boston history tourist attractions

Boston Historical Sites: 21 Must-See Stops for History Buffs

Teeming with history around every corner, Boston boasts an abundance of significant sites for history buffs.

From walking the Freedom Trail to strolling through historic cemeteries, visitors are bound to learn something new about our nation’s roots. Discover the must-see Boston historical sites so you can get the most out of your trip.

Historical Boston Sites: The Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail connects many of the most significant sites of our nation’s history, all within the city of Boston. Featuring a trail of museums, churches, meeting houses, parks, a ship, burying grounds, and historic places in Boston, each site tells its own history in Boston regarding the American Revolution and beyond.

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This 2.5-mile trail features sixteen historic Boston sites from the Boston Common to Paul Revere’s house in the North End. Of course, you don’t need a tour to follow the markers, although tours are available during business hours.

Historical Things in Boston: Charles River Esplanade

Stroll down the scenic Charles River Esplanade in the Back Bay Area for beautiful views, sun, and exercise. Stretching for 17 miles, visitors can walk, bike, canoe, kayak, rollerblade, and more. There’s even a playground for kids to explore.

In addition, visitors can catch free summertime concerts as well as free moving showings at the Hatch Shell. Furthermore, the Hatch Shell features the iconic free Boston Pops concert each July 4th.

Historical Sites: Boston Common

Founded in 1634, the  Boston Common serves as an incredibly historic site with ties to the Revolutionary War, anti-Vietnam War rallies, civil rights rallies, and much more.

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Now owned by a nonprofit organization, the park contains beautiful walkways, fountains, statues, and play areas. Further, many families go ice-skating in the Frog Pond each year.

In addition, the Boston Common encompasses several Boston historic sites and monuments including:

• The Great Elm
• Brewer Fountain
• John Paul II Placard
• Central Burying Ground
• Soldiers and sailors Monument
• Boston Foundation Monument

Historic Sites in Boston: Faneuil Hall Marketplace

One of the most significant sites along the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has served as a meeting place since the 1740s.

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Once a hotspot for hearing speeches during the Revolutionary War, it’s now home to Quincy Market where visitors can wander through food stalls and dine at numerous eateries. One of the top Boston historical sites, this is a perfect stop once you get hungry.

Historical Places in Boston: Battle of Bunker Hill Monument & Museum

The Bunker Hill Monument and Museum commemorates one of the first important battles of the Revolutionary War.

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Standing 221 feet, visitors can obtain a climbing pass from the museum to climb to the top for incredible views. Across the street from the monument, the museum showcases exhibits on the battle, construction of the monument, and the history of Charlestown.

One of the most important historical sites in Boston, you don’t want to skip out.

Historic Sites: Boston Massacre Site

Along the Freedom Trail lies a marker indicating the site of the Boston Massacre . Located at the intersection of State and Congress Streets outside of the Old State House downtown, the marker lies a few yards away from where the massacre took place on March 5, 1770.

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Each year, the Bostonian Society hosts reenactments of this significant historical event that led to the rallying of Bostonians against the British Crown and the expulsion of occupying troops.

Historic Things to Do in Boston: The Paul Revere House

Built in 1680, this iconic Bostonian residence houses three generations of fascinating history. First built and owned by a wealthy merchant, Paul Revere then bought the two-story home in 1770, where he lived with his wife, his children, and his mother.

After he sold the home in 1800, the house operated as a boarding house for sailors, immigrant tenement, and various businesses throughout the years. In 1908, the house opened to the public as one of the earliest house museums in the nation after restoration.

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Today, the house stands as the oldest building in Downtown Boston and one of the few 17th-century buildings in our nation’s inner cities.

Visitors are welcome to self-tour the period-furnished home of Revere’s family and learn about their lives and the real story of the historic Midnight Ride.

Boston Tea Party Ships Museum

With seven distinct sections highlighting the Boston Tea Party of 1773, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum enables guests to travel back in time through interactive exhibits.

Guests can experience reenactments of the historic event with full-scale replica 18th-century sailing vessels, historic artifacts, live actors, a multi-sensory award-winning film, and much more. Note that you need to purchase a ticket to tour sections 1-5 of the museum.

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Old North Church

Visit the site that launched the American Revolution and the phrase, “One if by land, two if by sea.” Made famous due to Paul Revere’s midnight ride to signal the arrival of British troops, the Old North Church lies along the Freedom Trail.

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Founded in 1723, the church is the oldest standing church in Boston. Visitors are welcome to take a seat in one of the box pews and listen to an eight-minute talk on the history of the church and the midnight ride.

Furthermore, guests can relax in out of the church’s five gardens, visit the gift shop, or learn about 18th-century chocolate through the colonial chocolate program. In addition, visitors can see the Patriots Corner Gallery in the historic Clough House. For a more exclusive, detailed peek into the past, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour.

Old State House Museum

Built in 1713, the Old State House once served as a seat of British power before transforming to a meeting hall for crucial debates that sparked the American Revolution.

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Today, visitors can connect to our nation’s roots through interactive, hands-on exhibits suitable for all ages. Explore the Revolutionary story of Massachusetts, experience the Council Chamber as it once appeared in the 18th century. Also, learn about the Boston Massacre, and much more.

The Black Heritage Trail & Museum of African American History

The Black Heritage Trail  walking tour in Beacon Hill guides visitors through 14 significant ships that played a role in shaping African American history. You can stop by the Abiel Smith School for a helpful, free map.

Moreover, the Museum of African American History , located in the former Abiel Smith School, takes visitors on a journey through Boston’s Black history. The Boston African American National Historic Site is the largest museum dedicated to preserving and interpreting the contributions of African Americans in New England with one site in Boston and another on the Island of Nantucket.

USS Constitution

Fun fact: The USS Constitution is the oldest ship in the world still afloat. Better yet, the public is welcome to visit this historic ship, which is permanently locked in the Charleston Navy Yard.

Explore what life at sea was like over 200 years ago with a free tour. Note that tours are available every 30 minutes days from 10 am – 4 pm (extended hours offered during summer).

Old South Meeting House

The Old South Meeting House has served as an active center for free speech and civic dialogue since the 18th century.

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Built in 1729 as a Puritan congregational church, the meeting house eventually served as the organizing point for the Boston Tea Party of 1773. Since 1877, Old South has operated as museum, historic site, education institution, and center for public forums and performances.

JFK Presidential Library & Museum

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum commemorates the 35th president’s life, leadership, and legacy. Located on a ten-acre park, the library features an extensive collection of historic materials that detail President Kennedy’s administration and the politics of his time.

Irish Heritage Trail

Did you know that the largest ethnic group in Boston is Irish (almost 16% of the population)?

You can walk the free Irish Heritage Trail to learn about some of the most noteworthy contributions made by the Irish community. Overall, visitors can see 16 sites along the 3-mile trail.

Boston Public Library

A beautiful work of architecture, The Boston Public Library contains more than 1.7 million rare books and manuscripts as well as a major art collection. Further, because of its vast collection of works, the Boston Public Library is considered one of the five most important libraries in the nation. Guests are welcome to take a free tour to learn more about the library’s history and collections, which is offered multiple times a day.

Historical Things to See in Boston: Burial Grounds

Because Boston is almost 400 years old, the city’s graveyards boast fascinating characters and historical significance around every corner. For instance, the Granary Burying Ground houses many notable historical figures such as John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, Crispus Attucks, and Robert Treat Paine. One of the top Boston historical things to do, visiting the burial grounds is more fascinating than creepy.

With three active graveyards and sixteen historic burial grounds, those interested in the macabre won’t be bored.

Boston History Sites: Boston Athenaeum

The Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest and most prestigious independent libraries and cultural establishments in the nation.

Formed in 1805, the Athenaeum has informed the masses on works of literature, the arts, history, sciences, and more, now containing over half a million volumes.

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In addition, the institution houses an impressive art gallery and presents exhibitions, and sponsors concerts, lectures, and community discussions.

Further, guests can find the infamous human skin book in the first-floor reading room. Included in the admission fee, you’ll find the memoirs of criminal James Allen (aka George Walton), which are bound in his skin.

Historic Things to See: Boston Garden

The oldest public garden in the United States, the Boston Public Garden was established in 1837 and presents many lovely meandering walkways, species of flowers and plants, and bird species that populate the area. Guests can ride the Swan Boats, picnic, play sports, and much more.

Boston Harbor Islands

The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area presents 34 islands and peninsulas that enable visitors to see historic lighthouses, hike, camp, fish, swim, and more.

Further, Fort Warren on Goerges Island offers tours and fun, educational special events. Visitors can take a short car, ferry, and boat ride away from downtown to reach the islands.

Castle Island

Castle Island has housed several forts since 1643, with Fort Independence serving as the most notable.

Built in the mid-19th century, Fort Independence was under federal control and used by the military during WWI and WWII. Today, this 22-acre urban park is open to the public, weather permitting, from Memorial Day to Columbus Day.

Boston Go Pass

Want to save up to 55% on admission to over 30 attractions and tours for a low price? Go Boston Pass is your key to simplifying your Boston travel itinerary (and budget).

Choose between the Go Boston All-Inclusive Pass or Go Boston Explorer Pass to customize your trip! Read more in our in-depth guide Boston on a Budget: How to Save BIG With a Go City Pass .

Boston Hotels Near Historic Sites

Looking for the best hotels in Boston historic district? We recommend Club Quarters Hotel, Boston, Faneuil Hall for it’s close proximity to all of the must-see Boston Historical Sites.

To get the best deal at the best prices, bundle a Go City Boston ticket with your hotel stay . The Go Boston pass provides entry to more than 15 attractions, tours, and museums, plus you’ll have a close, comfortable place to lay your head at night all for one low price !

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Written by Talena M

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

• United States

10 of the Best Historic Sites in Boston

05 Jul 2023

@histluketomes.

1. The Freedom Trail

Boston is known as “the birthplace of the American Revolution”, mainly because it was the location of numerous historic events that ignited the War of Independence.

Boston was also the capital of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, the home of the colonial government, and the center of trade and commerce of the colony. Once the Revolutionary War started in April of 1775, it became a vital military and strategical objective for both British forces and the colonists.

The Freedom Trail contains all the sites which tell the story of the port city’s importance in the birth of the United States of America.

2. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is a floating history museum with live reenactments and multimedia exhibits. Its area of focus is the Boston Tea Party of 1773 , by far the most important historic event in the city’s history and a key trigger of the American War of Independence .

The Boston Tea Party Museum features reenactments of the event in 1773, a documentary, and a number of interactive exhibits.

The museum features two replica ships of the period, Eleanor and Beaver . Additionally, the museum possesses one of two known tea chests from the original event, part of its permanent collection.

3. Boston Common

Boston Common is a central park in downtown Boston, Massachusetts. Established in 1634, it is the oldest public park in the United States.

In 1634, Puritan colonists purchased the land rights to the Common’s 44 acres from the first European settler of the area, Anglican minister William Blackstone. Originally, the Common included the entire block northeast of where Park Street is now, bounded by Beacon Street and Tremont Street.

Almost four hundred years after its establishment, families come to this treasured remnant of 17th century Boston for leisure – to stroll, jog, skate on the Frog Pond, and play in the fields.

4. USS Constitution Museum

The USS Constitution Museum is a floating museum dedicated to the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy that has survived to this day.

In 1794, Congress authorized the construction of the first six warships to comprise the new United States Navy. Each of the six vessles were built at various ports along the eastern coast.

USS Constitution was built at Hartt’s shipyard in the North End of Boston. Construction began in 1794 and Constitution launched on the 21 October, 1797. She went on her first cruise the next year as the Quasi-War with France emerged. USS Constitution’s crew defeated four British frigates during three separate engagements in the War of 1812.

After over 200 years in the Navy, Constitution still calls Charlestown home and relies on the same facilities for maintenance and repair.

5. Bunker Hill Monument

The Bunker Hill Monument is a memorial of the Battle of Bunker Hill, which took place on 17 June 1775 between the British army and the militias of Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island early in the American Revolution.

Bunker Hill Monument sits atop Breed’s Hill, on which most of the Battle of Bunker Hill was actually fought, however, the battle is named after the parties’ objective goal, Bunker Hill.

The monument an obelisk standing 221 feet high which visitors can enter and even climb to the top for stunning views from its observation deck.

6. Faneuil Hall

Faneuil is a marketplace and meeting hall located near the waterfront and Government Center, in Boston, Massachusetts. Officially opened in 1743, Faneuil Hall was the site of several speeches by Samuel Adams, James Otis, and other Founding Fathers who encouraged independence from Great Britain.

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace which is now part of Boston National Historical Park and has become a well-known stop on The Freedom Trail .

7. Old South Meeting House

The Old South Meeting House is a historic congregational church situated in downtown Boston, Massachusetts. It gained fame as the organizing point for the Boston Tea Party in 1773.

As tensions grew about the British colonial government in the latter half of the eighteenth century, the Old South Meeting House became the home of free speech in Boston.

As the largest building in the town, it was often used as an alternative to Faneuil Hall , which was the official town meeting hall.

8. Old North Church

Old North Church is Boston’s oldest church, having been built in 1723 in the Georgian style. Originally called Christ’s Church, Old North Church was also the tallest building in Boston at the time and thus came to serve an important role in the American Revolution, particularly in Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride.

Today Old North Church is still an operating Episcopal house of worship as well as a museum where visitors can admire its architecture and see the window from which Newman fled from the British that fateful night. One can also hear the tolling of the oldest bells in America.

9. Paul Revere House

Paul Revere House was the home of goldsmith/silversmith and founding father Paul Revere and his family from 1770 to 1800.

In 1774 and 1775, during the build up to the American Revolution, Paul Revere was tasked as an express rider on behalf of the Massachusetts Committee of Safety and the Boston Committee of Correspondence.

This role would lead him to perform one of the most famous rides in American history. On the eve of 18 April 1775, Revere was called upon to ride to Lexington, Massachusetts to warn John Hancock and Samuel Adams that British forces were on their way to detain them. It is Paul Revere whose famous words are said to have been “The British are coming!”, raising the alarm and allowing the Americans to prepare for battle.

Paul Revere House forms part of Boston’s Freedom Trail .

10. Old State House

The Old State House in Boston played an important role in the American Revolution and is now one of the sites included in the Freedom Trail , a tourist trail made up of sixteen sites relating to the American Revolution against the British.

The Old State House was part of the Boston Massacre of 1770, as attested to by a plaque beneath its balcony which indicates that this was the location where British soldiers fired into a group of Bostonians. This balcony was the scene of happier times on 18 July 1776, when Colonel Thomas Crafts read out the Declaration of Independence to the public for the first time.

Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

As Massachusetts' capital and the birthplace of the American Revolution, there's no shortage of historical sites for travelers to explore within Boston's city limits (and beyond). There's even a Boston Tea Party Museum on the harbor

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

Stretching 2½ miles, the Freedom Trail weaves past 16 of the city's most historic sites, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace , the Paul Revere House and Old North Church . Taking in all of the trail's attractions requires at least half a day (and some comfortable walking shoes), but you can easily plot points of interest before you begin your jaunt from Boston Common .

Though most visitors agree the trail is easy to navigate on your own, some recommend a guided tour or downloading an app to tell you about the sites. (You'll find a handful of apps available for Apple and Android devices.) If you have a Go Boston Card, standard guided tours given by the Freedom Trail Foundation are covered by your pass.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every Friday and Saturday, Haymarket (one America's oldest open-air markets) pops up adjacent to Faneuil Hall. In order to navigate this often-chaotic scene successfully make sure to bring small bills, leave bulky bags at the hotel and keep it moving on the sidewalk. - Jill LeGrow

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall. Built in 1742 and now a stop on the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." From those illustrious days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants.

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

Though the Boston Public Garden sits right next to Boston Common , the two are quite different. The public garden is newer (established in 1837) and holds the distinction of being America's first public botanical garden. Flowers and trees are beautifully organized and kept in quality condition throughout. You can see the colorful arrangements and exotic trees from the 6-acre pond as you glide along the water in a Swan Boat. Additionally, the park houses two of Boston's most iconic statues: Make Way for Ducklings (a bronze sculpture of a duck and her eight ducklings) and a sculpture of George Washington (which shows America's first president riding on a horse).

Visitors looking to relax after sightseeing will enjoy the Boston Public Garden. Parkgoers say you'll find plenty of shade beneath the park's trees, which comes in handy on hot summer days. Plus, you'll likely spot some ducks and geese swimming around the lagoon. And if you have a few dollars, visitors recommend taking a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat. The large paddle boats cost $4.50 to ride (or $3 for kids ages 2 to 15 and $4 for seniors); travelers with Go Boston Cards ride for free. Swan Boats are usually available between mid-April and Labor Day.

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North End North End free

Chances are you'll end up in the North End at least once during your visit to Boston. It's steeped in the city's rich history as it holds the title of Boston's oldest neighborhood and houses three attractions on the Freedom Trail . What makes this neighborhood a top point of interest, however, is its Italian culture: The North End is considered Boston's Little Italy.

While Italians weren't the first to settle in this area (English settlers arrived first then European Jews, African Americans and Irish immigrants), their cultural influence on the North End withstood the test of time. Today, you'll find all kinds of Italian food from classic pizza pies served at the popular Regina Pizzeria to Sicilian-style seafood, such as black linguine (made with squid ink) and calamari meatballs at The Daily Catch . For dinner, try Mamma Maria for fine dining, Giacomo's for its affordable, made-in-house pasta or Bricco , which sources its meats and bread from its own meat and bread shop, located right next door. If you’re only interested in pizza, hit up Galleria Umberto for delectable solo slices or Antico Forno for its full-size, wood-fired pies. Prezza is known for its extensive wine list, boasting hundreds of wine labels to choose from. For dessert, make sure to pick up a cannoli at Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry , or tiramisu at the 24-hour Bova's Bakery .

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

If you want to make the most out of the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most comprehensive art institutions in the country, then you'll need to spend a good chunk of your day here. The museum is home to one of the best art collections in the world, including the celebrated Art of the Americas wing. Inside this sprawling collection, you'll encounter galleries showcasing iconic pieces from indigenous cultures in North, South and Central America to works by contemporary artists like Edward Hopper.

You'll also find an impressive collection of Asian art here, plus works from Monet, Renoir, Manet and Rembrandt on display. And in special temporary exhibits, you can admire masterpieces from Black artists like Diedrick Brackens and Picasso, among others.

Boston Common Boston Common free

The grounds of Boston Common started as a cow pasture in the mid-1600s. It was also used for Puritan punishments, like whipping, and even for hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common is best known because of its status as the oldest public park in the country. You'll also find a variety of activities and events – including theater and musical performances and free fitness classes – hosted here throughout the year. If you plan to traverse the Freedom Trail , you'll start the walk here at Boston Common.

Though some visitors say you won't find much to do in this park, Boston Common is great for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Travelers also mention that this site is a wonderful spot to take young children. In addition to ample running room on the park's green space, kids can play at the Tadpole Playground or Frog Pond. Frog Pond offers a spray pool during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in the winter. Some visitors do note that the park tends to draw Boston's homeless population, particularly at night.

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Fenway Park Fenway Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to watch a Sox game without a ticket, head to the Bleacher Bar on Lansdowne Street. Located beneath the bleachers of Fenway, the best tables are positioned directly in front of the huge garage window that overlook centerfield. – Jill LeGrow

Fans of America's favorite pastime won't want to miss a game at Fenway Park. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this stadium has been the site of home runs, stolen bases and grounders since 1912. Regardless of whether or not you're a diehard Red Sox fan, you should try to catch a game and admire the ballpark's original architecture. Must-see features of the park include Pesky's Pole – the right field foul pole named after former Red Sox player Johnny Pesky – and the 37-foot-tall "Green Monster" wall in left field.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

After Isabella Stewart Gardner's husband died in 1898, the art enthusiast carried out their plan to buy land in Boston's Fenway area and open a museum to display her impressive collection of Italian art. The museum, which was fashioned after the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice , was completed in 1901, at which point Gardner moved in to the fourth floor and began installing her collection. Today, you can visit this Boston museum to get your fill of the Italian masters, such as Raphael and Titian. The building also showcases a cache of beautiful furniture, photographs, sculpture and rare books straight from Europe. The museum's New Wing, designed by Renzo Piano, includes a glass atrium, greenhouses and landscaped gardens.

The art isn't the only interesting thing here: the museum is also the site of the single largest property theft on Earth. In the wee hours of March 18, 1990, two thieves made their way into the museum disguised as police. The duo stole 13 works, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas and Manet. Today, the museum has empty frames on the walls as placeholders until the art returns to the museum. As you may have guessed, the crime has not been solved and the works haven't been recovered. The museum is even offering a sizable reward ($10 million) for information leading to the art. 

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Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

A library isn't always all about books. The main branch of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, which opened in 1895, is so much more, according to recent visitors who call the architecture "beautiful" and a “must-see.” Walking into the Renaissance Revival building is akin to visiting a museum. On Dartmouth Street, two immense stone lions sculpted by Louis Saint-Gaudens stand guard by the main entrance. Inside, Bates Hall, the library's main reference reading room, is a 218-foot-long room with a barrel-arch ceiling soaring 50 feet high.

Visitors can take a free tour and learn all about the murals found throughout the library, including John Singer Sargent's series on the "Triumph of Religion." Other murals include works by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, who depicted eight library-centric disciplines in "The Muses of Inspiration," and Edwin Austin Abbey's "The Quest and Achievement of the Holy Grail."

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

A must for any history buffs or fans of our nation's 35th president, this excellent library and museum details the life of President John F. Kennedy. Exhibits include his presidential papers; masses of Kennedy memorabilia, including re-creations of his desk in the Oval Office and of the television studio in which he debated Richard M. Nixon in the 1960 election; and artifacts from the U.S. space program. There's permanent display on the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis plus plenty of other artifacts and information about Kennedy's life and presidency. The building itself is quite striking and was designed by architect I. M. Pei.

Museumgoers say that while the museum is off the beaten path (it sits about 5 miles south of downtown on Columbia Point), it is well worth the trek thanks to the exhibits and staff. However, some wish the exhibits had a more detailed explanation of Kennedy and events during his life. The views from the museum are amazing, add some visitors.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

If you want to get outdoors in the greater Boston area, consider hopping a ferry (which operates from mid-May through mid-October) to the Boston Harbor Islands. This collection of 34 islands located in the Massachusetts Bay boasts plenty of things to do and see including historic sites, hiking trails, beaches, wildlife and much more. Popular islands include Spectacle, Georges and Peddocks, though ferries also go to Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin and Thompson.

The 114-acre Spectacle Island is a great option for those looking to hike. Here, you'll find 5 miles of trails, including one which leads to the harbor's highest hill, offering incredible views of Boston's skyline. If you’re looking for a place where you can sink your toes into the sand, head to Lovells Island. Here, you’ll find secluded shorelines as well as tide pools (when it's low tide, a whopping 71 acres are added to the island's land mass). Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy a trip to Georges Island. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, which the U.S. government used for patrolling and training Union troops as well as housing Confederate prisoners during Civil War times. Peddocks Island, one of the largest of the Boston Harbor Islands, offers a little bit of everything. This island is considered a prime camping spot and features scenic hiking trails that pass through coastal forests, headlands connected by tombolos and the biggest beach of any island. You'll also find a little bit of history thanks to Fort Andrews and a restored chapel from World War II.

