should i visit boston or philadelphia

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Boston for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Food

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Christmas Markets
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Philadelphia or Boston?
• Which is Cheaper, Philadelphia or Boston? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Boston?

• When to Visit Philadelphia or Boston?

Should you visit Philadelphia or Boston?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Boston, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Philadelphia and Boston: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Numerous theater shows
• Active nightlife
• Good music scene
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Big city activities
• Less popular old town
• Popular beach
• Scenic old town
• Home to the Freedom Trail

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Boston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boston than Philadelphia. While Philadelphia is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is very popular for its beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Philadelphia attracts visitors for its music and shopping. Boston is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history.

How is Philadelphia different from Boston?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston and Philadelphia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Boston?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Philadelphia and Boston.

The museums and tourist attractions in Philadelphia are world-renowned. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Boston on the map. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Theater?

Visitors will find great theaters and performances in Philadelphia and Boston.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Is the Food Better in Philadelphia or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Philadelphia and Boston offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Philadelphia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Dining out in Boston is an experience not to be missed. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Both Philadelphia and Boston have great vibes after the sun sets.

Philadelphia has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

The people in Boston know how to have a good time. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Music?

Philadelphia is notable for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Philadelphia . The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Boston?

Philadelphia is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia and Boston are great destinations to visit around the Christmas season.

Since it has plenty to do, Philadelphia is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its Christmas markets.

Many people head to Boston to see its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Philadelphia is a nice place to see Christmas markets. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Philadelphia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Boston are both nice to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Boston is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia and Boston are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Boston is a good city to visit for backpackers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Is Philadelphia or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Boston has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Is Philadelphia or Boston a more walkable city?

Philadelphia and Boston are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Philadelphia. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Boston or Philadelphia?

How long in philadelphia or boston.

In either Philadelphia or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Philadelphia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Philadelphia. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Boston than Philadelphia. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boston that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Philadelphia if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Boston.

• How many days in Philadelphia or Boston? Ideal Length of Stay Philadelphia 2-3   Boston   3-5

One day in Philadelphia or Boston?

Philadelphia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Boston, many people enjoy the live music and food that this proud city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Boston?

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Boston is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Philadelphia or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Boston, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this proud big city offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the museums. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Philadelphia or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the cultural big city of Philadelphia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Boston is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage , The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco , The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles , and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America .

Which place is cheaper, Boston or Philadelphia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Philadelphia Prices USA Prices Boston Prices USA Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Philadelphia $ 188 Boston $ 255

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $188, while the average daily cost in Boston is $255. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Philadelphia and Boston in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Philadelphia $ 119 Boston $ 166
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Philadelphia $ 238 Boston $ 332

Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Boston

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Boston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Philadelphia

Hotels in Boston

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Philadelphia $ 28 Boston $ 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
• Philadelphia to Newark International Airport (EWR) - Departure Private Transfer : $169
• Philadelphia to New York J.F. Kennedy Airport(JFK) - Departure Private Transfer : $173
• Philadelphia to New York Airport (JFK) Departure Transfer : $190
• Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $358

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:

• Subway Daily Pass $ 9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

• Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Airport (BOS) to City Downtown: $69
• Round trip transfer in private vehicle from Boston downtown-to the Airport (BOS): $138
• Round trip Airport Transfer: Logan - Boston: $300
• Private transfer: Boston to Boston Airport (BOS): $95
• Private transfer: Boston Airport (BOS) to Boston : $95
• Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Boston: $969
• Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $160
• Private Transfer from Boston to Flynn Cruiseport Boston: $116
• Private Transfer Boston Airport BOS to Boston by Business or Luxury Vehicle: $122
• Private Departure Transfer to Boston Airport BOS: $28
• Private Arrival Transfer from (BOS) Boston Airport: $28
• Limo Private Transfer Boston to Logan International Airport : $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Boston?

Prices for flights to both Boston and Philadelphia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Philadelphia $ 49 Boston $ 49

Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• Casual Lunch (for 3) $ 27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
• Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
• Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
• Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
• Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
• Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
• 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
• Best of Philadelphia Food Tour - Small Group Walking Tour: $69
• Secret Food Tour: $85
• Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
• Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90
• Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

• AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $32
• Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $49
• Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $54
• North End Pizza Tour with 3 Slices and Cannoli: $55
• North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $68
• Boston Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
• Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $77
• Ultimate Boston Food Tour: North End & Boston Public Market: $80
• Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $80
• Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $81
• Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $90
• Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $108

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Philadelphia $ 28 Boston $ 33

Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:

• Big Bus Tour (family of 3) $ 99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
• The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $8.99
• Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
• Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
• Philadelphia In App Walking Audio Tour: $9.00
• Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
• National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
• Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
• Fantastic Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
• Philadelphia - Freedom: At your leisure & pace. An audiovisual walking tour.: $15
• Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
• Penn Museum Admission Ticket: $18

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:

• Two Tickets to Celtics Game $ 101
• Duck Tour $ 32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

• Boston Massachusetts Private Photography Tour: $130
• "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $25
• "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $25
• 1 If By Land Walking Tours: History Walking Tour of Boston: $45
• 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with Harbor Cruise Option: $46
• 1692 Salem Day Tour: $32
• 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $32
• 2 Hour North End 'Little Italy' Walking Tour : $35
• 90-Minute Boston Harbor Sunset Sightseeing Cruise: $44
• 90-Minute Historical Walking Tour in Boston: $34
• A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $428
• A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $216

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston , Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston , and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids .

• Alcohol Drinks for one day Philadelphia $ 21 Boston $ 27

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
• Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
• Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
• Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
• Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

• Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
• Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
• Salem Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
• Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
• History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
• Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
• Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Philadelphia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Philadelphia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Philadelphia and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Philadelphia.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Philadelphia Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive? .

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Boston, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Philadelphia or Boston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Boston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Boston. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Philadelphia is generally around the same temperature as Boston. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 77°F (25°C), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the summer, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Boston. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia usually gets more rain in July than Boston. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Philadelphia 77°F (25°C)   Boston   73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Boston in the Autumn?

Both Boston and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during autumn. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Boston. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Philadelphia 56°F (14°C)   Boston   54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Philadelphia during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Boston can be very cold. Philadelphia can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Philadelphia is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Philadelphia in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Boston. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C)   Boston   29°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Boston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Boston. The spring months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In April, Philadelphia is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 52°F (11°C), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during spring. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Boston. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Philadelphia 52°F (11°C)   Boston   48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Boston and Philadelphia

Related articles for philadelphia, related articles for boston.

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• Boston , Philadelphia

Boston vs. Philadelphia

Table of Contents

Boston is made for people who prefer to keep things low-key and find solace in quiet places. It’s a spot well-known for its beautiful landmarks, including its many trails that served witness to American freedom. Here, the streets themselves are historic, so what can you expect from the city’s iconic museums? And, of course, don’t forget Beantown’s seafood scene and gastronomy – they’re some of the best you’ll ever have!

On the other hand, Philadelphia is the perfect vacation venue for those who hold art dear in their hearts. The city takes pride in its many street art and murals, masterpieces that are fluid and can change daily. It’s also one of the best American cities to go to if you’re eager for an ice-cold beer or a steaming cup of coffee to sober you up.

At the end of the day, when it comes to Boston vs. Philadelphia, there’s no clear winner. They’re both fun East Coast cities fit for the vacation of your dreams, so why not check out both? You’d savor every moment of it!

Make way for Boston, the City of Three Firsts! It’s home to the first public park in America, the first American lighthouse, and the first subway system in the United States. Impressive, right? But that’s just scratching the surface. Because when it comes to all-around awesomeness, Beantown is something special!

It’s known by many as the Heart of New England, filled to the brim with culture, history, and all things amazing. There’s its amazing gastronomy, capable of bringing even the toughest gourmets to their knees. The city’s many museums can get you back in time; even a simple stroll in Boston is as good as stepping into a time machine!

The possibilities are endless in this American destination. You won’t be disappointed, so why not come and explore this wonderful city by the sea?

What Makes Boston Unique?

Seafood and all things good.

When it comes to featuring the flavors of the ocean, no city does it like Boston! It’s known for having some of the freshest seafood ever, thanks to being right next door to the Atlantic Ocean. This makes the city a premier destination for those who love the fruits of the sea, as well as people determined to have a taste.

From succulent lobsters and clams to decadent scallops and oysters, this spot is a true seafood paradise! You won’t have to explore exotic shops or drop by hidden places in the bay to partake in these dishes. Fresh catches can be found at bustling docks, traditional restaurants, and fancy eateries.

Ready to set sail on a culinary voyage around Boston’s seafood scene? Check out some remarkable stops below for the best encounters:

• Red’s Best. It’s no secret that some of the best restaurants in Boston get their supplies from Red’s, which proves that it’s a level entirely on its own. Here, you can find the freshest seafood and hauls that come straight from local fishermen’s nets. Look forward to eating its Dayboat Sea Scallop Roll or buying a brunch box you can devour on the go!
• Select Oyster Bar. If you’re looking for a divine seafood experience, nothing beats this spot. It’s where you can eat dishes with a classic European touch, including sautéed petit clams, salmon crudo, and Spanish octopus. The best thing is you get to pair these legends with wines of the finest caliber, so don’t be scared of asking for recommendations.

These are only some of Boston’s must-visit seafood spots, so thoroughly explore the city. Remember to sample all the dishes you can put your hands on, like the classic New England clam chowder and beer-battered haddock. They’re sure to introduce you to a whole new world, so don your captain’s hat and prepare for an epic adventure!

History in Even the Smallest Details

Boston is dubbed the greatest sports city on the planet, known for producing some of the best teams in every game. It’s also a hub for the freshest, most divine seafood dishes to ever exist. However, these are not the only aces hidden in this A-list American destination. It’s also one of the oldest cities in the country, steeped with history down to its smallest details!

This makes Beantown an irresistible vacation venue for history buffs out there. Even those looking for a good time have the city on their bucket lists due to its many stunning historic landmarks. Can you expect less from this place which has been dubbed the Birthplace of the American Revolution? So much of the nation’s past can be found here, so take in all the sites and sounds you’ll experience here.

First, don’t miss out on walking the path of Revolutionary heroes – the Freedom Trail! It’s a 4 km (2.5 mi) route that leads you down the same road revolutionaries and patriots follow. The trail shows you sixteen iconic landmarks relevant to American Freedom, such as the Paul Revere House.

It was built around the 1680s, making it the oldest surviving building in downtown Boston. As you have guessed, it’s home to the revolutionary hero Paul Revere! He’s the midnight rider who warned the colonial militia of an impending British invasion, thus, saving the lives of many.

Another landmark you’ll encounter on the Freedom Trail is the USS Constitution. It’s dubbed the “Old Ironsides” due to its sturdy oak hull, able to withstand even the enemy’s flying cannonballs! There’s also the Granary Burying Ground; it’s a must-visit if you want to thank the heroes who gave you the freedom you have today. You can pay respects and give flowers to the graves of Paul Revere, James Otis, and three signers of the Declaration of Independence.

You can also marvel at the many wonderful historic sights outside the Freedom Trail! These include the Vilna Shul, a synagogue that’s almost a hundred years old! It’s home to many Jewish artifacts, including a velvet-lined barrel that used to contain Toral scrolls. Don’t forget the Massachusetts Waterworks Museum, Fort Warren, African Meeting House, and many more!

Places to Search for Beauty, Truth, and Meaning

Maira Kalman once said that a visit to a museum is a search for beauty, truth, and meaning. This couldn’t be more true, especially since these places hold genuine records about times long gone. And, of course, what better spot to erect museums than Boston, a city overflowing with history, culture, and art?

It’s an American destination considered an artifact on its own, so expect only an amazing collection of museums. Whether you’re an art connoisseur, a history buff, or looking to spice up your life, Boston’s galleries won’t let you down. And if you don’t think museums are your thing, you’re in for a surprise. The city has some of the most interesting activities and exhibits that will spark your curiosity!

Start your exploration with a bang by visiting the Museum of Fine Arts, the 14th largest art museum on the planet. It’s home to over 100 galleries containing more than 450,000 relics from across the globe. Here, you can admire delicate Korean works of art, ancient exhibits of US coins, and Egyptian treasures that never lose their glow.

And for those interred in local history, the Boston Tea Party Museum is waiting for you! It’s a replica of 18th-century fishing vessels, filled with exhibits of famous Revolutionary events. You can reenact some of the events in the museum, thanks to the wonderful actors in period costumes acting them out. Tip: don’t miss out on tasting the five teas thrown overboard, a major act of defiance by patriots against the British oppressors.

And, of course, there’s the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. It’s a marvelous place made thanks to the founder’s thirst for adventure – and all things beautiful. She collected many fine masterpieces, including the works of Botticelli, Titian, and Raphael. The museum itself is iconic, with Venetian-styled palazzo and delicate sculptures.

Other noteworthy museums to stop by in Beantown include:

• Harvard Museum of Natural History
• Institute of Contemporary Art
• Sports Museum of New England

The Paradise of Emotions

Boston is a great place to become an artist and an even greater spot to be a lover of performance arts. Why? Because the city is home to some of the best-performing arts in the world! From beloved Broadway shows to modern dance performances, Beantown will deliver, no matter your tastes.

And that’s not even the best thing of all. You see, this American destination celebrates the performing arts, so the scene is constantly evolving. There are plenty of new venues and performances popping out every time, showcasing some of the most talented acts in the world. They will ignite something in your bones and elicit emotions you’ve never felt before!

In this city, maybe you can find the next actor, dancer, or musician to support and admire. Or, who knows, you may even find yourself taking center stage and showing the audience what you got! No matter what, get ready to be in awe and dive deep into Boston’s performing arts scene. You can wing it and uncover the many spots in Beantown where artists thrive, or check out this list to get a clue on where to go:

• Boston Opera House. If you love the classics, no doubt this gem will be on your bucket list. It’s where you can watch the best portrayal of The Nutcracker, a holiday performance sure to give you goosebumps. Here, you can also enjoy iconic ballet shows and, if lucky, get a glimpse of renowned musical artists!
• Shubert Theater. This theater is not only a hub for some of the best performers around; it’s also recognized as a place of architectural significance. It has a beautiful Neoclassical theme, with intricate lobby and marble entrances. It’s where you go if you want to listen to various concerts or watch iconic comedy shows that will make you laugh until you can’t anymore.
• Paramount Center. Want to uncover the blossoming of Boston’s hidden talents? You can never go wrong with this spot, which serves as a stage for many outstanding student performances. You can also watch many US premieres and international film festival entrees!

Many more performing arts venues in Beantown are worth your time, so be sure to visit as many as possible. Some offer student and senior citizen discounts, so you and your family can enjoy these great shows without spending too much. And if you feel like getting involved in the arts yourself, Boston also has organizations to help you out!

Philadelphia

When you think of Philadelphia, the first thing that may come to mind is the iconic Liberty Bell and its role in American history. But that’s just scratching the surface of everything this wonderful spot has up its sleeves! The city has so much more to offer besides its distinctive culture and records of the past.

There’s its booming culinary scene, filled with mouthwatering cheesesteaks and fine-dining cuisine. Here, expect your tastebuds to experience only the highest luxury regarding food and drinks. Your eyes would definitely rejoice, too, especially once you witness all the art scattered throughout the city. The city also takes pride in its performing arts – truly a destination that will tickle your senses and emotions!

What Makes Philadelphia Unique?

Don’t worry, beer happy.

As if bagging the title ‘Birthplace of America’ and being the first-ever capital of the country isn’t cool enough. Philadelphia just had to have an unparalleled craft beer scene, too! This makes it such an irresistible city, particularly for tourists looking to enjoy it in more ways than one.

Imagine strolling through many historic landmarks, taking countless steps to make the most of your trip in the City of Brotherly Love. Then, boom! You have an ice-cold beer on hand, raising a toast to countless others, then downing the drink in one big gulp. Sounds like a dream, right?

Well, you’ve got this right under your fingertips (and more) once you set foot into Philadelphia! From regional craft brewers to independent operations, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to sampling the best suds in the city. Whether a casual beer drinker or a connoisseur looking for the next big thing, you’ll be quaffing delicious brews here.

First, you can head to the Yards Brewing Company, one of the oldest breweries in the country. Its Brawler English Mild Ale is something you shouldn’t miss, but so is their signature Philly Standard Beer!

Up next is the Evil Genius Beer Company, known for its “tastefully twisted” brews. This unique brewery features bold flavors and even bolder beer names, so this definitely should be part of your travel plans!

Stick to their classics, Stacy’s Mom and Purple Monkey’s Dishwasher, which is available all year round. You can also opt for their seasonal beer, like Is Butter a Carb or #SorryNotSorry!

And if you’re a fan of hard liquor, the City of Brotherly Love is no slouch, either. It’s home to some of the hottest craft distilleries in the region, like the Thistle Finch Distillery. You can grab many award-winning spirits, including the brand’s gin, absinthe, aquavit, and whiskey.

Don’t rule out Philadelphia’s cocktail scene, too! There’s the Sazerac de Philly, a unique concoction made from rye whiskey, sugar, and absinthe. Plus, you can visit The Continental Mid-Town for their signature “Olde City” cocktails served up with a side of karaoke!

So next time you’re in Philadelphia, don’t forget to raise a glass (or two!) to the City of Brotherly Love. From craft beer, wine, and spirits to trendy bars and distilleries, something here will catch your eye!

The Whole World Is a Canvas

Philadelphia’s street art is more than just random doodles and scribbles – it’s their way of life. You’d rarely find a bland wall in this city; instead, they’re filled with awe-inspiring pieces from skilled local artists! From North to South, each neighborhood has something unique and special to offer regarding outdoor art.

Exploring the city and going on an art hunt is the best way to make the most of these masterpieces. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get out into nature, enjoy each mural’s beauty, and learn about its history. These works are often bold, vibrant, and thought-provoking, perfect for an Instagram photo op!

However, note that Philadelphia’s street art constantly evolves, so knowing where to look is the key! You may be unable to visit every single one of these murals, too, so it’s best to prioritize what you want to see. From daring and provocative to whimsical and beautiful, here are some of the city’s street art that’s sure to delight:

• How to Turn Anything Into Something Else (207 North Broad Street). This masterpiece is iconic, showcasing whimsical strokes and paintings from children’s imagination. It’s made by the famous art collective Miss Rockaway Armada and 31 art education students, making it all the more special.
• Pride and Progress (1315 Spruce Street). If you’re a huge supporter of the rainbow flag, you’d be pumped to see this extensive mural. It shows a wholesome scene of the Pride Parade, wherein people celebrate their identity at local landmarks.
• Common Threads (Broad and Spring Garden Streets). This mural depicts replicas of antique figurines, which give off a vintage vibe. However, once you look closely, you’ll find two high school students mirroring their poses. It has a significant meaning – there are common threads that link people across cultures and different periods.

