Things to do in Boston
Discover the best attractions and experiences Boston has to offer
Historic Monuments
Boston's history is etched into its streets and monuments. Explore sturdy reminders of the city's colonial and revolutionary past.
Paul Revere House
A preserved 17th-century home once lived in by Paul Revere, offering a glimpse into colonial Boston life.
Old North Church
Historic church famous for its role in Paul Revere's ride, with atmospheric interiors and a heritage-filled setting.
Faneuil Hall
Historic marketplace and meeting hall that has welcomed generations of Boston pedestrians and traders.
Bunker Hill Monument
Monument commemorating the pivotal Battle of Bunker Hill with a towering obelisk and museum at the site.
Museums
Boston's world-class museums offer art, science, and history for every interest.
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
One of the largest art museums in the U.S., home to an encyclopedic collection spanning civilizations.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
A distinctive gallery in a Venetian-style courtyard housed in a grand mansion.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Interactive museum telling the story of the Boston Tea Party with recreated ships and artifacts.
New England Aquarium
Popular waterfront aquarium featuring engaging marine life exhibits and a big tank.
Religious Monuments
Boston's sacred spaces showcase architectural grandeur and long-standing community ties.
Trinity Church (Copley Square)
Gothic Revival church known for its striking exterior and historic congregation.
Park Street Church
Historic church on a leafy boulevard, noted for its 19th-century architecture and role in social movements.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross
Catholic cathedral with grand interiors and towering architecture in the South End.
National & Theme Parks
Boston sits at the crossroads of national parks and harbor landscapes that tell its story.
Boston National Historical Park
National Park Service unit preserving key Freedom Trail sites and historical narratives.
Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
A chain of islands and parks offering nature escapes, historic ruins, and harbor views.
Neighborhoods
Each Boston neighborhood offers its own vibe, architecture, and culinary discoveries.
Beacon Hill
Elegant brick streets, gas lamps, and Federal-style townhouses in a quintessential Boston enclave.
Back Bay
Chic shops, broad avenues, and iconic brownstone-block streets ideal for strolling.
North End
Boston's historic Italian neighborhood known for narrow lanes and delicious eateries.
Seaport District
Modern waterfront with contemporary dining, galleries, and scenic harbor views.
Free Things to Do
You can enjoy much of Boston without spending a dime—perfect for a relaxed itinerary.
Walk the Freedom Trail
A 2.5-mile route linking 16 historic sites through downtown Boston.
Boston Common
America's oldest public park, great for a stroll or a sunny picnic.
Boston Public Garden
Adjacent to Boston Common, renowned for its flowering displays and swan boats.
Charles River Esplanade
Riverside path offering scenic views, jogs, and sunset-watching opportunities.
Gastronomy
Boston's food scene blends seafood classics with multicultural flavors and famed markets.
Union Oyster House
Historic seafood restaurant serving classic oysters and chowder in a traditional setting.
Quincy Market / Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Historic marketplace with a wide array of eats, casual dining, and street performances.
Mike's Pastry
Iconic North End bakery famed for cannoli and pastry selections.
Regina Pizzeria (North End)
Long-running brick-oven pizzeria known for its classic slices and robust flavors.
Nightlife
From lively bars to intimate venues, Boston’s nightlife covers diverse tastes.
Beehive
South End jazz club and lively bar with live music and a cozy atmosphere.
Paradise Rock Club
Historic music venue on Commonwealth Avenue hosting bands and concerts.
Royale
Fashionable Theater District nightclub hosting live shows and DJs.
Entertainment
Boston's performing arts scene shines in its grand venues and touring productions.
Orpheum Theatre
Renowned historic venue hosting concerts, comedy, and touring shows.
Boston Opera House
Premier venue for Broadway productions and large-scale performances.
Wang Theatre
Spacious theatre within the Boch Center offering national touring productions.
Sports
Sports run deep in Boston, with legendary venues and a passionate fan base.
Fenway Park
Iconic home of the Boston Red Sox and a quintessential ballpark experience.
TD Garden
Multi-purpose arena hosting Celtics games, Bruins hockey, and major concerts.
Off the Track
Discover lesser-known corners and quirky attractions beyond the typical tourist trail.
Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library
Walk through a three-story stained-glass globe mapping the world.
Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University
Expansive botanic garden with seasonal color, trails, and quiet avenues.
Castle Island and Fort Independence
Coastal park with scenic views, a brick fort, and open-air picnic spots.