best tourist sites 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.

Popular Tours

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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 17 Best Things to Do in Boston

By Todd Plummer and Paul Rubio

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

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

Read our complete Boston travel guide here .

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

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Arrow

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

New England Aquarium Arrow

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

High Street Place Arrow

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

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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.

Olivia Morelli

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 .

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

1. Walk the Freedom Trail

2. see a game or take a tour of fenway park, 3. faneuil hall, 4. boston common and public garden: ride the swan boats, 5. museum of fine arts boston, 6. isabella stewart gardner museum, 7. uss constitution and bunker hill (boston national historic park), 8. museum of science, 9. harvard square and harvard art museums, 10. old north church and boston's north end, 11. boston tea party ships & museum, 12. new england aquarium, 13. harvard museums and the glass flowers, 14. newbury street & back bay, 15. boston public library and copley square, 16. boston harbor and whale watching cruises, 17. john f. kennedy presidential library and museum, 18. beacon hill and the black heritage trail, 19. boston harborwalk and christopher columbus waterfront park, 20. rose fitzgerald kennedy greenway, 21. boston pops and boston symphony orchestra, 22. arnold arboretum, 23. 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.

More on Massachusetts

11 top experiences in Boston in 2024

Mar 2, 2024 • 8 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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These Are the 30 Best Things to See and Do in Boston

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

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

Walk the Freedom Trail.

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

Step back in time at the Paul Revere House.

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

Stroll through the Boston Common.

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

See the animals at the New England Aquarium.

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

Take the kids to the Franklin Park Zoo.

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

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

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

Go for a walk around the Esplanade.

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

Violet Smirnova/Travel + Leisure

Take to the Charles River.

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

Watch a midnight movie at Coolidge.

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

Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

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

Spend a day at the Institute of Contemporary Art.

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

See the Arnold Arboretum.

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

Scope out the treasures at The Museum of Fine Arts.

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

Swing by Encore Boston Harbor.

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

Shop on Newbury Street.

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

"Travel" the world at the Mapparium.

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

Root for the Red Sox at Fenway.

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

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

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

Grab a good book at the Boston Public Library.

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

Grab a bite at Boston Public Market.

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

Drink a local brew at Samuel Adams Boston Brewery.

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

Devour dessert with a cannoli from Mike's Pastry.

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

Explore more city history on a walking tour of Chinatown.

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

Watch a show at the Boston Ballet.

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

Waddle around on a Boston Duck Tour.

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

Shop and dine at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

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

Learn something new at the Museum of Science.

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

Stop by Trinity Church.

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

Get medieval at Castle Island.

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

Pick up new art at the SoWa studios.

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

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The best Boston attractions

We’ve sifted through the city’s museums, parks and historic sites to select the very best Boston attractions

Boston has a whole host of amazing attractions to suit every individual. From storied landmarks to world-class museums, there's a range of experiences both indoor and outdoor. You could spend the better part of a day exploring the Art of the Americas wing of the Museum of Fine Arts, or a couple days checking out all the historical sites along the Freedom Trail.

For a more intimate cultural experience that’s unique to Boston, visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, or a short walk along the Emerald Necklace. For those with little ones, check out the best things to do with kids in Boston . One big bonus about these Boston attractions? They’re all close to some of  Boston’s best restaurants —so make a day, or night, of it.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston

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Best Boston attractions

1.  Public Garden and Boston Common

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens
• Boston Common

The dual jewels of the Emerald Necklace, the city’s historic park system, perfectly reflect the vision of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. The Public Garden is a lovely place to stroll, with pathways designed for promenading. Across Beacon Street is the Boston Common where, depending on the season, you can ice-skate on the Frog Pond, play softball or tennis, or lounge with a book on a grassy knoll.

Don't miss:  The seasonal Swan Boats are adored by children and adults.

2.  Fenway Park

• Things to do
• Sport events
• Fenway/Kenmore

Seeing a game at the home of the Red Sox is a quasi-religious experience for countless locals. If you’re not the sporty type, look out for a big-name concert. The oldest ballpark in the majors, Fenway dates from 1912, and to truly appreciate Fenway’s colorful history, join one of the daily guided tours. 

Don't miss:  Be sure to check out the most famous part of the stadium: its 37-foot-high left-field wall, known affectionately as the Green Monster.

3.  New England Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums

The breathtaking centerpiece of this excellent aquarium is the colossal 200,000-gallon salt-water replica of a Caribbean coral reef. The cylindrical tank, 40ft in diameter and three stories tall, is alive with moray eels, stingrays, gigantic sea turtles and menacing sharks. Stop by the touch tank to get up close and personal with starfish, sea urchins and hermit crabs. 

Don't miss: There's a huge indoor penguin exhibit, where you can watch their antics from almost any balcony. 

4.  Museum of Fine Arts

• Art and design
• price 2 of 4

Founded in 1870, the MFA moved from Copley Square to its current home, a neoclassical granite building on Huntington Avenue—the so-called “Avenue of the Arts”—in 1909. The globe-spanning collection encompasses more than 500,000 objects. An array of performances and special events attract culture hounds of all ages. 

Don't miss:  Penny pinchers can visit on Wednesdays after 4pm, when admission is by voluntary contribution.

5.  Boston Public Library

• Libraries, archives and foundations

The BPL regally sits across from Copley Square, attracting scores of student groups, visitors, and casual book-browsers to its multi-faceted complex. The labyrinthine structure is a joy to get lost in; be sure to visit the cloistered courtyard, a most tranquil place to linger. 

Don't miss:  Join a free tour covering the library’s art and architecture, or check out one of the talks and readings that are regularly offered.

6.  Trinity Church

• Religious buildings and sites

The unabashedly ornate Trinity Church is the visual centerpiece of Copley Square. The intricate, colorful stained-glass windows are most impressive, as is the list of Boston royalty who have passed through the doors over the years. The church is also known for its extensive murals—almost every inch of wall was handpainted by a team led by American artist John La Farge. 

Don't miss:   The venue plays host to concerts and music events, including a weekly organ recital on Fridays. 

7.  Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum Interactive Tour

Step back in time and relive the events that led to the American Revolution. Suitable for all the family, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and explore the recreated replicas of two of the tea party ships. The 3D holographic characters that appear right before your eyes will transport you back in time. The experience will last about an hour and you'll have a host to guide you through it. Ahoy!

Don't miss: Experience the thrill of throwing a crate of tea into the sea.

8.  Freedom Trail

For first-time visitors to Boston, the Freedom Trail provides a useful starting point before checking off the best attractions in Boston. The self-guided, two-and-a-half-mile tour is clearly marked by a red line on the sidewalk, which has winded its way past several of the Hub’s best-known historical sites since 1958. The Trail begins at the Visitor Information Center on Boston Common and ends at the Bunker Hill Monument. 

Don't miss: Keep an eagle eye out during the tour, as there are 16 official historic sites to see. 

9.  Faneuil Hall

• Event spaces
• Quincy Market

Built for the city by the wealthy merchant Peter Faneuil in 1742, Faneuil Hall has hosted countless key moments in Boston's history. While the building is mostly synonymous with the surrounding commercial activity—most notably Quincy Market's myriad shops—it still hosts the occasional political debate and symposium as a nod to its history. Faneuil Hall is part of Boston’s National Historic Park, and rangers provide brief historical talks in the Great Hall daily.

Don't miss: This tour includes a surprise local treat – and the guide is always happy to give recommendations for the best things to do in Boston, night or day.  

10.  Boston: Historical Sightseeing Cruise

Experience Boston from the comfort of a cruise. This historical sightseeing cruise will have you taking in the panoramic views as it swims past the Boston skyline and Boston Harbour Islands. Learn all about American history and enjoy the sights of the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill Monument, and Old North Church. You'll get your very own captain but unfortunately, food and drink are not included, so bring your own snacks or purchase them on board the cruise. Don't fall over deck!

Don't miss: Grab the prime spot on the outdoor viewing deck for unobstructed sightseeing. 

11.  Bunker Hill Monument

• Monuments and memorials
• Charlestown

This 221-foot granite obelisk commemorates the first major battle of the American Revolution. Visitors can listen to free talks from park rangers, or climb the monument's 294 steps (a brisk ascent takes five minutes) for a breathtaking view of Boston. 

Don't miss: Join a Freedom Trail tour to see the Bunker Hill Monument, along with 15 other historic landmarks. Admire the sites while hearing gripping tales from Revolutionary Boston – courtesy of your all-knowing guide. 

12.  Boston Duck Tour: The Original and World-Famous

Take to the water for Boston's number-one floating tour on a World War ll-style amphibious vehicle. Bob along Charles River before transferring seamlessly to land thanks to the adaptable 'Duck' vessel. Enjoy audio commentary alongside views of Boston from the Common to Quincy Market. 

Don't miss: Be on the look out while passing by the unique neighborhoods featured on the tour.  

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Boston

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Settled by Puritans in the 1600s, Boston has been defined and shaped by its history for nearly 400 years. The spirit of American independence was born in the city, and the sights that commemorate the vital role that the Sons of Liberty played in the Revolutionary War attract visitors from around the world.

While many tourist attractions in Boston revolve around its fascinating past, the city is equally renowned for its prestigious institutes of higher education and its fervent sports fans and pro teams. Add in its thriving arts and culture scenes, delicious local seafood and scenic harbourfront setting and it is no surprise that the ‘Athens of America’ attracts so many visitors each and every year.

Map of Boston

25. The Mapparium

Lying just ten minutes’ drive west of downtown you can find the Mary Baker Eddy Library and its amazing main exhibit, The Mapparium. Strolling through the three-storey stained-glass globe really is a very unique experience due to the interesting view it offers up of the world from the inside, its prettily colored countries and incredible acoustics.

As it was built in 1935, the massive map depicts the world of yesteryear with former countries such as Siam and Italian East Africa featuring alongside the Soviet Union. Aside from taking in all the fine details of its more than 600 stained-glass panels, guests can also experiment with its acoustics as the huge historic sphere forms a remarkable whispering gallery.

24. New England Holocaust Memorial

Another of the city’s many monuments is the moving New England Holocaust Memorial which can be found right in front of Boston City Hall. Erected in 1995, its six glass towers make for a striking sight with each symbolizing a different major extermination camp.

While the exteriors are engraved with numbers that represent the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust, the inside of the towers feature quotes from the survivors of the camps. In addition, the plumes of steam that rise through them are a haunting reminder of the horrific atrocities committed by Nazi Germany with the sombre ‘First They Came…’ poem by Martin Niemoller also being etched on a nearby plaque.

23. Cambridge

While it is renowned for being home to both MIT and Harvard University, there is much more to Cambridge than just the two prestigious institutes of higher education. Set just fifteen minutes’ drive northwest of the center, the major suburb has lots of lovely neighborhoods for you to explore with attractive architecture, interesting museums and countless cultural attractions all dotted about.

Known as the ‘City of Squares’ due to its unique layout, Cambridge lies just across the Charles River from downtown and has long been regarded as an academic and intellectual centre. While pockets of great bars and restaurants can be found around Central and Kendall square, historic colonial sites and contemporary buildings also abound.

The city’s main appeal however is undoubtedly its college campuses which contain world-class sites such as the Harvard Art Museums and Peabody Museum of Archaeology.

22. Old North Church

One of the most popular places to visit in Boston is the atmospheric Old North Church which lies in the historic North End neighborhood of the city. The oldest standing church in town, it was built in 1723 and exhibits some exquisite architecture with its tall steeple rising up dramatically above its surroundings.

Now a National Historic Landmark, the church contains a brilliant bust of George Washington with influential figures from the city’s past like Major John Pitcairn and Captain Samuel Nicholson being buried in its crypt. Immortalized in Longfellow’s famous poem ‘Paul Revere’s Ride’ which tells the tale of how he alerted the townspeople about the advancing British troops, the Old North Church is certainly well worth visiting for its intriguing history, architecture and ambience.

21. Bunker Hill Monument

Set on the opposite side of the river to the Old North Church you can find the massive and majestic Bunker Hill Monument. Actually perched atop of the prominent Breed’s Hill, the enormous obelisk commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill which was fought between British and Patriot forces on June 17, 1775 during the American Revolutionary War.

Towering to a huge 220 feet in height, the sparkling granite monument looms above Charlestown, the oldest neighborhood in the city, with green grounds lying all around it. After traipsing up its 294 steps to the top, visitors can enjoy breath-taking panoramas over both Boston’s skyline and the glittering Charles River.

20. Museum of Science

A fun, fascinating and family-friendly place to visit, the Museum of Science is home to a staggering array of interactive exhibits. Located in Science Park, a plot of land that spans the Charles River, it has everything from hands-on activities and live science demonstrations to a small zoo, planetarium and IMAX theater for guests to enjoy.