These are just a few of the amazing murals in Philadelphia. Whether you’re looking for a pop of color on an otherwise dreary day or just want to take in some creative works, there’s plenty more to explore here!

Partake in the Ultimate Foodie Luxury

If there’s one thing you should know about Philadelphia, it’s a city that knows its way around a delicious meal. You can go as far as calling it the ultimate cornucopia for foodies, able to provide whatever your palate desires. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or an upscale dining experience, this place has it all!

For those who want a truly luxurious encounter, head over to Barclay Prime. Your mouth will water at its dry-aged steaks, paired with foie grass and truffled cheese whiz. Their oysters are also magnificent, especially when ordered with vintage or blanc de blancs champagne.

You can also drop by the Royal Sushi and Izakaya, but only if you book weeks in advance! Scheduling is well worth it since meals are made by chef Jesse Ito, a James Beard award finalist. Here, you can savor a 17-piece omakase or opt for seared king-salmon belly, and other seafood meals fit for royalty.

If you want to keep it a bit more low-key (and budget-friendly!), Philadelphia also has classic meals that will impress you! There’s the signature Philly cheesesteak, the ultimate dish no man can ever resist in the city. It’s made of thinly sliced steak piled high on a long roll and topped with melted cheese and your choice of toppings!

Another signature favorite in the City of Brotherly Love is the hoagie. It combines deli meats, cheese, tomatoes, and seasonings piled high onto a fresh Italian roll. It’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate and is a great choice for lunch and dinner due to being a heavy meal.

And if you’re craving something cold and sweet, Philadelphia’s water ice is there to save the day! It’s a fruity dessert made with a combination of fruit or syrup, with flavors ranging from strawberry to white grape and many more. It’s also the best treat after walking through the city nonstop since you can find it almost everywhere.

No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to love in the City of Brotherly Love. From classic comfort food to unique fine-dining dishes, the city has something that will tickle your taste buds!

Blessed and Coffee Obsessed

The City of Brotherly Love is no stranger to great coffee; it’s practically science here! This American destination loves its caffeine as much as its craft beers, so no wonder they have some of the best cafes around. From hipster java shops to classic neighborhood ones, you’ll find something for your caffeine fix in Philadelphia.

Each is an ideal spot to hang around, particularly if you need a boost during your city exploration. You can even settle for a cozy one to soothe your hangover after a night of cocktails and wine. Who knows, you may even meet your new favorite cup of joe during your hunt for the best café in town!

Here are some of the top coffee shops in Philadelphia, sure to satisfy your cravings for a pleasant caffeine dose:

• ReAnimator Coffee Roasters. A top-of-the-line artisanal roaster, this spot uses only the best ethically-sourced beans. They offer cups of joe so divine you won’t ever forget them in your lifetime. Plus, the shop itself is cozy and inviting, with free Wi-Fi to update the followers of your wonderful espresso order!
• Rival Bros Coffee Bar. The powerful chef and coffee roaster duo made this espresso bar a haven for java lovers. Here, you can taste high-class java cups and the shop’s original cold and delicious nitro coffee. There’s also The Derringer, a riff on cortado made with lots of milk for added creamy flavor.

Other cafés worth noting include Saxby’s Coffee, Uncle Bobby’s Coffee & Books, and many more! Overall, Philadelphia is a nice spot for coffee enthusiasts and people with a much-needed caffeine boost! Whether you’re looking for classics or creative seasonal drinks, you won’t be disappointed.

Which City Is Better – Boston or Philadelphia?

It’s the classic East Coast debate: which is the better destination, Boston or Philadelphia? Both cities are equally amazing, so it’s no wonder it’s a tough decision to make. However, when it comes down to it, there’s only one way to determine the clear winner. It’s to take a closer look at each American spot and decide which one appeals to you the most!

Boston is where you go if you’re craving the freshest ingredients sourced from the ocean. It’s also the ideal place to expand your knowledge about America or go on a journey to uncover your roots. Don’t forget Beantown’s entry for performing arts; each show is a masterpiece you’ll keep in your heart forever.

Meanwhile, head to Philadelphia if you find the beauty in street art and murals. It’s the spot for you if you want to witness masterpieces, particularly those made by modern human hands. On top of these, you can’t miss out on the city’s craft beer and phenomenal fine dining scene!

Boston vs. Philadelphia Tourism

When it comes to the tourism scene, no doubt Boston takes the cake. It’s a city that bagged sixth place in YouGov America’s list of The Most Popular Cities in America, with a popularity grade of 57%. In comparison, Philadelphia ranked twenty-second, with a rating of 52%.

Philadelphia Roll vs. Boston Roll

There’s no right or wrong answer when choosing which has the superior sushi roll. Both are delicious and special, so the only way to decide between them is to consider your preferences.

The Philadelphia Roll is a unique combination of sushi rice, smoked salmon, nori seaweed, cucumber, and cream cheese. Other recipes even include imitation crab, scallion, avocado, and sesame seed. It’s a Western-type sushi roll that combines both Japanese and Jewish cuisine, fit for those with a unique palette. Don’t be put off when some people say that sushi and cream cheese don’t mix – you can’t judge the Philly Roll until you’ve tried it!

Meanwhile, the Boston roll is a popular variation of the classic California roll. It’s made of poached shrimp instead of crabs, with nori seaweed, sushi rice, and cucumber. It’s best for those with a love for seafood, especially of the cooked variety. Tip: double up on the shrimp if you want to savor this roll to the fullest.

Philadelphia vs. Boston Size

When it comes to geographical mass, Philadelphia beats Boston hands down. It spans about 367 sq. km (142 sq. mi), while Beantown is only 232.1 sq. km (89.6 sq. mi). This is the same case in terms of population, with the City of Brotherly Love being home to 1,596,865 people. In comparison, Boston has only about 672,814 residents.

Is Boston or Philadelphia Bigger?

Philadelphia is bigger than Boston, be it in terms of land mass or population.

Boston vs. Philadelphia Population

If you’re going to compare Boston and Philadelphia based on population, the latter will win. The City of Brotherly Love ranked sixth in World Population Review’s list of Most Populated Cities in the United States. In comparison, Beantown bagged the twenty-third place.

To provide a bit more detail, Philadelphia has about 1,596,865 residents. Meanwhile, Boston only has an average of 672,814 locals. This shows that the City of Brotherly Love is over two times bigger than Beantown in terms of inhabitants.

Philadelphia to Boston Drive

The journey from Philadelphia to Boston via car spans 499 km (310 mi). This will take you about five hours to cross, but only if you’re not going to have any stopovers en route. However, if your goal is to have a leisurely road trip, then expect your journey to last for days or even weeks!

There’s no blaming you if this is the case; after all, the drive from Philadelphia to Boston will have you crossing five lovely US states. These are Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

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Boston or Philadelphia? - New York City Forum

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I was hoping some of you may be able to suggest which one is probably the better choice, in your opinion, to visit, please?

I understand Boston is somewhat further afield. I am into the history of different places very much, but guessing you can't go too wrong with either in that respect.

Any recommendations most welcome! Thanks.

Now if you can stay there a night or two, then it might be worth it. An added bonus is that often Boston hotels are dirt cheap that time of year unless there happens to be a special event going on during your dates. It could end up saving you money on your hotel budget vs spending the entire time at a NYC hotel.

Philly makes sense since you can get there via Amtrak in less than 1.5 hours and you can see a lot in one day.

For a day then Philly.

Philly. You'll enjoy it. Grab an early train, explore all day and get back to the city with ease.

>>>>Boston is too far for a day trip - 4 hours each way plus time to and from the station - and there is so much to see and do but one day might just be frustrating since you will have to miss so much.<<<<

I am not sure what "time to and from the station" means. Trains to Boston leave from Penn station , just like Amtrak trains to Philly. They arrive in Boston at either Back Bay station (very close to the Boston Publuc Librarysnd Trinity Church) or South Station (less than 15 minute walk to start of the freedom trail).

Happy Planning!

At least I still have some time to decide yet, and plan my schedule accordingly.

I'd do Philly unless you can add an overnight, in which case, I'd say Boston because I'm biased, I suppose! :)

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How to plan the perfect 2 week USA East Coast Itinerary – everything you need to know

If you have ever visited or thought about visiting the USA you will know how enormous the country is. Planning a trip takes a fair bit of time, and if you only have 2 weeks to visit then it can feel slightly overwhelming. You might be wondering where to visit like should you visit places such as LA and San Francisco, on the west coast, or New York and Boston on the east coast in America? Luckily we have some tips to help you start planning.

In order to make the most of your time you are best organising a trip based on the East or West Coast . In this post we have created a 2 week East Coast itinerary including Boston, Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington DC. We’ve also included Chicago for good measure, and while it isn’t quite the East Coast in America, it is pretty close in case you want to mix it up a bit. So here is everything you need to know about planning a 2 week east coast USA itinerary.

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Before you leave on your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary

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Before you leave on your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary you need to make sure you  apply for your ESTA . That is of course if you aren’t a US Citizen. If you are then you can skip this bit.

The ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation which allows entry to the USA under the Visa Waiver Programme. But this is only for certain countries such as Australia, UK and, Ireland. You will need to fill in a few questions online including your contact details, employment details, and passport information.

You also need to pay the $14 (approx) fee. Most often you will get a quick response as to whether this has been approved but sometimes it can take a few days. Mine took longer because I am a dual national so had to input two lots of passport details that needed to be checked. The ESTA is then valid for a series of multiple trips over a 2 year period. It also only allows you to stay in the USA for 90 days or less.

When you arrive in the USA for your 2 week East Coast trip, you will probably get asked questions in the airport such as ‘purpose of your visit’ and ‘where are you staying’. You might also get asked about budget and things like that. The USA has a strict immigration policy so these questions are normal when entering the country.

When planning you USA east coast itinerary here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• Check for any major events happening in a city before you visit. You don’t want to arrive somewhere and realise that a marathon is on for example, which means road closures and expensive hotels. And yes this did happen to us.
• This guide is based on flying, so if you are driving you might need more time to get between cities. The USA is huge!
• Really do your research on the cities you are visiting, and know which areas are good and which are best avoided.
• State laws can also differ so know the basics.
• TIP YOUR SERVER! In the UK and Australia I know this isn’t something we are used to as much, but in the US it makes up a large chunk of your servers wage.
• Get travel insurance, hospital visits are ridiculously expensive.

Ok before we get into the nitty gritty of an itinerary, you might be wondering why you should visit the East Coast in America?

If you love city breaks then the East Coast in America is a great place to visit. You have cities like New York, and Boston which are built up and compact compared to the likes of LA for example on the West Coast. The cities are exciting, and fast paced, with lots to see and do.

Weather in the East Coast in America, is varied depending on which part of the year you are visiting. You get warm sticky summers, and cold snowy winters. While parts of the West Coast tend to be a bit warmer throughout the year, the East Coast really experiences each of the four seasons.

If you are a culture buff then the East Coast is definitely worth a visit, particularly with world famous music schools, ballets and the theatre in places like New York and Boston. There is definitely more of a European influence on this side of the country, and you will see it with the buildings, and historic sites.

The more time you can spend on the East Coast the better, as there really is so much to see and do. We have created this USA East Coast itinerary for 2 weeks. This gives you enough time to settle in and explore at least the main cities that make up the East Coast. We are also focusing on mainly the Northern States because if you are looking at Florida and the other Southern States, you will need more time. If you are looking to see more of the USA, checkout our 2 week US travel itinerary here .

East Coast USA itinerary- day by day

Day 1 – Chicago

Day 2 – Chicago

Day 3 – Fly from Chicago to Washington DC

Day 4 – Washington DC

Day 5 – Washington DC

Day 6 – Fly to Philadelphia

Day 7 – Philadelphia

Day 8 – Travel to New York City

Day 9 – New York

Day 10 – New York

Day 11 – New York

Day 12 – Travel to Boston

Day 13 – Boston

Day 14 – Boston

This guide is starting in Chicago. For us this was because of flight schedules. Boston and New York are also large airports with a lot of European flights coming in daily, so these are also good options for starting your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary.

We recommend flying into Chicago. As mentioned above it isn’t on the East Coast, but it is such an incredible city that so many people overlook, and so we wanted to include it. We also wanted to fly out of New York City so decided to fly in to Chicago as there were a number of flights here. We got into Chicago late at night so we haven’t included that in our post. Feeling the effects of jet lag we went straight to bed so the trip really didn’t start until the next morning. For a more detailed guide, you can have a look at our 2 days in Chicago , but in the meantime here are the must do’s in Chicago.

Why visit Chicago

Chicago is a big city with a lot of flight options so a great destination if you are flying in from Europe for example. If you love big cities, architecture, and history Chicago is for you. There are lots of world class museums in Chicago, and some really good food too.

Chicago is a great introductory city on your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary as it’s not as hectic as New York, and it gives you the chance to get used to the culture and customs of the USA.

Wondering if Chicago is worth visiting ? Here is a handy guide.

Things to do in Chicago

☞ Architecture Cruise

This is a must in Chicago. The moment you arrive in the city you won’t be able to stop looking up, as the buildings are gorgeous. A cruise is a great way to orient yourself with the city, and particularly if you are still jet lagged you can just sit and stare at all the beautiful buildings.

There are a number of different cruises you can book and we have included some links below for you to look at. We do recommend booking your cruise in advance as these do get really popular particularly in the summer months.

☞ Navy Pier

The Pier is full of rides and restaurants and is a great place to go especially on a beautiful Chicago day. One of the must see attractions here is the Centennial Wheel. It reaches a height of almost 200 ft and has some pretty fantastic views of Chicago. Tickets can be  purchased online in advance , and you even have the option to skip the queue which is always handy.

☞ John Hancock Centre (360 Chicago)

A great place to go for some incredible views over the city and there is also a bar! You can’t visit Chicago without enjoying some incredible city views and John Hancock Centre is a great place to do this.

Purchase your ticket online in advance  to skip to queue.

☞ Willis Tower (Skydeck)

Another great place to enjoy the views of Chicago , but this time with a glass panel to get some really amazing photos. Willis Tower is probably the more iconic of the two viewing platforms in Chicago. Just make sure you get there early to try and avoid the swarms of tourists.

Again we recommend purchasing your tickets  online in advance .

☞ Millennium Park

This is where you go to take that selfie with the famous Chicago Bean. It’s also a really cool space to walk around and explore.

If you want to learn more about the park you can even  do a self guided tour .

☞ The Art Institute of Chicago

This is one of the best galleries in the country and houses works from Picasso to Andy Warhol. You can skip the queues and  purchase your tickets here in advance .

Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

When you are short of time sometimes the best way to get to grips with a new city whilst covering a lot of ground is to do a hop on hop off bus tour. You get to see all of Chicago’s top sights from the comfort of  a double decker bus .

Chicago obviously has a history laden with gangsters and criminals, so  this mob tour  is great if you are looking for something a little different. This was one of my favourite memories from visiting Chicago, and I felt like I learnt so much about the seedy history of the city but in a really fun and interesting way.

Getting from the Airport

Once you arrive in Chicago there are a few ways to get to the downtown area. The cheapest and often quickest way to get downtown is via the L Train. The Blue Line should have you in the downtown area in approximately 45 minutes.

If you are however, severely jet lagged and the thought of negotiating a subway line with giant suitcases scares you (you are not alone), then the next best thing is to get the airport shuttle bus. They are slightly cheaper than a taxi and take you straight to the front door of your hotel. Just be mindful that the journey can be quite long, particularly during peak hour. You can book and pay for your shuttle at one of the designated booths at the airport. The good thing as well is that you can pre book your return trip to the airport too.

Where to stay in Chicago

If you can, stay in the downtown area. Particularly on a short trip it makes it so much easier to get around in a limited time. We ended up visiting Chicago the same weekend as the Chicago marathon, so we had to book accommodation a little out of the centre. If you do decide to book accommodation out of the downtown area then make sure it is close to a subway line.

Eating and drinking in Chicago

Two things that you must do when you visit Chicago are, eat a deep dish pizza and visit a speakeasy. The deep dish pizza is one of those foods that you either love or hate. We happened to love it. There are a number of places in the city that serve it and we ended up at Pizano’s . To wash the dish down, you have to visit a speakeasy. Our top recommendation is the Green Door Tavern located in the downtown area.

Days 3 – 5 Washington DC

Flights from Chicago to DC are pretty regular and the flight time is just under 2 hours. Depending on what time you fly, you can either spend your morning exploring the last few bits of Chicago or if you take an earlier flight you can spend your afternoon exploring Washington DC. There are so many things to do in Washington DC particularly if you are visiting during the Cherry Blossom Festival . But if not here are some other things we think you might find interesting.

Things to do in Washington DC

Before we get into things to do in Washington DC, we should add that it is a really interesting place to visit. Most people think of politics when they think of DC and yes there is a lot of that, but there is also a lot of history. There are a lot of museums to visit and so much to learn here and it really is worth your time.

For a detailed 2 day Washington DC itinerary you can checkout this post.

☞  The White House

This is the obvious attraction. Even if you aren’t fond of the person in it, it is still pretty amazing to see. To me I think this is one of the most famous buildings in the world, so seeing it in person (albeit behind a gate from a distance) was such an amazing moment.

☞  The War Memorials

This was a poignant place to visit especially when you realise how many people have died as a result of war. The memorials are located in the National Mall and they honour those that fought in World War 2, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

☞  The Washington Monument

This is one monument along the National Mall that you cannot miss. It is an obelisk to commemorate George Washington, the first US president.

☞ Capitol Building

This is a truly impressive building, and you don’t have to understand politics to see that. You can go on a tour but security is really tight and the lines are really long. Again this is another building you see on TV so much so seeing it in real life is quite incredible.

One of the tours you can pre-book is this tour of Capitol Hill and the Library of Congress.

☞ The Holocaust Memorial Museum

This is probably one of the most moving museums you will ever visit. It really gives you a haunting insight into what happened during World War 2. There were times in here that I was moved to tears. It’s well worth a visit.

☞ Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Like most of the museums and galleries in DC this one is free. But the lines can get crazy quickly.Visiting early morning is generally ok and the lines aren’t too bad. There are so many cool things to see here from the first airplanes to space capsules. It is a really interesting place to visit as it reminds you of how the pioneers of air and space travel have impacted our lives today.

