tourist attractions near boston

Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

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

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Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

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

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

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

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

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

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

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

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

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North End North End free

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

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

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

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

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

Boston Common Boston Common free

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

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

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Fenway Park Fenway Park

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

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

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

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

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

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Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

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

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

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

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

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

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Cambridge Cambridge free

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

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

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

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

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

Old North Church Old North Church

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

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

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

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

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

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

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

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

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

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

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

Museum of Science Museum of Science

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

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

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

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

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

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

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

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

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

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

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

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Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

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

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

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

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

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

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

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

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

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

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

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

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

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

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

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View Boston View Boston

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

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

The Mapparium The Mapparium

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

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

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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.

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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 .

Best restaurants in Boston by cuisine

The most romantic restaurants in boston.

Puritan reserve be damned—Boston’s romantic restaurants cater to every predilection

The best brunch spots in Boston

Whether you’re fighting a hangover or fueling up before shopping or taking in a few museums or galleries, these are the best places for brunch in Boston

The best burgers in Boston

Many of the best Boston restaurants have a signature version on the menu, but cheap-eats legends are also staking their claim for "the best"

The best vegan restaurants in Boston

Boston has a great selection of restaurants for vegetarians, and many of the best Boston restaurants offer vegetarian options or are happy to modify their dishes for the meat-free

The best vegetarian restaurants in Boston

Read our essential guide to Boston ’s best vegetarian and vegan restaurants—with insider tips and recommendations, written by local experts

Need somewhere to stay?

Unique airbnbs to rent in and around boston.

From a Victorian townhouse to—yes—an actual lighthouse, these Airbnb properties make a trip to Boston all the more special.

The 16 best hotels in Boston

Our guide to the best hotels in Boston includes top picks for vacations and staycations.

Where to stay in Boston

H ere’s your guide to the best negihborhoods and accomodations to make you fall in love with Boston.

More great things to do across the globe

The best things to do in the world right now.

Music, art, food, nature and the year’s biggest parties—these are very best things to do and see right now, anywhere in the world.

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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, where to stay in boston for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to boston, 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

Most of Boston's major tourist attractions are relatively close to the downtown area and Boston Common, where the Freedom Trail begins. Beacon Hill, Copley Square, and the Waterfront/North End are all within easy reach of these highly-rated hotels in Boston.

Luxury Hotels :

• These hotels are in Boston's most prestigious - and convenient - locations: Copley Square and Beacon Hill. Fairmont Copley Plaza is the Grand Dame of Boston hotels, an elegant and gracious landmark property overlooking Copley Square and minutes from the Public Garden's Swan Boats.
• The intimate Lenox Hotel is known for personal attention in the heart of Back Bay, adjacent to Prudential Center and Copley Square, close to museums and Newbury Street shopping.
• XV Beacon crowns historic and fashionable Beacon Hill, next to the State House and overlooking Boston Common.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Boston's waterfront extends from the North End Italian neighborhood to the newly blossoming Seaport area, handy to harbor cruises, seafood dining, museums, and historic sites. Boston Marriott Long Wharf overlooks Boston Harbor, close to the New England Aquarium and North End attractions.
• Seaport Boston Hotel guests enjoy sweeping views across Boston Harbor and the downtown skyline, excellent service, and a no-tipping policy in the hotel and its restaurants.
• In a skillfully repurposed brick factory building, Residence Inn Boston Downtown Seaport is steps from the Boston Children's Museum and downtown attractions.

Budget Hotels:

• Even Boston's budget-friendly options are conveniently close to the center. The Revolution Hotel , in the chic South End restaurant and arts neighborhood, has double, triple, and quad rooms, some with shared dorm-style bathrooms.
• Especially handy to sports and entertainment events at TD Garden, Hotel Indigo Boston Garden is an easy walk to the North End and Quincy Market.
• Across the street from the TD Boston Garden, and within walking distance of the North End, citizenM Boston North Station has tech-savvy, soundproof rooms.

Sightseeing:

• For first-time visitors to Boston, the best way to see the attractions and get acquainted with the city layout is to take a Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour . This tour stops at all the major tourist attractions and gives you the freedom to stop where you want and see the city at your own pace.

Day Trip to Martha's Vineyard:

• Explore more of the Bay State with a 12-hour Day Trip to Martha's Vineyard , traveling by bus through Cape Cod to Falmouth, before boarding the scenic cruise to the beautiful island of Martha's Vineyard. Here, you'll have six hours to explore the island on your own, or you can add a guided bus tour to see Gay Head Light and the historic village of Edgartown.

Day Trip to Newport:

• See the famous summer palaces of Belle Epoch society on the Boston to Newport Small-Group Day Trip with Breakers & Marble House Admission . On an 11-hour small group tour of "America's First Resort" you'll visit the two most famous mansions, as well as Cliff Walk, Ocean Drive, and St. Mary's Church, where Jack and Jacky Kennedy were married.

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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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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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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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.

Related Articles

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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

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 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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34 Cool Things to do in Boston

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Visiting Boston? Lucky you. The capital of Massachusetts sits on the New England Coast and is one of the best-known destinations in the US. Despite its long and illustrious history, the city has a trendy, youthful atmosphere. And Boston’s attractions are second to none – you’ll find historic sites, art galleries, and great restaurants.

Boston was a significant city in the American Revolution, so you’ll find lots of political history dotted around the city. With its close proximity to Harvard University, it is no wonder you will find plenty of museums and galleries, many of which are founded, owned, and run by the university. It isn’t just academia, though; Boston also has more sporting attractions than you can count. With National hockey, basketball, and baseball teams it is definitely a sports lovers’ town.

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Boston

There are so many things to do in Boston that it is definitely one of the coolest cities in  North America . With that in mind here are our recommendations for the 34 best things to add to your Boston bucket list. Buckle up and get ready for some fantastic things to do.

Go-City Boston Explorer Pass

If you plan on taking a lot of Boston attractions, the Go City Boston Explorer Pass lets you choose admission 2,3,4, or 5 Boston attractions bundled into one low price. This offers excellent flexibility as you can choose from what suits your travel style. From a Boston Sunset Cruise to the Fenway Park Tour or Museum of Science. Check it out and make your picks.

1. See the Boston Skyline from Long Wharf

One of the best things to do in Boston is to admire its skyline, and why wouldn’t you? The Boston skyline is gorgeous, especially at sunset. If you want a beautiful sunset skyline spot, we recommend heading to Long Wharf. The views of the financial district are incredible.

Long Wharf is located in Boston Harbor, just a short walk from the Downtown and North End of Boston. The wharf is an old-school American pier, originally built in the early 18th century. Now, it is an exclusive area in Boston – perfect for safely exploring photo opportunities before dark.

You can sit and relax while listening to the gentle lapping of water and watching the yachts come in. The sun sets perfectly behind the city skyline too, which makes Long Wharf one of the best places for sunset in Boston. Even if you are only visiting for a weekend, we recommend finding a pretty spot like this one. It is a great way to get a taste and appreciation of the city.

Take this sunset sailing cruise to really take in the views of the Boston Skyline. Departing from Central Wharf you’ll board the historic tall ship, The Liberty Star. You can relax or help the cruise hoist the sails as you enjoy views of East Boston, Fort Independence, The Charleston Navy Yard, and the skyline.

