tourist attractions near boston massachusetts

Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

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

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Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

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

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

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

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

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

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

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

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

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North End North End free

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

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

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

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

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

Boston Common Boston Common free

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

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

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Fenway Park Fenway Park

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

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

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

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

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

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Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

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

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

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

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

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

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Cambridge Cambridge free

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

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

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

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

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

Old North Church Old North Church

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

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

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

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

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

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

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

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

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

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

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

Museum of Science Museum of Science

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

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

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

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

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

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

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

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

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

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

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

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Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

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

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

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

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

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

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

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

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

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

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

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

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

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

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

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View Boston View Boston

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

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

The Mapparium The Mapparium

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

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

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The 45 best things to do in Boston

Whether you are new to Boston or a lifelong resident, here's what to do this spring

As with every year, April in Boston brings fairer weather and ample opportunities to celebrate it. If you're looking to put the spring back into your step by heading out and exploring all that our city has to offer, you're in luck because we've amassed a list of the best things to do in Boston right now. While our area may be known for some of the  oldest restaurants , historic Fenway Park and swath of Freedom Trail landmarks, it also offers plenty of new and exciting places for you to check out. Looking for more seasonal inspiration? Take a stroll through the best parks  in town, bring your family to some  kid-friendly attractions  and check out some primo picnic spots  that will let you live life in the Hub to the absolute fullest.

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Best things to do in Boston

1.  Stroll the Greenway

What is it?  This verdant, mile-long ribbon of grassy parks and outdoor resting places invites the weary traveler (or office warrior) to stop and take a break. 

Why go?  The expansive park covers 15 acres connecting the Chinatown Gate with the iconic Zakim Bridge. During the day, people stroll, bike and lounge along its length, which is dotted with fountains and serviced by food trucks, making the area the perfect warm-weather hangout.

Don’t miss:  Keep an eye out for the periodic festivals, events and parades taking place on or near the park.

Need some guidance? Book a tour . 

2.  Wander around Boston Common and the Public Garden

What is it?  America ’ s first botanical garden (Public Garden, 1837) and oldest public park  (Boston Common, 1634).

Why go?  The dual jewels of the Emerald Necklace perfectly reflect the vision of the venerated landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Depending on the season, you can ice-skate on Frog Pond , play softball or tennis, or simply lounge with a book on the 50-acre Boston Common. Across Charles Street, the smaller Public Garden shines in its own right. It ’ s the perfect park, with pathways designed for promenading, formal flower beds and a petite lagoon fringed with weeping willows. 

Don’t miss:   The seasonally operated, waterfowl-shaped Swan Boats  (introduced in 1877), which are adored by children. 

3.  Try the best clam chowder in Boston

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

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

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

4.  Sunbathe on the Esplanade

• Things to do
• The Esplanade

What is it? Running alongside the Charles River, this public park is the perfect place to sit down and catch some rays.

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

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

5.  Tour a historic building

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

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

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

6.  Head out on the Charles

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

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

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

7.  Go hard on a Southie Sunday

• South Boston

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

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

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

8.  Try one or all of the city’s freshest lobster rolls

What is it?  Perhaps the ultimate seafood treat, lobster rolls are found on menus across town for you to enjoy any time of the year.

Why go?  The best lobster dishes in Boston  feature this beloved crustacean in a variety of ways, but a fresh lobster roll is a solid option any time of the year. Sourced from cold waters along the New England coast, chunks of sweet lobster meat are removed from the shell, allowing diners to enjoy all of the flavor with none of the mess. Classic versions, like the famed roll at Neptune Oyster , are served hot or cold on a humble toasted bun, while more modern versions —see  Eventide Fenway's  brown butter lobster roll on a Chinese-style bun —are a bit more upscale.

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

9.  Explore the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

• Art and design
• Mission Hill

What is it?  Modeled on a Venetian palace, the former home of the American art collector Isabella Stewart Gardner is a sightseeing gem. 

Why go?  As per Gardner’s explicit instructions, the museum stands “for the education and enrichment of the public forever.” The ISG’s most famous treasures remain exactly where Gardner had arranged them, including the empty frames that once held priceless works of art stolen during the infamous 1990 theft. The museum also boasts a flower-filled courtyard that blooms all year long. 

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

10.  Take a hike

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

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

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

11.  Retrace historic steps along the Freedom Trail

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

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

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

12.  Get a different perspective of the city from a cruise on the water

What is it?  Ask Bostonians for a special occasion recommendation and they’ll likely tell you to get out on the water by taking one of the city’s harbor cruises.

Why go?  Nautical types will argue that the best way to truly see Boston in all of its glory is by boat excursion. Longtime local favorite  Odyssey Cruises offers a variety of yachting experiences, most of which feature food, drink, live music and dancing. 

Don ’ t miss:  If time on the water has you fiending for fish afterwards, seek out one of Boston ’ s best seafood restaurants .

13.  Smell the flowers at the Arnold Arboretum

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

Why go?  With thousands of trees, shrubs and woody vines, it's also recognized as one of the most comprehensive and well documented of its kind worldwide. 

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

14.  Eat the freshest local oysters at a popular raw bar

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

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

Don’t miss:  Cozy spots like B&G Oysters and North Square Oyster offer oyster-friendly wine pairings, while Row 34 can provide the perfect beers.

15.  Visit the penguins at the New England Aquarium

• Attractions
• Zoo and aquariums

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

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

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

16.  Browse the Institute of Contemporary Art

• Seaport District
• price 2 of 4

What is it? The dramatic, glass-walled ICA is the cultural cornerstone of the buzzing Seaport District. 

Why go? The 65,000-square-foot building houses galleries, a theater and a café. The museum staff prides itself on providing a platform for challenging — sometimes controversial — works. After you ’ ve contemplated the art, retreat to the scenic outdoor deck, the site of live performances and events. Note: Admission is free on Thursdays from 5pm-9pm.

Don’t miss:  First Fridays at the ICA, a monthly event where people congregate for an evening of live cultural programming put together with a common theme. 

Save money on tickets with a Go Boston Pass

17.  See world class art at the Museum of Fine Arts

What is it?  Founded in 1870, the Museum of Fine Arts — whose globe-spanning collection encompasses more than 500,000 objects — continues to grow.  

Why go? Noteworthy pieces include: its selection of American art, including Paul Revere’s Liberty Bowl and paintings by John Singleton Copley; its Egyptian exhibit, much of which was acquired through excavations in conjunction with Harvard University; its Japanese collection (the first in America, and one of the finest in the country); and its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist galleries, which includes one of the largest collections of Monet's work outside Paris. 

Don’t miss:   The museum offers one of the city ’ s best deals on Wednesdays after 4pm, when admission is by voluntary contribution. 

Save money on tickets with a Boston Explorer Pass

18.  Shop, dine and go big at Encore Boston Harbor

What is it? Encore Boston Harbor is the mega-casino resort we've been waiting for.

Why go? The 210,000-square-foot complex—which cost nearly $3 billion—includes 15 dining and lounge venues, 671 guest rooms and suites, 50,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, and an ultra-premium spa.

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

19.  Splurge on Newbury Street

What is it?  Boston’s premier retail strip is perfect for both shopping and people-watching.

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

Don’t miss:  If you ’ re more interested in unique, indie finds, head to the neighboring  South End . 

20.  Discover the deCordova Museum & Sculpture Park

What is it?  Head west to suburbs and visit the former estate of Massachusetts merchant Julian de Cordova. 

Why go?  Even during the peak of winter or dog days of summer, the deCordova Museum & Sculpture Park attracts art lovers to its a 35-acre spread in leafy Lincoln. Open year-round, the region ’ s premier outdoor sculpture park is the perfect place to get some fresh air while checking out world-class art. The ever-changing indoor exhibits provide shelter from the sometimes-fickle elements.

Don’t miss:  Check the museum ’ s  calendar  to learn about special outdoor events.

21.  Eat at one of these healthy spots

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

22.  Discover a lost world at the Mapparium

• Libraries, archives and foundations

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

Why go?  Calling all geography nerds: The Mapparium, the world ’ s largest walk-in globe, is among the city ’ s quirkiest landmarks. This colorful sphere runs 30 feet in diameter and can be crossed by means of a glass bridge bisecting its interior. Inside, sound bounces off the room ’ s rounded walls, amplifying it ten-fold, so keep in mind that there are no secrets in the sphere —no matter how softly you may whisper.