☞ National Archives

A visit to the National Archives will certainly be something to remember. Especially because you can see the original paperwork that saw the start of the great USA. You can even do a small group tour showing you the highlights.

☞ Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

You might be sensing a theme here with all the museums. Another brilliant one to visit the the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, which is home to the largest Natural History collection in the world. There is a lot to see, so if you are short on time you can pre-book a highlights tour here .

☞ Hop On Hop Off Bus tour

A Hop On Hop Off tour is a great way to learn about the history of Washington DC, whilst covering a good amount of ground too. You can book your tickets online in advance here .

☞  The Lincoln Memorial

If you are interested in history the Lincoln Memorial is the place where Martin Luther King Jr delivered his “I have a dream speech”.

Why visit Washington DC

Washington is great particularly if you are interested in politics. It is also home to some of the best museums in the country so it should not be missed.

You can get public transport into Downtown DC from the airport, but the quickest and easiest way to get to your hotel is to book an airport shuttle.

Where to stay in Washington DC

The main tourist sights and museums are all located around the National Mall, so ideally you want to stay around this area or at least close to a metro station. Downtown DC or Georgetown tend to be quite popular areas, but these areas tend to be slightly swankier and more expensive. Or why not treat yourself to one of the many Washington DC hotels with rooftop pools .

Eating and drinking in Washington DC

Keeping in mind there are a lot of foreign embassies in DC you will notice that food is influenced from all over the world. Chinese and Thai cuisine are really popular as well, and where you eat, will depend on the area you are staying in. If you get the chance, we recommend a food tour of Washington DC that gives you a taste (no pun intended) of what the city has to offer.

You can either fly from Washington DC to Philadelphia, get the bus, or the Amtrak. It’s under an hour flight time, which is your quickest option but if you are worried about costs you can get the bus. Although keep in mind that this could take around 4 hours depending on traffic.

Things to do in Philadelphia

☞ Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell is probably the most recognisable symbol of freedom, particularly in the US. Make sure you get that all important Liberty Bell selfie!

☞ Independence Hall

This is the place in 1776 where the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in the Assembly Room. If that is not impressive enough for you, a mere 11 years later this is where the US Constitution was created as well.

☞ Philadelphia Museum of Art

If you have watched the Rocky Films you will know that the Museum is home to one of the most famous running scenes in movie history. The Museum is also pretty impressive itself and is one of the largest in the country.

☞ City Hall

This is one beautiful building and is actually the largest municipal building in the USA.

☞ Reading Terminal Market

This is the USA’s oldest farmers market and is a total foodies paradise.

A hop on hop off bus tour is always a great way to orient yourself with a city, and you can pre-book your Philadelphia tour here .

☞ Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most expensive and famous prisons in the world. And like Alcatraz Al Capone was once a prisoner here. To book your entry ticket in advance you can go to Get Your Guide .

Why visit Philadelphia

Some might say that Philadelphia is the birth place of the USA, so with that in mind who wouldn’t want to visit? Plus you have that delicious Philly Cheesesteak so there is that too.

The quickest and easiest way to get from the airport is via the train. There is a regional rail line that picks you up at the airport and gets you to the centre in about 25 minutes, and it is only $8.

Where to stay in Philadelphia

Ideally you do want to stay in the city centre. That way you will be close to transport links as well as the major tourist attractions.

Eating and drinking in Philadelphia

As mentioned above the Reading Terminal Market is a foodies paradise. There are stalls with local produce but also around 30 restaurants to chow down on some good quality food here. And since it is Philadelphia you HAVE to try the Philly Cheesesteak.

It takes about an hour to fly from Philadelphia to New York City, with several flights leaving everyday. You can also get a bus or travel via Amtrack. If you are driving you are probably looking at about 2 hours drive time. We would recommend getting into New York as early as possible.

As they say it is the city that never sleeps and you are going to want to spend as much time here as possible. Here is a comprehensive guide of things to do in case you want to delve a little deeper . We also have a guide for visiting New York when it rains.  

Things to do in New York

There is so much to do in New York it can be overwhelming deciding where to stay. Here is an overview. And if you want more ideas checkout our New York bucket list .

☞ Central Park

This vast green space in the middle of the city is a must. Here you will find row boats, fountains, horses and carts, and a garden dedicated to the memory of John Lennon, and that is just the beginning.

Central Park was a must for us especially because we had seen it so many times in the movies or on TV. In fact you can even do a  tour of Central Park  that takes you to all the famous filming locations.

☞ Brooklyn Bridge

One of the most iconic structures in New York has to be the Brooklyn Bridge. And taking the walk across is a must do when visiting the city.

☞ Empire State Building

Probably one of the most recognised buildings in New York is the Empire State. From the 86th floor you get some incredible views of the city, making you realise just how crowded New York City is. To skip the lines make sure you buy your  ticket online in advance .

☞ Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock is a great place to go if you want views of the city which include the Empire State Building. It’s also a cultural hub in the city, and home to the famous lighting of the Christmas tree in December.

If you are tossing up between the Empire State and Top of the Rock here is a handy guide to help you decide which one to visit.

Again tickets can be  purchased online in advance .

☞ The High Line

Created on a disused train track, the High Line is a garden oasis in the middle of a busy city. It is a great place to go to relax and take it all in.

☞ Statue of Liberty

Another must in New York is of course the iconic Statue of Liberty. You can either book a tour that takes you directly to Liberty Island as well as Ellis Island, or alternatively hop on the Staten Island Ferry to catch a glimpse.

If you go down the tour route you probably want to set aside a full day for this, as there is a lot to see and do. Also a tip, we tried to buy tickets on the day and spent ages queuing, so we highly recommend that you purchase these  online in advance .

☞ Explore the Neighbourhoods

New York has some incredible neighbourhoods. For a comprehensive guide and trip suggestions checkout this post .

☞ Visit the Museums

New York has some pretty amazing museums, from the Natural History to the Guggenheim. You cannot visit the city without seeing at least one museum. Also just putting this out there but there is an Ice Cream Museum in New York too. So literally a museum for everyone.

There are a number of airports in New York, and most of them have a shuttle bus that will take you straight to your hotel. Just be mindful that New York traffic can be pretty bad. But ultimately it is cheaper than a taxi which is handy.

Where to stay in New York

We ended up staying near Times Square which was great on a short trip, but if you are visiting for a bit longer, we recommend staying in one of the neighbourhoods like the East Village for example. There is a lot more atmosphere and you get to see the less touristy side of New York. No matter where you stay though, you really want to make sure you are near a subway station which will make getting around New York so much easier.

Eating and drinking in New York

We actually wrote a post all about the foods you need to try in New York . There is so much choice and it is hard to narrow down. There are some great places to eat and drink in the East Village including our favourite 24 hour Ukrainian diner  Veselka , it is also a great place for drinks and one of our favourite bars was The Immigrant . Another must is a visit to the Dominque Ansel Bakery which is of course the home of the famous Cronut.

Wondering is New York worth visiting ? This post will help you decide.

With our itinerary you don’t really get to spend a whole lot of time in Boston, which depending on what you want to do here is either good or bad. If you want more time in Boston obviously you can cut back a day in New York City. The flight from New York is a little over an hour and again there are regular flights daily.

Things to do in Boston

☞ Boston Common

This is the oldest public park in the US and is such a key part of the city’s landscape. It is great to visit all year round with the summer months full of people playing sports or reading. In the winter it is a great place to go ice skating.

☞ Boston Harbour Cruise

A harbour cruise is a must in Boston. There are several options you can book onto, some including food and drink.

☞ Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

For a hop on hop off tour with a difference you can do this tour on a trolleybus in Old Town Boston.

☞ Museum of Fine Arts

Here is a handy tip – you can actually enter the museum free on Wednesdays after 4pm.

☞  Go to Harvard

If you want to be able to say “I went to Harvard” followed by a very softly spoken ‘to visit’ then visiting the University is a must. The iconic redbrick walls and stunning architecture definitely make it somewhere you will want to visit.

☞ Freedom Trail

This 2.5 mile long trail takes you past 16 locations that are significant in US history. This is probably one of the best things to do in Boston and is well worth the walk. There are several different tours you can book on and we have added some below to give you a taste.

☞ Fenway Park

If you love baseball, or even if you don’t, Fenway Park is worth seeing. It is actually one of the oldest ball parks in the US and is home to one of the most well known Baseball teams, the Boston Red Sox. If you want to do a tour here is a great 1 hour guided tour you can book.

The easiest way to get to Downtown Boston is by bus before transferring to a train. If you hop on the free shuttle this will take you to South Station where you can transfer onto the Red Line train. There is also a water shuttle you can catch particularly if you are staying around the Waterfront area of the city.

Where to stay in Boston

Boston Common and Downtown are one of the more central areas to stay, however the financial district and waterfront are also popular. Boston is a beautiful city and relatively easy to get around so as long as you base yourself around public transport you should be fine.

Eating and drinking in Boston

One of our favourite places to eat in Boston has to be Chinatown. This is home to some of the best dumplings we have eaten. Donuts are also a pretty big deal in Boston, so make sure you eat plenty! In fact this is a really cool underground Donut tour that we recommend.

Taverns are also a pretty big deal in Boston, so you can also book yourself on a Historical Tavern Tour to learn more about the history.

Here is our East Coast USA map, that covers our trip itinerary.

You might be wondering if 2 weeks is enough for an East Coast USA itinerary. Honest answer No. But that might also be because it feels like no amount of time is enough to see the USA. As we only had 2 weeks, we did have to limit the number of places we visited on our trip. But all is not lost. A 2 week East Coast USA itinerary will give you enough time to explore a good 4 or 5 cities. You will be able to explore the key tourist attractions, eat some amazing food, and get to grips with the history as well.

If you want to explore more of the East Coast including the more southern states then you will probably want to add a good week or 2.

Before planning your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary you might be wondering when the best time of year to visit is. Summer is most definitely peak travel season (June – August). And you have that added stress in August of school holidays. If you are planning on traveling around the US at this time make sure that you book accommodation well in advance, as well as your tours and attractions.

Summer can be really warm on the East Coast especially in places like New York City. You might find it unbearably sticky at times. So if you don’t fancy walking around Central Park in the humidity this might not be the best time to visit.

The best time really to plan your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary will be in the shoulder seasons, so either spring (March- May) or Autumn especially September and October. Personally Autumn (or fall) is one of our favourite times to visit because you get to see the beautiful leaves change colour and begin to fall. It’s especially beautiful visiting somewhere like New York City, or Boston. Although spring in Washington DC is especially beautiful with the Cherry Blossoms.

Winters can be harsh in some of the places we have mentioned in this guide, especially Chicago and New York. So adverse weather may hinder your plans to see certain attractions. That being said December in New York is incredible with the build-up to the Christmas season. And there is something especially cosy about warming yourself in a pub in Boston on a cold winters day.

Ok, so budgeting for your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary is a tough one. It will all depend on where you want to stay, and what you want to see. For a mid-range holiday we would probably recommend budgeting about $3000 per person for the 2 weeks.

We found accommodation to be quite expensive in the USA, particularly if you want to stay in a central location in one of the big cities we have listed. On average you are looking at about $200 per night for a mid range hotel room that is centrally located. This can sometimes be more in places like New York and Chicago.

Food is slightly cheaper in the US then say Europe or Australia (but don’t forget to tip at restaurants), and you could probably get away with spending about $50 per person if you were trying to budget. Although cheap food usually doesn’t equal good food so keep that in mind.

Yes! If you are on the fence about planning a trip to the USA then take this as a sign to go. The East Coast is a really beautiful part of the USA, with incredible architecture, fast paced cities, and so much more.

We hope this 2 week East Coast USA travel guide and itinerary will help you plan your next trip. We recommend using this as a guide and tailoring it to suit your own needs. If you want more time in each place, maybe skip Chicago or Washington DC.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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I really like how detailed your itinerary is. Will definitely pin it for when I get chance to do this trip! Great one!

Thank you so much. Hope it helps!

Love this! I’m a west coastie, but I really need to get to the East Coast. This sounds like such a perfect trip!

Thank you! Exhausting and hectic but definitely very memorable.

Wow, this is a super itinerary! There are many places I’d like to see when visiting the USA 🙂 I have always wanted to explore the East Coast. Thanks for sharing this!!

Thank you for reading. There are certainly a lot of beautiful places along the East Coast. x

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Philadelphia Itinerary

Last Updated on February 27, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

As the second-largest city on the East Coast and one of the oldest in the nation, planning a 2 to 3 days in Philadelphia itinerary is a highlight of any trip. Whether you’re visiting Philadelphia alone or in conjunction with other major East Coast cities, the City of Brotherly Love has more than enough to offer its visitors during their stay.

Philly has a convenient location. It’s a large city with plenty to fill your trip to Philadelphia without the same overwhelming energy as nearby cities like New York City.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Philadelphia?

It’s common to wonder how many days to spend in Philadelphia in order to see the top sites of the city without feeling rushed – or bored.

With 2 days – or if you’re planning a weekend trip – you have enough time to see the highlights and historical landmarks before departing.

If you have 3 days in Philly, you’ll have plenty of time to see the best landmarks as well as venture off the beaten path. 

Seeing Philadelphia is best for those who want a chance to venture beyond the city while still catching the highlights inside it. You can take a day trip via train or bus to a nearby natural site and get a break from the city.

In short, 2 days or a weekend in Philadelphia will give you enough time for the highlights whereas 3 days allows for time to dig deeper.

Getting To & Around Philadelphia

Due to its close proximity to New York City , Washington DC , Baltimore, Boston , and other large cities, it’s easy to reach Philadelphia by bus or train.

The shortest of these options takes only one hour (coming from New York City by train) with the longest taking a few hours. You can view train schedules here.

Buses are the most affordable option. Both buses and trains will deliver their passengers to the city center, making it easy to reach your accommodation from there. 

If you’re flying directly into Philadelphia, you’ll arrive through Philadelphia International Airport. It’s located about 7 miles from the city. You can call a rideshare, organise a transfer or taxi to drive into the city. Taxis charge a flat rate of $32 (with a $1 surcharge per additional passenger > 1) to get to and from the airport from the city center.

You can also reserve a seat on an airport shuttle—some even take you directly to your accommodation. You can also take public transportation. 

The city of Philadelphia is considered one of the most walkable in the country as it is an old city designed before the wide use of cars.

Many of the most popular landmarks are located near each other. The layout of the city is simple—the north/south streets are numbered whereas the east/west streets are named after trees.

There are signs throughout downtown that guide visitors to walk around the city, catching all the main historical sites. It’s also easy to call a Lyft or Uber, or hail a taxi.

Philadelphia also has an underground public transit system that works well for quickly getting across the city. 

2 or 3-Day Philadelphia Itinerary

Whether you’re seeing Philadelphia in 2 days or 3 days, you won’t have any shortage of ways to spend your time. 

Day 1 – Downtown Philadelphia Highlights

The first day of this itinerary explores some of the highlights of Downtown Philadelphia. If you want to learn more about the history of the city, consider taking this historic walking tour or this cultural tour that explores another of the attractions listed below with a tour guide.

Independence Hall

Along with many of the historic buildings in Washington DC, Independence Hall is probably one of the most famous structures in American history. Here is where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed.

In fact, before DC, Philadelphia was the capital of the USA after the Constitution was ratified and where presidents George Washington and John Adams had official residences.

From March to December, you can only enter Independence Hall with a timed, ticketed tour. In January and February, the Independence Hall entrance is first-come, first-served, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting during this time.

The tour lasts around 20 minutes. Guides take visitors through the Assembly Room and first floor of the Hall, providing important context to the rich history of this building. 

Liberty Bell

The State House Bell, also known as the Liberty Bell, is an iconic part of Philadelphia’s history. This bell was actually a replica.

The first cracked the first time someone attempted to ring it and a second was promptly made. The bell seen today was originally housed in Independence Hall and intended to call lawmakers and townspeople to gather.

No one knows for certain how the infamous crack occurred. During your visit to the Liberty Bell Center, you’ll learn about the history and lore surrounding the bell. You don’t need a ticket to visit, but make sure you check the center’s hours prior to visiting. 

Museum of the American Revolution 

Continue your exploration of the history of the American Revolution with a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution. This huge collection of art and artefacts from the country’s path to achieving independence is a perfect crash course of the time period.

The galleries of the museum are organized in chronological order, so you’ll walk through history during your visit. You’ll be able to enjoy excellent storytelling and fascinating artefacts from a pivotal time in American history. You can pre-book tickets here .

And if you want to dive even deeper into this era of history, make sure to visit the nearby Betsy Ross House – home to the woman who sewed the first American flag!

Philadelphia City Hall

If you still have some energy after seeing many of the top attractions in Philadelphia, consider paying a visit to the City Hall. It’s the largest municipal building in the United States, with over 14.5 acres of floor space, and is an architectural wonder to see both inside and out. Inside, you can take a tour that details the history and creation of the city.

You can also climb to the top of the tower for excellent views of the city.

City Hall is home to the office of the city mayor and the chambers of the Philadelphia City Council. Entrance to the museum, tower, and building itself is free, but make sure you check the opening times for when you’re there. 

Before you leave the area, head to the iconic LOVE statue that sits just northwest of City Hall in JFK Plaza (also known as Love Park). It was installed in 1976 and has since become an icon for the City of Brotherly Love.

Eat a Philly Cheesesteak 

No visit to Philadelphia is complete without eating a Philly cheesesteak. The most authentic cheesesteaks have thinly-sliced ribeye steak, cheese (American, provolone or Cheez Whiz), fried onion, mushrooms, or bell peppers all tucked into a hoagie roll.

As the name suggests, Philadelphia is the birthplace of this now legendary sandwich. The city is filled with some of the best places in the country to find one. You can take a food tour to learn more about the city’s food scene.

Day 2 – Museums and Markets

Philadelphia museum of art.

Nearly every major city has an art museum for its visitors and locals to enjoy. Philadelphia boasts one of the largest in the country, making it a must-see for guests.

The building towers at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on the banks of the Schuylkill River and houses a huge collection of work. More than 240,000 pieces of art from 2,000 years of history live here. You’ll find suits of armor, a complete 14th-century Buddhist temple, and works from Picasso all under one roof.

The building was expanded as recently as 2021, allowing the museum to open new exhibits and extend its permanent collection. Of course, the stairs leading to the museum are also famous and known as the “Rocky Steps” – so-called after the 1976 film.