2. Have afternoon tea at Boston Public Library

Yes, you really can have afternoon tea at a public library. Located in the Courtyard Tea Room, it is one of the most elegant and the most popular things to do in Boston. The experience is the epitome of elegance and refined culture. If you’ve never been to a formal afternoon tea before, it is definitely something to try. Be sure to make reservations in advance because this is popular.

Boston Public Library has a designated room for afternoon tea. Titled ‘Courtyard Tea Room’, the space is tucked away in the library’s historic Mckim Building. You can spend the morning reading books and finish the afternoon with delicious sandwiches, cakes, scones and of course tea. They serve your choice of black, green, and herbal teas. Afternoon tea in Boston is not a culinary or cultural experience you should miss.

3. Go shopping on Newbury Street

Once known as one of the most expensive streets in the US, Newbury Street is much more suited to shoppers of all budgets these days. You’ll still find chic boutiques and upscale shopping centers, but there are plenty of high street brands and budget-friendly stores as well.

In our opinion, Newbury Street’s shift has made it an even better place to visit in Boston. You can treat yourself to a souvenir – be it a new dress, accessory, or a funky pair of shoes. The 19th-century buildings are also stunning retail and hospitality venues. Walking along the treelined street is sure to get you feeling the big city mood.

Shopping on Newbury Street is just one of the fun things to do in Boston. If you like retail therapy, it should absolutely be added to your itinerary. Shop till you drop, and when you drop, head to a hip café for a caffeine pick-me-up.

Not sure where to start? Get this Hop-on-Hop-Off Trolley tour to discover Boston when you first arrive. We love doing a hop on hop off bus whenever we arrive in a new city to see the highlights and help get our bearings.

4. Visit Chinatown

When you think of Chinatown, what comes to mind? Delicious food? Fantastic decorations? A buzzing atmosphere after dark? Well, Boston’s Chinatown has all of the above. If you want somewhere to eat, drink, or be entertained, visiting the city’s Chinatown is one thing you cannot miss.

You can pick up traditional Chinese snacks from the numerous bakeries during the day. By night, there are dumpling houses galore, and you can treat yourself to a sit-down meal or piping hot takeaway. The neighborhood is enormous and packed with action – both food related and recreational. Make sure to check out Shabu-Zen if you love a good hot pot. We loved it.

Chinatown Gate is a popular attraction in the neighborhood and marks its entrance. The gate was gifted to Boston by Taiwan in 1982. It quickly became a symbolic marker of the Asian-American community in the city. The giant chess boards in the middle of Chinatown are also a popular spot to visit. You can challenge a friend (or a stranger) to a game for a bit of fun.

Many Hollywood movies have been set and made in Boston. Take a Boston Movie Tour to see some of the most iconic movie scenes in history. See Jack Nicholson’s mob hangouts from The Departed, have a pint at the original Cheers Bar, sit where Robin Williams sat on the famous park bench from Good Will Hunting, and more!

5. Museum of Science

Every city has a science museum, but not many cities have a science museum of the same caliber as Boston’s. Visiting the Museum of Science is one of the top things to do in Boston, especially if you have kids. The venue has over 7000 exhibits, including daily presentations and even live animals.

The museum spares no expense, and visitors can enjoy top-of-the-range activities. You could watch a 4D film in the IMAX theater one moment and spot stars in the planetarium the next. We love the diversity of the exhibits at the Museum of Science, and the range of things to do makes it great for visitors of all ages and walks of life. It covers everything from biological topics to outer space.

To experience the best, most exciting parts of science, a visit to the Museum of Science is definitely in the cards. Allow at least half a day to experience the best of the museum. You should also check ahead for any one-off events and workshops, as you might want to choose which day you visit accordingly.

6. Museum of African American History

Talk about a unique setting; the Museum of African American History sits in an old 1834 schoolhouse. The building is a fascinating historical venue and a great place to discover more about the history of the African American community in Boston.

The best part about the museum is the variety of exhibits. There is a range of permanent exhibitions and temporary ones that rotate regularly and give the museum a constantly evolving feel. There has been a very popular jazz exhibit in the past, and the museum covers all aspects of African American culture.

Visitors take a partially guided tour, with some sections available for independent exploration. This balance is brilliant for experiencing the museum. It gives plenty of time to ask questions and take in information at your own speed. While the attraction is best suited to adult visitors, it may be suitable for older children. All in all, it takes around an hour to visit.

7. Tour the Boston food trucks

Foodies, listen up. The Boston food trucks are a big deal. In fact, they are so much of a big deal that you can find detailed food truck schedules online – turning the casual eating experience into one you can pick and plan in advance.

Going on a self-guided food truck tour is excellent if you are an adventurous eater and enjoy trying different cuisines. Plus, it is a low-cost way to try different dishes. You could sample tacos, a Belgian waffle, a juicy burger, or even dumplings. Boston’s food truck scene is packed with various delicious comfort foods.

Check online to find your favorite truck or sample dishes from a few different trucks during your stay. Travel is best led by your stomach. If you are a foodie, this Boston Food and History Tour combines food with a tour of the North End into the Freedom Trail.

8. Busch Reisinger Museum

If you know your art, visiting the Busch Reisinger Museum is one of the best things to do in Boston. The museum specializes in German and Northern European artwork – ideal for artists and scholars wanting a niche experience.

The museum was founded by Harvard University in 1901 and is one of three art museums belonging to the university. If possible, visit them all. However, we believe you should prioritize the Busch Reisinger if you just have time for one. The museum is full of fascinating artwork, including works of the Austrian Secession.

Niche, engaging, and beautifully presented, the Busch Reisinger is one of Boston’s best places to visit. If you are an art lover, mark the museum firmly on your Boston bucket list.

9. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

When we say that the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is stunning, we really mean it. While technically an art gallery, the museum is better known for being designed to mirror a 15th-century Venetian palace. The museum has everything from stained glass windows to an Italian courtyard garden.

The courtyard is a highlight of the museum, and even if you don’t see one piece of art, it is well worth visiting to see it. The museum has a personal feel, and it still feels like the ultra-luxurious residence it once was. Ensure a camera is handy, although pictures are restricted in certain rooms.

The pieces themselves are a mixture of artifacts and artwork. You can admire three floors of statues, sculptures, paintings, and features. Allow at least an hour or two to fully appreciate all the museum offers.

Interestingly, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum was also targeted by thieves in 1990 in what transpired to be a $500 million art heist. The museum has capitalized on its past victimhood, and now visitors can admire the empty frames – left to commemorate that stolen pieces.

10. Quincy Market

Who doesn’t love a market? Markets are so exciting and action-packed that some people make a point of visiting a market first in every new city. If you want to experience market life in Boston, we recommend Quincy Market, also known as Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Quincy is a massive indoor food market located in a historic 19th-century building. With over fifty different pop-up stores and eateries, visitors have a lot to choose from – whether you want breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just a grocery shop.

The market is also famous for its street performers. Watching the street acts is a fun way to end any shopping escapade and makes a market trip much more family-friendly. It also helps to keep the atmosphere at Quincy jovial and friendly. For this reason, we recommend the market for anyone, from solo travelers to families with young children.

11. Walk the streets of Beacon Hill

When you think of Boston, often rows of Victorian brick houses come to mind. These houses can be found in Beacon Hill.

