boston travel vlog

What to Do in Boston: 27 Ideas by a Local Travel Blogger

By: Author Lillie Marshall

Posted on Published: April 18, 2019  - Last updated: September 8, 2022

Attractions in My Beloved Massachusetts Capital!

I’ve run Around the World “L” Travel Blog for a decade  now, and have lived in Boston nearly my whole life ( multiple decades!), but it isn’t until THIS article that I am finally, comprehensively answering the question I get so much…

What are the Best Things to Do in Boston, MA? 

So glad you asked! My aim in this compilation is to bring you beyond the cliches  of Boston tourism — beyond Fenway Park, the Freedom Trail , Duck Tours, Faneuil Hall, Cheers, and Mike’s Pastry — fun as all those are.

In this article, I will show you some of  Boston ‘s lesser-discussed attractions — many of them totally FREE — which bring joy. All are easy to walk or take public transport to, which is key, because I do not recommend renting a car or driving in Boston. Now without further ado, I bring you…

Fun Things to Do in Boston

A local Boston travel blogger's advice on what to do in Boston, including free attractions, food, festivals, activities, sightseeing, and fun things to do with kids.

The Best Walking Tour of Boston

My #1 favorite FREE thing to do in Boston with visitors (or myself!) during any season is the walk explained in this article, which spans Copley Square and Back Bay, the Boston Public Garden, and the Esplanade. So beautiful! Lots of tasty places to eat along the way, too. This article also contains tips about visiting the city during winter months.

Boston Public Market: Local Food and Fun!

If you're seeking a delightful culinary and cultural activity, Boston Public Market (located near the Haymarket T station, just north of Downtown) is a large gathering of local food and craft producers. Wander, eat, and smile!

Swan Boats: Boston Public Garden Happiness

If you visit Boston during the warmer months, take a tranquil (and extremely inexpensive) float through the lagoon of the Boston Public Garden on the famed Swan Boats -- in operation since 1877! In the garden, you'll see the romantic bridge where my husband proposed, and the adorable "Make Way for Ducklings statues" (which are strong enough for kids to pose on top of, creating priceless photos).

Boston's North End: Yummy Little Italy

Just a short walk from Downtown, explore the North End: Home of famed Italian restaurants and shops, and goo-gobs of history. Though Mike's Pastry is one of the best known bakeries, this article details eateries that you might like even more...

Central Square, Cambridge: Epic Murals

Across a scenic bridge from Downtown Boston lies the city of Cambridge, best known for Harvard University. Don't overlook nearby Central Square, however: It's got some of the coolest art installations in the country, including Graffiti Alley, which changes every day, and can provide the backdrop for stunning photos!

Do NOT Miss Boston's Copley Library

The Central Branch of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square (a short walk south of Downtown, easily accessible by public transport, too) is among the most stunning buildings in the world, and you can visit for FREE! Don't miss the soaring marble arches in the green-light Reading Room, and if you're with kids, the Children's Room is good for hours of entertainment. Bonus for fun poses with the stone lion sculptures...

Explore the African-American History of Boston

Boston has a powerful Black Heritage Trail, and a long history of African-American contributions and accomplishments. Check out this article's detailed timeline, and follow the trail, yourself, which centers on charming Beacon Hill, right near Downtown.

Visit the MFA and Other Great Boston Museums

The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is a world-class collection of art. Special exhibits rotate (as with the quilt show pictured here), and the permanent works range from Ancient Egypt and Greece to modern day. Boston is also home to numerous other excellent museums, including the Museum of Science, the Children's Museum, the ICA, Harvard's museums, the Gardener, the Aquarium, and more! Check each for special discounts, and also know that locals can sign out free passes to them for you.

Eat and Shop at Bow Market in Union Square, Somerville

Just a short MBTA trip from the center of Boston sits Bow Market in Union Square, Somerville -- a fantastic mix of local small businesses for food, drink, shopping, and activities, all nestled in a gorgeous pentagonal courtyard with outdoor seating.

Kayaking: A Great Way to Tour a River City Like Boston!

I've rented kayaks in Boston four different times -- both with and without kids -- from different launching points in and around Boston, and HIGHLY recommend this activity. You get to admire the beauty of our city from such a different vantage point, and it's both relaxing and active. Note that rental companies are stationed all along the river, so pick the spot that best matches with your touring plans.

The Arnold Arboretum: Emerald Necklace Glory

No discussion of Boston is complete without acknowledging its stunning 7-mile system of parks created by Frederick Law Olmsted: the Emerald Necklace! Wandering this greenspace is one of my favorite things to do in our city. The Arnold Arboretum, featured in this article, is particularly astounding in spring and autumn with its riot of colors.

Franklin Park: Zoo, Golf, and Huge Greenspace

Looking for Boston's zoo? You'll find it in the largest park in the Emerald Necklace: Franklin Park. There is something for everyone in this green oasis, including a golf course, hiking trails, scenic ruins, and rolling green hills. Just be careful not to get lost in its wide expanse!

Jamaica Pond: Boston's Best Place Tourists Don't Know

Right near the Arboretum lies Jamaica Pond -- a perfect spot for a tranquil stroll, or to take in a sunset before eating at the fabulous nearby restaurants. Both "The Arb" and "The Pond" are in the neighborhood of Jamaica Plain: a flavorful area accessible from Downtown by the Orange Line, or several bus routes.

The Lantern Festival and Parade in Jamaica Plain

If you happen to be in Boston in autumn, a wonderful, kid-friendly activity is the two-day Latern Festival around Jamaica Pond. People make their own lanterns from recycled materials, then dress up in Halloween costumes to celebrate with a parade.

A Dog Halloween Costume Contest in Boston?!

You're really in luck if you're in Boston in October and squeal at animal cuteness. Jamaica Plain hosts an annual canine costume competition! Click through to see the hilarious contestants.

See Boston's Skyline on a Harbor Cruise

Let's now move to the ocean! Boston is a seaport city, so exploring the harbor is glorious. You get sparkling skyline views, can check out the Harbor Islands, see planes taking off over the water from Logan Airport, and even pick a themed boat ride for food, dancing, or whale watching.

The Best Ice Cream in Boston?

If you see a cow logo with a pink background, it's likely a branch of J.P. Licks, the famed local ice cream company. I love the unique rotating monthly flavors! December's Gingersnap Molasses was my favorite, but the Brownie Batter flavor (offered year-round) is a perennial winner.

The Marshmallow Fluff Festival in September

Love Fluff? The "What the Fluff" festival in Somerville, MA (an easy MBTA jaunt from Boston proper) is... an experience. I will warn you that this celebration of marshmallow goo has grown exponentially over the years, so be prepared for massive crowds!

City Hall: Good Festival Space and Odd Building

One of the strangest pieces of architecture in our fair town is City Hall: a "brutalist" building with a massive concrete patio. I bring this up because, first, visitors often wonder what that hulk is, and second, there that concrete expanse of a plaza is often put to good use for festivals and concerts, so look up what's on offer when you're in town. (My favorites are the Scooper Bowl Ice Cream Fundraiser and the Donna Summer Roller Disco Party.)

The Most Affordable Hotel in Boston is a Hostel

Boston can be an extremely expensive place for accommodations, so allow me to tip you off to one of the most affordable places to stay right downtown: the New Boston Hostel, run by HIUSA: Hostelling International. They have both shared bunk rooms and private rooms, and plenty of common areas and events to meet fellow travelers and locals alike. The article here shows photos of the hostel, and has my speech when I was the keynote at the building's ribbon-cutting ceremony.

A Tour of Famous Boston TV and Movie Sites

Boston has been home to numerous movie filming sites, including "Good Will Hunting," "The Departed," and "TED." Check out some of these locations on a guided tour, or track them down yourself!

Fascinating Facts About Boston's Big Dig

While we're touring, here's an account of the Context Travel guided expedition around Boston's Big Dig area. The layers of history in this city blow my mind, and the architectural and engineering details impress.

The Paramount Theatre Sign in Boston is Important

While Downtown, you'll likely spot the glamorous Paramount Theatre sign. The back-story about it is epic. Check it out...

A Chocolate Trail in Boston to Make You Drool

Chocolate abounds in Boston! Here is a guide to where to find some of the most luscious cocoa nuggets.

The Most Romantic Architecture in Boston

Reflecting pools and pseudo castles are a feast for the eyes. See where these are in the capital of Massachusetts!

A Hot Dog Eating Contest at a Creative Restaurant

Spike's Junkyard Dogs has ridiculously creative hot dog options -- and a contest for who can eat the most! This article shows ridiculous photos from the field trip I took students on to compete there.

Where in Back Bay to See a Boston Sunset

This article shows several beautiful locations in the European-feeling neighborhood of Back Bay to catch a glorious sunset. To emphasize: My recommended starting point for any Boston trip is Copley Square.

Boston Fitness Classes and Groups

When in a new city, I always like to explore exercise opportunities (both to stay in shape and to meet people). Boston has a number of free workout opportunities, as well as countless gyms for all levels and budgets. This article explains several options.

What’s YOUR Favorite Boston Activity?

I will be adding to this list as I document more Boston shenanigans, so which spots on this list have you tried and recommend, and what should be added that is missing? Do share !   

Day Trips and Short Getaways Near Boston

Enjoyed Boston and ready to explore the surrounding towns and attractions? Click here for a hefty list of  getaways in New England within easy reach from the Massachusetts capital. Have fun!

The author, Lillie Marshall, is a 6-foot-tall National Board Certified Teacher of English, fitness fan, and mother of two who has been a public school educator since 2003. She launched Around the World “L” Travel and Life Blog in 2009, and over 4.2 million readers have now visited this site. Lillie also runs TeachingTraveling.com and DrawingsOf.com. Subscribe to her monthly newsletter, and follow @WorldLillie on social media!

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Thursday 8th of August 2019

Great! list of blog very informative thanks for sharing

Lillie Marshall

Sunday 11th of August 2019

Thanks Steve!

Wednesday 17th of July 2019

What a great post! This article has made me want to do some of them again with my kids...Thanks for sharing!

Thanks, Michael! Enjoy re-living the sites with your kids!

Sunday 19th of May 2019

Wow. This looks like an exhaustive guide to Boston. I never knew so much about it… I loved your photos! I would surely want to explore it. Thanks for sharing :)

Monday 20th of May 2019

Thanks for reading and commenting!

Thursday 2nd of May 2019

Such a nice post! Thanks for sharing!

Monday 6th of May 2019

Thanks, Mary!

Wednesday 1st of May 2019

Okay, you've sold Boston as an amazing destination! Your photos really show off the many activities at their finest. :)

My job here is done! Hehe.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Boston Itinerary: How to Spend Five Days in Boston

One of the most historic cities in the United States , Boston is the city I called home for the first 25 years of my life.

More a collection of towns than a metropolis like New York , Boston is a city steeped in history (it contains a lot of historical firsts for the United States and played a pivotal role in its founding), delicious food, wide-open green spaces, first-rate museums, and warm, welcoming people.

Visiting Boston offers all the benefits of a big metropolis without the intensity and fast pace of New York.

Boston is easy to get around and compact, making it perfect for travelers. The subway will take you wherever you need to go.

So how many days do you need to visit Boston?

Most people visit for three to four days, and I think that’s a perfect amount of time. As someone who’s lived there, I can say that, since Boston is so small, you won’t waste a lot of time “in transit,” so you can pack a lot into your days. Obviously, you can spend longer here (slow travel is the best travel), but for the first-time visitor, three to four days is enough.

Here’s a suggested Boston itinerary that will allow you to see the best of Boston:

Table of Contents

Boston Itinerary: Day 1

Boston itinerary: day 2, boston itinerary: day 3, boston itinerary: day 4, boston itinerary: day 5, other things to see and do in boston.

• Boston Common
• Massachusetts State House
• Park Street Church
• Granary Burying Ground
• King’s Chapel Burying Ground
• Benjamin Franklin statue and the former site of Boston Latin School
• Old Corner Bookstore
• Old South Meeting House
• Old State House
• Site of the Boston Massacre
• Faneuil Hall
• Paul Revere House
• Old North Church
• Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
• USS Constitution
• Bunker Hill Monument

You follow a brick road through the city, and there are signs and historical markers all along the way. Given all the walking that’s involved, I would make this the main activity of the day. You’ll want to take your time and see all the sites thoroughly.

You can also take a guided tour from the visitor’s center. Tours run hourly between 11am and 1pm, with additional tours in the afternoon in the spring and summer. Tickets are $17 USD for adults, $15 USD for students and seniors, and $8 USD for children 6-12 (free for kids under 6).

4 S Market St, +1 617-523-1300, faneuilhallmarketplace.com. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday 12pm-6pm.  

Browse for Books Located a stone’s throw away from the Boston Common, Brattle Book Shop is a family-run used bookstore that dates back to 1825. It’s actually one of the oldest surviving bookstores in the country! It’s home to over 250,000 books, maps, postcards, and other odds and ends. In addition to used books, the store is also home to an impressive collection of first editions and antique books.

9 West Street, +1 617-542-0210, brattlebookshop.com. Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5:30pm.

Walk Around the Back Bay This area used to be an actual bay. Before the Europeans arrived, the indigenous population used the tidal bay to catch fish, as the bay drained completely during low tide. When the land was colonized, a dam was built and the tidal bay was eventually filled in, creating the Back Bay area.

The end of the Public Gardens meets Boston’s Back Bay, our version of New York’s SoHo and West Village. This is where Boston’s elite and wealthy live, and nearby Newbury Street is our Madison Avenue, with lots of expensive shopping and high-end eateries. It’s a beautiful space to stroll around, with pretty brownstones and tree-lined streets. You can still see plenty of old Victorian homes in this neighborhood that date back to the 19th century. ( Here’s a list of other neighborhoods worth checking out as well!

You’ll also find the Boston Public Library here. Opened in 1852, it’s one of the largest municipal libraries in the country, home to over 23 million items, with almost 4 million visitors each year.

206 Clarendon St, +1 617-536-0944, trinitychurchboston.org. The church is open for prayer and tours Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm and Sundays 12:15pm-4:30pm. Tours are $10 USD for adults, though it is free to enter for worship.

Head up to the Prudential Tower Head back toward Copley to see the Prudential Tower, colloquially known as “The Pru.” You can actually go up to the top and get a bird’s-eye view of Boston. There are 52 floors in the building, which was built in the 1960s. These days, it’s the second tallest building in the city (the John Hancock Tower is first).

800 Boylston St, +1 617-859-0648, prudentialcenter.com. Open daily from 10am-8pm (10pm in the summer). Admission is $34.99 USD for adults, with discount available for students, seniors, and children.

47 David G. Mugar Way, +1 617-626-1250, hatchshell.com. See the website for an up-to-date list of events.

1 Science Park, +1 617-723-2500, mos.org. Open Saturday-Thursday 9am-5pm and Fridays 9am-9pm. Admission is $29 USD for adults, with discounts available for seniors and children.  

1 Central Wharf, +1 617-973-5200, neaq.org. Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, weekends 9am-6pm. Admission is $34 USD for adults, with discounts available for kids and seniors.

See the Skinny House When you’re in the North End, visit 44 Hull Street. Known as “the Skinny House” (or the Spite House), this incredibly narrow house has a rather interesting history. Built after the Civil War, it was a passion project of Joseph Euestus, who came home from the war to find that his brother had taken over more than half of the inherited land they were meant to share. Joseph decided to build on the remaining land — which his brother thought was too small to build anything on. Joseph went ahead and built a narrow four-story home on the small slice of land to block his brother’s view.

Visit an Art Gallery or Museum Boston has a lot of great galleries and museums, so depending on your interest, you’ll want to check out some (or all) of the galleries and museums below. It will take more than an afternoon to see them all but you can always spread these visits out over a few days!