Those wanting even more art can also visit the nearby Rodin Museum – or add it to the itinerary if they’re spending more than 2 days in Philadelphia. Alternatively, begin your day at the Eastern State Penitentiary Museum where you can learn about some famous inmates (including Al Capone) and go through a haunted house.

The Franklin Institute

Named after the highly revered inventor and founding father Benjamin Franklin, the Franklin Institute is one of the most treasured science museums in the country. The museum specializes in interactive displays that walk visitors through several areas of science.

The earliest iteration of the Franklin Institute opened in Independence Hall in 1824 to showcase the inventions of Benjamin Franklin. Today, it’s one of Philadelphia’s most-visited landmarks.

During your visit, don’t forget to stop by the museum’s trademark: a 20-foot tall marble statue of the museum’s namesake, Benjamin Franklin. After the museum, you could opt to take a stroll to Rittenhouse Square, a nearby lovely park, or simply make your way to the next stop on this itinerary.

Reading Terminal Market

Looking for a unique place to grab a bite to eat midday? Go no further than Reading Terminal Market.

As one of the oldest public markets in America, Reading Terminal is chock-full of local vendors and food stalls. There are over 80 merchants that specialize in preparing food from all over the world. You can also find some of the city’s best Philly cheesesteaks.

If you’re looking for the perfect souvenir, this might be the place. Along with food, there are artisans selling handmade crafts to American quilts. 

Elfreth’s Alley Museum

Philadelphia is a city filled with many landmarks that are the oldest of their kind. Elfreth’s Alley is no exception. Here is the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the country. It’s a narrow stone street with brick buildings on either side.

Greenery and colorful window shutters bring the street to life. In its earliest years, Elfreth’s Alley was the home of 18th-century artisans and tradespeople who helped build Philadelphia from the ground up. 300 years later, the stretch of untouched homes was named a National Historic Landmark.

You can stroll down the street on your own or sign up for a guided tour.

Day 3 – Dig Deeper in Philly

Longwood gardens.

If you’re short on time in Philadelphia and want a taste of nature during your visit, head to the Longwood Gardens. Located just about an hour outside the city, the gardens are a great way to spend a quiet morning or afternoon during your last day in the area.

The garden houses over 9,000 species of plants across 1,000 acres. There are walking paths to enjoy the area as well as a botanic garden with fountain shows and stunning landscape.

Make sure you see the Italian Water Garden, Flower Garden Walk, and Pierce’s Woods. While exploring, don’t be surprised if you come across a variety of wildlife. A visit here is a relaxing way to conclude your visit to Philadelphia. 

The quickest way to reach Longwood Gardens is by Amtrak. From there, you can reserve a shuttle service 24 hours in advance to reach the gardens or call a rideshare. There are also four bus lines that run from Philadelphia to Longwood.

If you have a car during your visit, it will take you around 45 minutes, depending on traffic, to reach the gardens. You can also take an organised tour. You should plan to spend 3 to 4 hours there.  

Barnes Foundation

Lovers of art should make time for the Barnes Foundation – it’s one of the best things to do in Philadelphia. Here is one of the world’s most respected collections of French impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. Here, visitors will find 181 pieces of art by Renior, 69 pieces of Cezanne, and an exquisite collection of African Art.

Along with the permanent exhibit, the Barnes Foundation has a rotating series of temporary exhibits that include works from major artists throughout history. It was established in 1922 and is a charming way to spend an afternoon of your Philadelphia itinerary. 

Philadelphia Zoo

Before you leave Philadelphia, pay a visit to America’s first zoo: the Philadelphia Zoo.

As one of the best-designed zoos in the country, exploring these exhibits is simultaneously relaxing and engaging. Over 1,300 animals, many rare or engaged, call this zoo home. Make sure you visit some highlights like Big Cat Falls, the McNeil Avian Center, the PECO Primate Reserve, and the interactive wildlife exhibits aimed at kids.

The zoo opened in 1874 and has since rehabilitated countless animals. Here is a great stop if you’re traveling with kids or if you just love spending an afternoon learning more about wild animals. 

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

You might’ve seen photos of Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens online. These intricate indoor and outdoor mosaics make for beautiful photo ops.

The gardens began when a local artist, Isaiah Zagar, started hanging tiles on South Street in the 1960s. Today, the mosaics are constructed out of tiles, bottles, ceramic shards, bicycle spokes, and other pieces of art supplies.

Over the years, the garden has gained public support that preserved the windy corridors of art. It’s worth adding to your itinerary, especially if you’re looking for something that is uniquely Philly and isn’t another historical landmark.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

Alexander Inn – This quaint, boutique bed and breakfast is an excellent option for mid-range visitors to the City of Brotherly Love. They have a number of great rooms to choose from, a central location for exploring the city and breakfast available each morning.

The Notary Hotel – Those looking for a high-end stay in Philadelphia will love this swanky hotel in the center of the city. They have a range of plush rooms to choose from, an excellent location for exploring all the highlights of the city and plenty of great amenities for guests to enjoy.

The Windsor Suites – If you’re looking for both a luxurious stay while also having some self-catering facilities, then these suites are a great option. There are a range of suites to choose from — all fully furnished and equipped with a kitchenette — along with an on-site restaurant/bar and other fantastic amenities.

Apple Hostels – Budget and solo travelers will love this highly-rated hostel located in the heart of the Old City. They have a range of both dorms and private rooms to choose from along with good common areas and self-catering facilities for guests to use.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Philadelphia hotels!

Philadelphia is home to both historical and cultural landmarks. This dynamic metropolis gives visitors a blend of old and new as they get acquainted with the city. Use this itinerary for seamless trip planning for the ultimate Philadelphia trip.

Are you planning to visit Philly? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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Boston and Philadelphia: A Tale of Two Historic Cities

Boston Public Garden. Photo: Massachusetts Office of Tourism

What’s Your Pick: Boston or Philadelphia?

Independence Hall by D. Cruz for VISIT PHILADELPHIA

While the distance between of Boston and Philadelphia are located about a three-hour drive or six-hour Amtrak trek apart, these major cities have one big thing in common. They’re sources of history. And the modern day scene in these respective cities is thriving too. Here’s what to see in each state.

Boston Common in the fall. Photo credit: Tim Grafft/MOTT

History Is Happening!

Boston has many trails and locations connecting you to key figures linked to Beantown or in particular the start of the American Revolution.

Walk along the Freedom Trail, a self-guided, 2.5-route that will bring you past 16 historic sites. Pass by Boston Common, also known as America’s oldest park; The Paul Revere House – where the famous nightrider lived during the time of his legendary ride, to its end point, The Bunker Hill Monument, honoring soldiers in one of the earliest battles in the American Revolutionary War. The African American Trail will bring to you stops such as the Robert Gould Shaw and the 54 th Regiment Memorial, which commemorates the regiment that was made famous in the film, “Glory.”

Independence Hall. Photo by J. Fusco for VISIT PHILADELPHIA

In comparison, Philadelphia clearly has a stronghold on U.S. history – for starters, the Liberty Bell at the Liberty Bell Center. In April 2017, the Museum of the American Revolution opened its doors, to tell the story of why our nation went to being a British colony to a new country in a different light. It goes beyond the usual key players by highlighting other figures such as freed and enslaved blacks, native peoples, and women. Then there’s Independence Hall, where our Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence and later on delegates would work on our Constitution. Also, did you know that the first “White House” – as in one before the famous home in D.C. – was in Philadelphia. Called The President’s House, this venue is now an open-air museum where the first Executive Mansion in which Presidents Washington and John Adams stayed.

Photo: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Being Artsy and Scientific

The arts and sciences have their place in Boston and Philly. In Boston, you can spend a whole day at the Museum of Fine Arts. Its three levels house everything from Egyptian artifacts to Contemporary American art, with pieces from every corner of the globe. A short walk away, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum reflects the look of a Venetian palace with a beautiful courtyard along with a collection owned by its namesake, a major collector and philanthropist. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum honors the legacy of our country’s 35th Commander in Chief. The Mary Baker Eddy Library contains the Mapparium, a three-story, stained glass globe that can be walked through, and the Museum of Science will teach you a thing or two with planetarium shows and live exhibits and experiences like its butterfly garden.

Philadelphia Museum of Art / Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia

Philly can boast having the oldest museum in the country – the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. It’s got some other fine ones too. Climbing up “The Rocky Steps” to the east entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art feels like a workout, but you’ll encounter the statue of Philly icon, Rocky Balboa. Inside the museum, discover artistic and architectural finds from all over the world, with an over 240,000-piece collection!

The Rodin Museum has the most pieces by this sculptor outside of Paris and Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a fun folk art/gallery space that’s covered in mosaics. If seeking science, The Franklin Institute is an educationally entertaining museum and research center with an IMAX theater and planetarium, while the Mütter Museum focuses on medical abnormalities with displays that might make you a bit squeamish.

Boston Public Market. Photo by Massachusetts Office of Tourism

Getting hungry? Both Boston and Philly can fill you up at markets or in eateries. An indoor enclave, Boston Public Market sells New England sourced bounty from farmers, fishers, and food product vendors, or features demos and classes at The Kitchen, the market’s programming center. Inside this historic meeting hall, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is now more a mall setup with food stands and restaurants offering staples like pizza, ice cream and chowda. On Fridays and Saturdays, the outdoor Haymarket at Congress and Hanover streets sells fruits and veggies. Boston’s North End is its Little Italy, with pizzerias, cafes and ristorantes such as Giacomo’s Restaurant. As for other restaurants, a hot seafood spot is Neptune Oyster, being well-noted for its raw bar and lobster rolls, or Atlantic Fish Company, a Boston surf and turf institution.

Reading Terminal Market. Photo by R. Kennedy for VISIT PHILADELPHIA

As one of Philly’s major culinary attractions, the Reading Terminal Market is an interior food hall with a cornucopia of Amish specialties, seafood and produce stands, cookware stores, and bakeries and restaurants. Of course, you have to try a Philly cheesesteak, but note there are more places to choose from than the noted rivalry between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. McNally’s puts theirs on a Kaiser roll, and Jimmy Fallon was seen digging Dalessandro’s Steaks. Have a hoagie at shops ranging from a tofu type at Fu Wah to the hearty stuffed at Cosmi’s Deli. Explore Chinatown and perhaps go for a late night meal at David’s Mai Lai Wah for their noodles and dumplings.

Get started on planning your visit by looking at these Trip.com recommended hotels in Boston or Philly.   Tell me which historic city would you head to first.

This post is part of Trip.com’s Underdog City campaign.

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The Perfect 3 Days in Boston Itinerary (2024 Update)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Planning a trip to Beantown and wondering what to do? Keep reading for an incredible 3 days in Boston itinerary!

Few cities are as important in the history of the United States as Boston. In fact, the capital of Massachusetts is known as the “Cradle of Liberty” for its role in the American Revolution.

Those interested in the early history of the USA will absolutely love visiting Boston. And you can cover some solid ground over a long weekend in the city.

In addition to all the historical sights, Boston boasts several world-class museums and some of the best universities in the world.

It’s also a top-notch sports city, with some of the most successful teams of all time like the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics and New England Patriots.

If you’re ready to plan a perfect vacation in Boston, read on for a solid gameplan for visiting this historic American city.

My epic itinerary will take you to:

READ MORE: Check out our brand new, complete guide on the best things to do in Boston !

Table of Contents

When to Visit Boston

Getting around boston, boston citypass, freedom trail, faneuil hall, finish the freedom trail, back to the park, newbury street, skywalk observatory, explore the waterfront, choose your own adventure, christopher columbus waterfront park, new england aquarium, take a unique tour, hit a museum, visit a brewery, catch a game, museum of your choice, back bay fens, fenway park, jfk national historic site, best hostel in boston – hi boston, best mid-range hotel – newbury guest house, best luxury hotel – boston waterfront hotel, how to spend a perfect 3 days in boston, travel tips for visiting boston.

The first step in crafting a 3-day Boston itinerary is figuring out when to visit. Winters here can be brutally cold and unforgiving, which is not exactly ideal for exploring a city.

Of course, the warmer weather of the summer months also brings hordes of tourists and their selfie-sticks. For a nice happy medium, you may want to consider visiting Boston in late spring or early fall.

Whenever you visit Beantown, there’s sure to be a lot going on. In a city with so many major sports teams, art museums, and a lively music scene, you have tons of options for entertainment.

I don’t know about you, but I always check the calendar of events in a city before travelling there. If you’ve only got a few days in Boston, you might want to check and see if there are any games, concerts, or performances you’d like to attend.

Wherever you decide to lay your head during yours Boston itinerary, getting around the city is a breeze. Boston is a very walkable city and it also has excellent public transportation.

You can get most places in Boston on the metro, which is known as “the T” here. There are also local buses and ferries, as well as a commuter rail.

For visitors, your best bet is buying a CharlieTicket 1-day or 7-day pass. The 1-day costs $12.75 and the 7-day runs $22.50, so it’s actually a good deal even though you’re only spending a short time in the city.

Head here to read more about the various options for getting around Boston.

Read Next: Don’t forget to plan to enjoy some of the best Boston day trips !

Finally, the one thing I seriously recommend is investing in a Boston CityPASS , which is basically a card that gives you discounts at many of the main attractions in the city.

You buy the pass for $64, and it gives you entrance into the following Boston attractions:

• New England Aquarium,
• Boston Museum of Science
• Boston Harbor Cruise or
• Harvard Museum of Natural History
• Franklin Park Zoo

If you bought all of these separately, it’d cost $120.65, so you save 45% by buying the Boston CityPASS.

Now that you know a bit more about the city, let’s get this show on the road and take a look at what to do in Boston in 3 days.

Day 1 – Morning

If you want to start your day like a true Bostonian, grab a coffee and a donut from Dunkin’ Donuts and get a move on!

With a nice sugar high and a caffeine buzz, you’re primed and ready to kick off this itinerary.

When it comes to the best things to do in Boston, walking the Freedom Trail definitely tops the list.

This is a 4km-long path through downtown that takes you to 16 different historical sites, many of which played a role in the American Revolution. Follow the footsteps of the founding fathers as you take a walk through American history on the trail.

The best place to start out is Boston Common, which is actually the oldest public park in the country.

You’ll have to save chilling in the park for later, though, as we’ve got a busy Boston itinerary to get to!

Heading north out of the park, you’ll visit several important historical landmarks on the North End.

There’s the Massachusetts State House, King’s Chapel Burial Ground, the Old South Meeting House, and Old State House, among others.

The latter is the site of the Boston Massacre, which served as a catalyst for the Revolutionary War.

Following the Freedom Trail through the North End on your own is quite easy, as it’s well-marked and there are plenty of informative signs along the way.

You don’t have to join a guided tour. If you’re on a budget, you can just make your own tour.

Click here to download the official brochure of the Freedom Trail and then head here to check out an interactive map.

Those who prefer listening to reading can drop down a cool $15 to download a 2-hour audio tour . Just download the app and purchase the tour and you’re ready to rock.

Finally, you can sign up for an official tour and have a knowledgable local guide lead you around town.

READ NEXT: Looking for more history? Be sure to check out our list of the best things to see and do in Philadelphia !

Day 1 – Afternoon

How long you spend on the Freedom Trail is entirely up to you. Most of the sites are free to visit, but a few of them charge an entrance fee (Old State House, Old South Meeting House, and Paul Revere House).

Some people like to linger and read all the information, while others prefer to breeze through and snap a photo or two. Personally, we spent about three hours visiting a bulk of the sites along the way.

After taking in so much history in so little time, you’re probably ready to chill and grab some food. Thankfully there’s a spot on the trail that makes for the perfect lunch break.

READ MORE: Check out our other epic city guide on how to spend 3 days in New York !

With only a few days in Boston, you’ll definitely want to try as much local food as possible. Hopefully, you’re nice and hungry by this point in the day, because there are lots of options at Faneuil Hall on the edge of North End.

This is one of the most historic sites in all of Boston, as it’s where the Sons of Liberty gathered to discuss independence from Great Britain. It’s been an important meeting place and market ever since it was built in 1742.

To learn more about the importance of Faneuil Hall, you can join a free talk in the historic Great Hall. These begin every half an hour between 9:30 and 4:30.

Oh yeah, back to the food! Sorry folks – there’s just so much to cover with only so much time! Inside the hall, you’ll see lots of excellent options in Quincy Market.

When in Boston, one must eat a bowl of chowdah . For those unfamiliar with the Boston accent, I’m talking about clam chowder – a creamy seafood soup that’s a local favorite.

Or splurge and get a classic New England lobster roll!

If you want to be a mega-tourist, add a stop at Cheers. This bar is a replica of the one from the famous TV show and while a bit cheesy, is a fun place to grab a drink.

Before you go, be sure to check out the amazing street performers outside of the hall. From magicians to jugglers to clowns to mimes, there are some incredibly talented people here.

If you’re feeling the history vibe, then you can keep on cruising along the Freedom Trail and cross over the Charles River.

You could easily spend the rest of your afternoon crossing the remaining sites off your list, among them Paul Revere’s House and the USS Constitution.

Both charge an entrance fee ($5 and $10 respectively) so you may want to take that into consideration.

Should you feel a bit tired of reading plaques and looking at statues, just head back to where the day started and spend some more time exploring Boston Common.

Take a walk through the park and cross Charles Street, and you’ll find yourself in the Boston Public Garden. Cruising around the pond on a swan boat in Boston Public Garden is definitely among the top things to do in any Boston itinerary.

Near Boston Public Gardens and Boston Common is Beacon Hill , another gem of the city. Beacon Hill is one of the most beautiful Boston neighborhoods, so if you have time time it’s worth strolling around.

Beacon Hill is a residential area full of picturesque brick buildings, old fashioned apartments, and lots of greenery. Beacon Hill is always charming, but it is especially scenic if you visit in winter when there is snow falling everywhere.

Read Next: Looking for more history on the east coast? Check out our awesome 3 days in Philadelphia itinerary !

Day 1 – Evening

After a very busy start to your Boston itinerary, it’s time to enjoy a bit of leisure time to wrap up day one. And I know just the place to do that!

Once you’re satisfied with your time in the garden, head out to nearby Newbury Street. This popular commercial area is famous for its well-preserved brownstones that house a wide variety of businesses.

Unless you’re looking to drain your wallet, move quickly along the street. You see, the higher end of the street is full of luxury brands, earning it a reputation as one of the most expensive streets in the US.

As you get to the lower numbers, you’ll find some more budget-friendly options. Take your pick from the countless cafes, shops, and bars here before our last stop.