The neighborhood of Beacon Hill is beautiful. You’ll find rows of Victorian terraces, cobbled streets, and antique lanterns that light up after dark. The scene is a world apart from the flashy, glitzy CBD. You should prioritize seeing the ‘other half’ of Boston, even if you are just visiting for a day or two.

Walking the streets of Beacon Hill sounds like a basic thing to do in Boston. However, don’t be fooled. This is one of the most scenic and memorable activities. Bring a camera, wear a photogenic outfit, and get excited to meet Boston’s most exclusive, beautiful neighborhood. This highly rated photo walking tour will help you capture the best photographs to post on social media or to hang on your wall at home.

12. Copley Square

Copley Square is small but sure packs a punch. The 2.4-acre square is home to some of Boston’s most notable attractions. Even if you don’t plan a visit, you’ll probably drop by accidentally.

It is one of the most historical places in Boston and is the perfect spot to take pictures. The square is somewhat of a focal point in Downtown Boston – which is an achievement in itself since the city’s downtown is packed with attractions and landmarks. You’ll find the Boston Public Library, Trinity Church, and Old South Church in the square. Don’t forget to spot the bronze statue of John Singleton Copley, the American portraitist, and namesake of the square.

A visit to the square is well combined with one of its attractions and is one of the least time-consuming things to do in Boston. You can quickly appreciate the square in less than ten minutes, making it the perfect itinerary addition if you find yourself with a tiny bit of extra time.

13. TD Garden

TD Garden is a bit of a jack of all trades venue. The massive arena is the home ground of both the National Basketball League’s Boston Celtics and the National Hockey League’s Boston Bruins. When the arena isn’t showing sporting games, it will likely be welcoming famous music artists and running huge concerts. It’s safe to say that you should check the venue schedule when visiting Boston.

Of course, sporting fans should look ahead for specific events that take their fancy. Similarly, music lovers should check ahead to see if any of their favorite artists are touring and stopping by Boston. The arena has a capacity of nearly 20,000 people, so it is a great place to visit to experience a lively crowd atmosphere. The arena is also entirely covered, which makes visiting a fantastic activity all year round – forget shivering at a game or live music event.

14. Castle Island

Castle Island is located on the very end of the South Boston Peninsula. Technically, it isn’t an island either. It was once an island, but it was connected to the mainland in 1928 for easier access. Visiting Castle Island is one of the best things to do in Boston if you want to enjoy the sea breeze and beautiful outdoor space.

Castle Island has rugged, windswept beauty. You can easily walk the island perimeter in a couple of hours and visit its beaches when it’s warm. The island gets its name from ‘Castle William’, an old fort built in 1703. There is plenty of history dotted around the island, so keep your eyes peeled for attractions where you can learn more. We particularly recommend visiting the World War II Memorial and Fort Independence.

15. Samuel Adams Brewery

Beer lovers, this attraction is for you. Taking a tour of the Samuel Adams Brewery is one of the most fun things to do in Boston and perfect if you enjoy tasting experiences. We love the practical element and hands-on approach to demonstrating the production process.

Visitors embark on a short tour of the back room, where you can see the beer currently being brewed. Your tour guide explains the process, and you get to see the production in action, unlike many tours which use multimedia displays.

After the tour, you get a tasting session with a flight of beer included in your ticket price. You can then enjoy a further drink in the beer garden or head to the gift shop. Remember that you get a souvenir beer glass included in your ticket price, so you won’t necessarily need to purchase a souvenir from the shop.

16. Go kayaking on the Charles River

Exploring the Charles River by kayak is one of the most unique things to do in Boston. Kayaking the river gives you a different perspective of the city and is a fun, active attraction. In fall, the city scenery is even prettier, and you’ll be able to admire Boston in all its autumnal glory.

The most popular route is five miles long, although there is no set distance requirement when renting a kayak independently. You can rent a kayak at  Charles River Canoe & Kayak or book a guided tour. A guided tour is the best option if you want sightseeing commentary or are unfamiliar with the cityscape and its significant landmarks. However, kayaking independently is much more of an adventure. The choice is yours.

17. JFK Presidential Library & Museum

Visiting the JFK Presidential Library & Museum is one of the most popular things to do in Boston. The entire venue is dedicated to the memory of President John F. Kennedy, the thirty-fifth president of the US.

You can learn about his personal life, his time in the presidency, and his legacy. The library and museum are full of original documents, artifacts, and exhibitions to browse. Plus, students and scholars are granted special access to research collections. Keep the venue in mind for research purposes, not just recreational purposes.

If you are interested in political history, a visit to JFK Presidential Library & Museum should be top of your to-do list. Where better to learn about JFK than in his home city? And the whole venue is both engaging and massively informative.

18. King’s Chapel Burying Ground

A graveyard may seem like a dreary, morbid attraction when to include when visiting Boston. However, the graveyard is a scenic place and well worth a visit. King’s Chapel Burying Ground is also one of the most notable historical attractions in the city. The graveyard is the famous burial ground of John Winthrop, Massachusetts’ first Governor.

If you like political history, King’s Chapel Burying Ground is an excellent place to visit. It is also a good spot to just experience somewhere a bit different in Boston. The graveyard is Boston’s oldest English burying ground and has over 300 years of history to its name.

19. Encore Boston Harbor

Everyone needs to let their hair down sometimes, and if you like a flutter at the casino, Encore Boston Harbor is where to go. The five-star hotel has its own casino, which stays open 24 hours daily. You don’t have to be a guest to visit (although if you want to splash out, the hotel makes excellent accommodations in Boston). So, channel your inner Las Vegas partier and drop by to try your luck and have a laugh.

The casino is complimented by many on its spacious layout. You’ll find many table games and slots, plus a sports bar if you prefer to stay updated with the sporting world. Encore is an upscale casino with a beautiful design and excellent hospitality. You can drop by for a drink to experience the atmosphere or for a gamble, and you’ll have fun either way.

A great way to see Boston Harbor is on a historic ship. This highly rated cruise gets you involved as you help the crew hoist the sails on a classic tall ship. Step back in time as you take in the views while sailing toward the outer harbor.

20. Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a 4km (2.5-mile-long) historical trail that runs through the heart of Boston. Add walking the Freedom Trail to your itinerary to combine history with an active couple of hours. Or you can book this highly rated guided walking tour that takes you on a 1.5-hour historical journey.

The trail includes sixteen locations, many of which we will cover in this guide as independent attractions. However, if you want to combine lots into one experience, the trail is the perfect way to do so. For this reason, it is one of our top recommended things to do in Boston and is a must – even if you visit Boston for just a day.

You’ll pass Bunker Hill, Boston Common, Paul Revere’s House, and more. Each location on the trail played an essential role in the American Revolution. The track is perfect for quickly gaining a thorough knowledge of Boston’s role in the revolution. You can walk it independently or purchase a tour, depending on your budget and current level of historical knowledge.

21. Paul Revere House

Wondering who Paul Revere is? Only a legendary influence in the American Revolution. The Paul Revere House is his former residence and the oldest remaining building in Downtown Boston. Nowadays, it is both part of the historic Freedom Trail and a standalone attraction in Boston.