Since being founded in 1830, it has expanded considerably and now remarkably has more than 700 interactive exhibits for you to peruse. While some sections focus on human biology and the natural world, others transport you to the outer reaches of the cosmos with life-size dinosaur skeletons, mechanical models and machines all also on display.

19. Beacon Hill

Widely considered to be Boston’s most beautiful neighborhood, Beacon Hill is packed with quaint, cobbled streets lined by elegant townhouses. Set in the center of the city, its attractive architecture and appealing ambience make it a treat to amble about with the gold-domed Massachusetts State House being one of its standout sights.

Now one of the city’s most desirable and expensive districts to live in, it was founded in 1795 with fine Federal style rowhouses and free-standing mansions set alongside its atmospheric gaslit streets. Aside from snapping photo after photo of its charming houses, streets and gardens, visitors can also explore the various historic sights and monuments that are dotted along the Black Heritage Trail.

18. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Itself a work of art, the splendid Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum occupies a magnificent building that is modeled on a fifteenth-century Venetian palace. Complete with a gorgeous courtyard garden, the arresting edifice now hosts an impressive collection of American, Asian and European artworks.

First opened to the public in 1903, it is named after Isabella Stewart Gardner – a keen patron of the arts – with fantastic paintings and prints on show alongside ceramics, silverwork and sculptures. On top of seeing masterpieces by Rembrandt, Titian and Botticelli among others, guests can peruse its grand galleries full of furniture and textiles with an extensive old book collection also displayed next to Medieval, Islamic and Renaissance art.

17. Samuel Adams Brewery

If instead of art and architecture it is ales and IPAs that you are after, then you’ll certainly want to stop by the Samuel Adams Brewery. The flagship brand of the Boston Beer Company, its facility lies just twenty minutes’ drive southwest of the center with terrific tours and tastings being on offer.

Named after the Founding Father of the United States, the lovely little brewery is very interesting to tour around as you get to see the brewing, bottling and branding process. After having seen its state-of-the-art production line, visitors can sample some of its tasty brews in its tap room or beer garden with its Boston Lager and Wicked Hazy being particularly popular.

16. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

A must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the States, the brilliant Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum can be found just south of downtown. While its bright red buildings, educational exhibits and engaging activities are located on Congress Street Bridge, its two replica eighteenth century vessels bob about Griffin’s Wharf.

Through immersive experiences, re-enactments and excellent use of multimedia, the museum tells the story of the 1773 protest – the Boston Tea Party – and the events that led to the Revolutionary War. Besides watching short clips, touring its exhibits and dumping tea in the harbour yourself, you can also explore the Eleanor and Beaver to see what life was like aboard the historic ships.

15. JFK Presidential Library & Museum

Perched at the end of Columbia Point, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum is set in a stunning spot overlooking Boston Harbour. Dedicated to the memory of the 35th President of the US, it is home to lots of amazing artifacts and exhibits on his life and legacy with three theaters that show educational films also located on-site.

First opened to the public in 1979, it occupies a marvelous modern building made out of marble that was specially designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. Aside from exploring its light and airy galleries full of personal memorabilia, photos and press clippings, you can also learn about his time in the Oval Office and important issues and moments that shaped his presidency.

14. Old State House

Impressively the oldest surviving public building in the whole of Boston, the Old State House lies right in the historic heart of the city. Built all the way back in 1713, it now serves as a museum and is one of the most popular places to stop off at along the fantastic Freedom Trail.

Once the seat of the Massachusetts Assembly, the beautiful red brick building is best known for its balcony from which the Declaration of Independence was first read out to the townspeople in 1776. In addition to exploring its interior and taking in its fine architecture and exhibits, visitors can learn about the tragic events of the Boston Massacre which occurred right in front of the historic building.

13. North End

Yet another of Boston’s delightful historic neighborhoods for you to explore is North End which has remarkably been home to Europeans ever since the city was first settled in 1630. Now known for its Italian American community, the district’s scenic, centuries-old streets are lined by countless historic sites, attractions and dining establishments.

Besides seeing sights such as the Old North Church and Paul Revere House, visitors can stop off for a bite to eat or drink at any one of its cosy cafes or wonderful Italian restaurants and pizzerias. On top of all its attractive architecture and public artworks, the neighborhood also hosts innumerable community events and festivals over the course of the year that celebrate Italian culture.

12. Boston Public Garden

A very peaceful and picturesque place to wander around, Boston Public Garden can be found just to the southwest of the center, right next to the popular Boston Common. Home to pretty paths and ponds, plants and flowerbeds, the large park is a treat to visit at any time of year as its aesthetic and colors change so dramatically from one season to the next.

The first public botanical garden in the country, it was established in 1837 atop of what once used to be mudflats. Now immaculately manicured and landscaped, the garden’s gorgeous green grounds contain lush plants, flowers, trees and shrubs from all around the globe. Aside from taking a ride on its iconic Swan Boat pedalos, guests will come across numerous monuments dotted about with its statue of George Washington being the most famous of the lot.

11. Museum of Fine Arts

One of Boston’s top tourist attractions, the Museum of Fine Arts boasts an incredible collection of artifacts and artworks from all around world. Founded in 1870, it now occupies a grand neoclassical building in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood, overlooking the stupendous scenery and nature of the Back Bay Fens park.

One of the most visited museums in the world, it is particularly renowned for its amazing Art of the Americas wing which covers everything from pre-Columbian and colonial-era art to contemporary pieces too. In addition, its gigantic galleries also house fabulous Asian and Persian fine arts, ancient Egyptian mummies, masterpieces by European artists and much, much more.

With so many phenomenal paintings, carvings and sculptures to see and astonishing artworks by Goya, Rembrandt and Monet among others to enjoy, Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is definitely not to be missed when in town.

10. New England Aquarium

Located on the Central Wharf within walking distance of the Rose Kennedy Greenway, the New England Aquarium showcases numerous exhibits of sea life, from exotic jellyfish and stingrays to playful seals and penguins.

Opened in 1969, the aquarium’s standout feature is a 200,000-gallon Giant Ocean Tank situated in the main building’s atrium that replicates a coral reef environment. A spiral walkway around the tank gives onlookers a close-up view of sharks, barracuda, sea turtles and schools of small fish.

The facility is also home to an IMAX theater that shows movies with aquatic themes. Whale-watching tours are available too, and visitors can combine a cruise ticket with the aquarium’s price of admission.

9. Boston Harbor Islands

The 34 islands that lie off the coast of Boston offer visitors endless opportunities for fun in the sun and sea. Thirteen of the islands are included in the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. Must-see attractions include the Civil War Fort Warren on Georges Island and the public beach on Spectacle Island, which is only a 15-minute ferry ride away from the city’s Long Wharf.

Georges Island is home to the nation’s oldest lighthouse as well. With trails that wander past dunes and forested areas as well as a swimming beach, Lovells Island is a popular spot for camping.

8. Cheers Beacon Hill

Fans of the television show “Cheers” who want to visit the bar that inspired the hit series may need to travel to two separate locations to fulfill their wish. Renamed Cheers Beacon Hill in 2002, the Bull & Finch Pub located on Beacon Street served as the exterior shot of the bar featured in the opening credits, but the pub’s interior was never used for the show.

A replica of the show’s set, however, is on display at the historic Faneuil Hall market building downtown, and tourists asking for the location of Cheers are likely to be directed there. Both destinations sell souvenirs commemorating the show.

7. Fenway Park

Fenway Park has been home to the Boston Red Sox baseball team since 1912, and for the city’s inhabitants, it’s one of Boston’s most beloved landmarks. As America’s oldest major-league stadium in continuous use, the park is a must-see attraction for fans of the sport as well.

Fenway is also one of the few old-style parks remaining in the United States, and the park’s smaller-than-average field and infamous left-field wall known as the “Green Monster” makes the outcome of games played here hard to predict. Although games usually sell out quickly, visitors can often snag same-day tickets at the park’s box office. Tours of the park are available as well.

6. USS Constitution

Berthed at Pier 1 on the Harborwalk, the USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned navel vessel afloat, and still sets sail every Fourth of July to commemorate America’s independence. Launched in 1797, the three-masted Constitution was named by President George Washington in honor of the Constitution of the United States.

The thick, durable hull on the wooden frigate earned the ship its nickname “Old Ironsides” during the War of 1812 when the ship gained fame for defeating five British warships. The ship is open to the public year round with free tours provided by US Navy personnel.

5. Faneuil Hall

Located in Boston’s downtown district, Faneuil Hall is best known for the role that the brick building played during the American Revolution. Although built as a marketplace in 1742 with funds that donor Peter Faneuil acquired in the slave trade, the second-story assembly rooms became a gathering spot for patriots yearning for freedom.

Among them was the lawyer James Otis, who not only gave the building its nickname, the “Cradle of Liberty,” but coined the rallying cry “no taxation without representation” as well. The building is still used as both a marketplace and as a place for political debates and among the most popular tourist attractions in Boston.

4. Boston Common

America’s oldest public park, Boston Common was acquired by the city’s Puritan founders in 1634. First used as a cow pasture, the park is also the site of many historic events. The British used the area as a camp at the start of the Revolutionary War.

A plaque in the park marks the spot where public hangings were held. A kiosk hosted by Boston’s Freedom Trail Foundation offers visitors information about the park’s monuments. Landscaped with shady trees, fountains and a pond, Boston Common is a pleasant place to take a break from sightseeing excursions as well.

3. Back Bay

Bordered by the Charles River, the Back Bay neighborhood was so named because it was built on what once were stagnant pools of water. Today, the late-19th-century neighborhood is an upscale, fashionable district with picturesque streets lined with Victorian homes, trendy restaurants and chic boutiques.

The neighborhood is also home to the Boston Public Garden, the oldest and largest botanical garden in the nation. The Old South Church in Copley is worth a visit too. Built in 1874 in the Gothic Revival style, the church features an interior redecorated by Louis Comfort Tiffany in 1905.

2. Quincy Market

Designed by architect Alexander Parris and completed in 1826, Quincy Market is as well known for its architectural style as it is for the food that offered inside its more than 20 restaurants and 40 stalls.

Named after Boston mayor Josiah Quincy, the rectangular-shaped edifice was built in the Greek Revival style that Thomas Jefferson introduced to America as break from the Georgian architecture.

Constructed with granite, the building’s heavy materials provide a striking contrast to its delicate design, which includes a grand and ornate domed pavilion. Today, the market is known as a family-friendly spot where tourists and locals can grab a quick bite on the cheap.

1. Freedom Trail

America’s first historic walking tour, the Freedom Trail is a path that includes 16 of Boston’s most important Revolutionary War sites. Marked by a line of red paint, the 2.5-mile (4 km) trail starts at the Boston Common, the oldest park in the United States.

The tour leads visitors past the Old State House, the site of the Boston Massacre, where British troops fired into a crowd of protesting citizens. It passes by Paul Revere’s House and the Old North Church where two lanterns were hung in the steeple to warn that the British would approach by sea. The end of the path connects with the Harborwalk, leading visitors to the USS Constitution.

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May 17, 2018 at 1:26 am

Truly your shared all these places are the best for visit travelling point of view but I have a good experience of New England Aquarium because I have been there couple of the times in my whole life and every time had huge fun there. I hope you will fully enjoy there like I enjoyed.