To wind down day one, head to the nearby Skywalk Observatory for the best panoramic views of Boston.

The observatory is located atop the Prudential Centre and it’s the only sky-high vantage point in the city. Try to time your visit around sunset for an absolutely epic view!

Tickets are a bit pricey at $21 for adults, but it’s worth it on a clear day. You can even see into the neighbouring state of New Hampshire on a nice day here.

In addition to the observatory, your ticket also includes admission to the Dreams of Freedom Museum. This museum celebrates the diversity of Boston and the importance of immigrants in shaping the city.

If you’re looking for a nightcap, there are plenty of bars in the area. Otherwise, head home and get some rest to gear up for the remainder of your time in Boston.

Day 2 – Morning

Rise and shine, because we’ve got another big day in Boston! Grab some brekky and coffee, lace up your walking shoes, and let’s go!

Thanks to its location, Boston has a beautiful waterfront with plenty to see and do, particularly on the North End. This makes for the perfect place to spend a relaxing morning in Beantown.

The thing about the Waterfront is that there’s just so much going on here that there’s no way to pack it all into your Boston itinerary. That’s why it’s time to…

While I’m here to help you explore Boston in 3 days, I’m not giving you a concrete Boston itinerary. Travel is all about going with the flow, after all. That’s why it’s time to choose your own adventure at this point in the tour!

Here are just a few of the many things you can do along the Waterfront:

This beautiful green space offers some fantastic views of Boston Harbor on the North End. On a nice day in Boston, there are few places better to be than this!

In addition to enjoying the views, you can also take a walk in the rose garden or head across the street for a ride on the Greenway Carousel.

Another option while you’re over here is the New England Aquarium. It’s a very impressive aquarium, highlighted by their Giant Ocean Tank. This is home to the aquarium’s most famous resident – Myrtle the Sea Turtle.

You can also catch a show at the IMAX theatre or join a whale watching tour here. These tours run between April and November and make for an unforgettable experience.

Click here to buy an entry ticket to the New England Aquarium. Unless you already have a Boston CityPASS, in which case the ticket is included!

HOT TIP: The New England Aquarium is included with your Boston CityPASS!

In the Waterfront area, you have plenty of options for a unique guided tour of Boston. Take your pick between an Old Town Trolley Tour , a Boston Harbor Cruise, or a Duck Tour.

If you’re wondering about that last one, I’m not talking about exploring Boston with a flock of birds.

A “duck” is a special amphibious vehicle that brings you on a tour of Boston before splashing down into the Charles River.

A Duck Tour is a super family friendly way to explore Boston by road and by water.

Alternatively, you can book a Boston Harbor cruise . Boat cruises are always fun, and there is a wide variety of boat tours in Boston to choose from.

Choose between a historical sightseeing cruise , a Boston Harbor Cruise with buffet lunch , or a sunset yacht cruise.

You can also tour Harvard University , one of the country’s most famous schools. The grounds are beautiful and lots of cool history happened at Harvard University, so it’s worth checking out.

Day 2 – Afternoon

Whatever you decide to do on the Waterfront, make sure to include a quick stroll along the scenic Rose Kennedy Greenway.

This is one of the best places for cafes and restaurants in the area, so go ahead and take your pick for a lunch break.

There are several great museums to choose from in Boston, and a few of them are located right over here.

If you’re ready to dive back into the history lesson we started on day one, head to the Boston Tea Party Museum & Ships. Here you get to go aboard a replica ship and actually re-enact the famous event.

The Boston Tea Party is one of the most well-known events in American history so it’s kind of like meeting a celebrity.

Tickets for the museum cost $40 for adults and you can save a few bucks by booking online . This is a rare museum that’s fun for the whole family, so it’s a great choice if travelling with kids.

Speaking of the kiddos, the Boston Children’s Museum is located right next door. It’s an interactive museum and is super fun, even for big kids! Tickets cost $18 and you can book online .

While Ben Franklin may not have ever actually uttered the words “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy,” there’s still a lot of wisdom behind the quote!

It’s been a busy time in Boston so far, so I’d say it’s time for a cheeky brew!

Cruise over to the nearby Seaport District of Boston to find Harpoon Brewery & Beer Hall. They run tours every day and tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Check their website for all the details.

If you just want a drink and don’t need a brewery tour to go along with it, another option is the Fort Point location for Trillium Brewing . These guys make some killer beers and have a solid restaurant as well.

While it’s a bit of a hike from the harbor, Samuel Adams is probably the most famous Boston brewery.

They’re located in the Jamaica Plain part of the city and their last tour starts at 5 PM. Check their website to read about all their tour options.

Day 2 – Evening

How you choose to spend your evening totally depends on what time of year you visit, your interests, and your energy level. After all, it’s already been a huge experience in Boston so far!

With so many options and so many variables, you know what that means. It’s time to choose your own adventure.

As a native Detroiter I hate to admit it, but Boston is one of the best cities for sports. Not just in the US, either, but in the entire world.

I mean, they won the Super Bowl AND the World Series in the same year and were just one game away from adding the Stanley Cup. That’s unreal!

If you’re in Boston between October and May, there’s a good chance either the Celtics (NBA) or Bruins (NHL) have a home game at TD Garden.

Even if they’re away, the bars around the arena are lively. I particularly enjoyed the hilariously named “The Greatest Bar.” Yeah, they’re not too humble around here when it comes to sports and drinking!

While the New England Patriots (NFL) are technically a Boston team, they play pretty far outside of the city centre. If you’re willing to make the trek, most home games are on Sunday afternoons between September and January.

If the Red Sox are in town, you should definitely try to score tickets. After all, baseball is America’s pastime! Plus, the Red Sox play at Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in the country.

Historic Fenway Park has to be on your list of what to see in Boston, even if there’s no game going on.

You can book a 1-hour guided tour of the sports ground here .

Live music lovers will be happy to hear that there are plenty of options for jamming out in Beantown. From a classy night out with the symphony to a wild night of head-banging along to some heavy metal, you can find it here.

To figure out where to go for some tunes in Boston, I recommend checking out this article on the 25 best music venues in the city. I always use Jambase to see what shows are on in a city when I’m travelling there.

Of course, you can always just go out and see where the night takes you. This is a city that likes to party so you’re guaranteed to find something fun. You’ve got to go big at least one night!

Day 3 – Morning

Depending on how your night wound up, it might be a slow start to the final day. Thankfully there’s no shortage of places to get a late and leisurely brunch in this town!

We hit up Zaftigs Delicatessen ( click here for directions) during our Boston itinerary and really enjoyed it. There’s nothing like some eggs benedict and a strong coffee to bring you back to life!

Let’s finish up this itinerary with a bang!

To kick off day three, head to the Fenway-Kenmore part of the city. Here are some of the best museums in town, including the Museum of Fine Arts Boston , which dates back to the 19th century.

You could honestly spend the entire day in here and not even scratch the surface. They have such a vast collection of art from all over the world it’s mind-boggling.

Be sure to have a look at their visitor guide so you can make a gameplan. Tickets cost $25 for adults and you can book online ahead of time to skip the line.

Another one of the best art museums is the nearby Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . This incredible art museum is located in the former home of its namesake, which was built in the style of a 15-century Venetian palace.

Inside, you’ll see three floors full of art, surrounding a lovely courtyard and garden. This has got to be one of the nicest looking museums out there!

At just $15, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is well worth the price of admission to add this one-of-a-kind museum to your itinerary.

Click here to book tickets online.

Another option is the Institute of Contemporary Art . Located on the waterfront, this stunning museum showcases so much interesting contemporary art and often has performances and exhibitions. Visit the website for more info!

HOT TIP: The Museum of Science is included with your Boston CityPASS!

Whichever museum you choose to visit, be sure to drop by the nearby Back Bay Fens on your way out. This tranquil green space is a part of the larger Emerald Necklace chain of parks throughout Boston and Brookline.

This is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll after a jampacked 3 days in Boston. While you’re here, don’t miss the beautiful Kelleher Rose Garden.

In addition, you can visit one of only two remaining “Victory Gardens” in the US that were planted by citizens to help grow food during World War II.

There’s also a temple bell here that was donated by Japan after the war as a symbol of peace.

Day 3 – Afternoon

After a moment of peace and quiet out in nature, it’s time to finish up your Boston itinerary! Next up, we’re headed to one of the most iconic places in the city – Fenway Park.

Since it’s a major sporting venue, there are tons of places to eat and drink around Fenway. Go ahead and take this opportunity to grab some lunch and take a load off before visiting the ballpark.

Dating back to 1912, Fenway is the oldest ballpark in America. It’s home to the city’s beloved Red Sox, and is a must-see when you visit Boston.

As I mentioned earlier, it’s worth it to visit Fenway even if there isn’t a Boston Red Sox game going on. They run tours of the ballpark from 9-5 during the season, even on game days (tours run 10-5 from November to March).

In an age of excessive corporate sponsorship and tacky theme park-esque ballparks, it’s nice to visit one of the originals. I’m a Tigers fan for life but I’ve got to admit that going to Fenway Park is an incredible experience.

On a tour of Fenway, you’ll get to learn all about the unique features of the ballpark, such as its famous “Green Monster.”

You need to book ahead of time if you want to do a tour, and you can do that here .

If there’s not a game going on at Fenway or you’re just not into baseball, let me present an alternative option.

Not too far up the road is the John F. Kennedy National Historic Site, birthplace and childhood home of the 35th US President.

You can normally tour the grounds, but the National Historic Site is actually closed until 2023 for maintenance and renovations. But when they are ready to reopen, it should definitley have a place on your Boston itinerary. Check their website for more information.

If you’d like to learn more about JFK and his legacy, you can also consider adding a trip to his presidential library and museum to your Boston itinerary.

Day 3 – Evening

Congratulations on making it to the end of a busy stay in Boston! I definitely didn’t go easy on you with this one…

If you actually followed this beast of an itinerary, chances are you’re pretty spent by now. It’s your last night in Beantown, though, so power through and head out for one last night.

With so many options in Boston, it’s time once again to…

We’ve already covered sports and live music here, but there are lots of other great options for entertainment in Boston.

One popular option is an escape room. There are a few near Boston Common, including Trapology and Escape the Room . Find the clues and solve some mind-bending puzzles to make your escape in time!

Perhaps you’d rather wind down your time in Boston with some laughs. The city is home to many excellent comedy clubs, including Improv Asylum.

Check out their website to see what’s playing while you’re in town.

If you’d prefer to just have a nice dinner and a few drinks, the area around the Waterfront is full of great restaurants and bars.

South Boston, locally known as “Southie”, also has great nightlife.

And that about does it for how to spend 3 days in Boston!

Boston Travel Guide

Where to stay in boston.

This isn’t the biggest city, but you still want to give some consideration to where you stay. Downtown is the hub of tourist activity and thus has the biggest selection of accommodation.

If you’re planning on spending a lot of your time in Boston in museums and at the ballpark, the Fenway-Kenmore area is a better choice. Those focused on fine dining and shopping should look to the Back Bay area of the city.

Beacon Hill is centrally located, but it’s quite expensive.

In these areas, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation choices.

Boston is home to budget hostels, mid-range hotels, luxury resorts, and everything in between. Here’s a top choice for each category:

When it comes to hostels, you just can’t beat HI Boston. It’s in a great location, just steps away from Boston Common and the start of the Freedom Trail.

Hosteling International is all over the world and they know what backpackers like! They offer free breakfast as well as free walking tours, a nice TV room to chill in, a pool table, and much more.

HI Boston also has laundry facilities and a nice cafe with free WiFi if you need to get a bit of work done or just post pictures from your awesome 3 days in Boston.

Dorm beds here are comfy and each one has a light and outlet. These range from $40-60 a night depending on the number of beds in the room.

This fantastic hotel is located in one of Boston’s most historic neighbourhoods – Back Bay. Here you can see 19th-century townhouses.

They have four different room types, from their standard room to their luxury bay window king room. All rooms include free WiFi and breakfast.

All guests can enjoy their nice common area, where there is a computer and printer along with free tea, coffee, and cookies. Yummy!

If you’re hoping to catch a game at Fenway, this is an excellent choice as the ballpark is just a mile away. Rooms start at $259 a night here.

If you’re looking to live it up, the Boston Waterfront Hotel on the North End is the place for you. This 5-star hotel is located right on the Rowes Wharf and is known for its “classically current” style.

All of the 232 rooms here are beautifully designed with tremendous attention to detail. These range from their Superior Room all the way up to the unreal John Adams Presidential Suite.

There are several options for wining and dining on-site, including the Meritage Restaurant & Wine Bar and Brewer’s Alley. You can also get room service here 24/7!

As if that weren’t enough, they also have a state-of-the-art gym here with a three-lane pool and a spa. You’re really living the good life if you stay here!

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I would love to visit Boston in the summer! This itinerary looks perfect!

This is an excellent itinerary for anyone planning a short trip to Boston! Your suggestions for must-visit sights and activities are well thought out and cover a good range of interests, from history to food to outdoor exploration.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it 🙂

Great 3 days itinerary!Really useful tips about and informative content about boston.Thanks for sharing.

Thanks so much. Glad the article was helpful. 🙂

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14 Reasons Why You Should Visit Boston

Boston has it all, from history to world-class educational institutions and successful sports teams. But if that’s not enough to convince you that Boston is worth visiting, read on for 14 wicked awesome reasons to make sure Beantown is your next bucket list destination.

History here, there, and everywhere.

Boston is one of the most historic cities in the United States. Known as the “Cradle of Modern America,” the birthplace of the American Revolution can still be felt at every cobblestone corner. The Freedom Trail is an excellent way to see 16 historical sites placed all across the city. The location of the Boston Tea Party , the USS Constitution , the Old State House , and the Paul Revere House are just some of the places you’ll visit on this two- to three-hour self-guided or guided tour . History isn’t just a footnote; it’s a way of life. So follow the red brick road and take a step back in time.

Chow down on chowder

Skyline of old-world architecture and cobblestone streets.

Boston is smaller than a lot of major cities, so the beauty of its skyline is really better appreciated up close and in fine detail. Rather than solely gazing upward, the quaintness is most complete from top to bottom and big to small: seeing cobblestone roads beneath rows of trees against rows of brownstones against modern structures. The juxtapositions of old and new are quite striking and visitors are taken aback at the eclectic mix of gothic churches in front of glass skyscrapers. Boston’s maze of winding streets (that almost make no sense on a map) can either be delightful or dizzying depending on your goals, but they’re certainly unique in the US and picturesque. For a stunning 360-degree view of it all, head to the top of the Prudential Tower. There you can choose from either the Skywalk Observatory (accompanied by personal audio tours so you know what you’re looking at) or the Top of the Hub restaurant (accompanied by delicious food, crafted cocktails, and the occasional live music) to take in it. If you love architecture, check out our self-guided architecture walking tour of Boston .

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Boston Marathon finish line

Every year in April, tens of thousands of runners finish the oldest annual marathon in the world, along with numerous wheelchair and hand-cycle racers crossing the bright yellow and blue finish line. The first Boston Marathon was run in 1897 and the best time was just under three hours. These days, winners usually finish a full hour faster, usually somewhere just over two hours. The first woman to ever officially run a marathon was also in Boston. Kathrine Switzer had to fight to be part of the race — almost literally since male officials attempted to grab her and stop her during the run, but her fellow running mates protected her. Runners pound over history on the pavement beneath them, while hundreds of spectators have a giant citywide party along the sidelines. But perhaps what has solidified this event in the hearts of Bostonians is its significance outside of the sporting realm. When bombs went off on April 15, 2013, the city came together like nothing else to support the victims , recover from the tragedy, and continue moving forward with even more profound determination – and so the phrase “Boston Strong” was born.

Fenway Park: Oldest baseball arena in USA

Fenway Park, known as America’s Most Beloved Park, is the oldest ballpark in the US . It has been the home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912. It’s an experience to watch a baseball game here, incomplete without a Fenway Frank and a beer in your hands. Spectators come to see the towering Green Monster, sing along to the famous Neil Diamond’s ‘ Sweet Caroline ’ during the eighth inning of the game, and squint their eyes for long fly balls lost in the Triangle. If there aren’t any games during your trip, visitors can also schedule a tour of the park during downtimes to see and hear all about the history. The Fenway neighborhood surrounding the ballpark is packed full of bars and restaurants and has been growing with new developments, so there’s always something to do during a visit to the area.

The Charles River

Grab a kayak, canoe, paddle board, or rented sailboat and situate yourself on the Charles River for a breathtaking view at any time of day – and especially during sunset. With adorable boathouses dotted along the sides and pedestrian docks situated for casual lounging around, the scene is a picturesque activity in itself. But whether you’re paddling through the river or admiring the view from dry land, this is not something to miss when you’re in Boston. The sights can also be viewed from either the Esplanade or one of the many bridges that cross the water. Whether choosing the Longfellow, Harvard, or Boston University bridge, all of the bridges are easily walkable and provide some of the best views of water, sky, and skylines of both Boston and neighboring Cambridge. The river is a popular destination for collegiate rowing teams practicing at the crack of dawn and hosts the annual Head of the Charles Regatta , where hundreds of spectators crowd along the sidelines to cheer on the race and festivities. If you happen to be in Boston in July, the river is home to one of the most spectacular Independence Day fireworks displays that dazzle in the sky above the water, mirrored on the reflective surface below. Check out our guide to the top things to do in Boston .

Museums suited for all interests

With over 60 museums varying in sizes all across Boston, there is probably an institution fit everyone’s tastes, from history buffs to the politically inclined to sports fanatics. Some of the more well-known institutions include the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) and the Museum of Science . The MFA is the fifth largest museum in the US with an extensive collection and therefore is one of the most respected in the region. The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) is a perfect choice for more modern works housed in a beautiful glass edifice looking out at the harbor. Additionally, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is located in a mansion with gorgeous gardens and is worth a visit for the architecture and horticulture alone, in addition to fantastic works of art. The Gardner Museum also offers discounted tickets if you’re wearing Red Sox memorabilia and free entry if it’s your birthday or free entry for a lifetime if your name is Isabella – just make sure you have your ID to prove it. If you love visiting museums, read our list of the best museums in Boston .

Overwhelming parks and public gardens

Did you know that Boston is home to America’s first public park? The park is now known as the Boston Common , a large grassy area in the center of the city with ball fields and the Frog Pond, which is a skating rink in the winter and a spray pool for children in the summer. It’s directly next to the Boston Public Garden, which is full of flowers, winding paths, and swan boat rides on the peaceful lake. The fleet of dual-pontoon swan boats have been in operation since 1877 and have since become a cultural icon of the city, making for the perfect warm-weather activity. And while in the garden, watch out for the ducklings! Nope, not the duck boat tours that are hard to miss but rather a string of adorable copper duckling statues located in a corner of the park. Bostonians will dress up these little ducklings for the changing of seasons or any important day. Keep a watchful eye or you’ll miss them during your walk.

