a little peckish is to head to the Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

It’s not just one marketplace either, in fact, it’s home to three markets that all offer something different for travellers.

The Faneuil Hall is along the Freedom Trail and has its own slice of American history. It was built in the 1740s and immediately designated as a public place.

The ground floor of the main hall is a market and once a place where significant figures gathered before the Revolutionary War.

To learn more, walk up to the fourth floor where you’ll find the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Museum.

The highlight of the marketplace, however, is the Quincy Market. Featuring dozens of food vendors enjoy a delicious lunch or stock up on artisan treats.

• Location: 1 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109
• Opening hours: 10am to 7pm (M-T) 10am to 9pm (F-Sat) 12pm to 6pm (Sun)
• Price: Free

Heading to NYC after Boston? Check out our 3 Days in New York City Itinerary !

Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is one of the nation’s most renowned art galleries. It harbors over 450,000 pieces that range from ancient artifacts, to captivating French Impressionist paintings and an impressive collection of historic and contemporary American art.

MOMA is Boston’s largest museum and a place that can easily take a full day to explore. But if you’re short on time, it’s simple to break it up into the eras or genres that take your interest.

These include relics, jewellery and tombs from ancient Egypt, manuscripts from Japan and China, along with your European classics from Van Gogh, Renoir and Monet.

Within the American Wing, you can take a trip back to the pre-Colombian era to see Modernist and Art déco work along the way.

• Location: 465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115
• Opening hours: 10am to 5pm (Thur, Sat, Sun) 10am to 10pm (Fri)
• Price: Adult $27 Child $10
• Web: https://www.mfa.org/

As the beginning of the Freedom Trail, the Boston Common is a popular starting point for many travellers. But it’s a worthy destination on its own and one worth enjoying for an hour or two.

Surrounded by highrises, the common is a beautiful urban green space and a place of peace among the city sprawl.

It’s one of the oldest public parks in the US and fittingly features a number of historic landmarks. These include the Central Burying Ground of 1756 and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

With spacious lawns, benches and even a wading pool, it’s a popular place to hang out in the summer. While in the winter, the Boston Common is fitted with an ice skating rink and is a magical spot to skate under the city lights.

It was here, along the Boston Harbor, that angry locals changed the course of history and set the United States on the path to independence.

On the 16th of December, 1773, city residents stormed the docks and threw tea into the water. What began as a protest on tax quickly turned into something much more.

I’ll leave the history lessons to your guides dressed in period costumes at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.

Here, you can board replicas of the original ships and, through a variety of fascinating displays and narration, learn all about that night and the months that followed.

The most memorable aspect of the experience, though, is when you can reenact that fateful night and dump your own tea into the harbor.

• Location: 306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210
• Opening hours: 10am to 5pm (Mon, Thur-Sun)
• Price: Adult $31.95 Child $23.95

Read Next: Looking for more US history? Be sure to check out our post on the best things to do in Washington, DC .

After all this time spent on historic ships but not getting out on the water, it’s time to explore the Boston Harbor.

Onboard the Odyssey you can cruise out into the harbor and see the beautiful skyline from a different perspective.

As you meander through the bay, you’ll cross paths with George and Castle islands on your way to the Boston Light. While at night, the towering buildings glisten against the water.

If you’re traveling to Boston from March to November, why not trade your cruise for a whale watching experience ?

Head out from downtown in search of humpback whales and dolphins with your knowledgeable guide providing ready to answer all your questions.

In a different part of the Boston Harbor is another ship-based experience. Near Bunker Hill lies the USS Constitution , which holds the nickname Old Ironsides.

It was built in 1797 and is the oldest commissioned ship in the nation. Today, the naval crew still helm the 2-centuries-old ship and it’s open for you to explore.

Going below deck, exploring Old Ironsides and learning about her experiences is one of the best things to do in Boston with kids.

But it doesn’t end there. On the other end of the pier is the ship’s museum. Enter to discover what life aboard the ship was like in the 18th century.

Finish up by walking to the 221-foot Bunker Hill Monument, which marks the spot of the first battle of the American Revolution.

• Location: Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA 02129
• Opening hours: 10am to 5pm (Mon -Sun)
• Price: Free, first come, first serve

Around 15 minutes from downtown Boston on the Red Line is the famous Harvard University.