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

Located in the Back Bay along eight blocks between Massachusetts Avenue and Arlington Street, Newbury Street is home to gorgeous 19th century brownstones. It's also Boston's premiere destination for dining and shopping. Newbury Street has been called one of the most expensive streets in the world, thanks in large part to the significant cluster of expensive shops on the lower end (by numbered address) nearest Arlington Street.

Starting at the higher end, by Massachusetts Avenue, you'll find more budget-friendly retailers like TJ Maxx and Forever 21, as well longtime local favorites Newbury Comics and Trident Booksellers. In fact, Newbury Comics' opening in 1978 was the catalyst that began the transformation of Newbury Street from a heavily upper-class retail destination to a hipper, trendier spot for everyone.

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

Despite its location outside of city center, visiting the Samuel Adams Brewery is a popular stop for beer lovers. This brewery location acts as Samuel Adams' testing facility for new and specialty brews, which patrons can try. You can also take a guided tour of the facility to learn more about the brewing process.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, odds are you'll enjoy a visit to this brewery. Visitors say the staff is knowledgeable, but note there can be long entry lines.

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Cambridge Cambridge free

Cambridge, which sits about 3 miles northwest of Boston's city center, is home to both Harvard University and MIT , but there's more to see in Cambridge than just the schools themselves. The city features an impressive array of cultural institutions that feature collections and exhibitions ranging from fine art to technological innovations.

The Harvard Art Museums , which include the Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum and Arthur M. Sackler Museum, house a wide range of periods, styles and mediums within its walls. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern photography, 13th century sculpture, paintings from legends like Georgia O’Keeffe, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, and much more. If you prefer history, head to the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology , which boasts exhibits exploring everything from ancient Latin American cultures to the evolution of American eating habits and tableware to the lives of Native Americans. If science is more your speed, head to the Harvard Museum of Natural History to view dinosaur fossils, rare minerals and animal specimens from New England to Asia.

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

Beacon Hill is arguably Boston's most beautiful neighborhood. Located north of Boston Common , Beacon Hill is awash with quaint, cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses affixed with bay view windows and vibrant, flower-filled window boxes. It's Beacon Hill's incredible style, a stunning mix of Federal and Greek revival architecture, that make this neighborhood an attraction in and of itself. And recent visitors couldn't agree more.

Travelers who venture to Beacon Hill are charmed by its beauty and say that it's the perfect place to take a long stroll and wander around. While here, make sure to make your way to noteworthy spots including the picturesque Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, the latter of which is one of the most photographed places in Boston. After, head down Charles Street, where you'll find restaurants, shops and bars. Fans of the TV show "Cheers" will want to walk down Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the program.

Old North Church Old North Church

Most people who know anything about American history have heard of Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, when he rode through town to warn people about the arrival of British troops. Before heading off to Lexington, Revere gave orders at Old North Church. Robert Newman – the church's sexton – and Captain John Pulling Jr. – the church's vestryman – then climbed the steeple and held two lanterns as a signal that the British were indeed coming, but by sea.

The church itself, which is officially named Christ Church, is filled with beautiful relics from the past, including North America's oldest set of change ringing bells and chandeliers brought in from England in the early 1700s. The pews have a long history as well; Pew No. 54 was reserved for Paul Revere's son.

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

With a giant milk bottle structure at the front of the building, it's hard to miss the Boston Children's Museum. Here, hands-on exhibits present a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about various sciences, culture, art and health and wellness, among other subjects. Among the museum's standout exhibits are "Construction Zone," where little ones can learn about and play with kid-sized construction equipment, "The Common," where kids play with color, games and music, and "Japanese House" – a 100-year-old authentic Japanese house reconstructed in Boston by Japanese carpenters.

Museumgoers praise the variety of engaging exhibits tailored to kids within different age groups and can't recommend it enough. Others warn the museum gets crowded, especially in the summer.

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

Boston is packed with cool outdoor spaces, but this nearly 1½-mile-long series of parks and gardens offers more than most. The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway was established to link Boston's diverse neighborhoods through a series of lawns, parks and walkways that occupy a former highway tunnel. Since opening in 2008, visitors have flocked to this sprawling green space to enjoy temporary public art displays, bubbling fountains, numerous food vendors and a carousel. Plus, the park offers free weekly events, including food and art festivals, summer concert performances and seasonal fitness classes.

Many previous visitors said the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway not only offers a much-needed respite from the city, but also an easy way to explore Boston with kids during the warmer months. And, in many sections of the Greenway, you're never more than a few steps away from the Freedom Trail .

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Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

This hands-on museum offers an entertaining look at one of Boston's pivotal moments. You can toss (fake) tea overboard, climb around replica ships and converse with period actors about Colonial issues. Exhibits at the museum, which is located on Griffin's Wharf (close to where the actual Tea Party occurred on Dec. 16, 1773) include 3D holograms, talking portraits and the Robinson Tea Chest, an authentic tea chest from the Boston Tea Party. Two of the three ships have been recreated, the Beaver and the Eleanor, which are fun to explore. The film "Let It Begin Here" depicts the events that immediately preceded the American Revolution. You can also grab a cup of tea or a snack in Abigail's Tea Room, which has one of the best views of the harbor around.

Visitors love the interactive nature of the museum and tossing tea overboard, saying their time there was entertaining for all ages. They also add that the guides are informative and stay in character.

Museum of Science Museum of Science

If you're traveling with young ones in tow, be sure to swing by the Museum of Science. Here, kids can learn about astronomy, earth sciences and anatomy, not to mention participate in some fun interactive exhibits. Budding scientists can examine the Arctic in "Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology" exhibit or play on swings to learn about physics in "Science in the Park." The museum also features the Charles Hayden Planetarium, where you can indulge your inner astronaut during shows. Meanwhile, at the Mugar Omni Theater, you'll feel like you're actually in the IMAX film thanks to its cutting-edge sound technology and five-story-high projection screen.

Although the museum is very kid-focused, past visitors said that young-at-heart adults and even teens will get a kick out of the museum's engaging displays and shows. Though most travelers spend about half a day exploring the museum, you could easily allocate an entire day to this attraction. Also, remember that separate tickets (which cost extra) are needed for some museum features, such as IMAX films, planetarium shows and the Garden Walk and Insect Zoo.

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

Wander Boston for a couple of hours and you're sure to see a Duck Tour quacking its way through the streets (and waterways). These "Truck Duck" vehicles recreate the look of a DUKW truck used by the U.S. military during World War II and transport tourists all over the city by land and water. The tours drive past a number of landmark sites including the Old State House, Newbury Street , Prudential Tower, Public Garden and the Swan Boats, and Copley Square (home to the Boston Public Library ). Once launched into the water, you'll cruise down the Charles River checking out MIT, the Longfellow Bridge, as well as the Esplanade and the Hatch Shell. 

Besides giving tours around the city, Boston Duck Tour boats have been used in all of the victory parades since 2002 for the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins (the city's major teams for football, baseball, basketball and hockey, respectively). What started off simply as a way to roll the Patriots through downtown Boston for a Superbowl celebration has turned into a much-loved tradition that continues today.

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

Even if you're not a classical music aficionado, you can't miss attending one of the Boston Symphony Orchestra's world-renowned performances at Symphony Hall. The BSO began performing in 1881. Today, the symphony performs everything from family shows to traditional concerts and Boston Pops – a lively performance filled with singing and a variety of music. The BSO performs at Symphony Hall from September through April, then heads to Tanglewood (which is about 130 miles west of Boston) in the summer.

Past spectators not only praised the world-class talent, but also noted the impressive acoustics of Symphony Hall as a main selling point for attending future concerts. If you can't score tickets to an orchestra performance, consider taking a free tour of Symphony Hall. Tours, which are offered in the fall, winter and spring, provide information about the property, as well as insight into the orchestra's musicians and conductors.

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

Gaze up at the six 54-foot glass towers that comprise the New England Holocaust Memorial, and you're bound to be awestruck. Dedicated in 1995, each haunting tower is etched with numbers. The 6 million numbers represent the Holocaust's victims, while the towers represent the six major death camps. There is also a granite path covered in quotes from survivors that leads visitors inside the towers.

Recent visitors described walking through the columns as an emotionally charged and unforgettable experience. The monument's location next to Faneuil Hall Marketplace makes it very accessible while walking the Freedom Trail .

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Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

For a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s, head to Paul Revere's former residence in the North End . The house, which is situated on the Freedom Trail , offers insight into how homes looked in Revere's time (it's even filled with period pieces, including fine silver). Inside, history fans can admire the building's sweeping beams, spacious fireplaces and some original furnishings owned by the Revere family.

If you like American history, travelers say you'll enjoy seeing the Paul Revere House. This house is small, though, so don't allot more than an hour to tour the property. Docents are friendly and knowledgeable.

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

The golden-domed Massachusetts State House is an important building for many reasons and is one of the stops on the Freedom Trail . The land it sits on was originally used as John Hancock’s cow pasture. It was designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1798 and the cornerstone was laid by Samuel Adams in 1795. A copper dome was installed by Paul Revere in 1802 (later covered in gold). Nowadays, senators, state representatives and the governor conduct the Commonwealth's business here.

Free tours are offered by docents who explain the building's history and discuss the important art and architecture within. Make sure to look for the Sacred Cod in the House of Representatives Chamber. The almost 5-foot wooden cod symbolizes the importance of the salt cod industry to the area.

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

Your kids will find plenty to love at the New England Aquarium, starting with the Atlantic harbor seals that hang out just beyond the ticket booth. Inside, you'll find thousands of marine critters to study, and at the center: the Giant Ocean Tank. This four-story tank includes a coral reef habitat that houses more than 1,000 underwater creatures including green sea turtles, eels and barracuda. In other parts of the aquarium, you'll find exhibits dedicated to penguins, sea jellies and seadragons, plus a six-story high projection movie screen with digital surround sound, where you can watch films about sea creatures and more. And don't forget to check out the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, which allows visitors to graze sharks and rays as they swim by.

While some visitors bemoan the aquarium's compact size (which, in turn, made for thick crowds), many appreciate the attraction's variety of animals. Several travelers also recommend watching a penguin or seal feeding.

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every July 4th, the USS Constitution takes her annual "turnaround" sail in Boston Harbor. The particular sail is the only one open to the public and the US Navy holds a lottery with the lucky winners getting to board "Old Ironsides." – Jill LeGrow

History lovers, boat enthusiasts and military aficionados alike can't miss the chance to board the USS Constitution. Docked at the Boston National Historical Park in Charlestown, this historic vessel is the world's oldest commissioned warship still operational today. It is helmed by United States Navy sailors, who also serve as the ship's guides. The ship's accompanying museums displays nearly 2,000 artifacts related to the ship's history.

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

Bunker Hill Monument is part of the Boston National Historical Park and a stop on the Freedom Trail . The first major battle of the American Revolution took place on Breed's Hill in June 1775, though originally it was supposed to take place on nearby Bunker Hill. Names aside, the British won the battle but fared worse than their American foes. The British sacrificed about nearly half of their 2,400 men; American casualties were between 300 and 500 out of an army of 1,400 to 1,800 soldiers. Construction of the monument started in 1827 and was completed in 1842. The 221-foot granite obelisk offers fabulous views from its observatory, though you have to work for it by climbing 294 steps to the top.

Start your visit at the Bunker Hill Museum, located across the street. Exhibits explain the Battle of Bunker Hill, the construction of the monument, and the history of Charlestown. Free tickets are required to climb the monument and you can also pick them up at the museum. Visitors enjoy the museum and say the monument is awe-inspiring and the grounds beautiful.

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View Boston View Boston

U.S. News Insider Tip: To save some cash on your sightseeing, pick up a Boston CityPass which allows you to visit up to four attractions (such as the Museum of Science , New England Aquarium , Boston Harbor City Cruise and View Boston) for one discounted price. – Jill LeGrow

Replacing the iconic Top of the Hub restaurant and Skywalk Observatory that closed in 2020, View Boston opened in June 2023 to offer 360 panoramic views of Boston from atop the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Taking over the top three floors of the Prudential Center, View Boston includes an observatory, a wraparound roof deck and indoor/outdoor cocktail bar called Stratus, and a floor with interactive exhibits such as a projection-mapped 3D model of Boston. There's also Beacon, a bistro offering seasonal beverages and food.

The Mapparium The Mapparium

Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story, stained glass globe never fails to elicit wonder. Designed by the architect of the Christian Science Publishing Society building, Chester Lindsay Churchill, the globe depicts the world as it was in 1935.

The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.

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23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Perhaps no other city in America holds as much history of the colonial and Revolutionary War era as Boston. It's not surprising then that its main sites have become a pilgrimage trail for Americans and for others who hope to get a sense of that history.

But more than that, the Freedom Trail is a good introduction to today's city, connecting or passing close to some of its best loved tourist attractions. Boston is easy to navigate on foot, as its major sights are relatively close, and America's first subway system, the T, connects its important neighborhoods.

Across the Charles River, a watery summer recreation area whose Boston shore is reserved as the Esplanade park, is Cambridge. Although a separate and independent city, for tourist purposes, Cambridge is part of Boston and connected by the same transit system.

Here, you'll find two of America's most prestigious and important universities, Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) . These and the many other universities and colleges in the area help keep Boston a youthful and vibrant place to be, with a lively cultural scene. With all the music, theater, and entertainment options, plus its abundance of restaurants, you'll never be at a loss for things to do in Boston at night.

Maybe because I've lived there and know its sometimes puzzling web of downtown streets, I find Boston a thoroughly comfortable city to visit; despite its tall buildings, its compact neighborhoods make it seem more like a cluster of small towns. Join me in a tour of my favorite city, and discover the best things to do, with this handy guide to the top attractions in Boston.

1. Walk the Freedom Trail

2. see a game or take a tour of fenway park, 3. faneuil hall, 4. boston common and public garden: ride the swan boats, 5. museum of fine arts boston, 6. isabella stewart gardner museum, 7. uss constitution and bunker hill (boston national historic park), 8. museum of science, 9. harvard square and harvard art museums, 10. old north church and boston's north end, 11. boston tea party ships & museum, 12. new england aquarium, 13. harvard museums and the glass flowers, 14. newbury street & back bay, 15. boston public library and copley square, 16. boston harbor and whale watching cruises, 17. john f. kennedy presidential library and museum, 18. beacon hill and the black heritage trail, 19. boston harborwalk and christopher columbus waterfront park, 20. rose fitzgerald kennedy greenway, 21. boston pops and boston symphony orchestra, 22. arnold arboretum, 23. massachusetts institute of technology, where to stay in boston for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to boston, best time to visit boston, ma.

The three-mile Freedom Trail leads you past – and into – 16 of the city's principal historic monuments and sites. It's easy to follow, by the line of red bricks in the sidewalk and by footprints at street crossings. Begin by picking up brochures on the attractions at the Visitor Center in the Boston Common before heading to the State House .

The trail will take you to Old Granary Burying Ground (where Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock are buried), King's Chapel Burying Ground (Boston's oldest cemetery with the graves of Governor John Winthrop and two Mayflower passengers), Old South Meeting House (where the ringing speeches of patriots spawned the Boston Tea Party), and the Old State House . This is Boston's oldest public building and the site of the Boston Massacre .

The Freedom Trail continues through Boston's North End, past the Paul Revere House and Old North Church , and ends across the bridge in Charlestown with the 54-gun frigate USS Constitution and the 220-foot granite Bunker Hill Monument. With all these attractions and places to see, it's no wonder the Freedom Trail is one of the best walking trails around Boston .

Known as "America's Most Beloved Ballpark," Fenway Park is one of the most fabled sports complexes in the country, and even if, like me, you're not a sports fan, a tour of it is both fun and interesting. And sitting inside, surrounded by cheering fans and singing "Sweet Caroline" is a quintessential Boston experience.

The home of the Boston Red Sox looks much the same as it did when it opened on April 20, 1912. One of its most recognizable features is the Green Monster , the 37-foot green wall in left field, and the park still maintains some of the remnants of "old time" baseball such as the hand-operated scoreboard.

Fenway Park also has the lowest seating capacity in the Major Leagues holding only 33,871 spectators (a fact that makes tickets exceedingly scarce).

Author's Tip: If you manage to get tickets, don't even think about driving to a game. Park outside the center and take any MBTA Green Line train (except one labeled Heath St.) to Kenmore Square and follow the crowd on the short walk to the stadium.

Address: 4 Yawkey Way, Boston, Massachusetts

Known as the "cradle of liberty," Faneuil Hall was built in 1740-42 by Huguenot merchant Peter Faneuil as a market hall and presented to the city on condition that it should always be open to the public.

The ground floor is still occupied by market stalls; on the upper floor is a council chamber, which in the 18th and 19th centuries was the meeting place of revolutionaries and later, of abolitionists. On its fourth floor is the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Museum , with weaponry, uniforms, and paintings of significant battles.

The adjoining Faneuil Hall Marketplace includes three long halls (Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market), dating from the early 19th century, now occupied by a lively assortment of shops, restaurants, and exhibitions.

In good weather, I love the block-party atmosphere here, with street performers and buskers putting on shows in the square around the market, and in any weather I never tire of browsing through the shops selling jewelry, clothing, gifts, and souvenirs. You can never have too many Red Sox caps, or you can get a coffee mug inscribed with a Boston/English dictionary. It might come in wicked handy talking with locals.

The food stalls in Quincy Market are some of the most popular places to eat lunch in Boston. My favorites are Fisherman's Net and the family-run Boston Chowdah for seafood, and West End Srollers for panini sandwiches I can walk around with as I browse. Ethnicities from Hispanic to Asian Fusion are represented, and Boston Halal is opening in 2023.

Address: Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, Massachusetts

In the heart of the city is Boston Common, America's oldest park and the start of the Freedom Trail . In this large green space, which is much used by locals year-round, are various monuments and the Central Burying Ground of 1756.

You can rent skates to use on the Frog Pond from November through mid-March, enjoy the spring blossoms and fall foliage colors reflecting in its surface, and in summer, watch youngsters splash about in the wading pool.

Adjoining it on the west side of Charles Street, is the 24-acre Public Garden, America's oldest botanical garden. Along with the Victorian-style monuments and statues, including an equestrian statue of George Washington, are the popular modern bronzes of a family of ducks immortalized in Robert McCloskey's children's book Make Way for the Ducklings .

Joining the ducklings to give the Public Garden its whimsical air is one of Boston's most iconic experiences for all ages: riding around the lake in the garden's center on the famous Swan Boats , first launched in the 1870s.

Generations of children have ridden these and returned with their own children and grandchildren (I know this because I'm in one of those families). If you're in Boston with kids, take them for a ride here, and start your own multi-generational tradition.

Address: Public Garden, Boston, Massachusetts

One of the leading art museums in the country, the Boston Museum of Fine Arts excels in its collections of Impressionist paintings, ancient Egyptian treasures, Asian and Persian fine arts, and works from ancient Greece and the Middle East.

Its crowning achievement is the construction of an entire American Wing to house, integrated in chronological order, outstanding collections of American paintings, furniture, decorative arts, folk art, silver, glassware, and design dating from pre-Columbian arts to the Art Deco and Modernist eras. To see all these works of art shown in context with other creative accomplishments of their time is an exciting journey through the world of American creativity, one I never tire of taking.

Highlights elsewhere include a 12th-century lacquered-wood sculpture of a Buddhist Bodhisattva and Korean painted screens, the ivory and gold statue of the Minoan Snake Goddess from 1500 BC, and a statue of the Egyptian pharaoh Mycerinus and his queen from 2548-2530 BC.

For me, in addition to the American Wing, the museum's highlight is the group of 35 paintings by Claude Monet , one of the largest collections outside of France. These are exhibited in good company, alongside works of Gaugin, Renoir, and Degas.

To see and appreciate all the museum's galleries and collections could take a full day, but the mind can only absorb as much as the feet can endure. So unless you are a devoted art enthusiast, plan from two hours to half a day here and concentrate on those sections that interest you most.

The museum is about a 1½-mile walk from Copley Square and other neighborhoods for sightseeing; an easier way to get there is on the MBTA Green Line. Take a car marked Heath St. from Copley or Park St. stations.

Address: 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts

Set in a building its eccentric creator modeled after a 15th-century Venetian palace, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum displays its collections in rooms surrounding a four-story central courtyard filled with flowering plants and fountains.

The priceless 2,500-piece collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, tapestries, decorative arts, books, and manuscripts reflect the personal tastes and considerable expertise of Mrs. Gardner herself, whose own flamboyance further adds to the charm of the museum.

Behind the palazzo, a 70,000-square-foot glass-clad building designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano creates new viewpoints for the original palazzo and stunning spaces for music and visual arts, allowing the museum to showcase exceptional contemporary works and artists. Rather than clash or compete with the original building, Piano's wing simply provides a new glass through which to view Mrs. Gardner's palazzo.

From almost anywhere in the new building are uninterrupted prospects of the palace and gardens through transparent walls. After you tour the museum, stroll through the Fens , a long green space, where you'll find a beautiful rose garden in bloom from June through October.

Author's Tip: The Gardner is only a few steps from the Museum of Fine Arts, making it tempting to combine them in one day. But unless art is your passion, it's best to see them on different days, so you can appreciate each. Visiting the Gardner is to immerse yourself not just in art, but in the 15th- and 16th-century artistic world of Renaissance Italy.

Address: 280 The Fenway, Boston, Massachusetts

Nicknamed Old Ironsides , USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy, and is still commanded and crewed by Navy personnel. The ship is open to visitors, who can go below desks and hear about the ship's construction and action at sea.

Across the pier, the USS Constitution Museum provides historical context through interactive exhibits that illustrate life aboard a naval vessel two centuries ago. Another ship you can tour here is the Cassin Young , a World War II destroyer.

Charlestown Navy Yard is part of the Boston National Historical Park, and it's a short walk to the Bunker Hill Monument and Museum, also in the park. The 221-foot-tall granite monument marks the hilltop site of the earthen fort built by New England soldiers prior to the Battle of Bunker Hill, the first pitched battle of the American Revolution.

Address: Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, Massachusetts

Exhibits in the extensive Museum of Science encourage learning through hands-on exploration of science and technology, but the museum is not just for children. Physics, biology, chemistry, ecology, zoology, astronomy, computers, and more are explored in more than 700 permanent, hands-on exhibits that are enhanced by stage presentations and interpreters. I find it every bit as engaging as my children do, and can easily spend a whole day here.

Highlights are a 65-million-year-old fossil discovered in the Dakota Badlands, an electricity dome with continuing programs, the Butterfly Garden where you can walk among free-flying butterflies in a conservatory filled with exotic plants, a live animal center, a chance to join local meteorologists to learn weather forecasting, and ComputerPlace , where you can operate a robot and explore how your computer stores information. The planetarium presents daily laser and star shows, and the Mugar Omni Theater has a five-story domed screen.

Author's Tip: Save money on a family day at the museum by bringing your own lunch. You are welcome to enjoy it in the Atrium, on the front plaza, or at picnic tables behind the museum. No snacking in the exhibit areas, though.

