27 Things to Do in Boston
Boston, the capital of Massachusetts and one of the oldest cities in the United States, is a destination rich in history, culture, and modern attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast tracing America’s past, a nature lover seeking parks and gardens, or a family looking for kid-friendly activities, Boston offers something for everyone. This article presents 27 must-do activities that showcase the best of Boston, from iconic historical sites to unique local experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a day or spending longer, here’s a definitive guide to help you make the most of your time in Beantown.
1. Walk the Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile red-brick path that leads visitors through 16 historically significant sites related to the American Revolution. This self-guided or professionally guided tour is Boston’s most iconic historical experience. Key stops include:
- Paul Revere House: The oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston, where Revere began his legendary midnight ride.
- Old North Church: Famous for its “One if by land, and two if by sea” signal during Revere’s ride.
- Granary Burying Ground: The final resting place of important historical figures such as Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere.
Along the way, you’ll also pass other landmarks rich in Revolutionary history, from the Boston Massacre site to Faneuil Hall, known as “The Cradle of Liberty.” Guided tours led by costumed interpreters can provide a deeper look into the city’s past. Alternatively, you can follow the red brick line on a self-paced walk.
Tip: Start your journey at Boston Common for easy access to the trail.
2. Visit Fenway Park
Fenway Park, home to the famed Boston Red Sox, is the oldest Major League Baseball stadium in use today. Built in 1912, this historic park has been the site of countless memorable baseball moments. You don’t have to be a baseball fan to appreciate Fenway’s charm and legacy.
Visitors can attend games during baseball season, enjoying the atmosphere in the stands and the iconic view of The Green Monster, the park’s towering left-field wall. Outside the season, guided tours are available year-round. Concerts and other events are also hosted at Fenway, making it a year-round attraction.
Tip: Don’t forget to grab some ballpark food, including the famous Fenway Franks, during your visit.
3. Explore the Museum of Fine Arts
One of the largest art museums in the United States, the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) boasts a diverse collection of over 500,000 works ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Modern Art masterpieces.
Notable highlights include:
- Monet’s Water Lilies series.
- An extensive Impressionist collection.
- Ancient Egyptian galleries, complete with elaborate tombs and mummies.
The museum frequently holds visiting exhibitions and events, offering something new with every visit. The Art of the Americas collection is particularly impressive, covering Indigenous works, American colonial art, and modern pieces.
Free admission is available for local residents on certain days, so be sure to check the schedule.
4. Stroll Through Boston Common and Public Garden
Boston Common is the nation’s oldest public park and today serves as a year-round community gathering space. Connected to the Public Garden, which was established in 1837 as the United States’ first public botanical garden, these two spaces form a green oasis in the city center.
In the Public Garden, you’ll find the famous Swan Boats, a serene and charming boat ride that has operated for over 140 years. Statues like the Make Way for Ducklings tribute bring storybook favorites to life. During the winter, Frog Pond on the Common offers ice skating, while in the summer, it transforms into a splash pool perfect for kids.
The parks are great for a scenic walk or a picnic during Boston’s warmer months, offering picture-perfect views of nature.
5. Take a Duck Boat Tour
When in Boston, Duck Boat Tours are not just recommended—they’re a rite of passage. These amphibious vehicles provide a fun and educational journey, first driving through key areas like the State House and Museum of Science, then splashing into the Charles River for a boat ride with panoramic views of the Boston skyline.
The unique combination of land and water cruising gives visitors a chance to relax while learning about Boston’s history and landmarks. It’s an especially popular activity for families, but enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
Tip: Tours usually start at Prudential Center or Museum of Science, both of which are easily accessible.
6. Visit the New England Aquarium
Located along the waterfront, the New England Aquarium is home to a wonderful array of marine creatures. From Little Blue Penguins to sea turtles, the aquarium offers interactive and engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.
The Giant Ocean Tank, a four-story coral reef exhibit teeming with colorful sea life, is central to the experience. Other popular exhibits include sea lions, jellyfish, and touch tanks where visitors can gently interact with creatures like stingrays. For an exciting adventure beyond the exhibits, join a whale-watching tour that sets out from the aquarium in warmer months.
7. Discover Harvard University and Harvard Square
Located just across the Charles River in Cambridge, Harvard University is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States, founded in 1636. The beautiful and historic Harvard Yard is open to visitors, offering a chance to see iconic buildings like Widener Library and John Harvard Statue (also known as the “statue of three lies”).
Beyond the campus, Harvard Square is a vibrant, eclectic neighborhood. You’ll discover bookstores, cafes, and street performers. Here, you can explore attractions like the Harvard Art Museums, showcasing an impressive and diverse collection from ancient to contemporary works, and the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology.
8. Explore Quincy Market & Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Faneuil Hall, located in downtown Boston, played a vital role in America’s history as a site for revolutionary speeches and debates. Today, it remains a significant historical site while also serving as a modern marketplace offering shops, restaurants, and street performances.
Adjacent is Quincy Market, a bustling food hall where you can try New England staples like clam chowder in a bread bowl, lobster rolls, and sweets like Boston cream pie. The hall is also famed for its multitude of street performers—there’s always something happening!