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

25 Best Things to Do in Boston (MA)

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

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

1. Museum of Fine Arts

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

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

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

2. Boston Public Garden

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

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

3. Fenway Park Tour

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

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

4. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

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

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

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

5. John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library

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

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

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

6. Old North Church

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

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

7. Boston Brewery Tours

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

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

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

Related tour : Craft Brewery Beer Tour

8. Yummy Walks

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

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

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

Website : https://foodtoursboston.com/

9. Beacon Hill

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

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

10. The Arnold Arboretum

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

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

11. The Museum of Science

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

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

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

Included in : Boston CityPASS

12. Quincy Market

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

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

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

13. The Printing Office of Edes & Gill

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

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

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

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

14. Boston Children’s Museum

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

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

15. New England Aquarium

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

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

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

Book online : New England Aquarium Entry Ticket

16. Skywalk Observatory

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

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

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

17. Boston Ballet

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

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

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

18. Captain Jackson’s Historic Chocolate Shop

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

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

19. The Mapparium

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

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

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

20. The Paul Revere House

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

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

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

21. RoomEscapers

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

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

22. Franklin Park Zoo

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

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

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

Book online : Franklin Park Zoo Entry Ticket

23. Trident Booksellers & Cafe

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

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

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

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

24. The Paint Bar

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

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

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

25. Boston Harborwalk

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

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

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

25 Best Things to Do in Boston (MA):

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

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Skiing Near Boston

Beaches Near Boston

Hikes Near Boston

Boston Public Garden

Museums in Boston

Fenway Park Guide

Shopping in Boston

The Best Time to Visit Boston

Weather & Climate

Neighborhoods to Know

Driving in Boston

Public Transportation in Boston

One-Day Itinerary

Day Trips From Boston

Sam Adams Brewery Tours

Top Things to Do

Top 21 Things to Do in Boston, Massachusetts

TripSavvy / Violet Smirnova 

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

Feel Scholarly at Harvard

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

Indulge in Oyster Happy Hour

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

Take a Trip to a Venetian Palace

Corbis / Getty Images

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

Step Inside the World's Largest Walk-in Globe

The Mary Baker Eddy Library

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

Walk Along the Freedom Trail

Violet Smirnova / TripSavvy

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

Visit the Boston Public Garden and the Swan Boats

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

Shop (and Eat) at Quincy Market

 TripSavvy / Taylor Nealand 

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

See a Reenactment of the Boston Tea Party

TripSavvy / Violet Smirnova

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

Watch the Red Sox Play at Fenway Park

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

Visit the Museum of Science

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

Taste Beer at Sam Adams Brewery

Violet Smirnov / TripSavvy

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

Visit the New England Aquarium

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

Take a Day-Trip to a Boston Harbor Island

Kim Knox Beckius

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

Take a Walking Tour of Back Bay

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

Relax at Boston Common

 TripSavvy / Violet Smirnova

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

Take in the History of the Boston Public Library

 TripSavvy / Taylor Nealand

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

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

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

See Ballet at the Boston Opera House

 Getty Images

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

Hover Over Boston Harbor at the Institute for Contemporary Art

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

Support Local Productions at Huntington Theatre

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

Have a Toast at "Cheers"

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

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Things to Do in Boston, MA - Boston Attractions

Things to do in boston.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Financial District
• Fenway / Kenmore
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Fenway Park

2. Freedom Trail

3. Museum of Fine Arts

4. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

5. Boston Public Garden

6. North End

7. Boston Public Library

8. John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library

9. Boston Common

10. Samuel Adams Brewery

11. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

12. USS Constitution

13. Beacon Hill

14. Newbury Street

15. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

16. New England Holocaust Memorial

17. USS Constitution Museum

18. Old North Church & Historic Site

19. Museum of Science

20. Waterfront

21. Quincy Market

22. New England Aquarium

23. TD Garden

24. Granary Burying Ground

25. The Mapparium

26. Old State House

27. Bunker Hill Monument

28. Prudential Center

29. Charles River Esplanade

30. Arnold Arboretum

What travelers are saying.

• North America
• Massachusetts
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit 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. Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Check out our US trips , or browse our collections of Epic Trips , Mini Trips and Sailing Trips and discover the world like never before.

Boston Common and Public Garden

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

The Freedom Trail is a fun and affordable way to learn about the history of Boston. Follow the red-brick path from the Boston Common through the North End and to Charlestown to see 16 landmarks that are significant to the founding of the United States.

Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts is the fourth-largest museum in the United States, filled with almost 500,000 works of art from around the world. The collection spans from ancient Egyptian jewelry to the art of Asia and beyond. Be sure to check out the rotating exhibits.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Modeled after a Venetian palace, the stunning Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum should be at the top of your list. The courtyard is beautiful with female statues set among a garden setting. Meanwhile, the inside of the museum houses rare books, paintings, drawings, furniture and more from ancient Rome, Medieval Europe, Renaissance Italy , and Asia.

Old North Church

The Old North Church is rumored to be the most visited historic site in Boston. Its claim to fame came in 1775 when Robert Newman (the church sexton) and Vestryman Captain John Pulling, Jr ascended the steeple with two lanterns. These lights were a signal from Paul Revere that the British were coming by sea across the Charles River. “One by land, two by sea.” This event ignited the American Revolution.

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Fenway Park

Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. Catch a Red Sox game, and eat a Fenway Frank. Also, have a drink at the many pubs on Landsdowne Street. In the winter, you can check out Frozen Fenway, which is two weeks of hockey and ice-skating events. Tours of the park operate year-round.

The North End is the oldest residential community in Boston. Wander the narrow streets, and be sure to eat at one of the many Italian restaurants on Hanover Street. Finish up with cannolis from Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry, or try both to see which one you like better. (There’s a rivalry between the two bakeries.)

Faneuil Hall

Faneuil Hall has been a marketplace and meeting hall for hundreds of years. Even though it’s touristy, it’s still a gorgeous attraction in Boston worth visiting. Have a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. Alternatively, dine inside the Quincy Market and imagine where the vendors once stood while selling their goods hundreds of years ago.

New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium is a top attraction for families and animal lovers. The giant circular tank allows you to watch the marine life while walking around the aquarium. There are over 80 penguins, and you can also learn about and touch stingrays at the Shark and Ray Touch Tank. The aquarium also operates an IMAX theater and offers whale-watching excursions.

Boston Waterfront

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

Up there with the Freedom Trail and Paul Revere’s House in the North End, ‘Old Ironsides’ is about as Boston as you can get. The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy (launched in 1797) and still has naval officers and crew members onboard. Its famed battles during the War of 1812 earned it the nickname ‘Old Ironsides’ because enemy ships had a difficult time penetrating its strong oak hull with cannon fire. The Navy operates the ship as a historic site alongside the National Park Service in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Old State House

The Old State House Museum allows you to experience the Revolutionary era through its collection of artefacts and interactive displays. View historical documents, maps and newspapers, and enjoy the Old State House itself. See the floating spiral staircase, John Hancock’s coat and the Council Chamber.

Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

The Boston Tea Party served as the famous catalyst for the revolutionary movement in Massachusetts. At the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, you’ll be able to learn all about how a few hundred colonists in Boston dumped more than 300 chests of tea into the harbor on December 16, 1773. Meant to be symbolic refutation to “taxation without representation,” the tea party kicked off the push for independence in Boston. When you visit, you’ll be able to step into the past by participating in activities on the three replica ships. You’ll even get to toss some tea overboard.

Boston Public Library

The Boston Public Library was the first large free municipal library in the country, opening in 1854. Stop by Bates Hall – a majestic reading room recognized by many to be one of the most important spaces in the world due to its stunning architectural form.

Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is a picturesque historic neighborhood in Boston. Hike up the hills, and admire the streets. For shoppers, stop in a general store or boutique.

Museum of Science

The Museum of Science is a perfect option for children and adults alike. Stay for the electric Lightning! show, or check out the visiting exhibitions. There is also an IMAX theater.

Newbury Street

Newbury Street is Boston’s shopping destination. Window-shop as you walk the beautiful tree-lined street, and watch it light up at night. Stop in one of the many salons, or purchase from high-end fashion labels. The street was once part of the Boston Harbor and was slowly filled in with dirt and fill from nearby neighborhoods over time.

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

The state house’s golden dome and brick front are visible from the Boston Common if you look up. Take a guided or self-guided tour of the Massachusetts State House for free on weekdays, and walk the marble-floored corridors with murals and portraits of the state’s important leaders lining the walls. Be sure to wander around the outside perimeter of the building to see the different architectural details.

Skywalk Observatory

Looking to see Boston from above? Then the Skywalk Observatory is the place to go. Look out over the city from the 50th floor of the Prudential Center. The views are stunning day or night.

Boston Symphony Orchestra

The Boston Symphony Orchestra is one of the five major American symphony orchestras, referred to as the ‘Big Five.’ The orchestra performs in the stately concert hall during the fall, winter and spring, but during the summer, it moves to Tanglewood in the Berkshires.

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

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.

Dana Forsythe contributed additional reporting to this article .

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21 BEST Things to Do in Boston [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Boston, Massachusetts!

Boston has as much history within its city limits as most states, and the city has long been on the bucket list of all those who have a fascination with the past.

It’s here you can venture to the birthplace of modern America and explore the nation’s first university. But beyond the landmarks and enchanting trails is a place of rich sporting roots, culture, and art.

Boston isn’t a tourist destination. Bold call, I know. It’s a city that needs to be lived in, and thus travellers should take every opportunity to explore as if they were a local.

Beyond the Freedom Trail, you’ll find a city that’s a joy to discover on foot. By doing so, you’ll explore streets and neighbourhoods that don’t end up in many travel guides.

Also check out this awesome 3 Days in Boston Itinerary before your trip!

Table of Contents

1) The Freedom Trail

2) isabella stewart gardner museum, 3) boston public garden, 4) franklin park zoo, 5) fenway park, 6) faneuil hall marketplace, 7) boston museum of fine arts, 8) the boston common, 9) boston tea party ships and museum, 10) the boston harbor, 11) uss constitution and bunker hill monument, 12) harvard university, 13) the north end, 14) boston public library, 15) new england aquarium, 16) duck tour, 17) boston public market, 18) john f. kennedy presidential library, 19) the back bay, 20) the boston harborwalk, 21) beacon hill, the best hostel in boston: hi boston, the best mid-range hotel in boston: boston hotel commonwealth, the best luxury hotel in boston: boston harbor hotel, the best things to do in boston.

Boston is an open-air reminder of the past. But what you’ll soon discover is there’s no shortage of gorgeous parks, excellent food, art and family fun.

Before we dive too deep though, we want to share a little budget tip we have to save some money while exploring Boston!

Pick yourself up a Boston CityPASS , which is essentially a discounted ticket that gets you entrance into many of the best attractions and activities in the city.

By buying the pass you’ll save 47% on the usual ticket prices, so it’s a big discount.

Let’s get started.

The Freedom Trail showcases the immense history of Boston Harbor, the site of the Boston Tea Party, the home of Paul Revere, the State House, and ancient ships.

The concentration of historic sites has few rivals in the United States, and you can see it all along the Freedom Trail.

The 2.5-mile path takes you through the heart of Boston, not only showcasing the city’s rich history but helping newcomers get their bearings.

With no elevation gain, it’s a breeze to walk along and could easily take under an hour. But with so many sites to see along the way, you’ll be taking regular breaks.

Begin at the Boston Common where you can pick up a map.

Your first stop will be the State House and the Old Granary Burying Ground, the resting place of John Hancock, Paul Revere, and Samuel Adams. You’ll continue on, passing Paul Revere’s house towards the Bunker Hill Monument.

It’s an incredible display of the past, but you’ll also discover much of downtown Boston from shops to restaurants and entertainment. Sign up for a guided tour or self-guided audio tour .

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is one of those rare places where the art is matched by the building’s beauty.

The gorgeous garden, impeccable architecture and eye-catching art are what make the museum one of the best things to do in Boston.

The museum was first developed by art aficionado Isabella Stewart in the 19th century.

The interior courtyard is something out of a fairytale with bright greens, blues, reds and oranges.

It’s a veritable palace with textiles, archways and, yes, incredible art. The mix makes it a must-see, even if you aren’t a big fan of art galleries.

As for the art itself, you’ll find 2,500 works, from sculptures and tapestries to furnishing and historic paintings.

• Location: 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115
• Opening hours: 11am to 5pm (W-F) 10am to 5pm (S-S)
• Site: https://www.gardnermuseum.org/

Read Next: Be sure to check out some of the best day trips from Boston !

Created towards the beginning of the 17th century, the Boston Public Garden has long been a fixture in local life.

Its old-time charm can still be seen today, despite receiving many facelifts through the decades.

The public garden is a pleasant place to go and escape the bustle of the Boston area.

Over the years, it has developed into a beautiful space, complete with almost 100 different plant species and ornate gardens that burst with colour from spring to fall.

If you’re looking for a romantic experience, the Boston Public Garden features a gorgeous lake.

Jump on board a swan boat and explore the waters alongside your skipper.

At the forefront of the Franklin Park Zoo’s mission is to inspire a love of nature and conserve our wild planet.

This helps separate the zoo from the run-of-the-mill zoos by allowing guests to learn more about the animals they see along the way.

There are several sections of the zoo to explore each separate into distinct habitats.

You’ll find grasslands and prairies home to wildebeests, lions and giraffes. There’s a tropical section where you’ll see crocodiles looming below the surface, along with hippos and monkeys.

If you love kangaroos, then you must see the Outback Trail, which also features New Zealand’s iconic kiwi bird.

Afterwards, explore the surrounding park or visit the nearby Arnold Arboretum.

If you have your Boston CityPASS , entrance is included!

• Location: 1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121
• Opening hours: 9am to 5pm (M-F) 9am to 6pm (S-S)
• Web: https://www.zoonewengland.org/franklin-park-zoo/

The home of one of America’s most storied sports franchises, Fenway Park, is a top Boston attraction.

The iconic stadium is renowned for its distinct shape, squished against the side of Lansdowne Street and as the home of the Green Monster.

From March to October, you’ll see fans from Boston and around the country converge on the stadium to watch the ball game.

Prior to the first pitch, street carts fire up and hot dogs are served in droves. Fenway Park quickly fills up, and the atmosphere captures your imagination.

If you can’t make it to a game, then embark on a walking tour of Fenway Park. This tour will showcase the history of the century-old stadium, the Boston Red Sox and even some of the original seats.

