What to do in Boston, MA

Activities, attractions and tours

Boston
Boston
Boston
Boston
Boston

Boston Attractions

If you’re looking for things to do in Boston, you may have a hard time creating a short list for the Massachusetts capital. Considering the rich history and delicious food in Beantown, there is plenty to do here any time of year. People journey to this New England destination to take in a baseball game at famed Fenway Park, visit the Bunker Hill Monument, and nosh at the original Cheers™. If you’re not sure where to start, Boston tours are a good way to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time.

Areas & Neighbourhoods

Boston has developed a variety of neighbourhoods, each with its own vibe. It doesn’t matter if you’re a history buff or look forward to reading in a park, Boston has an area to feed your interests.

Beacon Hill — Make a stop in Beacon Hill for a taste of Boston’s finest architecture. This historic neighbourhood is brimming with traditional brick buildings and row houses. While you’re here, walk past many historical homes, include places once owned by writers Robert Frost and Sylvia Plath.

South End — Called Southie by locals, this Boston neighbourhood is near downtown and Back Bay. It also happens to host many of the most fun things to do in Boston, with a bounty of restaurants and shops on Tremont and Washington Streets.

North End — In this part of Boston, things to do include visits to historical sites and authentic Italian restaurants; this is also the neighbourhood where locals can be found rooting for a bocce game at the courts on Commercial Street or sipping coffee at a local café.

What to See in Boston

Boston museums aim to attract every type of traveller, including history buffs and art lovers. The Boston Fire Museum, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum , and the Commonwealth Museum are all open to the public. If art and culture are up your alley, put the Boston Symphony Orchestra on your itinerary or take in an opera. The Athens of America is also home to plenty of theatre, including the Cutler Majestic Theatre and Calderwood Pavilion.

Things to Do & Attractions in Boston

When you’re ready to get a bit more active in The Walking City, you will find plenty to do in Boston. Whether you are traveling with the family or on a journey with your friends, you can keep just about any pace. Stop in at the Boston Children’s Museum to play and learn with kids of all ages and then take a stroll by The Paul Revere House in north Boston. Have some adult fun by taking a Samuel Adams® brewery tour, or go ice skating in Boston Common during the winter months. Things to do in Boston, MA are ever-changing, with new attractions and restaurants popping up all the time. One thing is sure: You won’t leave town without wanting to come back.

You can also book top Boston hotels and great Boston package deals right here on Expedia.co.uk.

Things to do


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What to do in Boston


Popular places to visit

Where to stay in Boston

Find the best Boston areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Boston
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Back Bay

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Copley Square to Newbury Street – discover Back Bay, a destination also famous for its shopping.

Beacon Hill

Historical sites, shopping and restaurants highlight some notable features of Beacon Hill. Make a stop by Charles Street or Hatch Shell while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Charles-MGH Station or Park St. Station to get around town.

Downtown Boston

Known for its must-see aquarium and captivating waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Boston. Check out top attractions like Boston Harbor and Boston Massacre Site, and jump on the metro at State St. Station or Downtown Crossing Station to see more of the city.

Seaport District

Travellers to Seaport District praise its captivating waterfront views. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Boston Harbor and Liberty Wharf.

North End

The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are just a few popular features of the neighbourhood. Make a stop by Boston Harbor or New England Aquarium while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Aquarium to get around town.


 

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Day trip destinations from Boston

Frequently asked questions

Is Boston worth visiting?
With a mix of dining and culture, there are plenty of things to do in Boston. While you're here, check out New England Aquarium, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Boston?
Once you've checked off top attractions like New England Aquarium and Newbury Street, spend the rest of your day discovering Boston's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Boston?
The top tourist attraction in Boston is New England Aquarium, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Boston?
You can easily tick off top attractions like New England Aquarium, Newbury Street and Boston Museum of Fine Arts with a three-day getaway in Boston. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to Cambridge.
Is Boston a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Boston is a good place to visit on foot. Wander between New England Aquarium and Newbury Street. Then take a stroll through South Boston, located 3 kms (2 miles) from the centre, and D Street - West Broadway, which is about 2 kms (1 mile) away.
What are some activities to do in Boston with kids?
What to do in Boston for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Boston, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Samuel Adams Brewery or Harpoon Brewery.
Are there free things to do in Boston?
In Boston, Newbury Street is a must-see spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to explore the best free things to do in Boston.

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