Founded in 1636, it was the first university created in the United States. It has developed an international reputation and its hallowed grounds are a joy to explore.

Stepping out of the subway, you’ll find yourself at Harvard Square. Surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants, it harbors a unique atmosphere. There’s a sense of history and purpose among all the comings and goings.

Just a few steps to your right will be a gateway to the university, whose history sweeps you up the moment you enter.

The paths take you by centuries-old halls, past the John Harvard Statue to Harvard Yard on your way to several exceptional Harvard museums.

If you prefer a free guided tour, head to the Harvard Information Center .

Or get an in-depth guided tour with your Boston CityPASS .

Also known as Little Italy, Boston’s North End is a must-see neighborhood. It covers the speck of land that juts out into the harbor with the Charles River on the other side.

If you’ve completed the Freedom Trail, you would have seen the historic highlights of the North End, but be sure to return to experience its culinary brilliance.

The North End is one of the best places to eat in the city. There are almost 100 restaurants to choose between, all with their own flair and tasty treats.

But it isn’t all pizza and delicious pasta, you’ll find mouthwatering pastries at Mike’s Pastries and rows of charming cafes along Hanover Street.

In the Back Bay, the Boston Public Library is a place for history lovers and architectural aficionados.

The beautiful library was built in 1848 again in 1895. Upon opening, it became the United States’ first public library. You’ll find it on the edge of the green lawns of Copley Square.

After admiring its intricate facade of archways and towers, wander inside to find large paintings strewn across the hallowed walls, interior design inspired by Renaissance Revival and granite medallions placed along the entrance.

Continue on to explore the rest of the library, which also offers fun activities for the little ones.

You can also sign up for a free guided tour to learn all about the Boston Public Library.

• Location: 700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
• Opening hours: 9am to 8pm (Tue to Thur) 9am to 5pm (Fri-Sat)

If the little ones are growing restless, then bring them to one of the top Boston attractions. The New England Aquarium first opened in 1969 and is now home to over 550 marine species.

Entrance to the Aquarium is included with your Boston CityPASS , so you’ll save some money here too!

As you and the family wander around the aquarium, you’ll find coral reefs that are replicas of those found in the Caribbean. Floating around the coral are prismatic fish, eels, adorable turtles and fearsome sharks.

For an interactive experience, check out the Edge of the Sea exhibit. This allows you to touch sea creatures like urchins and starfish.

The aquarium is also home to harbor seal and whale watching tours. While you can learn all about nature at the resident IMAX Theater.

• Location: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
• Opening hours: 9am to 5pm (Mon-Fri) 9am to 6pm (Sat-Sun)
• Price: Adult $37 Child $28

The Boston Duck Tour is a quintessential thread in the fabric of the Massachusetts city. However, did you know they didn’t originate here, but instead in the Midwest?

This Boston tour did, though, take the experience to mainstream popularity and now it’s one of the most memorable Boston activities. The tours began in 1994. After starting with four, there are now 28 in service.

On this 80-minute tour , you’ll travel on the World War Two-style duck through the city’s streets on your to the Charles River. Sights include Bunker Hill, Newbury Street and Quincy Market.

After learning even more about Boston, the amphibious vehicle transitions as you enjoy beautiful views of both downtown and Cambridge from the water.

Alongside Faneuil Hall, the Boston Public Market is another way to shop for fresh produce. The indoor market operates year-round, every day of the week.

On the inside, you’ll discover around 30 producers and artisans from around New England. They’ll be selling fresh goods, handicrafts, tasty treats and delicious meals. All the products hail from the surrounding regions, with the items changing with the seasons.

Along with the rows of stalls, there are regular events, workshops and cooking classes. You can even join a tour of the market to learn about its humble beginnings and what’s on offer today.

The Boston Public Market, located at 100 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02108, is open Monday – Saturday, 8:00am – 6:00pm and Sunday 10:00am – 6:00pm.

Visiting more of the USA’s big cities? Check out this Chicago Travel Itinerary .

Celebrating the 35th President of the United States, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is an invaluable insight into the life of one of the most prominent figures in the 20th century.

The museum is a designated memorial of John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963. The museum opened in 1979 and features informative exhibits complete with memorabilia and photographs dedicated to his life and time in power.

Like many other presidential libraries, visitors will be able to relive JFK’s campaign trail, see what the Oval Office was like when he was President while learning more about First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and the rest of his family.

