Boston is a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. From its iconic landmarks and world-class museums to its stunning natural surroundings and vibrant neighborhoods, there’s always something new to discover in this charming city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see in Boston that suit your interests and budget.
One of the challenges of visiting a popular tourist destination like Boston is dealing with crowds and long lines at popular attractions. It can be frustrating to spend valuable vacation time waiting in line or fighting for elbow room at a crowded attraction. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the best activities and things to do in Boston, with a focus on avoiding crowds and maximizing your time in the city. Our list includes a mix of lesser-known gems and must-see landmarks, all selected for their ability to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience without the hassle of crowds.
Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply a taste of local flavor, this guide will help you plan a trip to Boston that’s both enjoyable and efficient. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the most exciting and historic cities in the United States – and avoid the crowds while you’re at it.
This post includes affiliate links on which we could earn a commission.
Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops
Boston’s Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and see the sights that interest you most. This tour includes 14 stops at some of Boston’s most popular landmarks and neighborhoods, including the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and Beacon Hill. The trolley is an open-air vehicle, providing unobstructed views and a chance to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city as you travel.
One of the benefits of the Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is the flexibility it offers. You can choose to stay on the trolley for the entire loop, or hop off at any of the stops to explore on foot. This allows you to tailor your tour to your interests and schedule, and spend as much time as you like at each stop. The tour is also narrated by a local guide, providing interesting and informative commentary on the city’s history and culture as you ride. Overall, the Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is a convenient and enjoyable way to see the city and learn more about its history and attractions.
Boston Food & History North End Freedom Trail Walking Tour
The Boston Food & History North End Freedom Trail Walking Tour is a great way to experience the city’s rich history, culture, and cuisine all in one outing. This tour takes you through the North End neighborhood, home to some of Boston’s best restaurants, bakeries, and food markets. As you walk, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, with a focus on the Freedom Trail and the many landmarks and sites associated with it.
One of the benefits of the Boston Food & History North End Freedom Trail Walking Tour is that it combines two of the city’s most popular attractions – food and history – into a single, immersive experience. You’ll have the chance to taste some of the best food the city has to offer, while also learning about its past and present. The tour is led by a local guide who is knowledgeable about the city’s history and culture, and can provide interesting and informative commentary as you walk. Overall, this tour is a great way to experience the best of Boston’s history and food culture in a single outing.
Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark
A tour of historic Fenway Park is a must-do for any baseball fan visiting Boston. Fenway Park is America’s most beloved ballpark and the home of the Boston Red Sox, one of the most successful and storied teams in Major League Baseball. A tour of the park allows you to see behind the scenes and learn about the history and traditions of Fenway and the Red Sox.
One of the highlights of a tour of Fenway Park is the opportunity to visit some of the park’s most iconic areas, such as the Green Monster, the Pesky Pole, and the Red Sox dugout. You’ll also get to see some of the park’s historical artifacts and memorabilia, and learn about the team’s rich history and its many memorable moments. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who can provide interesting and informative commentary on the park and the team. Overall, a tour of Fenway Park is a must-do for any baseball fan visiting Boston and a great way to learn more about one of America’s most beloved ballparks.
Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour
A guided walking tour of the Harvard University campus is a great way to learn more about this prestigious institution and its rich history. Harvard is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and one of the most prestigious universities in the world. A tour of the campus allows you to see some of the university’s most iconic buildings and landmarks, and learn about its history and traditions.
One of the highlights of a Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour is the opportunity to visit some of the university’s historic buildings, such as Memorial Hall, University Hall, and Widener Library. You’ll also get to see some of the university’s beautiful green spaces, such as the Harvard Yard, and learn about the university’s many notable graduates and achievements. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who can provide interesting and informative commentary on the university and its history. Overall, a tour of the Harvard University campus is a great way to learn more about this prestigious institution and its rich history and traditions.
Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution
The Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with an Up-Close View of the USS Constitution is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn more about its history and culture. This cruise takes you around the harbor, providing breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and landmarks, including the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. You’ll also have the opportunity to see some of the city’s other historic landmarks, such as the Bunker Hill Monument and the Old North Church, as you sail around the harbor.
One of the highlights of the Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise is the opportunity to see the USS Constitution up close. This historic ship played a key role in the early history of the United States and is now a popular attraction in Boston. You’ll have the chance to see the ship from the water and learn more about its history and significance from your tour guide. The cruise also includes a narrated tour of the harbor, providing interesting and informative commentary on the city’s history and culture as you sail. Overall, the Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise is a great way to see the city from a new perspective and learn more about its rich history and culture.
Boston's Best Tours and Activities
In conclusion, Boston is a city with a wealth of activities and attractions to explore, from cultural experiences and outdoor adventures to iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of things to do in this vibrant and historic city. By choosing to visit some of the city’s lesser-known attractions and planning your trip with an eye towards avoiding crowds, you can make the most of your time in Boston and experience the city in a more authentic and enjoyable way. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the best of Boston – we hope our guide has helped you plan a trip that’s both enjoyable and efficient.