Address: Science Park, Boston, Massachusetts

Harvard University , founded in 1636, is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and is widely considered one of the world's leading academic centers. Go to the Harvard Information Center to take a spirited and entertaining free walking tour of the campus guided by a student who will share history, Harvard lore, and personal perspective. Or you can download a tour from their website.

Harvard Yard sits right in Harvard Square , a lively hub for students, "townies," and visitors, filled with shops, bookstores, and allegedly more places to buy ice cream than any other U.S. city.

Adjoining Harvard Yard is the Renzo Piano-designed home of the Harvard Art Museums , including three formerly separate collections, each of which ranked high as major U.S. art museums. Few universities have such enviable collections. Fogg Art Museum concentrates on Italian early-Renaissance art, the Busch-Reisinger on Expressionist art of central and northern Europe, with Bauhaus objects and paintings by Kandinsky and Klee.

Another important feature of the museums is one of the world's best collections of Chinese jade, as well as Chinese bronzes, Japanese prints, Indian art, and Greco-Roman antiquities, especially vases and sculptures.

If you're as bookish as I am, don't miss browsing in The Harvard Bookstore , just across Massachusetts Ave. from The Yard. Not associated with the University, this indy store has been a fixture in this same spot since 1932.

If you're looking for Harvard insignia souvenirs, the place to go is the Harvard Coop , across the square.

Address: 32 Quincy Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Boston's lively Italian neighborhood, known as the North End, is one of Boston's oldest, where the silversmith and activist leader Paul Revere lived at the time of the American Revolution. The Paul Revere House, which he bought in 1770 and lived in when he made his famous ride, is the only patriot's home on the Freedom Trail, and is open to tour.

You can climb to the tower of Old North Church , where lanterns were hung in April 1775 to alert Paul Revere that British troops were headed to Lexington to arrest the patriot leaders and confiscate the munitions supplies. The beautiful white interior of the church still retains its historic box pews.

The North End is a favorite spot for tourists for reasons that go well beyond its important historic sights. Although it has changed a bit over the years since it was filled with newly arrived immigrants from Italy, it retains its Italian character and lively flair.

You'll find Italian restaurants; cafes; bakeries; and shops fragrant with aromas of cured olives, fresh-roasted coffee, and Italian cheeses. For my family, Modern Pastry on Hanover St. is a required stop, for cannoli and pignoli cookies.

You'll also find the North Bennet Street School , where skills such as bookbinding, cabinet and furniture making, carpentry, silver and gold work, and violin making are taught. Their gallery shop is like a museum of fine craftsmanship and a good place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts.

On the night of December 16, 1773, more than a year before the first battle of the American Revolution, angry Bostonians protesting a tax on goods shipped to the colonies, stormed ships from England and threw the tea into the harbor at this site. With full-scale replicas of the original ships from which the Sons of Liberty dumped tea overboard, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum offers tours with a participatory reenactment of that event.

Costumed historical interpreters lead visitors through that historic night, through interactive exhibits, films, and multi-sensory experiences. Of course, everyone gets to dump tea into the harbor. In the museum, you'll see the only known tea chest from that ill-fated cargo.

This is more a history-as-entertainment attraction than a living history museum. But kids are drawn into the fun as they learn about shipboard life and American history, so it's no wonder this is one of the favorite things to do for families in Boston.

Address: 306 Congress Street, Boston, Massachusetts

Overlooking the waterfront, the New England Aquarium features more than 20,000 fish and aquatic animals representing over 550 species. A man-made Caribbean coral reef houses a large variety of tropical fish and underwater life including sharks, turtles, and moray eels. The Edge of the Sea touch tank allows visitors to handle small invertebrates like crabs, starfish, and urchins.

Outside the aquarium, visitors can watch harbor seals play, perform, and live in their enclosed habitat. The New England Aquarium also sponsors educational programs and whale-watching tours outside of Boston Harbor, and the adjacent IMAX Theater shows 40-minute films on nature subjects.

To be sure of admission at this popular family attraction, reserve timed entry tickets in advance. Nearby parking is expensive, but it's easy to get here by public transit; the aquarium has its own stop on the MBTA's Blue Line.

Address: Central Wharf, Boston, Massachusetts

Although the four Harvard Museums that make up this complex contain treasures such as the artifacts brought back by Lewis and Clark, for most people, the highlight is the more than 3,000 models of 830 species of flowers and plants, some with insects, and all so realistic that you will have trouble believing they are made of glass. I marvel at these anew, each time I see them.

Created between 1887 and 1936 by German artisans Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka, the flowers are unique in the world, and their secret process has never been replicated. These are part of Harvard's massive research collections, shown under one roof in the Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology , the Mineralogical Museum , the Museum of Comparative Zoology, and the Botanical Museum .

Particularly strong in Native American exhibits , the Peabody shows artifacts and art interpreted as part of a living culture, even when that culture has vanished. You can admire some of the finest examples of Native American arts from many periods and tribes, and also see how these changed as Europeans provided a new market for their goods.

Those who like the Victorian "Cabinet of Curiosities" feel of old traditional museums will love the Pacific Islands balcony - it's like stepping back a century. The Museum of Comparative Zoology , founded by Louis Agassiz in 1859, contains an extensive collection of fossils, including a 25,000-year-old mastodon . The mineralogy collections include a dazzling display of rough and cut gemstones , a world-renowned meteorite collection, rocks, ores, and minerals from around the world.

Address: 26 Oxford Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Both atmospheric and fashionable, Boston's Back Bay (it was once under water, before a hill was leveled to fill it in) is the heart of the 19 th -century city, home of the "Proper Bostonian" of legend. Streets of sedate Brownstone and brick townhouses line the grid of streets between the Public Garden and the Fenway, bounded on the north by Storrow Drive and the Charles River Esplanade.

Stroll its tree-lined streets, especially Newbury Street, to find an almost European atmosphere of small (mostly trendy) shops and boutiques, art galleries, and cafés and restaurants that spill out into sidewalk terraces. Architecture throughout the neighborhood is eclectic, with some fine examples of ornamental terra-cotta and brickwork.

I love walking through Back Bay residential streets at any time of year – in the spring when Magnolias bloom in the tiny front yards, in the winter when the wrought-iron fences sketch patterns against the snow, and in the fall when fallen leaves crunch underfoot.

The main square of the Back Bay area is surrounded by both old and ultra-modern buildings. One side is formed by the Boston Public Library , founded in 1848 as the first publicly funded lending library in the country. Architect Charles Follen McKim designed the present building in 1895.

Go inside to see the library's Renaissance Revival architecture and murals by John Singer Sargent and Edwin Abbey. Granite medallions over the entrance arches are the work of the pre-eminent American sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. The three sets of bronze doors in the vestibule were created by Daniel Chester French. Regular Art and Architecture Tours are among the several free things to do in Boston.

Author's Tip: Boston's best-kept secret may be the elegant afternoon teas served in the tearoom overlooking the beautiful Italianate Courtyard of the Boston Public Library. Crisp white linens and silver-edged crystal set the stage for proper tea sandwiches, scones, and trays of dainty sweets.

Facing the library, across a grassy lawn, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch with neighborhood office workers, is Trinity Church , a red sandstone building designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson in his distinctive style, known as Richardson Romanesque. Trinity is widely considered to be his finest work. The murals, frescoes, and painted decorations inside are by John La Farge and much of the fine stained glass is by Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris.

On a third side of the square is the venerable Boston institution, the Fairmont Copley Plaza ; these three buildings, backed by the sheer glass wall of a skyscraper, create a stunning cityscape. A block down Boylston Street, look for the finish line of the Boston Marathon , run each April on Patriot's Day.

Just beyond is the Prudential Center , a 32-acre complex of apartments, shops, restaurants, and a 52-story tower. On its 50th floor, you can visit the Skywalk observation deck for 360-degree views of Boston and its surroundings.

Address: 700 Boylston Street, At Copley Square, Boston, Massachusetts

At Rowes Wharf, you can board the Odyssey to cruise through Boston Harbor, from Castle Island to George's Island, then east to the Boston Light on Little Brewster Island, and back north to Charlestown Naval Yard before returning to the wharf.

You can enjoy lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch as you savor the views of the Boston skyline from the water. The skyline is especially beautiful at night when you can take a starlight or full moon cruise.

You can travel outside the confines of Boston Harbor on Boston Whale Watching Cruises , for a chance to see humpback and fin whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises, in the wild. This three-hour, naturalist-led tours are very popular and claim to have whale sightings on every trip.

Dedicated to the memory of the 35th U.S. President, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is the official national memorial to JFK, designed by noted architect I.M. Pei and opened in 1979. The museum, which stands on the shore south of the city, features three theaters, personal memorabilia, photographs, and historical exhibits that document the life of JFK and his presidency.

Exhibits cover the presidential campaign trail, the Oval Office, First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, and the Kennedy family. Interactive experiences here include the free and family-friendly Highlights tours and the Hands-on Cart programs, which include the PT-109 story and a closer look at the Race for Space.

Address: Columbia Point, Boston

One of Boston's most beautiful neighborhoods and right in the center of the city, the south side of Beacon Hill has traditionally been the home of Boston's "old money" families, known locally as "Brahmins." Well-kept brick homes in Federal and Greek Revival styles line its tree-shaded streets, and at its heart is Louisburg Square, where homes face onto a leafy private park. Author Louisa May Alcott lived here from 1880 to 1888.

The Nichols House Museum , a Federal-style home by Boston architect Charles Bulfinch, shows how Beacon Hill's upper-class residents lived and is filled with collections of 16th- to 19th-century furnishings and decorative arts. At the western foot of Beacon Hill, Charles Street is lined with boutiques and shops that have traditionally catered to the neighborhood and are popular with visitors as well. Beyond Charles Street, facing the Public Garden, The Bull and Finch , established in 1969, inspired the popular television program, Cheers .

Restaurants and cafes come and go quickly along classy Charles St, but one that has maintained its elegant ambiance and traditional Tuscan country menu is Toscano , where you can dine on melt-in-the-mouth veal scaloppini or a simple four-cheese pizza.

The north side of Beacon Hill is far more modest and has been home to immigrants, including a sizable African American community, since the early 19th century. National Park Service Rangers offer free guided tours of the Black Heritage Trail from April through November and you can follow the trail on a self-guided tour year-round.

The Boston African American National Historic Site includes 15 pre-Civil War homes, businesses, schools, and churches that give a picture of Boston's 19th-century African American community. The Museum of Afro-American History operates the African Meeting House , the country's oldest (1806) church built by and for Black Americans and now restored to its 1854 appearance.

The 1834 Abiel Smith School was the first public grammar school for African American children. Displays at both include artifacts, films, art, and sculpture related to the black experience in Boston and New England.

The Boston waterfront has seen many changes since its early beginnings as a colonial shipping port. After a period of decline for much of the 20th century, new life was breathed into the area in the mid-1970s with an ambitious redevelopment plan.

Today, this interesting mix of residential and commercial space is connected by HarborWalk , an attractive walkway along the waterfront, with parks, public art, benches, cafés, interpretive signs, and access to several means of exploring the harbor by cruise boat, ferry, or water taxi. A shuttle boat also runs to the Charlestown Navy Yard .

Although it extends from Charlestown to South Boston – and will expand considerably farther – the part you won't want to miss goes from the North End through the wisteria-draped pergola of Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park , past Commercial Wharf, India Wharf, and Long Wharf , and by Rowes Wharf before curving along the harbor into the vibrant Seaport District to the Institute of Contemporary Art , an art museum dramatically cantilevered above the water.

One of the newest of Boston's many public parks and green spaces, the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway fills the swath of downtown Boston left bare by the removal of the elevated Central Artery.

Nearly 1.5 miles of parks and gardens connect several diverse neighborhoods, including the financial district, the North End, Chinatown and Faneuil Hall Market, all just a few steps from the linear park.

Public art, gardens, benches, a farmers' market, food trucks, and playgrounds enliven the park, along with a fanciful carousel of whimsical animals, where children can ride on rabbits, a butterfly, turtle, lobster, or a grasshopper. All 36 creatures on the Greenway Carousel were inspired by drawings made by Boston school children. The carousel is specially designed to be accessible to adults and youth with disabilities.

The Boston Symphony Orchestra gave its inaugural concert in 1881, and its first at Symphony Hall , one of the world's most acoustically perfect concert halls, when it opened in 1900. Over more than a century of history, its conductors have included greats such as Pierre Monteux, Serge Koussevitzky, Charles Munch, Seiji Ozawa, and James Levine.

In addition to its regular symphony season, the hall is home to the Boston Pops Orchestra , which sets an international standard for performances of lighter music. For many visitors, the highlight of a trip is a Pops concert, either in Symphony Hall or at the Hatch Memorial Shell , an Art Deco outdoor music shell on the riverside Esplanade that has become a Boston landmark.

The shell hosts a regular program of concerts and other special events, and is especially famous for the Boston Pop's yearly performance of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture on July 4th. Audiences sit on the lawn in front of the shell with views of Cambridge, Back Bay, and Beacon Hill, and the Pops orchestra is accompanied by real cannon fire and ringing Boston church bells.

Following the concert is a spectacular fireworks display over the river; both are televised all over New England. When I lived on River St, a block from the Esplanade, I took my lawn chair and a book to a grassy spot near the Shell at 10 am to get the best spot; now you'll have to wait until noon to stake your claim.

You can go behind the scenes on a tour of Symphony Hall where you'll hear the history and traditions of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, its musicians and conductors.

Address: 301 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts

A "museum of trees," the Arnold Arboretum is especially colorful in the fall, when the maples are ablaze in reds and yellows, and in the spring, when cherry trees, lilacs, or magnolias are in full bloom. But the Arnold Arboretum is beautiful all 12 months of the year. When the trails through its 281 acres are covered in snow, they are popular places to snowshoe and cross-country ski.

A National Historic Landmark , designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead, the Arboretum is maintained by Harvard University , which uses it as a teaching laboratory. Along with a wide variety of trees, shrubs, vines, and perennial flowering plants, are exceptional collections of lilacs, azaleas, and rhododendrons; the Bonsai & Penjing Collection is also a highlight.

The Explorers Garden , occupying a small microclimate within the grounds, is home to two of the world's largest Franklin trees, a species now extinct in the wild. Docent-led tours range from quarter-mile introductions suitable for all abilities to a 90-minute Keeper's Tour.

Address: 125 Arborway, Boston, Massachusetts

The 150-acre MIT campus is of special interest to fans of modern and postmodern architecture , a living museum of works by noted architects including Alvar Aalto, Eduardo Catalano, I. M. Pei, Frank Gehry, and Eero Saarinen.

In addition, the campus displays hundreds of sculptures and art installations that you can see with the help of a self-guided walking tour map, by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, Alexander Calder, Jacques Lipchitz, and Auguste Rodin. In the Hart Nautical Gallery are ship models, and the Compton Gallery shows contemporary art.

Address: 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Official site: www.mit.edu

Most of Boston's major tourist attractions are relatively close to the downtown area and Boston Common, where the Freedom Trail begins. Beacon Hill, Copley Square, and the Waterfront/North End are all within easy reach of these highly-rated hotels in Boston.

Luxury Hotels :

• These hotels are in Boston's most prestigious - and convenient - locations: Copley Square and Beacon Hill. Fairmont Copley Plaza is the Grand Dame of Boston hotels, an elegant and gracious landmark property overlooking Copley Square and minutes from the Public Garden's Swan Boats.
• The intimate Lenox Hotel is known for personal attention in the heart of Back Bay, adjacent to Prudential Center and Copley Square, close to museums and Newbury Street shopping.
• XV Beacon crowns historic and fashionable Beacon Hill, next to the State House and overlooking Boston Common.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Boston's waterfront extends from the North End Italian neighborhood to the newly blossoming Seaport area, handy to harbor cruises, seafood dining, museums, and historic sites. Boston Marriott Long Wharf overlooks Boston Harbor, close to the New England Aquarium and North End attractions.
• Seaport Boston Hotel guests enjoy sweeping views across Boston Harbor and the downtown skyline, excellent service, and a no-tipping policy in the hotel and its restaurants.
• In a skillfully repurposed brick factory building, Residence Inn Boston Downtown Seaport is steps from the Boston Children's Museum and downtown attractions.

Budget Hotels:

• Even Boston's budget-friendly options are conveniently close to the center. The Revolution Hotel , in the chic South End restaurant and arts neighborhood, has double, triple, and quad rooms, some with shared dorm-style bathrooms.
• Especially handy to sports and entertainment events at TD Garden, Hotel Indigo Boston Garden is an easy walk to the North End and Quincy Market.
• Across the street from the TD Boston Garden, and within walking distance of the North End, citizenM Boston North Station has tech-savvy, soundproof rooms.

Sightseeing:

• For first-time visitors to Boston, the best way to see the attractions and get acquainted with the city layout is to take a Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour . This tour stops at all the major tourist attractions and gives you the freedom to stop where you want and see the city at your own pace.

Day Trip to Martha's Vineyard:

• Explore more of the Bay State with a 12-hour Day Trip to Martha's Vineyard , traveling by bus through Cape Cod to Falmouth, before boarding the scenic cruise to the beautiful island of Martha's Vineyard. Here, you'll have six hours to explore the island on your own, or you can add a guided bus tour to see Gay Head Light and the historic village of Edgartown.

Day Trip to Newport:

• See the famous summer palaces of Belle Epoch society on the Boston to Newport Small-Group Day Trip with Breakers & Marble House Admission . On an 11-hour small group tour of "America's First Resort" you'll visit the two most famous mansions, as well as Cliff Walk, Ocean Drive, and St. Mary's Church, where Jack and Jacky Kennedy were married.

If you're looking for a seamless vacation packed with fun adventures and ideal weather conditions, the best time of year to go to Boston is during the late spring and early fall . This is technically Boston's high season.

From May through the end of June , things are starting to warm up nicely. You're looking at highs in the upper 60s to high 70s and more comfortable lows in the 50s. Not too hot nor too cold, these temps are perfect for wandering the streets all day. Still, you'll want to pack layers to be sure you're prepared for the fluctuating temperatures.

The months of September and October also present visitors with optimal highs in the mid-60s (October) to high 70s (September). Lows range between high 40s to high 50s. Again, you'll likely need layers. At this time, you'll witness an impressive sight: vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues envelop the city in the form of fall foliage, especially towards the end of October, rewarding photographers with picture-perfect backdrops.

Boston hotels will be more expensive during this time, and you can expect to see larger crowds of tourists, but overall, late spring and early fall are the best times to visit Boston . Since many of the city's best attractions are outside (i.e. the Freedom Trail and Fenway Park ), you're guaranteed an enjoyable visit that allows you to visit the city's most popular points of interest with ease. Plus, you'll be able to ride a Swan Boat in Boston Common . This "ride" is closed during the cold winter months.

More on Massachusetts

28 Historical Sites in Boston And Tourist Attractions YOU Can’t Miss

You don’t have to go far to find the best historical sites in Boston . The city has made many contributions to American history. And is often the center of current events today.

This historical city with many sites that date back to the founding of the United States . Some of the most popular historical sites in Boston are the Freedom Trail, the USS Constitution Museum , and the Boston Tea Party Museum. These sites are all great places to learn about the history of Boston and the United States.

Why Visit Historic Downtown Boston?

Boston is rich in history, and its downtown area is the perfect place to explore on foot. Many of the sites related to the American Revolution are located downtown. Including the Freedom Trail, the site of the Boston Massacre, and the Old State House .

But Boston isn’t all about history. It is also an entertaining city with a lot of great things going on.

historical sites in Boston tourist attractions

Boston Historic Sites Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile self-guided walking tour. And visits a series of historic sites in downtown Boston, Massachusetts . The colonial government built it to guide British soldiers through the city during the American Revolution. Today, visitors use the trail to learn about the history of the United States.

The sixteen sites on the Freedom Trail –

Boston common, massachusetts state house.

• Park Street Church
• Old Granary Burying Ground
• Kings Chapel
• Kings Chapel Burying Ground

Benjamin Franklin Statue

• Old Corner Bookstore

Old South Meeting House

Old state house, boston massacre site.

• Faneuil Hall

Paul Revere House

• Old North Church

Copps Hill Burial Ground

• USS Constitution

Bunker Hill

Bunker Hill has many contributions to history. Bunker Hill was a battle fought during the American Revolutionary War . It took place on Breed’s Hill, which lies near Charlestown, Massachusetts.

Today you can visit still visit this historical site in Boston . And see the Bunker hill monument and lodge, which is nearby and not actually on the bunker hill site. This is a highly recommended site.

Boston Harbor

Boston Harbor is one of the oldest harbors in the United States. It was first settled by Native Americans around 1000 AD. In 1630, the English built Fort Massachusetts here. During the American Revolution , the British used the fort as a base of operations against the colonists. After the war, the fort became part of the city of Boston. Today, the fort is open to visitors.

This historical site is also the location of the famous Boston Tea Party.

The Boston Tea Party took place on December 16, 1773, when colonists dumped hundreds of chests of tea into Boston Harbor. It was a protest against British taxes imposed on American colonies. Without representation in Parliament.

Boston Haymarket

Boston Haymarket, also called the South End Market, is the oldest continuously operating open-air market in the United States. The market dates back to 1806 when it was established by the city to sell hay and straw. Over the years, it has developed into a vibrant marketplace selling fresh produce, meat, seafood, and prepared foods. The market is open year-round, focusing especially on local and seasonal produce in the summer months.

Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum.

Although the original ship that the Boston Tea Party destroyed many years ago. The Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum offers visitors the chance to experience what it was like on board the ship during the famous event. Visitors can learn about the events leading up to the Boston Tea Party , as well as see what life was like on board a ship during the 18th century. The museum also features a replica of the ship, which visitors can explore.

Faneuil Hall marketplace

Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a must-see historical site in Boston. The marketplace comprises four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market. Faneuil Hall is the oldest of the four buildings and has been a marketplace and meeting hall since 1742. They built Quincy Market in 1824 and are now home to over 100 shops and restaurants. They built North Market and South Market in the early 1900s. The marketplace is a popular tourist destination and is always bustling with activity.

Old Granary Burying Ground Boston

The Old Granary Burying Ground is one of the most historic sites in Boston. It is the last resting place for many of the city’s most famous figures, including Paul Revere , John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and Benjamin Franklin. The graveyard is also a beautiful spot, with its carefully manicured lawns and weeping willows. Visitors can explore the graveyard’s many monuments and headstones, and get a sense of Boston’s rich history.

Massachusetts Historical Society Galleries

The Massachusetts Historical Society is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to preserving. And sharing the history of Massachusetts. Founded in 1791, the Society is the oldest historical society in the United States. The Society’s collections include over 21 million items, from books and manuscripts to photographs and artworks. The Massachusetts Historical Society is also home to the Adams Family Papers. Which is one of the most important collections of primary source materials for the study of American history. Things like the Robert Treat Paine papers.

Robert Treat Paine was a wealthy merchant. And his papers are a collection of documents about the life and work of Robert Treat Paine. Who were a signer of the Declaration of Independence and one of the founding fathers of the United States of America? The collection includes correspondence, legal documents, and financial records. And other papers dating from the mid-1700s to the early 1800s. The papers provide insights into Paine’s personal life. And his public career offers a unique perspective on the American Revolution and the early years of the Republic.