• Location: Columbia Point, Boston, MA 02125
• Opening hours: 10am to 4pm (Thur-Fri)
• Price: Adult $18 Child $10

Along the Charles River, Back Bay is another district that’s worth exploring in detail. On the banks of the Charles River, Back Bay has an old-time charm with a dense concentration of shops and restaurants that are aligned in a picturesque manner.

Back Bay is just west of downtown Boston and its urban planning was inspired by the streets of Paris. It has a sophisticated personality and a sense of beauty with small grass-soaked parks placed across the neighborhood.

Newbury Street runs through the center of Back Bay and presents travelers with some enticing shopping opportunities. Find upscale couturiers and jewelers among the cafe patios that are sent right from the Rue Cler.

Just steps away is the Public Garden, while at night, stick around for a performance at the Symphony Hall.

If you’re ever left wondering what to do in Boston, this next activity will be one to keep in your back pocket. The Boston Harborwalk is the perfect choice to fill in any gaps in the itinerary, as it is a lovely thing to do, day or night.

The city’s harborfront has seen many iterations since the 1600s. Once a bustling colonial port, the area had to be revitalized after the main port was moved further out into the bay.

Now the waterfront is a beautiful example of urban renewal and your leisurely stroll will bring you along the harbor through parks, by cafes and quiet residential streets.

The best section to walk is the North End. Here you’ll find a number of historic wharves, the Waterfront Park and the happening Seaport District.

Arguably the most beautiful neighborhood in Boston, Beacon Hill is one you’ll want to explore on foot. Located in South Boston, Beacon Hill has long been the locale of the wealthy, with the opulent brick homes showing just how wealthy.

Along the mossy cobblestone streets that make way for tree-lined brick paths. Above them is Greek Revival architecture. For the best of them, head to Louisburg Square, where the ornate homes all face the leafy gardens.

Visit the Nichols House Museum to learn all about life in Beacon Hill from the 17th to 19th century. The museum tells the stories of the uber-rich residents, complete with period furnishing and art.

Where to Stay in Boston

Well, there you have it, the best things to do in Boston. But before you pack your bags, let’s look at some of the top spots to stay.

At HI Boston , you’ll find yourself just minutes away from downtown and the beginning of the Freedom Trail. The hostel offers clean and modern amenities with all the things you need for a comfortable hostel stay.

In Fenway Kenmore, the Boston Hotel Commonwealth is just steps from the iconic stadium and only the Charles River separates you from Cambridge.

Your hotel room comes with a spa service, cable TV and a separate living area to relax. Guests will also have access to onsite dining and a fitness center.

At Rowes Wharf, the Boston Harbor Hotel is a five star experience with memorable views over the Boston Harbor.

Guest rooms come with a smart TV, coffee machines, mini bar and some offer a separate seating area. You’ll also have award-winning onsite dining and swimming pool.

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Great post! I’m planning a trip to Boston soon and this was really helpful. I’m looking forward to exploring the city and trying out some of the activities you mentioned. Thanks for the tips!

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The 36 Best And Worst Tourist Attractions In Boston, According To Bostonians

We asked Bostonians what are the "must-see" attractions for tourists and which ones are just a tourist trap! Here's what they said:

Want to know which Boston tourist attractions are worth the hype and which are worth skipping?

No one knows a city better than its locals. And Boston is no different. As tourism reaches a high ahead of the Boston Marathon filling the city with vivacious energy, families are eager to explore the city.

Some tourist attractions are worth the time, money, or hassle to observe and interact with, and others are just plain anticlimactic and disappointing. Such as this tourist attraction which was ranked on of the most disappointing in the state! We accumulated a healthy slew of answers from Bostonians to provide you with trusted recommendations:

Must-see: these Boston tourist attractions are “worth the hype”

• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum*
• Walden Pond
• Fenway Park and Fenway tour
• Any lobster roll
• USS Constitution
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Public Library
• Public Garden
• Custom House Observation Tower
• Old Town Trolley
• Whale watching tours
• Codzilla boat
• African Meeting House
• Old South Meeting House
• Bova’s for cannoli
• Freedom Trail
• Day trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Kennebunkport, Maine
• Boston Children’s Museum
• Institute of Contemporary Art

*The most popular “must-see” attraction is the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum .

Skip: these attractions are “not worth it”

• Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market*
• Bunker Hill Monument
• Segway tours
• Newbury Street
• Copley Place
• Plymouth Rock
• South Station
• All pizza spots

*The attraction most recommended to be skipped is Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. Instead, Bostonians recommend a nice meal from the neighboring North End .

There were also a few responses that stirred up a heated debate. Some Bostonians voted the Swan Boat, New England Aquarium, Boston Tea Party Museum, Cheers, Museum of Science, and Seaport neighborhood a “must-see” attraction, while other vetoed and said they are worth skipping. Of course, it always depends on the season, what your interests are, and how much time and money you have. But Boston is always a beautiful place to visit-even on a budget!

Check out some of our favorite free things to do !

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30 Must-See Attractions in Boston

Freelance Writer

Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States , and remnants of its rich history – and role in founding the nation – are still easy to find today while wandering around the city streets.

One of the most wonderful things about Boston is that it is very walkable, making many of these must-visit attractions best seen on foot. Even if you’re only visiting for a few days, you should still be able to fit in lots of the places that have helped shape Boston into one of the most amazing, and beautiful, cities in America.

Boston Common and Public Garden

Natural Feature

The Boston Common and Public Garden lie next to each other and together make one of the largest green spaces in the downtown area . The garden features walking paths, statues, flowers and willow trees dripping over a quaint pond. Feed the ducks, and ride a swan boat. Alternatively, have a picnic near the hundreds of blooming tulips in the spring.

The Freedom Trail

Historical Landmark

Museum of Fine Arts

Isabella stewart gardner museum.

Building, Museum

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Old North Church

Fenway Park

Stadium, Park

Faneuil Hall

New England Aquarium

Aquarium, Theater, Museum

Boston Waterfront

Architectural Landmark

The Boston waterfront offers spectacular views of the city skyline, for free! It is protected along the harbor, so take advantage as it is open to the public. The Harborwalk is currently 38 miles (61.1 kilometers), and when complete, it will be 47mi (75.6km), stretching from East Boston to the Neponset River. See the best views by starting near the New England Aquarium and following the walk to the front of the John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse.

Charles River Esplanade

Another walk in the city is along the Charles River Esplanade. The approximate 3mi (4.8km) leafy path offers views of Cambridge from the Boston side of the Charles River. Walk, jog or bike along the trails with the locals, or rent kayaks and paddleboats to see the river up close. Also, check out the Hatch Memorial Shell for events.

USS Constitution Museum

Old state house, boston tea party ships and museum.

Boston Public Library

Beacon hill.

Museum of Science

Museum, Park

Newbury Street

Rose fitzgerald kennedy greenway.

The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway was once a highway that ran through the city. After the Big Dig, the 15-acre (six-hectare) area was repurposed to become public space. It now features greenery, walking paths, public art and food trucks. Occasionally, there are concerts or events, so check the calendar .

Samuel Adams Boston Brewery

With intelligent and witty tour guides, the Samuel Adams Boston Brewery tour provides a chance to view the brewery process first-hand. Afterward, you can sample specialty malts and smell whole-leaf noble hops. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the Sam Adams : brewer, patriot and cousin of President John Adams.

Massachusetts State House

Building, Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Skywalk Observatory

Boston Symphony Orchestra

Concert Hall

Harpoon Brewery

If you’re a fan of great beer and pretzels, Harpoon Brewery is a must-visit. Grab a beer on draft in the open beer hall, or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the brewery to learn more about the making of the local brew.

Underground at Ink Block

Art Gallery

Home to Boston’s first outdoor mural project, the Underground at Ink Block was created in 2017 in the South End . It is home to more than a dozen large-scale street-art pieces. Working with MassDOT, National Development and Street Theory Gallery, the city transformed the area under the I-91 overpass into a small park and recreational area. It’s open daily and also plays host to several summertime events, including yoga, basketball and food-truck festivals.

Boston Duck Tours

It can be hard to see everything Boston has to offer, so to see as much as possible, participate in one of the city’s famous sightseeing tours. One option is the Boston Duck Tours , an 80-minute ride around the city in a replica World War II-era amphibious landing vehicle. The daily excursion, guided by quirky ConDUCKtours, will take you to a variety of different historic landmarks before taking a 20-minute trip around the Charles River. If you want to have a little more independence on your tour, check out one of Boston’s hop-on, hop-off rides. These trolley tours will lead you around the city and give you the chance to get off or on at a variety of locations. If you get off, you can get back on at any time. Recommended by Garrett Callahan .