Tip: Visit during lunch to enjoy the wide selection of artisan foods.
9. Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
This museum is as much a historic work of art as the masterpieces it contains. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum was designed in the style of a 15th-century Venetian palace and holds the private collection of its eccentric founder, Isabella Stewart Gardner. The museum’s rich European, Asian, and American collections are arranged exactly as Gardner intended, preserving the intimate atmosphere of her home.
Famously, the museum was the site of one of the world’s largest art heists, with several canvases still missing to this day. Beyond its artwork, the central flower-filled courtyard is a lush, beautiful space that visitors won’t soon forget.
10. Cruise to Boston Harbor Islands National Park
Boston boasts a set of scenic islands just a short ferry ride from the city’s Long Wharf. Boston Harbor Islands National Park encompasses 34 islands, offering outdoor activities ranging from hiking and picnicking to historic explorations. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, a Civil War-era fort popular with history buffs. Spectacle Island, on the other hand, offers incredible 360-degree views of the harbor, hiking trails, and sandy beaches ideal for a summer swim.
Whether you’re interested in local history or just seeking a peaceful retreat outside the city, the harbor islands make for a refreshing day trip.
11. Experience the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Relive one of the most famous protests in American history at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. This fascinating museum offers immersive experiences where you can engage in reenactments, including throwing faux tea crates into the harbor, just as the colonists did during their audacious protest against British taxes. The museum also features exhibits documenting the events leading up to the Revolutionary War and costumed actors who guide you through the story.
This interactive museum is a fun and educational stop for history buffs and families alike.
12. Visit the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum
Located on Columbia Point with beautiful views of Dorchester Bay, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 35th President of the United States. Through a collection of artifacts and exhibits, visitors can learn about JFK’s early years, his path to the presidency, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and his inspiring leadership. Original documents, films, and personal mementos help paint a vivid picture of Kennedy’s significant impacts.
13. Wander Around Beacon Hill & Acorn Street
Charming, historic, and picture-perfect, Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s most beautiful residential neighborhoods. With its brick sidewalks, gas-lit street lamps, and Federal-style row houses, Beacon Hill is the epitome of Boston’s old-world beauty.
A must-see is Acorn Street, often touted as the most photographed street in the United States. This cobblestone alleyway, straight out of a postcard, exemplifies the city’s historic charm. Aim for a scenic walk at twilight when the street takes on a magical glow from the historic gas lamps.
14. Take a Charles River Esplanade Walk or Boat Ride
The Charles River Esplanade is an urban park spanning three miles along the Charles River in Back Bay. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk, bike ride, or boat ride, the Esplanade offers a relaxed way to enjoy open space and scenic views. In the warmer months, kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent, allowing visitors the chance to get out on the water.
Tip: The Hatch Shell, located along the Esplanade, is home to free outdoor concerts and events in the summer.
15. Explore Boston’s North End (Little Italy)
Boston’s North End is known as Little Italy, and for good reason. Wandering this historic, narrow-street neighborhood, visitors are treated to the aromas of espresso, pasta, and pastries. Dining is a must while here—stop by favorites like Mike’s Pastry for their world-famous cannolis or sit down at one of the many Italian eateries for an unforgettable meal.
The North End is also steeped in history—it is home to two significant stops on the Freedom Trail, Paul Revere’s House and the Old North Church. Whether for food or historical exploration, the North End is an essential Boston experience.
Family-Friendly Activities
16. Spend a Day at Boston Children’s Museum
For families with young kids, the Boston Children’s Museum is a wonderland of interactive exhibits. Known for its three-story climbing structure, interactive bubble rooms, and educational exhibits, the museum offers hours of entertainment and hands-on learning. Older kids can engage in experiences at the STEM lab, while younger children explore themed areas designed just for them.
17. Visit Legoland Discovery Center
Located in Assembly Row, the Legoland Discovery Center is a paradise for LEGO enthusiasts. With interactive LEGO building zones, miniature replicas of Boston landmarks, and fun rides, this attraction provides a full day of entertainment for children of all ages. From assembling creations in Master Builder Workshops to scaling rides like the Kingdom Quest laser ride, families will enjoy the innovative combination of play and learning.
Outdoor Activities
18. Hike at Arnold Arboretum
Want to escape the urban landscape without leaving the city? Look no further than the Arnold Arboretum, part of Harvard University. Covering over 280 acres, the Arboretum offers miles of trails winding through beautiful gardens, diverse tree species, and gorgeous horticulture displays. Ideal for peaceful nature walks, jogging, or birdwatching, the Arboretum provides year-round beauty, with particularly stunning views during fall foliage and spring blooms.
19. Ice Skate at Frog Pond (Winter) or Splash Pool (Summer)
Depending on the season, Boston Common’s Frog Pond offers two distinct activities. In the winter, the Frog Pond Ice Skating Rink is the most popular outdoor ice skating venue in the city. In the summer months, it transforms into a splash pool, perfect for cooling off and enjoying Boston’s warmer days with family-friendly fun.
