Discover the best things to do in Boston! Immerse yourself in the rich history, cultural wonders, and vibrant experiences the Hub has to offer. Plan your visit with our comprehensive guide. Welcome to the heart of New England, where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly – Boston. In this guide, we unveil the diverse array of activities that make the city a must-visit destination. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or foodie, Boston has something for everyone.
Best Things to Do in Boston
Embark on a journey back in time at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. Relive the pivotal moment in American history and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits. Witnessing the reenactment of the tea toss is an experience unlike any other.
1 – Step back in time at the USS Constitution museum
Take a step back in time and experience what life was at sea over 200 years ago at the USS Constitution Museum.
Not only are there fascinating exhibits and endless artifacts here, but visitors will also have the opportunity to get interactive by scrubbing the decks, furling a sail, and even firing a cannon!
The heroic ship, anchored in front of the Boston National Historical Park, continues to symbolize honor and pride to the country. All through the battles, the ship had never been defeated, so gained its nickname “Old Ironsides” for not having much damage.
Visit the ship for free and listen to stories from active duty navy sailors to know more about the historic journey of this “oldest commissioned warship afloat” in the world.
2 – Visit the iconic Fenway Park
Fenway Park, also known as America’s most beloved ballpark, is home to the legendary Red Sox. Watching a game is a unique experience, but you can also visit the fantastic stadium.
Baseball heroes such as Ted Williams and Babe Ruth have walked on its grounds, and now visitors can too!
With one-hour guided tours available, sports fanatics can explore the dugout, change rooms and so much more of this 37,731-seat stadium!
The first baseball stadium in the US, Fernway has been known for its relatively high (37 feet) green painted wall called “Green Monster.” Make sure to experience sitting on its seats when you visit.
3 – Race against the clock in a scavenger game
Sick of snail-paced walking tours? Want to take your vacation up a notch? A scavenger game is a fun, fast-paced, and interactive way for tourists and locals to explore the Boston area.
All you need is a smartphone and a sense of adventure as you solve clues, complete challenges around the city, answer trivia questions, and race against the clock to win!
Check out the city’s amazing cultural and historical sites and discover hidden attractions near Boston Common, Freedom Trail or Boston Harbor.
Race with your friends or take the adventure on your own, you can choose the right game for you. Start at your own cue and complete the obstacles while you learn the city’s history.
4 – Walk the historic Freedom Trail
If you’re looking for things to do in Boston then walking the Freedom Trail through the Boston National Historical Park is an absolute must for first-time visitors.
Follow the red line for 2.5 miles and see 16 national historic sites along the way. You’re literally walking into history!
Walk past the Boston Massacre Site, a place that saw the clash between Bostonians and the Redcoats that led to the tragic death of 5 civilians. The path leads you to parks, museums, churches and historic markers to name a few, telling the great story of America from the revolutionary war to the present.
There are many different kinds of guided tours available, including pub crawls and food and history tours. All of these are led by friendly guides eager to share insights into Boston’s unique past.
5 – Get incredible views from Bunker Hill
Stop by another historical landmark at Bunker Hill, a sight that saw a battle between the Red Coats and the Patriots during the American Revolutionary War.
Check out the towering Bunker Hill monument located on Breed’s Hill, built in 1825, on the 50th anniversary of the battle taking place. The monument measures a staggering 221 feet into the air and is made up completely out of quarried granite.
If you’re up for it, climb the 294 steps to the top for wide views of the Boston Harbor, and the city!
To view paintings, drawings, and other relics from the Battle at Bunker Hill, make sure to step inside the Bunker Hill Museum, directly across from the monument.
6 – Glide across the water on a Boston Harbor sightseeing cruise
Want to be on the water, relax in the sunshine and learn about the city around you … all at the same time? Then look no further!
Sightseeing cruises (as well as speed boat tours) take guests all around the Boston harbor, past a number of famous landmarks along the way.
The harbor speaks of Boston’s rich history and seafaring legends. On a 90-minute cruise, gaze at famous landmarks as you learn about their historic significance. See the country’s oldest functioning lighthouse and the Ship of the State, USS Constitution.