The Massachusetts State House , also known as the “New State House” is in the heart of downtown Boston on Beacon Hill. The building houses the Massachusetts General Court and the offices of the Governor of Massachusetts. And the State House is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public Monday through Saturday. Those interested in the architectural history of Boston will want to visit this historic site. One of the best neighborhoods in Boston.

Visiting the Paul Revere House is like taking a step back in time. The historic site, which is in the North End of Boston, is the actual home that the famous patriot lived in during the 18th century. A visit to the Paul Revere House is a must for anyone interested in American history.

The Paul Revere House is the oldest in downtown Boston, Massachusetts, and one of the few remaining buildings from the colonial era.

There is no better place to start a visit to Boston than the Boston Common. This is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Actually, in the country! And has been a gathering place for Bostonians for centuries. The park is home to many historical landmarks. Including the architectural wonder that is the State House. The Freedom Trail starts here as well. And the Boston Common was the site of the first public school in America. The Boston Commons is also a great place for people to watch, as it is always full of locals and tourists alike.

Park Street Church Boston

This is where William Lloyd Garrison gave his famous anti-slavery speech in 1829. Also, look inside the Old State House, which is now a museum. It was here that the Declaration of Independence was first read to the people of Boston in 1776. Take a walk along the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking path that takes you to 16 different historical sites. Some highlights include the Old North Church . And the site of the Boston Massacre, and Faneuil Hall, where Samuel Adams gave some of his famous speeches.

historical sites in Boston: Kings Chapel

Kings Chapel is the oldest standing stone building in Boston. And the only remaining example of a stone building constructed in the city during the colonial period. They built the Chapel in 1688 as an Anglican church and was the first Anglican church in Boston. The Chapel is now a Unitarian Universalist church and is open to the public for tours and services.

The Boston Tea Party Museum

The Boston Tea Party Museum is on the site of the famous Boston Tea Party of 1773. They housed the museum in a replica of the tea ship “Beaver,” and features exhibits on the history of the Tea Party and the American Revolution. The museum is open to the public for tours and special events.

ViKings Chapel Burial Ground

The Kings Chapel Burial Ground is one of the most historical sites in Boston . It is the last resting place for many of the city’s most notable citizens, including John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and Paul Revere . The burial ground is also a beautiful and serene spot, with well-manicured gardens and a peaceful atmosphere.

A newer historical site in Boston, MA. American sculptor Horatio Greenough created the Benjamin Franklin Statue in 1856. They made the statue of marble and granite and stands 26 feet tall. The statue depicts Benjamin Franklin in a toga with his right hand outstretched. Visitors to the site can take a photo of the statue, learn about its history of the statue, and view the surrounding area.

The Old South Meeting House is one of Boston’s most historic sites. It was here that the city’s residents gathered to plan the Boston Tea Party and to hear speeches by Samuel Adams and other patriot leaders. The Meeting House is now a museum that tells the story of the American Revolution and the fight for freedom.

The Old State House was built in 1713. And is the oldest surviving public building in Boston and the site of several important events during the American Revolution. The building now houses a museum with exhibits about the Revolution and early American history.

The site of the Boston Massacre is now a national historic landmark , tough not as old as historical sites in Rome . And in one of the most historic neighborhoods in Boston. And a small plaque marks the approximate spot where the first shots were fired. The nearby Old State House is also worth a visit. And not just because it is like an architectural wonder. But It’s the oldest surviving public building in Boston, and it has a museum dedicated to the events leading up to the American Revolution. The contributions and history that happened on this site have shaped American history.

historical sites in Boston: Old North Church

The oldest standing church in Boston, Old North Church , is most famous for its role in the American Revolution. On April 18, 1775, Paul Revere saw two lanterns in the Old North Church tower, signaling that the British were coming by sea, not by land. This warning allowed American patriots to prepare for the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Known as the “shot heard round the world” and the beginning of the American Revolution.

This small cemetery is the ultimate resting place for many of Boston’s earliest settlers, who arrived in the 1600s. The cemetery is also the site of the city’s first public school, and the first church bell cast by Paul Revere.

A visit to the Copps Hill Burial Ground is a step back in time to early Boston. This small cemetery is the last resting place for many of the city’s earliest settlers, who arrived in the 1600s. The cemetery is also the site of the city’s first public school, and the first church bell cast by Paul Revere. A walk through the cemetery is a moving experience and a reminder of the city’s rich history.

historical sites in Boston: Boston Harbor Islands

You can explore history at the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. And Harbor islands are only a short ferry ride from Boston and offer a variety of historical sites to visit. The islands were once home to Native Americans. And later served as a strategic military location during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Today, the islands are a popular recreation destination. With hiking trails, beaches , and picnicking areas. Visitors can also take a tour of the historic Boston Light, the oldest working lighthouse in the United States.

Best Historical Sites Near Boston

Bunker Hill Monument, Charlestown Mass.

This granite monument commemorates one of the first battles of the American Revolution . The Battle of Bunker Hill was fought on June 17, 1775. The 221-foot-tall monument is the tallest obelisk in the United States.

This 221-foot granite obelisk marks the site of the first major battle of the Revolutionary War , which was fought on June 17, 1775. The monument, which is reached by a 294-step staircase, offers stunning views of Boston and its harbor.

Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House in Concord, MA

Just outside of Boston in Concord, Massachusetts, is the Orchard House, the former home of author Louisa May Alcott. The house, built in 1858, is where Alcott wrote and set her classic novel Little Women. Today, the house is a museum that is open to the public for tours. Visitors can see Alcott’s bedroom, the parlor where she wrote Little Women, and the kitchen where the family prepared their meals. The Orchard House is a must-see for any fan of Little Women or anyone interested in American literature and history.

The Orchard House is the historic home of author Louisa May Alcott and her family. The house is in Concord, Massachusetts, a town about 20 miles outside of Bean Town, of the best nicknames for Boston .

Minuteman Trail National Park, Concord

The Minutemen Trail National Park commemorates the site where the first shots of the American Revolution were fired. And a key victory was secured by the Continental Army. Also, look at the Lexington Battle Green where the first shots were fired.

This is a great place to learn about the American Revolution. And to walk the same path that the British and American troops did during the battles of Lexington and Concord.

Walden Pond State Reservation, Concord

This is the site where Henry David Thoreau, who has some of the best quotes on camping . And lived in a small cabin for two years, two months, and two days while he wrote Walden; or, Life in the Woods. Visitors can still see remnants of his cabin and hike the many trails in the area.

Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Salem

This site is dedicated to the maritime history of Salem, Massachusetts. And features several historic buildings, exhibits, and tall ships. Visitors can take a tour of historic ships, attend events and programs, and explore the area on their own.

USS Constitution (‘Old Ironsides’)

The USS Constitution Museum is dedicated to the history of the ship and the people who served on her. The Museum tells the story of the commissioned warship “Old Ironsides” . From her beginnings as a plan to build her, through her many battles and her time as a sailing school vessel, to her present status as a floating Museum. And the Museum is in Boston, Massachusetts, in the Charlestown Navy Yard. The Museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission is free.

Boston public library

The Boston Public Library is one of the oldest and most renowned public libraries in the United States. Founded in 1848, the Boston Public Library has been a pioneer in public library service. As well as innovating and expanding its services to meet the changing needs of its patrons over the years. Today, the Boston Public Library is a world-class research library. With an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and other materials. The Library also offers a wide variety of programs and events for all ages, making it a vibrant part of the Boston community.

Boston Public Garden

The Boston Public Garden is a beautiful park in the heart of Boston. It is home to a variety of flowers, trees, and sculptures. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Newbury Street

Newbury Street is a famous shopping street in Boston. It is home to a variety of high-end stores and boutiques. Newbury Street is also a great place to people-watch and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

Beacon Street

Beacon Street is a beautiful residential street in Boston. It is lined with historic homes and brownstones. Beacon Street is a great place to take a walk or bike ride and enjoy the city’s architecture.

Castle Island

Castle Island is a peninsula in Boston Harbor that is home to a variety of historical sites. These include Fort Independence, the Charlestown Navy Yard, and the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. Castle Island is a great place to learn about Boston’s maritime history.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a museum of art located in Boston. The museum houses an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and other works of art. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a great place to learn about European art history.

Columbia Point

Columbia Point is a peninsula in Boston Harbor that is home to a variety of parks and recreation facilities. These include Castle Island, the Boston Harborwalk, and the John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library & Museum. Columbia Point is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and learn about Boston’s history.

Trinity Church

Trinity Church is a historic Episcopal church in Boston. The church was built in the 18th century and is one of the most important churches in Boston. Trinity Church is a great place to learn about Boston’s religious history.

Charles Street

Charles Street is a beautiful street in Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood. It is lined with historic homes, shops, and restaurants. Charles Street is a great place to take a walk or bike ride and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world. The museum houses a vast collection of art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and other works of art. The Museum of Fine Arts is a great place to learn about art history.

Black Heritage Trail

The Black Heritage Trail is a walking tour of Boston that highlights the city’s African American history. The trail includes a variety of historic sites, including the African Meeting House, the Old South Meeting House, and the Crispus Attucks House. The Black Heritage Trail is a great way to learn about Boston’s African American history.

Louisburg Square

Louisburg Square is a beautiful residential square in Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood. It is lined with historic homes and brownstones. Louisburg Square is a great place to take a walk or bike ride and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

Griffin’s Wharf

Griffin’s Wharf is a historic wharf in Boston Harbor. It is one of the oldest wharves in Boston and was once a major center of trade. Griffin’s Wharf is a great place to learn about Boston’s maritime history.

Botanical Gardens

The Arnold Arboretum is a botanical garden located in Boston. The garden is home to a vast collection of plants from around the world. The Arnold Arboretum is a great place to learn about plant life and enjoy the outdoors.

Copley Square

Copley Square is a public square in Boston. It is home to a variety of historic buildings, including the Boston Public Library, the Trinity Church, and the John Hancock Tower. Copley Square is a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

Kendall Square

Kendall Square is a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood in Boston’s Seaport District. It is home to a number of cutting-edge technology companies, as well as several universities and colleges. Kendall Square is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with a number of parks and green spaces.

Busch-Reisinger Museum

The Busch-Reisinger Museum is a museum of European art located in Harvard University’s Fogg Museum. The museum houses a collection of over 50,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The Busch-Reisinger Museum is a great place to learn about European art history.

Georges Island

Georges Island is a small island located in Boston Harbor. It is home to a number of historical sites, including Fort Warren and the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. Georges Island is a great place to learn about Boston’s maritime history.

Boylston Street

Boylston Street is a famous shopping street in Boston. It is home to a variety of high-end stores and boutiques. Boylston Street is also a great place to people-watch and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

South Boston

South Boston is a historic neighborhood in Boston. It is home to a number of landmarks, including the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution Museum. South Boston is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with a number of parks and green spaces.

Lovells Island

Lovells Island is a small island located in Boston Harbor. It is home to a number of historical sites, including Fort Independence and the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. Lovells Island is a great place to learn about Boston’s maritime history.

Bates Hall is the main reading room of the Harvard College Library. It is home to a vast collection of books and is a great place to study or simply relax and read a book.

If you are looking for a place rich in American history, then Boston is the perfect travel destination for you. All you need to do is plan a trip with google maps and hit the road.

It was the home to many of our founding fathers. And where many historical events took place. With larger-than-life historical figures like John Adams and George Washington. 

The city is home to many historical sites like the Boston National Historical Park . As well as the Bunker Hill Monument, and many other Boston attractions . From the greater Boston area, from east Boston to the north end, there is a historic site that offers a glimpse into the nation’s past. From the Freedom Trail to Fenway Park, there are plenty of opportunities to learn. Not only about the country’s history but also enjoying the city’s modern amenities. What Historical sites in Boston are you visiting first!

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The Best Historical Sites You Won’t Find on The Freedom Trail

Stray off the beaten path to discover Boston's less-known histories.

From day trips to weekend getaways, our biweekly Traveler newsletter shows you the best of New England and beyond.

It’s no secret that Boston is chock-full of history. Home to the original New England patriots and a rather famous Tea Party, Boston has plenty of appealing spots for history fans to visit. While the story of the American Revolution lives on through the sites on the city’s famous Freedom Trail, the Commonwealth’s lesser-known, but equally compelling, histories can be found from Back Bay to Boston’s suburbs. Tourists and locals alike should check out these off-the-beaten-path historical sites for a new perspective of our city’s storied past.

Photo by Madeline Bilis

Boston Molasses Flood Plaque

While “The Great Molasses Flood” might sound like the name of a children’s book, the reality of the 1919 disaster was more like a scene out of a horror film. When a 50-foot-tall steel tank of molasses exploded on Commercial Street in the North End, spewing over 2 million gallons of the thick, sticky syrup, a wave moving at 35 miles per hour overtook the neighborhood. People suffocated on the molasses, as passerbys, horses, and buildings were engulfed in the flood, resulting in a total of 21 deaths. Now, a small green plaque at the intersection of Commercial Street and Copps Hill pays homage to the disaster and its victims.

Free, 529 Commercial St., Boston.

Now managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and preserved as a National Historic landmark, Brook Farm was once the home of a famous Transcendentalist experiment in utopian, community living. Led by Unitarian minister and journalist George Ripley and his wife, Sophia, Brook Farm’s most notorious members and visitors included author Nathaniel Hawthorne, poet Ralph Waldo Emerson, and journalist Margaret Fuller. Today, visitors can explore the farm via walking trails and bring lunch to enjoy in the picnic area.

Free, sunrise to sunset, 670 Baker St., West Roxbury, 617-698-1802, mass.gov .

Ether Dome photo by Madeline Bilis

The Ether Dome at Massachusetts General Hospital

Boston is no stranger to great medicine , so it’s no surprise our city was home to some pretty incredible medical firsts. In 1846, dental surgeon William T.G. Morton became the first doctor to successfully administer ether, an inhalable anesthetic, in a public surgery performed in Mass General’s surgical amphitheater. You can visit the amphitheater, dubbed the Ether Dome, which includes a collection of artifacts, antique surgical tools, an oil painting of the landmark surgery, and an Egyptian mummy named Padihershef.

Free, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 4th Floor, Bulfinch Building, 55 Fruit St., Boston, massgeneral.org .

The First UFO Sighting in America at Muddy River

Unidentified Flying Objects and tales of science fiction existed long before E.T soared across the big screen in a bike. In fact, the first UFO sighting happened right here in the colonial Commonwealth nearly four hundred years ago. In 1639, John Winthrop, governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, wrote about a baffling experience on the Muddy River. Winthrop reported that three Puritan men had seen a great light moving “as swift as an arrow” which seemingly transported their boat a mile upstream. Whether or not you believe the Puritan’s experience on the Muddy River was the work of extraterrestrial forces, you can visit the site of their curious encounter, located in the Emerald Necklace’s Back Bay Fens.

Free, 125 The Fenway, Boston, 617-522-2700, emeraldnecklace.org .

The Frederick Law Olmsted House

If you’ve ever admired the beauty of New York City’s Central Park or Boston’s Emerald Necklace, you have Frederick Law Olmsted to thank. Considered the father of American landscape architecture, Olmsted can be credited with designing many of the nation’s parks, from Brooklyn to Detroit. After moving to Brookline in 1883, Olmsted established the first-ever professional landscape architecture firm in a restored farmhouse he named “Fairsted,” which is now overseen by the National Park Service.

Free, grounds open year-round sunrise to sunset, operating seasonally April-December, 99 Warren St., Brookline, 617-566-1689, nps.gov .

Fort Warren on Georges Island

Take a 50 minute ferry ride over to Georges Island, and visit historic Fort Warren. A granite and stone fort used as a prisoner-of-war camp during the Civil War, Fort Warren held Confederate officers and government officials, including Confederate Vice President Alexander Stephens and Confederate Postmaster General John Reagan. History buffs can take a guided tour of the site, visit exhibits on the history of Fort Warren, and hear ghost stories of the fabled Lady in Black.

Ferry prices vary, early May-Columbus Day, 66 Long Wharf, Boston, 617-227-4321, bostonharborislands.org .

Madonna Queen of the Universe Shrine

Overlooking Boston Harbor and the tarmacs of Logan Airport stands a 35-foot-tall statue of the Virgin Mary–East Boston’s Madonna Queen of the Universe. Commissioned by the fathers of the Don Orione order in 1954, the statue was meant to echo the order’s commitment to accompanying every work of charity with a work of faith. A replica of the original Madonna statue in Rome, both were created by sculptor Arrigo Minerbi, who took refuge from the 1940 Nazi invasion of Italy with the aid of the Don Orione Institution in Rome. Currently, Boston’s Madonna towers above the adjacent Don Orione Home, a rehabilitation center and nursing home.

Free, 111 Orient Ave., East Boston, donorionehome.org .

Photo courtesy of the Mary Baker Eddy Library

The Mapparium

Step inside a three-story, three-dimensional, stained glass globe, preserved to show the world exactly as it was in 1935. Designed by architect Chester Lindsay Churchill to represent the “world-consciousness” of the Christian Science Publishing Society, the globe was initially designed with replaceable glass panels that could be changed with shifting political boundaries. But in the 1960s, it was settled that the original design of the Mapparium should be preserved for its historical significance. Today, visitors at the Mary Baker Eddy Library can experience the Mapparium accompanied by “A World of Ideas” multimedia production, composed of narration, music, and LED lights.

$2-$6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 200 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, 617-450-7000, marybakereddylibrary.org .

Photo courtesy of photographer Leonid Kostrichkin

Museum of Modern Renaissance

The Museum of Modern Renaissance is not your typical glass-cased, under lock-and-key museum. In fact, this historic space is actually the home of Russian-born artists Nicolas Shaplyko and Ekaterina Sorokina, which they’ve transformed into their own extraordinarily colorful canvas. A Unitarian church and Masonic lodge in the 1900s, and said to be one of the first places where Paramahansa Yogananda introduced yoga to the U.S., the building is now covered inside and out in mesmerizing large scale murals . One hour guided tours are available by appointment for $200 per group, or you can visit the museum for free during the annual Somerville Open Studios the first weekend in May.

115 College Ave., Somerville, mod-renaissance.com .

Photograph courtesy of Warren Anatomical Museum

The Warren Anatomical Museum

Aspiring doctors and Grey’s Anatomy fanatics alike can marvel at the medical artifacts in this Harvard exhibition gallery. Founded in 1847 by Harvard anatomist and surgeon John Collins Warren, the Warren Anatomical Museum is one of few anatomy and pathology museums still operating in the U.S. The museum’s collection is meant to serve as a teaching and research resource, continuously expanding with new insights from Harvard’s health science community. Displays include the development of the stethoscope, surgery and the American Civil War, and the skull of Phineas Gage , one of psychology and neurology’s most notable patients, who survived getting impaled with an iron spike only to find his personality completely changed.

Free, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 10 Shattuck St., Boston, 617-432-2136, countway.harvard.edu .

Note: An earlier version of this post included the Sacred Cod, which can be found in the State House, which is on the Freedom Trail. We’ve removed it from this list, but still recommend checking it out .

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Welcome to Boston's Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile, red-lined route that leads to 16 historically significant sites — each one an authentic treasure. Explore museums and meetinghouses, churches, burying grounds and more. Learn about the brave people who shaped our nation. Experience over 250 years of history, and discover the rich history of the American Revolution as it began in Boston, where every step tells a story. 

More In This Section Click to Open

There are countless ways to explore the Freedom Trail and its official historic sites. From year-round immersive programs and activities at the 16 historic sites to public and private walking tours led by 18 th -century costumed guides, National Park Service's Park Rangers, and more, to self-guided tours by foot with a map, guide book, or audio guide, there are exciting and comfortable methods for everyone to enjoy the authentic history and sites where fights for American's freedoms were ignited.  Sample itineraries and resources are available to help plan visits to the Freedom Trail.

Walk the Freedom Trail and experience over 250 years of history! 

Freedom Trail Brochure

The Freedom Trail Official Online Brochure includes information on all 16 official Freedom Trail historic sites, a detailed map and more!

Visiting the Freedom Trail

Official historic sites.

Step inside the places where the American Revolution was launched, from pews and pulpits, private homes and public offices, with fiery speeches and midnight rides. Experience Boston's indoor/outdoor history experiences!

Walking Tours

Boston's official walking tours led by 18th-century costumes guides (or in plainclothes) are available for public or private groups 362 days per year. From individuals to large groups, tours bring history to life for everyone!

Freedom Trail Store

Purchase Freedom Trail guidebooks, educational items, combination joint tickets, Hear History audio guide, souvenirs and more!

Featured Tours

Walk into history®.

The Freedom Trail Foundation's most popular tour highlights the revolutionary history that took place at 11 of the 16 official Freedom Trail historic sites.

Tour Schedule

Daily, 10 am, 11 am,  12 noon, 1 pm  (plus 2 pm Sat. & Sun.) Purchase Tickets  

Revolutionary Women

Experience and discover the women who took part in the American Revolution, and the generations of women that followed, inaugurating their own struggles for freedom and equality.

March, select Saturdays-Sundays: 10:45 a.m.

Private & Custom

All Freedom Trail tours led by 18 th -century costumed guides are excellent for families, school field trips, corporate team building, incentives, and convention activities. These tours can be customized to fit your group's schedule and are available year round. 

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The 17 Best Things to Do in Boston

By Todd Plummer and Paul Rubio

Built on almost 400 years of history, Boston's character is as layered and distinct as a Kennedy accent. The city has reinvented itself countless times over, serving at different times and to different communities as the birthplace of the American Revolution, as an international academic capital, and as a biotech hub. Boston’s wharves whisper of tea parties, its libraries of literary greats, and its ballpark of curses broken. Each year, its famed universities keep this old city young with an ebb and flow of some 150,000 students from around the world—and these smarties keep the city lively round the clock.

All that, plus some of the finest  food and  drink make Boston one of America’s greatest and most enduring cities. Across its patchwork of squares, corners, and crossings, here are the best things to do in  Boston —including the occasional jaunt across the Charles River to neighboring  Cambridge —whether you're in town for Marathon Monday (better known as Patriot's Day around here), making a summer stop on your way to the Cape and islands , or on a fall foliage journey .

Read our complete Boston travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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This is one of  our favorite museums in Boston —and the country. At once intimate and unparalleled in its grandeur, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum draws on the vast art collection of its eponymous (and eccentric) founder, who had a thirst for travel, a bohemian lifestyle, and the fine luxuries of ancient cultures. Set within a Venetian-style palazzo, surrounding an elegant courtyard, masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, and John Singer Sargent share space with impressive architectural elements. Stewart Gardner herself delicately arranged the collection of more than 7,500 fine and decorative art objects, 2,700 books and manuscripts, and over 8,000 historic objects from around the world, including sculptures, furniture, textiles, metalworks, and ceramics, that she collected during her lifetime. A Renzo Piano–designed wing opened in 2012, and provides interdisciplinary, multipurpose space for contemporary artists, musicians and scholars.