Paul Revere was the mastermind of a plot to communicate vital movements of the British troops to other Patriots. He is heavily praised as one of the earliest figures in the American Revolution. His actions have become both local and national legends. We’ll go into more detail about his story and the plot later for one of our other attractions.

The house itself is a fascinating place to tour. You can hear and discover his story, including his tale of the plot in his own words. The house has been kept as original as possible to create an incredible, immersive experience. The museum feels like a little time capsule, perfect for learning more excitingly.

22. Old North Church

After discovering more about Revere, a visit to Old North Church will definitely be on the cards. The church is located in North End, Boston’s oldest neighborhood, and was highly influential in Boston history.

The 18th-century church is striking to look at; red brick and almost Eastern European looking from the exterior. Inside, the church is a picture of grandeur, full of airy, lightly decorated rooms. You’ll be blown away by Old North Church’s looks, even if you learn nothing of its history.

Its history definitely warrants your time and attention .  As the story goes, two lanterns were hung in the steeple on the night of April 18th, 1775. This genius signal was devised by Revere and let the Patriots know that the British were leaving by sea, not land. The Patriot troops were then able to get one step ahead of the British, warning those in their path.

Old North Church remains a symbol of independence and inspiring community solidarity. It’s easy to see why the landmark is a loved part of Boston’s cityscape.

23. Boston Common

Fancy visiting the oldest public park in the US? Boston Common is a historical green space in the city, and it even hosted British troops during the American Revolution.

The fifty-acre park is stunning but primarily tailored toward providing visitors with plenty of fun and outdoor entertainment. We love how the Common switches through seasons; in summer, you’ll find a spray pool, while in winter, you’ll find an ice skating rink. There are ball fields and a frog pond to enjoy all year round.

Boston Common is an excellent place to visit for fresh air and green space in the city center. You can easily spend a few hours wandering the many walkways and different park attractions. If you are staying in Boston for a few days or more, we suggest including the Common on your itinerary.

24. Boston Children’s Museum

So if the aquarium is our joint top recommendation for families on a rainy day, what attraction does it tie with? The Boston Children’s Museum. The Children’s Museum is a fantastic place for family fun and is easily one of the best things to do in Boston.

The museum has many educational but fun and engaging rooms for children to explore. You’ll find a Construction Zone, a Japanese House, an Art Lab, and more. The idea is that children can embark on self-led learning and exploration, adopting a Montessori-style approach to young learning. The title ‘Children’s Museum’ is strict too, with only adults accompanying children allowed on the premises.

If you want somewhere for your child to have a tailored museum experience, the Children’s Museum is fantastic. You can relax and enjoy knowing that you’ll find age-appropriate exhibits and somewhere where your child is welcome to be completely themselves.

25. Old South Meeting House

Old South Meeting House is the original site of the Boston Tea Party – which is easily one of the most famous political events in the history of America. The 18th-century church was once a gathering place for congregation members to speak politics and plot revolutionary action. However, now, it is a national historic landmark and the site of a huge reenactment every December the 16th.

Whether you are visiting in December or not though, we recommend paying a visit to Old South Meeting House. It is incredible that such an important building in US history can still be visited. Touring the building is an immersive way to understand and educate yourself on the prominent events of the past. You should squeeze a visit in even if you are just visiting Boston for a few days.

26. USS Constitution Museum

The USS Constitution Museum is most famous for its interactive exhibits. The museum tackles the history of the ‘Old Ironsides’ head-on and is set spectacularly in an old 18th-century ship. The ship itself (named The Constitution) is one of the oldest commissioned vessels in the world and a favorite part of maritime and military history in the US.

By nature, the USS Constitution Museum is immersive. You can learn about the ship’s maritime history hands-on as you navigate your way around its decks. We recommend visiting the USS Constitution if you are interested in history and the navy.

27. Bunker Hill Monument

Not only is Bunker Hill a fantastic place to get scenic views over Boston’s cityscape, but it’s also home to a 221-foot obelisk. The Bunker Hill Monument is a revered historical landmark. It marks the Battle of Bunker Hill, which was fought in the Siege of Boston in the American Revolution.

Visitors can climb the challenging 294 steps to the top of the hill, rewarded with history and vistas for their efforts. The monument is incredibly symbolic of American independence. It is nearly 200 years old – built in 1843 and dedicated to the fierce struggles of the American troops.

Visiting Bunker Hill is a must, even if you are just visiting Boston for a couple of days. The monument is a much-loved landmark, and the site is hugely important in American history. Depending on your fitness levels, you should allow between an hour and two hours to climb up to and visit the monument.

28. Museum of Fine Arts

Art enthusiasts, the Museum of Fine Arts is where to visit in Boston. The gallery has nearly 500,000 pieces on display, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary American art. Many consider it the ‘crown jewel’ of all Boston’s galleries, if not one of the finest art museums in the world.

The Museum of Fine Arts is far beyond a place to spend an hour or two on a rainy day. It is the fifth largest museum in the US – an impressive title in itself. The museum is also set in a stunning neoclassical building, which is full of its own history and secret photo opportunities. We recommend allowing at least a day to appreciate the museum fully and possibly a return trip for avid art enthusiasts.

29. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

The Boston Tea Party is infamous and very likely needs no introduction. The protest broke out over British taxation in 1772 and involved 342 chests of tea being dumped into the harbor. If this sounds like fascinating history, it really is. And there is no better way to discover it than at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.

Like the USS Constitution, the Tea Party Museum is a floating one and is located on ships. The museum is full of fascinating exhibits and multimedia, making it an interesting attraction for the whole family. Hang about to catch a live reenactment, and you’ll have one of the best few hours in Boston. The museum even has a tearoom where you can unwind after reliving all the drama.

The Tea Party Museum is one of the best things to do in Boston – perfect for all ages and tourist types. We rate it as a top attraction and highly recommend that you prioritize it when visiting the Boston area. You can purchase admission tickets to the museum ahead of time here.

30. Take a cruise around Boston Harbor

You can’t visit Boston and not take a cruise, and the harbor is where to head for a boat tour of your choice. You can go whale watching, sightseeing, or dining on the water. There are many boat tour options, and it is worth researching ahead of time.

The most popular tour is the 60-minute city cruise, which takes you on a sightseeing cruise through Boston Harbor. This is best for those who want to appreciate Boston from the water and is an informative, scenic thing to do while visiting.

If you visit Boston between May and October, we suggest going on a whale-watching tour. You’ll likely still pass a number of the city’s attractions, but instead of staying in the harbor, you head out in search of whales. It is always exciting to see marine life in the wild. Tours typically last three hours, and you have the chance to spot humpback and minke whales.

Remember to pack some anti-sickness tablets just in case the waters get choppy. However, cruising Boston Harbor and beyond is easily one of the best things to do in Boston.

This Boston Harbour Cruise is top rated taking around Boston Harbor to see the city’s historic sites including the Boston Tea Party Ships, The oldest lighthouse in the US, and the USS Constitution all while listening to tales of the Revolutionary War.

31. Catch a baseball game at Fenway Park

Fenway Park is the Boston baseball stadium and the home ground of the Boston Red Sox. Baseball fan or not, watching a game at Fenway Park is one of the best things to do in Boston. The atmosphere and excitement are incomparable – how better to spend a few hours?