Listen to heroic tales about the seafarers and navy soldiers. If you’re interested in war and politics, you can learn about the Boston Tea Party, a protest that helped start the American Revolution.
7 – Fill your belly on a North End food tour!
Feeling peckish? An array of delicious treats await in Boston’s oldest neighborhood, North End.
Known as Boston’s Little Italy, North End has been home to Italian settlers since the 1900s. You can eat all your favorite Italian dishes here without leaving the country.
Stroll through the quiet area of Beacon Hill and admire the stunning architecture while a local guide lures you to clam chowder, fresh pizza, cannolis, meats, cheeses, and so much more.
Along the way, pick up some bread from long-standing bakery businesses that have been serving the neighborhood freshly baked goods for over a century. Family-run bakeshops here have interesting stories that your guide might be able to share with you.
North End Pizza Tours will take you around the city’s oldest neighborhood and show you some of the most important heritage sites. Along the way, you’ll dine on award-winning pizza and even visit a chocolatier!
8 – Immerse yourself in American history at the JFK Presidential Library and Museum
Hailing from none other than Boston itself, the 35th President of the United States carries as great (and as tragic) a reputation as any.
This insightful museum has been curated to honor John F. Kennedy’s memory and to teach people about all the ways he sought to better the world around him.
Permanent exhibits include artifacts and photographs from JFK’s life as a young high school student to his presidential election in 1960 and inauguration.
Discover the gifts that the White House received from over 100 Heads of State from around the world. These include a gold purse from the king of Morocco given to the First Lady.
9 – See the sights on a hop-on-hop-off trolley tour
Short on time? Don’t feel like planning multiple itineraries? Then a hop-on-hop-off trolley tour is a way to go!
Not only is it quick and convenient, but the double-decker bus also makes stops at Boston’s top attractions including the USS ‘Constitution’, the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, Fenway Park, and many more.
Some tours offer up to 15 stops that you can see in about two hours if you want. It’s a great way to see all the attractions that play an important part in Boston’s history.
If you decide to take more time in your favorite spot, just hop on to the next bus when you’re ready.
10 – Sit inside one of the most important buildings in the country, the Trinity Church
Step inside and marvel at the historic beauty of Trinity Church to learn about its architectural design, which helped create a foundation for what American Art and Architecture would look like in the coming years.
The story goes that the parish had existed approximately 150 years before the church building was completed. However, due to fires destroying the previous church buildings, the leaders of the organized group found Trinity Church and decided to call it the new home of their parish.
Considered one of the top 10 buildings in the U.S. the church is open every day for anyone to enter, and enjoy mass or appreciate the architecture, stained glass windows, and murals inside. Is without a doubt a mandatory stop on any Boston city tour.
11 – Explore the coveted Harvard & MIT campuses
Explore the campus of two of the nation’s most prestigious universities – Harvard and MIT, known worldwide for their notable alumni, rigorous academic programs, and research breakthroughs.
With multiple stops and sights to see on both campuses, make sure to stop by the Harvard Art Museum, showcasing a variety of art pieces from the middle ages to the present day, from Europe and the U.S. It’s also the university’s oldest museum.
The Harvard Museum of Natural History is another museum not to miss that houses a variety of research discoveries brought to the public covering zoology, mineralogy, herbaria, and geology.
Lastly, the MIT Museum displays a fascinating collection of advanced technology in various forms such as technological art displays, artificial intelligence inventions, holograms, robotics, and more.
12 – Visit the famous Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard is famous across the country and it’s not so hard to see why! Visitors can tour the island, explore Edgartown, and see the Gay Head Cliffs, all in one hassle-free tour.
There is a selection of stunning beaches to plonk down on, shopping boutiques to browse and restaurants to grab a bite.
The island got its name from the wild vines that explorer Bartholomew Gosnold found on the property in the 1600s. You can still find some of them there at present but there’s no actual vineyard.