Walk Boston’s Black Heritage Trail

Similar to the Freedom Trail, Boston’s Black Heritage Trail explores the 19th- and 20th-century history of Boston’s black community. The trail, which extends around 1.5mi (2.4km) and mainly travels through the Beacon Hill neighborhood, hits 14 landmarks, such as the African Meeting House, Abiel Smith School, Robert Gould Shaw Memorial and other parts of the Underground Railroad in Boston. Also, check out the Museum of African American History , located near the Massachusetts State House, or take a tour from the National Park Service. Recommended by Garrett Callahan.

Boston Harbor Islands

Boston has a total of 34 harbor islands located just off the city’s coastline, and many of them are available for public access. During the warmer months (it varies by island), catch a public ferry to the open islands, where you can walk around, camp, check out one of the historic sites or view local wildlife. For those more interested in a guided tour, Boston Harbor Cruises has various water excursions, including whale-watching, lighthouse tours and much more. Recommended by Garrett Callahan.

Copley Square

Located in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood , Copley Square is a bustling yet charming city center with shopping, sightseeing and beautiful architecture. Some must-see sights include the historic Boston Public Library (Central Branch) as well as the Trinity Church (a grand Episcopal church erected between 1872 and 1877). The finish line for the Boston Marathon sits steps away on Boylston Street while Newbury Street, with high-end dining and shopping, is only a block away. While you’re here, take a picture in front of the famous Tortoise and Hare statue, based on the well-known fable and dedicated to the Boston Marathon . Recommended by Garrett Callahan.

Parker's Restaurant

Relax with dinner at Parker’s Restaurant at the Omni Parker House, located in Downtown. The restaurant, which serves classic New England food, is the birthplace of the Boston cream pie . It’s here where Malcolm X worked as a busser and John F Kennedy supposedly proposed to Jackie . Also, across the street is a historic graveyard where Paul Revere and Samuel Adams are buried. End your evening with a nightcap at 21st Amendment , jm Curley or Bostonia Public House . Recommended by Garrett Callahan.

Dana Forsythe contributed additional reporting to this article .

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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Boston Itinerary

Last Updated on September 3, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

As one of the oldest cities in the country, Boston is filled with history. It’s a mash-up of cobblestoned streets and historic buildings with modern skyscrapers. There are a few places you cannot miss while spending a few days in Boston, as well as some lesser-known parts of the city we’ll cover here.

Boston has something to offer everyone, from American history to esteemed universities to excellent museums and fantastic food (there’s more than clam chowder!).

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Boston?

With 2 days in Boston, you’re just scratching the surface but you can definitely see the highlights (particularly on the Freedom Trail) of a typical trip.

Most of the city’s main attractions are clustered together, so you could see a lot in 2 days, but you’re also missing out on some cool parts that make the city unique.

If you have 3 days, you’re in good shape to see all the top historic stops as well as some lesser-known sites. You’ll be able to strike a balance between visiting historic landmarks and more trendy neighborhoods.

If you’re lucky enough to have 4 days, you can see more of the city at your leisure or use the fourth day to take a day trip to somewhere nearby – anywhere from quirky Salem to historic Lexington & Concord. There is no shortage of historic sites and beautiful nature just outside Boston. 

Getting To & Around Boston 

You’re most likely arriving in Boston through the Logan International Airport. You can easily hail a cab (or Uber or Lyft), take the GO Boston Shuttle, pre-book a transfer or use public transportation to reach downtown.

If you’re visiting from another city or town in New England or even some city further south such as Philadelphia , Washington, DC or New York , you might arrive on a train or bus into South Station. Make sure to find out which train or bus transfers you need to make depending on where you’re coming from. You can view schedules here .

The Massachusetts capital is a very walkable city and it’s not actually that big. In fact, one of the best things to do in Boston is walk the Freedom Trail. Many of the most historic landmarks are located near each other.

Boston is also well-connected via a subway system, known locally as the T. You can easily get around the city using this if you want to reach somewhere a bit further afield.

There are single-ride tickets available along with day passes, so make sure to think about how much you will use the transit system to buy the ticket that makes the most sense for you.