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

23.  Root for the home team at Fenway Park

• Sport events

What is it?  Seeing a game at Fenway Park has been a rite of passage amongst many locals since it opened in 1912.

Why go?  As the oldest ballpark in the majors, Fenway is also one of the smallest, with a capacity of around 38,000. That means tickets can be hard to come by for big games. Fortunately, public tours are offered year-round, so baseball fans and history buffs alike can hear all about the park's past and present. 

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

24.  Go on a tour of Fenway

The best part about Fenway Park is that it is a blast even if the Red Sox aren't playing! 

Take a 60-minute guided tour of Fenway Park using Go City Boston to see where Jimmy Fallon and Drew Barrymore filmed scenes for their 2005 romance drama film, Fever Pitch! 

25.  Get an inside view of SoWa’s studios

What is it?  As the city ’ s premier artistic hub, the 450 Harrison building is a veritable hive of creative activity. 

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

Don’t miss:  Once you ’ ve had your fill of art, get your fill of locally grown produce and artisinal foods at SoWa's Farmer's Market.

26.  Learn something new at the Boston Public Library

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

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

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

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

27.  Get wild at the Franklin Park Zoo

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

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

Don’t miss:  Little visitors can be easily entertained at the children ’ s zoo, which features everything from a prairie dog neighborhood to a grass maze.

28.  Explore culinary creations at Boston's best food halls

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

Why Go? Food halls are a great dining choice when you’re with a group of friends with different tastes—there’s something for everyone. Boston food halls offer all types of food—spanning numerous genres and cuisine types—all in one spot. They make for a great anytime meeting spot; just show up and see what kind of mood you’re in.

Don't Miss: Eataly is a haven for Italian food enthusiasts. The Boston Public Market has fresh produce in addition to prepared foods.

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

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

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

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

30.  Check out a food truck

What is it? Food trucks are often a testing ground for new chefs, leading to popular brick-and-mortar locations. (Clover, now a local empire, started as a mobile kitchen peddling street eats).

Why go?  Food trucks offer convenient, delicious fare that can be enjoyed just about anywhere. From gourmet grilled cheeses to ice cream cookie sandwiches, Boston's fleet of wheeled restaurants have a range of fast, fun bites for on-the-go eating.

Don't miss: Many trucks park themselves near the city's busiest picnic spots, like Copley Square, Government Center or the Rose Kennedy Greenway. But if you have your heart set on food from a specific vehicle, check to see if it's shared its daily route online.

31.  Explore the JFK Library

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

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

Don’t miss:  Check the Library ’ s homepage in advance to learn about special events and award ceremonies.

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

• Event spaces

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

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

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

33.  Sample the best of local breweries

What is it?  For a city that’s often limited by its strict, booze-related blue laws, we sure have a fine collection of breweries. 

Why go?  Historically, Boston's most recognizable brewer was Samuel Adams, the Revolutionary and “maltster” for whom the city's biggest beer brand is clearly named. Tourists are encouraged to visit the Samuel Adams Brewery in Jamaica Plain, but also need to explore the Hub's booming craft brew scene. Join locals in tasting small-batch, farmhouse-style ales at Fort Point’s Trillium Brewing Company , or experimental suds at Somerville’s Aeronaut Brewing Company , founded by a science-focused trio with MIT connections.

Don’t miss:  Any of the lively, beer-fueled festivities at the Harpoon Brewery .

34.  Drink a proper pint at an authentic Irish pub

What is it?  Boston ’s collection of  cozy, welcoming Irish pubs might just be the most impressive — outside Ireland itself.

Why go?  In a city chock full of proud Irish expats and Irish-Americans, it’s little wonder why Boston is brimming with an excess of quality pubs. To get the full experience, head in on a spirited trivia night, or during a live performance of authentic Irish music. Longtime favorites like  The Burren  and The Druid all but guarantee a lively night of big laughs and fun times.

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

35.  Dine at one of the best waterfront restaurants in Boston

We are lucky that there are plenty of waterfront restaurants in Boston to get your fix of sun, sea and salty air. Take advantage of the warm weather while it lasts and savor the sunshine at one of these fabulous restaurants with a view.

36.  Have a drink outside

What is it? Head to one of these outdoor Boston bars where you can enjoy sun and fun as the weather improves.

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

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

37.  Take a foodie crawl through Chinatown

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

Why go?  Many of  the city ’ s best Chinese restaurants  can be found in Chinatown. Rather than sticking to one spot and eating a single big meal, walk around the area and slowly snack along the way. Gourmet Dumpling House is a smart place to start, so you can let its soft steamed dumplings with spicy dipping sauce fire up your palate. Next, stamp your culinary passport at Taiwan Cafe , where you can sample a selection of the island's specialities. Finish off with a bang at Peach Farm , where you can select seafood straight from the tanks.

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

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

38.  Study fine art at the Harvard Art Museums

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

Why go?  Following a lengthy expansion project, Harvard’s three art institutions—the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum—were united under one Renzo Piano–designed glass roof. Visitors are able to peruse highlights from the Ivy League institution's collection of roughly 250,000 pieces — from Neolithic sculptures to 21st-century conceptual installations. 

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

Want to see more of Harvard? Book a tour . 

39.  Cheer on the local teams at the liveliest sports bars

What is it? If you can't make it to the game in person, our slew of sports bars are the next best thing when it comes to watching the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots and Bruins.

Why Go? Of all the fantastic things to do in Boston, catching the game has to be at the top of the list — whether it's hearing the roar of Red Sox fans at Fenway, braving the cold to cheer on the Patriots in Foxborough or celebrating a Celtics' or Bruins' win at TD Garden. While you can't always make it there in person, especially with away games, but good beer, lively company and big screens make our bars a great alternative.

Don't miss: For fans of memorabilia, The Fours (in Quincy and Norwell... RIP its Boston location) has its walls plastered with photos, jerseys, balls and other collectables from all of our teams.

40.  Go candlepin bowling at Sacco’s Bowl Haven

What is it?  A unique, casual Somerville hangout where you can enjoy gourmet pizza and craft brews while trying your hand at candlepin bowling.

Why go?  Candlepin bowling is a uniquely New England quirk—the pins are tall and much thinner than those of standard ten-pin, and balls are closer to softball-sized. A local favorite for playing this regional game: The lovingly maintained Sacco’s Bowl Haven, which dates back to 1939 and now sits within Flatbread Company's Somerville location. This alley has the added perk of being able to eat amazing thin-crust pizza while waiting for a lane.

Don’t miss:  Reservations are accepted for groups of eight or more; call ahead or expect to wait.

41.  Dance the night away at a hot club

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

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

Don’t miss:  If toe-tapping along to live jazz is more your speed, check out Darryl's Corner Bar and Kitchen for soul food and some smooth music. 

42.  Experience high-end mixology at a top cocktail bar

• Cocktail bars

What is it?  Given the area’s renowned reputation for the sciences, it ’ s no surprise that Boston has a bevy of talented mixologists.

Why go?  Why go out for a simple beer when you can order an immersive sensory experience in a glass? For a truly mind-blowing cocktail, head to local trailblazers like  Drink and Better Sorts Social Club, both of which offer an expansive list of truly unexpected drinks.

Don ’t miss: For a next-level experience, try cocktails featuring house-made tinctures and shrubs at Parla. The North End spot even offers a dice game that lets you gradually unlock a secret drink menu.

43.  Make the rounds at Boston’s best donut shops

What is it?  Get your fill of sticky-sweet, fried goodness at Boston’s top donut shops.

Why go?  The antithesis of mass production (sorry, Dunkin'), Boston’s best donuts are lovingly made by hand, satisfying even the most discerning sweet tooth. Stick with the classics if you must—cake donuts and honey glazed are local favorites—but we recommend tearing into exotic options, such as sea salt bourbon caramel or blackberry lavender, found at popular new-wave spots  Union Square Donuts and Blackbird Doughnuts .