Learn more about the history of the place, as you discover the treasures of the island. See the peculiar Victorian cottages, historic lighthouses, beautiful beaches and vibrant gardens.
13 – Learn about the witch trials in Salem!
If you’re after a day trip full of mystery and intrigue, this ought to do the trick.
Besides Salem’s obvious association with the Salem witch trials, tours to this spooky city also introduce travelers to the town of Marblehead and the birthplace of the American Navy.
The notorious witch trials in 1692 led to the execution of 19 innocent people. The Salem witch hunts were part of a long history of witch hysteria in Europe during the 1400s.
Why not see it for yourself if witches are for real on a ghost tour for a night of adventure, as you learn the history and legends surrounding Salem?
While you can easily rent some wheels yourself, guided tours are also available, with options for bus, boat or car travel.
14 – Feel the music intimately at a Candlelight Concert
Creating an aura of close connection and magical beauty is the globally known Candlelight Concerts, which have arrived in Boston and host a number of amazing performances to check out.
Make plans to listen to a classical tribute of Beyonce’s biggest hits, Radiohead, Queen, and Fleetwood Mac, plus a few classical artists.
Are you visiting during the holidays? Consider elevating the Christmas spirit by attending a candlelight concert that performs The Nutcracker.
To purchase tickets and see the full list of performers, including other must-see performances taking place in some of the best venues in Boston, make sure to head over to their website.
15 – Step into the world and mind of an artist
Elevate your perception of art and visit the Lighthouse ArtSpace Boston & Immersive Art Exhibition, an experiential space where you’ll literally find yourself standing in the middle of the details of some of the finest paintings in art.
Step inside large rooms with walls filled with 360º projected images, and moving elements, along with a beautiful soundtrack to help you fully get into the mind of the artist.
View large-scale paintings from Monet and his “Impression Sunrise”, and Klimt and his work of art “Danaë”.
Check the calendar of the art space to confirm the dates of your ideal immersive experience.
16 – See wild animals at the Franklin Zoo
The Franklin Zoo stretches across 72 acres and is home to a staggering 220 species of wild animals. Get up close and personal with monkeys, gorillas, hippos, lions, giraffes and many more.
Check out animals from various habitats, such as ring-tailed lemurs from tropical forests and zebras from Savannah, and different birds from around the world and see migratory birds from Australia called budgerigars or “budgies” and colorful butterflies in spring. You can see some of these amazing creatures in winter too.
Bring the youngsters who are sure to enjoy the live feedings and the Children’s Zoo where they play and take on their own adventure and imagination. If time’s limited, consider booking your Franklin Park Zoo tickets online to skip the lines.
17 – Take a ferry and explore Cape Cod
Nature lovers, listen up — Cape Cod is known for its beautiful blue waters and stunning scenery. Take a road trip for less than two hours or ride a ferry to explore this hook-shaped peninsula facing the Atlantic Ocean.
Spend the day exploring the gorgeous beaches, eating at the restaurants, shopping at local boutiques and admiring the art galleries.
Learn about the European settlers and how explorers, pilgrims and fishermen participated in the rich history of the cape.
Bring binoculars and spot some migratory birds at the Cape Cod National Seashore, an ideal destination for birdwatching during spring and fall.
While you’re in that neck of the woods, make a detour to the charming city of Provincetown.
18 – Go whale-watching!
Luckily for us, whale sightings along the New England coast are a rather regular occurrence! The warmer months — May through to October — are prime times for spotting these gentle giants.
Hop on a high-speed catamaran and sail towards the Stellwagen Bank, an over 800 square miles of open ocean declared as a national marine sanctuary in 1992.
Spot humpbacks and critically endangered whales, as well as flocks of seabirds, dolphins, and other marine species in one of America’s underwater parks.
Whale-watching cruises usually last for about three or four hours, so be sure to slap on some SPF and bring a bottle of water.
19 – Zip around town on a bike tour
Ride around Boston for a few hours on a bike tour and explore all of Boston’s historical sites and monuments and famous landmarks.
