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The 16 best day trips from Boston

Take a break from city life and visit these nearby New England destinations—no packing required

While many of us could easily spend every waking moment in Boston, it can be refreshing to escape the city for 24 hours or so. Fortunately, this picturesque New England region offers an array of potential day trips from Boston, including quaint seaside villages, historic towns and stunning mountain vistas. So grab your pals or significant other, and hop on a ferry, train or automobile to one of these lovely destinations. Once you're back in town, you'll once again feel ready to take advantage of the  best Boston attractions ,  best free things to do in Boston  and  best museums in Boston . And when you need a little longer time away check out our list of the best weekend getaways in New England . RECOMMENDED: The Best Hotels in Boston

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips from Boston

1.  newport, ri.

The Newport mansions of the Gilded Age still impress with their grandeur—just as they were built to do. If you have time to only tour one estate, check out The Breakers . Near the International Tennis Hall of Fame , the Audrain Auto Museum houses a seasonally rotating display of incredible cars inside a gorgeous Art Deco building.

Take the Cliff Walk, which has stunning views of the ocean, or relax at the public Easton’s Beach . Stroll past cool shops and eateries on narrow Thames Street. On Marlborough Street, dine at the White Horse Tavern , which claims to be America’s oldest restaurant, or duck over to The Reef at Howard Wharf for dinner and drinks with a view. Near the harbor, Bowen’s Wharf’s buildings date back to the 1700s, now offering an inviting maze of restaurants and shops. Stroll over the causeway to Goat Island where the Newport Harbor Lighthouse is overlooked by the upscale Gurney’s Resort.

2.  Portland, ME

​​Maine's largest city, located about a two-hour drive north of Boston, attracts epicureans from around the country to its cobblestone streets. Wander the charming, hilly Old Port district, where every kind of boutique imaginable touts colorful wares. Pop into one of the many quaint pubs and dimly lit cocktail bars, like the excellent Jewel Box or Blyth & Burrows —the latter of which pairs the best in innovative mixology with equally scrumptious small plates. In the West End arts district, enjoy the I.M. Pei-designed Portland Museum of Art and the State Theatre , which hosts national acts, both musical, comedic and theatrical.

The food scene here lives up to the hype:   Cong Tu Bot for nationally celebrated Vietnamese fare;  Green Elephant for an inventive vegetarian meal;   Evo Kitchen + Bar for progressive twists on Mediterranean cooking; or  Union , a vibrant locavore haunt located at  The Press Hotel , whose historic building was formerly the home of the Portland Press Herald.

3.  Newburyport, MA

The Newburyport Historic District, which encompasses most of the downtown, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This treasure trove of well-preserved, Federal-period architecture includes the notable Cushing House Museum & Garden , home of statesman Caleb Cushing, and the Custom House Maritime Museum , which also unravels local history. The beautiful Waterfront Park and boardwalk has regular concerts during warmer months.

Catch a play or see a show at the Firehouse Center for the Arts , grab a gourmet sandwich and bottle of wine at Joppa Fine Foods ,  relax with excellent cocktails and modern Middle Eastern bites at Bar25 ,  dine on classic seafood at The Black Cow  or head to the Newburyport Brewing Company ,  offering a friendly tap room and beer garden.

Newburyport includes part of neighboring, sedate Plum Island , a barrier island overlooking salt marshes.

4.  Gloucester, MA

Shipbuilders and fishermen put Gloucester on the map, and both industries still exist there today —just  on a smaller scale. The Fishermen’s Memorial on Gloucester Harbor honors all those lost at sea, including the Andrea Gale and its crew, the real-life victims of The Perfect Storm . Check out the Cape Ann Museum , which has an amazing collection of art and artifacts specific to Gloucester and its surroundings.

Across narrow Main Street, you can savor straight-off-the boat seafood at the chic basement restaurant  Tonno . Oak to Ember  will impress with its menu of hearty, wood-fire-cooked dishes and thoughtful cocktails. Or, if you're more about ocean views, head to the Beauport Hotel , whose 1606 Restaurant has a great deck overlooking the water. Next door to the hotel, Beauport Cruise Lines offers seasonal jaunts around the harbor.

5.  Salem, MA

Salem is forever linked to its horrifying and fascinating 1692 Witch Trials. The curious flock to the home of presiding Judge Corwin, which today is a museum known as The Witch House . Halloween is a big thing here—so are new age and cult shops. On a less spooky note, the Peabody Essex Museum houses a wonderful art collection, and Salem is the birthplace of Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of The House of the Seven Gables. You can even tour the house he may have been writing about, the 350-year-old Turner-Ingersoll Mansion.