• Institute of Contemporary Art : If contemporary art is your cup of tea, this is for you. While it’s not my favorite style of art, I have to admit this place does put on some insightful exhibits. 25 Harbor Shore Drive, +1 617-478-3100, icaboston.org.
• Commonwealth Museum : This museum explores the history of Massachusetts. It’s actually really interesting and entirely underrated (especially if you’re a history nerd like me). 220 Morrissey Blvd, +1 617-727-2816, sec.state.ma.us/arc.
• Harvard Museum of Natural History : This natural history museum has exhibitions showcasing dinosaurs, animals, and minerals (including meteorites). It’s a great choice if you’re traveling with kids, though there is plenty of informative content for adults too! 26 Oxford St +1 617-495-3045, hmnh.harvard.edu.
• Harvard University Art Museums : Harvard actually has three art museums – the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum. They are home to both modern and historical art exhibitions. See what exhibitions are running by checking their website. harvardartmuseums.org
• Museum of Fine Arts : This museum has an impressive collection of over 450,000 pieces of fine art. It also runs all sorts of art classes throughout the year, both multi-week classes as well as single-day workshops. If you’re looking to learn something new or improve your skills, check out the website for more details. 465 Huntington Avenue, +1 617-267-9300, mfa.org.
• Warren Anatomical Museum : Founded in 1847, this macabre museum is filled with Civil War–era medical tools as well as some unique (and perhaps unsettling) medical mysteries. It’s super weird but super neat. A definite must if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path museum! 10 Shattuck St, +1 617-432-6196, countway.harvard.edu/center-history-medicine/warren-anatomical-museum.
• Boston Tea Party and Ships Museum : This interactive museum is home to some historic ships that have been authentically restored to show you what life was like at sea during the Boston Tea Party. It also has a really informative documentary about the events that led up to the Tea Party and the American Revolution. Best of all, you can actually throw fake crates of tea into the river yourself to see what it was like! 306 Congress St, +1 617-338-1773, bostonteapartyship.com.
• Paul Revere House : Built in 1680, this is actually the oldest building in the entire city (it’s been renovated but it’s still the original building). The museum is filled with the family’s furniture and artifacts, giving you a sense of what life was like in Boston before the Revolution. 19 N Square, +1 617-523-2338, paulreverehouse.org.
• Museum of Bad Art : The name says it all! This is a museum filled with terrible art. The MOBA has rotating exhibits throughout the year, so there is always something new and terrible to behold. If you feel like a laugh, definitely check out this quirky gallery! 55 Davis Square, +1 781-444-6757, museumofbadart.org.
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum This museum is home to an amazing art collection of over 20,000 items, including European, Asian, and American art. Opened in 1903, the museum is made up of a wide-ranging collection of paintings, tapestries, decorative arts, and sculptures. It’s one of the best museums in Boston. Don’t miss it. 25 Evans Way, +1 617-566-1401, gardnermuseum.org.

Harvard University, +1 617-495-1000, harvard.edu/on-campus/visit-harvard/tours.

125 Arborway, +1 617-524-1718, arboretum.harvard.edu. Open daily 7am-7pm. Admission is free.

Take the Sam Adams Brewery Tour After four days of sightseeing, you deserve a beer or five. Luckily, this brewery is located near the Arboretum so it’s easy to visit and a great way to end your day. Sam Adams is a major brewer in Boston, and locals drink it widely and frequently. The brewery offers free tours, starting in mid-afternoon and departing every 45 minutes. You get a few free samples along the way. If you’re under 21, don’t worry. You can still go — you just can’t drink.

30 Germania St, +1 617-368-5080, samueladams.com. Tours are available Monday-Thursday and Saturdays 10am-3pm. On Friday, tours are available between 10am and 5:30pm. Their Sam Signature Experience is 45 min long and costs $10 USD.

4 Yawkey Way, +1 877-733-7699, mlb.com/redsox/ballpark. See the website for an up-to-date schedule.

(The Sox not in season? No worries. We have the Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots. No matter the time of year, you’ll be able to find a game to see!)  

Visit the Children’s Museum If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to spend part of your visit. It’s the second oldest children’s museum in the US and has permanent exhibits on health and exercise, construction, space, art, and diversity. It also has a real two-story house from Kyoto, Japan, that teaches kids about life there (it’s actually pretty cool!).

308 Congress Street, +1 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Open Wednesday-Sunday 9am-12pm and 1:30pm-4:30pm. On the first Saturday of the month, the museum opens at 10am. Admission is $20 USD for both adults and kids (free for infants under 12 months).

Charlestown Navy Yard, +1 617-426-1812, ussconstitutionmuseum.org. The ship is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm (with extended hours in the summer); the museum is open 10am-6pm (with extended hours in the summer as well). Admission is free, though the museum has a suggested donation of $10-15 USD.

Visit More Museums – With any extra time, visit more museums! There’s plenty of them to see! Try not to skip the big ones!

725 Commonwealth Avenue, +1 617-353-2630, bu.edu/astronomy/community/open-night-observatory/. Viewings are Wednesday evenings at 7:30pm in the autumn and winter and 8:30pm in the spring and summer. Make sure to get there 10 minutes early as they don’t permit entry once it starts.

See the Mapparium – Located in the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story inverted globe serves as a giant map of the world that you can walk into via a glass bridge. It is constructed of over 600 stained-glass panels and shows the world as it looked in 1935.

200 Massachusetts Avenue, +1 617-450-7000, marybakereddylibrary.org. Open daily 10am-5pm. Admission to the Mapparium is $6 USD for adults, with discounts available for students, children, and seniors.

Head to Castle Island – Castle Island is located in South Boston and is famous for Fort Independence. When the fort was no longer needed for defense, it was actually used as the first state prison. The island covers 22 acres and has excellent beaches, as well as some running trails that are popular with the locals. There’s also an area for picnics and you can visit the old fort for free. The place gets pretty busy on the weekends during the summer, and you can often see school groups exploring the fort during the spring.

Relax at the Lawn on D – This massive green space is new to the city (when I was growing up, there was nothing in this area so you would never go there). There are all sorts of free activities happening year-round, from concerts to festivities and everything in between! There’s public seating, free Wi-Fi, art exhibitions, and a few games, like table tennis and bocce. To see what events are happening during your visit, check the website for details.

420 D St, +1 877-393-3393, signatureboston.com/lawn-on-d. Open Monday-Wednesday & Friday-Saturday from 7am-11pm and Thursday & Sunday from 7am-10:30pm (hours may vary for events). Admission is free.

Hike the Blue Hills – This park is a bit out of the way, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you want to get out and stretch your legs. The 7,000-acre park is home to over 100 miles of trails and offers some picturesque viewpoints. There are also plenty of activities to keep you entertained, such as boating, fishing, skiing, and rock climbing (depending on the season). It can get busy in the summer on the weekends, so just be sure to arrive early.

Tour the Custom House – Built in the 17th century, the Custom House is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. In 1915, a tower was added to the building, making it the tallest building in the city at the time. The building is owned by Marriott Hotels now, though you can still take a free tour (by appointment) to go up to the observation deck on the 26th floor.

3 McKinley Square, +1 617-310-6300, marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosch-marriott-vacation-club-pulse-at-custom-house-boston. Tours are free though they are by appointment only.

Boston is a great city (and I’m not just saying that because I grew up there). I’ve never encountered a person who hasn’t liked it. This Boston itinerary will give you a good overview of the city at a relaxing pace. You’ll be moving around a lot, though, so make sure you get an unlimited “T” pass (subway/train pass). If you have more time, you can squeeze in some other activities .

But why rush such a beautiful place?

Take it slow. Mix and match the itinerary to suit your needs but this is how I’d structure my days if I was visiting Boston!

Book Your Trip to Boston: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For the best hostels, check out this post on the best hostels in the city.

If you want to know the best neighborhoods, here’s my guide to all the best areas in town !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Boston? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Boston for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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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!

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

Sasha and Rachel

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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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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2 Days in Boston: The Ultimate Weekend in Boston Itinerary

We adore Boston, and I love writing detailed travel itineraries–so you’d think this 2 days in Boston itinerary would have been fairly easy to write, right?

As it turns out, a full summer of living in and exploring Boston in-depth with the intention of blogging about it resulted in having more favorite things to do in Boston than can be squeezed into a 2 day Boston itinerary–but lots of research and writing later, I’ve managed to whittle down the best of Boston into a 48 hour Boston itinerary.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

From someone who spent three months living there and fell head-over-heels for the city despite assuming that wouldn’t happen, here is everything we recommend you do–plus all the logistics you need to know–to pull of the perfect 2 days in Boston.

Delicious food, literary interests, American history, pretty neighborhoods, penguins, and more can all be covered with just 2 days in Boston–but fair warning, your feet might be a bit sore at the end!

Table of Contents

Day 1 in Boston Itinerary

Day 2 in boston itinerary, but what about the freedom trail, don’t want to walk consider a duck tour., where to stay in boston, the boston go card: worth the money, more than 2 days in boston, ma, where to eat in boston, getting around boston.

Start your morning in the Boston Public Garden.

The Boston Public Garden is one of our favorite places in the city: quiet and beautiful, it’s a great place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy a bit of peace in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Be sure to check out the Make Way for Ducklings Statue, put in place for the famous children’s book that features Boston, while you’re there! If you’d like to enjoy views of the Boston Public Garden from the water, the swan paddle boats in the garden’s pond are famously inexpensive at $3.00/ride.

Head to Back Bay for brunch & beautiful houses.

Back Bay is one of Boston’s trendiest addresses: here is where you’ll find stunning mansions, high-end shopping, and the occasional burst of surprising quirkiness (like The Fairy Shop, which features oodles of Harry Potter memorabilia and makes my inner eleven-year-old quake with joy).

Commonwealth Avenue

Some of the most fashionable addresses in Boston can be found on Commonwealth Avenue: stretching into Back Bay from its endpoint at the Boston Public Garden, don’t miss the chance to walk down this stunning street and gawk at the beautiful homes.

Boston Public Library

In addition to being exquisitely beautiful, bibliophiles across the USA owe a debt of gratitude to the Boston Public Library for its continuing advances forward: it was the first publicly funded library, the first library to open additional branches, the first to lend books out, and more recently, the first to install free wifi.

In other words, they’re pretty cool (and the reading room is a must-see during 2 days in Boston).

Trinity Church

One of the most beautiful churches in Boston, this 19th-century church sticks out amongst the more modern feel of Back Bay.

Peruse Brattle Bookshop.

As a book lover, I can’t write a 2 days in Boston itinerary without including the epic Brattle Bookshop!

Dating back to the 19th century and specializing in used and rare books, Brattle Bookshop is located just off Boston Common and includes three stories and–my favorite–an outdoor courtyard stuffed to the brim with books.

Even if you don’t make it inside, the courtyard is worth seeing: it boasts hundreds of inexpensive, used books (perfect for a cheap souvenir!) and enormous murals that climb the courtyard walls.

Stroll through Boston Common & enjoy views of the Massachusetts State House.

Boston Common is the heart and soul of Boston: within a few minutes walk you can be in Beacon Hill, Back Bay, at the Massachusetts State House, at the theatre, shopping at Downtown Crossing (this is where you’ll find all the standard chain stores), or exploring a piece of American history.

The park is gorgeous to walk through–be sure to stop by the carousel and to take in the views of the gold-domed Massachusetts State House while you’re there!

Pay a visit to Beacon Hill.

Beacon Hill is my favorite neighborhood to explore in Boston.

This is the Boston you see on postcards: redbrick mansions, black shutters, a cobblestone path or two, tree-lined streets.

It is absolutely stunning to wander through–we recommend walking from Boston Common up to Louisburg Square, which boasts some of the most prestigious addresses in Boston (former Secretary of State John Kerry lives here), and then taking a quick stroll to Acorn Street to take advantage of one of Boston’s most photogenic spots.

Visit Park Street Church & Granary Burying Ground.

After enjoying a bit of time in Beacon Hill, head back down to Boston Common and pay a visit to the Park Street Church and Granary Burying Ground, which are right next door to the Common.

You’ll notice a large monument with a very familiar name in Granary Burying Ground: Benjamin Franklin’s parents are buried here, and a monument to the family is erected toward the center of the cemetery.

Stop by King’s Chapel & Burying Ground.

The King’s Chapel is my favorite church in Boston to go inside–not because it is ornate, but because it is so unique among US churches.

Built originally as an Anglican Church in the 18th century, the church has enclosed “boxes” instead of rows of pews. Originally, prominent families who were members of the church would have a box of their own that they would sit in each Sunday.

The King’s Chapel still has an active congregation–but these days, instead of Anglicans, Unitarians call the chapel home.

Eat the original Boston Creme Pie at Omni Parker House.

Think you need to make a reservation and sit down to a meal to eat the original Boston Creme Pie?

You definitely don’t!

The Omni Parker House has a small shop on the first floor selling the delicious cakes, and we recommend stopping to pick one up.

If you want to also try the original Parker House rolls (which are, in fact, delicious), consider planning a meal–home to one of Boston’s many historic restaurants –at the Omni Parker House as well.

Take a peek at the Old Corner Bookstore.

The former home of Anne Hutchinson has acted as a bookstore, apothecary, home, Boston Globe souvenir shop, diamond store, and now a Chipotle: talk about evolution!

The building is still worth a nod as you go by, though, and also happens to be set right across from the Irish Famine Memorial–a striking statue worth taking a look at during your 2 days in Boston.

Pay a visit to the Old State House & the site of the Boston Massacre.

As you wander your way through Boston on your way to the Old State House, be sure to note the Old South Meeting House along the way!

The Old State House and the site of the Boston Massacre that is right out front is the perfect final sightseeing stop on your first day in Boston.

As the oldest surviving public building in Boston, the Old State House has seen more than its fair share of American history: it was once the seat of the colonial government, then became the seat of the Massachusetts state government and eventually Boston City Hall.

The Old State House has been a museum since the 19th century, after more than 100 years in public service and a brief stint as a commercial building.

Begin in the Marketplace District.

Boston’s marketplace district is all about the food, so come hungry (just ignore the hideous city hall that’s across the street).

Boston Public Market

Looking for some New England specialties, whether to devour immediately or to take home?

Boston Public Market is the perfect spot for that: featuring exclusively New England-based products and companies, you can pick up anything from produce to donuts to crafts here.

This is one of my favorite spots in Boston–and not just because of how good the ice cream is!

If you’re lucky enough to have your 2 days in Boston overlap with a Friday or Saturday, be sure to swing by Haymarket (located right in front of the Boston Public Market) to check out a fabulous farmer’s market!

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Made up of closely located Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market, this is the heart of Boston’s historic market district–and also one of the most touristy places in the USA.

While we definitely feel it’s worth stopping by during your 2 days in Boston to appreciate the markets and the history behind them (Faneuil Hall dates back to the 18th century), unless crowds, chain stores, and overpriced food are your thing, you won’t need to stick around long.

Stop by the New England Holocaust Memorial.

Right in between the Boston Public Market/Haymarket area and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace sits the sobering New England Holocaust Memorial.

It takes very little time to walk through–no line, no entrance fee–but is absolutely worth taking a moment to slow down and appreciate.

Head into the North End.

Boston’s North End (also known as “Little Italy”, though you won’t catch a local calling it that) is the oldest neighborhood in Boston and a fascinating sort of place: once a neighborhood popular with Italian immigrants, today it is more popular with tourists.

It’s home to tons of Italian food (from the very good to the very bad), beautiful architecture, several noteworthy spots in American history, and a couple of very famous pastry shops.

Paul Revere House

The oldest remaining building in downtown Boston once belonged to none other than Paul Revere!

Whether you head inside for a tour or simply admire the facade as you walk by during your 2 days in Boston, be sure to note this piece of American history sitting in the North End.

Old North Church

And speaking of Paul Revere…

The whole “one if by land, two if by sea” story? That lantern was said to have been hung here, at the Old North Church.

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground & Spite House

Boston’s second-oldest cemetery holds more than 1200 marked graves that include plenty of notable burials from the colonial era… but that’s not the only reason to visit.

Right across from Copp’s Hill Burying Ground sits the Spite House (also known as the Skinny House), which is home to one of my favorite Boston stories.

As the story goes, two brothers inherited land from their father. While one was away serving in the American Civil War, the other brother built a large home, taking over part of the soldier’s inheritance.

When the soldier returned home, he built the “Spite House”–incredibly skinny, and yet incredibly effective at blocking his brother’s view.

The legitimacy of the story is somewhat questionable, but it sure is a classic Boston tale.

Mike’s Pastry & Modern Pastry

If you’ve heard one thing about eating cannoli in the North End, it’s probably about how delicious Mike’s Pastry is.

If you’ve heard two things, it’s probably that Modern Pastry is better and more “unknown”.

Here’s what we can tell you firsthand: Modern Pastry is tasty, and the line at Mike’s Pastry was always too long for us to bother with (though we’ve heard from others it dies down sometimes–if you visit in the offseason, you might get lucky!).

Regardless of where you choose to get one, we do certainly recommend eating a cannoli or two during your 2 days in Boston.