New England Aquarium Arrow

It all starts with the penguins—when you first enter, you're greeted by African Penguin and Rockhopper colonies that are by any measure an absolute delight to watch. Just past, the main attraction is the 40-foot wide, floor-to-ceiling, 200,000 gallon salt water Ocean Tank, home to about 1000 marine animals, including turtles, eels, and tropical fish. A cylindrical walkway makes it possible for guests to experience the tank from every depth and angle, and a number of smaller satellite rooms contain informational displays and touch tanks that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This is a popular field trip spot, so you're likely to be surrounded by schools of rambunctious kids on any given day, especially from the lunch hour onwards. The museum implemented timed ticketing during the pandemic and is likely to keep it moving forward, which acts as a good form of crowd control, but the quietest times to visit are still weekdays first thing in the morning.

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Food halls are complicated. Make them too pedestrian and they quickly fall into the “food court” category, recalling the sad shopping mall eateries of our youth. But throw in a James Beard finalist, and an eclectic mix of some of Boston’s most discerning foodie favorites from across the city, and you’ve got a worthwhile detour for locals and visitors alike. Highlights include: bagels and pastrami from Brookline favorite Mamaleh’s; artisanal doughnuts from Blackbird; and Bubble Bath, a Champagne bar complete with Moët & Chandon vending machine. There’s tons of seating, a sleek LED entertainment system playing multiple sports games at once, and an airy, atrium-type feel that never feels overly crowded or cramped. There are a number of excellent food halls serving downtown Boston’s office-dwelling population, but this one feels less like a corporate convenience stop and more like a proper microcosm of the city’s food scene.

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Bostonians may breeze through the Public Garden to get from one side of town to the other, but there's plenty to linger over in this city-center oasis. The lagoon, which wanders almost the entire length of the garden, is where the famed Swan Boats have been peddled for over a century; and the flowers are beyond vivid. The Commonwealth Avenue entrance serves as the park’s most enchanting introduction, where a statue of George Washington comes flanked by flowers at the gate. In this pleasurable moment, remember that Victorian Bostonians found this park to be offensively bright. My, how times have changed.

Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

Julian Manning

Paris Wilson

Boston Public Library Arrow

There’s a lot to love about the Boston Public Library: It’s the oldest municipally-funded lending library in the country, its McKim Building is considered the masterwork of iconic Gilded Age architect Charles Follen McKim, and an ongoing calendar of free events all year-round means there is quite literally always a tour to go on, lecture to attend, or exhibit to peruse. Architecture nuts should reserve a spot on one of the thrice-weekly Art & Architecture Tours, which unlocks some of the premises’ lesser-known gems, including tile arches by famed Spanish builder Rafael Guastavino, and the first mural commission from John Singer Sargeant. The museum is home to all sorts of treasures beyond just books–including the lesser-known but entirely worthwhile Norman B. Leventhal Map Center, which houses over 250,000 geographic objects.

Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University Arrow

A gorgeous 281-acre green space within Boston, Arnold Arboretum of  Harvard University is the oldest public arboretum in North America (c. 1872) and the highlight of Frederick Law Olmsted's famed  Emerald Necklace series of green space in the city. Prolific biking and walking trails zigzag past more than 16,000 accessioned plants, many meticulously marked with signs. The natural splendor is a feast for the eyes, which are able to spot the sheer diversity of trees and plants at every turn. QR-coded signs and the arboretum’s easy-to-use  Expeditions app make it possible to dig deep into the environment.

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The Freedom Trail starts at the  Boston Common , the oldest public park in the United States, following a red brick path lined with 16 historic landmarks, which paint a picture of Boston’s revolutionary history. Although tourists flock to the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, this pedestrian path also coincides with day-to-day rush of downtown Boston. You’ll see revolutionary sites in a modern setting and walk alongside commuters and after-school kids. If you’re short on time, prioritize the North End section of the trail, home to landmarks like the  Paul Revere House , Old North Church, and Copp’s Hill Burial Ground, in a historic neighborhood that’s known as Boston’s Little Italy. If you want to go deeper, find all the hidden Freedom Trail spots locals love to visit here.

Charles Street Arrow

Beacon Hill, one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, is home to some of the finest examples of Federal-style brick row houses in the country, and Charles Street is the perfect launching point from which to explore it all. Tiny sidewalks, gaslit corners, and Instagrammable charm await on this busy thoroughfare, which starts by the Massachusetts General Hospital campus and concludes on the Boston Common. Charles Street has an independent bent that locals love to support. Come here for contemporary accessories at December Thieves, mouthwatering truffles at Beacon Hill Chocolates, custom stationery at Gus + Ruby Letterpress, and “this might have belonged to a Kennedy” antiques at Upstairs Downstairs Home. And if you’re a book lover (or bookstore lover), don’t leave town without visiting Beacon Hill Books & Cafe , a stunning townhome-turned-bookshop that’s restoring this city’s faith in the importance of independent booksellers.

Lookout Rooftop Arrow

With a deserved reputation as Boston's premiere rooftop bar, Lookout often reaches capacity with the city's work-hard, play-hard young professional crowd (Reservations are required these days; no walk-ins). For most, Lookout isn't a novelty—it's a mainstay—though you may find the occasional bridge-and-tunnel-type folks later on weekends. The crowd definitely likes a solid cocktail but they're here for the views and highly social atmosphere. In a city that skews historic and can feel sometimes like a  college town, The Lookout Rooftop provides big-city appeal with a cool crowd, awesome skyline views, and strong drinks. It's a place to hang out with friends and just have some boozy fun.

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What’s Boston without Fenway Park? America’s “Most Beloved Ballpark” isn’t just a stadium–it’s a piece of living history. It’s the home of the Red Sox, who play there each year from late March through October, but it’s also known for its popular summer concert series, and its fascinating behind-the-scenes tours offered in the off-season. Sure, there are parts of Fenway’s history that aren’t exactly worth celebrating–the Red Sox remained segregated longer than any other MLB team, and it wasn’t until Lady Gaga’s Joanne World Tour came in 2017 that a woman headlined a concert there–but at the end of the day, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Boston. When you’re in the cheap seats, having paid way too much for a beer and a hot dog and the crowd starts singing “Sweet Caroline,” it’s clear there’s a sense of history here that even non-sports lovers can get excited about.

Charles River Esplanade Arrow

If you’re exploring Boston for the day, take a walk up through Back Bay from Massachusetts Avenue and loop back down along the Esplanade or head over the Harvard Bridge to Cambridge (Ironically, the Harvard Bridge ends at M.I.T.). It's a narrow paradise along both sides of the Charles River, stretching for several miles between the Longfellow Bridge to the west and the Boston University bridge to the east. More than 1,500 trees line the walkway (or runway, if it's marathon-training season), while playgrounds, ponds, and gardens bring a lyrical quality to this meandering landscape. It's best viewed in autumn, when the Esplanade shows its true colors. The Hatch Shell is a performance space that serves as home base for all things at the Esplanade including the famous performance by the  Boston Pops on the Fourth of July.

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This neighborhood has the kind of charm that'll make you move to Boston. There are so many historic plaques that show off the neighborhood's rich past and an abundance of hidden art galleries and boutiques that will keep you searching for more. Design aficionados should definitely come here on Sundays, when you can visit SoWa Open Market (short for South of Washington Street) for food trucks and entertainment as well as SoWa Vintage Market and the SoWa Farmer's Market, and a number of one-of-a-kind boutiques and design showrooms. Plus, a foodie's trip to Boston isn't complete without a stop here casual bistros and oyster-slinging wine bars: Don't miss Black Lamb , an elevated American brasserie that impresses with a sensational raw options and sublime lobster rolls. Late night, stop by Beehive or Wally's Cafe for lively local jazz sets in casual bar settings. And for one of Boston's best dive bars (and best burgers) where everybody knows your name, hit cozy wood-paneled DeLux Cafe on cobblestoned Chandler Street.

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Arrow

The MFA’s vast collection of art and artifacts is exceptional by any standard. The museum houses one of the best collections of Korean art outside the Korean peninsula, the only permanent exhibition space for ancient coins in the United States, one of the world’s largest holdings of ancient Egyptian treasures, and a comprehensive collection of work by John Singer Sargent. The museum’s claims to fame are so varied, in fact, you could spend weeks documenting its exceptionality. Whatever you take in during your visit, don’t miss the Claude Monet gallery in the European Wing, with one of the greatest caches of the Impressionist’s work outside of France, or the impressive Arts of Islamic Cultures Gallery, whose 2019 reinstallation was developed in collaboration with local Muslim groups. All said and done, the MFA is the crown jewel of  Boston's art scene .

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Boston Seaport is one of the city's most talked-about neighborhoods—and for good reason. The former no-man's land, just over the bridge from Downtown, has quickly evolved into a center of innovation, mixed-use development, and modern culture, attracting prominent companies like Amazon, big names in biotech, and major developers competing to erect Boston’s priciest, sky-scraping condos. A young, ambitious work force has followed, as have some great businesses—including the  Institute of Contemporary Art ,  Legal Harborside 's rooftop bar, Wood Hills Pier 4 for farm-to-table cuisine, darts bar Flight Club, the Lookout Rooftop, and Mediterranean hotspot  Committee.

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The last vestige of the old Seaport—a once rough-around-the edges neighborhood that’s now filled with glass skyscrapers, corporate types, and Lululemon stores—this indoor-outdoor seafood institution fills with diners and happy hour revelers of all stripes, from construction workers to management consultants. The waterfront destination feels like a coastal summer clam shack with its tented roof and picnic tables, and, indeed, it got its start as a seasonal restaurant back in 1994. Now, it includes a more permanent wing with an old time-y tavern feel, but the seaside, atmosphere persists throughout. That vibe pairs perfectly with the menu of seafood platters; raw bar favorites; fried scallops, shrimp, and clams; fish sandwiches; entrees; and lobster in all forms, including boiled, grilled, roasted, and rolled.

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In the heart of Boston’s downtown, carts and shelves of $1, $3, and $5 books fill an alley off of West Street. The seller: Brattle Bookshop, a store that encompasses three floors of used books, the top one filled with rare collectibles. Its purveyor, Ken Gloss, is a regular appraiser on the PBS’ Antiques Roadshow and has gained modest fame among antiquers and public-television addicts.  Independent bookshops attract an eclectic mix of characters, and that’s as much a part of the experience as the books themselves. Curmudgeonly regulars, bespectacled students, and travelers who value a good read all make Brattle Bookshop an institution. Even the famously reclusive J.D. Salinger stopped here once.

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Take an afternoon and evening to sink into this corner of Cambridge, and you’ll have discovered a city unto itself. You certainly don’t have to be a student to savor this neighborhood. There are  art and  natural history museums on Harvard’s campus, quirky boutiques for souvenirs like Black Ink, Grolier Poetry Book Shop (the oldest in the country, c. 1927), and local-loved, world-class restaurants like  Alden & Harlow . Tourists turn out in droves to walk the famous Harvard Yard, and despite the crowds it's worth taking a genuine wander.

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Boston may not be as overwhelming as NYC or have the a festive atmosphere of Miami, but it’s definitely a one-of-a-kind city with the chance to relive history, cheer for hometown sports, explore interesting museums and tour one of the most important universities in the world.

If you’re visiting Boston for the first time, you’ll definitely find Massachusetts’ capital fascinating. As one of the oldest cities in the country , it has played a prominent role in US history and it’s a great city to visit.

Renting a car in Boston is a great idea for exploring the surrounding areas and towns, and will make the following itinerary a lot easier, and far more flexible to do by yourself.

Remember to purchase a car rental damage insurance policy when renting a car in the US; with so many car rental insurance options available, look into the alternatives first and choose one that works better for you in terms of your budget and the coverage it offers .

During your stay in Boston you’ll discover plenty of things to see and do and, regardless of your interests, you’ll be fully entertained. However for the history buff in particular , there are some pretty remarkable attractions!

Things to Do in Boston for History Buffs

First, book your hotel:, freedom trail.

Many of the following historic attractions can be found along the  three-mile Freedom Trail , so this seemed like a natural place to start! The trail  leads tourists past and into 16 of Boston’s most significant historic sites and monuments.

You simply need to follow the line of red bricks in the sidewalk and footprints at street crossings and follow the hints! This is an interactive and interesting way to learn about the history of Boston and understand the important role it played in American history.

You can explore famous Revolutionary War and Colonial sites, as well as other attractions closely related to the country’s fight for liberty such as the USS Constitution .

You’ll also pass through beautiful and charming historic Boston neighborhoods such as Beacon Hill or the North End. The walking trail starts at the Boston Common (the oldest part in the United States) and the end of the path connects with Harborwalk, leading visitors to the USS Constitution.

Now that we’ve mentioned it twice, the USS Constitution is definitely a site not to miss; it is a wooden-hulled, three-masted heavy frigate of the United States Navy, and the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat, open for the public to walk onboard.

Walking the whole Freedom Trail will probably take you between one and three hours , depending on how interested you are in American history. Don’t miss the North End to see Paul Revere’s House and the Old North Church!

It’s important to wear a pair of comfortable walking shoes . If you don’t fancy navigating the Freedom Trail on your own, many visitors find the walking tour offered by the XVIII-century costumed Freedom Trail Player tour guides are informative and entertaining and are an excellent introduction to the city’s revolutionary roots.

Faneuil Hall

Built by the merchant Peter Faneuil in the mid 1700s, Faneuil Hall is known by Bostonians as the “cradle of liberty”. This is a historic hall and marketplace, now an iconic place to eat and shop.

There are market stalls on the ground floor but the upper floor is a council chamber that in the XVIII and XIX centuries was the meeting place of revolutionaries and later of abolitionists. The fourth floor is home to the interesting Ancient and Artillery Museum.

Located in the heart of downtown Boston and along the Freedom Trail, it now encompasses the North Market, Quincy Market and South Market buildings as well. The building is still used as both a marketplace and as a place of political debates and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Faneuil Hall and Faneuil Marketplace include more than a hundred shops and restaurants, making it an ideal place to go shopping and grab a bite! Be on the lookout for street performers as well, especially in Quincy Market!

Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is one of the leading art museums in the United States and is renowned for its superb collection on ancient Egypt, Asian and Persian fine arts, works from the Middle East and Greece, and Impressionist paintings.

It has an American Wing completely devoted to American paintings, decorative arts, folk art, glassware, silver, furniture and design dating from pre-Columbian arts to the Art Deco and Modernist eras.

With its hundreds of galleries each filled with artistic treasures of all times, the Boston Museum of Fine Arts can keep you busy for a whole day . Fortunately, there are various dining options, specialized boutiques and performances offered for a great day in the museum.

Expect to find Egyptian mummies and pottery as well as other artifacts, African masks and African funeral artifacts and superb works of art including some by Georgia O’Keeffe, Picasso, Monet or Renoir.

If spending so much time at the museum feels overwhelming and too much to take in, remember that your ticket gives you a repeat free visit within ten days!

Image credit: Allie_Caulfield (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

Boston Common and Public Garden

Boston Common is located in the heart of the city and it’s the country’s oldest park . It marks the beginning of the Freedom Trail, and is a large green area that locals enjoy all year round.

Adjoining is the Public Garden, America’s oldest botanical garden , home of popular modern bronzes such as a family of ducks. There are theatre and public performances held in Boston Common throughout the year, so check for events on the Government website.

It’s great for picnics and leisurely strolls and it’s perfect for families with young children (local children love to play at the Tadpole Playground and enjoy the sprays at the Playground Frog Pond).

You can ice skate, play softball or tennis or simply enjoy reading a book! Many famous leaders have delivered speeches at Boston Common and it played a prominent role in American history.

Old North Church and the North End

The North End is Boston’s Italian neighborhood and one of the oldest in the city. It’s where the activist leader Paul Revere lived during the times of the American Revolution.

You can visit his house or climb to the tower of Old North Church, where lanterns were hung in April 1775 to alert Paul Revere that British troops were headed to Lexington to arrest the patriot leaders and confiscate munitions supplies.

Tourists love going to the North End; not only because of its important historic sights but also because of its cheerful  and attractive Italian flare. There are plenty of Italian restaurants and cafeterias and it’s definitely a great place to eat a pizza or a delicious Italian cappuccino!

The Old North Church is probably one of the most visited historic sites in Boston. It came to fame in 1775 when the church sexton and the Vestryman Captain ascended the steeple with two lanterns to signal Paul Revere that the British were coming and thus the American Revolution was ignited.

It’s the city’s oldest surviving church and it’s one that the whole family will enjoy visiting. It is one of the most prominent stops along the Freedom Trail and home to a crypt, where many soldiers killed in the Battle of Bunker Hill lie.

The Paul Revere House

The Paul Revere House offers an interesting glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s in Boston. Located on the Freedom Trail, it’s even filled with period pieces including fine silver.

Sweeping beams, original furnishing and spacious fireplaces will delight history fans. It’s the oldest house in downtown Boston and it was the home of silversmith and Boston patriot Paul Revere.

It was restored by Revere’s great-grandson in 1902 and six years later it was  opened to the public. Even though visitors are not allowed to take pictures inside, there are interesting souvenirs and mementos that can be purchased such as reproductions, educational material and prints.

USS Constitution and Bunker Hill

USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy and it’s still commanded and crewed. It’s definitely one of the most interesting attractions in Boston and you definitely shouldn’t miss it.

Now open for guided tours, you’ll learn everything about the ship’s construction and action at sea. It’s berthed at Pier 1 on the Harborwalk and still sets sail every 4th July to commemorate America’s Independence.

Across the pier, the USS Constitution Museum has interesting interactive exhibits that provide the historical context and illustrate life aboard a naval vessel more than two hundred years ago.

It’s a very popular place among history lovers, military aficionados and boat enthusiasts. Its knowledgeable staff are always eager to share what they know about this ship with visitors, and this is a highlight in this already very interesting vessel.

Fun fact: Undefeated in 33 naval battles, the USS Constitution is currently the only active US Navy vessel to have sunk another ship in combat, including HMS Guerriere in 1812.

Image: U.S. Coast Guard by Petty Officer 3rd Class Andrew Barresi (CC BY 2.0) via  Official U.S. Navy Page  

Climb the Bunker Hill Monument

Bunker Hill Monument marks the location of one of the first battles of the American Revolutionary War, the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill. It’s one of the most historically meaningful places in Boston and it commemorates those who fought.

Image: openroads.com (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

Visit Harvard University

No visit to Boston would be complete without taking a  tour of Harvard University . You can easily catch a subway out to Harvard from Downtown Boston, or drive yourself if you’ve rented a car.

The grounds of Harvard University are absolutely stunning: magnificent red brick buildings, gorgeous gardens and unique art! Founded in the early 1630s, it’s the oldest university in America.

Public tours will take you through different buildings and the history of the university. Then you can explore Harvard Square. It’s an offbeat and intellectual area with a mix of ages, languages and cultures.

There are plenty of independent bookstores, coffeehouses and cinemas on the campus, as well as the intriguing Semitic Museum with more than 40 thousand artifacts in archaeological expeditions to Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Syria and Tunisia.

The Harvard Museum of Natural History  is also worth a visit, where you can explore more than 12 thousand specimens: dinosaur fossils, gemstones, meteorites, animals on display from around the globe, a beautiful gallery of glass flowers and even an active bee colony!

Walk Along Boston Waterfront

The Boston waterfront offers spectacular views of the city skyline. To enjoy the best views, start near the New England Aquarium and follow the water to the front of the John Joseph Moakley US Courthouse.

As Boston is surrounded by water on three sides it offers visitors a huge variety of waterfront park and areas, river and harbor cruises. For instance, Charles River and the Esplanade is a long linear park only accessed by special footbridges and a favorite amongst walkers and runners.

Walk along the Harbor and follow the Waterfront Trail which passes along the edge of wharves, piers, beaches and shoreline. There are restaurants, fashion stores, museums, art galleries and hotels for an entertaining walk!

The area is home to Boston’s most vibrant neighborhoods and there’s always something interesting to see and do. Boston  Harbor, filled with fishing boats, whale-watching vessels and sailboats is also a magnetic attraction.

Don’t miss the dozens of Boston harbor islands; head to Georges Island, home of the Civil War-era Fort Warren or to the beautiful beaches and hiking trails of Spectacle Island; both a short ferry ride away from downtown Boston.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

The Boston Tea Party served as the famous catalyst for the revolutionary movement in Massachusetts, and this is one of the most important events in American history.

At the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum you’ll be able to learn how a few hundred colonists in Boston dumped more than 300 chests of tea into the harbor in mid December 1773 thus kicking off the push for independence in Boston.

You’ll be able to step into the past by participating in activities on the three replica ships and even get to toss some tea overboard . It’s a fantastic, interactive and immersive experience that both children and adults enjoy.

This floating museum is made up of high tech interactive exhibits, restored tea ships, captivating documentaries about this famous event and knowledgeable actors that make the representations even more appealing.

There’s also a well stocked gift shop and a charming café where you can try delicious treats.

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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind  Waking Up Wild ; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

Interesting post. I’ve been to Boston only once for work, and always wanted to go back. Now I know that I must go back :)

Glad the post was helpful Moshe! Definitely, it’s one of those cities that definitely deserves some dedicated time for exploration – perfect excuse to plan a trip back :)

Thanks for reading :)

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These Are the 30 Best Things to See and Do in Boston

With historic sights, beloved hometown sports teams, a thriving arts scene, and local brews and bites, you'll never be bored in Boston.

Boston is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 most-visited cities in the United States — and for good reason. Home to a thriving food and drink scene, historic landmarks, and activities for all types of travelers, the city offers plenty to keep visitors occupied. So, whether you're on a solo adventure or traveling with the whole family, here are 30 of the best things to do in Boston.

Walk the Freedom Trail.

The two-and-a-half-mile, self-guided Freedom Trail tour takes visitors through the city, telling the story of the American Revolution with stops at museums, churches, meeting houses, and other historical markers along the way. Do it alone, or find tour options here .

Step back in time at the Paul Revere House.

Want even more Boston history? Head to the Paul Revere House . The home, which was once owned by Revere and sold in 1800, served as everything from a boarding house to a local shop to tenement apartments. Now, it's a museum offering guided tours of the restored home that will transport you back in time.

Stroll through the Boston Common.

The Boston Common is the very heart and soul of the city. First built in 1634, it is the oldest public park in the United States. On the park's 50 acres of land, guests will find the Frog Pond, a softball field, and monuments galore. Take your time strolling through the landscaped gardens and enjoying the sights.

See the animals at the New England Aquarium.

For more than 50 years, the New England Aquarium has invited guests to come and meet a few of the coolest sea creatures on Earth. From penguins to sharks, stingrays to seals, and everything in between, the aquarium has all kinds of animals for curious visitors. It's also a working research aquarium, meaning visits and donation dollars partially go toward ocean conservation and preserving these species for generations to come.

Take the kids to the Franklin Park Zoo.

For even more animal adventures, pay a visit to the Franklin Park Zoo . The 72-acre zoo is the place to be for a red panda, tiger, or zebra sighting right in the middle of the city. There are also plenty of expert-led chats to attend, as well as children's events, making it a place the entire family will love.

Or, see animals in their natural habitat with a whale-watching tour.