One of the best things to do in Boston when you’re feeling a little peckish is to head to the Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

It’s not just one marketplace either, in fact, it’s home to three markets that all offer something different for travellers.

The Faneuil Hall is along the Freedom Trail and has its own slice of American history. It was built in the 1740s and immediately designated as a public place.

The ground floor of the main hall is a market and once a place where significant figures gathered before the Revolutionary War.

To learn more, walk up to the fourth floor where you’ll find the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Museum.

The highlight of the marketplace, however, is the Quincy Market. Featuring dozens of food vendors enjoy a delicious lunch or stock up on artisan treats.

• Location: 1 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109
• Opening hours: 10am to 7pm (M-T) 10am to 9pm (F-Sat) 12pm to 6pm (Sun)
• Price: Free

Heading to NYC after Boston? Check out our 3 Days in New York City Itinerary !

Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is one of the nation’s most renowned art galleries. It harbors over 450,000 pieces that range from ancient artifacts, to captivating French Impressionist paintings and an impressive collection of historic and contemporary American art.

MOMA is Boston’s largest museum and a place that can easily take a full day to explore. But if you’re short on time, it’s simple to break it up into the eras or genres that take your interest.

These include relics, jewellery and tombs from ancient Egypt, manuscripts from Japan and China, along with your European classics from Van Gogh, Renoir and Monet.

Within the American Wing, you can take a trip back to the pre-Colombian era to see Modernist and Art déco work along the way.

• Location: 465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115
• Opening hours: 10am to 5pm (Thur, Sat, Sun) 10am to 10pm (Fri)
• Price: Adult $27 Child $10
• Web: https://www.mfa.org/

As the beginning of the Freedom Trail, the Boston Common is a popular starting point for many travellers. But it’s a worthy destination on its own and one worth enjoying for an hour or two.

Surrounded by highrises, the common is a beautiful urban green space and a place of peace among the city sprawl.

It’s one of the oldest public parks in the US and fittingly features a number of historic landmarks. These include the Central Burying Ground of 1756 and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

With spacious lawns, benches and even a wading pool, it’s a popular place to hang out in the summer. While in the winter, the Boston Common is fitted with an ice skating rink and is a magical spot to skate under the city lights.

It was here, along the Boston Harbor, that angry locals changed the course of history and set the United States on the path to independence.

On the 16th of December, 1773, city residents stormed the docks and threw tea into the water. What began as a protest on tax quickly turned into something much more.

I’ll leave the history lessons to your guides dressed in period costumes at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.

Here, you can board replicas of the original ships and, through a variety of fascinating displays and narration, learn all about that night and the months that followed.

The most memorable aspect of the experience, though, is when you can reenact that fateful night and dump your own tea into the harbor.

• Location: 306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210
• Opening hours: 10am to 5pm (Mon, Thur-Sun)
• Price: Adult $31.95 Child $23.95

Read Next: Looking for more US history? Be sure to check out our post on the best things to do in Washington, DC .

After all this time spent on historic ships but not getting out on the water, it’s time to explore the Boston Harbor.

Onboard the Odyssey you can cruise out into the harbor and see the beautiful skyline from a different perspective.

As you meander through the bay, you’ll cross paths with George and Castle islands on your way to the Boston Light. While at night, the towering buildings glisten against the water.

If you’re traveling to Boston from March to November, why not trade your cruise for a whale watching experience ?

Head out from downtown in search of humpback whales and dolphins with your knowledgeable guide providing ready to answer all your questions.

In a different part of the Boston Harbor is another ship-based experience. Near Bunker Hill lies the USS Constitution , which holds the nickname Old Ironsides.

It was built in 1797 and is the oldest commissioned ship in the nation. Today, the naval crew still helm the 2-centuries-old ship and it’s open for you to explore.

Going below deck, exploring Old Ironsides and learning about her experiences is one of the best things to do in Boston with kids.

But it doesn’t end there. On the other end of the pier is the ship’s museum. Enter to discover what life aboard the ship was like in the 18th century.

Finish up by walking to the 221-foot Bunker Hill Monument, which marks the spot of the first battle of the American Revolution.

• Location: Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA 02129
• Opening hours: 10am to 5pm (Mon -Sun)
• Price: Free, first come, first serve

Around 15 minutes from downtown Boston on the Red Line is the famous Harvard University.

Founded in 1636, it was the first university created in the United States. It has developed an international reputation and its hallowed grounds are a joy to explore.

Stepping out of the subway, you’ll find yourself at Harvard Square. Surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants, it harbors a unique atmosphere. There’s a sense of history and purpose among all the comings and goings.

Just a few steps to your right will be a gateway to the university, whose history sweeps you up the moment you enter.

The paths take you by centuries-old halls, past the John Harvard Statue to Harvard Yard on your way to several exceptional Harvard museums.

If you prefer a free guided tour, head to the Harvard Information Center .

Or get an in-depth guided tour with your Boston CityPASS .

Also known as Little Italy, Boston’s North End is a must-see neighborhood. It covers the speck of land that juts out into the harbor with the Charles River on the other side.

If you’ve completed the Freedom Trail, you would have seen the historic highlights of the North End, but be sure to return to experience its culinary brilliance.

The North End is one of the best places to eat in the city. There are almost 100 restaurants to choose between, all with their own flair and tasty treats.

But it isn’t all pizza and delicious pasta, you’ll find mouthwatering pastries at Mike’s Pastries and rows of charming cafes along Hanover Street.

In the Back Bay, the Boston Public Library is a place for history lovers and architectural aficionados.

The beautiful library was built in 1848 again in 1895. Upon opening, it became the United States’ first public library. You’ll find it on the edge of the green lawns of Copley Square.

After admiring its intricate facade of archways and towers, wander inside to find large paintings strewn across the hallowed walls, interior design inspired by Renaissance Revival and granite medallions placed along the entrance.

Continue on to explore the rest of the library, which also offers fun activities for the little ones.

You can also sign up for a free guided tour to learn all about the Boston Public Library.

• Location: 700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
• Opening hours: 9am to 8pm (Tue to Thur) 9am to 5pm (Fri-Sat)

If the little ones are growing restless, then bring them to one of the top Boston attractions. The New England Aquarium first opened in 1969 and is now home to over 550 marine species.

Entrance to the Aquarium is included with your Boston CityPASS , so you’ll save some money here too!

As you and the family wander around the aquarium, you’ll find coral reefs that are replicas of those found in the Caribbean. Floating around the coral are prismatic fish, eels, adorable turtles and fearsome sharks.

For an interactive experience, check out the Edge of the Sea exhibit. This allows you to touch sea creatures like urchins and starfish.

The aquarium is also home to harbor seal and whale watching tours. While you can learn all about nature at the resident IMAX Theater.

• Location: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
• Opening hours: 9am to 5pm (Mon-Fri) 9am to 6pm (Sat-Sun)
• Price: Adult $37 Child $28

The Boston Duck Tour is a quintessential thread in the fabric of the Massachusetts city. However, did you know they didn’t originate here, but instead in the Midwest?

This Boston tour did, though, take the experience to mainstream popularity and now it’s one of the most memorable Boston activities. The tours began in 1994. After starting with four, there are now 28 in service.

On this 80-minute tour , you’ll travel on the World War Two-style duck through the city’s streets on your to the Charles River. Sights include Bunker Hill, Newbury Street and Quincy Market.

After learning even more about Boston, the amphibious vehicle transitions as you enjoy beautiful views of both downtown and Cambridge from the water.

Alongside Faneuil Hall, the Boston Public Market is another way to shop for fresh produce. The indoor market operates year-round, every day of the week.

On the inside, you’ll discover around 30 producers and artisans from around New England. They’ll be selling fresh goods, handicrafts, tasty treats and delicious meals. All the products hail from the surrounding regions, with the items changing with the seasons.

Along with the rows of stalls, there are regular events, workshops and cooking classes. You can even join a tour of the market to learn about its humble beginnings and what’s on offer today.

The Boston Public Market, located at 100 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02108, is open Monday – Saturday, 8:00am – 6:00pm and Sunday 10:00am – 6:00pm.

Visiting more of the USA’s big cities? Check out this Chicago Travel Itinerary .

Celebrating the 35th President of the United States, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is an invaluable insight into the life of one of the most prominent figures in the 20th century.

The museum is a designated memorial of John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963. The museum opened in 1979 and features informative exhibits complete with memorabilia and photographs dedicated to his life and time in power.

Like many other presidential libraries, visitors will be able to relive JFK’s campaign trail, see what the Oval Office was like when he was President while learning more about First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and the rest of his family.

• Location: Columbia Point, Boston, MA 02125
• Opening hours: 10am to 4pm (Thur-Fri)
• Price: Adult $18 Child $10

Along the Charles River, Back Bay is another district that’s worth exploring in detail. On the banks of the Charles River, Back Bay has an old-time charm with a dense concentration of shops and restaurants that are aligned in a picturesque manner.

Back Bay is just west of downtown Boston and its urban planning was inspired by the streets of Paris. It has a sophisticated personality and a sense of beauty with small grass-soaked parks placed across the neighborhood.

Newbury Street runs through the center of Back Bay and presents travelers with some enticing shopping opportunities. Find upscale couturiers and jewelers among the cafe patios that are sent right from the Rue Cler.

Just steps away is the Public Garden, while at night, stick around for a performance at the Symphony Hall.

If you’re ever left wondering what to do in Boston, this next activity will be one to keep in your back pocket. The Boston Harborwalk is the perfect choice to fill in any gaps in the itinerary, as it is a lovely thing to do, day or night.

The city’s harborfront has seen many iterations since the 1600s. Once a bustling colonial port, the area had to be revitalized after the main port was moved further out into the bay.

Now the waterfront is a beautiful example of urban renewal and your leisurely stroll will bring you along the harbor through parks, by cafes and quiet residential streets.

The best section to walk is the North End. Here you’ll find a number of historic wharves, the Waterfront Park and the happening Seaport District.

Arguably the most beautiful neighborhood in Boston, Beacon Hill is one you’ll want to explore on foot. Located in South Boston, Beacon Hill has long been the locale of the wealthy, with the opulent brick homes showing just how wealthy.

Along the mossy cobblestone streets that make way for tree-lined brick paths. Above them is Greek Revival architecture. For the best of them, head to Louisburg Square, where the ornate homes all face the leafy gardens.

Visit the Nichols House Museum to learn all about life in Beacon Hill from the 17th to 19th century. The museum tells the stories of the uber-rich residents, complete with period furnishing and art.

Where to Stay in Boston

Well, there you have it, the best things to do in Boston. But before you pack your bags, let’s look at some of the top spots to stay.

At HI Boston , you’ll find yourself just minutes away from downtown and the beginning of the Freedom Trail. The hostel offers clean and modern amenities with all the things you need for a comfortable hostel stay.

In Fenway Kenmore, the Boston Hotel Commonwealth is just steps from the iconic stadium and only the Charles River separates you from Cambridge.

Your hotel room comes with a spa service, cable TV and a separate living area to relax. Guests will also have access to onsite dining and a fitness center.

At Rowes Wharf, the Boston Harbor Hotel is a five star experience with memorable views over the Boston Harbor.

Guest rooms come with a smart TV, coffee machines, mini bar and some offer a separate seating area. You’ll also have award-winning onsite dining and swimming pool.

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!

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 17, 2019  - 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

f11photo / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out these tours & activities around the Freedom Trail.

2. Fenway Park

Israel Pabon / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check details, prices and reviews here.

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

3. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Mark Zhu / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Boston Rowing Center

PurePhoto / Shutterstock

People in rowboats are a common sight in Boston.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Boston Common

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

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

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

Boston Common can make it happen!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Polcari’s Coffee

Page Light Studios / Shutterstock

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

One of the most famous is Polcari’s Coffee .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Emerald Necklace

Jay DeWinne / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bodega is a hidden shop in Boston.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Kendall Square

Elijah Lovkoff / Shutterstock

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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Boston makes history but, even now, we're still forging our identity. The spark that fueled the fight for American independence burns just as brightly today and inspires our food, beer, and not-so-dirty water. It’s built five-star stays and world-class venues accessible in all four seasons. 

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Experience the energy of Fenway Park, discover Boston's outdoor art scene, and attend a North End Feast - here's your ultimate summer bucket list in Boston.

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The Best Tourist Attractions and Places for Sightseeing in Boston

Top tourist attractions.

This post lists the top Boston attractions, including historic sites, museums, neighborhoods, parks, bus tours, boat tours, and our pay-what-you-like guided walking tours .

For more places to visit, see our post about the Best Things to Do in Boston .

We are local tour guides who lead hundreds of visitors and locals each week through the streets of Boston.

On every tour, there are always a few guests who ask us what other places in Boston they should visit.