Pay a visit to the penguins at the New England Aquarium.

The New England Aquarium is one of the best aquariums we have ever been to there’s a huge emphasis on conservation, the exhibits are striking and education-focused, and the aquarium’s location on the harbor means that it is even able to use the natural seawater for some of its exhibits!

Though the five-story ocean tank, complete with an ancient sea turtle named Myrtle, is incredible, the real showstopper for us is the penguins.

We adore penguins, and the New England Aquarium is home to several species.

If you want to see something truly adorable, visit the aquarium at 9:00am or 2:30pm–aka penguin feeding time.

Want to avoid waiting? Purchase a  skip-the-line aquarium ticket  before you get there!

Take a stroll along the Harborwalk.

At around 43 miles long, you definitely won’t see even a quarter of the Harborwalk with only 2 days in Boston–but this continuous trail along Boston’s coastline is definitely worth checking out for a little bit.

Luckily, the New England Aquarium is located right on it, making it easy to go for a walk before or after your visit.

Enjoy the sunset from the water with a harbor cruise.

The perfect end to a 2 day Boston trip isn’t in Boston at all–it’s in the water, staring back at the city that boasts one of my favorite skylines in the world.

We recommend taking a harbor cruise around sunset to enjoy the end of the day–cruises are available at literally all price points, from a basic group cruise in a shared boat to a private sailing experience complete with dinner and wine.

For a less expensive harbor cruise,  this sunset cruise  is a great option!

If you know one thing about Boston, it’s probably the Freedom Trail: the famous 2.5-mile trail covers 16 historical sights related to American history in Boston, and is easily one of the most popular things to do in the city.

So don’t worry–it’s definitely on the list!

In fact, 14 of the 16 sights on the Freedom Trail are covered in this 2 days in Boston itinerary, including Boston Common, Park Street Church, King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall, every historical sight I discuss in the North End, and more.

If you follow this Boston itinerary on your weekend in Boston, you’ll spend quite a bit of time walking the Freedom Trail, and you’ll have tons of opportunities to check out the brick markings that denote where it leads!

Rather than simply list something so vague and malleable on our 2 days in Boston itinerary, though, we wanted to be sure to give specific suggestions–after all, the trail can be seen in any order and doesn’t need to be done all at once.

Cheesy? Yes.

Entertaining? Absolutely.

Boston’s Duck Tours are famous for the unmistakable truck-slash-boat contraptions that they cart tourists around in by both land and sea. Corniness aside, if you’re looking for an excellent way to get an overview of Boston’s most famous sights and history without too much walking a Duck Tour might be the right choice for you!

The tours do sell out, especially in the summer, so be sure to book in advance if you want to make a Duck Tour part of your 2 days in Boston itinerary!

Book your Boston Duck Tour today!

With only 2 days in Boston, we recommend staying somewhere close to a metro that is near the center of the action.

The North End is a tempting option, but it is fairly difficult to get in and out of. We’d recommend staying somewhere in Back Bay or the Historic Downtown if possible. The Theatre District (near Downtown Crossing and Chinatown) is another solid option with a great central location.

If budget is an issue, you may need to go a bit further out. That’s not a problem–just make sure you’re within walking distance of a metro stop!

Here are a few budget-to-midrange (Boston is expensive, there’s no getting around it) hotels that we would consider if we were staying in Boston today:

• The Copley House – Back Bay
• Boston Park Plaza – Theater District

If you’re on a strict budget and are open to a hostel, Boston does have a few to choose from.

This one tends to be rated highly:

• HI Boston Hostel – Theater District/Chinatown

The Boston Go Card is promoted as an all-access pass, allowing you to buy several Boston attractions at once.

With this 2 days in Boston itinerary, you won’t need it: the 2-day pass won’t allow you to break even or get ahead with the attractions listed here.

However, if you’re staying in Boston longer, or you are interested in participating in a Hop On/Hop Off bus tour, completing a Fenway Park tour, visiting the Skywalk Observatory, or visiting several museums, then the Boston Go Card is probably the right option for you.

Find out more about the Boston Go Card and see if it’s right for you!

Boston is full of things to do: even after 3 months in the city, we still left with a to-do list longer than we would have liked.

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 2 days in Boston, consider visiting Revere Beach (it’s the oldest public beach in the USA!), touring the Samuel Adams Brewery, attending a Boston Red Sox game (or just touring Fenway Park, the oldest baseball stadium in the USA), taking a walk along the Charles River Esplanade, or heading out a bit farther along the Freedom Trail to take in the two remaining sights not covered on this itinerary, the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Memorial.

If you’re a museum fan, Boston has enough to keep you occupied for months: for example, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is built in the form of a Venetian palace, holds gorgeous artwork, and is the victim of a heist .

For science lovers, the home of MIT and Harvard has you covered: the Boston Science Museum and MIT Museum are both worthy of a visit.

With time to plan in advance, consider going stargazing at the Coit Observatory.

If you’re visiting in the summer, a visit to the Harbor Islands is always a good idea for nature lovers.

I could keep going forever, but suffice it to say: you can do a lot with only 2 days in Boston, but you can’t do it all!

We are far from experts on Boston cuisine (in fact, we tried to cook at home as much as we could convince ourselves to during our 3 months there), but we did end up having some truly stellar meals while in Boston.

Here are a few of the places we enjoyed–consider adding a couple to your 2 days in Boston itinerary!

Buttermilk & Bourbon — Commonwealth Avenue (Back Bay)

I love biscuits.

More than that, I love southern biscuits, and I’ve been eating them all my life, in North Carolina and beyond.

So when I say that Buttermilk & Bourbon serves southern-style biscuits so delicious that I still think of them fondly a year later, I really mean it.

All of the food we had was incredible, and we can’t recommend their brunch enough (and I assume lunch and dinner are fabulous as well).

[instagram url=https://www.instagram.com/p/BX-XsBYBY5J/?taken-by=ourescapeclause]

Neptune Oyster — Salem Street #1 (North End)

I’m not a huge oyster fan, but Jeremy sure enjoyed these (and the lobster roll he happily consumed after downing the oysters).

A friend of ours took us here when she came to visit us in Boston, touting it as one of her favorite restaurants–and judging by the fact that she looked to be having almost a religious experience the entire time she was eating their oysters, it’s a well-earned spot on her list.

As the resident non-oyster eater, I can attest that their burger was delicious.

Ristorante Euno — Salem Street (North End)

Many Italian restaurants in the North End are duds.

Ristorante Euno is not one of them–in fact, this is the only restaurant in the USA we have eaten in that even begins to approximate having dinner in Italy.

We ate here with a big group and had the opportunity to taste everything from several kinds of pasta to veal to steak to we-stopped-counting-at-some-point amounts of wine, and it was all delicious.

Tatte Bakery and Cafe — Charles Street (Beacon Hill)

Tatte Bakery & Cafe has several locations around Boston, but the Beacon Hill location is easy to reach as part of your 2 days in Boston itinerary!

Home to delicious sweets, tasty sandwiches (I had a brie and prosciutto sandwich that was incredible), and pastries that look too beautiful to eat, Tatte Bakery is a great place for a snack or quick lunch while you’re running around trying to see Boston in 2 days.

Bell in Hand Tavern — Union Street (Marketplace District)

America’s oldest tavern has been pouring ale since 1795, so you’d assume that puts them at risk of being gimmicky with mediocre food, but nope!

We never had a bad dish at Bell in Hand Tavern, and their burgers are incredible.

If you’re hungry while in the marketplace district, this is the stop for you!

Pomodoro — Hanover Street (Brookline Village)

This one is located out in our old stomping grounds of Brookline Village–and quite honestly, with only 2 days in Boston, I doubt you’ll make it out there.

If you’re staying longer, though, I can’t recommend a wander through Brookline Village enough (it’s adorable!), and would definitely suggest adding in a stop at Pomodoro while you’re there.

We had one of our best meals of the summer at Pomodoro, and I would love to visit again and soak up all their delicious Italian food and wine.

There is a catch: they only take cash, so come prepared or be ready to march to the ATM down the street once you finish eating (we may or may have had to do this).

Union Oyster House — Union Street (Marketplace District)

Right across the street from America’s oldest tavern sits America’s oldest restaurant, which has been serving up seafood (and especially New England chowder) since 1826.

We didn’t eat here personally, and reviews are mixed–some say the food is excellent, some say it is just okay. Most agree that you’re paying a bit more to eat at a historical location, which is not surprising.

Regardless of the ups and downs, though, I couldn’t bear to leave it off–even if you just snap a photo of the exterior as you walk by on the Freedom Trail, it’s worth being aware of this landmark during your 2 days in Boston.

[instagram url=https://www.instagram.com/p/BXacBR1hALQ/?taken-by=ourescapeclause]

Parker’s Restaurant at Omni Parker House — School Street (Historic Downtown)

I’ll admit: the main dishes here were good-not-great for the prices they charge… but gorging ourselves on the original (and delicious) Parker House Rolls and Boston Creme Pie made us glad we experienced the food once.

If you want to try out Parker’s House, we recommend going for lunch or brunch to keep costs down a bit.

Dunkin’ Donuts — Literally Everywhere

Okay, this is (mostly) on here as a joke–but okay donuts and subpar coffee aside, there’s no denying that Dunkin’ Donuts is a true Boston experience.

Boston is consistently rated as one of the most walkable cities in the USA and is also home to one of the densest public transportation networks in the country.

During our 3 months in Boston, we relied exclusively on the subway, the occasional bus, and our feet to get around the city, and we recommend you do the same during your 2 days in Boston.

There are two ways to buy tickets to the metro system: with a CharlieCard (which is free and reloadable), and individually.

The CharlieCards can be picked up from any attendant in the subway stations, but they aren’t always available.

It’s an extra $0.50/ride to purchase a ticket without a CharlieCard, and with only 2 days in Boston, I wouldn’t worry too much about getting one.

Bonus piece of history: if you ride the Green Line of Boston’s metro system, specifically between Park Street and Boylston, you’ll be riding on one of the oldest metros in the world (and arguably the oldest one in the USA).

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

31 thoughts on “2 Days in Boston: The Ultimate Weekend in Boston Itinerary”

I’ve never been to Boston before but I would love to see Beacon Hill in person. It looks beautiful from the photos in your post. I also have a slight obsession with Boston Creme Pies so that’s a must try as well lol

Haha, yes, it definitely is! There are SO MANY amazing Boston Creme Pies in Boston… including in Beacon Hill! 😉

Thank you so much for the time you spent in Boston so I could so easily enjoy the city on a quick stop. Your writing is engaging and your personal insights and recommendations so valuable. I have saved your site for future trips.

Thanks so much, Connie! We appreciate you reading. 🙂

Hi! Great Itinerary! I’m heading to Boston this Friday for a week and I’m super excited to check out these places 🙂

Thanks so much, Evelyn!

Hope you have an amazing time during your trip to Boston! 🙂

loved your page with all its information. I have a question : we are going to be staying at the North End soon at Battery Wharf , what is the fastest way to Salem ? I have heard there is a train from the North End straight to Salem. But I am really confused. Can you tell me your opinion ? I have copied your page and will use it for my trip. Thanks

Hi Kathy! Thanks for reading. 🙂

Yes, a train runs from North Station (which is essentially right next door to the North End, it’s a quick walk away) directly to Salem. It’s a commuter rail, so very dependable and easy to use. We visited Salem that way personally and had no issues–it takes a little over half an hour to get there if I remember correctly.

Brilliantly written. Unfortunately not many of the pique my interest. Definitely worth the read and also learn a few things. Love it!

Thank you for this 2-day itinerary! We are looking forward to our time in Boston, and this will help us make the most of our short time there.

So glad we could help, Regina! Have a great time in Boston. 🙂

Hi! Thanks for the info. Invaluable! Question. Can this be done easily on bikes or at least the harbor walk? Do you think we could fit in a Sam Adams tour in? What would you cut out?

So glad you found it helpful, Milissa! Yes, the Harborwalk is also a bike path, you can definitely ride there.

You can definitely rearrange things to fit a Sam Adams tour in! As for what to cut, it’s completely up to what you guys most prefer–I adored the penguins, for example, but some people wouldn’t care about the aquarium at all.

Some of the sites, such as Faneuil Hall or the Boston Common, can take anywhere from a few minutes to get a quick look at to an hour or more of perusing it in detail, so there’s a lot of flexibility with timing built in depending on your tastes.

Beacon hill is a tough pedal up, otherwise biking is fairly easy, although bike lanes are inconsistent.

I’d personally prioritize the uss constitution. It’s a free tour and think they are going below decks again as they weren’t for a while during covid.

Sam Adams is a good tour, but I might recommend harpoon instead. It’s closer, is almost as old, and is still local.

Hi, My husband & I will be in Boston in October for two days and I love this itinerary! Great job! So we’ll written! Thank you for sharing! One question… we will have a rental car and driving from Freeport, Maine. What is the best place to stay, B&B preferably, so that we can just walk from our B&B to all of these sites… and just leave our car at our B&B. Is that possible? We plan on driving to Plymouth and onto Rhode Island and then Connecticut after our time in Boston. Thank you for your help and suggestions, Pam

Thanks so much, Pam!

I’m not familiar with any BNBs off the top of my head that would meet both of those needs–generally, if you’re staying close enough into town to be within walking distance of the sights, small BNBs will have limited or no parking available.

I’d recommend plugging your requirements into your preferred hotel booking site (we use Booking dot com), including parking as a requirement, and seeing if anything pops up in a central neighborhood.

That being said, you can also park (paid, but convenient) in the garage under the Boston Common, which is very convenient for sightseeing!

Great post! Just what I was looking for. Real advice from a real person. Thanks for all of the great tips and restaurant suggestions.

Thanks so much, Andrea! Hope you guys love Boston as much as we do!

I love your post. Me and my husband will use your itinerary this weekend. Please give us suggestions of the hotels we can stay. We will be driving from Hanover NH and plan to park the car in the hotel, and we will just walk to all the places you mentioned for 2 days. Please let me know of your hotel suggestions. Thank you so much for your help.

Hi Susan! We have a few hotel recommendations in the post, after the itinerary section.:-)

Great review of my beloved city!!! But… I’m not sure how you could focus on Back Bay and not mention Newbury Street–filled with some of Boston’s best shopping and restaurants. Also, since I am a local, we would never refer to the T (formally known as the MBTA) as a metro. Honestly, if you said “metro” to any Bostonian, we wouldn’t know what you were talking about. Lol. Thank you for appreciating all the beauty Boston has to offer!!

Thanks so much, Patty! I hadn’t realized we didn’t mention Newbury Street in this post–it’s in our things to do in Boston post, though. 🙂 Beautiful street, I love it there!

Great 2 days itinerary!Really useful tips and informative content about boston.Thanks for sharing.

Hi Kate – loved the write up! We came to Boston in 2010 and fell in love with the town – and hence, have stayed on. If you ever edit the article – do please consider adding two great experiences: (1) that the Boston Library has one of the finest “afternoon tea” experiences in the world but has to be booked 4+ months in advance and 2) the nearby towns of Lexington (I live here) and Concord still have a ton of historical sites and ceremonies connected to the first revolutionary war… and are just 20-25 Min away at most from Boston Backbay.

I’ve had the Boston Library tea on my bucket list for years! One of my friends got to do it and raved about it. 🙂 Maybe next time!

This article and guide has been fabulous. My cousin and I are planning our first trip to Boston. It will be short, two and half days, prior to boarding a cruise ship. I cannot thank you enough for making it easy to map out, for the recommendations of places to eat and stay and for the history and photos. We want to make sure and hit all the highlights and to see the real Boston. This covers it all. Over the top great and I am so very thankful!!!

It makes my day to hear that, Sharon! Hope you and your cousin have a fantastic couple of days in Boston! 🙂

Thank you for this post! My husband and I will be first-timers in Boston in October (14-18), and I was wondering if there are any fall specific activities/sights you’d recommend?

The main thing will simply be to appreciate the foliage, which you should definitely see! I’d plan to spend extra time in the parks, burying grounds, etc, as they’ll all be decked out in color.

If you have a chance to take a day trip outside of Boston, apple-picking (and apple-cider-donut eating) is a classic fall activity with plenty of options close to Boston. 🙂

Salem is ridiculously crowded in October, of course, but it’s also an easy day trip from Boston, and arguably there’s no better time to visit than October! The whole town goes all-in on spooky season.