Don't miss:  For an old-school, no-frills option, head to Allston ’ s Twin Donuts .

44.  Laugh it up at the best Boston comedy clubs

What is it? There are many opportunities to laugh your socks off — either at one of Boston's veteran comedy clubs or during one of our bars' regular comedy nights.

Why Go? Some of America’s most popular contemporary comedians (e.g. Conan O’Brien, Bill Burr) honed their craft in Greater Boston. In the Theater District, big name comedians hold court at a variety of venues. Spending your evening yucking it up is a great way to unwind and boost your mood.

Don't miss: The Improv Asylum in the North End has a loyal following, especially when it comes to the more risque late-night shows.

45.  Get a feel for Ivy League life with a tour of Harvard

What is it?  There’s a lot more on the grounds of Harvard University than elite pupils and posing tourists.

Why go?  These iconic red brick walls contain some truly stunning stories, and a visit will connect you to a Who ’ s Who of American history. The Yard and overall campus features striking architecture designed by such luminaries as Bulfinch, Le Corbusier (his only American building) and Sert.

Don’t miss:  Steps from campus, Harvard Square contains some of the best eating and shopping in the city.

Best restaurants in Boston by cuisine

The most romantic restaurants in Boston

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

The best brunch spots in Boston

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

The best burgers in Boston

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

The best vegan restaurants in Boston

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The best vegetarian restaurants in Boston

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

Need somewhere to stay?

Unique Airbnbs to rent in and around Boston

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

The 18 best hotels in Boston

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

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The best things to do in the world right now

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Boston Public Library Arrow

There’s a lot to love about the Boston Public Library: It’s the oldest municipally-funded lending library in the country, its McKim Building is considered the masterwork of iconic Gilded Age architect Charles Follen McKim, and an ongoing calendar of free events all year-round means there is quite literally always a tour to go on, lecture to attend, or exhibit to peruse. Architecture nuts should reserve a spot on one of the thrice-weekly Art & Architecture Tours, which unlocks some of the premises’ lesser-known gems, including tile arches by famed Spanish builder Rafael Guastavino, and the first mural commission from John Singer Sargeant. The museum is home to all sorts of treasures beyond just books–including the lesser-known but entirely worthwhile Norman B. Leventhal Map Center, which houses over 250,000 geographic objects.

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

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

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

Walk the Freedom Trail.

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

Step back in time at the Paul Revere House.

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

Stroll through the Boston Common.

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

See the animals at the New England Aquarium.

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

Take the kids to the Franklin Park Zoo.

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

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

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

Go for a walk around the Esplanade.

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

Violet Smirnova/Travel + Leisure

Take to the Charles River.

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

Watch a midnight movie at Coolidge.

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

Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

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

Spend a day at the Institute of Contemporary Art.

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

See the Arnold Arboretum.

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

Scope out the treasures at The Museum of Fine Arts.

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

Swing by Encore Boston Harbor.

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

Shop on Newbury Street.

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

"Travel" the world at the Mapparium.

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

Root for the Red Sox at Fenway.

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

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

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

Grab a good book at the Boston Public Library.

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

Grab a bite at Boston Public Market.

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

Drink a local brew at Samuel Adams Boston Brewery.

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

Devour dessert with a cannoli from Mike's Pastry.

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

Explore more city history on a walking tour of Chinatown.

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

Watch a show at the Boston Ballet.

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

Waddle around on a Boston Duck Tour.

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

Shop and dine at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

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

Learn something new at the Museum of Science.

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

Stop by Trinity Church.

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

Get medieval at Castle Island.

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

Pick up new art at the SoWa studios.

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

Related Articles

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on 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

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

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

Not everything is about work, however.

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

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

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

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

10. Boston Harbor

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There are lots of Boston attractions at the Boston Harbor .

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

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

Take a ferry tour of the islands of Massachusetts.

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

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

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

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

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

Check out these awesome activities around the Boston Harbor.

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

11. Brattle Book Shop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. New England Aquarium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

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

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

You might even witness buskers or jugglers performing for cash!

The main draw of Faneuil Hall Marketplace is the food.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Santarpio’s Pizza

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

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

What makes Santarpio’s Pizza so special?

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

The walls are covered in boxing posters.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out this mouth-watering guided pizza tour.

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

15. Museum of Fine Arts

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

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

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

It depends on your fancy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Boston Helicopter Tours

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A helicopter tour of Boston will take your breath away.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Castle Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Craigie on Main

Craigie On Main

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

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

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

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

The chef only makes 18 of these burgers each night!

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

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

Boston eating doesn’t get better than this.

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

19. Museum of Science

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

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

An indoor zoo will let you observe turtles and porcupines.

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Blue Hills Reservation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Hatch Shell

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

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

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

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

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

There are summer bands and winter gatherings.

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

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

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

Are you in the mood for movies or music?

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

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

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

22. Mount Auburn Cemetery

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

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

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

What can you do at the Mount Auburn Cemetery?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Newbury Street

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

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

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

Countless retailers have gotten their start on Newbury Street.

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

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

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

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

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

24. Franklin Park Zoo

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

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

The biggest draws, of course, are the animals.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. Brooklyn Boulders

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Are you afraid of heights?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Prudential Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They’re worth every bit of the climb!

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

27. Taza Chocolate Factory

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

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

It’s not a new invention.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. Middlesex Fells Reservation

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

It’s also worth the extra trip.

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

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

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

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

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

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

29. Harvard Museum of Natural History

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

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

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

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

Where else can you find something like that?

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

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

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

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

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

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

30. Revere Beach

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

One of them is Revere Beach .

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

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

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

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

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

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

31. Bow Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

32. Georges Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

33. Boston Harborwalk

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Boston

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

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

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

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 Public Garden

5. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

6. North End

7. Boston Public Library

8. John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library

9. Boston Common

10. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

11. Samuel Adams Brewery

12. USS Constitution

13. Beacon Hill

14. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

15. New England Holocaust Memorial

16. Newbury Street

17. Old North Church & Historic Site

18. USS Constitution Museum

19. Museum of Science

20. Waterfront

21. Quincy Market

22. TD Garden

23. New England Aquarium

24. The Mapparium

25. Granary Burying Ground

26. Old State House

27. Charles River Esplanade

28. Bunker Hill Monument

29. Back Bay

30. Prudential Center

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Free Things to Do

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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

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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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Must-see attractions in Boston

Fenway Park

Kenmore Square & Fenway

Home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912, Fenway Park is the oldest operating baseball park in the country. As such, the park has many quirks that make for a…

Harvard University

America's oldest college, Harvard University is one of the country's most prestigious universities. It was originally founded in Harvard Yard in 1636 by…

Museum of Science

The educational playground that is the Museum of Science has more than 600 interactive exhibits. Favorites include the world’s largest lightning-bolt…

Harvard Yard

Harvard University was originally founded here in 1636, and Harvard Yard remains the historic and geographic heart of the university campus. Flanked by…

Institute of Contemporary Art

Boston has become a focal point for contemporary art in the 21st century, with the Institute of Contemporary Art leading the way. The building is a work…

Boston Public Library

Founded in 1852, the esteemed Boston Public Library lends credence to Boston’s reputation as the 'Athens of America.' The old McKim building is notable…

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers a different perspective on academia. MIT has a proud history of pushing the boundaries, from its…

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Once home to Isabella Stewart Gardner, this splendid palazzo now houses her exquisite collection of art. The museum includes thousands of artistic objects…

Public Garden

Beacon Hill & Boston Common

Adjoining Boston Common, the Public Garden is a 24-acre botanical oasis of Victorian flower beds, verdant grass and weeping willow trees shading a…

Charles River Esplanade

The southern bank of the Charles River Basin is an enticing urban escape, with grassy knolls and cooling waterways, all designed by Frederick Law Olmsted…

USS Constitution

Charlestown

‘Her sides are made of iron!’ cried a crewman upon watching a shot bounce off the thick oak hull of the USS Constitution during the War of 1812. This bit…

Museum of Fine Arts

Founded in 1876, the Museum of Fine Arts is Boston's foremost art museum. The museum covers all parts of the globe and all eras, from the ancient world to…