Visit the city’s top attractions and some of the local’s favorite neighborhoods like charming Little Italy in North End and Charlestown. Pedal along the Freedom Trail and trace the history of the American Revolution as you pass by national historic sites.
Admire the Charles River, as you bike along the banks at Copley Square, and swing by the home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park, to see more of the downtown area.
Not only is it an exciting and active way to see the city, but it’s a great chance to meet some fellow backpackers as well.
20 – See and feel Boston like nowhere else at the Skywalk Observatory
Boasting unmatched views of Boston and a lot of New England (an estimated 100 miles out) visitors interested in learning more about the city’s historical importance, from its foundational past to its prosperous future, should book their tickets to the Skywalk Observatory.
Recommended highly by locals as a way to get an all-encompassing intro to Boston – gain views of some of Boston’s most iconic buildings, from Boston’s Hancock Tower to Harvard, and the Charles River.
When you purchase your ticket for the Skywalk, it also includes entrance into the Dreams of Freedom Museum and an immersive multimedia theater. The Dreams of Freedom Museum displays the cultural fabric of the city, showcasing the different nationalities of Bostonities.
21 – Drift across the waves on a jet boat!
Thrillseekers, this one’s for you! Cross the Boston Bay on a high-speed jet boat and get your adrenaline pumping!
Riding a jet boat is considered to be one of Boston’s premier water attractions and is something that every local and tourist should do at least once.
Feel the fury of the popular Boston Harbor Codzilla, a 75-foot speedboat painted as an angry fish, tramping on the blue waters. Expect lots of ocean spray all over your face!
Secure your hats or sunglasses, and hold on tight, as this sea monster shows off with 360-degree spins and hairpin turns that make you scream all throughout your ride.
22 – Fly high on a Zipline
Feel the sweet rush of freedom as you fly through the trees at Tree Top Adventures, from hiking its curvy 10 trails to flying from tree to tree in its more than 25 zip lines – there is no shortage of fun at this park!
Boundless Adventures challenge visitors with multiple obstacle courses while rewarding them with incredible aerial views of the local nature of the park. From zip line canopy tours to other fun games in the air, you’ll want to book your next visit here time and time again.
If you’re visiting Boston in the winter, Beantown Adventure Ropes Course is the place for adventurous indoor ropes courses, and mini zip lines, especially geared towards children.
23 – Saddle up at the Chrislar Horse Farm and Equestrian Center
Immersed within the lush national forest you’ll find — stretched over 10 acres — the popular Chrislar Horse Farm and Equestrian Center.
There are over 40 horses available and guests don’t need any prior experience horseback riding — so long as you’re eager to learn, you’ll be tacking, untacking, grooming, and riding in no time!
Enjoy rides at the beach or in the woods at Georgetown-Rowley State Forest.
The horse farm has a training track, turnout rings and indoor arena. It opened its doors to the public in 1978, and since then many have taken horse riding lessons or learned to become breeders and trainers.
Take your first horse ride or simply watch them training horses, this place is fun to spend a day with family and children.
24 – Shop the day away at Faneuil Hall Marketplace
For one-of-a-kind souvenirs and handmade goods to take home, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is the place to check out.
Not only are there different types of local artists and vendors, but there are also a lot of different places to eat — this is where visitors can indulge in Indian pudding, clam chowder and lobster rolls.
Throughout its more than four decades of history, the market has been a gathering place for street performers to entertain market-goers for a living. Catch some acrobatics or magic shows happening outside the hall every day.
Today, world-class performers and musicians have graced the Faneuil Hall for live entertainment for locals and tourists alike. Tour the market with a guide to get an insider’s view and find the best places to eat.
25 – Go kayaking!
Explore the beautiful views of the Boston skyline from the water on a kayak tour, whether you’re looking for a fun activity to spend quality time with friends, or you’re looking for a good outdoor workout.
Traverse through the waters of the Charles River, and even go into the Boston Harbor, and the magnificent Massachusetts coastline, as you go on a group kayak tour or a unique kayak experience.