Take to the waters outside of Boston for a high-seas adventure like a whale-watching excursion . Hop aboard a tour with the New England Aquarium and Boston Harbor City Cruises to see whales, dolphins, and sea birds on their migration routes — all from a safe distance, of course.

Go for a walk around the Esplanade.

Another worthy place for a stroll is the Esplanade, a three-mile path that hugs the Charles River. It's an excellent spot for a walk or bike ride along the lovely green spaces on the banks of the river, where you can watch boaters. And if you're so inclined, you can donate to the Esplanade Association , a nonprofit working to preserve the space for more than two decades.

Violet Smirnova/Travel + Leisure

Take to the Charles River.

You may feel inclined to get on the water yourself — and you can do just that by joining Community Boating Boston on a sail. The organization offers sailboat, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals for those feeling adventurous.

Watch a midnight movie at Coolidge.

The Coolidge Corner Theater, which first opened its doors during the golden age of cinema in 1933, is already one of the most incredible places to see a movie in the city. But to up the ante, try and visit for one of its After Midnite showings. The late-night programming includes horror films and off-beat flicks, making it great for an after-dark fright.

Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Isabella Stewart Gardner was a woman who knew what she liked. She was a millionaire, a bohemian, and an intellectual, and the museum bearing her name is a gem of Boston's thriving art scene, with luxurious landscaped grounds. Perhaps some of the museum's most famous works aren't hanging on the walls, though, as eagle-eyed visitors can spot empty frames that once held priceless pieces, stolen from the space in a famed art heist in 1990.

Spend a day at the Institute of Contemporary Art.

The iconic Institute of Contemporary Art is housed in 65,000-square-feet of space, making it a spot where you can easily spend an entire day. The institute includes gallery exhibits, a theater, and a cafe, along with a gorgeous outdoor deck so you can get a breath of fresh air and reflect on all the works you've just seen. Plus, admission to the institute is free on Thursdays after 5 p.m., but make sure to snag your timed ticket in advance.

See the Arnold Arboretum.

The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is a living museum of trees and plant life, with a particular focus on flora and fauna from eastern North America and Asia. This National Historic Landmark is open every day and always free for visitors.

Scope out the treasures at The Museum of Fine Arts.

The Museum of Fine Arts is a crown jewel in Boston's museum scene. It includes American works of art and artifacts from around the globe, including pieces from across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The museum also holds collections in photography, musical instruments, textiles, and more.

Swing by Encore Boston Harbor.

Encore Boston Harbor is the place to go if you're looking for some good old-fashioned fun. The entertainment venue, which opened in 2019, includes a hotel, five-star dining options, shopping, and even a casino for those wanting to roll the dice and test their luck. Head out for a meal, stay for a game, and perhaps book an overnight stay so you can do it all again tomorrow.

Shop on Newbury Street.

Visitors to Boston could make an entire vacation out of just strolling down Newbury Street. The famed street is chock-full of boutique shops, restaurants, galleries, and more, so you may have to visit more than once to ensure you've seen and done it all. Keep track of pop-up events on the street's website here .

"Travel" the world at the Mapparium.

The Mapparium may just be the best way to "see" the world without ever leaving Boston. The three-story site is actually the world's largest walk-in globe. Guests can walk through the globe via a bridge dissecting its equator before leaving to check out "Our World: Mapping Progress," an exhibit highlighting "humanity's advancement since 1935."

Root for the Red Sox at Fenway.

There is arguably nothing more iconic in Boston than Fenway Park . If you visit during the regular baseball season, try to get tickets to a game. While inside, cheer for home runs over the Green Monster and get ready to sing "Sweet Caroline" at least once.

And cheer on the Celtics and the Bruins at TD Garden.

Visitors to Boston can continue to root for the hometown team by getting tickets to a Celtics or Bruins game, depending on the season. Luckily, both teams play under one roof at TD Garden , which also hosts plenty of concerts, so check the calendar to see what shows or games you can take part in next.

Grab a good book at the Boston Public Library.

When constructed in 1848, the Boston Public Library became the first large free public library in the nation. It remains a place where visitors can check out a good book or read in the public spaces. The library hosts both tours and regular events, so check its calendar and see what piques your interest.

Grab a bite at Boston Public Market.

The Boston Public Market , a year-round indoor marketplace, hosts nearly 30 New England-based food purveyors and artisans. It's also a place you can feel good about visiting, as it's a registered nonprofit with public impact goals to support "economic development, New England food system resilience, public health and education, affordability, and access."

Drink a local brew at Samuel Adams Boston Brewery.

Boston is home to a thriving craft beer scene, though the best-known spot for brews is popular brand Sam Adams. The company now sells its brews just about everywhere and even allows guests to come and taste its latest creations on a brewery tour. See all tour options here .

Devour dessert with a cannoli from Mike's Pastry.

There are plenty of excellent places to grab a cannoli in Boston's Italian mecca, the North End. Walk into any bakery in the neighborhood and you'll surely be delighted. But if you need a little guidance, we suggest heading to Mike's Pastry . It's the largest bakery in the neighborhood and wildly popular, but for good reason. Just be prepared to wait in line for your sweet treat.

Explore more city history on a walking tour of Chinatown.

In the 1880s, Chinese immigrants to Boston founded their own community, now known as Chinatown. The neighborhood has always played a significant role in the city's history and is a place where visitors can come to both learn and dine to their heart's delight. Hop on a Boston by Foot tour to ensure you see and dig in at all the right spots.

Watch a show at the Boston Ballet.

The Boston Ballet has delighted audiences since the 1960s, with performances ranging from classics like George Balanchine's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and Mikko Nissinen's "Swan Lake," as well as modern pieces by William Forsythe, Jiří Kylián, Wayne McGregor, and more.

Waddle around on a Boston Duck Tour.

The Duck Tour may not have started in Boston, but the city has certainly perfected it. We'd be remiss not to mention this as a perfect Boston attraction for out-of-town visitors, as it goes to all the best city locations and even right onto the Charles River thanks to the amphibious vehicles. See all tour options here .

Shop and dine at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Want to pack as much Boston as you can into a single place? Simply head to Faneuil Hall . The famed marketplace is home to more than 70 retailers across its 200,000-square-foot space, including food, apparel, and specialty gift shops. It's a place to see and do it all, and it's especially magical if you can visit during the holiday season.

Learn something new at the Museum of Science.

Boston's Museum of Science may be one of the most fun spots in the city. It's filled with interactive exhibits that will surprise, delight, and leave you in awe. Head there to learn about the evolution of dinosaurs, see its exhibit on how vaccines work, and much more.

Stop by Trinity Church.

If you love architecture, design, and history, Trinity Church should be high on your list of things to see in Boston. A National Historic Landmark, the church is also considered by the American Institute of Architects to be one the country's top 10 buildings thanks to its Richardsonian Romanesque design and stained-glass windows. The church is open for both worship and tours throughout the week.

Get medieval at Castle Island.

Castle Island is a hidden gem that even locals tend to overlook. We're not quite sure how considering there is an entire castle-like fort hiding in plain sight. The 22-acre "island" isn't actually an island anymore after a small strip of land was added to connect it to shore, but that doesn't make it any less special. Visitors can come to tour the fort, walk the grounds, or head to its trails for a bit of rollerblading or biking.

Pick up new art at the SoWa studios.

Stroll through the SoWa studios and get a glimpse of the fantastic work from the city's artistic community. Visitors can swing by the first Friday of every month for open gallery tours or make an appointment with an artist to get up close to the works before buying.

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Visitor guide, subscribe to our, e-newsletter, online store, boston museums & attractions.

Boston is a city of history-makers, innovators, creators, and barrier-breakers. So, it's no surprise that our museums and attractions are iconic. Home to world-renowned museums, storied  sports stadiums , star-studded  concert venues , distinguished  performance theaters , trendy  nightclubs , vast urban  green spaces , and 23 vibrant  neighborhoods , you'll find what you're looking for in Boston. 

See the listings below for more information on Boston's top attractions.

Museum Exhibits to See in 2024

Explore Black identity at the Peabody Essex Museum, uncover Boston’s influence on Jazz at the Museum of African American History, and examine the loss of natural diversity at the Harvard Museum of Natural History. See our top exhibits.

25 Family Attractions to Visit

Never hear “I’m Bored!” during your trip to Boston.

Top Boston Attractions

Step into history on the  Freedom Trail , experience breathtaking views at  View Boston , dive deeper at the  New England Aquarium , explore masters at the  Museum of Fine Arts , or find true nostalgia with a  Swan Boat  ride in the Boston Public Garden - here's our list of bucket list worthy attractions in Boston:

Museum of Fine Arts

The MFA is one of the world's premier art museums with masterpieces from around the world.

The Freedom Trail®

Explore Boston's role in the American Revolution and beyond on the Freedom Trail.

Boston Duck Tour

Get the best introDUCKtion to Boston as you cruise by the places that make us the city of firsts.

Fenway Park Tours

Explore the hallowed walls and legendary moments of America's Most Beloved Ballpark.

Boston Public Library

America's first public library features a collection of over 33 million items for you to explore.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Participate in the “Destruction of the Tea!”at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Modeled after a Venetian palazzo, the Gardner Museum houses some of the world's most remarkable art.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

Featuring 18 exhibits, the museum provides an unmatched look into the natural world.

Institute of Contemporary Art

Experience the oldest non-collecting contemporary arts institution in the United States.

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McMullen Museum of Art - Boston College

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MIT List Visual Arts Center

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Our Time on Earth Exhibit

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Perspective Play

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Discover what to see, where to go, and how to immerse yourself in authentic experiences in Boston.

Get Inspired

Search for hidden gems in Franklin Park, explore Boston's outdoor art scene , embark on a sunset cruise in the Harbor , or uncover over 400 years of history. No matter what's in your perfect itinerary, here's how to have a uniquely Boston experience.

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Save on Attractions

Experience some of the best attractions in Boston for a discounted price with the Boston CityPASS® and Go City Pass.

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The 45 best things to do in Boston

Whether you are new to Boston or a lifelong resident, here's what to do this spring

As with every year, April in Boston brings fairer weather and ample opportunities to celebrate it. If you're looking to put the spring back into your step by heading out and exploring all that our city has to offer, you're in luck because we've amassed a list of the best things to do in Boston right now. While our area may be known for some of the  oldest restaurants , historic Fenway Park and swath of Freedom Trail landmarks, it also offers plenty of new and exciting places for you to check out. Looking for more seasonal inspiration? Take a stroll through the best parks  in town, bring your family to some  kid-friendly attractions  and check out some primo picnic spots  that will let you live life in the Hub to the absolute fullest.

RECOMMENDED: The Best Restaurants in Boston Right Now

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• Restaurants
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Time Out Market Boston  has you covered when you are looking to try the city’s best chefs under one roof. Come in to try all the flavors of Boston in one day.

Best things to do in Boston

1.  Stroll the Greenway

What is it?  This verdant, mile-long ribbon of grassy parks and outdoor resting places invites the weary traveler (or office warrior) to stop and take a break. 

Why go?  The expansive park covers 15 acres connecting the Chinatown Gate with the iconic Zakim Bridge. During the day, people stroll, bike and lounge along its length, which is dotted with fountains and serviced by food trucks, making the area the perfect warm-weather hangout.

Don’t miss:  Keep an eye out for the periodic festivals, events and parades taking place on or near the park.

Need some guidance? Book a tour . 

2.  Wander around Boston Common and the Public Garden

What is it?  America ’ s first botanical garden (Public Garden, 1837) and oldest public park  (Boston Common, 1634).

Why go?  The dual jewels of the Emerald Necklace perfectly reflect the vision of the venerated landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Depending on the season, you can ice-skate on Frog Pond , play softball or tennis, or simply lounge with a book on the 50-acre Boston Common. Across Charles Street, the smaller Public Garden shines in its own right. It ’ s the perfect park, with pathways designed for promenading, formal flower beds and a petite lagoon fringed with weeping willows. 

Don’t miss:   The seasonally operated, waterfowl-shaped Swan Boats  (introduced in 1877), which are adored by children. 

3.  Try the best clam chowder in Boston

What is it?  A time-honored, New England culinary tradition.

Why go?  There are few things that scream "spring in Boston" more than grabbing a belly-warming bowl of the good stuff after a breezy day outside.

Don’t miss: Chowderfest , an annual event that occurs each summer when you can sample some of the city's best chowders.

4.  Sunbathe on the Esplanade

• Things to do
• The Esplanade

What is it? Running alongside the Charles River, this public park is the perfect place to sit down and catch some rays.

Why go? With a refreshing breeze continuously coming off the water, the Esplanade attracts runners, cyclists or anyone looking to take a stroll. If you’re lucky, you can snag one of the highly coveted benches that are peppered throughout this pedestrian paradise. Otherwise, you can seek shade under one of its many trees and haul out some packed picnic supplies.

Don’t miss: The Boston Public Dock, where people come to stretch out on towels and try to get a tan.

5.  Tour a historic building

What is it?  Boston is blessed with so many historic buidlings open to the public, such as the Old State House and Faneuil Hall. 

Why go?  Learn more about the city's — and the country's — rich history, in some cases for free.

Don’t miss:   Walking the entire  Freedom Trail , so you can enjoy the outdoors while seeing national landmarks.

6.  Head out on the Charles

What is it?  The Charles River, which runs from Boston Harbor out towards Hopkinton.

Why go?  Our city loves that dirty water, especially now that isn't quite as dirty anymore. On warm days, the Charles is flowing with activity, with everyone from the Harvard Crew Team to casual kayakers putting their watercrafts into the river. 

Don’t miss:  If you want a piece of the aquatic action and don’t own a boat, rentals are available from organizations like Community Boating Boston . 

7.  Go hard on a Southie Sunday

• South Boston

What is it? A neighborhood tradition, where local yuppies finish the weekend strong with long, boozy brunches. 

Why go? In more recent years, South Boston has become known for its high concentration of young professionals who are always down for a good time. Sundays are no exception, and nearby restaurants cater to the crowds with creative brunch specials, buckets of bubbles and lots of beer. Kick off your Sunday Funday festivities at popular brunch spots like Lincoln, The Broadway and Loco. True troopers continue their day drinking at bars like Stats and Lucky’s Lounge. 

Don’t miss: Hydrating, especially if you’re over the age of 25 and have work on Monday morning. 

8.  Try one or all of the city’s freshest lobster rolls

What is it?  Perhaps the ultimate seafood treat, lobster rolls are found on menus across town for you to enjoy any time of the year.

Why go?  The best lobster dishes in Boston  feature this beloved crustacean in a variety of ways, but a fresh lobster roll is a solid option any time of the year. Sourced from cold waters along the New England coast, chunks of sweet lobster meat are removed from the shell, allowing diners to enjoy all of the flavor with none of the mess. Classic versions, like the famed roll at Neptune Oyster , are served hot or cold on a humble toasted bun, while more modern versions —see  Eventide Fenway's  brown butter lobster roll on a Chinese-style bun —are a bit more upscale.

Don ’ t miss:  For a low-key, no-frills lobster roll experience, head to Belle Isle Seafood in quiet Winthrop. 

9.  Explore the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

• Art and design
• Mission Hill

What is it?  Modeled on a Venetian palace, the former home of the American art collector Isabella Stewart Gardner is a sightseeing gem. 

Why go?  As per Gardner’s explicit instructions, the museum stands “for the education and enrichment of the public forever.” The ISG’s most famous treasures remain exactly where Gardner had arranged them, including the empty frames that once held priceless works of art stolen during the infamous 1990 theft. The museum also boasts a flower-filled courtyard that blooms all year long. 

Don’t miss:   Enjoy free admission on your birthday; a nyone with the first name Isabella gets in for free as well.

10.  Take a hike

What is it? Serious hikers may travel to the White Mountains or the Appalachian Trail, but when you just need a little bit of nature, there are plenty of quality hikes near Boston.

Why go?  W hether it’s climbing scenic wooded preserves or exploring waterfront trails, these Boston hikes are perfect for walking off the chaos of downtown.

Don't miss:   Just a few minutes outside of Boston proper is the 7,000-acre Blue Hills Reservation with 125 miles of pristine hiking trails. Climb to the top of Great Blue Hill and enjoy an unmatched view of the Hub's skyline.

11.  Retrace historic steps along the Freedom Trail

What is it?  A stroll along the Freedom Trail is a great way to take in local history and culture.

Why go?  While the Freedom Trail isn’t the only historical walk in town, it's the most famous for a reason. The self-guided, 2.5-mile tour provides a sightseeing starting point for newcomers, and locals always spot something new to appreciate along the way.

Don’t miss:  After seeing Paul Revere's House, take a break and refuel with a slice of pizza from Galleria Umberto.

12.  Get a different perspective of the city from a cruise on the water

What is it?  Ask Bostonians for a special occasion recommendation and they’ll likely tell you to get out on the water by taking one of the city’s harbor cruises.

Why go?  Nautical types will argue that the best way to truly see Boston in all of its glory is by boat excursion. Longtime local favorite  Odyssey Cruises offers a variety of yachting experiences, most of which feature food, drink, live music and dancing. 

Don ’ t miss:  If time on the water has you fiending for fish afterwards, seek out one of Boston ’ s best seafood restaurants .

13.  Smell the flowers at the Arnold Arboretum

What is it?  A National Historic Landmark and one of the best preserved landscapes designed by the famous Frederick Law Olmsted. 

Why go?  With thousands of trees, shrubs and woody vines, it's also recognized as one of the most comprehensive and well documented of its kind worldwide. 

Don’t miss:  Taking a stroll on a nice day to see bursts of green, blooming flowers and plenty of chirping birds.

14.  Eat the freshest local oysters at a popular raw bar

What is it?  Boston is famous for its fresh seafood, so enjoying a dozen local oysters at one of the city’s top raw bars is a must.

Why go?  Ever since the Union Oyster House opened in 1826, raw oysters have been integral to Boston’s culinary scene. Today, these briny bivalves appear on restaurant menus throughout the city. You'll find locally-sourced varieties including Wellfleet, Cotuit and Glidden Point as well as popular imports like Kumamotos. Oyster happy hours are a great way to sample these goodies at a lower price.

Don’t miss:  Cozy spots like B&G Oysters and North Square Oyster offer oyster-friendly wine pairings, while Row 34 can provide the perfect beers.

15.  Visit the penguins at the New England Aquarium

• Attractions
• Zoo and aquariums

What is it?  New England’s largest aquarium and one of Boston’s most popular attractions.

Why go?  More than 80 African, rockhopper and little blue penguins live in the New England Aquarium’s first-floor display. Watch them go wild during feeding time in front of the Giant Ocean Tank, a massive coral reef exhibit that's home to a myriad of other marine creatures, including sharks and loggerhead sea turtles. The building is designed in such a way that the penguins can be seen from multiple vantage points. 

Don’t miss:   Be sure to say hi to the harbor seals in their enclosure outside, which is free and open to the public.

16.  Browse the Institute of Contemporary Art

• Seaport District
• price 2 of 4

What is it? The dramatic, glass-walled ICA is the cultural cornerstone of the buzzing Seaport District. 

Why go? The 65,000-square-foot building houses galleries, a theater and a café. The museum staff prides itself on providing a platform for challenging — sometimes controversial — works. After you ’ ve contemplated the art, retreat to the scenic outdoor deck, the site of live performances and events. Note: Admission is free on Thursdays from 5pm-9pm.

Don’t miss:  First Fridays at the ICA, a monthly event where people congregate for an evening of live cultural programming put together with a common theme. 

Save money on tickets with a Go Boston Pass

17.  See world class art at the Museum of Fine Arts

What is it?  Founded in 1870, the Museum of Fine Arts — whose globe-spanning collection encompasses more than 500,000 objects — continues to grow.  

Why go? Noteworthy pieces include: its selection of American art, including Paul Revere’s Liberty Bowl and paintings by John Singleton Copley; its Egyptian exhibit, much of which was acquired through excavations in conjunction with Harvard University; its Japanese collection (the first in America, and one of the finest in the country); and its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist galleries, which includes one of the largest collections of Monet's work outside Paris. 

Don’t miss:   The museum offers one of the city ’ s best deals on Wednesdays after 4pm, when admission is by voluntary contribution. 

Save money on tickets with a Boston Explorer Pass

18.  Shop, dine and go big at Encore Boston Harbor

What is it? Encore Boston Harbor is the mega-casino resort we've been waiting for.

Why go? The 210,000-square-foot complex—which cost nearly $3 billion—includes 15 dining and lounge venues, 671 guest rooms and suites, 50,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, and an ultra-premium spa.

Don't miss: The four-season, six-acre Harborwalk features pedestrian and bike paths, a picnic park, a gazebo, viewing decks, waterfront dining and lush green space with magnificent floral displays.

19.  Splurge on Newbury Street

What is it?  Boston’s premier retail strip is perfect for both shopping and people-watching.

Why go?  Between Arlington Street and Massachusetts Avenue, there are eight blocks of beautiful brick townhouses housing ultra-luxe designers like Chanel and Burberry, chic boutiques (Intermix, Rag & Bone) and international chains. With a never-ending assortment of galleries, salons, cafés, bars and eateries to explore, you can easily spend an entire afternoon browsing, relaxing and indulging here.

Don’t miss:  If you ’ re more interested in unique, indie finds, head to the neighboring  South End . 

20.  Discover the deCordova Museum & Sculpture Park

What is it?  Head west to suburbs and visit the former estate of Massachusetts merchant Julian de Cordova. 

Why go?  Even during the peak of winter or dog days of summer, the deCordova Museum & Sculpture Park attracts art lovers to its a 35-acre spread in leafy Lincoln. Open year-round, the region ’ s premier outdoor sculpture park is the perfect place to get some fresh air while checking out world-class art. The ever-changing indoor exhibits provide shelter from the sometimes-fickle elements.

Don’t miss:  Check the museum ’ s  calendar  to learn about special outdoor events.

21.  Eat at one of these healthy spots

Boston has plenty of opportunities for you to indulge, but with the holidays approaching it may be wise to check out a few healthy spots along the way as well. These are the best and tastiest places for a light meal. 

22.  Discover a lost world at the Mapparium

• Libraries, archives and foundations

What is it?  Located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library, the Mapparium is essentially a three-story model of the globe built to scale. 

Why go?  Calling all geography nerds: The Mapparium, the world ’ s largest walk-in globe, is among the city ’ s quirkiest landmarks. This colorful sphere runs 30 feet in diameter and can be crossed by means of a glass bridge bisecting its interior. Inside, sound bounces off the room ’ s rounded walls, amplifying it ten-fold, so keep in mind that there are no secrets in the sphere —no matter how softly you may whisper.

Don’t miss:  The 608 stained-glass panels recreate the world as it was in the mid-1930s, when the project was completed. So keep keen eyes on those outdated borders.

23.  Root for the home team at Fenway Park

• Sport events

What is it?  Seeing a game at Fenway Park has been a rite of passage amongst many locals since it opened in 1912.

Why go?  As the oldest ballpark in the majors, Fenway is also one of the smallest, with a capacity of around 38,000. That means tickets can be hard to come by for big games. Fortunately, public tours are offered year-round, so baseball fans and history buffs alike can hear all about the park's past and present. 

