Fun Things to Do Around Boston

The Freedom Trail stands as Boston's most iconic historical experience. This 2.5-mile red-brick path connects 16 nationally significant historic sites that tell the story of the American Revolution and the birth of a nation.

• Visit the Massachusetts State House with its distinctive gold dome.
• Explore the Old North Church, famous for "One if by land, two if by sea."
• Pay respects at the Granary Burying Ground, resting place of Paul Revere and John Hancock.
• Experience living history at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.

Fenway Park is one of the most historic and beloved baseball stadiums in America. Home to the Boston Red Sox since 1912, this iconic venue offers a quintessential Boston experience for sports fans and history enthusiasts alike.

• Take a guided tour of the historic ballpark and see the Green Monster up close.
• Catch a Red Sox game during baseball season for an unforgettable atmosphere.
• Visit the Red Sox Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about team legends.
• Enjoy the lively pre-game atmosphere around Lansdowne Street.

Just a short ferry ride from downtown, the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park offers a surprising wilderness retreat from city life. This collection of 34 islands and peninsulas provides outdoor adventures and historical exploration.

• Explore Georges Island and the Civil War-era Fort Warren.
• Enjoy swimming and sandy beaches on Spectacle Island.
• Camp overnight on Lovells or Peddocks Island for a unique experience.
• Discover tide pools, hiking trails, and panoramic views of the Boston skyline.

The Museum of Fine Arts Boston is one of the most comprehensive art museums in the world, housing nearly 500,000 works of art. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, it offers an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

• Marvel at one of America's finest collections of Impressionist paintings.
• View the extensive collection of Asian art spanning 6,000 years.
• Explore the Art of the Americas Wing featuring Revolutionary-era portraits.
• Check the calendar for special exhibitions and evening events.

Boston tourism extends beyond city limits to nearby Cambridge, home to prestigious Harvard University. This renowned Ivy League institution offers beautiful architecture, museums, and a vibrant atmosphere that's worth experiencing.

• Families: Join a student-led tour of Harvard Yard and touch the famous John Harvard statue.
• Culture enthusiasts: Visit the Harvard Art Museums and the unique collection at the Harvard Museum of Natural History.
• Book lovers: Browse the independent bookstores of Harvard Square and enjoy the local cafes.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace combines historic architecture with modern shopping and dining. This bustling marketplace consists of four buildings—Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market—offering a wide range of things to do in Boston for shoppers and foodies.

• Sample local cuisine at the food stalls of Quincy Market's Colonnade.
• Shop for unique souvenirs and gifts from local artisans and national retailers.
• Enjoy street performers and live entertainment throughout the marketplace.

The New England Aquarium is a premier marine education center and a favorite among Boston's family attractions. Located on the waterfront, it offers fun activities in Boston for visitors of all ages who want to learn about ocean conservation and marine life.

• Marvel at the four-story Giant Ocean Tank, home to a vibrant Caribbean coral reef.
• Visit the playful penguins at the Antarctic penguin colony exhibit.
• Touch rays and sharks at the interactive touch tank experiences.

The Boston Public Garden, established in 1837, was the first public botanical garden in America. This Victorian-style garden offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city with meticulously maintained flowerbeds, mature trees, and a serene lagoon.

• Take a ride on the iconic Swan Boats, operating since 1877.
• Visit the famous "Make Way for Ducklings" statue, inspired by the beloved children's book.
• Enjoy seasonal displays of tulips in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

Boston tourism isn't complete without visiting the North End, the city's oldest residential neighborhood and a hub of Italian-American culture. The narrow, winding streets are lined with Italian restaurants, bakeries, and cafes that transport visitors to old-world Europe.

• Sample authentic Italian cuisine at the neighborhood's renowned restaurants.
• Try cannoli from Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry and join the friendly debate over which is best.
• Attend seasonal festivals like Saint Anthony's Feast in August.

Boston's maritime heritage comes alive through various harbor cruises that offer unique perspectives of the city skyline and coastal landmarks. From historical sightseeing tours to whale watching adventures, these water-based activities provide memorable experiences.

• Join a whale watching expedition to spot humpback, finback, and minke whales in the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary.
• Take a historical harbor cruise to learn about Boston's maritime history.
• Enjoy sunset or dinner cruises for romantic evening experiences.

Beacon Hill is Boston's most picturesque neighborhood, characterized by narrow gas-lit streets, brick sidewalks, and Federal-style rowhouses. This National Historic District offers a glimpse into 19th-century Boston and provides countless photo opportunities.

• Stroll down Acorn Street, often called the most photographed street in America.
• Explore Charles Street's antique shops, boutiques, and charming cafes.
• Visit Louisburg Square, an exclusive residential enclave that represents the height of Beacon Hill elegance.

The Boston Museum of Science offers more than 700 interactive exhibits that make learning about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics exciting for visitors of all ages. This world-class institution is one of the most popular family attractions in Boston.

• Experience a lightning show at the Theater of Electricity featuring the world's largest air-insulated Van de Graaff generator.
• Watch immersive films at the IMAX Dome theater or planetarium shows at the Charles Hayden Planetarium.
• Explore hands-on exhibits covering topics from dinosaurs to space exploration.

Boston's food scene reflects its coastal location, diverse immigrant history, and innovative spirit. Exploring the city's culinary landscape is one of the most delicious fun activities in Boston, offering everything from traditional New England fare to international cuisine.

• Sample fresh seafood at the historic Union Oyster House, America's oldest continuously operating restaurant.
• Try authentic Boston cream pie at its birthplace, the Omni Parker House Hotel.
• Explore the diverse food vendors at Boston Public Market and Time Out Market.