Also, one benefit of getting a day pass ticket is that you can also use that for passage on the ferry that goes from the USS Constitution in Charlestown to Long Wharf near the New England Aquarium.

Alternatively, there is the Hop On/Hop Off Trolley Tour that provides a convenient way to see the city. It is also included in the Boston Go City Pass , which will save you money on entrance fees to many of the paid attractions listed here.

2, 3 or 4-Day Boston Itinerary

If you’re spending a few days in the Massachusetts capital, then there are several guided tours that you can take to get an overview of the city such as this walking tour or this bike tour .

Day 1 – Freedom Trail, Museums, Quincy Market & More

Walk the freedom trail.

This 2.5-mile trail covers many of the historical highlights in Boston. You’ll want to dedicate a few solid hours to walking the trail. You can opt to walk the entire thing or a portion of it.

There are also guided tours available such as this 2.5-hour walking tour , which could be helpful for providing context to the landmarks as you pass them. Here are the landmarks you can expect to see:

• Boston Common & Boston Public Garden
• Massachusetts State House
• Park Street Church
• Granary Burying Grounds
• Boston Latin School/Benjamin Franklin Statue
• Old South Meeting House
• Old State House
• Faneuil Hall
• Site of the Boston Massacre

Paul Revere House

• Old North Church
• USS Constitution
• Bunker Hill Monument

You could spend however long you’d like walking the Freedom Trail and note that it doesn’t cost anything to walk the trail, but there are generally entrance fees for the various sites.

Depending on how long you want to spend, take the time to walk by these places and pick one or two that interest you to plan to visit those places.

With that in mind, plan to spend 2-3 hours on the Freedom Trail. Get an early start to beat the crowds and – if you’re traveling in the summer – to beat the heat, as well.

The landmarks along the Freedom Trail are incredibly well marked and the trail itself is outlined in red brick along the pavement. Because it’s not a circular route and it is a bit of walking, a great option could be to start at the Boston Common and end over at the USS Constitution.

From here, you can grab the Charlestown Ferry to Long Wharf – this gives you an excellent view of the Boston Skyline, allows you to take a load off your feet and is an affordable way to get out on the water!

Quincy Market & Boston Public Market

After a morning of seeing all of the sites along the Freedom Trail, walk only a few minutes from Long Wharf to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market.

Quincy Market is where old and new seamlessly merge. Here you can find hundreds of shops, both inside and outside the building. The market was established in 1825 and spans three buildings: Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market.

This can be to grab a bite to eat or do some souvenir shopping. The market is especially charming during the winter months when it’s decorated for the holidays. Quincy Market was named a National Historic Landmark in 1966. 

It’s worth noting that Quincy Market can be a bit expensive and very popular with visitors. To visit a market hall nearby that caters a bit more to locals along with tourists, then walk about five minutes to Boston Public Market.

There are lots of food stalls here that sell great local specialities and international fare – if you’re looking for some seafood, head to Red’s . We loved their oyster po’boy!

Not far from Boston Public Market, you can also take the time to walk through Boston’s Holocaust Memorial. This is a moving exhibit that is particularly powerful and consists of 6 different glass towers etched with 6 million numbers to commemorate the 6 million murdered Jews – it is free to walk through.

Boston Tea Party & Ships Museum

About a 20-minute walk from the market, end your day of sightseeing with a visit to the Boston Tea Party and Ships Museum.

The museum is chock-full of historical experts, interactive exhibits, full-scale replica sailing vessels, and historic artefacts to make this monumental event in America’s history come to life. You can pre-book tickets here .

If you have some time to spare, you can watch an award-winning documentary in Minutemen Theatre that depicts the events that led up to the American Revolution. 

Next to the museum, don’t miss the Observation Deck at Independence Wharf, either, where you can get excellent views of the harbor.

Go to a Red Sox game

Go see the “Green Monster” for yourself during your visit to Boston. Even those who wouldn’t consider themselves baseball fans will enjoy seeing a game at Fenway Park.

It’s been the home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912, making it the oldest stadium in Major League Baseball. If you don’t have time to see a game, you can still take a guided tour of Fenway. It’s a great way to wrap up your first day of sightseeing in Boston. 

If it’s not the season for baseball or you don’t care to go to a game, then use this time to stroll along the Charles River Esplanade or, perhaps, visit the nearby Boston Museum of Fine Arts. You could also simply relax in the tranquil surroundings of Back Bay Fens Park.