Don’t miss:   If you get the chance, take a seat atop the stadium ’ s most distinctive feature, the 37-foot-high left-field wall known as the Green Monster. Before or after the game, check out the great restaurants, bars and other activities in the Fenway neighborhood .

24.  Go on a tour of Fenway

The best part about Fenway Park is that it is a blast even if the Red Sox aren't playing! 

Take a 60-minute guided tour of Fenway Park using Go City Boston to see where Jimmy Fallon and Drew Barrymore filmed scenes for their 2005 romance drama film, Fever Pitch! 

25.  Get an inside view of SoWa’s studios

What is it?  As the city ’ s premier artistic hub, the 450 Harrison building is a veritable hive of creative activity. 

Why go?  Many artists open their doors a few times a month for open studio events, where they greet South End residents and visitors. First Fridays (5-9pm) is the space's flagship event, where more than 200 artists, galleries, shops and showrooms welcome the public for an evening of art, wine, cheese and mingling each month.

Don’t miss:  Once you ’ ve had your fill of art, get your fill of locally grown produce and artisinal foods at SoWa's Farmer's Market.

26.  Learn something new at the Boston Public Library

What is it?  The BPL contains approximately 19 million volumes and electronic resources, making it the second-largest public library in the U.S. —coming right  behind the Library of Congress.

Why go?  At nearly 1 million square feet, the BPL impresses in a way that few libraries can. The original structure, designed by Charles McKim and completed in 1895, now serves as the research library, while an extension (opened in 1972) functions as the general library. Talks, performances and tours delight culture vultures from near and far.

Don’t miss:   At the center of the library is a cloistered courtyard, one of the city ’ s most beautiful, tranquil places to read a book.

Want to see more in the area? Book a tour . 

27.  Get wild at the Franklin Park Zoo

What is it?  The city ’ s quaint zoo is a kid-friendly local favorite.

Why go?  As fascinating as animals seem on the TV screen, they’re far more impressive in real life. The zoo—whose mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain endangered species—is home to zebras, gorillas, giraffes and a host of other exotic animals that you definitely wouldn’t normally see in the wilds of New England. 

Don’t miss:  Little visitors can be easily entertained at the children ’ s zoo, which features everything from a prairie dog neighborhood to a grass maze.

28.  Explore culinary creations at Boston's best food halls

What is it? The food hall trend is exploding here in Boston, with a wealth of food halls popping up around the city.

Why Go? Food halls are a great dining choice when you’re with a group of friends with different tastes—there’s something for everyone. Boston food halls offer all types of food—spanning numerous genres and cuisine types—all in one spot. They make for a great anytime meeting spot; just show up and see what kind of mood you’re in.

Don't Miss: Eataly is a haven for Italian food enthusiasts. The Boston Public Market has fresh produce in addition to prepared foods.

29.  Save some cash and check out the city's free activities

What is it? Not all of the best things in life come for free. But gratis enjoyments can be found all around Boston, a city known for its high cost of living.

Why go? A simple stroll throughout Boston makes for a pretty great cheap date, owing to the city’s ample history, architecture, museums, green spaces and exciting performances.

Don't miss: The city's museums are world-class, even more attractive on their various free days.

30.  Check out a food truck

What is it? Food trucks are often a testing ground for new chefs, leading to popular brick-and-mortar locations. (Clover, now a local empire, started as a mobile kitchen peddling street eats).

Why go?  Food trucks offer convenient, delicious fare that can be enjoyed just about anywhere. From gourmet grilled cheeses to ice cream cookie sandwiches, Boston's fleet of wheeled restaurants have a range of fast, fun bites for on-the-go eating.

Don't miss: Many trucks park themselves near the city's busiest picnic spots, like Copley Square, Government Center or the Rose Kennedy Greenway. But if you have your heart set on food from a specific vehicle, check to see if it's shared its daily route online.

31.  Explore the JFK Library

What is it?   Located behind UMass Boston ’s Dorchester campus, the JFK Presidential Library and Museum occupies I.M. Pei ’ s dramatic concrete-and-glass monolith.

Why go?   The stately, multimedia journey through the former president’s life continues to fascinate, as do temporary exhibits and special events that focus on politics, culture and current events.  On the ground floor, the stunning atrium commands panoramic views of the sea and the city. Downstairs, the museum contains an extensive display of memorabilia, as well as a series of temporary shows. 

Don’t miss:  Check the Library ’ s homepage in advance to learn about special events and award ceremonies.

32.  Catch a game or a show at the TD Garden

• Event spaces

What is it?  Besides serving as the home for the NBA’s Celtics and NHL’s Bruins, the city’s premier arena hosts big-name concerts and events.

Why go?  While it’s not the original Boston Garden (a no-frills venue that hosted some of the most important cultural events in Boston history), the spirit of Boston sports runs deep throughout the venue. An assortment of fans—from intense locals whose season tickets go back decades to new-school supporters sporting the latest in merch and gear—scream and shout while supporting the local teams.

Don’t miss:  Fuel up before a big game with a killer Italian meal in the neighboring North End .

33.  Sample the best of local breweries

What is it?  For a city that’s often limited by its strict, booze-related blue laws, we sure have a fine collection of breweries. 

Why go?  Historically, Boston's most recognizable brewer was Samuel Adams, the Revolutionary and “maltster” for whom the city's biggest beer brand is clearly named. Tourists are encouraged to visit the Samuel Adams Brewery in Jamaica Plain, but also need to explore the Hub's booming craft brew scene. Join locals in tasting small-batch, farmhouse-style ales at Fort Point’s Trillium Brewing Company , or experimental suds at Somerville’s Aeronaut Brewing Company , founded by a science-focused trio with MIT connections.

Don’t miss:  Any of the lively, beer-fueled festivities at the Harpoon Brewery .

34.  Drink a proper pint at an authentic Irish pub

What is it?  Boston ’s collection of  cozy, welcoming Irish pubs might just be the most impressive — outside Ireland itself.

Why go?  In a city chock full of proud Irish expats and Irish-Americans, it’s little wonder why Boston is brimming with an excess of quality pubs. To get the full experience, head in on a spirited trivia night, or during a live performance of authentic Irish music. Longtime favorites like  The Burren  and The Druid all but guarantee a lively night of big laughs and fun times.

Don ’ t miss:  For a centrally-located option with nightly live tunes, look no further than the Black Rose .

35.  Dine at one of the best waterfront restaurants in Boston

We are lucky that there are plenty of waterfront restaurants in Boston to get your fix of sun, sea and salty air. Take advantage of the warm weather while it lasts and savor the sunshine at one of these fabulous restaurants with a view.

36.  Have a drink outside

What is it? Head to one of these outdoor Boston bars where you can enjoy sun and fun as the weather improves.

Why go? From cheery terraces to waterfront views, these outdoor bars in Boston offer al fresco drinks and a good dose of fresh air. 

Don't miss: Some spots like SRV  offer cozy outdoor space to enjoy both excellent drinks and delicious food.

37.  Take a foodie crawl through Chinatown

What is it?  As one of Boston ’ s most densely-packed and unique neighborhoods, Chinatown thrills gourmands with its array of authentic eateries. 

Why go?  Many of  the city ’ s best Chinese restaurants  can be found in Chinatown. Rather than sticking to one spot and eating a single big meal, walk around the area and slowly snack along the way. Gourmet Dumpling House is a smart place to start, so you can let its soft steamed dumplings with spicy dipping sauce fire up your palate. Next, stamp your culinary passport at Taiwan Cafe , where you can sample a selection of the island's specialities. Finish off with a bang at Peach Farm , where you can select seafood straight from the tanks.

Don’t miss:  Exotic hand-pulled noodles at Gene’s Chinese Flatbread Cafe .

Want to see more of the area? Book a walking tour .  

38.  Study fine art at the Harvard Art Museums

What is it?  Harvard’s history and status has allowed it to cultivate one of the most impressive university art collections. 

Why go?  Following a lengthy expansion project, Harvard’s three art institutions—the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum—were united under one Renzo Piano–designed glass roof. Visitors are able to peruse highlights from the Ivy League institution's collection of roughly 250,000 pieces — from Neolithic sculptures to 21st-century conceptual installations. 

Don’t miss:  Harvard ’ s   Museum of Natural History , which houses the famous Ware Collection of Blaschka Glass Models of Plants.

Want to see more of Harvard? Book a tour . 

39.  Cheer on the local teams at the liveliest sports bars

What is it? If you can't make it to the game in person, our slew of sports bars are the next best thing when it comes to watching the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots and Bruins.

Why Go? Of all the fantastic things to do in Boston, catching the game has to be at the top of the list — whether it's hearing the roar of Red Sox fans at Fenway, braving the cold to cheer on the Patriots in Foxborough or celebrating a Celtics' or Bruins' win at TD Garden. While you can't always make it there in person, especially with away games, but good beer, lively company and big screens make our bars a great alternative.

Don't miss: For fans of memorabilia, The Fours (in Quincy and Norwell... RIP its Boston location) has its walls plastered with photos, jerseys, balls and other collectables from all of our teams.

40.  Go candlepin bowling at Sacco’s Bowl Haven

What is it?  A unique, casual Somerville hangout where you can enjoy gourmet pizza and craft brews while trying your hand at candlepin bowling.

Why go?  Candlepin bowling is a uniquely New England quirk—the pins are tall and much thinner than those of standard ten-pin, and balls are closer to softball-sized. A local favorite for playing this regional game: The lovingly maintained Sacco’s Bowl Haven, which dates back to 1939 and now sits within Flatbread Company's Somerville location. This alley has the added perk of being able to eat amazing thin-crust pizza while waiting for a lane.

Don’t miss:  Reservations are accepted for groups of eight or more; call ahead or expect to wait.

41.  Dance the night away at a hot club

What is it?  Boston’s best clubs might not compare to the nightlife in Miami or Vegas, but there are plenty of popular options for late-night fun.

Why go?  With hot spots such as Royale , Venu  and Icon , the Theatre District hosts ’ s biggest concentration of nightclubs. Newcomers like The Grand , Big Night Liv e and Mystique offer elevated late-night options similar to those you'd find in other cities. A far cry from the Top 40 club-banging hotspots on the other side of the river, Central Square offers an eclectic assortment of places to shake it like there's no tomorrow. Popular options include house DJ nights at the Middlesex Lounge , the eclectic throwback and hip-hop parties at Phoenix Landing .

Don’t miss:  If toe-tapping along to live jazz is more your speed, check out Darryl's Corner Bar and Kitchen for soul food and some smooth music. 

42.  Experience high-end mixology at a top cocktail bar

• Cocktail bars

What is it?  Given the area’s renowned reputation for the sciences, it ’ s no surprise that Boston has a bevy of talented mixologists.

Why go?  Why go out for a simple beer when you can order an immersive sensory experience in a glass? For a truly mind-blowing cocktail, head to local trailblazers like  Drink and Better Sorts Social Club, both of which offer an expansive list of truly unexpected drinks.

Don ’t miss: For a next-level experience, try cocktails featuring house-made tinctures and shrubs at Parla. The North End spot even offers a dice game that lets you gradually unlock a secret drink menu.

43.  Make the rounds at Boston’s best donut shops

What is it?  Get your fill of sticky-sweet, fried goodness at Boston’s top donut shops.

Why go?  The antithesis of mass production (sorry, Dunkin'), Boston’s best donuts are lovingly made by hand, satisfying even the most discerning sweet tooth. Stick with the classics if you must—cake donuts and honey glazed are local favorites—but we recommend tearing into exotic options, such as sea salt bourbon caramel or blackberry lavender, found at popular new-wave spots  Union Square Donuts and Blackbird Doughnuts .

Don't miss:  For an old-school, no-frills option, head to Allston ’ s Twin Donuts .

44.  Laugh it up at the best Boston comedy clubs

What is it? There are many opportunities to laugh your socks off — either at one of Boston's veteran comedy clubs or during one of our bars' regular comedy nights.

Why Go? Some of America’s most popular contemporary comedians (e.g. Conan O’Brien, Bill Burr) honed their craft in Greater Boston. In the Theater District, big name comedians hold court at a variety of venues. Spending your evening yucking it up is a great way to unwind and boost your mood.

Don't miss: The Improv Asylum in the North End has a loyal following, especially when it comes to the more risque late-night shows.

45.  Get a feel for Ivy League life with a tour of Harvard

What is it?  There’s a lot more on the grounds of Harvard University than elite pupils and posing tourists.

Why go?  These iconic red brick walls contain some truly stunning stories, and a visit will connect you to a Who ’ s Who of American history. The Yard and overall campus features striking architecture designed by such luminaries as Bulfinch, Le Corbusier (his only American building) and Sert.

Don’t miss:  Steps from campus, Harvard Square contains some of the best eating and shopping in the city.

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The City has a wealth of museums, with everything from the Museum of Fine Arts to the Old State House.

Shopping and dining

Boston offers world-class dining and shopping options as well as local, artisan, and ethnic favorites. 

Theaters and venues

We have a number of places for residents and visitors to watch plays, films, and concerts.

With the recent success of Boston’s professional teams, there’s much to experience in the City of Champions.

Farmers markets

The Office of Food Access helps to oversee almost 30 farmers markets in Boston.

Public restroom maps

On a budget.

Boston's public art

Search Boston’s art collection, watch artist videos, access a map of public art installations across the City, and more!

Walk to the sea

This walk encompasses four centuries of Boston history. Mixing historical landmarks with Boston’s skyscrapers, this walk is truly one worth taking.

State House

Tours last about 30-45 minutes and include an overview of the history and architecture of the State Capitol.

Bunker Hill Monument

Climb the 294 steps up the famous monument for one of Boston’s best views.

The Swan Boats paddle passengers around the Public Garden Lagoon for a 15-minute peaceful cruise.

View all events on a budget

There are many tours across the City. You can even visit the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship in the world.

Uncovering Boston's history

It’s no secret Boston is rich with history. From the American Revolution to the site of the very first public school, it’s a city with stories to tell.

Planning your trip

Keep these dates and events in mind as they are usually busy times in Boston.

• December 31/January 1:  First Night/Day
• March (mid-month):  St. Patrick's Day Parade
• April (third Monday of the month):  Boston Marathon
• May (throughout the month): College graduation season
• June (beginning of the month):  Pride Parade
• June 29 - July 1:  Harborfest
• End of August/Early September: Moving day, students return 
• October (mid-end of month):  Head of the Charles Regatta
• December: Holiday season

Boston maps

We can't mail you any printed maps or guides, but these websites have some helpful maps.

Find a number of interactive maps of the Boston area.

Find printable maps of Boston as well as the Greater Boston area.

Find your way around Boston's comprehensive public transit system.

To and from Logan Airport

Bus service

The MBTA offers free Silver Line bus service from all airport terminals to South Station.

The MBTA offers ferry-boat service from Hingham or Hull to the airport, weather permitting.

Logan Express

Massport offers an express bus service from Back Bay to Logan Airport.

Massport provides free shuttle-bus service between airline terminals and Airport Station on the MBTA’s Blue Line.

Boston police regulate all taxis and pedi-cabs. Learn what you can expect from your ride.

Recommended Resources

Get help before you plan your next visit to our great City.

The primary private sector marketing and visitor service organization.

The Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau’s list of hotels.

Dedicated to promoting Massachusetts as a leisure-travel destination.

Get updates on events going on in the City.

We also put updates about events on our Facebook page.

Departments You May Need

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Boston

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Settled by Puritans in the 1600s, Boston has been defined and shaped by its history for nearly 400 years. The spirit of American independence was born in the city, and the sights that commemorate the vital role that the Sons of Liberty played in the Revolutionary War attract visitors from around the world.

While many tourist attractions in Boston revolve around its fascinating past, the city is equally renowned for its prestigious institutes of higher education and its fervent sports fans and pro teams. Add in its thriving arts and culture scenes, delicious local seafood and scenic harbourfront setting and it is no surprise that the ‘Athens of America’ attracts so many visitors each and every year.

Map of Boston

25. The Mapparium

Lying just ten minutes’ drive west of downtown you can find the Mary Baker Eddy Library and its amazing main exhibit, The Mapparium. Strolling through the three-storey stained-glass globe really is a very unique experience due to the interesting view it offers up of the world from the inside, its prettily colored countries and incredible acoustics.

As it was built in 1935, the massive map depicts the world of yesteryear with former countries such as Siam and Italian East Africa featuring alongside the Soviet Union. Aside from taking in all the fine details of its more than 600 stained-glass panels, guests can also experiment with its acoustics as the huge historic sphere forms a remarkable whispering gallery.

24. New England Holocaust Memorial

Another of the city’s many monuments is the moving New England Holocaust Memorial which can be found right in front of Boston City Hall. Erected in 1995, its six glass towers make for a striking sight with each symbolizing a different major extermination camp.

While the exteriors are engraved with numbers that represent the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust, the inside of the towers feature quotes from the survivors of the camps. In addition, the plumes of steam that rise through them are a haunting reminder of the horrific atrocities committed by Nazi Germany with the sombre ‘First They Came…’ poem by Martin Niemoller also being etched on a nearby plaque.

23. Cambridge

While it is renowned for being home to both MIT and Harvard University, there is much more to Cambridge than just the two prestigious institutes of higher education. Set just fifteen minutes’ drive northwest of the center, the major suburb has lots of lovely neighborhoods for you to explore with attractive architecture, interesting museums and countless cultural attractions all dotted about.

Known as the ‘City of Squares’ due to its unique layout, Cambridge lies just across the Charles River from downtown and has long been regarded as an academic and intellectual centre. While pockets of great bars and restaurants can be found around Central and Kendall square, historic colonial sites and contemporary buildings also abound.

The city’s main appeal however is undoubtedly its college campuses which contain world-class sites such as the Harvard Art Museums and Peabody Museum of Archaeology.

22. Old North Church

One of the most popular places to visit in Boston is the atmospheric Old North Church which lies in the historic North End neighborhood of the city. The oldest standing church in town, it was built in 1723 and exhibits some exquisite architecture with its tall steeple rising up dramatically above its surroundings.

Now a National Historic Landmark, the church contains a brilliant bust of George Washington with influential figures from the city’s past like Major John Pitcairn and Captain Samuel Nicholson being buried in its crypt. Immortalized in Longfellow’s famous poem ‘Paul Revere’s Ride’ which tells the tale of how he alerted the townspeople about the advancing British troops, the Old North Church is certainly well worth visiting for its intriguing history, architecture and ambience.

21. Bunker Hill Monument

Set on the opposite side of the river to the Old North Church you can find the massive and majestic Bunker Hill Monument. Actually perched atop of the prominent Breed’s Hill, the enormous obelisk commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill which was fought between British and Patriot forces on June 17, 1775 during the American Revolutionary War.

Towering to a huge 220 feet in height, the sparkling granite monument looms above Charlestown, the oldest neighborhood in the city, with green grounds lying all around it. After traipsing up its 294 steps to the top, visitors can enjoy breath-taking panoramas over both Boston’s skyline and the glittering Charles River.

20. Museum of Science

A fun, fascinating and family-friendly place to visit, the Museum of Science is home to a staggering array of interactive exhibits. Located in Science Park, a plot of land that spans the Charles River, it has everything from hands-on activities and live science demonstrations to a small zoo, planetarium and IMAX theater for guests to enjoy.

Since being founded in 1830, it has expanded considerably and now remarkably has more than 700 interactive exhibits for you to peruse. While some sections focus on human biology and the natural world, others transport you to the outer reaches of the cosmos with life-size dinosaur skeletons, mechanical models and machines all also on display.

19. Beacon Hill

Widely considered to be Boston’s most beautiful neighborhood, Beacon Hill is packed with quaint, cobbled streets lined by elegant townhouses. Set in the center of the city, its attractive architecture and appealing ambience make it a treat to amble about with the gold-domed Massachusetts State House being one of its standout sights.

Now one of the city’s most desirable and expensive districts to live in, it was founded in 1795 with fine Federal style rowhouses and free-standing mansions set alongside its atmospheric gaslit streets. Aside from snapping photo after photo of its charming houses, streets and gardens, visitors can also explore the various historic sights and monuments that are dotted along the Black Heritage Trail.

18. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Itself a work of art, the splendid Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum occupies a magnificent building that is modeled on a fifteenth-century Venetian palace. Complete with a gorgeous courtyard garden, the arresting edifice now hosts an impressive collection of American, Asian and European artworks.

First opened to the public in 1903, it is named after Isabella Stewart Gardner – a keen patron of the arts – with fantastic paintings and prints on show alongside ceramics, silverwork and sculptures. On top of seeing masterpieces by Rembrandt, Titian and Botticelli among others, guests can peruse its grand galleries full of furniture and textiles with an extensive old book collection also displayed next to Medieval, Islamic and Renaissance art.

17. Samuel Adams Brewery

If instead of art and architecture it is ales and IPAs that you are after, then you’ll certainly want to stop by the Samuel Adams Brewery. The flagship brand of the Boston Beer Company, its facility lies just twenty minutes’ drive southwest of the center with terrific tours and tastings being on offer.

Named after the Founding Father of the United States, the lovely little brewery is very interesting to tour around as you get to see the brewing, bottling and branding process. After having seen its state-of-the-art production line, visitors can sample some of its tasty brews in its tap room or beer garden with its Boston Lager and Wicked Hazy being particularly popular.

16. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

A must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the States, the brilliant Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum can be found just south of downtown. While its bright red buildings, educational exhibits and engaging activities are located on Congress Street Bridge, its two replica eighteenth century vessels bob about Griffin’s Wharf.

Through immersive experiences, re-enactments and excellent use of multimedia, the museum tells the story of the 1773 protest – the Boston Tea Party – and the events that led to the Revolutionary War. Besides watching short clips, touring its exhibits and dumping tea in the harbour yourself, you can also explore the Eleanor and Beaver to see what life was like aboard the historic ships.

15. JFK Presidential Library & Museum

Perched at the end of Columbia Point, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum is set in a stunning spot overlooking Boston Harbour. Dedicated to the memory of the 35th President of the US, it is home to lots of amazing artifacts and exhibits on his life and legacy with three theaters that show educational films also located on-site.

First opened to the public in 1979, it occupies a marvelous modern building made out of marble that was specially designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. Aside from exploring its light and airy galleries full of personal memorabilia, photos and press clippings, you can also learn about his time in the Oval Office and important issues and moments that shaped his presidency.

14. Old State House

Impressively the oldest surviving public building in the whole of Boston, the Old State House lies right in the historic heart of the city. Built all the way back in 1713, it now serves as a museum and is one of the most popular places to stop off at along the fantastic Freedom Trail.

Once the seat of the Massachusetts Assembly, the beautiful red brick building is best known for its balcony from which the Declaration of Independence was first read out to the townspeople in 1776. In addition to exploring its interior and taking in its fine architecture and exhibits, visitors can learn about the tragic events of the Boston Massacre which occurred right in front of the historic building.

13. North End

Yet another of Boston’s delightful historic neighborhoods for you to explore is North End which has remarkably been home to Europeans ever since the city was first settled in 1630. Now known for its Italian American community, the district’s scenic, centuries-old streets are lined by countless historic sites, attractions and dining establishments.