Thanks so much for this information! We will be traveling with my parents, and will have a couple of days in Boston. Mom gets around fine, but occasionally has trouble with her knees. Would you recommend a hop on/hop off bus or the duck tour instead of walking? I’m wondering about steep hills, and stairs – things of that nature. I am just asking for a general idea – I realize you have no way to assess someone’s abilities, lol! Your blog post will be a great help!

So glad you’ve found it helpful!

Much of the route is fairly flat, but Beacon Hill in particular has very steep sections–I’d be on the lookout for that.

A hop on/hop off tour might be a great compromise between going alone versus a fully scheduled option like a duck tour, as you can walk as much as makes sense but also always have another stop fairly close by. That way, you don’t have to commit to an enormous amount of walking at one time if energy starts to wane.

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15 best things to do in boston – a comprehensive travel guide, poor little it girl™ partners with several affiliate programs, meaning that i can earn a commission from purchases/clicks by those who visit this site at no additional cost to you.

Planning a trip to Boston? Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a nature lover, this travel recap has got you covered. Jessica and I recently visited Boston, and we had an incredible time exploring this historic city. Thanks to JetBlue , who recently launched a route from Atlanta to Boston, we were able to fly in comfort and style.

Boston is a city that beckons travelers to create lasting memories, and there’s no better way to experience it than with a dear friend by your side. As you traverse the charming cobblestone streets and stroll through historical landmarks, the shared sense of wonder and excitement deepens the bond between friends.

The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine provide a captivating backdrop for unforgettable adventures. From duck boat tours to exploring the Freedom Trail together, Boston offers a plethora of activities that cater to diverse interests, ensuring both you and your friend have an exhilarating and enjoyable experience.

If you’re seeking a destination that seamlessly blends the old with the new, Boston deserves a prime spot on your travel wish list. This captivating city boasts a unique blend of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and lush green spaces, offering a dynamic and picturesque urban landscape.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast yearning to walk in the footsteps of revolutionaries or a foodie eager to indulge in culinary exploration, Boston presents an all-encompassing experience that leaves a lasting impression. With so much to offer, Boston promises an enchanting journey that you and your friend will cherish for a lifetime.

Our trip was made even more special with the help of the Boston Tourism Board and the Cambridge Tourism Board , who provided us with an amazing itinerary. Here are the 15 best things to do in Boston that made our trip unforgettable:

1. The Collonade Hotel:

For the perfect home away from home, look no further than The Colonnade Hotel in Boston’s Back Bay. With floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy beds, and amazing amenities, this hotel exceeded all expectations. The icing on the cake is their exclusive rooftop pool, making The Colonnade Hotel the ideal accommodation for your Boston stay.

2. The SkyWalk Tour:

Start your exploration with the SkyWalk Tour , offering 360-degree views of Boston from the Prudential Center’s 50th floor. Don’t forget to grab an audio handset to learn about the city’s rich history while enjoying breathtaking vistas.

3. The Duck Tour:

Hop on the iconic Duck Tour for a fun and educational experience, as you ride through the city’s streets and splash into the Charles River. Quack along with the guide and get to know Boston’s fascinating past.

4. The Historic Freedom Trail:

Follow the footsteps of history along the Freedom Trail , passing by significant sites such as Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere’s House, and the Massachusetts State House. Unfortunately, we couldn’t experience it due to the rain, but don’t miss it on your visit!

5. The Boston Public Library:

Step into a fairytale at the Boston Public Library , with its vast collection of over 6 million books. Wander through the enchanting reading rooms and marvel at the grandeur of this architectural masterpiece.

6. The Boston Public Garden:

Take a leisurely stroll through the Boston Public Garden , boasting vibrant greenery and blooming flowers. This picturesque oasis is perfect for capturing beautiful moments.

7. Beacon Hill and Acorn Street:

Explore the quaint streets of Beacon Hill, where you’ll find Acorn Street , a cobblestone lane lined with historic homes. Although steep and slippery, it’s worth a visit for the authentic Bostonian charm.

8. The Hahvahd Tour:

Venture across the river to Cambridge and join the Hahvahd Tour for an insider’s look at Harvard University. Delve into the campus’s rich history and see where notable figures like Mark Zuckerberg and Natalie Portman once lived.

9. Top of the Hub:

Savor a delectable meal at Top of the Hub , located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes while taking in breathtaking city views.

10. Avery Bar:

Head over to the Avery Bar at The Ritz-Carlton for a relaxing and moody atmosphere. Treat yourself to their signature cocktails and savor the honey-glazed pretzels while basking by the fireplace.

11. Post 390:

Experience culinary delight at Post 390 , where the house-made burrata with spring peas, strawberries, and asparagus is a must-try. The seafood tower is also an indulgence not to be missed.

12. Dig Inn:

For a scrumptious and healthy lunch, make your way to Dig Inn , where you can create your own veggie bowls filled with deliciousness. (photo from Dig Inn Instagram by @christianharder)

13. Kimpton Marlowe Hotel and Bambara:

Visit the newly redesigned brandy bar at the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel, where you can enjoy a delightful tasting experience with Dennis, the master bartender. Then, indulge in a delicious meal at Bambara .

14. Tatte Bakery:

Don’t miss the iconic Tatte Bakery , where you can relish an array of mouthwatering pastries, salads, and coffees. It’s an Insta-famous spot for a reason!

15. The Colonnade Hotel’s Rooftop Pool (RTP):

Wrap up your Boston adventure with a refreshing dip in The Colonnade Hotel’s iconic rooftop pool , complemented by breathtaking views and delicious breakfast options.

What To Pack For A Weekend Trip To Boston

When packing for a weekend trip to Boston, it’s essential to be prepared for varying weather conditions and a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. As Boston’s weather can be unpredictable, it’s wise to pack versatile clothing options. Bring layers such as light sweaters, cardigans, and a waterproof jacket, as the city experiences occasional rain and sudden temperature changes.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as much of Boston’s charm lies in exploring its historic streets on foot. Don’t forget to include a pair of sturdy sneakers for any outdoor adventures or sightseeing tours. For an evening out, consider packing a dressier outfit, as some of Boston’s upscale restaurants and entertainment venues may have dress codes.

Lastly, remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, and a crossbody bag to carry your belongings while exploring this vibrant city. With a well-thought-out and adaptable packing list, you can enjoy a delightful and hassle-free weekend getaway to Boston.

Boston offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it an ideal destination for any traveler. From iconic landmarks to delectable eateries, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags and embark on your own adventure to Beantown soon. If you loved this travel recap, stay tuned for more exciting trips and travel content. A special thanks to JetBlue, Boston USA, and Cambridge USA for making our journey unforgettable. Safe travels!

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13 Comments

I’ve always wanted to go to Boston! Definitely bookmarking this travel guide!

http://www.rdsobsessions.com

Oh you’ll love it! But def go when it’s warm!! Like June/July/August, LOL! xoxo Cathy

Ah I love Boston so much! You’re making me want to go back stat!! Glad y’all had such a good time.

xo Laura Leigh http://www.louellareese.com

It really is such an amazing city! I can’t wait to go back one day! xoxo Cathy

I live just West of Boston, and I’ve been there a million times, but it’s really fun to see it from a new perspective! Kisses, Sarah EverydayStarlet

So jealous, what a gorgeous city to live near! xoxo Cathy

YES! More travel posts please!

You got it! xoxo Cathy

Loved this post! Your pictures are gorgeous! I just also did a travel recap for D.C.! http://www.allthatjae.com

Thank you so much! xoxo Cathy

I’m going to Boston for the first time next week and really enjoyed reading about your trip! Thanks for a putting together this great travel guide!

Oh I’m so glad to hear that, have fun!! xoxo Cathy

Wow. This looks like an exhaustive guide to Boston. I never knew so much about it… I loved your photos! I would surely want to explore it. Thanks for sharing :)

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Boston travel blog — the fullest boston city guide for a trip to boston on a budget for the first-timers.

You will fall in love with Boston at the first sight when you set foot in this land. Because this peaceful land with narrow streets winding, romantic street corners of bare leaves old trees, white and purple of cherry blossoms, or tiny yellow wildflowers lurking on the green grass… All perfectly matched like a miraculous fairy dream. Boston is a city with a long history, making an important contribution to forming a prosperous America today and home to the world’s best universities such as Harvard or MIT. Boston residents are very proud of their city and do not hesitate to show their love for the city whenever they have the opportunity. Although Boston is one of the largest cities in America but when you visiting Boston, you will have a feeling that life here is more like a town than a bustling city. You will meet close, open locals, passionate football fans, great restaurants and bars and a series of interesting historical stories. Don’t miss Boston if you want to learn more about American history as well as the atmosphere of a thriving but equally friendly city. So, are you looking for a trip to Boston on a budget? Let’s check it out our Boston travel blog with the fullest Boston city guide (Boston travel guide, Boston visitors guide, Boston tourist guide) for a trip to Boston on a budget for the first time from how to get to Boston, best places to visit, top things to do in Boston… to what and where to eat in Boston below.

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Read more: Boston itinerary 4 days — How to spend 4 days in Boston & what to do in Boston for 4 days for first-timers?

Boston city guide: When is the best time to travel to Boston?

As a city located in a temperate climate region, so the best time to visit Boston is around the end of April when the weather starts to get warmer, the flowers are blooming, or early October when the cold autumn wind just come, and the whole city seemed to be covered with a new red and yellow coat of maple leaves. And this time, the Boston weather is quite pleasant, the air is cool and the natural landscape is also more beautiful.

Boston is also known as one of the most beautiful autumn viewing spots in America. Therefore, from September to November every year, the city always attracts a large number of tourists to visit and enjoy the autumn romantic atmosphere. Especially, traveling to Boston at this time visitors will also have the opportunity to participate in many interesting activities such as big boat races or exciting Halloween festivals.

However, you should pay attention to some major festivals in Boston to consider the time for your trip.

• Boston Wine Expo: Held in the middle of February every year at Seaport World Trade Center. This is one of the biggest wine festivals in the United States with over 2.000 wines created by 440 grape farms from 13 different countries.
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Occurs on St Patrick’s Day in March every year. Boston is considered the city that concentrates the most Irish living in the country, so the parade is very grand, attracting more than 850.000 viewers every year.
• Boston Marathon: One of the five main Marathon competitions of the world is recognized by the IAAF (International Association of Athletes Federations). Held on Patriots’ Day, April every year, attracting about 25.000 athletes and 500.000 spectators.
• Boston Dragon Boat: Held on the Charles River in June every year, attracting about 50 boat teams from all over the United States. This is also the oldest dragon boat racing festival in North America.

There are also a number of other major festivals such as beer festivals, fireworks festivals on Independence Day, and other food and dance activities.

Boston travel blog: Getting around Boston

Fly to Boston: Logan Airport is the only major airport in the city. You don’t have many options to travel from the airport to the city center. Shuttle bus (silver line) is the only and completely free public transport to go to South Station and there will be subway, buses to go to most major locations in the city.

Getting around Boston

Boston is a city heavily influenced by British culture plus American city planning, so traveling here is difficult and complicated, even for those who have lived here for a long time. Walking in Boston is considered the most popular way of moving as well as the best option. In particular, under Massachusetts law, vehicles must give way to pedestrians, even in cases where they are traveling in the wrong lane or even crossing a red light. If you want to rent a self-driving car here, you should thoroughly understand the routes, parking spots on the road as well as pay attention to the pedestrian line. Moreover, parking on the streets of Boston is quite difficult and expensive.

When you need to travel further, we recommend using public transport, including: bus, train, subway and even boat. These transport systems all are operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority . You can pay cash or use Charlie Card e-card for a lower fee. If you only want to explore around the city center, subway is a not bad choice, cheap and not take time to find parking. In addition, if you need to go out at night when public transport stops, you can also travel by taxi.

Taxis are also a means to use but the price is quite high. And if you go at rush hour, you can’t “move”.

To visit nearby places like Providence, Worcester, Cape Cod .. We recommend renting a car at the airport. Car rental service is very much here, but you need an international driver’s license.

Boston tourist guide: Trip costs

• Accommodation: Hotels in America are not cheap, and Boston is no exception. For centrally located hotels, the room rates can be up to $40 or more for a night in a single room and about $80 per night for a double room.
• Cheap hotels: Cheap and budget hotels are usually located on the outskirts of the city, some near the metro area. Most of these hotels range in price from $100-140 per night for a double room, but you can also find cheaper hotels if you try to find.
• Food: If you eat at a restaurant, you will have to spend about $15-20 for a meal with drinks. But you can also save money by buying pizza and sandwiches in mobile carts or small shops, the prices of these meals range from $5-8. If you want to save even more, you can cook at the hotel, you will only spend about $50 for the whole week.
• Transport: Boston has a very developed transportation system, you can move easily here. In addition, the subway is also very easy to use, costing about $2.65 per trip.

Boston visitors guide: Some useful tips for saving budget

• Eat and drink at Quincy Market: Quincy Market is a place to sell a wide range of cheap dishes.
• Walking: Because Boston is a historic city, you should not miss the walks along the roads including the most famous route – The Freedom Trail.
• Drink beer outside the center: You can experience Boston’s nightlife at Brighton or Allston with cheap beer mugs and sit and relax watching the surrounding landscape.
• Visit the park for free: You can explore the Arnold Arboretum park at no cost. It allows you to experience the 260 acres of land. Moreover, the park is open from early morning to late evening, allowing you freely exploring. The park has many trails, gardens, lawns spread out and there are countless flowers brought from around the world.
• Enjoy outdoor music shows: During the summer, you can enjoy free music programs held next to the Charles River.

Boston travel guide: Where to stay in Boston?

Because Boston is the largest economic – cultural – tourist center in the Northeast, it is easy to choose big hotels in the city center, expensive prices are the only obstacle when you choose stay in the central area. Instead, To save costs, you can find Dorm rooms with 4-6 beds or you can find a home or vacant room on Airbnb.com for a much cheaper price, and some places can allow you cooking, which saves a lot of money. In addition, you can choose stay in a hostel suitable for backpackers. Hostel price in the city ranges from $40- $70/night, quite cheap compared to the average room rates. In addition, if finance is not a problem, the hotel is always the best choice.

In addition, you can refer to one of the best Airbnb in Boston: Spacious & Modern, Professionally Sanitized at $57/night or PRIVATE Condo in Prime Location at $107/night.

–> Airbnb link discounts up to $35 for the first booking here: https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185

Below are some best luxurious hotels you can refer to

Mandarin Oriental Boston : No hotels in Boston can compare with Mandarin Oriental. From services, facilities, utilities to location are very good value for money. To deserve the top spot, the price is not cheap at all. About $600/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Bluebird Suites Near South Station : It is equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bath or shower and free toiletries. Besides, the kitchen also has a coffee maker and kettle, dishwasher, oven, microwave and toaster are also provided. Bluebird Suites Near South Station is a 9-minute walk from Boston Common Park and 4 km from Logan Airport. The room rates from $289.31/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Boston Harbor Hotel : If Mandarin Oriental is too much for you, Boston Harbor is a great alternative. It is famous for its enthusiasm. They will take care of you bit by bit from the moment you arrive. In addition, there is no shortage of services here. Only request, you will be met. Price for a night is also relatively expensive: About $270/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Ritz-Carlton, Boston (Address: 10 Avery Street, Boston, MA 02111), 5-star hotel, with room rates from $756.02/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Some best mid-range, budget hotels in Boston you can refer to

The Godfrey Hotel Boston : One of Boston’s best 4-star hotels. Located in the heart of the city, 600m from the Freedom Trail; about 800m from Boston garden. The services are great. You can hire someone to put away your car for $50. The price is moderate, the cheapest is about $130/day. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

HI Boston Hostel : Located in downtown Boston, this hostel is a 5-minute walk from Boston Common Park and public transport. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, are fully equipped for disabled guests, guests can choose accommodation for women, men or both men and women. Stay here you can relax in the games room with billiards and TV. Right in the yard of the hostel, there is also a coffee bar and snacks vending machines and drinks. The room rates from $51.83/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Boston Luxury Suites (Boston Lodge and Suites) : The hotel is about 1.9 km from JFK Presidential Museum & Library, this hotel only serves breakfast but you can choose a variety of continental, vegetarian or gluten-free meals. Rooms also feature a flat-screen TV with cable TV, a private kitchen and a dining area. Boston Luxury Suites offers rooms with terraces and each room is equipped with a coffee maker and has a separate seating area. Boston Luxury Suites offers free Wi-Fi, tennis courts and a children’s playground. The room rates from $120.83/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Patrick’s Homestay : Located next to Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, North End and the Institute of Contemporary Art. It is very affordable but rooms are airy, providing all the necessary equipment with TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, giving you interesting experiences. Visitors can also relax in the common lounge area. In addition, there is a fully equipped shared bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. The room rates from $89.83/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com ).

Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Boston TD Garden (Hotel Indigo) :  If you are looking for a cheap hotel in Boston, the Holiday Inn Express Boston Garden will be a suitable suggestion for you. This hotel is located in the downtown area, opposite the Northern subway station and TD Garden Arena stadium. Each room at this hotel is equipped with modern amenities such as 32-inch flat-screen TVs and video games, coffee makers, air conditioning systems, fireplaces, … Moreover, guests staying here can also use the 24-hour gym and enjoy attractive continental breakfasts. Holiday Inn Express Boston Garden is also just 10 minutes from Boston Science Museum, a 15-minute walk from the New England aquarium. The room rates from $194.31/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Boston Park Plaza (Address: Arlington Street, 50 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116-3912), 4-star property, with room rates from $127.77/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Lakeside Inn (Address: 595 North Ave, Wakefield, MA), 2-star property, with room rates from $69/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Constitution Inn (Address: 150 3rd Ave, Boston, MA), 2-star property, with room rates from $69/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Quality Inn Boston-Revere (Address: 100 Morris Street, Revere, MA), 3-star property, with room rates from $101/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The Liberty, a Marriott Luxury Collection Hotel, Boston (Address: 215 Charles St, Boston, MA), 5-star property, with room rates from $181/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The College Club of Boston (Address: 44 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02116, USA), with room rates from $172.9/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com ).

Revere Hotel Boston Common (Address: 200 Stuart St, Boston, MA), 4-star property, with room rates from $179/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Taj Boston (Address: 15 Arlington St, Boston, MA), 4.5-star property, with room rates from $179.9/night. (You can check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find, check rates, availability & booking for Boston hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com or Airbnb.com .

Boston travel blog: Best places to visit and top things to do in Boston

Boston is one of the oldest cities in America, so it is not surprising that this place attracts many tourists based on its rich history. So, before going to Boston, you should learn a little bit about the history of this city, but the more you know, your tour more better to understand and compare with what you already know, have read and are still wondering about it. Some of most standing out historic attractions of Boston in particular and the U.S. in general such as: Bunker Hill Monument, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, Old State House, Bunker Hill Monument, …

When talking about Boston, people often refer to not only Boston, but also neighboring cities like Cambridge, Somerville, Quincy, etc. This region’s full name is the Greater Boston. Therefore, many famous places are commonly known in Boston but actually they located outside Boston. For example, two world-famous universities are Harvard and MIT located in the city of Cambridge.

Featured attractions in central Boston

Trail of freedom.

This is a road across historic Boston City, which is about 4 km long. Walking along the trail, visitors will feel like walking into a giant revolutionary museum with 16 important relics such as Boston Common Park, Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s house, … You can get the map and information book at the beginning of the Trail of Freedom.

Continued reading…

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How To Have A Fun-Filled Weekend In Boston, Massachusetts

Table of Contents

Getting There

Wandering Washington Street in Boston

Getting Around

Walking the Freedom Trail in Boston. The brick line on the ground denotes the path for this important attraction.

Boston subway map via the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

Duck Tongue & Chicken Pho In Chinatown

A heaping bowl of Pho from Pho Pasteur in Boston’s Chinatown

Eating Italian In The North End

Italian signs in Boston’s East End

A Boston Cream Pie and a Lobster Tail (Sfogliatella) at Modern Pastry

Local Lobster In The Seaport District

Tim and Eric digging into their first lobsters — albeit in a confused fashion — at Yankee Lobster

Enjoying the flavors of Harpoon Brewery

History Meets Limitless Local Eatery Options

Dining in Faneuil Hall Marketplace

A Unique Take On Roast Beef

Walk through history.

Old City Hall along the Freedom Trail in Boston

Take In The View

Climbing and chillen on the grass at the Bunker Hill Monument. Great spot to take in history, views and a picnic!

Parks Galore

Enjoying parks and architecture in Boston

The Women’s Memorial in Boston

Shops Galore In The Back Bay

Newbury Street in Boston

• I spent about an hour in Trident Booksellers and Cafe , an awesome bookstore with funny cards, unique gifts, mandala coloring books, inspiring quote-laced items, literary-themed temporary tattoos, coffee table books, graphic novels and more — including a cafe.
• In every city I visit I try to eat at an homemade ice cream shop, and Emack & Bolios did not disappoint. The “hippie ice cream store” is now a chain, but was started in Boston in 1975 by a lawyer and self-declared hippie who worked pro bono mainly with the homeless, civil rights activists, Vietnam War protestors and big name bands like Aerosmith and U2. Cool backstory, but the real reason I went in was because their ice cream is all natural and void of fructose and dextrose. Plus, they offered 100-calorie-per-scoop probiotic live culture ice cream. The giant waffle cones dipped in fudge and cereal and the micro brewed sodas helped, too. I had the Black Raspberry Chip live culture ice cream, refreshing on a hot day.

Yummy Emack & Bolio’s

• I’m a hardcore hot head, so the sandwich board at Pavement Coffeehouse touting cayenne ginger ale beckoned me in. Yum! They also do an indulgent Spanish Latte laced with sweetened condensed milk and a monthly comedy night.
• For me eating healthy isn’t about avoiding carbs, gluten or meat; it’s about eating natural. So Wich!t Sandwich was perfect as their thing is salads, soups and sandwiches made with all natural ingredients. Eats also come with homemade fries and condiments. Recommendation: the “Carolina Pork” featuring smoked pulled pork, barbecue sauce and tangy coleslaw on a brioche bun.
• I’m obsessed with anyplace offering free tastings, especially if the free tastings are delicious. Boston Olive Oil Co. features over 60 varieties of olive oil and balsamic, all available to sample in small paper cups and with tiny breads. Along with varietal bottles they infuse products with ingredients like truffle, blood orange, chipotle, cilantro and garlic, and staff are happy to help you pair. I ended up buying Roasted Walnut Oil and Blackberry Ginger Balsamic, which paired insanely well together.

A Somber Experience At The New England Holocaust Memorial

Inside the New England Holocaust Memorial. Photo via  Ben Sutherland/flickr .

Get Smart At Prestigious Schools

Photo via Harvard Square

Having fun at Fenway Park in Boston

Eat + Party On Historic Union Street

Union Oyster House via Shinya Suzuki/flickr

Rooftop cabana fun at The Colonnade Hotel Boston

What would you add to this Boston travel guide? Please share in the comments below! 

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mmmm! legroommmm…! Nice write up Ms. Nice to see you guys again.

Great!!! Visited Boston in 1 day (less than a day actually) and I loved their city so much!

Loved your list, I recently visited Boston and loved it. Next time I go I will have to check out some of the stuff on your list that I missed this trip. My visit actually led to be creating a blog and my first post is on this great city, https://thebuckway.com/five-free-things-to-do-in-boston/

Really useful travel guide about and informative content about boston.Thanks for sharing.

This is an awesome guide for anyone looking to explore Boston! I’m so excited to plan my trip and explore all the great things this city has to offer. Thanks for sharing!

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Home » North America » USA » Boston

The BEST Boston Travel Guide (Budget Tips • 2024)

Before jumping into this Boston travel guide, I have good news and bad news.

The good news is: Boston is a really rad city these days. The bad news is: no one really talks with a Boston accent like Matt Damon or Ben Affleck from Good Will Hunting anymore.

Whether you’re greeted with a “good morning!” or a “good mawnin!” Boston is still one of the best cities in America.

Aside from being stunning, Boston is jam-packed with historical sites, great food, and unabashed character. For visitors and residents alike, there are so many things to do and see here that having the best Boston city travel guide pays off dividends.

I’ve taken all of my insider knowledge of the city and poured it into this one travel guide so that you can have a grand ol’ time in Boston.

You’ll soon know all about the best cheap things to do in Boston, where to stay on a budget, sample Boston itineraries, and the best places to drink.

Basically–you’ll be ready to hit the streets of Boston and explore them as the locals do. So what are you waitin’ for? Let’s get to it people!

We’re headin’ to Beantown…

Why Visit Boston?

A sample 3-day itinerary for boston, 10 top things to do in boston, backpacker accommodation in boston, boston backpacking costs, best time to travel to boston, staying safe in boston, how to get into and around boston, working and volunteering in boston, nightlife in boston, faqs about traveling in boston, final advice before visiting boston.

Boston is one of the coolest cities to add to your USA backpacking itinerary. It’s a charming place that’s easily digestible, idyllic in summers, and – best of all – it truly has something for everyone.

From its serene harbor and many historical locales to some of America’s most iconic sports teams, Boston is a place for backpackers, families, and anyone and everyone in between. Bostonians love their city, and as it’s home to just over 600,000 people, it has a small-town charm amidst the high-rises and luxury condos.

Boston can also transport you back hundreds of years into the past if you let it: old graveyards, the oldest park in the United States, and a whole lot more. And I can’t even talk about Boston travel without mentioning Fenway Stadium which has been open for ballgames since 1912.

Add in some of the best universities in the world (big up Boston, MIT & Harvard University!), New England seafood, and pedestrian-friendly streets and you have yourself one heck of a small city!

Plus, it’s the only place in the US where you can experience the unique version of English known as the Boston accent.

What are the Major Attractions in Boston?

Boston is one of the most historical places to visit in the USA , so it’s no surprise that a few of the city’s top attractions are related to its past. Additionally, Boston is a major sports and foodie destination: you certainly won’t go hungry during your visit. The city’s nickname is even derived from some food: Boston baked beans.

As much as I recommend taking some time to simply wander around and see where you end up, there are a few Boston attractions that you just can’t miss:

• The Freedom Trail
• Fenway Park
• Quincy Market
• Boston Public Garden

How Long to Spend in Boston?

As aforementioned, Boston ain’t big. It might not be the smallest city in the US, but it’s far from the largest. That means you can hit all the main sights relatively quickly!

3 days is the ideal amount of time to spend in the city, which would make for a nice weekend in Boston , though weekdays tend to be less busy for most of the year.

The following is a sample 3-day Boston itinerary. Don’t worry, we’re gonna cover most of the top destinations that were already mentioned in this travel guide, as well as some of the other best places to visit in Boston .

Day 1 in Boston: All About Downtown

Make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes because we’re kicking off this Boston itinerary with a long day!

Start by catching the T all the way to Fenway Park , which is one of the most famous stadiums in the USA. (Bostonians treat it like a church.) Baseball rallies are held here regularly and most of the bars are packed, regardless of whether there’s a game in progress or not.

Let’s depart from Fenway and head deeper into Downtown . Cross the Back Bay Fens and Fenway Garden Society and or Boylston Street , which is one of the city’s main roadways.

Walk about 20 minutes through the Back Bay district until you reach one of my favorite spots: Copley Square . This square hosts some of the most arresting buildings in Boston, including the Public Library , Trinity Church , and John Hancock Tower , all of which create a wonderful juxtaposition.

Continue walking east and soon you’ll arrive at the Boston Commons – the largest and most important park in the city. The Commons is a very popular place to hang out in, no matter what time of the year. Going for a swan boat ride is somewhat customary in the Commons, if not a little touristy.

Just north of the Commons is Beacon Hill , which is one of the most historically significant areas in Boston. Lined with brownstones, paved with cobblestones, and topped by the magnificent State House , Beacon Hill is like a time capsule from Colonial days.

Let’s wrap up our day and make a beeline for North End for dinner. The North End is the old Italian quarter and is one of the coolest places to eat in Boston. Here, the pasta is piled high, the meatballs are fat, and the bakeries are just about endless. Thanks, Italy.

Day 2 in Boston: Visiting Cambridge

Though not technically a part of Boston, nearby Cambridge is still totally worth checking out thanks to its prestigious institutions. Most notably, Cambridge hosts two of the most famous universities in the world – MIT and Harvard University.

Let’s begin the second day of our Boston travel guide at the famed Harvard University .

If you grabbed the T, the first place that you’ll see on campus is Harvard Yard . The Yard is the oldest part of the campus and has been the setting for many films. The Yard is a bucolic setting and will probably be overrun by scampering students.

As you wander around the campus, you’ll notice that the architecture of Harvard is a gorgeous blend of several styles – Gothic, Classical, Revival – yet every building is still made from that quintessential red brick. Several of these buildings host noteworthy museums that are open to the public. For me, a tour of the campus is reason enough to visit Cambridge.

Let’s depart Harvard and visit a very different college: MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology).

Whereas Harvard excels in the fine arts and business, MIT is all about engineering and the sciences. MIT’s most notable building is the Great Dome – a fine example of neoclassicism. Aside from this triumphant building, there are lots of ultra-modern buildings on the MIT campus and these make for great foils to Harvard’s more traditional styles.

As you leave MIT, you will be greeted by the Charles River and the Boston skyline in the distance. This shoreline has one of the best views of the city and is a great place to catch the sunset.

If you’d like a nice quiet place to reminisce about the day, head to nearby Kendall Square Roof Garden , which is one of the best secret places in Boston and will reopen with its new sexier-than-ever design in Summer 2022.

Day 3 in Boston: South and East Boston

On the final day of this Boston travel itinerary, you’re going to explore the edges of the city.

Let’s start in South Boston – home of Irish haunts and all things “wicked”. South Boston had a bad rap for a lot of years, being the headquarters for much of the city’s organized crime, but it has really cleaned up its act.

South Boston AKA “ Southie ” is now one of the most desirable areas of the city.

The most noticeable trait of South Boston is the Southie Boston accent, which has served as the inspiration for just about every bad Boston impression. While the accent isn’t as strong these days, hearing some old Southie ask for a “ qua-ffee regula ” from Dunkin Donuts might really make your day. Eavesdrop on some local banter before the accent disappears altogether.

Next, head up to the  Seaport District , which is basically South Boston’s waterfront. This district is undergoing a huge renaissance and is home to many of the city’s best museums. Here you’ll find excellent institutions like the Children’s Museum , Institute of Contemporary Art , and the Tea Party Museum .

To wrap up South Boston, head across the channel and back into the Downtown area. You’ll first run into Chinatown/Leather District but head north to eventually arrive at the Long Wharf .

Long Wharf is home to many of the city’s most well-known attractions, particularly Quincy Market , where you can grab a delicious meal on the cheap.

From the wharf, you can catch a water taxi to East Boston and then walk to Lo Presti Park . With unbeatable views of the city and plenty of athletic facilities, there are few better things to do at night in Boston than hang out here.

Spending More Time in Boston?

Got more time on your hands? There are plenty more things to do in and around Boston to keep you busy for way more than a weekend! Here are some of the more offbeat adventures the city has to offer:

• Chill at Corey Hill Park : Another stellar park in Boston that’s often skipped by tourists is Corey Hill, which actually sits over 260 feet above sea level. The park is over 4 acres, and has great spots for relaxing, exercising, or picknicking.
• See a show at Symphony Hall : Constructed at the turn of the 20th century, this is regarded as one of the top three concert halls in the world . Many people plan their trips to Boston around the shows, and the schedule is certainly worth checking if near perfect acoustics appeal to you!
• Enjoy the Observation Deck : The Observation deck–at Independence Wharf–provides iconic vistas of Boston for free! Contained with an old warehouse, there are both indoor and outdoor portions for your free viewing pleasure! Just be sure to bring some type of ID with you as it’s required.
• Visit the MIT Museum : The Massachussetts Institute of Technology was established in 1971 and is now one of the most prestigious universitiies in the world. You can find a number of fascinating exhibits here pertaining to artificial inteligence and all other facets of technological research.
• Tour the Samuel Adams Brewery : While it might be the smallest out of the Boston Beer Company’s many breweries, the Samuel Adams location is the only one that gives tours! The tours are either free or cheap and give you a chance to get to know the brand’s history and sample some beers while you’re at it.

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Here are some of the best things to do in Boston that you really shouldn’t miss:

1. Walk the Freedom Trail

No Boston travel guide is complete without suggesting a walk on the terrific Freedom Trail. This pathway visits most of the city’s most important historical attractions including the Boston Commons , Bunker Hill Monument , and Paul Revere’s House . Best of all – it’s free!