Fenway Park has a capacity of nearly 40,000 people and is the oldest stadium in Major League Baseball, so there is the atmosphere, sport, and history to experience. If you are a baseball fan or sports fanatic, check booking availability for games in advance to guarantee a ticket. Baseball fans may even wish to plan your trip to Boston so that it aligns with a Boston Red Sox game (yes, it is that exciting).

If there isn’t a game scheduled on your trip dates, make sure to take a stadium tour . The stadium has many famous attractions and features, including the Green Monster. The Green Monster is a tall, green wall that stands just over 37 feet tall. It is a popular target for right-handed hitters, and if you can’t see a game in person, it is well worth seeing the wall for yourself on a stadium tour. Book this highly rated tour here.

32. Boston Public Garden

You may wonder what the difference between the common and the public garden is. It is a valid question since the parks sit adjacent to one another, but the answer is simple. The common is much more recreational and a good allrounder place to let your hair down. While the public garden is best for peaceful walking or boating amongst ornamental designs.

The Public Garden is famous for its swan boats and a large lagoon. The gardens also hold an impressive title as the first public botanic garden in the US. You can easily spend a lazy afternoon sitting along the lagoon shores or taking a boat for a spin if you want a nice, calm adventure. Make sure to spot the grand statue of George Washington, depicted on horseback.

Visiting the public garden is one of the most relaxing things to do in Boston. If you want to spend some quality time in green space, we recommend spending an hour or two at Boston Public Garden.

33. Mary Baker Eddy Library

Mary Baker Eddy was the founder of Christian Science, a popular religious movement she created in 1879. The Mary Baker Eddy Library commemorates her life and work, and it is a fascinating place to visit in Boston. If you like religious history or are particularly interested in Christian Science, it’s a must-visit spot in the city.

The Research Room is the best attraction in the library and is accessed via appointment only. Visitors can read through original letters, see old photographs, and examine organizational manuscripts and artifacts.

The Globe Room is also stunning to visit and is entirely made of stained glass. You walk through the ‘globe’ on a narrow walkway. Make sure to snap plenty of pictures.

We always purchase a CityPASS when visiting cities because we love sightseeing. City Passes combines admission to some of the top Boston Attractions.

• Admission to the Museum of Science
• New England Aquarium
• Plus your choice of admission to 2 of the following attractions: Boston Harbor City Cruises, Harvard Museum of Natural History, OR Franklin Park Zoo

34. Whale Watching Tour

Instead of seeing marine life in captivity at the New England Aquarium, head out on a whale watching cruise to see whales in the wild. A high-speed catamaran takes you to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. You’ll see See humpback and fin whales, plus the Atlantic white-sided dolphin. A New England Aquarium naturalist guide will narrate the excursion where you’ll also spy some birdlife. Book your tickets here.

Boston Common FAQS

Now that we’ve covered all the best things to do in Boston let’s cover some common FAQs. These are some extra essential information to know before visiting Boston.

How to get to Boston

The easiest way to get to Boston is to fly. Boston Logan International Airport is exceptionally well connected, with nearly 60 direct flight services from international destinations. It is easy to reach Boston by air if you are visiting Boston from overseas. Similarly, if you are traveling domestically from a distant state, you should consider flying. Boston has nearly 80 flight services to and from other cities in the US. Quick, easy, and often low-cost, flying to Boston is our most recommended option.

Fancy keeping your trip more environmentally friendly? You can catch Amtrak (a long-distance rail service) between Boston and certain cities in the US. If you are staying somewhere like New York and have quite a lot of time to reach Boston, it is well worth catching the train.

Finally, if you have a lot of time, you may wish to drive to Boston. There are so many incredible road trips in the US, but driving the length of the east coast or west to east definitely ranks the highest. Boston is easy to add to either of these itineraries.

Getting around Boston

Getting around Boston is easy peasy. Most of the city’s major attractions like art galleries and best restaurants are located in central areas like Downtown Boston. This means that you can easily explore Boston on foot – relishing the fresh air and change of scene.

However, use the T Subway if public transport is more your speed. The Boston subway system is straightforward and easy to figure out for tourists. Many young professionals use the subway, and you’ll be able to easily explore the whole city. There is even a line running directly from Boston International Airport to Downtown Boston.

Of course, Uber cars and taxis are always on hand if you really get stuck. Taxis are a little harder to find than Ubers, but both make a good option when traveling late at night or if you are in a rush.

Best time to visit Boston

Shoulder seasons are the best time to visit any city in the US. Boston is no different, and spring and fall are the best months if you want a cheaper experience with fewer crowds. But does either season suit you? Then choose fall every time.

Fall is by far the prettiest time to visit Boston. The city is stunning in autumnal colors, and shopping at chic boutiques surrounded by falling orange leaves just feels different (in the best way possible). If you want to see the best of Boston, fall is the perfect time to visit. Plus, in late September and October, the temperatures and weather in the Boston area are still mild – win, win.

Avoid summer if possible, as this is when Boston becomes flooded with tourists. The prices and crowds rocket, and while the weather is nice and warm, the city becomes much less enjoyable to visit.

Boston is an exciting US destination. Whether you take one of the city’s free tours, visit a public garden, or splash out on tickets for one of Boston’s special events, you’ll have a fantastic time. There are so many things to do in Boston that you could be busy for a whole week.

We hope you get to try at least a few of these things to do in Boston. Have a fantastic trip.

Some photos are provided by the GBCVB.

Plan Your Nest Trip to the US With These Resources

• United States Travel Guide
• Things to do in Chicago
• Things to do in Milwaukee
• 41 Awesome Things to Do in New York City
• 46 Best Places to Visit in the US
• Where to Stay in New York City – Top Places and Hotels For All Budgets
• Things to do in Aspen Colorado

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

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Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “34 Cool Things to do in Boston”

such a stunning city it is. These things are really must do while traveling boston.

Great list and thanks for remembering Chinatown! Twice-awarded the Traveler’s Choice award, Boston Chinatown Tours will arm you with deeper knowledge and insights into all the tasty treats, lore connected to the holidays and more.

Also, your photos of Boston Common are actually of the Public Garden. The two are separated by Charles St. and a fair amount of history. The Common has the criss-crossing walking paths because it was designed to facilitate getting across town easily. It’s also a place for public/common gatherings including Shakespeare in the Park and more. The Boston Visitor’s Center is there, right near historic Park St. Station.

The Public Garden came later and followed the fashion of its era with a collection of botanicals from around the world, and beautiful fountains (don’t miss the monument to ether!)

Finally, the public transit is undergoing massive repairs this summer and it’s likely to continue into the fall, travelers should expect some shuttle buses and a few hiccups getting around. Fortunately, it’s a beautiful and walkable city. Don’t miss our lovely mural in Dewey Square park (where your food truck photo is taken) and walk the Greenway to see various seasonal plantings and public art.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Massachusetts (MA) » 15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Boston

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Boston

Downtown Boston is one of the oldest settlements in North America and has a history dating back to the arrival of the Puritans in the early 1600s. Throughout the centuries, Boston has played an important role in major historical moments including the American revolution and those notable events are celebrated throughout the downtown district.

Explore the Downtown district to discover seventeenth-century buildings between modern-day skyscrapers, eat oysters in a restaurant open since the early 1800s or live the moment which changed America’s history in a re-enactment aboard a floating tall ship museum.