Consider booking your kayak tour with Charles River Canoe & Kayak, offering amazing excursions from the Boston Harbor Tour, or a Skyline or City Lights Tour. With tours catering to families or seasoned kayakers, don’t hold back from discovering a new side to the city.
26 – Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
Travel back in time all the way back to 1773 and become part of the Boston Tea Party!
The historic event comes to life through interactive exhibits, tours and original artifacts — all of which combined allow guests to see firsthand how the political protest changed the course of American history.
Reenact the protest that started the American Revolution alongside a replica of an 18th-century ship. Begin your journey at the Meeting House to collaborate with the Sons and Daughters of Liberty.
Learn why it’s called Boston Tea Party as you participate in throwing boxes of tea off the ships onto the water. It’s the exact spot where it happened over 200 years ago!
27 – Use your deduction skills in an escape room
An exhilarating activity for kids and adults alike, guests of all ages can try their hand at cracking the codes and thinking outside the box.
Even if you’re an experienced escape artist, with many different themed rooms available (including a spooky crime-solving scene), there’s always something new and fresh.
Test your teamwork skills with family and friends, or create stronger bonds with your colleagues in solving puzzles together. Try Escape The Room Boston’s “Cartman’s Escape Room” inspired by the cartoon TV show “Southpark.”
Pick one of the games designed by Trapology Boston from surfacing a submarine to save your crew to getting out of a gambling den to stop a hustler from hurting your family.
28 – Sunbathe on one of Boston’s beaches
Boston has no shortage of sand, so it’s important to know which beaches are worthy of a visit! Fortunately, we’re here to help.
The locals certainly have their favorites: Crane, Revere, Nantasket, Pleasure, Gloucester, Carson, Wollaston, Devereux and Constitution Beach are all worth checking out!
One of the famous public beaches in Boston, Carson Beach spans 3 miles facing the Old Harbor and has plenty of parks and spaces for beach volleyball and other activities.
29 – Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Schooner Adirondack III
Kick back, relax and watch the sunset behind the iconic Boston skyline! A Schooner Adirondack III sunset sailing experience typically lasts for up to two hours, with stunning views guaranteed from departure to docking.
The 80-foot boat is an attraction itself, modeled after the late-19th-century vessels. Sail smoothly through the ocean, as you watch the beautiful sunset fades away. Watch the city glow with bright lights and enjoy the sea breeze.
A schooner ship has played in the history of Massachusetts, where the first ones in the country were made in the 1700s. Its design inspired the creation of clippers, ships made for speed and used by merchants during the 19th century.
30 – Seek a thrill at Six Flags New England
For a truly unforgettable adventure, why not spend the day with family and friends on the rides at Six Flags New England?
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer the Merry-go-round, the park has a large variety of rides to suit every type of visitor.
The list includes family-friendly rides like the 1909 Illions Grand Carousel, and kid-friendly rides such as Krazy Kars. For more exciting experiences, go for the water rides like adventure river, and thrill-seeking rides like the Batman: The Dark Knight roller coaster.
Things to Do in Boston: FAQs
What is the best time to visit Boston?
The ideal time to visit is during the fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the foliage paints the city in vibrant hues.
Are the Freedom Trail tours guided?
Yes, guided tours are available, providing in-depth insights into each historical site along the trail.
How can I purchase tickets for the Boston Symphony Orchestra?
Tickets for the Boston Symphony Orchestra can be purchased online through their official website or at the Symphony Hall box office.
Is photography allowed in the Museum of Fine Arts?
Yes, photography is permitted in most areas of the Museum of Fine Arts, but flash photography may be restricted in some exhibits.
Are there vegetarian options at Quincy Market?
Certainly! Quincy Market offers a diverse range of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring a delightful experience for all dietary preferences.
Can I swim at the Harbor Islands beaches?
Yes, several Harbor Islands have beaches suitable for swimming, making it a perfect summer retreat.
Conclusion
As you plan your visit to Boston, consider this guide your roadmap to an unforgettable experience. From historical landmarks to culinary adventures, the Hub has it all. Immerse yourself in the charm of Boston, where every corner reveals a new story, and every activity creates lasting memories.
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