We recommend the places on our list below because we’ve all been to them and have enjoyed them a lot!

We also considered the opinions of the roughly 16,000 members of our popular Boston Travel Tips Facebook group.

Our group consists of locals, expats, regular visitors, and newbies to Boston.

You don't need to join the group to read the posts, comments, and suggestions. You can even post a question yourself!

So check the group out once you are finished reading this post. 

TIP : Many of the items below are included for free or at a reduced rate on one or more of the Boston money-saving tourist attraction passes . 

1. Freedom Trail 

Boston is the birthplace of the American Revolution (1776-1783). The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking route that passes 16 sites that played a major role in the war.

Walking the Freedom Trail is an interactive way to learn about the Revolution, its key figures, and events.

The trail begins in downtown Boston and ends near the USS Constitution.

Just a few of the historic sites along the trail you’ll pass are Paul Revere’s House, the site of the Boston Massacre, Granary Burying Ground, the Old State House, and Faneuil Hall. 

If you’re interested in taking the trek, consider taking our pay-what-you-wish Freedom Trail walking tour or our Freedom Trail Self-Guided Tour .

If you're planning to enjoy this activity while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Downtown area .

2. Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market

Faneuil Hall is known as"the home of free speech" and America’s first town hall meeting was held here.

Built in 1743 originally for vendors to sell their goods, the building became a center of debates and demonstrations that led up to the Revolutionary War.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace includes four historic buildings: Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market.

The 200,000-square-foot marketplace is visited by both locals and tourists alike. There are over 70 vendors and retailers selling food, clothing, and more. 

During the holiday season, the marketplace is magical! See more about Christmas in Boston .

If you're planning to visit these places while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Downtown area .

3. Boston Common

Established in 1634, Boston Common is America’s oldest public park.

Starting in 1768, the British Redcoats encamped here for eight years. The Common is a stop along the Freedom Trail. 

The common is spread over 50 acres and has plenty of activities to enjoy. If you visit Boston in the winter months, you can go ice skating on Frog Pond . 

There is also a playground, a sports facility, baseball, tennis, and a stage/amphitheater for performance.

If you're planning to visit Boston Common while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Back Bay area.

Read more about Boston Common .

4. Boston Public Garden

Just across Charles Street from Boston Common is America’s first botanical garden established in 1837.

It was designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted who, together with Calvert Vaux, designed Central Park in NYC.

The gardens are filled with unusual plants, monuments, fountains, and the Swan Boats (see below).

If you're planning to visit the garden while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Beacon Hill area.

Find out more about the Boston Public Gardens .

5. Boston Harbor Boat Tours

Boston is perfect to see from the harbor which is why there are lots of great boat tours to choose from.

There are historic Boston sightseeing cruises , New England Harbor Cruises , whale-watching trips , dinner cruises , and even tall ship excursions !

Find the best tour for you by reading our post, Boston Harbor Boat Tours .

If you wish to take a boat tour while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Waterfront/Seaport area.

6. Swan Boat Rides

Perhaps not as exciting as a cruise, a ride on a Swan Boat in Boston Public Gardens is a tradition that dates back to 1877!

After strolling the gardens, a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat Tour is just the thing to rest your legs and cool off.

It’s one of Boston’s best activities for visitors with kids .

If you wish to take a boat tour while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the North End area.

7. Baseball At Fenway Park

Opened in 1912, Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. It’s home to the Boston Red Sox.

If you go see a game at this historic stadium, grab a seat on the stadium’s famous 37-foot-high green wall in left field known as the Green Monster. It’s the highest wall in the MLB.

Public tours are offered year-round, so baseball history fans can get a detailed look at Fenway’s past and present. Read more about Fenway Park Tours .

See what dates the home team is in town here and grab some tickets to a game!

If you're planning to enjoy a game or take a tour at Fenway Park, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Back Bay area.

8. Boston Bus Tours and Trolley Tours

Boston Duck Tours is the most popular bus tour and for good reason. Using World War II-style amphibious landing vehicles, these tours are part on land and part on the water!

Another tour option is to take a hop-on, hop-off tour that allows you to get off the bus at sites of interest and get back on when you like.

Read about the several companies that offer Hop-on-Hop-off Trolley Tours .

Note that many bus tours are included free with the purchase of a  Boston tourist attraction pass .

There are also night bus tours, TV and Movie bus tours, ghost bus tours, and many more. 

Find out about all the tours that are out there from our post, Boston Bus Tours: Which Are the Best?

If you are looking for a place to stay in Boston, you might consider watching our post on Where to Stay in Boston .

9. Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the very best Boston art museums.

With a collection of over 450,000 works of art, it is one of the largest art museums in the United States.

It was founded in 1870 and is one of the most visited art museums in the world.

Among its best exhibitions are its Egyptian Mummy collection, its ancient Greece works, and its Impressionist paintings.

There is also an impressive American Wing with paintings, decorative arts, furniture, and silver -- including silverwork from the great patriot Paul Revere.

If you're planning to visit the museum while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Back Bay area.

Read more about the Museum of Fine Arts .

10. USS Constitution Museum

The USS Constitution is one of six ships constructed as part of the Naval Act 1794. 

Nicknamed “Old Ironsides” after its heroic feats during the War of 1812, the ship is permanently docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard. 

You can tour the ship for free, though you must purchase a ticket to visit the museum. Learn how to visit the USS Constitution and Museum .

If you're planning to visit the museum while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the West End area.

11. The North End 

The North End is Boston’s oldest residential neighborhood. It has Colonial-era sites speckled throughout its streets. 

But the North End isn't only about colonial history. It’s also about the history of Italian-Americans

The first Italian immigrants settled in the neighborhood in the 1860s and the Italian population grew for over a century.

Today the neighborhood is less authentic and more about tourists, but there are still great places to eat and sites to see in the North End.

Our pay-what-you-wish North End and Little Italy tour takes you to the best sites while you hear stories about the colonial era, gangster times, and Italian pastry!

We also offer a self-guided tour .

If you're planning to visit this neighborhood while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the North End area.

12. Old State House

A stop along the Freedom Trail, the Old State House is the oldest surviving public building in Boston. 

When it was built in 1713 and called the Towne House, it was the hub of Boston’s civic life.

After the British were defeated and America was born, Towne House became the State House for Massachusetts until 1798, at which time the current State House was erected on Beacon Street.

The Old State House Museum’s exhibits offer insight into the years leading up to the American Revolution, the Boston Massacre, and the writing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. 

Read more about the Old State House Museum .

If you're planning to visit the house while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Beacon Hill area.

13. Paul Revere House

Paul Revere was a silversmith and, more importantly, a colonial patriot who took a midnight ride to warn the colonists of a British attack. 

This house where Revere lived is the oldest remaining building in Downtown Boston and you can take a tour of it as it is now a museum. 

Amazingly, 90% of the building's structure is original and the two upstairs rooms contain furniture that is believed to have belonged to the Revere family.

Buy tickets to tour the Paul Revere House . Note that the tour is included free with the Go City Boston All-Inclusive Pass.

If you're planning to visit the house while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the North End area.

14. Beacon Hill

This is one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods and has been the site of those active in fighting against slavery, and for religious freedom and equal rights. 

Its cobblestone lanes are lined with elegant Federal-period mansions and gas lamps. It’s also where you will find posh boutiques and excellent restaurants.

Our pay-what-you-wish Beacon Hill Crime Stories walking tour takes you beyond the pretty facade to tell you the tale of the Boston Strangler, the city's most notorious serial killer.

Explore the neighborhood with our Self-Guided Beacon Hill Walking Tour . This tour is also available as an audio tour!

If you're planning to visit this neighborhood while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Beacon Hill area.

15. Massachusetts State House

The current seat of the state’s government, the Massachusetts State House, was built in 1798.

Samuel Adams laid a cornerstone in 1795 and Paul Revere coppered the dome in 1802.

This National Historic Landmark is an architectural gem with marble-floored corridors and ceremonial rooms filled with paintings depicting Massachusetts’s history.

Free guided tours of the building and collections are led by volunteers. Read more here .

16. Granary Burying Ground

This is Boston's third oldest burial ground, opened in 1660 and named in 1737 for the Old Town Granary which once stood on the site of its neighbor, the Park Street Church.

Many of America’s patriots buried there include Paul Revere and three signers of the Declaration of Independence: Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Robert Treat Paine.

The Granary Burying Ground is a stop on our daily, pay-what-you-like guided tour of the Freedom Trail . We also have a self-guided tour of Granary Burying Ground .

If you're planning to visit the place while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Beacon Hill area.

17. Harvard University

Founded in 1636, Harvard University is the oldest college in the United States. It’s located in the City of Cambridge, just across the Charles River from Boston.

The campus houses both Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, two of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world.

This list of notable alumni is truly amazing. 

There are several ways to tour the campus.

We offer a pay-what-you-wish Harvard and Cambridge Walking Tour and we also have a self-guided Harvard University Walking Tour .

You may want to visit one of the excellent museums on campus like the MIT Museum and the Harvard Museum of Natural History .

If you're planning to visit the university while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Cambridge area.

18. Boston Public Library

Established in 1848, the Boston Public Library is not just a place to grab a good book, it’s a place of firsts.

It was the first large, free municipal library in the US. It was also the first public library to lend books.

Also, the library was the first major Beaux-Arts building in the United States completed in 1895 and was designed by renowned architect Chares McKim.

Not only is the building itself an architectural gem, but the interior is as well.

The Boston Public Library offers free art and architecture tours of the building a few times a week. Check the schedule here .

If you're planning to visit the library while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the South End area.

19. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Climb aboard an 18th-century replica ship for an immersive experience recreating that fateful December night in 1773 when the Sons of Liberty sparked the American Revolution by dumping their tea into Boston Harbor.

On a 1-hour tour, costumed actors take you back in time to learn about the history and impact of the Boston Tea Party.

In the end, you’ll start your own revolution by dumping tea into the Charles River!

If you're planning to enjoy the museum while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Waterfront/Seaport area.

20. Bunker Hill Monument & Museum

The Battle of Bunker Hill fought on June 17, 1775, was one of the first major battles of the American Revolutionary War. 

The monument is 221 feet tall and you can climb to the top for an excellent view of the city.

In addition to the landmark itself, there is also a free museum you can visit which provides access to the monument.

Read our post on the Bunker Hill Monument & Museum .

If you're planning to visit the monument while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Charlestown/Bunker area.

21. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Established in 1903, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a prized Boston institution. 

Its collection is expansive and includes works from Ancient Rome, Medieval Europe, the Islamic World, Renaissance Italy, and 19th-century France and America. 

If the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum sounds familiar, it's because in 1990 it was the scene of the single largest art heist in the world. 

The crime has never been solved. Fortunately, there are plenty of other pieces of art to see! 

Read more about the museum here .

If you're planning to enjoy the museum while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the South End area.

22. The Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library

The Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library is the only place in the world where one can walk through a 3-story stained-glass globe!

Because the Mapparium was created in 1935, the globe shows country borders and names as they were back then.

Visitors walk across a thirty-foot glass bridge passing through the center of the globe while a presentation using audio recordings, music, and LED lights illustrates how the world has changed since the 1930s.

Find out about visiting The Mapparium .

If you're planning to enjoy this attraction while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Back Bay area.

23. Newbury Street

Newbury Street between Arlington Street and Massachusetts Avenue is the place to go for shopaholics and foodies.

This 8-block stretch is filled with high-end boutiques like Burberry and Channel as well as international apparel chain stores.

The street itself is lined with historic brownstone buildings making it a lovely location for the many cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

See the Newbury Street website for a directory of shops and eateries.

If you're planning to visit the street while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Back Bay area.

24. New England Aquarium

Opened in 1969, the New England Aquarium is home to a multitude of sea life that includes species like northern fur seals, exotic jellyfish, giant Pacific octopuses, and thousands of saltwater and freshwater fish.

The highlight of the aquarium is its 200,000-gallon Giant Ocean Tank that replicates a coral reef environment.

As they pass through a spiral walkway around the tank, visitors get a close-up view of sharks, sea turtles, and schools of fish.

There is also an IMAX theater that shows films with aquatic themes. The aquarium offers whale-watching tours that can be combined with the cost of admission. 

Find out about getting tickets here .

If you're planning to enjoy this activity while in Boston, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the Downtown area.

25. Arnold Arboretum

The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, a botanical research center,  is like a living museum of tree and plant life. 

The Arboretum’s 281 acres which include forests, meadows, and ponds are open free to the public.

Established in 1872, this is North America’s first public arboretum. It’s also a National Historic Landmark.

Read more about the Arnold Arboretum .

If you're planning to enjoy this botanical research center, consider finding a place to stay in the Back Bay area.

26. The Cheers Bar

The bar which inspired the hit television series Cheers opened in 1969 as the low-key Bull and Finch.