Don’t think Downtown Boston is just for history fans; it’s not. There’s much more to see and do there than visit museums. Don’t miss out on any of these fifteen of the best things to do in Downtown Boston to make sure you have a great stay without getting an overload of the past.

1. Codzilla Boat Cruise

Downtown Boston has a strong attachment to maritime history, but forget all about that when it comes to the Codzilla Boat Cruise.

Board the seventy-foot-long speedboat at its moorings on Long Wharf and get ready for a full-on thrill ride. The boat hits speeds of up to forty miles per hour as it zooms across the water and spins through a full three-hundred and sixty degrees. Yes, it’s wet and wild, so take a change of clothes.

If Codzilla is too much, scroll down to read about more sedate, stay dry, Boston harbor cruises further on.

Book online : Boston Harbor Codzilla High Speed Thrill Boat

2. Freedom Trail

Explore Downtown Boston’s past by walking the Freedom Trail. Put on some comfortable shoes and join the trail in Downtown at the Old South Meeting House on Milk Street or by the Old Corner Bookstore on Washington Street.

The two and a half mile trail is clearly marked by a double line of red bricks in the pavement and runs through the district, as well as outside its boundaries, and past sixteen of Boston’s most notable historical landmarks.

For a fully immersive and informative experience, join a tour narrated by a costumed guide at the ArtsBoston booth in Faneuil Hall Marketplace. They do a fantastic job of bringing Downtown Boston’s history to life.

Recommended tour : Freedom Trail History and Architecture Walking Tour

3. Downtown Crossing

Head to the Downtown Crossing for some traffic-free retail therapy. The Crossing, located at the junction of Winter, Summer and Washington Street, is a pedestrianized shopping zone and the best place in Downtown Boston to pick up a bargain.

Downtown Boston is well known for having more jewelers shops than restaurants, and there are plenty on the streets of the Crossing. There are also numerous other retail outlets ranging from street food vendors to large department stores like Macy’s, theaters and more than a handful of coffee shops and eateries.

Related tour : Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise

4. Dreamland Wax Museum

Snap a souvenir photo with some of the wax effigies in the Dreamland Wax Museum in Downtown Boston’s Washington Mall. The wax figures of top stars and politicians are so realistic, convincing friends you met the real person won’t be a big deal.

The museum has twelve differently themed galleries covering a total floor space of over nineteen-thousand square feet. Get up close to Snoop Dogg, Cher, Clint Eastwood, the Queen of England and all forty-four presidents of the US.

Available online : Dreamland Wax Museum Entry Ticket

5. Union Oyster House

It’s not often a restaurant is designated as a historical landmark, but it’s one honor which has been bestowed on the Union Oyster House on Union Street in Downtown Boston which has been serving oysters to its customers for over two-hundred years.

With a facade more in keeping with a medieval street than a modern US city, the Union Oyster House looks every bit as historic as it is. The interior of bare wood flooring and beamed ceiling continues the time-warp impression, and there are still plenty of oysters on the menu.

Watch the oysters being shucked while sitting at the bar or take a table and fill up on oysters Rockefeller or go all out with a Ye Olde Seafood Platter. The taste and quality of the seafood won’t disappoint.

6. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

Visit the 18th-century replica tall ship at its moorings just of Congress Street in Downtown Boston and be immersed in a live reenactment of a moment which changed the history of North America.

At the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, costumed guides portray the roles of the characters involved in the historic event. Join them at the meeting house as rebellion flares before heading onto the decks of the ship to throw tea chests overboard the head below decks to explore the crew’s quarters and the hold.

Don’t miss viewing the 1773 original Tea Party tea chest housed in the museum or taking tea and scones in Abigail’s Tea Room served by waitresses in colonial dress.

Highly recommended : Boston Tea Party: Ships & Museum Interactive Tour

7. Trolley of the Doomed

Forget conventional sightseeing and go spook spotting in Downtown Boston instead. Get on the fright night special Old Town Trolley at the stop on Atlantic Avenue and be ready for some serious goosebumps raising.

The ghost tour is narrated by a 17th-century gravedigger who regales listeners with tales of the Boston Strangler while visiting ancient haunted burial grounds, Boston’s most haunted hotel and other locations in DT where spooks are reputed to wander.

The Old Town Trolleys also operate a daytime, spook-free, hop-on-hop-off service throughout Downtown Boston.

Book online : 1.5-Hour Ghosts and Gravestones Tour

8. Mr. Dooley’s Boston

There has been an Irish influence in Boston since the mid-1800s and there’s no shortage of Irish-themed bars, but for a good pint and a dash of authenticity, drop into Mr. Dooley’s Boston on Downtown Boston’s Broad Street.

Dooley’s have been serving Guinness alongside their Irish breakfast in the district for almost three decades. At night, be ready for some proper Irish shenanigans with regular live music and the occasional impromptu fiddle session.

9. Rose Kennedy Greenway

Head along to the Downtown Boston waterfront for a stroll through the Rose Kennedy Greenway. The Greenway is seventeen acres of parklands which stretch for over a mile through the district and into adjacent neighborhoods.

The Greenway is comprised of seven individual parks connected by broad promenades, plazas with interactive fountains, landscaped gardens and multiple public artworks plus a fun carousel with figures depicting animals native to Massachusetts.

Not only is the Greenway a great place to get a breath of fresh air, it’s also the perfect spot for seeing some great views of the Downtown skyline. If the exercise brings on an appetite, don’t worry, there are over thirty food trucks on the Greenway from where to purchase a snack.

10. The Wilbur

For an unforgettable night of comedy or music from top American and international stars, there’s nowhere better to go in Downtown Boston than the Wilbur Theater on Tremont Street.

The one-thousand-one-hundred seat theater first opened in 1914 and is one of the city of Boston’s historic landmarks. Externally plain, the theater is Renaissance-style ornate internally and has mezzanine, balcony, and orchestra levels each with full bar service.

11. Sunset Cruise

Sail out from Long Wharf in Downtown Boston at dusk aboard a Boston Harbor Cruise Boat to view the sensational DT skyline and an impressive Massachusetts sunset.

Choose from a ninety-minute narrated sailing which coordinates with the end of the day cannon firing on the USS Constitution or a one and a half hour trip across the harbor waters with music, light snacks, and sundowners included.

Ninety-minute daytime cruises around the harbor are also available and include a professional narration on the history of Boston harbor.

Related tour: Boston Sunset Cruise

12. Durgin-Park Restaurant

For historic eats in Downtown Boston stop off at the Durgin-Park Restaurant on North Market Street. Established in 1827, this vintage-style eatery has been serving traditional Boston dishes to its clientele since before the American Civil War.

Don’t visit Downtown Boston without trying the Durgin-Park’s infamous Boston Baked Beans, Clam Chowder or heart-warming Baked Indian Pudding.

The street-level floor of the restaurant houses the Gaslight Pub which, as well as serving the full menu, has a special happy hour food offering and an outside patio.

13. Chinatown Gate

Walk along Beach Street in Downtown Boston and be surprised by the sight of an elaborate, green-roofed pagoda-style structure with Chinese lettering straddling a street up ahead.

