Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Boston! Whether you’re a history buff, a culture connoisseur, or a foodie, Boston has something for everyone. As a website that focuses on avoiding crowds, traveling smart, and getting the best value for your money, we’ve carefully curated a list of activities and attractions that will help you make the most out of your trip to this iconic city. From visiting historical landmarks to exploring the city’s vibrant culture and indulging in delicious cuisine, our guide has got you covered. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Boston without breaking the bank or getting caught in the crowds.
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The 10 Best Things to do in Boston
Walk the Freedom Trail: Take a historic journey through Boston’s past by following the 2.5-mile red brick trail that passes by 16 significant landmarks, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere House, and the USS Constitution Museum.
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts: One of the largest art museums in the country, the MFA features an extensive collection of artwork from around the world, including Egyptian artifacts, European paintings, and contemporary art.
Explore the Boston Public Library: Established in 1848, the BPL is one of the oldest and most beautiful public libraries in the country. Admire the stunning architecture and explore the extensive collection of books and manuscripts.
Catch a game at Fenway Park: Home to the Boston Red Sox since 1912, Fenway Park is a must-visit for any sports fan. Take a guided tour or catch a game to experience the excitement and energy of this iconic stadium.
Visit the New England Aquarium: Get up close and personal with marine life at the New England Aquarium. See penguins, sea turtles, and giant ocean tanks, and even touch a stingray at the touch tank.
Walk around Harvard University: Take a stroll through the historic and picturesque campus of one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Admire the beautiful architecture and soak in the academic atmosphere.
Sample the food at Quincy Market: Located in the heart of Boston, Quincy Market is a bustling marketplace offering a wide variety of delicious food options, from clam chowder and lobster rolls to pizza and cupcakes.
Learn about the history of the Boston Tea Party: Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum to learn about the famous protest that helped kickstart the American Revolution. Participate in a reenactment and even throw tea overboard!
Take a cruise on Boston Harbor: See Boston from a different perspective by taking a boat tour of Boston Harbor. Learn about the city’s history and enjoy stunning views of the Boston skyline.
Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: The former home of art collector and philanthropist Isabella Stewart Gardner, this museum features an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and tapestries.
Best Boston things to do away from the crowds
If you’re looking for things to do in Boston away from the crowds, you’re in luck. The city is full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are well worth checking out. Here are a few of the best Boston things to do away from the crowds:
Visit the Arnold Arboretum: Located in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood, the Arnold Arboretum is a 281-acre park that features a stunning collection of trees and plants from around the world. This hidden gem is a great place to relax, take a stroll, and enjoy nature without the crowds.
Explore the Boston Harbor Islands: While the Boston Harbor is a popular destination for tourists, the Boston Harbor Islands offer a quieter and more secluded experience. Take a ferry to one of the islands and enjoy hiking, swimming, and picnicking in a peaceful setting.
Stroll through the Public Garden: While the nearby Boston Common can get quite crowded, the adjacent Public Garden is a more tranquil and serene option. This beautiful park features stunning flowers, statues, and a charming swan boat ride.
Take a Tour of the Samuel Adams Brewery: Boston is known for its beer, and the Samuel Adams Brewery is one of the city’s most popular destinations. Instead of fighting the crowds at other breweries, take a tour of this smaller, less crowded option and enjoy some delicious beer.
Visit the USS Constitution Museum: Located in the Charlestown Navy Yard, the USS Constitution Museum is a fascinating destination that explores the history of the US Navy and the War of 1812. This smaller museum is often overlooked by tourists, but is well worth a visit for those interested in history.
These are just a few of the many great things to do in Boston away from the crowds. By exploring some of these hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations, you can experience the best of the city without the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful and relaxing trip.
Best Tours and Excursions to fully experience Boston
If you’re looking for the best way to fully experience Boston and all it has to offer, taking a tour or excursion can be an excellent option. Boston is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture, and a guided tour can help you make the most out of your visit. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best tours and excursions available in Boston, ranging from walking tours to boat cruises, so you can find the perfect option for your interests and budget.
The Boston walking tasting tour is a small-group walking tour that takes you through the North End, one of Boston’s most historic and charming neighborhoods. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll sample some of the most delicious bites that the North End has to offer, including classic New England clam chowder, handmade lobster ravioli, and traditional Italian cannoli. Here are some highlights of the tour:
- Discover a local’s eye view of Boston’s North End
- Enjoy enough bites and samples to add up to a hearty meal
- Learn insider stories and tips from your guide
- Try a variety of local foods, including chowder, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, and cannoli
- End the tour with a delicious Secret Dish, which will be revealed only on the day of the tour
- Small-group tour capped at 12 people for a personalized experience
Overall, the Boston walking tasting tour is an excellent way to experience the culinary delights of the North End and get a taste of the neighborhood’s rich Italian heritage. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to explore a new area of the city, this tour is sure to delight your taste buds and your senses.
The Boston Food and History North End Freedom Trail Walking Tour is the perfect way to combine two of the city’s most iconic attractions: delicious food and rich history. The tour starts in the North End, Boston’s historic Italian neighborhood, where you’ll sample some of the area’s best fresh bread, meats, and cheeses. Once you’re fortified, you’ll walk the Freedom Trail, where you’ll learn fascinating facts about American Revolution history from your knowledgeable guide. Here are some highlights of the tour:
- Enjoy a comprehensive view of Boston’s food, history, and highlights
- Sample delicious food, including fresh bread, meats, and cheeses
- Learn fascinating facts about American Revolution history from your guide
- See historic landmarks like the Old State House and the site of the Boston Massacre
- Visit the first bookstore, public school, and park in America
- End the tour with a surprise local treat with your guide
- Join a tour that is carbon neutral, operated by the world’s largest travel B Corp accredited company
Overall, the Boston Food and History North End Freedom Trail Walking Tour is a fantastic way to experience the best of the city’s food and history. Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, this tour is sure to delight your senses and give you a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich culture and heritage.
The Boston History & Highlights Walking Tour is a small-group walking tour that takes you through some of Boston’s most iconic historic sights. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore Boston Harbor, Custom House Tower, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, and many other highlights of the city. Here are some highlights of the tour:
- Learn the true story behind the Boston Massacre and discover the modern impact of Boston’s most iconic historic sights
- Explore some of the sights that are overlooked by many Boston visitors, including beautiful Beacon Hill and the Boston Public Garden
- Enjoy a surprise local treat with your guide
- Pass by the city’s first skyscraper, Custom House Tower, and enjoy stunning views from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market
- See and photograph the beautifully preserved iconic brick row houses that make up much of the city’s architecture
- Discover the first bookstore and site of the first public school in America
- Join a tour that is carbon neutral, operated by the world’s largest travel B Corp accredited company
Overall, the Boston History & Highlights Walking Tour is a great way to get a comprehensive view of the city’s most iconic landmarks and to learn about the rich history and culture of Boston. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this tour is sure to show you something new and fascinating about this historic city.