Trinity Church

A masterpiece of American architecture, Trinity Church is the country's ultimate example of Richardsonian Romanesque. The granite exterior, with a massive…

Bunker Hill Monument

This 220ft granite obelisk monument commemorates the turning-point battle that was fought on the surrounding hillside on June 17, 1775. Ultimately, the…

Mt Auburn Cemetery

This delightful spot at the end of Brattle St is worth the 30-minute walk west from Harvard Square. Developed in 1831, it was the first 'garden cemetery'…

Old State House

Dating from 1713, the Old State House is Boston’s oldest surviving public building, where the Massachusetts Assembly used to debate the issues of the day…

Underground at Ink Block

South End & Chinatown

What used to be an abandoned parking lot beneath the interstate is now an 8-acre playground and art space. The main draw is the fantastic mural project,…

Harvard Art Museums

The 2014 renovation and expansion of Harvard's art museums allowed the university's massive 250,000-piece collection to come together under one very…

New England Aquarium

Teeming with sea creatures of all sizes, shapes and colors, this giant fishbowl is the centerpiece of downtown Boston's waterfront. There are countless…

Old North Church

Longfellow’s poem 'Paul Revere’s Ride' has immortalized this graceful church. It was here, on the night of April 18, 1775, that the sexton hung two…

Boston Common

America's oldest public park, Boston Common has a long and storied history, serving as a campground for British troops during the Revolutionary War and as…

Acorn Street

This atmospheric cobblestone alleyway is Boston's famous narrowest street. It was once home to artisans and to the service people who worked for the…

Franklin Park Zoo

Tucked into Franklin Park, the zoo features a half-dozen different habitats, as well as special exhibits devoted to birds and butterflies. The highlight…

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

'Boston Harbor a teapot tonight!' To protest against unfair taxes, a gang of rebellious colonists dumped 342 chests of tea into the water. The 1773…

Forest Hills Cemetery

Dating from 1848, Forest Hills is a gorgeous, green cemetery that is filled with art and whimsy. It is still an active burial ground, but it also plays…

Edward M Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate

Ted Kennedy served in the US Senate for nearly half a century. It is fitting, therefore, that his legacy should include an institute and museum designed…

Old South Meeting House

‘No tax on tea!’ That was the decision on December 16, 1773, when 5000 angry colonists gathered here to protest British taxes, leading to the Boston Tea…

John F Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum

The legacy of JFK is ubiquitous in Boston, but the official memorial to the 35th president is the presidential library and museum – a striking, modern,…

Arnold Arboretum

Streetcar Suburbs

Under a public-private partnership with Harvard University, the 265-acre Arnold Arboretum is planted with over 15,000 exotic trees and flowering shrubs…

Harvard Museum of Natural History

This institution is famed for its botanical galleries, featuring some 3000 pieces of handblown, intricately crafted glass flowers and plants. There is a…

Smith Campus Center

After a massive overhaul, the Smith Campus Center has been transformed into a fabulous 'living room' for students and visitors to congregate, study,…

SoWa Artists Guild

The brick-and-beam buildings along Harrison Ave were originally used to manufacture goods ranging from canned food to pianos. Now these factories turn out…

Harvard Museums of Science & Culture

One ticket covers admission to both of the university's esteemed science museums: the Harvard Museum of Natural History, with the famed glass-flower…

Heading west out of Harvard Square, Brattle St is the epitome of colonial posh. Lined with mansions that were once home to royal sympathizers, the street…

Representing the journey of life, a granite path winds its way to a central fountain, offering a few moments of contemplative respite to anyone who cares…

Rings Fountain

This playful fountain is unpredictable and irresistible, especially on a hot day. The weekly Greenway Open Market is held nearby.

Massachusetts State House

High atop Beacon Hill, Massachusetts’ leaders and legislators attempt to turn their ideas into concrete policies and practices within the State House…

Faneuil Hall

‘Those who cannot bear free speech had best go home,’ said Wendell Phillips. ‘Faneuil Hall is no place for slavish hearts.’ Indeed, this public meeting…

Charlestown Navy Yard

Besides the historic ships docked here and the museum dedicated to them, the Charlestown Navy Yard is a living monument to its own history of shipbuilding…

USS Constitution Museum

Head indoors to this museum for a play-by-play of the various battles of the USS Constitution, as well as its current role as the flagship of the US Navy…

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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 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.

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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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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21 BEST Things to Do in Boston [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1) The Freedom Trail

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s get started.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you have your Boston CityPASS , entrance is included!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Boston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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Great post! I’m planning a trip to Boston soon and this was really helpful. I’m looking forward to exploring the city and trying out some of the activities you mentioned. Thanks for the tips!

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

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Massachusetts

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 30, 2022

Art, music, colonial history, patriotic landmarks, shopping, idyllic beaches, laid-back islands, succulent seafood — Massachusetts has something for everyone. Take your pick from tourist attractions that range from classical music concerts by a world-class symphony orchestra to perfecting your tan on a pristine beach.

As one of the original 13 colonies, Massachusetts has preserved more than its share of historic landmarks from as far back as pilgrim days. But it's not all history — in Boston's vibrant Faneuil Hall Marketplace, you'll find fashions as new as tomorrow.

Landscapes are just as varied, and as you explore these must-see sights, you'll find rolling mountains, waves crashing on rocky shores, green pastures and farmlands, deep forests, and beautiful little postcard-perfect villages that Norman Rockwell immortalized in his paintings. To be sure of finding the best places to visit, plan your trip using this handy list of the top attractions in Massachusetts.

1. Freedom Trail

2. faneuil hall, 3. cape cod beaches, 4. boston common and public garden swan boats, 5. fenway park, 6. harvard square and museums, 7. museum of fine arts and the isabella stewart gardner museum, 8. mayflower ii and plimoth patuxet museums, 9. salem's historic houses, 10. whale watch at stellwagen bank national marine sanctuary, 11. museum of science, boston, 12. old sturbridge village, 13. tanglewood concerts, 14. norman rockwell museum, 15. uss constitution and bunker hill monument, 16. minute man national historical park and lexington green, 17. island life on martha's vineyard, 18. historic deerfield, more things to see and do in massachusetts.

Some of Colonial America's most iconic landmarks mark Boston's three-mile Freedom Trail as it winds through the old city's narrow streets to connect 16 historic monuments and attractions. Follow the red brick line and brass medallions in the pavement, from the Visitor Center in the Boston Common all the way to the 54-gun frigate USS Constitution , "Old Ironsides," at the Charlestown Navy Yard .

Along the way, wander through two old burying grounds to find the graves of Paul Revere, John Hancock, and the first female to step off the Mayflower . The Old State House , Boston's oldest public building, was the scene of the infamous Boston Massacre, when five colonists were killed by British soldiers. A few steps off the Freedom Trail, at 1 Milk Street, is the birthplace of Benjamin Franklin , a site marked by a bust of the patriot, who was born here in 1706.

The trail's best-known attraction is Faneuil Hall , called the "cradle of liberty" for its role as the meeting-place of revolutionaries and later, of abolitionists. Along with a museum, it houses the stalls of Faneuil Hall Marketplace , which also includes three more long halls filled by pushcarts, food stalls, and shops.

Two more iconic places for sightseeing are in the lively Italian neighborhood, the North End : the 17th-century Paul Revere House and Old North Church , Boston's oldest and the one from whose steeple two lanterns were hung to signal the start of Paul Revere's famous ride.

Official site: https://www.thefreedomtrail.org/

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Boston

Built in 1740-42, Faneuil Hall was given to the city as a market hall by merchant Peter Faneuil. Along with a market, it was a place for public meetings well-used by colonists protesting British taxes and other grievances.

In the mid-19th century, it was the scene of anti-slavery meetings, rallies, and speeches. The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Museum on its top floor preserves paintings of battles, along with arms and uniforms.

True to its origins, the ground floor is filled with market stalls, which flow out into the three nearby market halls - Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market - to make up Faneuil Hall Marketplace . This entire area is almost always lively, filled with shoppers, buskers, tourists, and workers from nearby offices enjoying their lunches on the benches that line the wide promenades between the market halls. The halls themselves are filled with food stalls, pushcarts, shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Official site: www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com

Cape Cod is a long, curving peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic, protecting Cape Cod Bay with its northward curve. Most of its 560 miles of shoreline is long white-sand beaches , often backed by dunes of waving sea grass. Many of them are crowded in mid-summer, but there is enough sand for everyone (although not always enough parking for their cars).