Pass through the Chinatown Gate and discover a completely different culture. The Chinatown in Boston is the third largest in North America and dates back to the 1840s.

Colorful and vibrant, Chinatown is full of restaurants, shops, and hosts many street celebrations throughout the year including the August Moon Festival and Chinese New Year.

Available tour : Chinatown Culture and Cuisine Walking Tour

14. Down Boston

For a mega-party night out, then Down Boston on Downtown Boston’s High Street is a great choice of venue.

The slick nightclub, located in a basement, has a good-sized dance floor surrounded by plush booth seating and positively glows with a neon rainbow of LED lighting.

Top Boston DJ’s man the decks spinning all the latest dance music, so be prepared to rave until at least two in the morning or later.

15. Make Way For Ducklings

While not strictly in Downtown Boston, the Make Way For Ducklings statues are just a stroll away over Boston Common in the adjacent Boston Gardens and a must-see when visiting the district.

The statues commemorate a children’s storybook about a duck family which was based in the city and have become almost as iconic as some of the district’s historical landmarks.

The proud mother mallard and her eight ducklings make for a great, and very Instagramable, souvenir photo of Downtown Boston. Don’t miss out on seeing them.

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Boston:

• Codzilla Boat Cruise
• Freedom Trail
• Downtown Crossing
• Dreamland Wax Museum
• Union Oyster House
• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
• Trolley of the Doomed
• Mr. Dooley's Boston
• Rose Kennedy Greenway
• Sunset Cruise
• Durgin-Park Restaurant
• Chinatown Gate
• Down Boston
• Make Way For Ducklings

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.

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

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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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!

Thank you so much. Glad we could help. We hope you have a great time. 🙂

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An insider's guide to Boston's top 16 attractions

I grew up in Boston , and have visited just about every touristy and not-so-touristy site the historic city has to offer. From field trips to the Children's Museum to treks along the Freedom Trail with my parents to working a part-time job at the Mugar Omni Theater at the Museum of Science, I've seen and done it all.

Despite its size, there's so much to do in this small, walkable city that figuring out a sightseeing plan can overwhelm first-time visitors. So, rather than trying to do it all, start with these top attractions instead. Some illustrate the important role Boston played in our country's development, while others are meant to stretch your brain or help you discover the city's great green spaces.

No matter where your interests lie, you will find plenty to keep you busy in Boston. Here's where to start.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

Many of Boston's most beloved attractions shine a light on the city's storied past. The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum (306 Congress Street) focuses on the time when residents sought change and kicked off the movement that would lead to the Revolutionary War and, ultimately, the founding of the United States of America. A trip to this museum is especially fun for kids since costumed actors reenact the Boston Tea Party of 1773 aboard replica 18th-century ships with great zeal. Tickets are about $28 for adults and $21 for kids ages 5 to12 when purchased online. The Boston Children's Museum is just a 2-minute walk away.

Related: Mistakes every traveler makes in Boston

Boston Children's Museum

If you're traveling as a family, it's almost a requirement that you check out the Boston Children's Museum. Founded in 1913 by the Science Teachers' Bureau, the museum has provided engaging and educational experiences to children for more than 100 years. It is the second-oldest children's museum in the world and is recognized for pioneering the first hands-on museum exhibit and more. Current exhibits include Art Lab, Construction Zone, Explore-a-Saurus, Our Green Trail, The Japanese House and many more. Admission is $18 for adults and children up to 15 years old, and is free for children under 12 months. During COVID , capacity is limited and visitors must reserve a timed entry slot.

Related: 11 fun things to do in Boston with kids

USS Constitution Museum

Sitting across the Charlestown Navy Yard, where the ship is docked, the USS Constitution Museum houses almost 2,000 artifacts and more than 10,000 archival records, including various collections, research and online activities, which tell the story of the USS Constitution.

Never defeated in battle, the ship was built in 1794 as one of the first half-dozen warships of the newly formed nation. In its lifetime, it engaged with the French, Barbary pirates and the British. Its nickname, Old Ironsides, comes from the fact that her oak hull remained intact despite the cannon fire that enemy ships aimed at her. After more than two centuries, the USS Constitution remains one of the oldest commissioned ships in the United States Navy, with a dedicated Navy detachment tasked to maintain, repair and restore this piece of U.S. history.

Reserve and purchase your tickets for the USS Constitution Museum online ($10 for adults; $5 for children), and make sure to arrive within the 30 minute-period indicated on your ticket. A museum ticket doesn't include entry to the ship, but as the USS Constitution is part of the Boston National Historical Park, entry is free.

Related: 6 of the best-value points hotels in Boston

Freedom Trail

Boston is the seat of American history, and even if you don't know all the details of how this country was founded, you should check out the Freedom Trail. Traversing Downtown Boston, starting at Boston Common and ending at Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown, the 2.5-mile trail connects 16 important historic sites. Along the way, you'll explore churches, burial grounds, meeting houses, museums, parks and more. Some of the highlights include the Paul Revere House, Old State House, Old South Meeting House, Faneuil Hall, Old North Church and the USS Constitution.

You can walk the trail on your own or book one of several guided tours ($14 for adults; $12 for seniors and students; $8 for kids ages 6 to 12 and free for children younger than 6).

Related: Planning a family trip to Boston

Faneuil Hall

Visitors of Faneuil Hall come for its history and also for the dining, shopping and entertainment. Originally built as a market, Faneuil Hall quickly became a meeting place where Bostonians would discuss key issues of the day. Many well-respected figures, including Samuel Adams and George Washington, made speeches here. Today, it's a historic but urban marketplace filled with shops, restaurants, pubs and pushcarts. Live performers and buskers, who have been entertaining people in the open-air square since the early 1970s, provide free outdoor entertainment for the whole family.

Faneuil Hall is easy to find: just follow the paved Freedom Trail path through the historic neighborhoods of Boston. It's also walking distance from the waterfront and accessible by multiple "T" (subway) stops nearby. If you're interested in learning more about its history, join a free tour. If you're here to dine, you'll have plenty of options, from New England classics to international fare. If you'd prefer to shop, you'll find artisans hawking handmade wares, brand name stores and local boutiques. Just remember that Faneuil Hall receives millions of visitors annually, so it can get crowded.

Quincy Market

Part of the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, which includes Faneuil Hall, North Market and South Market, Quincy Market is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, thanks to its festival-like ambiance (think: pushcarts along buildings selling various wares and lively street performers). Quincy Market, along with the North and South markets, was built to handle the overflow of merchants and shoppers crowding Faneuil Hall since the 1820s. Today, Quincy Market is famous for its Greek Revival architecture and houses numerous specialty shops and restaurants. It's also listed in the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic landmark.

Boston Common

For more than 350 years, Boston Common has served not only as a place of relaxation and recreation but also as a place for free speech and public assembly. Founded in 1634, it's considered America's oldest park. It's also been used as community pastureland, a punishment site for Puritans and a site of public discourse and oration. Martin Luther King, Jr. held a civil rights rally here, and Pope John Paul II even celebrated Mass on its grounds in 1979. Today, the park has ball fields, playgrounds, an underground parking garage, tennis courts and the Frog Pond. There are also free yoga classes in the summer, and the Frog Pond transforms into a skating rink in the winter (for a fee). The Boston Common is free to visit, but you'll need to pay for carousel rides.