Day 2 – Chinatown, Downtown & North End

Begin your second day in the city center again, taking the time to explore Boston’s Chinatown. As the only Chinatown in New England and one of the most densely populated areas in the city, this is an excellent place to get to know a bit of international Boston and gain an insight into the East and Southeast Asian communities here.

Because it’s the morning, make sure to pop into one of the countless bakeries you will find in the city to pick up a Hong Kong-style egg tart or a moon cake. Alternatively, if you’re feeling a bit more hungry, then consider having a dim sum brunch at one of the many dumpling houses you can find here.

Chinatown comprises a few city blocks, but there is a lot packed in here so keep an open mind (and hungry stomach) as you wander around and explore.

Boston Common & Public Garden

You might’ve already passed through Boston Common if you walked the entirety of the Freedom Trail. If you didn’t stop for long then, it’s worth your time to dedicate a couple of hours to really enjoying the park.

Boston Common is America’s oldest public park having been established in 1634 and is located in the Beacon Hill neighbourhood of Boston.

Today, the park is filled with fountains, picnic tables, and green spaces for visitors to lounge and enjoy the day. Make sure to stroll through the adjacent Public Garden, as well, to truly enjoy this urban green space.

Trinity Church

This historic stone church in Copley Square sits squarely in the middle of downtown’s towering skyscrapers. It’s considered by the American Association of Architects as one of the top 10 buildings in the country.

The parish located there today was founded in 1733, which is more than 150 years before the church was built in 1877. You can enter Trinity Church on your own or schedule a tour with a knowledgeable tour guide to learn more about the church’s history. 

It looks striking as it’s sandwiched between modern skyscrapers like the John Hancock Tower and the Prudential Tower and really symbolises Boston’s mingling of old and new.

Boston Public Library

After taking in the gorgeous Trinity Church, walk a few minutes over to the impressive Boston Public Library. While visiting a library may not seem like the most interesting of places to visit on a vacation, this is a gorgeous, historic building that is actually completely free to visit.

The beautiful Rennaissance building is a work of art to explore and there are also atmospheric study rooms and lovely facades to take in. There is also a cafe and tea room as well as some incredible murals and tranquil reading rooms.

After exploring the downtown area of Boston, hop on the Orange Line from Back Bay to Haymarket to explore the North End neighbourhood in a bit more detail. Particularly, set your sites to the Paul Revere House.

The Paul Revere House was the former home of the famous Founding Father Paul Revere. He played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, noted in history books for his famous “midnight ride” to warn colonists that the British were approaching Boston.

The home was built in 1680 and is downtown Boston’s oldest building. Inside, the home is set up to mimic what it would have looked like while Revere lived there. In fact, 90% of the structure today is original material, including doors, windows, flooring, and internal wall material.

You can pop into this Boston museum for a self-guided tour or try to time your visit to see colonial reenactors demonstrate key moments of America’s history. 

Explore North End

Though you no doubt saw a lot of the historic sites and monuments in the North End neighborhood while you walked the Freedom Trail on your first day, take the time on your second day to really explore and get to know this interesting area.

The heart of Boston’s Italian community, this district is filled with great restaurants, cafes, delis and bakeries where you can indulge in some Italian delicacies.

Mike’s Pastry , for example, is a North End institution that has been there since 1946 and is known for its cannoli and lobster tails. The line is almost always out the door, but it does move quickly.

North End is a great place to grab an Aperol Spritz and relax after a long day of exploring, but if you want a more curated experience, consider hopping on a food tour to try some of the best of what this area has to offer.

Day 3 – Boston’s Museums

If you’re fortunate enough to be seeing Boston in 3 days, then consider spending the 3rd taking in a few of the city’s incredible museums.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library 

This exceptional museum is dedicated to the life and accomplishments of U.S. President John F. Kennedy.

Here, you’ll wander the permanent exhibit that uses large-screen projections, interactive displays, original artefacts, and re-mastered films to learn more about the former president’s life. Consider reserving tickets online in advance to save you time at the door. You can also opt for a guided tour.

A visit to the JFK Presidential Museum & Library is a great way to kick off your second day. 

The Museum of Bad Art

You’ve probably never been to a museum that focuses on bad art. The Museum of Bad Art houses “art too bad to be ignored” and is a highlight worth adding to your time in Boston. It’s the world’s only museum dedicated to bad art that began in the basement of a private home.