2. Feast in the North End

Since this is the Italian Quarter, there really is nothing better to do than eat pizza and Italian food. You won’t have much trouble finding a place to eat considering every other shop is either a restaurant or bakery. You won’t find me complaining.

3. Catch the ferry to East Boston

One of the best places to visit in Boston (that may also be a bit surprising) is East Boston. This part of town, specifically around Lo Presti Park, offers unrivaled views of the city and the journey across Boston Harbor is pretty sweet too!

4. Visit the hallowed Fenway Park

Fenway Park is probably the most beloved structure in the entire city and is just about as important to Bostonians as anything. For the most Boston experience ever, catch a game here and sit in the legendary Green Monster.

Boston Red Sox forever!

5. Discover the Mapparium

What’s cooler for world travelers than walking inside a giant freakin’ globe?! Hidden inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this interactive art installation allows you to see the world from a whole different perspective. This is seriously a great spot for any interested in geography.

6. Snap some pics in Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is probably the prettiest neighborhood in Boston thanks to its charming colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. While I loved visiting the historic State Building, nothing really tops the eminently quaint Acorn Street.

7. Go for a run on the Esplanade

Boston is an active town and it seems like there’s always some type of organized workout going on. There is no better place to go for a run than the Charles River Esplanade . In the summer, this area is just gorgeous and will certainly give you something to think about while you sweat.

8. Have a picnic in the Boston Commons

One of the most classic and coolest places to eat in Boston is the Commons. This giant parkland is a gathering place for all kinds of folks. You’ll see plenty of people picnicking here in the afternoon.

9. Get off the beaten path in Boston

There are tons of secret spots in Boston that only require a little extra effort to see. Mix things up by visiting the Ruins of Schoolmaster Hill , the Sacred Cod of State House , or the Ether Dome .

10. Visit the Boston Museum of Fine Arts

Containing over 450,000 works of art, the Boston Museum of Fine Arts is the 14th largest art museum in the world. Founded in 1870, the museum includes paintings, sculptures, and hosts fine temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent treasures. Admission is $27.

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Boston has a huge variety of accommodation catering to all sorts of travelers. Whether you’re a backpacker, a working professional, or traveling on a family trip, there’s something for you in Boston.

I previously mentioned that lodging in Boston is very expensive. Unless you’re insistent on having a private apartment or room, I highly recommend staying at a hostel .

They’re affordable, fun, and of a high standard. There are many quality hostels in Boston , so don’t feel like you have to settle for a fuck-bucket of a party option.

If you really wanted your own place, then you can check out Airbnb . Hotels are often bland and impersonal, not to mention expensive. There are some really cool Airbnb options in Boston that offer great experiences. I stayed in a great one on Newbury Street.

The best way to save on accommodation in Boston is to go camping . You’ll often have to stay quite far outside of the city, but if you have a car and some quality backpacking gear , then this problem can be alleviated. Just drive to the nearest subway stop and take the train into the city (driving in the city is a nightmare). Don’t forget a tent either!

The Best Places to Stay in Boston

Here are some of the best places to stay in Boston with the best neighborhoods to choose from.

If you’re visiting Boston for the first time, there’s no better neighbourhood than Back Bay. Centrally located and well connected, Back Bay is close to everything.

Downtown is far and away the most iconic neighbourhoods in Boston. It is home to a number of historic sites and cultural gems, including Boston Common and Boston Public Gardens.

Chinatown is a small but vibrant neighbourhood located in central Boston. It is the fourth largest Chinatown in the United States and this neighbourhood is home to incredible restaurants and colourful shops.

Boston’s South End neighbourhood is one of the most overlooked and underrated areas of the city. Within South End, you’ll find some of the best restaurants and art galleries in the city and can enjoy a hip yet relaxed atmosphere.

Jamaica Plain

For families with children, there’s no better neighbourhood than Jamaica Plain. A quiet and residential district south of the city centre, Jamaica Plain has charming restaurants, cute cafes and a great selection of green spaces to explore.

Boston is one of the most expensive cities in the USA, mostly because of astronomical property values.

Thankfully, this trend doesn’t affect tourism too much and Boston is still relatively affordable when compared to other major East Coast cities (New York and DC are much more expensive). Ultimately, Boston can be cheap, but only with the proper guidance and habits in place.

With plenty of tips to visit Boston on a shoestring budget, maybe you’ll even get by on $10/day.

A lower average daily budget for Boston will be around $60-$80 . This includes a dorm bed, groceries, public transport, and some spending money.

Without question, lodging will be your greatest expense in Boston. Yep, accommodation in Boston ain’t cheap. Unless you’re willing to splurge on a hotel or Airbnb – often just as expensive as those in New York – you’re gonna have to stick to the Boston hostels and guesthouses.

You can also look into urban campgrounds and utilize Couchsurfing if you like, but these options are limited.

The prices of food and drink vary widely. For example, the central districts of Boston and Cambridge can be particularly expensive.

Even Quincy Market, long hailed for its street food, is sorely lacking in truly affordable options these days. Hit up the outer suburbs of East Boston, South Boston, and Allston for cheaper offerings.

Public transport is cheap and effective in Boston, but since trips are one-way, tickets add up quickly. Consider buying a daily/weekly pass if you think you’ll be using transit often.

A Daily Budget in Boston

Here’s how much traveling in Boston costs, broken down by travel style:

A Few Free Things to Do in Boston

If you’re looking to save some extra cash, then try doing one of these free things in Boston on your next visit!

• Freedom Trail – The lauded walkway that takes you through to many of most important historical attractions in Boston. Of course, the 2.5-mile walk itself is free but some locations may be ticketed. Highlights include Bunker Hill , Boston Commons , Paul Revere House , and Faneuil House .
• Sam Adams Brewery – The treasured brewery offers free tours of their facilities and almost always gives out complimentary samples at the end. Yes, FREE BEER!
• Boston Harbour – One of my fave things to do is to take a stroll down by Boston Harbor and feed the fresh sea breeze.
• Museums – Many of Boston’s best museums offer free admission on certain days and/or at certain times. Check the websites of the following for more details: Bunker Hill, MIT Museum, ICA, Children’s Museum, Museum of Science, MFA, and Museum of Bad Art.
• Open-air screenings – One of the most popular things to do in Boston in the summer is catch an outdoor movie. Many organizations arrange free film viewings at public spaces (parks, plazas, etc) in Boston. Most of these films are American classics too.
• November Project – This is one of the best free things to do in Boston! Join this health-minded community for prearranged, free exercises in many of Boston’s public areas. Examples of activities include running, relays, and calisthenics.
• Free festivals – There’s always a free event happening in Boston , especially during the summers.

Travel Tips – Boston on a Budget

It’s easy to spend without thinking, and even easier to go broke.

In hopes of helping you explore Beantown on the cheap, here are some Boston travel tips for folks on a budget. Follow these words of advice and you’ll find that your dollar goes much further!

• Always pre-fade before going out – Buying full-priced drinks at the bar is a great way to waste your money. Instead, buy booze at the store and drink with your friends at the hostel/their house/the park/anywhere besides the actual bar.
• Cook at home as often as possible – Buying your own groceries and cooking at home will save you heaps of cash. This is where using Airbnb can come in handy.
• Buy a special pass – If you’re planning on seeing a lot of the city, then you may want to invest a City Pass . This card will allow free entry into many of Boston’s must see attractions and even give you special rates for public transport.
• Search for “1-Buck Shucks” – Dollar oyster deals are a New England staple! Search for the best oysters in Boston and pay next to nothing in the process. Be careful though; shit can feel weird after a couple dozen of these.

Why You Should Travel to Boston with a Water Bottle

We’re all aware of our plastic consumption infiltrating our precious oceans now… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You can’t save the world overnight, but you CAN be part of the solution! Small changes are easy, and they make a difference. So I hope you then become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveler .

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Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

I don’t think I’ve ever met a New Englander that really loved the weather there. Sure, some people may make lukewarm statements like “the weather is fine” or “I don’t mind it,” but to hear anyone say “I just adore the weather in Boston” is probably a sign of severe brain haemorrhaging.

The weather in Boston is notoriously uncooperative. Winters are frigid, windy, and prone to freak snowstorms. Summers are warm and sunny but unfortunately too short. Spring and autumn are like flakey friends – really enjoyable but, more often than naught , absent.

Summer is when Boston is full of out-of-towners. This sudden influx usually jacks up prices and creates congestion. Many Bostonians will also be fleeing to the coastal communities – e.g. The Cape – during this time, which can make the city feel a bit hallow.

The best times to visit Boston are probably during the summer’s shoulder seasons (April-May & September-October). The weather during these months is often reliable if not a little on the cool side. There will be fewer tourists in town, which means prices will be lower, and more students, which means the bars will be packed.

Mid-October is peak fall foliage in Boston and it’s an absolutely breathtaking period to visit New England. People from all over the East Coast flock to New England to see the trees turn a fiery color and this makes the city feel a little more alive for a couple more weeks.

Winters in Boston are lamentable. They are cruel, not because of their harshness but because of their deceptiveness. Winter temperatures usually hover around a reasonable 32-38 °F but Boston’s humidity makes the chill penetrate the bone. The wind also batters you and it’s not unheard of for a wind chill to cause the relative temperature to drop 20 degrees.

What to Pack for Boston

While your Boston wardrobe will be largely dependent upon the season and weather forecast, here are a few things you just shouldn’t head out without:

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

By most contemporary American safety standards, Boston is pretty tame. It used to be dangerous, but thanks to huge public safety initiatives, the city is now quite relaxed. Those planning a trip to Boston should not have to worry about personal safety IF they are aware of a few issues.

Like the rest of the world, petty crime is still a part of life in Boston. Pickpocketing has been known to occur in busy nightlife districts and on public transport. Carjackings and break-ins are not unheard of either. When visiting Boston, be sure to exhibit all of the usual travel safety precautions  and to always have your wits about you, just to be on the careful side.

The real way to get in trouble is if you started bad-mouthing the locals. Bostonians, though generally friendly, do not take kindly to being insulted and, after a couple of beers, will beat the shit out of anyone. This means talking shit about the Red Sox, saying something like Tom Brady is a pussy , or trying to impersonate their distinct accent (they really hate that last bit). Unless you’re really looking for a fight, just keep ye’ mouth shut.

If you’re caught in the crossfire in or outside of a bar, the police are never too far away. Many cops patrol the neighborhoods that are most prone to fights to break things up.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Boston

While Boston is far from the biggest party city in the US, it is still home to some bars and nightclubs that will be sure to make for a good time. You can expect a wide variety of scenes that cater to all preferences: from Bijou in Chinatown to the famous bar scene in the North End , Boston absolutely has some places to get lit. The only downside: almost all nightlife in Boston shuts down around 2 AM.

While this would sound early if you were traveling in New York City , it’s actually when places have to legally shut down in Boston. I told you Boston feels more quaint and old-timey than other East Coast cities!

As for other things, you can definitely find every party favor under the sun while backpacking Boston. Luckily, recreational weed is legal and you can grab it from any dispensary.

For anything else, you’re going to have to know someone. But be careful: party drugs are being laced with fentanyl all over the US these days. Always use a testing kit and do some research prior to partaking in drugs on the road!

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Boston

Let’s get real: traveling without insurance in the USA is risky. Especially with the infamous (and ridiculous) for-profit health system. So do consider getting  good travel insurance  sorted before you head off on an adventure to Boston.

I have used  World Nomads  for years now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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There are many ways in and out of Boston as the city is well-connected by land, air, and nautical routes. Those planning a trip to Boston should have little problem arriving into and departing from the city.

Boston’s main airport is Logan International and is serviced by many flights, both domestically and internationally. As the primary gateway for all of New England, Logan receives a lot of passengers on a daily basis.

Boston Logan is connected to the city via a subway line (Blue) and bus line (Silver). The airport is located close to the city itself so those who prefer taxis shouldn’t have to pay an arm and a leg.

There are several long-distance trains that stop in Boston. Amtrak , the largest train network in the USA, connects Boston with cities as distant as Chicago, Washington DC, and Portland (Maine).

Note that Boston has two train stations – North Station and South Station – and each manages different routes. Trains to/from northern destinations terminate at North Station while southern destinations terminate at South Station.

Being a part of the Eastern Seaboard, Boston’s roadway system is very well-developed. Those who are on a New England road trip or an East Coast road trip will have no problem getting to Boston by car. Be aware that New England has lots of toll roads.

Traveling by bus can be a preferable way of getting in and out of Boston. You’ll avoid paying tolls and gas as well as avoid the stress of driving in the city. (East Coast drivers are aggressive.)

There are frequent buses linking Boston to all major Northeastern cities like New York, Philadelphia, Portland (Maine), and Providence. There’s even a direct bus from Boston to Montreal, Canada.

Getting Around Boston

Contrary to what Boston’s skyscrapers might indicate, Boston is actually a compact city. This means that most will be able to manage the city with only public transport, rideshares, and two feet.

Boston benefits from a very effective public transportation system. Subway lines, locally referred to as “ The T ,” connect nearly every major district in the Greater Boston area. If a neighborhood isn’t conveniently located near a subway line, there are plenty more buses. There are even water taxis that will take you across the Boston Bay to East Boston and Charlestown.

One-way tickets on the T cost $2.50 and include a bus transfer, while one-way tickets for exclusively the bus cost $2. An unlimited one-day ticket costs $12.50 and is likely your best option.

If you think that you’ll be using a lot of public transport, consider picking up a LinkPass , which offers unlimited rides for a certain amount of days. LinkPasses come in 1 and 7-day increments.

Honestly, you can probably see most of Boston’s points of interest on foot. Most of the top attractions in Boston are located in the Downtown area and anything else just requires a quick ride on the T.

Boston is a very pedestrian-friendly city and is actually better enjoyed from street level, anyway. Granted, you’ll probably want to use the buses and trains during the winter months.

Biking is a popular way of getting around Boston as it’s a flat city, but poor weather and bike infrastructure make biking inconvenient at times.

Buying a Transit Pass in Boston

It is highly recommended that you pick up a CharlieCard while touring Boston as they are convenient and offer discounted rates ($2 for the subway, and $1.50 for buses). CharlieCards are free themselves and can be recharged at major ticketing machines.

Like most cities in the US, Boston isn’t exactly a digital nomad hotspot. Everything is quite pricey and, simply put, the digital nomad scene just isn’t there.

This doesn’t mean you can’t work online from Boston! You absolutely can: a city associated with so many universities certainly isn’t lacking in Wi-Fi-having coffee shops.

As for finding a job in Boston, the US has very strict work laws, so you won’t be able to do that without US citizenship or another permit. Volunteering is possible, though still very uncommon compared to the scenes in Europe or Australia.

If you want to find a reputable place to volunteer, we at The Broke Backpacker use Worldpackers , a neat online community that connects travelers with volunteering opportunities all over the globe. The platform is review-based and honest so you’ll know what you’re getting into BEFORE you arrive!

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Boston really bats above its weight class when it comes to nightlife with a huge selection of bars catering to all types of people.

Boston has a couple of key crowds when it comes to the bars. They are 1. Tourists, 2. Students, and 3. Locals. Each has an area that they like to hang out in.

The tourists mostly end up going out around Downtown as this area has the most things to do at night in Boston. The Theater District/Chinatown hosts the majority of the city’s nightclubs and is particularly rowdy.

Nearby Faneuil Hall gets plenty of action too. Boylon , Canal , and Newbury Street are also active, though you’d be hard-pressed not to find a busy street in Downtown Boston on the weekend.

Students tend to hang out around the college campuses and student housing neighborhoods. Allston , a well-known student suburb, has lots of cheap drinks for those poor students.

On the other hand, Cambridge Central Square attracts mostly Harvard kids and is a bit more expensive (thanks to daddy’s allowance).

Local Bostonians tend to go out wherever they feel like, be it Downtown or Dorchester. Fenway is ground-zero for local sports fans and goes absolutely nuts on game days.

The hip South End is getting increasingly rambunctious. If you’re looking for a classic Irish pub, complete with gruff working-class folk, there’s no better place than South Boston.

Note that Boston is subject to Blue Laws , which, essentially, limit when, where, and how much you can drink. These Blue Laws are very strict, much to the ire of the locals, and drinking in Boston can be a hassle sometimes. Thanks to Blue Laws, bars close at 2 am promptly on the weekends in Boston and happy hour is banned city-wide.