Cultural Experiences
20. Attend a Concert at Symphony Hall
Considered one of the best concert venues in the world for acoustics, Symphony Hall is the home of the world-renowned Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO). Attending a classical concert here is a transformative experience, especially if you catch a performance by the BSO or its beloved extension, the Boston Pops during the summer season.
Tip: Look for low-cost or free performances, including special family concerts.
21. Watch a Performance at Boston Opera House
Boasting one of the richest interiors of any theater in the country, the Boston Opera House hosts major productions such as Broadway shows, operas, and ballets. The grand architecture alone is worth the visit, but adding in a world-class performance makes for a win-win experience.
Unique Experiences
22. Explore the Mapparium at The Mary Baker Eddy Library
The Mapparium might be one of the most unique attractions in Boston. This large, three-story glass globe offers a historical perspective of the world as it was in 1935. Visitors step inside this immersive stained-glass model of the Earth and can hear their voice echo with clarity in this spherical, acoustic wonder.
23. Take a Ghosts & Gravestones Night Tour
For those interested in Boston’s spookier side, the Ghosts & Gravestones Night Tour is not to be missed. This guided lantern-lit experience brings you to some of the city’s oldest and most haunted landmarks, including Granary Burying Ground and Copp’s Hill, two centuries-old cemeteries where many of Boston’s notorious residents are interred. Blending history with ghost stories, it’s a thrilling way to explore the city after dark.
Day Trips from Boston
24. Visit Salem for Witch Trials History
Just a short drive or train ride from Boston, Salem offers a deep dive into the intriguing history of the Salem Witch Trials. Visit the Salem Witch Museum or take a historic walking tour of key locations related to the trials of 1692. While in this quaint coastal town, be sure to stop by The House of the Seven Gables, one of the oldest surviving mansions in New England.
Seasonal Activities
25. Cherry Blossoms on Commonwealth Avenue (Spring)
In the spring, Commonwealth Avenue between Back Bay and the Public Garden transforms into a sea of soft pink thanks to the blooming cherry blossoms that line the path. This is the perfect spot for a tranquil walk or photographs—an absolute must during a spring visit to Boston.
Hidden Gems
26. Explore Castle Island & Fort Independence
While Boston is abundant with well-known attractions, Castle Island is one of the hidden gems locals love to share. Located on the waterfront, this scenic area offers panoramic views of the ocean and harbor, lovely walking paths, playgrounds, and beach access. Fort Independence, a historic fort on the island, occasionally hosts tours during the summer season. Pack a picnic or enjoy time relaxing by the water.
Free Things to Do in Boston
27. Tour the Massachusetts State House
Beneath the iconic golden dome sits the Massachusetts State House, one of the most significant political landmarks in Boston. Free tours are offered on weekdays, providing insight into both Massachusetts’ legislative process and the building’s rich historical significance, from the paintings in the Senate Chamber to the Hall of Flags.
Food & Dining
When in Boston, trying the local cuisine is essential. The North End is the go-to destination for Italian food, but there are family-friendly dining options all across the city. Quincy Market offers great food stalls serving lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other iconic New England cuisine. Union Oyster House, famously the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the U.S., is another must-visit spot for seafood lovers.
For sweet treats, don’t miss Mike’s Pastry for its legendary cannolis or a slice of official Boston cream pie at Parker House.
Shopping
Haymarket is a favorite for those who love outdoor markets, offering fresh produce at remarkable prices each weekend. A literary Boston landmark is the Brattle Book Shop, one of the country’s oldest and best stock-used bookstores and known for its unique outdoor sales space, offering thousands of discounted books on carts in their open-air lot.
For more unique, independent, and artistic finds, check out Newbury Street, bustling with boutiques, cafes, and galleries.
FAQs Section
1. What is Boston known for?
Boston is known for its historical significance, particularly in American history, with landmarks like the Freedom Trail. The city is home to prestigious educational institutions like Harvard University and MIT. Boston also boasts successful sports teams, including the Red Sox at Fenway Park, and is a cultural hub, with institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts [2].
2. How can I spend a day in Boston?
Start with breakfast in North End followed by walking the Freedom Trail. Tour Boston Common and Public Garden next before lunch at Quincy Market. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Fine Arts or take a Duck Boat Tour. Conclude with dinner in Back Bay and a sunset walk along the Charles River.
3. What are some free things to do in Boston?
Free experiences in Boston include walking the Freedom Trail, touring the Massachusetts State House, exploring Boston Common and Public Garden, and wandering through the historic streets of Beacon Hill or Harvard Yard.
4. What is there to do in Boston with kids?
Families can visit attractions like the New England Aquarium, Boston Children’s Museum, Duck Boat Tours, Frog Pond, and the Legoland Discovery Center. Other options include interactive exhibits at science museums or taking family-friendly tours [3].
Conclusion
Boston is a city rich in history, culture, outdoor activities, and culinary delights, providing endless opportunities for visitors. From exploring Revolutionary-era landmarks and indulging in delicious local cuisine to enjoying cultural performances and nature walks, Boston truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are returning to rediscover your favorite spots, this list of 27 things to do in Boston ensures you’ll experience the best that the city has to offer. Don’t hesitate—start planning your Boston adventure now!