It was discovered by Hollywood producers in 1981 and premiered in 1982 as Cheers, which ran for 11 years. 

Exposure from the TV show made Cheers the most famous bar in Boston. Why not go and grab a beer there? See our post on the Original Cheers Bar .

The bar is a stop on our self-guided Beacon Hill Tour and is just a 10-minute walk from our guided Beacon Hill Crime Tour .  

If you're planning to visit this bar, you might want to consider finding a place to stay in the West End area.

27. Back Bay

Just west of Boston Common, the Back Bay area is located along the Charles River.

This is one of the more well-liked places to stay while traveling to Boston because of its convenient location.

As a result, the region has many excellent hotels, and you can read more about them in our whole piece about where to stay in Back Bay.

A trip to the Boston Public Library and a baseball game at Fenway Park are just a few of the very popular outings in this area.

You can be confident that you'll be able to have a satisfying lunch while you're in Back Bay because there are so many excellent eateries around.

Consider watching our post on Where to Stay in Boston to get an idea of the best places to visit in Back Bay area.

ATTRACTIONS INCLUDED IN TOURIST PASSES

Many of the attractions in this post are included for free with a Boston tourist pass .

Below is a list of those attractions.

Go City Boston All-Inclusive Pass

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• Beacon Hill True Crime Tour
• Fenway Park Tour
• The Mapparium
• Franklin Park Zoo
• Swan Boat Tours
• New England Aquarium
• Boston Children’s Museum
• View Boston Observation Deck
• Museum of Science
• Paul Revere House
• Buckman Tavern
• Concord Museum
• Cape Cod Cruise
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Boston Harbor Cruise
• House of Seven Gables
• Harvard Walking Tour
• USS Constitution Cruise
• Old South Meeting House
• Old State House
• Liberty Ride Trolley Tours
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
• Harvard Museum of Natural History
• JFK Presidential Library & Museum
• Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology
• Peabody Essex Museum
• Freedom Trail Tour
• TD Garden Guided Tour
• Cape Cod Maritime Museum
• Sam Signature Experience
• Real Pirates Salem
• Bike Rental by Urban AdvenTours
• Boch Center Wang Theatre Tours
• Haunted Boston Walking Tour
• Historic Pub Crawl
• Historic Sightseeing Cruise
• Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II Combination Ticket
• Boston Movie Mile Walking Tour
• North End 'Little Italy' Food Tour
• Louisa May Alcott House
• Hop-on-Hop-off Trolley Tours

CityPASS Boston

Plus two of these attractions of your choice:

• Boston Harbor City Cruises
• View Boston Observatory

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For more details and an explanation of these passes, visit our post about Boston tourist passes .

TIPS FROM LOCALS AND TRAVELERS

We hope this post provided you with more than enough Boston activities and attractions for you to have a great trip.

Below we share the suggestions and tips for a visit to Boston from members of our Boston Travel Tips Facebook group.

These comments are from locals and travelers who love to share their experiences with others.

So many other group members feel the same and encourage visitors to walk the entire trail. At the end of the trail is the famous USS Constitution, another site in this post. 

Not only is it historic, it’s free to visit.

Besides walking the Freedom Trail, one of the most highly recommended activities by group members was taking a Duck Tour.

You might want to consider doing one at the beginning of your trip to get an overview of the city.

Then you can decide where you would like to return to and see more.

Note that the above group member advises you to book in advance to make sure it isn't sold out when you plan to take it.

There were also plenty of thumbs up for the Old Town Trolley tours.

If you are wondering how the Duck tour and Trolley tour stack up against each other, this group member explains the differences.

Harvard is synonymous with Boston. While a visit there doesn't come up at the top of everyone’s list, that has more to do with the fact that Boston has so much to do, and not that a trip there isn't nice.

As these group members suggest, you might want to combine a walk around the area with some shopping and dining.

Among the other top places to visit are the Swan boats at Boston Common, Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. 

As you can see, the street performers and musicians are one of the top attractions.

If you are in town between April and October and a half half a day to spend on one activity, make it whale-watching. 

These group members were deeply moved by the experience.

If you are looking for things to see that are not about history, Newbury Street is a place to check out.

After you explore the neighborhood, you can continue to some other sites like two of Boston’s best green spaces.

Charming Beacon Hill is worth a visit too and you can add it to teh tail end of a visit to Newbury Street.

This group member suggests a nice mini-itinerary!

Boston has a wonderful array of museums for people of all ages. The one that gets high marks from just about everyone is the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

If you are in town with kids, there are plenty of activities including museums, historical sites and shopping.

For ages five and under, the top places to visit are the Children’s Museum and the Aquarium, while the Science Museum was not recommended for very young children.

For the teens and tweens museums were often recommended.

Depending on what your kids are interested in, going to a museum might be the best choice, though for others, Fenway Park was suggested.

Seeing the Red Sox at Fenway isn't just for the kids though.

This group member rates Fenway up there with Duck Tours and we know how popular they are, so seeing a Red Sox game has got to be great!

If you have any more questions about the best places to visit in Boston -- or anything else about the city -- check out our Boston Travel Tips Facebook group!

Related Posts

• Free Things To Do in Boston
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50 Years of ‘Best of Boston’: City Life

In honor of this year's 50th anniversary of Best of Boston, we're taking a look back. This month: civic improvements, tourist attractions and viral moments.

Get a compelling long read and must-have lifestyle tips in your inbox every Sunday morning — great with coffee!

Photo by Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/ Boston Herald

Best Disease

Mononucleosis. “The only cure: rest in bed.”

Photo by Stan Grossfeld/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Best Tourist Attraction

Quincy Market. This downtown icon has been around since the 1800s, but it wasn’t until a multimillion-dollar restoration in the 1970s that it became the retail and dining hub it is today. Even then, though, Boston recognized its appeal among out-of-towners, calling it “Disneyland for consumers.”

Best Place to Meet Pols

The Last Hurrah. “They like the name.”

Best Resource, Local, Revamped

The Boston Public Library System “Look what money can do: all the branches are open again, the librarians don’t snap at you anymore, and the books are in their proper places on the shelves.”

Best Evening Strolls

Castle Island. Fifteen years before Whitey Bulger was nabbed in California, we honored his former stomping grounds, noting that “If you happen to run across him now while on your daily constitutional, we hear there’s a reward.”

Best Broker, Rentals

Sheila Golden, Itzkan & Marchiel. It seems not much has changed when it comes to finding a place to call home. “Oh what fresh hell is renting an apartment in this overcharged Boston real estate scene,” our intrepid researchers complained in 2000. Thankfully, Y2K lessees had Sheila Golden as their sherpa. She’s “in the know when it comes to finding apartments before they hit the market,” they noted.

Photo via Getty Images

Best Family Hangout, Fair-Weather

Franklin Park Zoo. “Sometimes pushing a stroller through the mall feels like navigating a herd of wildebeest; an afternoon at the playground, like dodging wild chimpanzees. On these days, wise parents escape to more civilized environs—namely, this parklike turn-of-the-century zoo, which offers 72 acres’ worth of roaming room.”

Photo by David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Best Viral Moment

The “Rescued” Red Sox Banner. Remember the days when holding a lost Sox banner for pseudo-ransom was big news? We certainly do. In 2018, two fans named Louie Iacuzzi and James Amaral captivated Greater Boston in a viral video recorded by the Boston Globe . “We need to negotiate heah ,” Iacuzzi said to the camera after finding the treasured signage on McGrath Highway in Somerville. As the editors at the time said, “They got squat, but we got a good, hearty laugh.”

Photo by Simon Bruty/Anychance/Getty Images

Best Bittersweet Goodbye

Tom Brady Leaves the Patriots. “Did the GOAT jump the fence out of the Patriots’ pasture, or did Farmer Bill kick him out the gate? We probably won’t know until the best quarterback ever and the best NFL coach ever are long retired and finally start giving candid interviews. Either way, this much is undeniable: Our former Number 12 now looks hideously off-putting in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ red, orange, and pewter jersey.”

Photo by Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald

Best Long-Awaited Civic Improvement

Green Line Extension. We waited, we waited, and then we waited some more. And then, finally, the Green Line Extension to Somerville and Medford was unveiled. “Given the T’s well-documented struggles, it’s nice to see the beleaguered agency get a win for once, even if it is after a decadeslong financial and logistical boondoggle,” we wrote at the time. As we know now, that win was short-lived.

First published in the print edition of the  June 2024 issue with the headline, “BOB 50: City Life.”

• Best of Boston
• Best of Boston 50
• Boston Public Library
• Franklin Park Zoo
• Quincy Market

Top Places to Live 2024: Where to Find a Deal in Greater Boston’s Sky-High Market

How To Save the Planet

An Early-Risers Guide to Boston

Boston’s Downtown Real Estate Is Collapsing. This Is Ominous.

16 restaurants worth the drive to portland, maine, our guide to the 12 best restaurants on nantucket, portland’s sea bags sets sail with sustainable style, who is “free karen read” blogger aidan “turtleboy” kearney, in this section.

Best Area of Boston to Stay In (7 Options)

I definitely recommend that families make at least one trip to my home state of Massachusetts and our lovely capital city of Boston. There is so much to do in Boston with kids – including museums, historic attractions, and of course, Fenway Park. It’s got so much history but is also a beautiful city with delicious restaurants, fun shops, and great museums.

If you are planning a trip to Boston, you may be wondering what neighborhoods to stay in around Boston. There are so many options depending on what you plan to do on your trip. Here are my thoughts on the best area of Boston to stay in.

I have stayed in a few hotels in Boston over the years at no cost for review. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you.

Best Area of Boston to Stay In (Best Boston Neighborhoods)

The seaport district.

The Seaport District is one of Boston’s newest neighborhoods, and so it’s constantly evolving. My son and I stayed at the Element Boston Hotel a few months ago for a complimentary stay and loved the amount of space we had in our room. Families may find more affordable accommodations in the Seaport, and as a bonus, it’s located near the Boston Children’s Museum.

Keep in mind, however, that you’ll need to take cabs to get around the rest of the city, however, since there isn’t much in the way of public transportation in the area. It’s an area that is constantly changing and there are new hotels and restaurants constantly popping up.

If you are taking a cruise out of the Flynn Cruiseport Terminal in Boston, this may be a nice place to stay before or after your cruise. While it won’t necessarily be within walking distance of your hotel, it is pretty close.

Popular hotels in this area include the Westin Seaport , the Seaport Hotel , and the Element Boston .

Cambridge isn’t technically Boston, but it’s located across the Charles River. There are plenty of great restaurants and shops in the various Cambridge neighborhoods, but it’s less touristy than other areas in and around Boston.

Be sure to visit Harvard University during your Boston family vacation. The Boston Museum of Science is also located right nearby. Even if you stay in Boston, not Cambridge, it’s worth visiting for a day. 

It’s so close to Boston, but it also has a different feel. Public transportation on the MBTA red line easily will get you from Boston to Cambridge (and back) so it’s very convenient to visit for the day.

Popular hotels include the Charles Hotel and the Kimpton Marlowe .

Faneuil Hall/North End

Faneuil Hall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Boston, although the whole area (including Quincy Market) does tend to resemble a shopping mall. Bordered by the Boston waterfront, the Financial District, and the North End (the Italian neighborhood of Boston), it can be one of the best areas to stay in around Boston.

It’s such a central location, making it very convenient. We loved our stay at the Bostonian Hotel, which is within walking distance of many Boston tourist attractions and historic sites, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. In addition, public transportation is easily accessible in this area.

Also near Faneuil Hall and the North End is the Boston waterfront, where you’ll find some popular waterfront hotels like the Boston Harbor Hotel and the Marriott Long Wharf . In the summer, this can be an absolutely beautiful spot to stay in, and it’s convenient to the New England Aquarium and the ferry terminal for the Boston Harbor Islands.  

Faneuil Hall is close to both Boston’s North Station and South Station, so if you are coming in by train, it will be a short ride by cab or rideshare. Guests staying in this area will probably find that they won’t need a car for most places they visit because public transportation is a good option.

Even if you aren’t staying in this neighborhood, we recommend visiting Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. They are popular, iconic parts of the city.

The Financial District

The Financial District of Boston is a small area of downtown Boston that is lively during the week and quieter on the weekends. Unless you are specifically planning to visit a business in the area, we don’t recommend staying there.

While it is a nice environment, you’ll probably find that most of the cafes and shops in the area are only open during working hours, and have limited weekend hours. Other areas of the city mentioned here are more popular tourist destinations and will have more things to do while you are visiting.

Back Bay/Copley

The Back Bay and Copley area are located near a variety of hotels, thanks to the tourists generated by Copley Plaza, Copley Square, Hynes Convention Center, the Boston Public Library, the Boston Public Garden, and Newbury Street. This is a very popular area of the city.