Look for the more uncrowded beaches on the quieter north shore, along Route 6-A, near Sandwich or Brewster. Chatham and Orleans both have especially scenic white beaches on the Atlantic-facing shore. Cape Cod's beaches are among the most beautiful places to visit in Massachusetts .

Cape Cod National Seashore protects nearly the whole eastern coast of the Cape, keeping a 40-mile stretch of sand and dunes almost unchanged since the 1800s. Walk its white sands, spot nesting shorebirds, and follow the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail through its beautiful cedar woodlands.

Stop at the Salt Pond or Provincetown Visitor Centers for maps, information, and passes. Lifeguards are on duty at beaches near parking areas from late June through August.

Address: 99 Marconi Station Site Road, Wellfleet, Massachusetts

The Boston Common — along with the adjacent Public Garden — paints a large swath of green in the very heart of the city. Downtown streets border one end, Commonwealth Avenue and Back Bay the other. To one side is stately Beacon Hill; the Freedom Trail begins in the Common, the state house overlooks it.

The Common spans Boston's history, with the Central Burying Ground of 1756 at one corner and the next generation of Bostonians splashing in the Frog Pond in the summer, and skating on it in the winter.

The Public Garden, America's first botanical garden, is more formal in its design, with beds of flowers and an 1869 suspension bridge over the pond, beloved by locals and tourists for the charming Swan Boats that have glided across its surface since the 1870s. Don't think these are there just for kids - most of the smiling passengers are adults.

Address: Public Garden, Boston, Massachusetts

Official site: http://swanboats.com

With all the nostalgic appeal of an old-fashioned ballpark, Fenway Park is beloved not just by New Englanders and Red Sox fans, but by baseball fans everywhere. Little changed in appearance from its opening in the spring of 1912, Fenway Park still has its hand-operated scoreboard and the legendary Green Monster, the 37-foot green wall in left field.

While most other cities have built new stadiums in the city outskirts, Bostonians have kept the old tradition of an inner-city venue for its home team, even though it has the lowest seating capacity of any major league ballpark.

Tickets for one of the only 33,871 seats are usually scarce, but you can see the park on a lively tour that's fun even for tourists who are not baseball fans.

Address: 4 Yawkey Way, Boston, Massachusetts

Harvard University , one of the world's leading academic centers, is an attraction in itself, filled with historic buildings and exceptional museums. But its surroundings are just as appealing to visit, as the shops, restaurants, cafés, and bookstores around Harvard Square throb with activity at any time of year.

The Harvard Art Museums now combine three major collections, each of which formerly ranked as major U.S. art museums. Fogg Art Museum specializes in Italian early-Renaissance art, and the Busch-Reisinger concentrates on German and northern European Expressionist art, with works by Kandinsky and Klee. The Museum's Chinese jade and bronzes, Japanese prints, Indian art, and Greco-Roman antiquities comprise some of the finest collections in the world.

Four more world-class museums sit two blocks away on Oxford Street, Harvard's research collections displayed in the Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology , the Mineralogical Museum , the Museum of Comparative Zoology, and the Botanical Museum . The exceptional Native American exhibits show art and artifacts in the context of a living culture that changed as contact with Europeans increased.

The best known exhibits here, however, are the more than 3,000 glass flowers and plants, so realistic that it's hard to believe they are man-made. The secret of how these were made died with their creators, and the process has never been replicated. You can take lively free walking tours of the Harvard campus led by students.

Address: 32 Quincy Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Official site: http://hmnh.harvard.edu/

Two neighboring museums, both overlooking the green expanse of Boston's Fenway, trace fine and applied art from the ancient world to modern masters. The Boston Museum of Fine Arts is renowned for its collections of Impressionist paintings; Asian and Persian fine arts; and works from ancient Greece, Egypt, and the Middle East.

An entire American Wing displays outstanding collections of American paintings, decorative arts, folk art, furniture, silver, and design from pre-Columbian to Modernist.

A few steps away is the somewhat eccentric collection of Isabella Stewart Gardner, bequeathed as a museum, along with her Venetian-style palace in which these treasures are displayed. The more than 2,500 works range from paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer to exquisite handmade lace and medieval furniture. Behind her palace is a glass-encased building designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, creating spaces for music and contemporary art.

Museum of Fine Arts

• Address: 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts
• www.mfa.org

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

• Address: 280 The Fenway, Boston, Massachusetts
• http://www.gardnermuseum.org

In December 1620, separatists from the Church of England, called Pilgrims, landed at Plymouth after failing to reach their original destination in Virginia, making Plymouth the first permanent European settlement in New England.

You can step back into their world at the living history villages at Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly known as Plimoth Plantation). In the 17th-Century English Village, costumed interpreters (who never leave their 17th-century persona) re-create the experience of living in early colonial America as they go about daily tasks of gardening, building, cooking, and military training. Craftsmen use authentic tools to make objects common in the 17th century.

Plimoth Patuxet Museums also explore the lives and culture of Native Americans at the Patuxet Homesite , a re-creation of a Wampanoag village, where you'll see dwellings, gardens, and artifacts. Here, descendants of the area's first inhabitants demonstrate how their ancestors lived before and after the colonists' arrival.

Be sure to visit the full-scale reproduction of the Mayflower , Mayflower II , fresh from a four-year restoration and birthed at Plymouth Pier, to learn about the historic voyage from costumed guides representing the passengers and crew.

You can visit Plimoth Plantation on a day trip from Boston .

Address: 137 Warren Avenue, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Official site: www.plimoth.org

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Plymouth, MA

While early homes full of period furnishings are thick on New England soil, few places can offer the number, quality, and variety of those you can tour in the former China Trade port of Salem. What's more, they represent a wide range of Salem's history and culture, beginning with the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 and including the House of Seven Gables , immortalized in the book by Nathaniel Hawthorne, whose 1804 birthplace is also open.

The 1642 Witch House was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who presided at the witchcraft trials, and it's the only remaining building that's directly connected with the trials.

As the hub of the China Trade, it's not surprising that Salem streets are lined with homes built by men who grew rich in that era as captains or merchants. Two homes, the Hawkes and Derby houses, are part of the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.

Several others are part of the exceptional Peabody Essex Museum complex: the 1727 Crowninshield-Bentley House ; the 1684 John Ward House ; and the 1804 brick Gardner-Pingree House , whose interior preserves work by master builder Samuel McIntire.

The Peabody Essex Museum explores the China Trade, its participants, and their homes in its extensive collections, which include an entire original 18th-century home from China's Huizhou region, reassembled here and open to visitors.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Salem & Cape Ann

Among the top 10 whale-watching sites in the world, the Stellwagen Bank has one of the world's most biologically productive ocean environments. At this underwater plateau in the Atlantic, at the mouth of Massachusetts Bay, you may spot several different species of whale, along with Atlantic white-sided dolphins, harbor porpoise, seals, and other marine life.

More than 50 individual humpback whales have been identified and named by researchers, all dependable returnees each summer. Many of them are females that bring their new calves to Stellwagen Bank to feed in the food-rich waters and teach their calves to hunt.

You can board a whale watching tour in Gloucester or Provincetown, the closest harbors to the Stellwagen Bank, or from Boston or several other towns on Cape Cod. For the best experience, look for a company that offers trained naturalists to provide commentary during the trips and help identify species and explain their behavior.

This constantly innovating museum invites kids and adults to jump right in, with more than 700 interactive exhibits and activities that explore all realms of science, from the human body and electricity to Arctic exploration and dinosaurs.

The dramatic Lightning Show is an all-time crowd-pleaser, as it explores electricity and its powers, using the world's largest air-insulated Van de Graaff generator and Tesla coils that produce about half a million volts.

Throughout the huge facility hands-on exhibits are designed for all ages. Newer exhibits include an engineering design workshop and Project Vaccine, which explores how vaccines are developed and tested. The newest is the virtual Arctic Adventure , a digitally created immersive experience using ground-penetrating radar technology and ice core drills to explore the Arctic, its ice fields, and its wildlife.