Even more green spaces and outdoor venues

And the green doesn’t end there – Boston has over seven miles of connected parks throughout the city. From the Commons and Public Garden, the green then continues in a stretch of leafy foliage down Commonwealth Avenue and connects a series of parks throughout Boston. Collectively known as the Emerald Necklace, this chain of green spaces includes the Back Bay Fens, the Riverway, Olmstead Park, Jamaica Pond, the Arnold Arboretum, and Franklin Park. Combined with the Esplanade (that runs along the sides of the Charles River) and the Rose Kennedy Greenway (that goes from Chinatown to the harbor), that’s a lot a green space woven throughout the entire city. There you’ll find yoga classes and running clubs, plots of farm-like community gardens, free outdoor movies on the lawns, and music concerts or events at the Hatch Shell . Altogether, these spaces provide the perfect backdrop for strolling, picnicking, and generally balancing out the urban bustle.

Athens of America

Boston is a collegiate mecca, with over 50 colleges and universities in the city and greater metropolitan area, including the world-renowned Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology . At least a quarter of a million college students from around the world make this city America’s youngest major metropolis. According to the Boston Globe, students make up 20% of the city’s population. Many of the universities offer tours , so don’t be shy about checking out the campuses. And thanks to these world-class institutions, Boston has the greatest concentration of living Nobel laureates.

Ride a WWII vehicle over land and water

How often do you get the chance to be on a vehicle that drives from the city streets straight onto a body of water? The Boston Duck Tours have become an icon in Boston – you can’t walk downtown without seeing at least one. The tours are conducted on half-automobile, half-boat machines replicated from WWII that operate on both land and sea. Unlike typical tour bus rides, it’s quite an experience to view a city from the streets below and then subsequently from the surrounding water. Departing from either the New England Aquarium , the Prudential Center, or the Museum of Science, the 80-minute tours take you to over 30 crucial sites around the city and explain their background and significance. Boston seems to have quite an affinity for ducks; besides decking out the vehicles with images of the same water birds seen all around the public gardens, the so-called conDUCKtour drivers will quack over the intercom for children during their guided narration if requested.

Island Hopping

The now clean Boston Harbor has 34 islands for visitors and locals to venture and escape the city. You can get out to Georges Island or Spectacle Island by taking a ferry from Long Wharf. From these bits of land, you can explore other islands nearby as well. If you have a boat of your own or want to rent one during your trip, then your options are limitless.

World-class arts organizations

Boston is home to one of the best symphony orchestras in the country and one of the world’s best ballet companies. The Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Ballet attract talent from around the world and regularly put on internationally-acclaimed productions and festivals. The ballet team masterfully executes a range of performances, from classics like the Nutcracker and Swan Lake to contemporary dance that pushes boundaries and leaves viewers pondering the power of the abstract. They put on shows regularly, so it’s always worth taking a peak and considering spending an evening in the city’s majestic theater district. The symphony orchestra provides another option to experience a profound night out in Boston. Additionally, every year the Boston Pops score the background to the 4th of July fireworks display from the Hatch Shell to create a truly momentous event for anyone lying on a blanket near the river. So there’s even more reason to come during one of Boston’s prettiest months.

The changing seasons

No city shows the beauty and adapts to the changing seasons better than Boston. This New England metropolis survives the worst of the bitterly cold winters thanks to the best snow-removal system that puts other East Coast cities to shame. But the beauty of Boston shines during the fall and spring months. While most people in the northeast must travel further north in the autumn to peep at leaves , Boston has the luxury of having its own fiery array of red and orange leaves right in the city itself. The spring here is equally explosive, and you’ll swear you’ve never seen so many blossoms at once or giant magnolias whose scent carries on the breeze down the streets through the entire city. With both seasons, there is nothing quite like it.

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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

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

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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Best Things To Do in Boston for First Time Visitors

Boston is such an exciting city to visit, full of history, cultural experiences and stunning architecture. No matter how many times I visit, I always seem to find something new to love about it. Making your way around a new city can be a bit challenging. That’s why I created this awesome Guide to Boston!

If you’re wondering how to best spend your time in Boston…keep on reading!  This Ultimate Guide to Boston will give you insight into the very best places to visit, eat and stay to make your visit to Boston amazing. 

Whether it’s your first time visiting Boston or you want to explore a new area, we have you covered. 

One of the things I find fascinating about Boston is how the historic buildings are intermingled with all the modern day skyscrapers , blending the new with the old. It always brings a feeling of pride at how far we’ve come as a country.

No where else in the United States can you experience such breadth of colonial history and remnants of our country’s beginnings.

Boston is truly a special place with rich history, beautiful parks, and some of America’s best museums.

Get an Overview of the City

When I visit a new city, I love to take one of the bus tours when I first get there. It’s the perfect way to orient yourself and get an idea of what areas you want to explore more.

There are plenty of options for touring around Boston. All of them will take you on a narrated tour around the city and point out all the historic sites but each one is a little different. 

Old Town Trolley Tour

Old Town Trolley Tour is the longest running tour of the city and one of the most popular. With 18 stops along the route, you’ll drive through the most popular areas of the city and hit all the important landmarks and attractions. Hop on and off at any stop along the way or stay on for the full loop (about 90 minutes). What’s great about this tour is the viewing platform on this bus is raised, giving you a great view, and you get unlimited re-boarding all day!  

A day pass is about $50 and includes discount tickets on a Harbor Cruise, Ghosts and Gravestones tour and the Tea Party Museum. You can purchase tickets in the booth near Long Wharf.

Boarding : Pickup in front of Marriott Long Wharf, Aquarium or Boston Common at Park Street.

Boston Duck Boat Tour

When you take a Duck Boat Tour , you’ll tour the city streets and then take a splash into the Charles River . You won’t be able to miss these colorful WWII style amphibious landing vehicles roaming around the city. Each one is uniquely named so ask your “ConDucktor” which one you’re on. You may even get lucky and get a chance to drive one in the water.

A Duck Boat tour runs a continuous 90 minute loop and does not allow you to hop on or off. Before you hit the road be sure to practice your “quacking”.

Boarding : Pickup your Duck Boat at the Museum of Science, the Prudential Center or the New England Aquarium.  

City View 

CityView Trolley Tours is another Hop On/Hop Off option. While this tour has only 9 stops, they are all at the most popular destinations. A CityView Trolley Hop On/Hop Off ticket is valid for one complete loop . There is also an option for a non–stop 60 minute tour.  

Tickets can be purchased online or by phone. Just print your ticket or show your e– ticket on your phone. CityView Tours offers discounted Boston Harbor Sightseeing Cruise with the purchase of any trolley tour. 

Boarding: Pickup your CityView Trolley Tour at Stop#1 at Atlantic Avenue side of the 255 State Street Building. 

Ultimate Guide to Getting Around Boston

Best Areas to Visit in Boston

While Boston is the capital of Massachusetts, the city is relatively small, making it possible to see the city’s highlights in just a few days. The city is made up of different neighborhoods, each with their own unique personality, history, attractions, and vibe.

The city’s most prominent tourist area is around Boston Common , Faneuil Hall and the Waterfront . This is where you will find some of the most popular historic sights and waterfront attractions. That said, there are lots of historic sites, museums and attractions all across the city.  

What are the Most Popular Areas of Boston?

Let’s explore the most popular areas of Boston so you can plan a visit that is best for you.    

• Downtown & Waterfront – Best for History and Sightseeing
• Back Bay – Best for Shopping and Architecture
• Beacon Hill – Best for a Relaxed Upscale Vibe
• North End – Best for Italian Cuisine and Summer Street Festivals
• Charlestown – Best for Maritime and Colonial History
• Seaport District – Best for Modern City Experience
• Fenway – Best for Visiting Fenway Park and Nightlife

Downtown & Waterfront

Best area for History and Sightseeing

Downtown is the heart of Boston’s historic center and one of the most popular areas. The Waterfront area offers stunning views of Boston Harbor and lots of possibilities for getting out on the water. These areas contain the city’s biggest concentration of historic sites and attractions, making it ideal for first time visitors . 

From the Downtown/Waterfront area, you can easily access its surrounding neighborhoods, including North End’s restaurants, Beacon Hill, Back Bay and the newly revitalized Seaport District. 

Things to Do in Boston’s Downtown & Waterfront Area

Faneuil Hall is where you will find cobblestone walkways, historic restaurants, street performers and a bustling marketplace filled with shops and novelty push carts. While Faneuil Hall may be a bit touristy, it is certainly an area first time visitors should explore and experience. Check out Top 10 Must–Do Activities When You Visit Faneuil Hall for the best things to do while you are there. 

Boston Harbor Walk – This 43 mile walkway runs along Boston’s waterfront communities. Look for the signs to pick it up near the Marriott Long Wharf to enjoy some panoramic views. 

Stop by the Boston Harbor Hotel to see the iconic American flag hanging in the atrium. 

Check out the Arctic Harbor seals swimming in front of the New England Aquarium and go inside for a visit if you have time. 

Book a Boston Harbor Cruise tour (Discounted if you take an Old Town Trolley Tour) or another boat tour. There is something that is sure to fit your mood whether it’s a sunset cruise,  an exhilarating ride on Codzilla or a cruise on a historic Schooner . Visit the booths along the Waterfront and the Long Wharf to find out what types of boat rides and cruises are available.

Rose Kennedy Greenway – Walk along this green-space in the center of the road between Faneuil Hall and the waterfront to see fountains, a vintage carousel, food trucks, popup beer and wine gardens and ever–changing public art .

Christopher Columbus Park – Have a picnic at this spacious green-space overlooking Boston Harbor or stroll under the wisteria trellis. 

Holocaust Memorial – Spend a moment at this beautiful and moving memorial dedicated to the Holocaust victims. (Union Street) 

Eateries near Boston’s Downtown & Waterfront Area

There are loads of restaurants around the Downtown & Waterfront areas.  Some popular ones include:

The Chart House – Upscale seafood and steakhouse on the water (60 Long Wharf)

Tia’s – Waterfront dining adjacent to Marriott Long Wharf (200 Atlantic Ave.)

Central Wharf Co. – Located close to the waterfront, this sophisticated restaurant sits in a 200-year old building with exposed brick and serves great seafood and drinks. (160 Milk St.)

Mariel’s – An elegant restaurant with Cuban inspired menu and decor set in the historic Atlantic National Bank. (10 Post Office Sq.)

For more dining ideas around Faneuil Hall, including the historic restaurants nearby check out our Top 10 Must–Do Activities When You Visit Faneuil Hall   

Where to Stay near Boston’s Downtown & Waterfront Area

Staying in the Downtown and Waterfront area will be most convenient to visit all the popular historic attractions.

The historic Omni Parker House is a great choice as it is situated on the Freedom Trail in between the Boston Common and Faneuil Hall.

Other options include:

• The Bostonian (Fanieul Hall area)
• Boston Harbor Hotel (Waterfront)
• Marriott Long Wharf (Waterfront)

Best for Shopping and Architecture

Boston’s Back Bay area is an upscale neighborhood known for its Victorian–era brownstone houses and beautiful architecture .

This bustling area maintains a bit of an urban feel with a sophisticated side and offers upscale shopping, incredible dining options and a vibrant nightlife. 

The Back Bay is located alongside the Charles River, and behind the Boston Public Garden. 

Things to Do in Boston’s Bay Bay Area

Copley Square in Boston’s Back Bay has some of Boston’s best historical places, art and architecture . The square is named after famed American artist John Singleton Copley, who is memorialized with a bronze statue in the square near Boylston Street. This is where you will find Trinity Church , Old South Church and the Boston Public Library .

Boylston Street –  the Boston Marathon Finish line is located on Boylston Street in front of the Old South Church. The Boston Marathon Memorial is a little further down on Boylston Street in front of Marathon Sports near Dartmouth Street. While wandering around Copley Square, don’t miss the Tortoise and the Hare statue , created by artist Nancy Schon, to recognize the many Boston Marathon race participants. 

Boston Public Library (700 Boylston St.) – The Boston Public Library’s McKim Building is an architectural masterpiece and should not be missed. Pop in to see the incredible architecture and paintings inside including the famous Bates Reading Room. The library is Free to visit . Closed on Sundays.

Trinity Church (206 Clarendon St.) – Founded in 1733, Boston’s Trinity Church is a National Historic Landmark. Each year over 70,000 people come to visit the church to see its elaborate exterior and ornate interior with beautiful stained glass windows . While visitors are welcome Thursday–Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, it is an active Episcopal church where parishioners gather daily to worship. Tickets for tours, concerts and music events can be purchased online. In springtime, hundreds of beautiful tulips will be in bloom in Copley Square, which is a site to see.  

Old South Church (645 Boylston St.)  The Old South Church is a magnificent work of Gothic Revival architecture which is open to the public to visit for Free . 

Commonwealth Ave – Wander down Commonwealth Avenue Mall to explore the statues and stately brownstone mansions along the way. This tree–lined green-space begins at the Arlington Street side of the Public Garden and offers a nice relaxing break from the action of Boylston Street.

Shopping – For some high–end luxury shopping, stop by Copley Place or the Prudential Center . Newbury Street is famed for its local boutiques and high–end shopping. On the eastern end, closest to the Public Garden you will find big–name designers like Gucci, Valentino, Chanel, Marc Jacobs, and Ralph Lauren. As you make your way down the street a few blocks, you’ll find more contemporary, affordable brands, including H&M. 

View Boston Observatory at the Prudential – The new observatory at the Prudential just opened in June 2023. Explore the 360 observation deck which offers a breathtaking view of Boston. 

Eateries near the Back Bay

The Oak Long Bar at Fairmont Copley Hotel has a stately atmosphere with dark wood which offers an elegant setting to enjoy drinks, raw bar and live entertainment. (138 St James Ave.)

Eataly – An Italian emporium filled with authentic Italian pasta, cheese, meats and pastries with an onsite restaurant and plenty of to–go options. (Prudential Center 800 Boylston Street)

Fire and Ice – An “all you can eat” experience where you choose the ingredients and it is cooked in front of you. (205 Berkeley Street)  

Sonsie is a very popular American bistro and wine bar on Newbury Street that has been around for over 25 years. (327 Newbury Street)

Where to Stay near Boston’s Back Bay Area

• Lenox Hotel
• Charlesmark Hotel
• Fairmont Copley Plaza
• Courtyard by Marriott Boston Copley Square

Beacon Hill 

Best for a Relaxed Upscale Vibe

The iconic Beacon Hill is Boston’s most prestigious neighborhood . Dating back to the early 19th century, this neighborhood was once home to Boston’s elite, including politicians, intellectuals, and prominent figures. As you wander through the picturesque streets lined with antique gas lamps and Victorian and Federal–style brick row houses , you will be transported to a bygone era. 

Beacon Hill gets its name from the beacon that once stood atop the hill, guiding sailors into Boston Harbor. The neighborhood is located off of Boston Common and borders the Downtown, Back Bay and Financial district. Staying in this area offers a quieter experience with attractions still nearby. Everything about this area emits romance. 

Things to Do in Boston’s Beacon Hill

Charles Street – Take a stroll down this quaint street where you’ll find vintage boutiques, art galleries, eateries and charming antique shops.

Acorn Street –  Stroll down the most photographed street in Boston.  This quaint, cobblestone street is just a few blocks from the Public Gardens off Charles Street. 

Louisburg Square – This historic square, with its gas street lamps and cobblestone streets, is the most affluent section of Beacon Hill. Look for #19 which is the home to former Secretary of State John Kerry and #10, where author Louisa May Alcott lived until her death in 1888. 

Boston Public Garden –  The Boston Public Garden was established in 1837 and is America’s first botanical garden. This Victorian–style garden, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted , is a tranquil green-space and the perfect place to relax.  

• Meander around the sprawling tree-lined walkways and enjoy the beautiful flowers, weeping willows and other interesting trees throughout the park and surrounding the lagoon.
• Take a walk over the Victorian Foot–Bridge .
• Ride the famous Swan Boats around the lagoon (Mid– April through September).
• See the famous George Washington statue (Arlington Street side).
• Don’t miss the Make way for Ducklings statues (Charles Street side). You may even see them dressed up.

Boston Common –  The Boston Common is considered to be the oldest public park in the United States . Originally, it was used for cattle grazing and even held public hangings. Today, the Boston Common is a popular green-space enjoyed year round by visitors and locals alike. 

The Boston Common is also the official start of the Freedom Trail . To learn more about the Boston Common and the Freedom Trail, see my Ultimate Guide to Boston’s Freedom Trail from a Local .

Charles River Esplanade – The Charles River Esplanade is a three–mile, 64–acre park that runs along the Charles River . To get there from the Public Garden you can take David G. Mugar Way (from the corner of Arlington/Beacon Street) and go over the Arthur Fiddler Bridge to the Esplanade. This is a great place to watch the sunset.

Events are held at the Hatch Shell, including the Fourth of July celebration with the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. 

Eateries near Beacon Hill

Cheers Restaurant and Pub is the bar that inspired the hit TV comedy “Cheers”, starring Ted Danson (86 Beacon Street). Today, it is a popular tourist spot which serves up character inspired menu items and sells “Cheers” merchandise. Everybody may not know your name here (like the show), but it will be fun to visit. 

Alibai – Enjoy a cocktail or listen to some music at this trendy cocktail lounge, located in the old Charles Street Jail at the Liberty Hotel (215 Charles St.).

21st Amendment is a pub located next to the State House which serves up traditional pub food (150 Bowdoin St.). This eatery, named after the constitutional amendment, is still popular with politicos, lobbyists, and local media, but it also attracts tourists and Beacon Hill residents.

Carrie Nation Restaurant and Cocktail Club is a 1920 style speakeasy, located a few blocks behind the State House (11 Beacon St.). Dine in the main space or sneak back to the swanky lounge with plush leather seating, dark polished wood and billiards. 

Where to Stay near Beacon Hill

• The Liberty Hotel
• Beacon Hill Hotel
• The Whitney Hotel

Best for Italian Cuisine and Summer Street Festivals

The North End is a maze of narrow streets with some of the city’s oldest buildings and a few famous historic sites. Known as Boston’s “Little Italy” because of its large Italian population, the North End definitely lives up to its reputation.