It’s so convenient to public transportation, so you can easily take the T to just about anywhere you’ll want to go. It’s also located along Boylston Street, which is one of the busier roads in Boston and is where the Boston Marathon ends. If you want to be in the center of town, the Back Bay neighborhood is a great option. It’s one of the best neighborhoods in Boston.

This area contains some great luxury and high-end hotels, including the Westin Copley Place , Fairmont Copley Plaza , and the Newbury Hotel . It’s a nice area to walk around and also includes many fantastic restaurants and shops. If you are taking the train, Boston’s Back Bay Station is located in this neighborhood.

The Theater District/Boston Common

Right near the Back Bay/Copley area is the Theater District and adjacent Boston Common/Boston Public Garden. Named for the number of theaters in the area, this is a great place to stay if you want easy access to the Boston Public Garden as well as all of the wonderful live theaters we have in the city.

This area is also near Tufts Medical Center and borders the Chinatown neighborhood. The area surrounding the Boston Common is home to many of the most luxurious hotels in the city, including the Four Seasons Boston and the Ritz-Carlton Boston .

We’d recommend staying on this side of the neighborhood (rather than the theater district), which is also fairly close to the Massachusetts State House, part of the Freedom Trail, Beacon Hill, Charles Street, and the original Cheers bar. You can walk around the area easily and can also take public transportation conveniently located in the area.

Do you have baseball fans in your family? The Fenway neighborhood, which is also located near Boston University, is located right near Fenway Park, which is right in the heart of the city.

It’s also not too far from other attractions including the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Northeastern University, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and Wentworth University.

The Fenway/Kenmore Square area is also near the Back Bay, Newbury Street, and the new Time Out Boston Market and is located on public transportation. It’s become a popular part of the city but isn’t quite as central as the Back Bay area.

Neighboring Suburbs

Some families find that it’s much less expensive to stay in the local suburbs, rather than right in the city. Some options include Natick (home to the Natick Mall – the largest mall in New England), Waltham, Burlington, and Newton. Another hotspot is Somerville, MA, where you’ll be near the Legoland Discovery Center.

These towns/cities may have some public transportation options, but they are less convenient than the city hotels. However, they can be a great option if you are on a budget. I would recommend having a car if you do stay in a suburb.

Getting to Boston For Your Vacation

Boston is a very convenient city to visit, whether you are driving, taking the train, or flying. If you do drive, you may choose to park your car at the hotel and take public transportation around as you sightsee.

Parking at some of the more popular attractions can be expensive and tough to find. It’s usually easier to walk or take the T (which is not too difficult to navigate).

Planning on flying? Boston’s Logan International Airport isn’t too far from downtown Boston. While you can rent a car at the airport ( see prices here ), you may not need one, unless you plan to drive beyond the city.

There are also three train stations in Boston. While all offer commuter rail trains to various suburbs, they all also have Amtrak service. North Station, near the Boston Garden, offers the Downeaster, which has service to Maine. South Station and Back Bay station offer the Acela and the Northeast Corridor regional, with service to major Northeast destinations including NYC, Philadelphia, and Washington DC.

The post Best Area of Boston to Stay In (7 Options) appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

Things to do around Boston this weekend and beyond

Pop & Rock

KNOCKED LOOSE “You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To,” the latest album from these Kentucky metallers, is brutal and catchy, its jagged riffs and bludgeoning drums bringing full catharsis. May 31, 7 p.m. Roadrunner Boston. roadrunnerboston.com

SHABOOZEY This Virginia-born singer’s sturdy voice and everyperson charm made him a valuable presence on Beyoncé's country-fried “COWBOY CARTER” and are key to his top-five single “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which transforms J-Kwon’s 2004 hip-hop hit “Tipsy” into the fulcrum for a breezy, fiddle-aided drinking anthem. His debut full-length, “Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going,” is out Friday, and he’s the clear highlight of this year’s Kiss Concert lineup, which is headlined by hip-hop provocateur Doja Cat and also includes nu-metal stalwarts Shinedown and TikTok-beloved pop-R&B smoothie Jason Derulo. June 1, 6:30 p.m. Xfinity Center, Mansfield. 800-745-3000, livenation.com

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G FLIP Australian drummer, singer, and songwriter Georgia Flipo pairs her strummy, percussion-minded music with open lyrics; check out her dreamy yet chugging take on Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer,” which is a perfect fit for her rhythm-forward vocal style. June 4, 7 p.m., Big Night Live. bignight.com

MAURA JOHNSTON

Folk, World & Country

HUBBY JENKINS The wheelhouse for one-time Carolina Chocolate Drops member and multi-instrumentalist Hubby Jenkins — banjo, guitar, mandolin, and bones are all within his ken — is old-time American string band music, more specifically the various threads of African American history that manifest themselves in country blues, traditional jazz, and elsewhere. May 31, 9 p.m. $20. The Porch Southern, 175 Rivers Edge Drive, Medford. 781-874-9357, www.theporchsouthern.com

MARISA ANDERSON American fingerstyle guitar titan Marisa Anderson takes what would seem to be disparate musical styles (from folk and blues to drone and classical) and welds them into something wholly her own. Her latest is a relatively unalloyed (for her), utterly gorgeous foray into soundtrack, for the movie “A Perfect Day for Caribou.” June 2, 8 p.m. $12. Deep Cuts, 21 Main St., Medford. 781-219-3815, deepcuts.rocks

MIDWOOD This Brooklyn band, which brings together stellar practitioners in the klezmer world, offers a cross-pollination of klezmer and other forms and ends up with what it describes as Yiddish psych rock. June 2, 4 p.m. $20. The Burren, 247 Elm St., Somerville. 617-776-6896, www.burren.com

STUART MUNRO

Jazz & Blues

LEO BLANCO TRIO The brilliant Venezuelan pianist and band play a program entitled “Latinious Monk: A Tribute to Thelonious Monk,” where they tease out the Latin implications of the master’s seminal compositions. June 1, noon. Free. Roxbury Branch, Boston Public Library, Fellowes Hall, 149 Dudley St., Roxbury. celebrityseries.org/productions/leo-blanco-trio

TARBOX RAMBLERS The acclaimed Boston-based band, featuring Michael Tarbox’s gravelly voice and barbed-wire guitar, melds blues, gospel, and Appalachian folk for a visceral take on American roots music. Among others, Robert Plant is a big fan! June 1, 8 p.m. $30-$33. Narrows Center for the Arts, 16 Anawan St., Fall River. narrowscenter.org

THE AARDVARK JAZZ ORCHESTRA: SALUTE TO DUKE ELLINGTON Boston’s own venerable, vibrant big band, led by trumpeter/composer Mark Harvey, performs compositions by the greatest of them all, the Shakespeare of Jazz, the supreme Edward Kennedy Ellington and his magnificent collaborator, Billy Strayhorn. With wonderful pianist Tim Ray. June 6, 7:15 p.m. $50 (can be streamed for free with advance RSVP). WGBH Studios, 1 Guest St., Brighton. wgbh.org/events

KEVIN LOWENTHAL

DINOSAUR ANNEX The local new music ensemble puts a bow on its 49th season with “Coast to Coast,” a program of contemporary American chamber pieces by composers from the east, west, and southern coasts. Featured composers include Boston-based Curtis Hughes and Kathryn Salfelder, as well as Richard Festinger, Dwight Banks, and Andre Myers. June 1, 7:30 p.m. Goethe-Institut Boston. www.dinosaurannex.org

EMMANUEL MUSIC The Emmanuel crew is heading to Leipzig for the city’s famed annual Bachfest, but before they get on the plane, they’re warming up with a concert featuring four Bach cantatas and new motets inspired by those cantatas from composers Errolyn Wallen, John Harbison, Marti Epstein, and Elena Ruehr. June 5, 7 p.m. Emmanuel Church. 617-536-3356, www.emmanuelmusic.org

GARRICK OHLSSON The annual Rockport Chamber Music Festival kicks off with a solo recital by the towering pianist Garrick Ohlsson, featuring music by Beethoven, Schubert, and Ohlsson’s specialty, Chopin. June 7, 7:30 p.m. Shalin Liu Performance Center, Rockport. 978-546-7391, www.rockportmusic.org

A.Z. MADONNA

TONI STONE Playwright Lydia R. Diamond (“Stick Fly,” “Smart People”) structures her drama of the first woman to play professional baseball as a memory play told in the first person. As Stone, who played for the Indianapolis Clowns in the Negro Leagues, Jennifer Mogbock is a force of nature, describing her single-minded quest to play ball with expressive reactions and physical prowess. Award-winning choreographer Ebony Williams creates jaw-droppingly good production numbers — including juggling, gymnastics, and balancing acts — for the game-time moments when the team performs their minstrel-meets-vaudeville routines. Through June 16. Presented by the Huntington. At the Huntington Theatre. www.huntingtontheatre.org

GATSBY This world premiere of this pre-Broadway musical, which is spending the summer at the American Repertory Theater, has already achieved supergroup status, thanks to the bevy of award-winning creatives involved. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s poignant tale of the illusory American Dream includes songs by Florence Welch of Florence + The Machine and Thomas Bartlett (a.k.a. Doveman), and a book by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Martyna Majok (“The Cost of Living”). The production also boasts a couple of Tony Award winners in director Rachel Chavkin (“Hadestown,” “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812″) and choreographer Sonya Tayeh (”Moulin Rouge!”). Through Aug. 3. Presented by the American Repertory Theater. At Loeb Drama Center, Cambridge. 617-547-8300, americanrepertorytheater.org

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF One family’s struggle to hold onto traditional values in a fast-changing world mixes laughter and love amid heartbreak and separation. With songs that include “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Tradition,” and “If I Were a Rich Man,” the story, set in a Jewish shtetl around 1905, holds a universal message about prejudice, generational clashes, and the resilience of the human spirit. And it offers the chance to see Boston favorites Kathy St. George and Mary Callanan. June 4-16. Presented by North Shore Music Theatre, Beverly. nsmt.org

TERRY BYRNE

MIXED NUTS The fledgling dance/music collective Pistachio Groove presents its first full evening of new work. The concert features tap dance unfolding in the context of live music by a four-piece band. Each work explores the possibilities within a central groove or time step and emphasizes the connection and improvisatory interplay between dancers and musicians. June 1-2. $25 (Sunday performance also live streamed.) Dance Complex, Cambridge. www.dancecomplex.org

BOSTON DANCE THEATER If you missed the Global Arts Live presentation of the company several weeks ago, you have another chance to catch the talented contemporary troupe’s “Pinnacle Works: Galili, Goecke, and Pereira” in New Hampshire. The program includes two recent premieres by the Denmark-based Brazilian choreographer Alessandro Sousa Pereira, as well as Goecke’s “Peekaboo,” “Firebird,” and “Äffi,” along with company co-director Itzik Galili’s “If As If.” May 31-June 1. $25. 3S Artspace, Portsmouth, N.H. www.3sarts.org/events

KHELNA IN CONCERT Boston-based kathak artist Anjali Nath culminates her Khelna (Play) series of community workshops and festivities with this evening performance that weaves together the ancient traditions of kathak dance with the joyful spirit of play. The concert also features international master musician from India Jayanta Banerjee (sitar) and Satyaprakash Mishra (tabla). June 1. $15-$151. Boston University Dance Theater. www.anjali-nath.com

DANCES IN PROGRESS A showcase and feedback session for local choreographers, this event gives dancemakers a venue for performing fledgling works while seeing how audiences respond to new ideas. This incarnation features pieces in progress by Ananth Udupa, Andrea Muñiz, Charles Murrell III, Miranda Lawson, Nicole Zizzi, and Nko Fallou Small. May 31. Free or by donation. Jackson Dance Lab at Tufts University, Medford. https://givebutter.com/dip

KAREN CAMPBELL

IMAGINE ME AND YOU: DUTCH AND FLEMISH ENCOUNTERS WITH THE ISLAMIC WORLD, 1450-1750 An elucidation of the underexplored cultural exchange that took place between an ascendant Netherlandish world of the Northern Renaissance and the ancient societies of the Islamic world, this exhibition gathers more than 100 objects to explore how these rising powers of Western Europe both influenced and absorbed the rich cultural legacies of empires like the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal that concurrently controlled much of Central and Southeast Europe, North Africa, and South, West, and Central Asia. Through Aug. 18. Harvard Art Museums, 32 Quincy St., Cambridge. 617-495-9400, www.harvardartmuseums.org

ETHIOPIA AT THE CROSSROADS Exploring 2,000 years of cultural heritage right up to the present day, this exhibition brings together more than 200 pieces including painted religious icons, illuminated manuscripts, gospel books, coins, metalwork, and carvings from a region that has served as a significant cultural crossroads between east and west for millenia. The exhibition also includes works by contemporary Ethiopian artists including Julie Mehretu, Helina Metaferia, Aïda Muluneh, and Elias Sime. Through July 7. Peabody Essex Museum, 161 Essex St., Salem. 978-745-9500, PEM.org