Address: Science Park, Boston, Massachusetts

Official site: www.mos.org

One of the state's most visited tourist attractions, Old Sturbridge Village re-creates life in New England as it was in the early 1800s, in more than 40 historic homes, craft shops, stores, mills, and farm buildings brought from various places to this 200-acre site. Costumed interpreters demonstrate daily tasks of farmers, blacksmiths, housewives, and craftspeople, and offer hands-on activities for children.

A working farm demonstrates early farming and gardening, complete with back-bred livestock and heirloom plant varieties. You can also see two operating mills using water power to process wool and saw timber for buildings.

Address: 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Official site: https://www.osv.org/

The Boston Symphony Orchestra decamps in the summer to Lenox, in the heart of the Berkshires , where Tanglewood becomes a magnet for musicians and music lovers from late June through August. In the Koussevitzky Music Shed, Ozawa Hall, and other venues throughout the campus, various resident and guest musicians rehearse, learn, and perform.

The concerts vary from the full symphony orchestra to chamber groups and soloists, and from student groups, such as the Boston University Tanglewood Institute, to top-name performers like popular singer Tony Bennett and operatic soprano Renée Fleming.

The music of the BSO is often enhanced by the 120 voices of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus, and throughout the summer, the programs may include jazz pianists, string or wind quartets, Medieval music, contemporary works, opera, classics, and other forms and styles.

Free Fun Fridays are designed to appeal to the whole family, and Saturday morning rehearsals are open to the public by reserved ticket. Along with concert-style seating, audiences enjoy some of Tanglewood's most popular concerts seated on the well-manicured lawns.

Address: 297 West Street, Lenox, Massachusetts

Official site: http://www.bso.org

One of America's most beloved artists, Norman Rockwell lived and painted in the Berkshires for the last 25 years of his life, and his legacy is preserved here in the museum containing the world's largest collection of his original artworks. Rockwell is best known for his characterization of American life, especially in small towns, and for his representation of the country's ideals.

His ability to portray ordinary people and to convey nostalgia, gentle humor, and his deeply held concerns, such as civil rights and America's war on poverty, give his paintings warmth and tremendous appeal. Highlights of the collection are favorites from his Saturday Evening Post covers, the Four Freedoms, and Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas .

The Berkshire region has attracted artists, writers, and other creative figures since the early 19th century, and several of their homes and studios are open as tourist attractions, including those of Herman Melville, Edith Wharton, and Daniel Chester French.

Address: 9 Route 183, Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Official site: http://www.nrm.org

Two icons of American Independence combine to form the Boston National Historic Park in Charlestown. The three-masted wooden frigate USS Constitution , nicknamed Old Ironsides, is the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy, launched in 1797. Still afloat and crewed, the ship is open to tourists. You can explore its decks, learn about its naval exploits, and go below to experience the cramped quarters where 18 th -century seamen lived and worked.

The USS Constitution Museum, also at the Charlestown Navy Yard, tells more of the ship's history in interactive exhibits. A short walk away, the Bunker Hill Monument is another important feature of the park, marking the site of the fort built by militiamen before the Battle of Bunker Hill. This is the site of the first pitched battle of the American Revolution.

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

Official site: https://ussconstitutionmuseum.org

You can follow the route taken by the British regulars as they marched from Boston in a move that would begin the American Revolution. Battle Road is now part of Minute Man National Historical Park, which also includes North Bridge in Concord, where the Colonials engaged the British in battle. North Bridge Visitor Center shows artifacts, uniforms, and a historical film, and at the end of the bridge is Daniel Chester French's famous Minuteman statue .

At Battle Green in Lexington, where the very first shots were fired on April 19, 1775, stands another statue commemorating a Minuteman (they were called Minutemen because they were ready for battle at a minute's notice). On a boulder are inscribed Captain Parker's words to his men: "Stand your ground. Don't fire unless fired upon but if they mean to have a war let it begin here."

Reenactments of the battles here and at North Bridge in Concord are held each year on the anniversary. Begin at Minute Man Visitor Center to learn about the battles and Paul Revere's Ride to warn the colonists of the British advance.

Address: 174 Liberty Street, Concord, Massachusetts

Nowhere in the state can you experience a more idyllic laid-back island life than on Martha's Vineyard, only five miles off the southern coast of Cape Cod . You'll feel the island's relaxed vibe almost from the moment you board the ferry from Woods Hole or New Bedford.

"The Vineyard" has six small towns, miles and miles of beaches, lighthouses, weathered shingle houses, sand bluffs, protected waters for kayaking, and a plenty of ocean for sailing. In its low, rolling landscape, you'll find working farms with farm stands selling everything from just-picked strawberries to fresh eggs.

In its villages, which have a real year-round life of their own, locals mix easily with summer people, some of whose families have been coming here for generations. You may get a glimpse of some of their "cottages," as they refer to the posh estates built by wealthy New York and Boston families.

Oak Bluffs still has rows of little 19th-century "gingerbread" cottages from its days as a Methodist Camp meeting site, along with one of the oldest merry-go-rounds, the Flying Horses Carousel . Edgartown is a bit more sedate, with white clapboard buildings lining tree-shaded streets. The oldest is Vincent House , built in 1672 and now a museum.

Board the Chappy On-Time Ferry to Chappaquiddick , an even smaller island with beautiful protected beaches and the outstanding Mytoi Japanese garden.

The remarkable history of the Pioneer Valley village of Deerfield is told in its impressive collection of well-preserved colonial and Federal period homes and at the 14 houses of Historic Deerfield and the Flynt Center of Early New England Life .

Especially outstanding are the collection of American quilts ; the 1824 Federal Wright House , with its collection of Chippendale furniture; and the Asa Stebbins House , which contains a unique arched doorway and notable collection of wall coverings.

Historic Deerfield's houses and galleries contain more than 27,000 objects made or used in America from 1650 to 1900, one of the largest collections anywhere. Helen Geier Flynt Textile Gallery alone holds one of the finest collections of early American textiles and costumes in any museum, and frequent programs explore their history and techniques. Throughout the season are demonstrations of early American skills, crafts, and cooking.

Address: 84B Old Main Street, Deerfield, Massachusetts

Official site: www.historic-deerfield.org

Where to Go near Boston: Many of the best places to visit in Massachusetts , including the active seaport of New Bedford with its maritime sites, are easy day trips from Boston. Other parts of the state, including the beautiful Berkshire hills to the west, are perfect destinations for weekend getaways . Closer to Boston, the lively and historic city of Portsmouth is just across the border in New Hampshire.

Where to Go for Sea and Sand: New England's favorite seaside escape route begins south of Boston, where top-rated sandy beaches surround scenic Cape Cod . Or hop a ferry in Hyannis and spend time exploring the lovely island of Nantucket .

More on Massachusetts

• Last Updated On
• October 3, 2023

21 Top Boston Attractions — Best Tourist Spots!

Boston, nicknamed the Cradle of Liberty, is the oceanfront capital of Massachusetts.

It is a picturesque city known for Fenway Park, its world-famous baked beans, beautiful parks, and historical attractions.

Here, you can go on an unforgettable getaway with your companions as you explore its terrific tourist hotspots.

Some of the highlights that await you are magnificent stadiums, glorious museums, dazzling art galleries, charming neighborhoods, stunning aquariums, breathtaking cruises, grand concert halls, vibrant breweries, bustling shopping districts, and endless more.

Let me help you make your dream vacation a reality as you look through this hand-picked list of the top Boston attractions.

21. Freedom Trail

Freedom Trail Boston, MA 02113 (617) 357-8300

The Freedom Trail, established in 1951, is a 2.5-mile long trail featuring at least 16 historical sites to explore.

Why We Recommend This Tourist Attraction

On your Boston sightseeing adventure with your travel buddies, a top attraction you need to visit is the Freedom Trail.

It is the perfect budget-friendly location to tour because 13 out of 16 attractions charge no admission fee.