Dining in Boston

Boston is a world-class culinary destination with an immense selection of restaurants and bars to choose from. Here, you’ll be able to find everything from local delicacies – like lobster rolls and cream pies – to ethnic delights from all corners of the globe. Boston baked beans are the obvious choice too.

Top it off with a heavenly pint of New England lager, and you have all the makings of a foodie paradise. And if you want to ensure you don’t miss anything–there are plenty of quality Boston food tours to choose from!

Boston’s food scene is mostly defined by New England cuisine which is, essentially, a blend of the many cooking styles brought over by the original immigrants. New England foods are often hearty and rich, which is great for battling those cold winter days.

Baking is the primary means of cooking so you shouldn’t have to worry too much about greasy food (unless you purposely seek them out). Deserts and sweets are particularly well-loved in New England.

Of course, being on the coast and all, seafood is the foremost staple of the Boston diet. And, by God, is it awesome. Lobster rolls, chowders, and oyster shooters are just some of the dishes prepared to near-perfection, much to the pride of the locals. Really, nothing beats a clambake on a Boston summer day.

Boston still has a large immigrant population and there are a huge amount of international restaurants strewn throughout the city. Being the Italian quarter, the North End is where you’ll find the best pasta among other Italian staples. East Boston is one of the best places to eat in the city as it hosts a huge selection of ethnic restaurants from Portuguese to South American to Asian.

You’ll find Irish fare just about everywhere in the city but the most “authentic” will be found in South Boston.

Slick Restaurants and Cheap Eats

Eating in Boston can break the bank quickly. Luckily, there are still many backpacker-friendly eateries to be found:

• Kelly’s Roast Beef : Aside from their iconic roast beef sandwiches that come in just under $10, you can also taste some delicious lobster rolls, New England clam chowder, and even fried scallops without breaking the bank.
• Anna’s Taqueria : A neighborhood staple since 1995, you can find many of Anna’s delicious Mexican menu items for less than $10.
• Sullivan’s : Love hotdogs? Even if you don’t–you can’t pass up this famous Sullivan’s staple which also specializes in Boston seafood favorites.
• Bánh Mì Ba Le : For the freshest Vietnamese in the city at amazing prices, grab a banh mi sandwich from this famous no-frills shop in Dorchester.
• Ernesto’s Pizza : For 30 years, hungry Bostonians have flocked to Ernesto’s–located in the famous North End–for its gigantic pizza slices fit for all budgets!
• Ho Yuen Bakery : For authentic and delicious Chinese food at Southeast Asia prices, look no further than Ho Yuen Bakery, where you can’t leave without trying one of their buns.

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Day Trips from Boston

Want to get out of the city? Visit one of these places near Boston for a chance to stretch your legs and experience some of New England’s best scenery.

• Cape Cod – The iconic Cape is Boston’s idea of a vacation. Famous for its endless beaches, charming towns, and historic lighthouses, Cape Cod has become the poster child for the New England coast. Lots of people travel to the Cape in the summer and spend an extended period of time here, either for work or play.
• Salem – This historical town was made famous by its gruesome Witch Trials. Anyone who has had any interest in New England history, or the occult for that matter, ends up visiting this town. Contrary to its grim reputation, Salem is actually a fairly affluent place these days.
• Walden Pond/Concord – Boston and the surrounding countryside were the stomping grounds for one of the greatest American intellectuals: Henry David Thoreau. Walden Pond, the setting for Thoreau’s revolutionary Walden novel, is located not too far away from the city itself. Visiting Walden in addition to the nearby historical Concord makes for an excellent day trip from Boston .
• Portland, Maine – The charmingly unassuming Portland, Maine is a mere 2-hour drive away from Boston and makes for a great road trip. Spend the day exploring the rugged coastline between Massachusetts and Maine, hitting up as many beaches as you can. Arrive in Portland and then grab a fresh lobster at the Old Port with a nice hearty beer.
• Rhode Island – Providence and the rest of Rhode Island are like New England condensed in one state. Here, you’ll find all of the staples of the region including coastal villages, brilliant fall foliage, and tons of history. This is one of the best places to visit near Boston.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Boston

Luckily–it’s easy to get off the beaten path in Boston! Most tourists just head to the same few places, so if you’re looking for something different, look no further. From the lush Arnold Arboretum at Harvard to the interesting Castle Island, Boston has a lot to offer that you might miss without a lot of time or quality research.

Due to its pedestrian-friendly nature, Boston is a place you can simply set out to explore and see where you end up! This is my favorite way to get acquainted with a new city, and can surely lead to some unexpected encounters.

Boston also has plenty of cool day and weekend trip options to consider. Cape Cod is definitely worth the drive, especially if you happen to be in the area on a weekday when it tends to be less crowded.

You’ve got some questions before traveling to Boston, and I’ve got answers! Here are some FAQs to know before you go.

Is Boston safe?

Yup! Boston is easily one of the safest cities in the US. General theft and major violence are rare, but you should still be cautious with your belongings, especially at night. And don’t call Tom Brady a pussy unless you want a fight.

What is there to do in Boston?

Boston is a city that has something for everyone, and in a compact area at that! Visit some of the many historical sights, try some seafood, explore Cambridge, or catch a Boston Red Sox game at Fenway Park. There’s all this and more in this small American city.

What are the best places to stay in Boston?

The best places to stay in Boston include Back Bay, Downtown, and the South End, though there are numerous other great neighborhoods to choose from. Airbnb is a great choice for a cozier Boston stay.

Is weed legal in Boston?

Yes! In Boston–or anywhere in Massachusetts for that matter–anyone 21 or older can purchase marijuana from a dispensary for recreational use.

What food is Boston known for?

Boston is best known for its Boston baked beans. It also has some killer seafood–don’t miss your chance to try some iconic New England clam chowder and lobster rolls.

Boston is an incredibly unique city. From the distinct Boston accent to its plethora of lobster rolls, Boston has the rare ability to make you feel like you’re in a town while strolling about a state capital. Those who have gotten acquainted with it know the small city is easily one of the coolest places in the US–hands down.

And now that you’re done with the best Boston travel guide, I hope you yourself are hella’ excited for your upcoming adventure in Beantown!

Be sure to hit up those Boston hotspots, and if you can swing it, there’s no better way to experience Boston culture than by watching a game at Fenway Stadium.

But do take the time to get off the beaten path a bit too and see Boston beyond its famous locales. Aim to get lost, or take one of the many epic day trips. Regardless of what you plan to do on your vaction in Boston, you’re absolutely in for a grand time.

Now, what are you waiting for? Book that hotel and ready for your Boston trip!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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The 17 Best Things to Do in Boston

By Todd Plummer and Paul Rubio

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

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

Read our complete Boston travel guide here .

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

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Arrow

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

New England Aquarium Arrow

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

High Street Place Arrow

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

Public Garden Arrow

Bostonians may breeze through the Public Garden to get from one side of town to the other, but there's plenty to linger over in this city-center oasis. The lagoon, which wanders almost the entire length of the garden, is where the famed Swan Boats have been peddled for over a century; and the flowers are beyond vivid. The Commonwealth Avenue entrance serves as the park’s most enchanting introduction, where a statue of George Washington comes flanked by flowers at the gate. In this pleasurable moment, remember that Victorian Bostonians found this park to be offensively bright. My, how times have changed.

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Boston Public Library Arrow

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

Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University Arrow

A gorgeous 281-acre green space within Boston, Arnold Arboretum of  Harvard University is the oldest public arboretum in North America (c. 1872) and the highlight of Frederick Law Olmsted's famed  Emerald Necklace series of green space in the city. Prolific biking and walking trails zigzag past more than 16,000 accessioned plants, many meticulously marked with signs. The natural splendor is a feast for the eyes, which are able to spot the sheer diversity of trees and plants at every turn. QR-coded signs and the arboretum’s easy-to-use  Expeditions app make it possible to dig deep into the environment.

The Freedom Trail Arrow

The Freedom Trail starts at the  Boston Common , the oldest public park in the United States, following a red brick path lined with 16 historic landmarks, which paint a picture of Boston’s revolutionary history. Although tourists flock to the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, this pedestrian path also coincides with day-to-day rush of downtown Boston. You’ll see revolutionary sites in a modern setting and walk alongside commuters and after-school kids. If you’re short on time, prioritize the North End section of the trail, home to landmarks like the  Paul Revere House , Old North Church, and Copp’s Hill Burial Ground, in a historic neighborhood that’s known as Boston’s Little Italy. If you want to go deeper, find all the hidden Freedom Trail spots locals love to visit here.

Charles Street Arrow

Beacon Hill, one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, is home to some of the finest examples of Federal-style brick row houses in the country, and Charles Street is the perfect launching point from which to explore it all. Tiny sidewalks, gaslit corners, and Instagrammable charm await on this busy thoroughfare, which starts by the Massachusetts General Hospital campus and concludes on the Boston Common. Charles Street has an independent bent that locals love to support. Come here for contemporary accessories at December Thieves, mouthwatering truffles at Beacon Hill Chocolates, custom stationery at Gus + Ruby Letterpress, and “this might have belonged to a Kennedy” antiques at Upstairs Downstairs Home. And if you’re a book lover (or bookstore lover), don’t leave town without visiting Beacon Hill Books & Cafe , a stunning townhome-turned-bookshop that’s restoring this city’s faith in the importance of independent booksellers.

Lookout Rooftop Arrow

With a deserved reputation as Boston's premiere rooftop bar, Lookout often reaches capacity with the city's work-hard, play-hard young professional crowd (Reservations are required these days; no walk-ins). For most, Lookout isn't a novelty—it's a mainstay—though you may find the occasional bridge-and-tunnel-type folks later on weekends. The crowd definitely likes a solid cocktail but they're here for the views and highly social atmosphere. In a city that skews historic and can feel sometimes like a  college town, The Lookout Rooftop provides big-city appeal with a cool crowd, awesome skyline views, and strong drinks. It's a place to hang out with friends and just have some boozy fun.

Fenway Park Arrow

What’s Boston without Fenway Park? America’s “Most Beloved Ballpark” isn’t just a stadium–it’s a piece of living history. It’s the home of the Red Sox, who play there each year from late March through October, but it’s also known for its popular summer concert series, and its fascinating behind-the-scenes tours offered in the off-season. Sure, there are parts of Fenway’s history that aren’t exactly worth celebrating–the Red Sox remained segregated longer than any other MLB team, and it wasn’t until Lady Gaga’s Joanne World Tour came in 2017 that a woman headlined a concert there–but at the end of the day, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Boston. When you’re in the cheap seats, having paid way too much for a beer and a hot dog and the crowd starts singing “Sweet Caroline,” it’s clear there’s a sense of history here that even non-sports lovers can get excited about.

Charles River Esplanade Arrow

If you’re exploring Boston for the day, take a walk up through Back Bay from Massachusetts Avenue and loop back down along the Esplanade or head over the Harvard Bridge to Cambridge (Ironically, the Harvard Bridge ends at M.I.T.). It's a narrow paradise along both sides of the Charles River, stretching for several miles between the Longfellow Bridge to the west and the Boston University bridge to the east. More than 1,500 trees line the walkway (or runway, if it's marathon-training season), while playgrounds, ponds, and gardens bring a lyrical quality to this meandering landscape. It's best viewed in autumn, when the Esplanade shows its true colors. The Hatch Shell is a performance space that serves as home base for all things at the Esplanade including the famous performance by the  Boston Pops on the Fourth of July.

South End Arrow

This neighborhood has the kind of charm that'll make you move to Boston. There are so many historic plaques that show off the neighborhood's rich past and an abundance of hidden art galleries and boutiques that will keep you searching for more. Design aficionados should definitely come here on Sundays, when you can visit SoWa Open Market (short for South of Washington Street) for food trucks and entertainment as well as SoWa Vintage Market and the SoWa Farmer's Market, and a number of one-of-a-kind boutiques and design showrooms. Plus, a foodie's trip to Boston isn't complete without a stop here casual bistros and oyster-slinging wine bars: Don't miss Black Lamb , an elevated American brasserie that impresses with a sensational raw options and sublime lobster rolls. Late night, stop by Beehive or Wally's Cafe for lively local jazz sets in casual bar settings. And for one of Boston's best dive bars (and best burgers) where everybody knows your name, hit cozy wood-paneled DeLux Cafe on cobblestoned Chandler Street.

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Arrow

The MFA’s vast collection of art and artifacts is exceptional by any standard. The museum houses one of the best collections of Korean art outside the Korean peninsula, the only permanent exhibition space for ancient coins in the United States, one of the world’s largest holdings of ancient Egyptian treasures, and a comprehensive collection of work by John Singer Sargent. The museum’s claims to fame are so varied, in fact, you could spend weeks documenting its exceptionality. Whatever you take in during your visit, don’t miss the Claude Monet gallery in the European Wing, with one of the greatest caches of the Impressionist’s work outside of France, or the impressive Arts of Islamic Cultures Gallery, whose 2019 reinstallation was developed in collaboration with local Muslim groups. All said and done, the MFA is the crown jewel of  Boston's art scene .

Seaport District Arrow

Boston Seaport is one of the city's most talked-about neighborhoods—and for good reason. The former no-man's land, just over the bridge from Downtown, has quickly evolved into a center of innovation, mixed-use development, and modern culture, attracting prominent companies like Amazon, big names in biotech, and major developers competing to erect Boston’s priciest, sky-scraping condos. A young, ambitious work force has followed, as have some great businesses—including the  Institute of Contemporary Art ,  Legal Harborside 's rooftop bar, Wood Hills Pier 4 for farm-to-table cuisine, darts bar Flight Club, the Lookout Rooftop, and Mediterranean hotspot  Committee.

The Barking Crab Arrow

The last vestige of the old Seaport—a once rough-around-the edges neighborhood that’s now filled with glass skyscrapers, corporate types, and Lululemon stores—this indoor-outdoor seafood institution fills with diners and happy hour revelers of all stripes, from construction workers to management consultants. The waterfront destination feels like a coastal summer clam shack with its tented roof and picnic tables, and, indeed, it got its start as a seasonal restaurant back in 1994. Now, it includes a more permanent wing with an old time-y tavern feel, but the seaside, atmosphere persists throughout. That vibe pairs perfectly with the menu of seafood platters; raw bar favorites; fried scallops, shrimp, and clams; fish sandwiches; entrees; and lobster in all forms, including boiled, grilled, roasted, and rolled.

Brattle Book Shop Arrow

In the heart of Boston’s downtown, carts and shelves of $1, $3, and $5 books fill an alley off of West Street. The seller: Brattle Bookshop, a store that encompasses three floors of used books, the top one filled with rare collectibles. Its purveyor, Ken Gloss, is a regular appraiser on the PBS’ Antiques Roadshow and has gained modest fame among antiquers and public-television addicts.  Independent bookshops attract an eclectic mix of characters, and that’s as much a part of the experience as the books themselves. Curmudgeonly regulars, bespectacled students, and travelers who value a good read all make Brattle Bookshop an institution. Even the famously reclusive J.D. Salinger stopped here once.

Harvard Square Arrow

Take an afternoon and evening to sink into this corner of Cambridge, and you’ll have discovered a city unto itself. You certainly don’t have to be a student to savor this neighborhood. There are  art and  natural history museums on Harvard’s campus, quirky boutiques for souvenirs like Black Ink, Grolier Poetry Book Shop (the oldest in the country, c. 1927), and local-loved, world-class restaurants like  Alden & Harlow . Tourists turn out in droves to walk the famous Harvard Yard, and despite the crowds it's worth taking a genuine wander.

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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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More From Forbes

Boston’s most romantic hotels.

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Have a great time at Boston’s grande dame.

Strolling hand-in-hand through the Public Garden, sharing a candle-lit dinner at an Italian restaurant in the North End, gazing at historic houses on cobblestone streets in Beacon Hill — all of these Boston activities ring with a romantic undertone when you’re with your loved one. And when there is an amorous air, the right hotel is an excellent addition.

The following properties all understand the importance of a romantic getaway, which is why they’re committed to delivering luxurious touches and lovely details to ensure every stay is a memorable one for couples.

Fairmont Copley Plaza

Walk through the doors of this iconic Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Back Bay hotel and you’ll instantly see why so many special events, from weddings to proms, are held here. With its gorgeous ornate architecture, top-notch service and resident canine ambassador, Fairmont Copley Plaza is a special place.