The museum has since grown into a local favorite that shines the spotlight on quality bad art. It’s a quirky and fun addition to your Boston trip, especially if you happen to be planning a 3-day itinerary. 

Institute of Contemporary Art

If you’re looking to stay a little bit closer to the center of Boston, then this is an excellent museum choice over the first two options. Boston is a city that’s so full of history has some great historical museums, but it also has notable art museums like the Institute of Contemporary Art.

Here you’ll find both permanent and rotating exhibits featuring contemporary artists and their work. The museum is located in a beautiful building on the waterfront overlooking Boston Harbor, so you can also take in the view. It’s recommended that you book tickets in advance.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

This museum is known for its beautiful architecture and courtyard garden. It’s a great museum to visit if you want one that is a little less crowded than other larger museums in the city. Beginning in the late 1800s, Isabella started collecting rare books, manuscripts, and pieces of art to fill her home.

Over the course of her worldwide travels, she acquired art like Rembrandt’s Self Portrait and Titian’s Europa. The museum as it stands today was built in 1901. She lived on the fourth floor and spent the remainder of her life arranging the art throughout its halls.

It’s a unique museum that’s a quiet way to spend the afternoon. If this or any of the other museums don’t interest you, there are plenty of other museums in Boston to take in.

For instance, the Museum of Science – located in a building overlooking the Charles River, is an excellent place to visit if you happen to be traveling with children.

Day 4 – Lexington & Concord, Salem or Cape Cod Day Trip

Lexington and concord.

Lexington and Concord is arguably the most famous site of the Revolutionary War. For history buffs, this is a great way to round out your 4 days in Boston. It’s where the first shots of the war were fired.

To reach Lexington, you’ll take the subway and bus for a total travel time of about 45 minutes before getting off at Lexington Battle Green. You can reach Concord by taking the MBTA directly from Boston.

Lexington Green is a good starting point for your visit. This small town is home to the Belfry that sounded the alarm in 1775 to call the militia to fight. Here, you’ll also find John Hancock’s childhood home or Buckman’s Tavern. In Concord, make sure you visit the Old North Bridge.

You can also find Walden Pond, made famous by writer Henry David Thoreau, and Louisa May Alcott’s “Orchard House”. There’s a lot to see during a day trip to Lexington and Concord, so make sure you leave early in the day to give yourself ample time.

You’ve most likely heard of Salem, Massachusetts due to its famous 1692 witch trials. Salem is only about 30 minutes from Boston, so it’s an easy day trip. You can easily reach it by taking the commuter train that connects the cities, a high-speed ferry or an organised day tour .

During your day in Salem, make sure to visit the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Peabody Essex Museum, the Old Town Hall, and the Witch House. You can end your day with a visit to Winter Island Park and Lighthouse.

As you might’ve guessed, one of the best times of year to visit Salem is Halloween. The little town comes to life with spooky decorations.

Without a doubt, Cape Cod is beautiful, especially in summer. This stretch of coastline is full of charming towns, great seafood, and relaxing beaches.

Cape Cod is about 3 hours from Boston by car, which tends to be a little long for a day trip. Instead, you can take the Cape Cod Fast Ferry from Boston to Provincetown, which is the largest town on the Cape.

In Provincetown, you can enjoy the local art galleries, lounge on the beach, and walk around and enjoy the quaint homes and shops.

If you have more than 4 days, spending more than one day on the Cape is a relaxing way to bring your time in the area to a close.

Where to Stay in Boston

Harborside Inn – This 3-star hotel in downtown Boston is a great choice for mid-range travelers to the Massachusetts capital. There are several great rooms to choose from, a wonderful location for exploring the city and plenty of other amenities to enjoy.

Omni Boston Hotel – If you’re looking for luxury while in Boston, then this sophisticated hotel is a great option. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer and an unbeatable location for exploring all this historic city has to offer.

HI Boston – Those visiting Boston on a budget will love this backpacker’s hostel in the center of the city. They have a range of both dorms and private rooms on offer along with other perks and great common areas for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Boston hotels!

The perfect itinerary for Boston is the one that’s packed with what excites you most. If you’re a history buff, you’re going to love it here. Foodies, explorers, and everyone in between will find something to love in Boston.

Are you planning a trip to Boston? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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