Besides seeing sights such as the Old North Church and Paul Revere House, visitors can stop off for a bite to eat or drink at any one of its cosy cafes or wonderful Italian restaurants and pizzerias. On top of all its attractive architecture and public artworks, the neighborhood also hosts innumerable community events and festivals over the course of the year that celebrate Italian culture.

12. Boston Public Garden

A very peaceful and picturesque place to wander around, Boston Public Garden can be found just to the southwest of the center, right next to the popular Boston Common. Home to pretty paths and ponds, plants and flowerbeds, the large park is a treat to visit at any time of year as its aesthetic and colors change so dramatically from one season to the next.

The first public botanical garden in the country, it was established in 1837 atop of what once used to be mudflats. Now immaculately manicured and landscaped, the garden’s gorgeous green grounds contain lush plants, flowers, trees and shrubs from all around the globe. Aside from taking a ride on its iconic Swan Boat pedalos, guests will come across numerous monuments dotted about with its statue of George Washington being the most famous of the lot.

11. Museum of Fine Arts

One of Boston’s top tourist attractions, the Museum of Fine Arts boasts an incredible collection of artifacts and artworks from all around world. Founded in 1870, it now occupies a grand neoclassical building in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood, overlooking the stupendous scenery and nature of the Back Bay Fens park.

One of the most visited museums in the world, it is particularly renowned for its amazing Art of the Americas wing which covers everything from pre-Columbian and colonial-era art to contemporary pieces too. In addition, its gigantic galleries also house fabulous Asian and Persian fine arts, ancient Egyptian mummies, masterpieces by European artists and much, much more.

With so many phenomenal paintings, carvings and sculptures to see and astonishing artworks by Goya, Rembrandt and Monet among others to enjoy, Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is definitely not to be missed when in town.

10. New England Aquarium

Located on the Central Wharf within walking distance of the Rose Kennedy Greenway, the New England Aquarium showcases numerous exhibits of sea life, from exotic jellyfish and stingrays to playful seals and penguins.

Opened in 1969, the aquarium’s standout feature is a 200,000-gallon Giant Ocean Tank situated in the main building’s atrium that replicates a coral reef environment. A spiral walkway around the tank gives onlookers a close-up view of sharks, barracuda, sea turtles and schools of small fish.

The facility is also home to an IMAX theater that shows movies with aquatic themes. Whale-watching tours are available too, and visitors can combine a cruise ticket with the aquarium’s price of admission.

9. Boston Harbor Islands

The 34 islands that lie off the coast of Boston offer visitors endless opportunities for fun in the sun and sea. Thirteen of the islands are included in the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. Must-see attractions include the Civil War Fort Warren on Georges Island and the public beach on Spectacle Island, which is only a 15-minute ferry ride away from the city’s Long Wharf.

Georges Island is home to the nation’s oldest lighthouse as well. With trails that wander past dunes and forested areas as well as a swimming beach, Lovells Island is a popular spot for camping.

8. Cheers Beacon Hill

Fans of the television show “Cheers” who want to visit the bar that inspired the hit series may need to travel to two separate locations to fulfill their wish. Renamed Cheers Beacon Hill in 2002, the Bull & Finch Pub located on Beacon Street served as the exterior shot of the bar featured in the opening credits, but the pub’s interior was never used for the show.

A replica of the show’s set, however, is on display at the historic Faneuil Hall market building downtown, and tourists asking for the location of Cheers are likely to be directed there. Both destinations sell souvenirs commemorating the show.

7. Fenway Park

Fenway Park has been home to the Boston Red Sox baseball team since 1912, and for the city’s inhabitants, it’s one of Boston’s most beloved landmarks. As America’s oldest major-league stadium in continuous use, the park is a must-see attraction for fans of the sport as well.

Fenway is also one of the few old-style parks remaining in the United States, and the park’s smaller-than-average field and infamous left-field wall known as the “Green Monster” makes the outcome of games played here hard to predict. Although games usually sell out quickly, visitors can often snag same-day tickets at the park’s box office. Tours of the park are available as well.

6. USS Constitution

Berthed at Pier 1 on the Harborwalk, the USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned navel vessel afloat, and still sets sail every Fourth of July to commemorate America’s independence. Launched in 1797, the three-masted Constitution was named by President George Washington in honor of the Constitution of the United States.

The thick, durable hull on the wooden frigate earned the ship its nickname “Old Ironsides” during the War of 1812 when the ship gained fame for defeating five British warships. The ship is open to the public year round with free tours provided by US Navy personnel.

5. Faneuil Hall

Located in Boston’s downtown district, Faneuil Hall is best known for the role that the brick building played during the American Revolution. Although built as a marketplace in 1742 with funds that donor Peter Faneuil acquired in the slave trade, the second-story assembly rooms became a gathering spot for patriots yearning for freedom.

Among them was the lawyer James Otis, who not only gave the building its nickname, the “Cradle of Liberty,” but coined the rallying cry “no taxation without representation” as well. The building is still used as both a marketplace and as a place for political debates and among the most popular tourist attractions in Boston.

4. Boston Common

America’s oldest public park, Boston Common was acquired by the city’s Puritan founders in 1634. First used as a cow pasture, the park is also the site of many historic events. The British used the area as a camp at the start of the Revolutionary War.

A plaque in the park marks the spot where public hangings were held. A kiosk hosted by Boston’s Freedom Trail Foundation offers visitors information about the park’s monuments. Landscaped with shady trees, fountains and a pond, Boston Common is a pleasant place to take a break from sightseeing excursions as well.

3. Back Bay

Bordered by the Charles River, the Back Bay neighborhood was so named because it was built on what once were stagnant pools of water. Today, the late-19th-century neighborhood is an upscale, fashionable district with picturesque streets lined with Victorian homes, trendy restaurants and chic boutiques.

The neighborhood is also home to the Boston Public Garden, the oldest and largest botanical garden in the nation. The Old South Church in Copley is worth a visit too. Built in 1874 in the Gothic Revival style, the church features an interior redecorated by Louis Comfort Tiffany in 1905.

2. Quincy Market

Designed by architect Alexander Parris and completed in 1826, Quincy Market is as well known for its architectural style as it is for the food that offered inside its more than 20 restaurants and 40 stalls.

Named after Boston mayor Josiah Quincy, the rectangular-shaped edifice was built in the Greek Revival style that Thomas Jefferson introduced to America as break from the Georgian architecture.

Constructed with granite, the building’s heavy materials provide a striking contrast to its delicate design, which includes a grand and ornate domed pavilion. Today, the market is known as a family-friendly spot where tourists and locals can grab a quick bite on the cheap.

1. Freedom Trail

America’s first historic walking tour, the Freedom Trail is a path that includes 16 of Boston’s most important Revolutionary War sites. Marked by a line of red paint, the 2.5-mile (4 km) trail starts at the Boston Common, the oldest park in the United States.

The tour leads visitors past the Old State House, the site of the Boston Massacre, where British troops fired into a crowd of protesting citizens. It passes by Paul Revere’s House and the Old North Church where two lanterns were hung in the steeple to warn that the British would approach by sea. The end of the path connects with the Harborwalk, leading visitors to the USS Constitution.

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Reader interactions.

May 17, 2018 at 1:26 am

Truly your shared all these places are the best for visit travelling point of view but I have a good experience of New England Aquarium because I have been there couple of the times in my whole life and every time had huge fun there. I hope you will fully enjoy there like I enjoyed.

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THE 10 BEST Boston Historical & Heritage Tours

Historical & heritage tours in boston.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Revolutionary Story Epic Small Group Walking Tour of Boston

2. Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark

3. Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution

4. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission

5. Boston's Best Freedom Trail Tour

6. Day Trip from Boston To Salem Witch Exhibits

7. Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour

8. Entire Freedom Trail Walking Tour: Includes Bunker Hill and USS Constitution

9. Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour

10. Martha's Vineyard Day Trip with Optional Island Tour from Boston

11. Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II

12. Boston: North End to Freedom Trail - Food & History Walking Tour

13. Walking Tour Downtown Freedom Trail + Beacon Hill & Copley Square

14. Boston to Newport Small-Group Day Trip with Breakers & Marble House Admission

15. Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl

16. Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour

17. Boston History and Freedom Trail Private Walking Tour

18. Public Small Group Walking Tour of the Full Boston Freedom Trail

19. The Small Group Boston Tour, I know secrets that others don't!

20. Haunted Boston Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour

21. The Massholes Comedy Trolley Tour of Boston

22. Boston Summer Nights Tour plus River Cruise

23. Boston "Death and Dying" Walking Ghost Tour

24. Guided Freedom Trail Walking Tour

25. Boston's Revolutionary and Drunken Past with Ye Olde Tavern Tours

26. North End Food and History Tour

27. Tour of Lexington and Concord from Boston USA

28. "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour

29. Iconic Boston Food Tasting and History Tour On the Freedom Trail

30. Boston Private Driving City Tour, groups of 1-4

What travelers are saying.

20 Best Things To Do In Boston At Least Once, For Locals And Tourists

From cheering on the Celtics at TD Garden to determining where to find the best seafood and cannoli, these are some of the most exciting things you have to do in Boston at least once!

Whether you’re spending 24 hours or 24 years in Boston, there are some foundational Bostonian experiences. We’ve covered the main bases when it comes to things to do in Boston. From camouflaging into a lively crowd of Boston sports fans at a league game, to tasting your way through Boston history-you must do try the things below at least once in Boston.

Without further ado, these are the best things to do in Boston!

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An estimated 25 million people visit Boston each year. That is crazy considering our population is under 1 million! Boston is synonymous with American history and boasts many exiciting tourism activities no matter your interests.

Boston Duck Tour

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Operating since 1994, Boston Duck Tours are a city staple. They are perhaps one of the most “touristy” things you can ever do in the city. But that’s because you get the most in depth debriefing on the major hubs of Boston. The amphibian vehicles tour the streets before descending into the Charles River for a boat tour of the city!

Pahk yah cah in the Harvard Yahd (but don’t actually)

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Boston is an effervescent city! Marked by an astounding education system and some of the best colleges in the world. Most famously, Harvard , is a must visit! Technically it is in Boston’s sister city, Cambridge, which is also a must visit while in Boston!

Tour the campus grounds, law school if you’re a  Legally Blonde  fan, and make sure to enjoy some food in Harvard Square !

See the city from above at View Boston

A popular attraction with locals and tourists alike, View Boston allows for a city vantage point 750-feet above! It’s especially stunning at sunset . Plus, check out the skyline dining for the perfect views of the city while you enjoy an enchanting meal.

Grab high tea at the Boston Public Library

America’s third largest public library, the Boston Public Library or BPL for short, is an enchanting showcase of 24 million media. And hidden inside is a refined tea experience adjacent to the courtyard. It’s a hidden gem and a must for tourists and locals alike!

Pro tip: Open a free Boston Public Library card if spending a prolonged time in Boston and enjoy these 20 perks !

As one of America’s oldest municipalities, founded in 1630, the history in Boston is rich and extensive! Here are a few of the Boston classics to travel into the past.

Freedom Trail

A Boston classic. 40,000 people travel this 2.5-mile-long trail each year.

It was first conceived in 1951 and takes you through 16 historical sites of Boston, including the Boston Common and Bunker Hill monument. While just 2.5 miles, if you plan to stop and observe all 16 sites, you can allot about 2 hours to complete the entire Freedom Trail.

Have a picnic in the Boston Public Garden

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The Boston Public Garden is America’s first public garden, and a great one at that! It’s stunning during all four seasons, from the foliage ablaze in the fall to the first blooms of spring to the flake dusted trees of winter and the vibrancy of the summer! We love the nearby cheese board purveyor, Kured and refreshments from DeLuca’s on Charles Street for the ideal picnic in the garden.

Reenact the Boston Tea Party

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This year marks the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party . The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum has everything you need to blast into the past. Explore their tea tasting room and throw some tea overboard* where the actual event took place centuries ago.

*Don’t worry the tea crates are affixed to the boat.

Learn about all of Boston’s great pioneers on the Innovation Trail

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A new addition to Boston is the 21-stop Innovation Trail . Many revolutionary items were invented in Boston, from the telephone to medical anesthesia. The Innovation Trail is a self-guided tour that takes you on the journey to explore them all and energize your inner inventor!

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What is Boston if not the greatest sports city in the world? Our teams are legendary, and we’ve got over 40 titles to prove it!

Cheer on the Red Sox at Fenway Park

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Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, a day at Fenway is a necessity. The baseball season runs from late March through October.

Between the competition, weather, color-coordinated crowd in red, white, and blue, and stadium food, Fenway is a quintessential Boston experience! If you really can’t get behind baseball or visit in the offseason, the concerts at Fenway are just as spectacular.

Go green at a TD Garden Celtics home game

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Basketball in Boston is elite. Celtics fans are loyal, and a bit spicy! The energy in-person at a Celtics game is contagious! If you can’t get tickets to a game, these nearby restaurants are another great place to watch or grab a post-game bite!

Watch the Bruins battle it out at TD Garden

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Basketball and hockey season run at about the same time, so you can catch a Celtics game one day and the next day catch an ice hockey game featuring Boston’s Bruins! We know…it’s magic!

Voyage to Gillette Stadium for a Patriots game

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Then there’s of course, football. If you’re a Bostonian and you still haven’t made it out for a Pats game in Foxboro, this is your sign! You can get there via Commuter Rail or hitch a ride. According to a recent study, Patriots fans are 11% “more passionate” than any other NFL fans.

Awe at rowers during the Head of the Charles Regatta

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Head of the Charles happens every year in October. It is the largest regatta in the entire world, and it takes place right on Boston’s Charles River. The best rowers in the world compete on Boston’s waters for 3 days of sports, style, and delicious food!

Cheer on Boston Marathoners (or complete it yourself)

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One of the world’s most prestigious marathons, the Boston Marathon has been around since 1897. It takes place every Patriot’s Day and over 30,000 participants compete. Cheering is so fun, but if you’re feeling bold, try the 26-mile race for yourself!

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You’ve gotta make room for some Boston bites! They’re scrumptious and a source of comfort for the most seasoned Bostonians.

Get a lobstah roll

Lobster roll, pronounced “lobstah roll,” is a heavenly toasted bun surrounding a cascade of hot or cold lobster. We prefer them hot with butter, fyi! These are the best lobster rolls in New England, according to Bostonians.

With a side of clam chowda

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And claw chowder is an essential New England dish. Pretty much any place that serves New England seafood will also have a trustworthy clam chowder.

And don’t forget the Boston Cream Pie!

Boston Cream Pie originated at the Parker House Hotel in 1856 Boston. The hotel still serves the same recipe to this day!

Determine who has the better cannoli on Hanover Street

Mike’s? or Modern?

It’s an open-ended question that simply doesn’t have an answer, until you give them both a try! Grab a cannoli in the North End at these Italian pastry shops and determine for yourself who makes the better cannoli! If you like Italian food and want to take some more bites of Boston, this North End food tour is a foodie dream!

Nature & Wellness

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Despite our insufferable and ever-changing weather, Boston is actually a great city for the outdoorsperson! Every season offers a new activity weather it be skiing in winter or exploring New England beaches in summer !

Go ice skating at Frog Pond

Repeatedly recognized as one of America’s premiere outdoor ice-skating rinks , Frog Pond is the perfect wintertime activity in Boston. Show off your moves on the ice or do your very best not to fall down, and enjoy the ice.

Pro tip: holiday weekend lines are insane! Try to go at night to catch the holiday lights, but during a weekday when it is less busy!

Take the Charles River Esplanade

Walk, bike, kayak, or just relax on one of the docks. The esplanade is a Boston treasure. And it never gets old.

No wonder it was selected as one of “America’s best riverwalks.”

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Morning Carpool

23 Civil War Battlefields That Have Become Profitable Tourist Attractions

Posted: May 28, 2024 | Last updated: May 28, 2024

The American Civil War, a defining period in United States history, left behind numerous battlefields that now serve as poignant reminders of the past. These historic sites have been transformed into must-visit tourist attractions, where visitors can walk the same ground where pivotal battles were fought. Each site offers a unique window into the strategies, heroics, and tragedies of the war, enhanced by museums, reenactments, and guided tours. As stewards of history, these battlefields keep the stories of the Civil War alive, attracting history buffs and tourists alike to learn and reflect.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Gettysburg is the site of the Civil War’s most famous battle, which turned the tide in favor of the Union. Today, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually who come to explore its vast museum, witness reenactments, and walk the historic grounds. The battlefield also offers guided tours that delve deep into the strategies and human stories behind the conflict.

Antietam, Maryland

Antietam was the backdrop for the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with over 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing. Now a national park, the site offers a reflective experience with well-preserved landscapes and informative visitor centers. Each year, the park commemorates the battle with ceremonies and historical talks that attract history enthusiasts from around the globe.

Manassas, Virginia

Known for two significant battles, First and Second Manassas (Bull Run), this site marks the first major land battle of the Civil War. The National Battlefield Park now serves as a poignant educational resource with trails, exhibits, and live demonstrations. Tourists can explore the ground where generals first tested their mettle and tactics in the early stages of the war.

Vicksburg, Mississippi

The Siege of Vicksburg was crucial for the Union’s control over the Mississippi River and is now a celebrated part of the Vicksburg National Military Park. Visitors can tour the restored ironclad USS Cairo and the sprawling national cemetery. The park’s extensive network of trenches and artillery placements still tells the harrowing tale of the siege.

Chickamauga, Georgia

The Battle of Chickamauga marked one of the major Confederate victories and was known for its staggering loss of life. Today, the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park educate visitors on the complex maneuvers and strategies deployed during this fierce battle. The site includes a visitor center with extensive exhibits and a 7-mile driving tour that guides tourists through key battle sites.

Shiloh, Tennessee

This battlefield in southwestern Tennessee was the scene of a surprise attack by Confederate forces on Union troops. Shiloh National Military Park now preserves the site, offering tours that explain the bloody two-day battle that ensued. The park’s serene setting contrasts sharply with its violent past, offering a stark reminder of the cost of war.

Fredericksburg, Virginia

Fredericksburg is known for its December 1862 battle, where repeated Union charges were devastatingly repelled. The battlefield has been preserved as part of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, which also covers other nearby battle sites. It offers a comprehensive look at the urban and plantation fighting tactics with walking tours and a historic trail along the Rappahannock.

Fort Sumter, South Carolina

Fort Sumter is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, igniting the conflict between North and South. Now accessible by ferry, the fort offers guided tours that detail its historic significance and the initial battle that took place. Visitors can explore the ruins and museum, which showcases artifacts and a detailed chronology of the fort’s role in the war.

Appomattox Court House, Virginia

This is where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War. The Appomattox Court House National Historical Park is now a symbol of national reconciliation and offers educational exhibits, restored buildings, and live historical demonstrations. Tourists can walk the same ground where the final chapters of the Civil War were written.

Petersburg, Virginia

The Siege of Petersburg was one of the longest of the Civil War, lasting nine months and leading to the fall of Richmond. Petersburg National Battlefield today offers visitors insights into the siege’s tactics and hardships through trails, guided tours, and reenactments. The site’s preserved earthworks and trenches provide a visceral sense of the prolonged conflict.

Chancellorsville, Virginia

Known for General Robert E. Lee’s audacious and risky tactics, Chancellorsville is often studied for its brilliant military strategies. The battlefield is part of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, offering a detailed exploration of the battle via driving tours and interpretive trails. Visitors can learn about the daring maneuvers and the high cost of Confederate victory, including the mortal wounding of Stonewall Jackson.

Stone River, Tennessee

The Battle of Stones River was a hard-fought and strategic Union victory that boosted Northern morale. Stones River National Battlefield now features a visitor center with engaging exhibits and a memorial dedicated to soldiers on both sides. The park conducts annual reenactments and guided tours, making it a vital educational destination for Civil War enthusiasts.

Pea Ridge, Arkansas

Pea Ridge was the site of one of the most pivotal battles west of the Mississippi River, securing Missouri for the Union. The Pea Ridge National Military Park allows visitors to explore the tactics that led to this crucial victory through guided tours and interpretive signs. The battlefield is especially noted for its well-preserved terrain and panoramic views.

Franklin, Tennessee

The Battle of Franklin was among the bloodiest hours of the Civil War, known for its intense hand-to-hand combat. Today, the city of Franklin offers numerous historical sites related to the battle, including the Carter House and Carnton, both of which serve as museums detailing the tragic events. Visitors can also walk the five-mile battlefield loop, which connects key areas of the conflict.

Spotsylvania Court House, Virginia

This 1864 battle is famous for its brutal hand-to-hand fighting and significant casualties. Part of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, the Spotsylvania battlefield features trails and tours that recount the fierce engagements that occurred. Visitors can explore the infamous “Bloody Angle,” where some of the war’s most intense fighting took place.

Wilderness, Virginia

The Battle of the Wilderness marked the beginning of the Overland Campaign, known for its chaotic combat due to the dense woods. The site is now maintained as part of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, offering tours that highlight the challenges faced by both armies. The battlefield also includes exhibits that explore the environmental impact of the battle and its effect on subsequent strategies.

Wilson’s Creek, Missouri

Wilson’s Creek was the site of the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River, marking a Confederate victory. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield preserves this significant site and offers a museum, a driving tour, and walking trails. The battlefield is particularly noted for its reenactments and educational programs, which vividly illustrate the tactics and challenges of the war.

Cedar Creek, Virginia

Cedar Creek witnessed a dramatic turn of events with a surprise Confederate attack followed by a crushing Union counterattack. Today, Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park host detailed historical tours and reenactments that recreate the battlefield drama. This site is celebrated not just for its strategic significance but also for its educational programs that bring Civil War history to life.

Monocacy, Maryland

Often called “The Battle That Saved Washington,” the Battle of Monocacy delayed Confederate forces long enough to fortify Washington, D.C. The Monocacy National Battlefield offers a visitor center with exhibits and walking trails that guide tourists through key parts of the battlefield. It’s an excellent spot for those interested in understanding strategic defensive battles.

Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia

The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain was a significant part of the Atlanta Campaign, known for its strong defensive positions. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park now offers hiking trails that follow the original battle lines and a visitor center with detailed exhibits of the campaign. The park’s programs provide great insights into the strategic decisions made during the battle.

Resaca, Georgia

The Battle of Resaca was one of the first battles of the Atlanta Campaign, featuring intense fighting over two days. Today, the Resaca Battlefield Historic Site offers a preserved landscape with interpretive panels and walking trails that tell the story of this critical engagement. Visitors are drawn to the annual reenactment, which vividly brings to life the tactics and turmoil of the battle.

Fort Donelson, Tennessee

The capture of Fort Donelson was a significant early victory for the Union, opening the Cumberland River as an avenue into the South. Fort Donelson National Battlefield features a visitor center with educational exhibits, a walking tour of the fort’s remains, and views of the strategic river. The site is particularly poignant for its role in shaping the early stages of the river campaigns.

Sailor’s Creek, Virginia

Sailor’s Creek saw one of the last major battles of the Civil War, resulting in a decisive Union victory just days before Lee’s surrender at Appomattox. Today, Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park offers detailed interpretive trails and live historical demonstrations. This site’s preservation helps visitors understand the final desperate days of the Confederacy and the war’s closing movements.

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