Though it only dates back to 1930, Pioneer Village —a 10-minute drive from downtown, in Forest River Park—reenacts early 17th-century colonial life. Eat like a local at Ledger or Settler , or nerd out with old school arcade games and pinball machines at Bit Bar . 

6.  Provincetown, MA

Creative, sassy P-Town—located only a 90-minute ferry ride from Boston—is an artsy LGBT hotspot. It’s got a great mix of galleries, restaurants and nightlife hangouts. Lined with dozens of colorful shops, friendly eateries and local businesses, Commercial Street is the bustling heart of the town. Seek out one of the many events and festivals that fuel the thriving arts scene.

The famous and seasonal  Lobster Pot is the biggest name in town for classic lobster rolls and fresh seafood treats. Climb the 252-foot granite Pilgrim Monument for dramatic harbor views, then escape to Race Point Beach to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the open ocean.

Eat innovative seasonal dishes at Strangers & Saints and great seafood at Mac’s Fish House , which has crispy fish and chips and Happy Hour dollar oysters. Explore the beautifully barren Outer Cape’s stretch of the Cape Cod National Seashore , including Truro’s picturesque Highland Light .

7.  Ogunquit, ME

Set on the breathtaking Maine coast, Ogunquit is a popular, classic beach town with a quiet ambiance, particularly in the cooler months when crowds disappear. But it’s also a historic arts community; the Ogunquit Museum of American Art was started in the 1950s by native artist Henry Strater, a student of Ogunquit’s Perkins Cove artists colony.

Wander the galleries around town, explore the Barn Gallery on Shore Road and get tickets to a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse —which boasts eight decades of professional theatre and summertime children’s productions—or another summer stock theater.

8.  Watch Hill, RI

A coastal village that’s part of the town of Westerly, Watch Hill has one of the best beaches on the East Coast, and celebrity glamour to spare. Get to town early and take a walk out on the Napatree Point Conservation Area , where  you’ll find the remains of Fort Mansfield and lots of beautiful birds like osprey and piping plovers.

After your nature walk, head into the charming town for a stroll and some shopping. The kids will love the vintage carousel, and be sure to have lunch at the Olympia Tea Room (supposedly Taylor Swift’s fave—you can take a peek at her house from afar, too, because it’s hard to miss). Finish the day with cocktails at the gorgeous Ocean House , where you can have a drink and a bite to eat.

9.  Concord, MA

Stroll to the Old North Bridge and explore the Minute Man National Historical Park’s five-mile Battle Road Trail, dedicated to the Battle of Concord (April 19, 1775), where militia engaged with British troops and ignited the Revolutionary War. The 19th-century Transcendentalist movement and its influential authors and thinkers—Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau and Bronson Alcott—were rooted in Concord, and the Concord Museum is a good place to connect the dots. Located just outside of Concord Center are Walden Pond , which honors Thoreau’s famed naturalist journal, and Orchard House , where Louisa May Alcott wrote Little Women 150 years ago.

Pick up a picnic lunch at The Concord Cheese Shop . The Saltbox Kitchen’s tasty dishes and small-batch brewery are both fueled by produce from its nearby Saltbox Farm. For dinner, Woods Hill Table  also sources from their own farm at Woods Hill in Bath, NH, and the sleek, seasonally-focused 80 Thoreau is worth the day trip alone.

10.  Providence, RI

Providence is a foodie’s dream. Why does this small capital city have so much kitchen talent? Nearby Johnson & Wales University’s College of Culinary Arts is a major factor. Hemenway’s downtown is the grand dame of area seafood restaurants;  Waterman Grille is a vibrant jewel on the East Side near Brown University; and Aleppo Sweets is a lauded Syrian bakery and cafe—just to name a few spots. Federal Hill, the city’s impressive Italian neighborhood, is also loaded with Italian eateries and shops. 

Waterplace Park is a lovely gathering spot, and it anchors the city’s annual WaterFire program, which runs from spring through late fall; braziers along the Providence River are lit at sunset and stoked with aromatic wood by black-clad figures on boats, while themed music plays.

Providence is home to the notable Trinity Repertory Company , and The Strand Ballroom & Theatre, one of the nation’s best rock venues. The Rhode Island School of Design’s museum includes one the country’s finest university art collections.

11.  Mystic, CT

Settled in 1654, Mystic was once a shipbuilding seaport village. Now, it's a quintessential New England town, packed with mom-and-pop shops and activities for the whole family to do. 