LORRAINE O’GRADY: BOTH/AND Last chance: Boston-born O’Grady, a child of Jamaican immigrants, made her name in the New York art world of the 1970s and ‘80s for her provocative public performances as her alter-ego, Madamoislle Bourgeoise Noire, a Black debutante in long white gown and gloves critical of both the lack of Black artists in museums, and of Black artists themselves for making work she deemed to be safe and placating. Decades later, O’Grady has become an icon for artists that have come after her; this career survey unfurls a life’s work of unflinching critical work that engages feminism, racial justice, and the complex intertwining of those things with her immigrant background. Through June 2. The Davis Museum at Wellesley College, 106 Central St., Wellesley. 781-283-2051, www.wellesley.edu/davismuseum

MURRAY WHYTE

INNER WORKINGS When painter Diana Zipeto was a child, her father collected bits and bobs of hardware to use for home repair. Some of those metal pieces, along with strips of canvas, are now fastened to the artist’s large-scale paintings depicting the MRIs of her father’s brain that led to a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. She made them as a way to grapple with his experience and her grief. On Saturday, June 1, Zipeto will give an artist’s talk at 2 p.m., during the closing reception. But don’t worry, the show is open for another week. Through June 8. 2nd Floor Mini Gallery, Western Avenue Studios, 122 Western Ave., Lowell. www.dianazipeto.com/exhibitsshows/2024/4/27/inner-workings-gallery-at-western-avenue-studios

CATE McQUAID

WILL NOONAN A longtime Boston headliner, Noonan tops the bill at Giggles for the first time. Featuring Andrew Della Volpe and Matt Misci on Friday and Carolyn Plummer and Greg Howell on Saturday. May 31-June 1, 8:30 p.m. $30. Giggles Comedy Club at Prince Restaurant, 517 Broadway (Route 1), Saugus. 978-395-9060, .princerestaurant.com/giggles-events/

BRIEANA WOODWARD Whirling dervish Woodward plays her first full headlining weekend at Nick’s, fresh off of her “2 Clowns 1 Car” tour with “Clown People” podcast cohost Al Christakis, who’s the featured comic here. Hosted by Kathy Lynch. May 31-June 1, 8 p.m. $15.40-$22. Nick’s Comedy Stop, 100 Warrenton St. nickscomedystop.com

MEN IN COMEDY PRESENT: RECRUIT INITIATION Amma Marfo headlines this stand-up showcase that also features five newbie recruit comics — Sky Nickels, Nora Bauso, Adine DeLeon, Kathleen Meditz, and Melissa Moscoco — competing to win a scented candle. Bini Oyi, Laith Alsasah, and Viv Martin from the all-femme Men In Comedy troupe will also perform. June 1, 8:30 p.m. Free. GrandTen Distilling, 383 Dorchester Ave. eventbrite.com

NICK A. ZAINO III

POND EXPLORATION IN FRANKLIN PARK Children of all ages are invited to Scarboro Pond for a hands-on event exploring its ecosystem and inhabitants. The Emerald Necklace Conservatory and Mass Audubon will lead kids through an exploration of pond life and water quality. Registration required. June 1, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Franklin Park, Franklin Park Road. emeraldnecklace.org

SOMERSTREETS: CARNAVAL SomerStreets: Carnaval returns to the city on Sunday to kick off the 2024 SomerStreets season. This weekend, celebrate the East Broadway Business District with food, music, and activities. Programming extends from Kensington Avenue to Pennsylvania Avenue, and begins at 2 p.m. with a parade starting at Garfield and Broadway. June 2, 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Free. East Somerville on Broadway, 151 Broadway, Somerville. somervilleartscouncil.org

POWWOW AND THE PEOPLE WHO BRING IT TO LIFE Join Indigenous Peoples Day Newton to experience “Powwow and the People Who Bring It to Life,” a display of photographs shot by locals Scott Strong Hawk Foster and Rob Adelman depicting Native American powwows. A reception on Saturday invites attendees to mingle with the photographers and other community members and explore powwow culture. June 6-8, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Free. New Art Center at TRIO, 245 Walnut St., Newtonville. calendar.artsboston.org

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Boston

Things to do in boston.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Financial District
• Fenway / Kenmore
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Fenway Park

2. Freedom Trail

3. Museum of Fine Arts

4. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

5. Boston Public Garden

6. North End

7. Boston Public Library

8. John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library

9. Boston Common

10. Samuel Adams Brewery

11. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

12. USS Constitution

13. Beacon Hill

14. Newbury Street

15. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

16. New England Holocaust Memorial

17. USS Constitution Museum

18. Old North Church & Historic Site

19. Museum of Science

20. Waterfront

21. Quincy Market

22. New England Aquarium

23. TD Garden

24. Granary Burying Ground

25. The Mapparium

26. Old State House

27. Bunker Hill Monument

28. Prudential Center

29. Charles River Esplanade

30. Arnold Arboretum

What travellers are saying.

Atlanta Braves vs. Boston Red Sox Prediction, Odds, MLB Picks [6/4/2024]

The Boston Red Sox and Atlanta Braves will meet in MLB action at Fenway Park on Tuesday, starting at 7:10PM ET.

Kutter Crawford (2-4, 3.29 ERA) will get the ball for the Red Sox, while the Braves have opted for Max Fried (5-2, 2.97 ERA).

Dimers.com 's comprehensive preview of Tuesday's Braves vs. Red Sox matchup includes our prediction, picks and the latest betting odds.

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Braves vs. Red Sox Prediction: Who Will Win, Cover the Run Line

We have used advanced machine learning and statistics to simulate the result of Tuesday's MLB matchup between the Braves and Red Sox 10,000 times, in keeping with our coverage of MLB predictions .

Our leading predictive analytics model gives the Braves a 59% chance of beating the Red Sox .

According to our model, the Red Sox (+1.5) have a 54% chance of covering the run line , while the over/under total of 8 runs has a 53% chance of going over .

Braves vs. Red Sox Odds [6/4/2024]

We have researched the best betting odds in America for this game, which are listed here:

All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.

Braves vs. Red Sox Picks

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Braves vs. Red Sox Game Information

Tuesday's MLB game between the Red Sox and Braves at Fenway Park is scheduled to commence at 7:10PM ET.

• Who: Atlanta Braves vs. Boston Red Sox
• Date: Tuesday, June 4, 2024
• Time: 7:10PM ET / 4:10PM PT
• Venue: Fenway Park

Our full betting coverage of the Braves vs. Red Sox includes pregame predictions, betting picks and live win probabilities.

Calling Our Shot: Best Bets

Calling Our Shot produces daily MLB betting content, including the predictions featured below.

We predict the Braves, with a 59% win probability, will likely beat the Red Sox on Tuesday.

AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Braves vs. Red Sox insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality . Our predictions are sourced from current data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling , please call 1-800-GAMBLER.

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Stay well-informed with the latest MLB news and our data-led MLB picks and parlays all season long. Plus, our World Series odds give you the latest projections and the best available odds on the World Series, American League, National League, and each division.

Jason Bevilacqua has a deep-rooted passion for sports and has been actively involved in sports betting for many years. Specializing in the MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS, and NFL, Jason delivers engaging game previews across these leagues. His expertise is particularly evident in his best bets for MLB, NHL, and college basketball. Additionally, Jason contributes valuable MLB and NFL props, as well as NBA first basket plays. 

Since joining Dimers in 2020 as the Head of Social and Community, Jason has also made significant contributions to the editorial department, offering daily articles that are not only well-researched but also deeply insightful. His strategic approach and collaboration with DimersBOT ensure his betting advice is top-notch.

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7 National Park Sites That Celebrate LGBTQ+ Heritage

While some parks may not have monuments celebrating LGBTQ heritage, they find other ways to celebrate and support the community!

• US national parks offer a rich LGBTQ+ history beyond nature, celebrating resilience and movements.
• Historic sites like Fire Island and President's Park commemorate LGBTQ+ moments and culture.
• National parks like Golden Gate and NPS sites in Alaska create inclusive environments with special events.

Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, historical battlefields, and national parks with epic hikes , the NPS offers a surprising window into the rich history of American social movements. Often overlooked, the LGBTQ+ community has a vibrant history woven into the fabric of these protected spaces.

Of course, there is no lack of amazing cities to celebrate Pride as well as LGBTQ-friendly destinations around the world that preserve the community's history. However, America's national park system also hosts its own celebrations for LGBTQ+ people and the community.

From hidden narratives of resilience to unexpected safe havens, many places within US national parks have witnessed historical LGBTQ+ moments, and many of them honor, remember, commemorate, and celebrate the community today, especially during Pride month.

While some parks may not boast towering monuments or dedicated buildings celebrating LGBTQ heritage, they find other ways to celebrate and support the community. Be sure to check out these US national park sites that celebrate LGBTQ heritage today, from seaside spots in New York to hidden gem historical trails and many more.

7 Underrated But Colorful Pride Parades To Attend In 2024

7 fire island national seashore, new york, before the stonewall riots, it offered a space for the lgbtq+ community to be free.

Fire Island is often touted as a quieter alternative to the Hamptons , but it has also been historically important to the LGBTQ+ community since the early 1900s. The place is considered an early haven for the community, which could enjoy freedom before the Stonewall Riots.

Two sites within the national park are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, thanks to their importance to LGBTQ+ history. The Carrington House, owned by Frank Carrington, welcomed many guests from the LGBTQ+ community. The Cherry Grove Community House and Theater was responsible for integrating LGBTQ+ people into the community's life.

6 President's Park, Washington D.C.

Witnessed the birth of the national movement for lgbtq+ rights.

Encompassing the White House and iconic monuments, President's Park is a symbol of American ideals like liberty. The national park witnessed roughly 100,000 people arriving at the South Lawn of the White House during the historical National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights in 1979 .

The march was responsible for the birth of a national movement for LGBTQ+ rights. It helped small, local organizations unite, know they were not alone, and bring their issues to a national stage, showcasing their collective power.

7 U.S. National Parks With The Best Mountain Hikes

5 independence national historical park, philadelphia, this national park site embraces the lgbtq+ heritage initiative.

Philadelphia played a pivotal role in the history of the LGBTQ+ community , dating back to the 1930s, when there were public spaces where people of the community could gather. The city is also home to Independence National Historical Park , which honors the birth of American democracy through the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

While it lacks specific LGBTQ+ monuments, Independence National Historical Park supports initiatives like Speaking Out for Equality . This exhibition showcased the life of gay people during the post-war years.

4 Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco

Promotes events like queer history hikes and book giveaways.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area encompasses diverse landscapes like Muir Woods National Monument , the creepy Alcatraz Island , and Crissy Field ; this expansive park offers a gateway to exploring San Francisco's rich LGBTQ+ history. The city embraces LGBTQ+ activism and culture, with the Castro district being a world-famous neighborhood known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community.

According to its website, the national park site celebrates LGBTQ+ history by organizing initiatives like "queer history hikes, book giveaways with San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) Hormel LGBTQIA Center, storytelling at Drag Story Hour, a Tea Dance Celebration with the Music Connects Foundation."

These Underrated National Parks Have One Thing In Common

3 alaska national park service, the national park service has created videos to celebrate diversity.

The Alaska National Park Service manages a vast network of scenic national parks in Alaska , as well as monuments and preserves across the state. While these locations don't have designated LGBTQ+ historical sites, the National Park Service is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all visitors.

In its efforts to honor the country's diversity, the national park has released a series of videos in which LGBTQ+ employees share their stories and experiences with the community. The initiative reinforces that the parks of Alaska embrace diversity and encourage others.

2 Boston National Historical Park

This national park site is home to many places that played a pivotal role in the lgbtq+ rights movement.

Boston National Historical Park showcases the city's role in the American Revolution. While the national park itself doesn't have specific monuments dedicated to LGBTQ+ history, it preserves sites that are significant to the movement.

One such landmark is Faneuil Hall , where the LGBTQ+ community held its first Gay and Lesbian Town Meeting in 1977. This deliberate mirroring of the historic Boston Tea Party symbolized the LGBTQ+ rights movement's legitimacy as part of the American protest tradition for social justice.

Additionally, the Charles Street Meetinghouse within the park became a haven for the Boston LGBTQ+ community in the late 1960s. Under the leadership of Reverend Randy Gibson, the Meetinghouse was transformed into a welcoming space offering social events and fostering a sense of community.

7 Best National Parks For RVers To Visit This Summer

1 selma to montgomery national historic trail, helped to pave social rights movements.

The Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail commemorates a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality, even though it explicitly honors the Voting Rights Movement of 1965.

The trail follows the route taken by civil rights activists, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., during their march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. While the primary focus was on securing voting rights for African Americans, the movement's success paved the way for future struggles for social justice. According to the National Park Service , this also includes LGBTQ+ rights.