Public Garden and the Swan Boats

The second public park in Boston was established 200 years after the first one (Boston Common), but it would become the first public botanical garden in the U.S. Its creation was intended as a response to New York's Central Park , and today the 24-acre green space lies at the northern end of the city's Emerald Necklace park system. The park's design came from George Meacham and features Victorian cast-iron fencing, curved paths, fountains, statues and formal flowerbeds. There's also a 6-acre pond, where the famous Swan Boats can be found.

The Swan Boat ride runs from spring to summer and lasts around 12 to 15 minutes. The fleet of 13-foot-long pontoons carries about 25 passengers each. Currently run by the fourth generation of the Paget family, the Swan Boat was designated a Boston landmark in 2011. You can buy tickets at the dock ($4 for adults; $2.50 for children 2 to 15 years; $3.50 for seniors and free for children under 2) but may have to wait 5 to 10 minutes to ride.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

Just minutes away from Downtown Boston is a group of islands that offer relaxation and outdoor fun for everyone. The Boston Harbor Islands National Park covers more than 50 square miles and features a Civil War-era fort and historic lighthouses as well as tide pools and lush trails. It's the largest recreational space in Eastern Massachusetts and is a hot spot for local wildlife.

Georges and Spectacle islands offer hiking trails, picnic grounds, interpretative walks and other recreational programs. Bumpkin, Grape, Lovells and Peddocks are more suited for camping, while Thomson Island is only open during weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day. To visit the islands, take the ferry from Long Wharf North in Boston or at Hingham Shipyard. Round-trip tickets cost $24.95 for adults, $17.95 for children (3 to 11 years old), $22.95 for seniors and are free for kids under 3. Tickets include access to visitor amenities and self-guided activities.

Related: 5 charming New England towns you can drive to from Boston

Fenway Park

If you're a baseball fan, Fenway Park near Kenmore Square is a can't-miss attraction. The Boston Red Sox have called the field home since it opened in 1912, and the park has a seating capacity of about 37,000. If you're planning to visit, it might be useful to download the MLB Ballpark app, which features digital ticketing, mobile check in, exclusive content, rewards and special offers. Or, you could take one of the many tours the ballpark offers year-round. The 1-hour walking tour visits Pesky's Pole, the Green Monster and more. Tickets are available online or on a limited first come, first served basis at Gate D. Tickets start at $15.

New England Aquarium

With 1.3 million visitors a year, this complex on Central Wharf in Downtown Boston is one of the most popular attractions in Boston, especially for families. It comprises an aquarium, Simons IMAX Theatre and New England Aquarium Whale Watch cruises (a seasonal attraction that's open between April and November).

With thousands of animals on display, the New England Aquarium is a fun and educational place to spend a day. Don't miss meeting Myrtle, the 550-pound green sea turtle who has been a resident at the aquarium for more than 40 years. She lives in the four-story Giant Ocean Tank exhibit where other Caribbean aquatic animals make their home. There are also harbor seals, sharks, African penguins and other creatures you can meet through various exhibits. Admission is $32 for adults, $30 for seniors, $23 for kids and free for children under 3.

Old Town Trolley Tours

If you're pressed for time, a ride on the Old Town Trolley can help you quickly see the city highlights. Operating for more than 36 years in Boston, the Old Town Trolley is an unlimited hop-on, hop-off tour, with real-time (not prerecorded) narration. The trolley has 18 stops , including popular tourist attractions such as Faneuil Hall, the USS Constitution and Museum, the Historic District, Cheers Bar, Boston Common, Copley Place Mall, the Theatre District and the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.

Buy your ticket online to save 10%. This means a Silver Pass will cost you $43 and $23.75 for children 4 to 12 years old — the trolley is free for kids under 4 years of age. Your Silver Pass will allow you unlimited reboarding, discounts and attraction tickets that don't have to be used on the same day.

Related: Prime location and great views -- A review of the Boston Marriott Long Wharf

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Art aficionados will be inspired by the works at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) which has a collection of almost 500,000 pieces covering a wide range of periods, places, techniques and media. It's one of the most comprehensive art museums in the world. Here, you'll find paintings by famous artists such as van Gogh, Rembrandt, Gauguin and Monet, along with items from the prehistoric and ancient times. It also has a huge collection of Asian art, featuring ceramics, prints and metalwork as well as Egyptian antiquities.

To make the most of your visit, join a free guided tour , listen to speakers or create your own masterpiece . Admission costs $25 for adults, $23 for seniors (ages 65 and over) and students (18 and older). Children ages 7 to 17 get free entry weekdays after 3 p.m., weekends and during Boston public school holidays — otherwise, admission costs $10. Entry is free for children 6 and under.

Museum of Science

A visit to the Museum of Science, on the Charles River Basin, might require at least half a day. It's one of the biggest science museums in the world, with all floors dedicated to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), hands-on activities, more than 500 interactive exhibits, a planetarium, an IMAX theater, live presentations ("Lightning!" is a popular one) and more.

Amazing views of the river and the Boston skyline are a bonus, and sipping coffee while taking in the spectacular scenery can be a good way to end your visit. Admission is $29 for adults (12 and older), $24 for children 3 to 11 years old and $25 for seniors (60 and over).

The North End

The North End, considered Boston's Little Italy, is the oldest part of the city, founded in 1646. It lays claim to a significant amount of Revolutionary War-era history, and is also where Italians settled after emigrating to this country in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Charles River is the northeast boundary and Route 93 bounds the southern part of this oval-shaped enclave that's a warren of narrow cobblestone streets lined with shops and bakeries that have been there for decades. Some of Boston's most important historical sites are part of the North End. If you walk the Freedom Trail, you'll see the Old North Church and the Paul Revere House.

A mandatory part of exploring the North End is sampling its many bakeries, including Bova's Bakery (134 Salem Street), Parziale's (80 Prince Street), Bricco Panetteria (11 Board Alley) and ordering cannoli at both Modern Pastry Shop (257 Hanover Street) and Mike's Pastry (300 Hanover Street). Be sure to order other classic Italian sweets such as sfogliatelle (layers of pastry filled with cream), tiramisu, anise pizzelles (flat waffle-like cookies), ricotta pies, biscotti and macaroons. Many North End bakeries also sell savory dishes such as Sicilian-style pizza, eggplant Parmesan subs and calzones, and arancini (rice balls).

Related: Guide to Boston sightseeing with teens

Newbury Street

Even people with just a passing interest in shopping enjoy a stroll along Newbury Street in Boston's Back Bay. The street spans about a mile, starting at Arlington and Newbury streets at the Public Garden and ending at Charlesgate East. Along the way, you'll discover a panoply of boutiques and stores selling luxury merchandise, salons and spas, art galleries, second-hand stores and restaurants.

If you shop at Tiffany, Ralph Lauren, Rimowa or Chanel, you'll find outposts here. If you're looking for bargains, check out Nordstrom Rack or TJ Maxx. If you want to visit a Boston institution, head to Newbury Comics, which has been in business since 1978. The store sells comic books and graphic novels, vinyl records and CDs, and pop culture paraphernalia, such as KPop bobbleheads and "Star Wars" Mandalorian figurines. The original store is at 348 Newbury Street and a second shop is at Faneuil Hall (1 North Market Building).