Go on a walking tour of this scenic trail as you discover the various historical sites, like an Old State House, one of the oldest public buildings in the country dating back to the 1710s, and the Paul Revere House, a three-story home constructed in 1680.

One of the best ways to experience this attraction is scheduling a private tour alongside charismatic and knowledgeable guides in 18th-century appropriate clothing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: InterContinental Boston, an IHG Hote

Related: Best Things to Do in Boston

20. Fenway Park

4 Jersey St Boston, MA 02215 (877) 733-7699

Fenway Park, first constructed in 1912, is a baseball stadium home to the Boston Red Sox.

It is the oldest active ballpark of its kind in Major League Baseball or MLB.

It is an iconic landmark and one of the main attractions of Boston.

This baseball stadium is one of the most famous tourist places in Boston, welcoming tourists from all over the country.

It also offers various shows throughout the year, like concerts of world-class acts, like Stevie Wonder, and other sports games, such as soccer and hockey.

A popular activity you should do here when visiting is going on a guided tour of the facility.

It includes going behind the scenes, learning about its popular games, hearing stories of the world-class celebrities that performed here, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Boston Hotel Commonwealth

Related: Things to Do in Boston with Kids

Related: What is Boston Famous For?

19. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

4 S Market St Boston, MA 02109 (617) 523-1300

Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a bustling shopping center situated in a historic 18th-century building.

Do you want to go on the ultimate shopping spree with your friends or family?

If you do, make your way to Faneuil Hall Marketplace today.

Here, you can find numerous vendors selling a wide array of items, like apparel, antiques, custom-made jewelry, local handicrafts, shoes, accessories, artwork, decorations, and so much more.

As you go shopping, it also offers many entertainment options for a more enjoyable time, like street performers, free ping pong games, face painting, tour options, and the like.

After shopping, visit the Salty Dog Seafood Grille & Bar to enjoy delicious food and a couple of drinks with your friends.

It offers mouth-watering fresh seafood dishes, like native oysters, shrimp cocktails, steam shellfish, fried calamari, lobster salad, grilled salmon, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Boston Harbor Hotel

Related: Best Beaches Near Boston, MA

18. Museum of Fine Arts Boston

465 Huntington Ave Boston, MA 02115 (617) 267-9300

The Museum of Fine Arts Boston, founded in 1870, is one of the most popular attractions in Boston, welcoming millions of guests annually.

It is the 14th largest art museum on earth and has an impressive collection of at least 450,000 pieces of artwork.

Dive into a day immersed in artful masterpieces at this spectacular museum.

It boasts a collection of more than 8,000 paintings and thousands of other stunning pieces, like artwork from ancient civilizations from at least 3,000 years ago and captivating pieces from Europe, Korea, Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and tons more.

For a more interactive experience, it offers lectures and studio art classes where you can learn something new, like painting, drawing, working with watercolors, printmaking, and other options.

The Museum of Fine Arts Boston is ADA-accessible and offers wheelchairs and rollators, state-of-the-art walkers with wheels, and padded seats that you can borrow free of charge should you need them.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonder — Pierce Boston

Related: Best Restaurants in Boston

17. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

306 Congress St Boston, MA 02210 (617) 338-1773

The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is a history museum floating atop the Fort Point Channel.

It features full-scale replicas of sailing vessels from the 18th century.

One of the best places to visit in Boston is this spectacular floating museum.

It offers you a plethora of exciting things to do with your companions, like going on themed tours with guides in character and costumes, looking at artifacts, observing live reenactments of how the American Revolution started, and watching an award-winning documentary at the theater.

Don’t leave the museum without visiting Abigail’s Tea Room & Terrace, its onsite eatery offering an authentic Boston Tea experience.

You can try five different cups of teas, each with a historical twist.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Boston

16. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

Atlantic Ave Boston, MA 02110 (617) 635-7275

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, created in 1967, is one of the most well-known urban parks in Boston.

It features a statue of Columbus made out of Italian marble.

Take a break from touring and sightseeing and spend a relaxing time at this beautifully manicured park.

Here, you can enjoy some much-needed fresh air as you go for a stroll through the postcard-perfect surroundings and take a picture with the iconic Columbus statue.

Other things you can do here are viewing the aromatic flowers at the rose garden, enjoying the waterfront views, and watching over your youngsters as they have a blast at the playground.

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park sits near schools, housing areas, restaurants, and other popular attractions, making it easily overcrowded.

To better avoid the influx of large crowds, visit early in the morning.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Club Quarters Hotel in Boston

Related: Best Hotels in Boston for Families

15. Symphony Hall

301 Massachusetts Ave Boston, MA 02115 (888) 266-1200

Symphony Hall, which opened in October 1900, is a captivating concert hall.

It has a capacity of 2,625 and is a national historic landmark.

Are you looking for the best places to go in Boston to watch a brilliant live show?

If you are, I strongly recommend visiting Symphony Hall, one of the top concert halls in the States based on acoustics alone.

It is the ideal destination for you to watch awe-inspiring performances of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, classical concertos, choirs, concerts, and lots more.

Before or after your show, sign up for a free guided tour of Symphony Hall.

It includes going behind the scenes, learning interesting factoids about its architecture and history, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Eliot Suite Hotel

14. New England Aquarium

1 Central Wharf Boston, MA 02110 (617) 973-5200

The New England Aquarium, which opened in 1969, is a world-class aquarium welcoming at least 1.3 million guests each year.

It is home to over 20,000 animals of at least 600 different species.

When searching for cool attractions near you to go on a journey of exploration into the depths of the ocean, this superb aquarium is a fantastic choice.

Here, you can see animals like penguins, sea lions, balloonfish, stingrays, octopuses, green sea turtles, green anacondas, colorful tropical fishes, and so much more.

Some of the activities you can enjoy, aside from observing the vibrant marine life, are watching a fascinating show at the theater about diverse sea life, listening to an intriguing lecture, and numerous others.

A top-rated activity you need to do here is going on a whale watching tour.

You can go out into the water and see various species of colossal animals, like humpback, minke, pilot, and finback whales.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: YOTEL Boston

13. Museum of Science

1 Museum Of Science Driveway Boston, MA 02114 (617) 723-2500

The Museum of Science, established in 1830, is one of the most-visited attractions in the city.

It is a science museum featuring over 700 engaging exhibits and an indoor zoo, home to at least 100 animals.

If you want to visit one of the best tourist attractions in Boston, Massachusetts, drive on down to the Museum of Science.

This renowned museum welcomes millions of visitors from all over the globe each year.

It has many interactive exhibits for you to view with your family or friends.

For example, the Hall of Human Life, featuring displays on the human anatomy, Arctic Adventure, taking you on a journey into the arctic, Colossal Fossil, highlighted by a triceratops fossil at least 65 million years old, and plenty of other fun options.

At its planetarium, you can watch spectacular shows that will take you on an adventure to Mars, various moons, far into the galaxy, and the like.

If you are vacationing with someone who has a physical disability, like someone who is blind or deaf, you can book special guides and tour options in advance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Whitney Hotel Boston

12. Public Garden

4 Charles St Boston, MA 02116 (617) 635-4505

The Public Garden, encompassing 24 acres, is also known as the Boston Public Garden.

It sits in the downtown area and is the first public botanical garden in the country established in 1837.

Spend an hour or two of your time with your partner or loved ones strolling through this jaw-droppingly gorgeous garden.

You can do things like going on a romantic boat ride with your significant other on a swan boat, throwing a ball or frisbee around, taking pictures of the breathtaking landscape, ice skating on winter days, picnicking, and touring the garden featuring 600 imported and locally grown trees.

Spring is one of the best seasons to visit this well-loved attraction when it features thousands of tulips of every color.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairmont Copley Plaza

11. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

25 Evans Way Boston, MA 02115 (617) 566-1401

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, established in 1903, is an award-winning art museum.

It boasts a magnificent collection of American, European, and Asian artwork.

Are you searching for points of interest to view stunning works of art?

If you are, consider a visit to this wonderful museum.

Here, you can view more than 7,500 art pieces of various forms, like paintings, textiles, decorative arts, ceramics, furniture, tapestries, sculptures, and more.

It features archival objects and selections from the Islamic world, ancient Rome, Asia, Medieval Europe, 19th-century France, Renaissance Italy, and so on.