There are amazing Italian restaurants, cafes and bakeries everywhere you turn and it is a very popular destination for Bostonian’s and visitors alike. 

The North End is an easy walk from Boston’s Waterfront. You can either follow the Freedom Trail markers or pick up Richmond St. at the end of the trellis structure in Christopher Columbus Park near Joe’s Bar and Grille. Just head straight down Richmond St. to Hanover St. which is the main street with the most restaurants.

Things to Do in Boston’s North End

The main draw of the North End is its famous Italian cuisine. This area is definitely a must-experience part of Boston . While you will find amazing cafes, bars, and restaurants throughout the neighborhood, the main concentration of eateries is on Hanover and Salem Streets.  

The Freedom Trail also winds through the North End where you can see the Paul Revere House (Site 12), Old North Church (Site 13) and the Copp’s Burying Ground (Site 14).  

Ultimate Guide to Boston’s Freedom Trail from a Local

Eateries in the North End

There are SO many great restaurants in the North End so you won’t go hungry but they do get very crowded. Making reservations is highly recommended , especially during the high season.

Some of the most historic and popular restaurants include:  

Cantina Italiana is the oldest restaurant in the North End serving classic Italian dishes since 1931.

Mamma Maria is a popular restaurant with rave reviews in the middle of North Square next to the Paul Revere House.

Ristorante Limoncello – Family owned with southern Italian recipes. 

Trattoria il Panino – Boston’s first original Trattoria offering fresh pasta with a late night menu. 

La Famiglia Giorgio’s – Family sized portions of all the classics.

Vinoteca di Monica Ristorante and Pasta Shop – A great selection of traditional favorites and home made pasta. Visit their Pasta Shop next door to get some to bring home. 

After Dinner Delights

Stop in Caffè Vittoria to enjoy a cappuccino, macchiato, latte or signature cocktail after dinner. This is Boston’s first traditional Italian café which opened in 1929.

Save room to treat yourself to a cannoli or other treat at Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry –  either place is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings but be sure to bring CASH and be prepared to wait in line which at times is around the corner – but it goes fast and worth the wait.

Where to Stay near the North End

• Bricco Suites
• Battery Wharf Hotel
• Boston Yacht Haven Inn
• Canopy By Hilton Boston Downtown

Charlestown

Best for Maritime and Colonial History 

Charlestown is a quaint waterfront town with Irish–American roots and a rich maritime history. 

The neighborhood features charming historical buildings and narrow streets that offer a glimpse into Boston’s colonial past. Most visitors come to Charlestown to finish off the last two stops of the Freedom Trail, but this area has much more to explore. 

Charlestown is on the northern side of the city and about a 30 minute walk from the North End. If you’re not up for walking, you can pick up a ferry from Long Wharf at the Waterfront that will bring you over to the Charlestown Navy Yard. 

Things to do in Charlestown

Charlestown Navy Yard: Take a stroll along the waterfront and explore the Charlestown Navy Yard and see the dry docks. Stop to admire the statues and sculpture art that is scattered around the Navy Yard. 

USS Constitution (Freedom Trail site #15) –  Tour “Old Ironsides”, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. Admission is Free. 

USS Cassin Young –  Explore a historic navy destroyer which served in World War II. Admission is Free.  

USS Constitution Museum: Stop in the museum to learn about the history of “Old Ironsides” and the United States Navy through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and engaging displays. 

Bunker Hill Monument (Freedom Trail site #16) –  Head over to Bunker Hill to climb the 294 steps to the top of the iconic Bunker Hill Monument to get panoramic views of Boston. 

Eateries near Charlestown

The Anchor is a fun wine and beer garden next to the Navy Yard. Enjoy free comedy on Sunday nights starting in May. (1 Shipyard Park)

The Warren Tavern is one of the most historic taverns in America. Step into this cozy restaurant for a cold one or for some great chowder or lobster mac & cheese. (2 Pleasant St,)

Pier 6 – An upscale restaurant that offers fresh seafood and other New England favorites with waterfront views. (1 8th St)

Where to Stay near Charlestown

Charlestown is a little off–the–beaten–path from the main sightseeing attractions with limited options for accommodations. 

Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf

Looking for a unique and more affordable place to stay while you’re in Boston? Consider staying on a yacht or houseboat where you get lulled to sleep by the gentle waves and wake up to incredible views of Boston Harbor. Check out Bed and Breakfast Afloat at Constitution Marina and Green Turtle to see if this is for you. 

Seaport District

Best for a Modern City Experience 

Boston’s Seaport district has undergone a huge rejuvenation over the last couple years and has been transformed into a bustling area with a cosmopolitan vibe .

Take a ride down Seaport Boulevard and you will feel the energy with the high rise hotels, restaurants and colorful art sculptures scattered along the roadways. For anyone who has not been to this section of Boston for a few years, you will be amazed at the difference. I know I was!

The Seaport is shiny and new so you won’t get the real feel of historic Boston staying in this area. It is also a little removed from the main sightseeing attractions. If you have time, definitely venture over to experience this new area once you explore the historic areas of Boston. 

Things to do in Boston’s Seaport District

Seaport Boulevard: Stroll along the glitzy Seaport Boulevard to explore the sleek restaurants, bars and colorful public art scattered about. This newly revitalized area evokes a sense of energy with its high rise hotels and countless options for fun.  

  The Lawn on D – Stop by Boston’s “Back Yard” for some outdoor fun with lawn games, illuminated swings, bocce ball and new Pickleball court. (420 D St,)  

The Pavillion – An outdoor amphitheater that hosts live performances and events from May through October. (290 Northern Ave,)

Institute of Contemporary Art – Visit the ICA to see some interesting exhibits. (25 Harbor Shore Drive)

Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum – Step back in time and enjoy a dramatic and interactive reenactment of Boston’s famous Tea Party. (306 Congress St.)

Open Air Market –  If you will be visiting during the holiday season, be sure to visit the SnowPort Holiday Market. This outdoor market is host to over 200 local artisans and vendors where you can pick up some unique gifts. SnowPort was such a success, there is also a Summer Market as well.

Eateries near Boston’s Seaport District

James Hook & Co. – This little shack on the edge of Seaport Boulevard has been serving the freshest lobster and New England favorites since 1925 and is said to have the best lobster roll in town.  (440 Atlantic Ave,) 

Lookout Rooftop and Bar – This Seaport restaurant atop of the Envoy Hotel offers killer panoramic views of the city as well as delicious options for small bites. Head downstairs to The Outlook which offers a full menu. (70 Sleeper St)

Row 34 is a hot spot with exceptional seafood, specializing in locally sourced oysters with its shucking station.   (383 Congress St.)   

Lucky’s Lounge – A speak–easy style underground bar which serves up an assortment of casual eats and comfort food in a lively atmosphere. While there is an address, there is no sign out front. (355 Congress St.)

The Barking Crab – The Barking Crab is a landmark Boston restaurant. This casual waterfront eatery offers fresh, local seafood and is a popular place for boaters to dock and eat. (88 Sleeper St.)

Where to Stay in Boston’s Seaport District

Stay in the Seaport District if you are looking for more of a modern city experience and not planning on exploring many of Boston’s historic sites. There is plenty to do in this area but you will have to travel to get to the main tourist areas.

• Yotel Boston
• The Envoy Hotel
• Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Downtown Seaport
• Seaport Hotel Boston

Fenway– Kenmore Area

Best for Visiting Fenway Park and Nightlife

The Fenway– Kenmore area is home to Fenway Park , the home ballpark for the Red Sox, and the iconic Citgo sign which lights up Kenmore Square. While Fenway Park draws large crowds to this area, it is also where you will find some of the best museums.

With its large concentration of universities and lively restaurants, music venues and nightlife, this urban area of Boston is high energy and has a younger population. 

Things to do in Boston’s Fenway–Kenmore Area

Fenway Park (4 Jersey St,) – Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball and has been home to the Red Sox since 1912.

If the Red Sox are in town and you love baseball, try to get tickets to watch a game at this historic ballpark. You can also take the Fenway Park Tour to get up close and learn all about the history and legendary players. 

Boston Citgo Sign – This iconic landmark that overlooks Kenmore Square can be seen all around the city and has become a treasured beacon in the city since 1940. The sign changed to its current logo in 1965, lighting up the sky with neon lights. In 1983, it almost had its demise, but us Bostonians were outraged and protested. Thankfully, the sign was saved with a long–term commitment to protect it for decades to come. 

The MGM Music Hall is Boston’s newest live music venue in the Fenway area which hosts top pop artists like Bruce Springsteen, Bruno Mars and James Taylor. (2 Lansdowne St.) 

Museum of Fine Arts – The MFA is a world–class museum and one of the largest art museums in the country. The collection encompasses nearly 500,000 works of art, including art from ancient Egyptian to contemporary. It also hosts works by renowned artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt. (465 Huntington Ave.)

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum – This unique museum showcases the personal art collection of Isabella Stewart Gardner with a gorgeous courtyard garden. It is also famous for the 1990 Art Heist where 13 paintings were stolen and never recovered. Today, empty frames still hang as a reminder of the loss of these precious works of art. (25 Evans Way) 

Symphony Hall – Experience world–class performances at Symphony Hall, the home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. (301 Massachusetts Ave) 

Landsdowne Street – One of Boston’s most lively night time destinations where you will find lots of restaurants, clubs, bars and gaming rooms making it popular with the college crowd. 

Back Bay Fens – Stroll through this sprawling green-space which is part of the Emerald Necklace, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. 

Christian Science Center Plaza – This impressive plaza with its reflective pool is the world headquarters of the Christian Science Church. Stop in the Mary Baker Eddy Library to see its world–famous Mapparium , an amazing 3D illuminated perspective of the globe. (Intersection of Massachusetts Ave, Clearway St, Belvidere St, and Huntington Ave.)

Eateries in Fenway–Kenmore Area

Cask ‘n Flagon – A legendary Fenway hangout since 1969 which is usually packed with Sox fans before and after games. (62 Brookline Ave.) 

Bleacher Bar – This upscale sports bar located inside Fenway Park overlooks the outfield. Plan it right and you can enjoy some great food while you get to watch the game for free!  (82A Lansdowne St,)

Loretta’s Last Call –  Get your country fix here with live music, weekly line–dancing, and other fun events. Loretta’s serves up country classics with a late night donut shop until 2:00am. (1 Lansdowne St.)

TimeOut Market –  Not sure what you want to eat? Time Out Market has you covered. This eatery offers selections from around the world including Italian, Mediterranean, Asian, and American influences. (401 Park St.) 

Where to Stay near Fenway–Kenmore Area

Staying in this area is not really recommended for First Time visitors since it is so far away from the heart of the city and historic sites and attractions. If you plan to take in a baseball game or visit one of the museums in the area, make it a day trip.

That said, here are a few suggestions just in case this is the spot for you. For all you Rock n’ Roll music lovers, check out the Verb.  

• The Eliot  
• Residence by Marriott Back Bay/Fenway

Best Time to Visit Boston

Boston is an amazing city to visit no matter what time of year. While Summer is the most popular time, the city awakens with beautiful flowers in the Spring and transforms into vibrant fall colors in the autumn. Winter can be cold and snowy but it can be magical as well with all the holiday glitter.

Bottom Line

A visit to Boston is an absolute must! It is truly amazing to learn about its history and admire the incredible architecture all around the city. As you explore the city, you’ll find each neighborhood is unique and offers a very different experience.

For First Time Visitors, the Downtown Waterfront area is where you will likely want to spend much of your time since that is where the majority of the historic sites are located.

The other must-see areas for a first timer would be Copley Square and the Beacon Hill area, including the tranquil Boston Public Garden and Boston Common . Of course, you will also need to experience at least one authentic Italian dinner in the North End while you are in town. Just be sure to make reservations and bring cash for a famous cannoli.

We can’t wait for you to come visit…Happy travels.

Explore More…

Top 10 Must–Do Activities When You Visit Faneuil Hall

• Watch the Reenactments of the Battles of Lexington and Concord

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How to Travel From Boston to Philadelphia by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is just over 300 miles southwest of Boston, Massachusetts . There are several ways to get from Boston to Philadelphia, including flying and taking the train.

Flying is the fastest option and can be quite affordable, though you will likely want to take an Uber or taxi to get to and from the airport in either city ( public transportation is an option, but navigating airport transit may be daunting for some). Taking the Amtrak is more convenient, while the bus is the most affordable option. Both take you into right into the city center; however, the travel time is a good amount higher.

How you choose to travel from Boston to Philadelphia will depend on your personal preferences and where exactly you are coming from and heading to within each city. For most travel options, booking ahead will allow for cost savings. Here are the details on each to help you weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that best suits your trip.

How to Get from Boston to Philadelphia

• Train: 5-6 hours, one-way from $45
• Bus: 6 hours and 30 minutes, one-way from $11
• Car: 5 hours, 310 miles
• Plane: 1 hour and 40 minutes, one-way from $39

If you're looking for a low-stress way of traveling from Boston to Philadelphia and don't mind spending a bit more time than flying, the train may be your best bet. There are two Amtrak trains that leave from Boston's South Station, one of the city's busiest stations for MBTA trains, buses, and commuter rails. The fastest option is taking the Amtrak Acela, a higher-speed train that takes about five hours; the Northeast Regional train takes close to six hours. Amtrak trains between these cities are quite regular, running almost on the hour. The train will drop you off at 30th Street Station, which is connected to the SEPTA in Philadelphia .

Prices for one-way tickets are estimated to range from $45 to $160—and believe it or not, the faster train can be the less expensive option. Check out both options to ensure you're getting the best price-to-travel-time ratio. Amtrak tickets from Boston to Philadelphia can be purchased in advance on Amtrak.com or in-person at South Station.

There are plenty of affordable options for traveling by bus from Boston to Philadelphia. Of course, opting for the bus means your trip is going to take about six and a half hours, as there are stops along the way and traffic can be unpredictable.

Boston's South Station is a major hub for buses, and you'll find MegaBus , Greyhound , and BoltBus buses that go to 30th Street Station or the Philadelphia Bus Station here. Depending on the bus company you choose, one-way ticket prices tend to range from $11 to $50.

If you're willing to spend quite a few hours on a bus in exchange for low-cost tickets and frequent departures, look into taking the bus. Most buses have Wi-Fi, though you may want to bring a book just in case you're stuck on one that doesn't have a strong signal.

Some travelers prefer the freedom of driving themselves from one destination to another, while others simply need their car at their final destination. The route from Boston to Philadelphia is just over 300 miles and, not factoring in any traffic or stops, takes about five hours to drive. Given the length of this trip, renting a car or driver likely doesn't make sense.

In addition to affordability and flexibility, driving also allows for plenty of room to load up the car, whether it's with family members or luggage. The five-hour drive is doable in one stretch, but if you prefer to break it up, there are several cities along the way to visit. Be sure to plan ahead and ensure you have an affordable place to park once you arrive at your destination. With all that said, if you're the type that prefers to zone out or multi-task during long trips, you may want to opt for an alternate method of transportation.

Most major airlines fly direct from Boston Logan International Airport to Philadelphia International Airport , including JetBlue, American Airlines, and Delta. Nonstop flights take about one hour and 40 minutes and run nearly every hour. Prices will vary by airline, time of year, and when you book, but one-way tickets can cost as low as $39. Starting in May 2020, Frontier Airlines will start offering seasonal daily flights between the two cities at affordable prices.

To get to Logan Airport, you can take an Uber or taxi (which will take around 10 minutes without traffic), or use the MBTA , which has trains that run from downtown right to the airport. The Philadelphia airport is seven miles from downtown; when you arrive, you can use a ride-hailing service or opt to take the SEPTA Airport Line Regional Rail train.

Even when you factor in the time it takes to get to and from the airports and clearing security, flying is the fastest option. If the total travel time based on where you're coming from seems the same as the Amtrak, you may want to explore both options before deciding what works best for you.

What to See in Philadelphia

With Philadelphia being the birthplace of America, there's plenty to do and see in this historic city. You'll want to visit the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall, along with other historical sites and museums like the Betsy Ross House, Rosenbach Museum, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It will come as no surprise that tourists should try a Philly cheesesteak, ideally at Pat's or Geno's in Passyunck Square. For more on activities, the best time of year to visit, where to stay and more, visit our comprehensive guide of Philadelphia .

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• Last Updated On
• August 20, 2023

Is Boston Safe? Here’s What You Need to Know

So, you’ve been wondering, “Is Boston safe?”

Well, I’ve trodden its historic Freedom Trail, gotten lost in the labyrinthine paths of the Boston Public Garden, and sampled the sumptuous seafood at the waterfront, all with an undeniable sense of security.

Boston, with its rich tapestry of culture, education, and history, is often considered one of the safer large cities in the United States.

Of course, as with any urban area, it has its ups and downs.

But let’s remember, safety often depends as much on our own awareness and behavior as it does on our surroundings.

So buckle up as we delve into the nitty-gritty, comparing facts, exploring neighborhoods, and providing you with the inside scoop on just how safe Beantown is.

Stick around because you won’t want to miss these insider tips on navigating Boston safely.

Is Boston Safe: Understanding The City As A Whole

If you’re planning a trip to Boston, it’s important to have a good understanding of the city and its history.

Here are some key things to know about Boston before you go.

Geographical Overview

Boston is the capital city of Massachusetts and is located in the northeastern part of the United States.

The city is situated on the east coast and is surrounded by water on three sides, making it a major port city.

The greater Boston area has a population of about 4.3 million people and is known for its diverse neighborhoods and rich history.

Historical Background

Boston has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 1600s.

The city played a key role in the American Revolution, and many of its historic sites and landmarks are related to this period in history.

For example, you can visit the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long trail that takes you past 16 historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.

Boston is also home to many museums and cultural institutions, such as the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

These institutions provide a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and are a must-visit for anyone interested in art and history.

Safety in Boston

Overall Safety

Boston is generally a safe city, but like any other city, it’s important to take proper safety precautions.

The crime rate in Boston is slightly higher than the national average, but it’s still considered to be a relatively safe city.

According to NeighborhoodScout , your chance of being a victim of violent crime in Boston is 1 in 166, and your chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 54.

Safety for Tourists

If you’re a tourist, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions.

Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.

Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market.

It’s also important to keep your valuables in a secure place, such as a hotel safe.

And if you’re using public transportation, keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

Safety for Students

Boston is home to many colleges and universities, and for students, it’s important to take extra safety precautions.

Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as Fenway Park and Kenmore Square.