Its ideal Copley Square location, with Trinity Church , the John Hancock building and the Boston Public Library just outside, and Newbury Street a block away, means the city is at your feet. Book a studio suite, which looks out over the interior courtyard, or the 1,600-square-foot presidential suite, designed to mirror a traditional local townhome, for extra space and amenities.

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Couples should do their best to secure the cozy two-person loveseat at the hotel’s Oak Long Bar + Kitchen and toast with the bar’s legendary martini or another signature cocktail. Shareable appetizers include warm hearth-baked bread with honey butter, Georges Bank scallops or shishito peppers. For a late-night sweet treat, the molten chocolate cake is a great call.

Four Seasons Boston’s indoor pool offers incredible city views.

Four Seasons Hotel Boston

This Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star property couldn’t be in a more romantic spot. Many of its guest rooms overlook the Boston Public Garden, the oldest botanical garden in America and a glorious attraction when in bloom. Book a garden-view room or an upper-floor suite to enjoy the outstanding vistas of the verdant landscape or the iconic swan boats floating on the pond.

The Four Seasons also features an indoor heated pool and whirlpool with equally impressive views. The hotel’s Back Bay location is close to all the city’s charms, from chic Newbury Street, packed with shops and restaurants, to the Theatre District, where you can catch the latest show, and alluring Beacon Hill, with even more cafés and trendy bars .

If the weather cooperates, have a drink at The Sanctuary , the hotel’s secluded alfresco space, where you place your order in a whimsical phone booth. Or stay inside for a nightcap at the inviting lobby restaurant and bar Coterie .

Beacon Hill’s boutique beauty.

Four-Star XV Beacon feels more like a historic home than a boutique hotel, making it tempting never to leave the property. When it comes to setting the mood, the accommodations do most of the work, coming adorned with fresh flowers and gas fireplaces. Book a room with a Jacuzzi and order a CBD bath bomb for an extra romantic touch.

While plenty of bars and restaurants are within walking distance, you may want to enjoy dinner at the hotel’s Forbes Travel Guide Recommended modern steakhouse, Mooo . But if you do decide to venture out, complimentary in-town transport in a Lexus is available.

At some point during your stay, head up to the rooftop terrace to enjoy views of Beacon Hill and the Charles River. You can bring a bottle of bubbly to toast the sunset and set the stage for a luxurious liaison.

Eliot Hotel

The historic 95-room Eliot Hotel, located on Commonwealth Avenue in the Back Bay, radiates an Old World vibe. While hotel packages often change, The Eliot always seems to have at least one promotion with a romance theme, which shows it notices its clientele’s needs. For example, the Romance Awaits deal includes champagne, chocolate-dipped strawberries, breakfast for two, overnight valet parking, a late checkout and a guaranteed reservation at chef Ken Oringer’s popular UNI Restaurant , a normally impossible table to snag. Its Japanese izakaya dinner menu features global street food-inspired small plates, makimono, nigiri and sashimi, craft cocktails and a creative sake menu.

Additionally, the Eliot Hotel is mere steps away from all the offerings of the Back Bay, with restaurants, attractions, shops and bars within easy walking distance. The highly knowledgeable and helpful staff will happily advise you on where to go and what to see, assist with tickets and reservations and make you and your partner feel like treasured guests.

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US tourists face 12 years in prison for accidentally bringing ammo to Caribbean island

The u.s. state department is warning travelers about strict new laws in turks and caicos islands that carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years for bringing guns or ammunition to the island: "if you bring a firearm or ammunition into tci, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody", by leslie gaydos • published april 23, 2024 • updated on april 25, 2024 at 8:56 pm.

An Oklahoma woman was reunited Tuesday with her young children after being detained for almost two weeks in Turks and Caicos Islands for allegedly violating their strict guns and ammunition law. Her husband is being held in the British Overseas Territory near the Bahamas.

Ryan and Valerie Watson, who live in Oklahoma, left for Turks and Caicos Islands on April 7 to celebrate the 40th birthdays of Ryan and two friends. When they went through security for their return flight, their carry-on was flagged and searched and officials found a Ziploc bag of bullets.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," said Ryan, "and I recognized them and I thought, oh man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there."

The two shared their story virtually with NBC10 Boston last week before their first court hearing. They were stuck on the island, their passports confiscated, separated from their young son and daughter.

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"When I heard that, I immediately was terrified because I was like, we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home. And this is such an innocent mistake that we didn't even know we weren't– we didn't even know it was there. So yeah, my immediate thought was our kids and them being, you know, parentless for, for that long," Valerie said.

The Watsons were questioned and charged with possession of ammunition. In 2022, Turks and Caicos passed an amendment with stiffer penalties for possession of weapons or ammunition, increasing the mandatory minimum prison sentence to 12 years.

This is something that we may never recover from Ryan Watson, American tourist charged with possession of ammunition in Turks and Caicos Islands

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TSA reviews airport security after Turks and Caicos ammo arrests

Last September, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel alert warning Americans after a tourist from Indiana got an eight-month prison sentence for possession of ammunition.

The alert says: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest.

"We strongly encourage you to carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing for TCI. If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the alert continued.

Bryan Hagerich was detained by Turks and Caicos authorities after a family vacation in February when hunting ammunition was found in his luggage before he boarded a flight home. He said the ammunition was found in a bag he frequently used for weekend hunting trips.

"I've been here for almost 70 days now after posting bail. I've been out, right now just waiting to go to the hearing. That's where my case would be heard, then following that would be sentencing," Hagerich said.

Hagerich, who played baseball professionally and was once drafted by the Florida Marlins, lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two young kids. He spent eight days in prison before posting bail and is awaiting a May 3 court hearing.

"It's incredibly scary. You know, you just don't know what the next day may bring. You know, what path this may take. You know, you're in a completely different culture, a different country by yourself. You know, it's certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It's been the worst 70 days of my life," Hagerich said.

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He and the Watsons are also dealing with the financial strain of paying for an extended stay and being away from their jobs.

"We've already talked, and we're like, what if, you know, what if we lose our house? Which, when we moved to Oklahoma, we built a home that we thought was our forever home. And to think that this is going to ruin us..." said an emotional Valerie.

"This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan said.

"I'm just very anxious, eager to get home to my family," said Hagerich. "This has been too long. You know, it's just had so much irreparable harm to my family, that, you know, I just can't continue to see them struggle anymore. I just want to hug my family and start this healing process together."

After their hearing yesterday, Ryan was sent to jail; he was granted bail at a hearing on Wednesday. Charges were dropped for Valerie on Monday and she is now back in Oklahoma with her two children.

The judges in Turks and Caicos Islands are able to make exceptions to the mandatory minimum sentence if they determine there are "exceptional circumstances" in a case.

NBC10 Boston reached out to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands' tourism bureau about the Watsons' situation and have not heard back. We contacted the State Department and a spokesperson told NBC10 Boston they are aware of the arrest of U.S. citizens in Turks and Caicos and that, "The U.S. Department of State and our embassies and consulates abroad have no greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas."

The spokesperson added, "When a U.S. citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance. In a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws, even if they differ from those in the United States… As our security alert from September 22, 2023 states, in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted. TCI authorities strictly enforce all firearms related laws. The penalty for traveling to TCI with a firearm, ammunition, or other weapon is a minimum custodial sentence of twelve (12) years. If a traveler brings a firearm or ammunition into TCI, the U.S. Department of State will not be able to secure their release from custody. Travelers are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures."

The State Department said they are unable to provide the number of U.S. citizens charged with weapon/ammunition possession since the department is unable to track local arrests.

But law enforcement officials in Turks and Caicos Islands acknowledged Wednesday in a statement that three Americans are out on bail in such cases.

"The Firearms Ordinance applies to all persons present within the Turks and Caicos Islands regardless of status or origin," read the statement from the offices of the attorney general and the director of public prosecution.

pic.twitter.com/Kz31Ng5wJk — TCIG Communications Directorate (@TCIG_Press) April 24, 2024

Also Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a new statement urging all travelers to take care looking for weapons or ammunition when leaving the U.S.

" Carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing from the United States ," the warning says in bold, going on to note that enforcement in Turks and Caicos Islands is strict, legally declared weapons aren't allowed in the territory and TSA screening may not turn up ammunition in baggage on the way out of the country.

" If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the statement said.

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Men’s Tennis Team on a Quest for First Patriot League Title

Tournament top-seed terriers travel to west point for four-day tournament this weekend.

Members of the BU men’s tennis team preparing to go up against Bentley on February 11. Photos by Michael Last/BU Athletics

Charles Moore (COM’24)

Last year, the Boston University men’s tennis team reached its first-ever Patriot League championship match, but fell 4-0 to then top-seeded Navy. This year, the Terriers have posted a perfect 6-0 record in conference play and are the No. 1 seed entering this weekend’s four-day conference tournament at Army West Point’s Malek Tennis Center in West Point, N.Y.

The Terriers begin play in the tournament quarterfinal on Friday. Each round will stage nine possible matches. Three doubles matches are played first, with the school that wins two of three clinching the round’s first point. Then, a possible six singles matches will be played—each singles match is worth one additional point. The school earning four total points will win the matchday.

Dejan Stankovic (Wheelock’08,’11,’15), men’s tennis head coach, says he is confident about the program’s chances of capturing its first-ever Patriot League title. 

“I know we’re really good,” Stankovic says. “For other teams to challenge us, they’re going to have to be at their best. I am definitely not underestimating the competition, but I think we’re playing really well, so I’m feeling pretty good going into this tournament.” 

Last year’s third-place regular season finish was the first top-3 Patriot League finish for the BU men’s tennis program since 2016, earning them their first-ever PL championship match appearance. The Terriers have not won a conference championship since 1996, when they played in the America East conference. 

“We haven’t won a conference tournament in decades,” Stankovic says. “So maybe there’s some type of a target on our back, but [we have] more of a sense that we’ve got a really good shot.” 

Cocaptain Owen Voigt (Questrom’24) says he’s seen the program improve from a 3-18 record in 2021 to this year’s 18-7 finish. He says that while the roster hasn’t changed significantly during his four years at BU, the team’s confidence has more than doubled. 

“We’ve had pretty much the same guys for the past three years,” Voigt says. I think our confidence in ourselves and our teammates has grown a lot. We all believe in each other. I am the oldest guy on the team, and I’ve seen it all—I haven’t been on a team where it was like this before, where we all just believe in ourselves. Every single match that we play, we know that we are the better players.” 

Headlining the Terriers best finish during their Patriot League tenure is six-time PL Player of the Week Corey Craig (CAS’26). The reigning PL Rookie of the Year went undefeated in his four most recent matches, against Lehigh on April 12 and Army-West Point on April 14. 

Although Craig has set the Patriot League record for weekly accolades in a single season, Voigt and Stankovic agree that the team’s biggest asset has been its willingness to come together—a rarity in such an individual sport as tennis. 

“It can be pretty difficult to get a group of 8 to 10 individuals to work together towards one goal, but I’ve never seen a team where we’re as together as we are on this team,” Voigt says. “What’s different is that we all believe in each other. I tell the guys, and what our coaches say is: everybody can bring value during a tennis match, no matter if you have a racket in your hands or not.” 

Stankovic lauds his team, but reserves special commendation for cocaptain Voigt. 

“Owen is one of those guys that just gets the team going,” the coach says. “He’s so selfless—he’ll do anything for the team to win. And I feel like you can’t find a player like that too often. So the culture of our team is a lot better because we have a captain who demonstrates that and walks the walk every single day.” 

Voigt says he’s focused on getting his teammates prepped for a successful weekend in West Point. “I’m just just trying to get everybody excited,” he says. “This year, we have a target on our back, which we haven’t had in the past couple of years. Being the number one seed and beating all of these top teams already this season and going to the tournament undefeated, everybody wants another shot at us. So we have to be ready for other teams to punch us back. 

“But I think that we will be able to handle any team that comes our way. So I’m just getting everybody to be super confident in themselves and making sure that we’ll be able to work together over this next week to bring it home.”

The Boston University men’s tennis team will begin play in the 2024 Patriot League Championship Tournament on Friday, April 26, at Army West Point’s Malek Tennis Center in West Point, N.Y. Live statistics will be posted on goterriers.com and updates will be posted live via Twitter @BUGameDay and @TerrierTennis.

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Charles Moore (COM’24) is pursuing a degree in journalism with a minor in history. He works in the Worcester Red Sox front office and is the Head Delegate for BU's competitive Model United Nations Team. Charles is from Wayland, MA., and has seen a home game of all 30 Major League Baseball teams. He can be reached at [email protected]. Profile

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Katharine McPhee on gummy bears, Kris Jenner, and what travel has taught her about perspective

We caught up with the singer, songwriter, and actress to talk about all things travel..

Singer, songwriter, and actress Katharine McPhee , who in 2006 was runner-up on the fifth season of “American Idol,” has toured the world extensively in the past nearly two decades. So when asked about where she would like to travel most, she replied — emphatically — “straight to my bed and home and not leave for a week.” But for now, she is on a national tour with her husband, composer and music producer/industry executive David Foster, that makes stops at the Providence Performing Arts Center on May 12, The Cabot in Beverly on May 14, and The Music Hall in Portsmouth, N.H., on May 15. “I haven’t really toured in this part of the country too much, so I am looking forward to it,” she said in a recent phone call. “I love being in different parts of the country and seeing how different the audiences are — and often being surprised.” McPhee, 40, said that while there are “challenging” aspects to being on tour with one’s spouse, she and Foster, 74, with whom she shares a 3-year-old son, Rennie, “get on great.” Having said that, she added that coming off of the “An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee” tour, they both enjoy their “down time … enjoying basic things like cooking a meal and watching TV together.” McPhee, who attended the Boston Conservatory (now Boston Conservatory at Berklee) for three semesters and who in 2018 made her Broadway debut starring as Jenna in the musical “Waitress,” said that the current show features a variety of musical genres, a fair amount of storytelling, and even some occasional bickering. “It’s a pretty spontaneous evening,” she said. “And it’s a really good time.” We caught up with the Los Angeles native, who still calls LA home, to talk about all things travel.

If you could travel anywhere right now, where would you go? I travel so much these days that I would travel straight to my bed and home and not leave for a week.

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Do you prefer booking trips through a travel agent or on your own? I prefer booking through a travel agent. It’s very overwhelming looking at flights.

Thoughts on an “unplugged” vacation? It’s a good idea in theory, I guess. But I’ve never tried it. I like to know what’s happening in the world and with my loved ones.

What has been your worst vacation experience? A couple years ago on Christmas Day, traveling to Hawaii with my husband, 10-month-old, my mom, and [a] friend, the flight was delayed — but they had already put everyone on the bus to go to a different terminal and then ended up not having an actual gate so they put us on this bus and went clear across to the other side to go to a terminal where we had to stand on the tarmac for more than an hour. It was very cold and there were no bathrooms, no food … not how we wanted to spend Christmas. But we were able to find some humor in it and laugh a bit. Oh, and then once we did get on a flight and finally got Rennie to sleep, David got up to get something out of the overhead compartment, and when he closed it, he woke up our son. He was awake for the rest of the flight.

What is your favorite childhood travel memory? Going skiing with my mom, dad, and sister. Skiing takes a lot of effort — especially with kids. But it’s such a gift to have something to do all together. Having a child now I appreciate it so much more. We would mostly go to Mammoth and make a real road trip out of it. I remember stopping in a town called Bishop and always going to the same bakery every time. Great memories.

Do you vacation to relax, to learn, or for the adventure of it all? Typically, I vacation to relax and see and experience some culture and eat great food.

What book do you plan on bringing with you to read on your next vacation? ”Elon Musk,” a biography written by Walter Isaacson. I’m a fan of his [Isaacson’s] storytelling in previous biographies.

If you could travel with one famous person/celebrity, who would it be? Kris Jenner. She seems like a blast.

What is the best gift to give a traveler? RIMOWA lightweight suitcases. They are the best.

What is your go-to snack for a flight or a road trip? Not specific for me. I like all the fun junk like gummy bears and chips.

What is the coolest souvenir you’ve picked up on a vacation? Any piece of jewelry I love because it reminds of me where I was.

What is your favorite app/website for travel? Abercrombie & Kent.

What has travel taught you? That your worries and life are so small in comparison to the whole world. Your life holds the same value as anyone else’s, so don’t sweat the small stuff. And you can also go somewhere and start over if you wanted.

What is your best travel tip? Pack light. Plan out your looks for each day.

Juliet Pennington can be reached at [email protected] .