Visit on a Saturday or a Sunday to go on their special Spotlight Talks.

It is a 20-minute tour that offers an interactive discussion on a featured artwork.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Seasons Boston

10. North End

North End Boston, MA 02115

North End, known as Boston’s Little Italy, features some of the oldest buildings in the metropolis.

It features at least 100 establishments and attractions for you to explore with your companions.

Its rich history dates back to the 1700s.

Enjoy a peaceful and laid-back day with your significant other or friends as you make your way around the North End.

You can do things like tour various historical sites, like the Freedom Trail, dine at an Italian restaurant, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee at a cafe, and so on.

Your trip to the North End isn’t complete until you dine at Giacomo’s Ristorante.

It is one of the top Italian restaurants in Boston, welcoming long lines of guests.

Here, you can try dishes like linguine, fettuccini, baked ziti, lobster, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Battery Wharf Hotel, Boston Waterfront

9. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Columbia Point Boston, MA 02125 (617) 514-1600

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, founded in 1979, encompasses about 10 acres.

Learn about the life, death, and legacy of 35th U.S. President John F. Kennedy at this awe-inspiring attraction.

You can view galleries on his wife Jacqueline Kennedy, a recreation of his oval office, on the 1960 presidential election, his early life, his inauguration, the U.S. space program during his presidency, and lots more.

For a more educational experience, you and your travel buddies can opt to go on a guided tour of the facility.

The Highlights Tour is one of the best experiences you can book with your companions at this museum.

It is ideal for all ages and includes watching a clip from his first televised debate, looking at his doodles from Cuban Missile Crisis Meetings, and many more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Boston

8. Samuel Adams Boston Brewery

30 Germania St Boston, MA 02130 (617) 368-5080

Samuel Adams Boston Brewery offers more than 60 variations of Samuel Adams beer.

Spend quality time with your significant other or friends as you catch up and enjoy a pint of exquisite-tasting beer along with delicious locally-made snacks.

You can also go on a guided tour of the brewery and learn about how they make their craft beer and a bit of their history.

It also has a gift shop where you can buy all sorts of souvenirs, like glassware, beer to take home, apparel, tote bags, coasters, keychains, and other trinkets.

If you want to try Mexican cuisine, visit the nearby Chilacates Amory St.

It features a friendly and inviting ambiance where you can enjoy burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston/Brookline

Related: Free Things to Do in Boston, MA

7. Quincy Market

206 S Market St Boston, MA 02109 (617) 523-1300

Quincy Market is a public market taking place in a historical building constructed between 1824 to 1826.

It is a well-known Boston landmark welcoming numerous locals and tourists throughout the year.

Shop for fresh, locally-grown produce and other items for affordable prices at Quincy Market.

It features hundreds of stalls for you to choose from, depending on what you want to buy.

Go on a shopping spree as you buy things like artisan crafts, freshly baked goods, accessories, confectionaries, farm-fresh produce, apparel, jewelry, and so much more.

One of the local delicacies that you must try at Quincy Market is the official dessert of Massachusetts, the Boston cream pie.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Godfrey Hotel Boston

6. Boston Children’s Museum

308 Congress St Boston, MA 02210 (617) 426-6500

The Boston Children’s Museum, founded in 1913, is the second-oldest museum of its kind in the United States.

Bond with your youngsters as you spend a fun-filled day together at this museum.

It features numerous hands-on activities and interactive exhibits to guarantee a terrific time.

Some of the exhibits you can expect to see are the Japanese House, a two-story townhouse where you can learn about family life in Japan, as well as their culture and art.

Another is the Art Studio, where you can work together to make stunning masterpieces.

Check their website before visiting because they plan various fun events and engaging programs throughout the week that you and your children will love, like family workshops and art festivals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Bostonian Boston

5. Arnold Arboretum

125 Arborway Boston, MA 02130 (617) 524-1718

The Arnold Arboretum, founded in 1872, is the oldest arboretum in the state.

It spans roughly 281 acres and features an extensive collection of at least 16,000 plants from the country and eastern Asia.

One of the top Boston tourist spots and sites that you should explore with your friends, partner, or loved ones is this arboretum.

Here, you can view plants of diverse species, towering trees, and vibrantly colored flowers.

It also offers various packages for a fun-filled experience, like the Introductory Tour, a 40-minute tour where you can learn its brief history, or the Director’s Tour, an immersive 2-hour tour of the area.

Visit the arboretum during May to see eye-catching and aromatic lilacs in full bloom.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway

4. Emerson Colonial Theatre

106 Boylston St Boston, MA 02116 (888) 616-0272

The Emerson Colonial Theatre, which opened in the 1900s, has a capacity of 1,700.

It is the oldest continuously operating theater in Boston.

Prepare to be amazed as you watch a magnificent live show at the Emerson Colonial Theatre.

It features awe-striking architecture, comfortable seating, a grand stage, and state-of-the-art lights and sounds systems.

You can watch magnificent live shows like inspirational talks, musicals, Broadway productions, concerts, musicals, dance recitals, and the like.

It also offers tour options where you can learn about its early beginning, go behind the scenes, and enjoy a glass of champagne.

Download the Ordertorium application on your phone before visiting.

It allows you to enjoy a glass of wine and a tasty snack from the comfort of your seat without getting up as you order online.

Its friendly staff will happily bring your order to you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall Boston

3. Gibson House Museum

137 Beacon St Boston, MA 02116 (617) 267-6338

The Gibson House Museum, built between 1859 to 1860, was the former home of Catherine Hammond Gibson and her family.

It is a well-preserved Victorian rowhouse and a national historic landmark.

Experience what life was like from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s as you go on a guided tour of this house museum.

On your tour, you can view its many rooms, look through antique furnishings, learn about the Gibson family, discover its significant role in movies, like Little Women, and countless more.

When planning for special events like enjoying a photoshoot or an intimate wedding, this house museum offers rental facilities that you can take advantage of.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Copley Place, Boston

2. Newbury Street

Newbury Street Boston, MA 02116

Newbury Street running for 1.6 kilometers long, is a popular shopping area featuring numerous upscale and retail shops.

You can find it in the Black Bay district of the city.

One of the top places to see in Boston on your sightseeing tour is Newbury Street.

It is the perfect site to visit to splurge on a superb shopping experience.

Here, you can find many luxury stores like Bulgari, Cartier, Giorgio Armani, Chanel, Burberry, and more, and cheaper options like Forever 21, Nike, H&M, and Nordstrom.

Many restaurants, pubs, and cafes also line its streets for a more enjoyable time.

If you want to relax and rejuvenate after shopping, visit Bella Santé.

Here, you can enjoy a full body massage, a facial, a manicure or pedicure, and various other treatments.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Charlesmark Hotel

1. Old Town Trolley Tours in Boston

200 Atlantic Ave Boston, MA 02110 (617) 269-7010

One of the top Boston attractions for tourists in Boston is the Old Town Trolley Tours in Boston.

It features a guided tour aboard orange and green trolleys maneuvered by professional and experienced drivers.

Visit various historical, natural, and cultural attractions by scheduling a tour with Old Town Trolley Tours in Boston.

It features a handful of tour options you can choose from, depending on where you want to go and what you want to do.

Depending on what package you book, you can visit museums, historical sites, bustling restaurants, and tons more.

For a spookier and more entertaining experience, book the Boston Ghost Tours.

It includes visiting the darker sides of the city, like haunted buildings and graveyards.

It also features stories about ghosts, local murders, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: InterContinental Boston, an IHG Hotel

Related: Things to Do Near Boston

Map of Boston Attractions

Boston Tourist Attractions: The 21 Best Tourism Spots for 2024

• Freedom Trail
• Fenway Park
• Faneuil Hall Marketplace
• Museum of Fine Arts Boston
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
• Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
• Symphony Hall
• New England Aquarium
• Museum of Science
• Public Garden
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
• John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
• Samuel Adams Boston Brewery
• Quincy Market
• Boston Children’s Museum
• Arnold Arboretum
• Emerson Colonial Theatre
• Gibson House Museum
• Newbury Street
• Old Town Trolley Tours in Boston