The Best Things To Do In Boston

As one of the top rated walking cities in the United States, Boston has it all – entertainment, outdoor recreation and all of the historical points of interest you could ever hope for, all within a short distance. Whether you want to stroll around the various charming districts or you plan to spend the day in any of the museums, this beautiful city in New England is a popular destination for all ages.

New England is a gorgeous region of the country all year long – depending on what you like. Want to see snowy landscape or see the leaves changing colors into vibrant golds and reds? Boston’s weather is very seasonal, meaning that winters are cold and snowy, while autumn is mild and full of eye-catching color – just the thing you would want to see in New England and Boston in particular. The peak travel season is summer as most visitors come to see the historic sites during break from school and work.

When you’re creating an itinerary for your visit to this all-American city, there’s quite a variety of options. Check out historic Faneuil Hall, which is an indoor and outdoor shopping center within a few steps from the waterfront – this is perfect for visitors on any budget. This historic building dates back to 1743 and has been a marketplace ever since! If you’re into sports, you have some options no matter what time of year you visit. During fall and winter, cheer on the NFL champions New England Patriots or if you’re in Boston during spring or summer, the Boston Red Sox play baseball in the iconic Fenway Park – both options are worth attending.

Walk along the 2.5 mile walking trail, known as the Freedom Trail, which visitors can walk along and see numerous historic sites that highlight the origins of American government and founding, such as Paul Revere’s house and Boston Common. If you have children, marvel over the 2,000 marine species found at the New England Aquarium. If you’re into art and history, the Museum of Fine Arts has a vast collection of artifacts and art dating back to the Egyptian era.

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New England Aquarium

Come down to the New England Aquarium for a great day out, exploring more than 15,000 sea creatures. The day will be packed with fun, with penguin feeding, seal shows, and the Giant Ocean Tank that displays creatures such as sharks, turtles and eels. Take in a movie at the IMAX Cinema and watch the kids’ excitement as they visit the touch tanks! What a great day out!

Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a fantastic way to get a snapshot of Boston’s history. This 2.5 mile trail – marked with red paint and markers, highlighting stops and guiding the way – starts at the Boston Common and ends at Charlestown. Along the way you will see sixteen important sites and lots of interesting scenery. A great option is to join a guided tour; these 90 minute tours are led by experts and visit eleven of the sixteen sites!

Beacon Hill

Meander around Beacon Hill and take in the understated beauty of an area that has preserved the best of a bygone era. Enjoy the gas lanterns and the cobblestone streets, with the houses well maintained. Take a walk down Louisburg Square for stately houses, and Charles Street for boutique shops. Stop for a snack or a meal, and watch the locals go about their day!

North End

Dating back to the 1630’s, a visit to the neighbourhood of North End takes you back in time, but also to the area known as “Little Italy”. Stroll through the maze of narrow streets; it has a host of historical landmarks, including Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and Mariners House. Famous for its great Italian restaurants, this neighbourhood doesn’t take itself too seriously; look out for the parking signs that say only Italians can park there!

Boston Common

If you take the Freedom Trail, you will start at the oldest park in America, Boston Common. The park was established in 1634, and in the Revolution was used by the British as a camp. Nowadays, join the locals and enjoy these 20 hectares of picturesque open space, and explore the monuments and memorials that are scattered throughout. Have a picnic, or in summer maybe attend “Shakespeare on the Common!”

Cheers Boston

When you visit Beacon Hill, make sure one of your stops is that of Cheers Boston, the pub made famous by the television series “Cheers”. The pub – previously known as the Bull & Finch – is a must for fans of the show. Although the interior is not the same as that of the show, it is still a great place to reminisce and enjoy a beer or two, and pick up that memento that you’ll cherish!

Quincy Market

Discover Quincy Market; a food market to the city for more than 200 years. Explore the more than 100 vendors on offer, and sample food from around the world, including Indian and Greek food complementing chowder and bagels! You can even make it an extra special experience with the free one hour tour, appreciating the history and architecture of the market!

Paul Revere House

Come to Paul Revere House and take a trip through history, starting when the house was first built in the 1680’s! The Paul Revere House is that in which he began his famous “Midnight Ride” in 1775, to warn that the British were on the march! A visit will takes you through his life – with historic documents and artefacts – and the various functions the building has been used for, until it became a museum.

Boston Museum of Science

Truly a modern day encyclopaedia, the Boston Museum of Science makes learning so much fun. With over 600 interactive exhibits, there is always something to explore. Be sure to experience making lightning with the lightning generator, then investigate the dinosaur exhibition, or let the kids loose in the Discovery Centre – they won’t want to go home!

Copley Place

To explore Boston’s trendy up-market shopping options, head to Copley Place. An integral part of the city’s life, Copley Place is not just a shopping centre, but includes hotels and entertainment venues, as well as a hub for office workers and businesses. Stroll through the complex and admire the central atrium, and people-watch as locals go about their day.

Site of the Boston Massacre

As you approach the Old State House, you are at the Site of the Boston Massacre that many believe was the catalyst for the revolution. This turning point in American history, played out on this spot on March 5, 1770, when British soldiers fired into a protesting crowd, killing five citizens. Whilst two of the soldiers were found guilty of manslaughter, and had a hand branded, the revolutionary spark had already been lit!

Fenway Park

Baseball lovers and history buffs alike flock to see Boston’s famous Fenway Park, home to the Red Socks, and loved by Bostonian’s since 1912! Try to catch a game and see the Green Monster – a 37 foot high wall that towers over left field, adding mystique to the fate of the game. If you can’t make it to a game, never fear – you can always enjoy a one hour guided tour and explore the layout and history of the complex!

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is one of the most popular summer vacation destinations for New Englanders – generations of families have played on the same beaches for decades. But, of course, it’s not just for the locals. The arm of Massachusetts that curls away from the mainland and reaches north again, like someone flexing an arm muscle, is called Cape Cod.