It’s also important to keep your dorm room or apartment locked and to have a security system in place.

Crime in Boston

Boston is a vibrant and historic city that attracts millions of visitors every year.

However, like any other major city, Boston has its share of crime.

It is important to understand the crime rates and the types of crimes that occur in Boston to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.

Understanding Crime Rates

According to NeighborhoodScout, Boston has a crime rate of 24.66 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the national average.

However, the crime rate has been declining in recent years.

It is important to note that crime rates vary by neighborhood, and some areas are safer than others.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes, such as murder, rape, and assault, are serious offenses that can cause physical and emotional harm to the victim.

In 2020, Boston had a violent crime rate of 6.02 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average.

Property Crimes

Property crimes, such as theft, burglary, and vandalism, are crimes that involve the theft or destruction of property.

In 2020, Boston had a property crime rate of 18.64 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the national average.

According to the U.S. News, some of the safest neighborhoods in Boston include Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the North End.

However, even in these neighborhoods, it is important to take precautions to stay safe.

It is important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Avoid walking alone at night, and try to stay in well-lit areas.

If you are driving, keep your doors locked and windows rolled up, especially in areas with high crime rates.

In the words of safety expert Gavin de Becker in his book The Gift of Fear: Survival Signals That Protect Us from Violence, “You have the gift of a brilliant internal guardian that stands ready to warn you of hazards and guide you through risky situations.”

Neighborhoods in Boston

Boston is a city with a rich history and diverse neighborhoods.

Each neighborhood has its own unique character, and some are safer than others.

If you’re planning on moving to Boston or just visiting, it’s important to know which neighborhoods are safe and which ones you should avoid.

Some of the safest neighborhoods in Boston include Shannons Town South, Forest Hills Woodbourne Northwest, Jamaica Plain South, Port Norfolk, and Brighton.

These neighborhoods have lower crime rates compared to other areas in the city.

On the other hand, some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Boston include Franklin Field South, Dorchester Center South, Mattapan West, and Jones Hill.

These neighborhoods have higher crime rates, and you should be cautious when walking around at night.

If you’re looking for a trendy area to explore, the North End and Back Bay have a lot of restaurants , shops, and historical sites to visit.

Meanwhile, South Boston is another popular neighborhood with a strong sense of community, especially if you want to be close to the water and enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle.

On the other hand, East Boston is an up-and-coming neighborhood with a lot of new development.

It’s a great option if you’re looking for more affordable housing and want to be close to the airport.

However, it can be noisy due to the planes flying overhead.

Lastly, for a suburban feel, West Roxbury is a good option with a lot of green space and single-family homes.

As someone who has lived in Boston for several years, I can attest to the fact that the city has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and entertainment.

But it’s important to be aware of the different neighborhoods and their safety levels.

I’ve found that by staying informed and taking precautions, I’ve been able to enjoy all that Boston has to offer without feeling unsafe.

Boston Police Department

When it comes to safety in Boston, the Boston Police Department (BPD) plays a crucial role.

As the oldest municipal police department in the United States, the BPD has a long history of serving and protecting the residents of Boston.

The BPD is responsible for law enforcement and investigation within the city of Boston.

With a force of over 2,144 sworn officers, the BPD is one of the largest police departments in the country.

These police officers are responsible for patrolling the streets of Boston, responding to emergency calls, and investigating crimes.

One of their main goals is to create a professional culture and inclusive environment that mirrors the best of all of us.

Through community policing, the BPD aims to be a reflection of the residents they serve.

This means that the BPD works closely with community members to understand their needs and concerns and to build trust between the police and the community.

The BPD also offers a number of programs and initiatives to help keep Boston safe.

For example, the BPD’s Youth Violence Strike Force works to prevent and reduce youth violence in Boston.

The BPD also has a Community Service Office that provides a variety of services to the community, including crime prevention tips and safety presentations.

Transportation Safety in Boston

Whether you’re driving a car or taking public transportation, there are certain precautions you can take to ensure your safety while traveling in the city.

Road Safety

If you’re driving in Boston, be aware that the city has a reputation for aggressive driving and heavy traffic.

It’s important to stay alert and avoid distractions while driving.

Additionally, Boston has a high number of pedestrian and cyclist accidents, so be sure to watch out for them while driving.

One way to ensure road safety in Boston is to use a GPS navigation system.

This will help you navigate the city’s confusing streets and avoid getting lost.

Another option is to use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.

These services are widely available in Boston and can help you avoid the stress of driving in the city.

Public Transportation Safety

Boston has an extensive public transportation system operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).

The MBTA operates a subway system, bus system, and commuter rail system that serves the greater Boston area.

Tourism Safety in Boston

Boston is a city that attracts millions of tourists every year and for good reason.

From the historic Freedom Trail to the iconic Fenway Park, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.

In this section, we’ll cover some general safety tips for tourists and highlight some of the safest spots to visit in Boston.

Safety Tips for Tourists

When visiting Boston, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take steps to protect yourself. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Be aware of pickpockets and keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded areas like museums and downtown.
• Stick to well-lit, busy areas at night and avoid walking alone if possible.
• Use reputable transportation services, such as taxis or ride-sharing apps, rather than hailing a random car on the street.
• Keep a close eye on your credit cards and cash, and avoid carrying large amounts of money with you.
• Be cautious of strangers who approach you and try to engage in conversation or offer you something for free.

Safe Tourism Spots

While there are many great places to visit in Boston, some areas are safer than others. Here are some of the safest spots for tourists:

• The Freedom Trail: This 2.5-mile trail takes you through 16 historic sites in Boston, including the Massachusetts State House and Paul Revere’s House. It’s a popular tourist destination and is generally safe during the day.
• Fenway Park: Home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is a great spot for sports fans. It’s located in a safe area and is well-lit at night.
• Hotels: Boston has many reputable hotels that prioritize the safety of their guests. Look for hotels in well-lit, busy areas like Back Bay or the Waterfront.
• Museums: Boston is home to many world-class museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. These museums are generally safe and well-attended.

Comparing Boston to Other Cities

Safety Comparison

When it comes to safety, Boston is considered to be a relatively safe city.

It’s always a good idea to compare crime rates to other cities in the United States to get a better understanding of how Boston stacks up.

Let’s take a look at some of the crime statistics for Boston and a few other major cities.

As you can see from the table, Boston has a lower violent crime rate than Detroit and Philadelphia, but a higher property crime rate than all three cities.

In the Northeast region of the United States, Boston’s crime rates are generally lower than other major cities in the area.

For example, in 2020, Boston’s violent crime rate was lower than the national rate.

However, it’s still important to take precautions to stay safe, such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding walking alone at night in certain areas.

Overall, while Boston may not be the safest city in America, it’s certainly not the most dangerous either.

By taking common-sense safety measures and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer without worrying too much about crime.

Parting Words

So, is Boston safe to visit?

The answer is not as straightforward as a simple “yes” or “no.”

While it does have a higher crime rate than the national average, it’s important to note that most of the crime is concentrated in certain areas and neighborhoods.

As long as you exercise common sense and take basic safety precautions, you should be able to enjoy all Boston offers without any issues.

If you’re still feeling unsure, consider staying in a hotel or Airbnb in a safer neighborhood, such as Back Bay or Beacon Hill.

These areas tend to be more affluent and have lower crime rates.

Additionally, stick to well-lit areas at night, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be aware of your surroundings.

Remember, Boston is a bustling city with millions of visitors each year.

By staying aware and taking the necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Boston.

Related: Which Part Of Boston Is Good For Families

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some safety tips for staying in boston.

To stay safe in Boston, it is recommended that you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. Keep your valuables out of sight and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Be cautious in crowded areas and be aware of pickpockets. It is also important to keep your phone charged and have emergency contacts saved.

Which Areas In Boston Should I Avoid For Safety Reasons?

While Boston is generally a safe city, there are some areas that are considered less safe than others. These areas include parts of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan. It is best to avoid these areas, especially at night.

How Does Boston’s Crime Rate Compare To Other Major Cities?

Boston’s crime rate is lower than many other major cities in the United States, such as New York and Chicago. However, as with any city, crime can still occur. It is important to remain vigilant and take precautions to stay safe.

What Is The Safest Part Of Boston To Live In?

Boston has several safe neighborhoods, including Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the North End. These areas are generally considered safe and have low crime rates.

Is It Safe To Walk Around Downtown Boston At Night?

Downtown Boston is generally safe at night, but it is important to remain cautious and aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone. It is also recommended that you stay in safe neighborhoods and avoid areas that are known to be less safe.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region.

Emily Alfin Johnson

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine.

On Monday, a solar eclipse will cross from Texas to Maine, putting over 30 million people in the path of totality , with a partial eclipse visible briefly for millions more.

Monday's weather forecast for the path of totality

Totality in the U.S. starts around 1:30 p.m. CT/2:30 ET and continues until 2:30 p.m. CT/3:30 p.m. ET, lasting for a few minutes in each location.

The folks at NASA have a detailed breakdown for anyone in the U.S. Just pop in your ZIP code .

If you're lucky enough to find yourself in the path of totality, you can also find a minute-by-minute breakdown of when totality begins in your area, here.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans?  Check out these  kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides  from Vermont Public's  But Why,  and this great explainer from KERA Kids on  the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse .
• Feeling whimsical?  Here are three ways to  sprinkle a little magic into your eclipse experience .
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view?   Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye  on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.

Watch CBS News

Biden is canceling $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers. Here's who is eligible.

By Aimee Picchi

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 12, 2024 / 3:29 PM EDT / CBS News

The Biden administration on Friday said it's canceling $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers, with the recipients scheduled to receive emails today to alert them to their loan discharges. 

The latest effort extends the debt relief provider under President Joe Biden after the Supreme Court last year blocked  his administration's plan for broad-based student loan forgiveness. With the latest batch of loan cancellations, the White House said it has forgiven about $153 billion in debt for 4.3 million student borrowers. 

Biden, who had made student loan relief a major campaign pledge, is tackling an issue that affects about 43 million Americans with a combined  $1.7 trillion in student debt. It's a burden that some borrowers and their advocates say has harmed their ability to save for a home or achieve financial milestones, an issue that was echoed by Education Secretary Miguel Cardona in a conference call with reporters. 

"I talked to a teacher in New York this week who took out a loan for $30,000," Cardona said Friday, "and after over a decade of paying and being a teacher the debt was $60,000, and she was saying that the interest was so high that the payments that she was making wasn't even touching her principal."

He added, "We are fixing a broken system. We're relentless and taking steps to transform a broken system into one that works people across the country."

Here's what to know about who is eligible for the latest round of forgiveness.

Who qualifies for the student loan forgiveness?

Three groups of people qualify under the latest round of debt relief, the White House said. 

• $3.6 billion for 206,800 borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan.

About $3.6 billion will be forgiven for nearly 207,000 borrowers enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, an income-driven repayment program, or IDR, that the Biden administration created last year. 

The White House said borrowers who are getting their debt discharged under SAVE had taken out smaller loans for their college studies. The plan allows people to receive forgiveness after they made at least 10 years of payments if they originally took out $12,000 or less in loans to pay for college; borrowers with larger loans are eligible after 20 or 25 years of repayment, depending on what types of loans they have. 

 "You sacrifice and you've saved for a decade or more to make your student loan payments, and you originally borrowed $12,000 or less, you're going to see relief," Cardona told reporters. "An overwhelming number of those who qualify for SAVE were eligible for Pell grants and come from low- and middle-income communities."

• $3.5 billion for 65,700 borrowers in income-repayment plans.

These borrowers will receive forgiveness through "administrative adjustments" to repayment plans where loan servicers had made it tougher for some borrowers to qualify for relief.  

"These are people who paid for a long time but were being deprived of relief because of administrative and servicing failures," Cardona said. "These people met the contract of their loan" and will receive forgiveness.

• $300 million for 4,600 borrowers through Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).  

The PSLF program is designed to help public servants like teachers and government employees achieve debt forgiveness after 10 years of repayment. It's a program that started in 2007 but had been plagued with complex rules that effectively hampered people from getting their debt discharged, with only 7,000 receiving loan forgiveness prior to the Biden administration. 

With the latest round of discharges, the Biden administration has forgiven $62.8 billion in loans for 876,000 borrowers through PSLF. 

Are there legal challenges to Biden's debt forgiveness plans?

In two separate lawsuits, Republican attorneys general in 18 states are pushing to have the SAVE plan tossed and to halt any further student debt cancellation. They say the SAVE plan oversteps Biden's authority and makes it harder for states to recruit employees. They also contend the plan undermines a separate cancellation program that encourages careers in public service.

It's unclear what the suits could mean for loans that have already been canceled. A court document filed by Kansas' attorney general says it's "unrealistic to think that any loan forgiveness that occurs during this litigation will ever be clawed back."

—With reporting by the Associated Press.

• Biden Administration
• Student Loan

Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Is it safe to drive during the eclipse? How to stay safe

The eclipse will occur Monday afternoon and roads and highways will be filled with regular Monday traffic.

Is it a good thing to be driving during an eclipse?

Here's some information in case you're stuck in traffic this afternoon.

Eclipse 2024: It's total solar eclipse day 2024! Eclipse time, where to buy glasses & weather in Delaware

Is it safe to drive during the eclipse?

Yes, it's safe to drive, but AAA reminds drivers that there could be more traffic on the road before, during and after the event, so people should use caution.

Katie Bower, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, told the Detroit Free Press driving in an eclipse is not something motorists generally think about.

“Since they are such a rare occurrence, we don’t often think about how an eclipse might impact driving conditions due to the unique challenges it brings to roadway safety,” according to Katie Bower, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning. “As the eclipse unfolds, and visibility decreases, drivers and pedestrians should be extra cautious, patient and alert to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”

How to drive during the Eclipse

According to AAA.com , you should do the following while driving during the eclipse:

• Keep your vehicle’s headlights on.  
• Put the sun visor down to block your view of the sun.  
• Don’t wear eclipse glasses while driving.  
• Don’t try to photograph or video the eclipse while driving.  
• Don’t pull over to the side of the road, highway or interstate to view the eclipse.  
• Exit the roadway and park in a safe area away from traffic to view the eclipse.  
• Be mindful of pedestrians who may be walking around with their eyes on the sky! 

When does the eclipse begin?

Though Delawareans won't be able to see a full eclipse of the sun, the partial eclipse begins at 2:07 p.m. and ends at 4:34 p.m. on Monday, April 8.

The maximum eclipse begins at 3:23 p.m.  

Earthquake shakes U.S. East Coast

An earthquake struck the East Coast of the United States on Friday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, causing buildings to shake and rattling nerves from Maryland to Maine.

The USGS measured the quake as a 4.8 temblor with its epicenter near Lebanon, New Jersey. It struck a little before 10:30 a.m. ET. An aftershock of magnitude-4.0 hit right around 6 p.m. ET.

The morning earthquake was the strongest recorded in the Northeast in more than a decade, according to USGS records .

There were no immediate reports of major destruction or any fatalities. Local and regional officials from cities in the earthquake zone said inspections had been launched to ensure that buildings, bridges and other infrastructure were not damaged.

Follow here for live updates on the earthquake.

James Pittinger, mayor of Lebanon, New Jersey, called the earthquake “the craziest thing I’ve ever experienced.”  In an interview with MSNBC , he said he had not received reports of any significant damage so far, but added that the shaking caused his dog to run for cover and objects to fall off his shelves.

While a 4.8-magnitude temblor is not considered a major earthquake, even minor shaking can cause damage on the East Coast, which does not take similar precautions as other earthquake hot spots around the world.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the quake was felt across the state.

“My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day,” she wrote on X .

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in an afternoon news briefing that no major injuries or impacts to infrastructure were reported, and that people in the city should “go about their normal day.”

Ground stops were temporarily issued at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, according to the Federal Aviation Administration's website. Flight disruptions at the Newark airport continued into the afternoon .

The Port Authority Transit Corp., which operates a rapid transit route between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, suspended service in the aftermath of the quake.

“Crews will inspect the integrity of the line out of an abundance of caution,” PATCO said in an update on X . “Once inspection is complete, service will resume. No timeframe. Updates to follow.”

New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority said that there had been no impact to its service but that teams will be inspecting train lines. New Jersey Transit alerted riders of 20-minute delays due to bridge inspections following the earthquake.

While earthquakes in the northeast U.S. are rare, Buffalo, New York, was struck by a 3.8-magnitude quake in February 2023 — the strongest recorded in the area in 40 years.

A 4.1-magnitude earthquake struck the tri-state area in 2017, centered near Little Creek, Delaware,  according to the U.S. Geological Survey . And before that, a 5.8-magnitude quake  shook central Virginia in 2011,  and was felt across much of the East Coast, forcing hundreds of thousands people to evacuate buildings in New York, Washington and other cities.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said in a post on X that the state has activated its emergency operations center and asked the public not to call 911 unless they are experiencing an emergency.

Frederik J. Simons, a professor of geosciences at Princeton University, told NBC News that the earthquake occurred on a shallow fault system in New Jersey and lasted about 35 seconds.

“The shallower or the closer it is, the more we feel it as humans,” he said.

The quake originated at a depth of less than 3 miles,  according to the USGS . 

Earthquakes on the East Coast can be felt at a great distance and can cause more pronounced shaking in comparison to those on the West Coast because rocks in the region are often older, harder and more dense.  

“These are competent rocks that transmit energy well,” Simons said.

The earthquake ruptured within a fault zone known as the Ramapo system, Simons said. It’s a zone in relatively ancient rock that contains old faults and cracks from ancient tectonic processes. These old faults slowly accumulate stress and occasionally something slips, Simons said.

“There are cracks in it and now and then a little motion accumulates, the stress keeps growing, at very slow rates,” he said. “It’s like an old house creaking and groaning.”

Simons said this was one of the largest earthquakes in New Jersey in recent history. The last notable one was a magnitude-3.1 temblor in Freehold Township in September 2020. 

“I’m on campus at Princeton University for the biggest one I’ve felt in a lifetime,” he said. “This shaking was violent, strong and long.”

Some videos captured the moment of the earthquake, including one from a coffee shop in New Jersey.

The East Coast quake struck two days after a powerful 7.4-magnitude temblor shook the island of Taiwan, killing at least 12 people and injuring more than 1,000 others. The two incidents are not thought to be related, said Dara Goldberg, a USGS geophysicist.

“We’re much too far of a distance for the stress on the fault of Taiwan to affect New York,” she said.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Evan Bush is a science reporter for NBC News. He can be reached at [email protected].