During warm weather, spend a few hours on the sea with a day sail or sunset cruise from Argia Mystic Cruises , or visit the famous Mystic Aquarium or the Mystic Seaport Museum .  

After working up an appetite, stroll through the village to see the famous weighted Bascule bridge . P ick up a sweet treat from award winning Sift Bake Shop  and  splurge on a Connecticut lobster roll at the The Shipwright's Daughter  or a hearty, grass-fed burger at the Engine Room .  And, if you must eat pizza in Mystic, head to Nana’s Bakery and Pizza for inventive takes on personal pies.

12.  Falmouth, MA

Falmouth is nestled on the southwestern part of Cape Cod, 20 miles south of the Sagamore Bridge. Lined with great beaches, cool boutiques and relaxing spots to eat and drink, it's also one of The Cape’s easiest towns to get to. Do breakfast or lunch like a local at The Pickle Jar Kitchen .

The Falmouth Museums on the Green brings 1700s Cape Cod to life; the Federalist home of Dr. Francis Wicks is wonderfully preserved and packed with original artifacts. The Shining Sea Bike Trail ,  which hugs the coast and brings you past lovely views of both the Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay, runs from Falmouth to Woods Hole. The trail’s name comes from “America the Beautiful,” the famous poem by Katherine Lee Bates, a Falmouth native. (Though once a railroad, the path follows ancient Wampanoag Indian trails.) One more highlight: the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Science Discovery Center .

13.  Lexington, MA

The best part of taking a day trip to Lexington? You can easily do it by bicycle by traveling down the Minuteman Bikeway , which begins in North Cambridge and runs right through the leafy suburb, some 15 miles northwest of Boston. This posh town is most famous for its historic Battle Green , where the bloody Battle of Lexington took place and patriotic Minute Men engaged the British Army on Lexington Common. Many of the original homes flanking the battleground are preserved, including one that serves as a visitor’s center.

Stroll Lexington Center’s mom-and-pop shops, enjoy homemade ice cream at Rancatore’s or dine at il Casale   from local chef Dante de Magistris, who draws from his family’s roots to make handmade pastas, delicious sfizis and classic dishes, all in a rustic-chic atmosphere. For an elegant Sunday brunch or dinner, The Inn at Hastings Park’s Town Meeting Bistro  is a modern pleasure involving sleek, seasonal dishes.

14.  Kittery, ME

Kittery, while most famous for its shopping, has so much more to offer. First stop: Bob’s Clam Hut , a 60-year-old roadside diner that serves incredible fried clams, sustainable local fish and amazing milkshakes. Next stop? Yes, shopping at the adjacent Kittery Premium Outlets , whose stores include everything from discounted Calvin Klein to Lindt chocolate.

Also known for the historic Portsmouth Naval Yard —which is in Kittery, not neighboring Portsmouth, NH—this sleepy town includes Tributary Brewing Company , which has a cool tasting room and live music on weekends.

The heart of Kittery Foreside, which is the downtown area, is Wallingford Square and it's dotted with all kinds of restaurants including the sleek bistro Anneke Jans  and casual asian eatery  Anju Noodle Bar . Or  stop by Lil’s Café , a quaint spot set in a former bank whose old walk-in safe is now its Vinyl Vault, a small alcove with used records for sale. Lil’s bakery downstairs turns out some of the best pastries in New England and excellent chai, too.

15.  Washington, CT

For a small town in rural Connecticut, Washington has a big reputation for its arts and architecture. The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens is set in a once-abandoned gas station and boasts lovely landscaping and revolving art exhibits.

Every July, the Litchfield Jazz Festival takes place at venues around town and world-renowned modern dance company Pilobolus holds its Five Senses Festival . In September, Gilmore Girls fans take over—the town inspired the beloved TV program’s fictional Stars Hollow. Surrounded by colonial architecture, you can shop at unique boutiques and treat yourself to dinner (and a room, for a real spurge) at the historic, luxurious Mayflower Inn .

16.  Stockbridge, MA

Just off I-90, Stockbridge is the gateway to the beautiful Berkshires, part of the Taconic Mountains. Main Street is home to the venerable Red Lion Inn , a one-time frontier town tavern that maintains a casual eatery called Widow Bingham’s Tavern, as well as a gorgeously original main dining room with traditional favorites and an award-winning wine list.

Nature and art dominate the area: Just off Park Street, behind Main Street, take the wooden footbridge and walk the Laurel Hill Association’s beautiful trails. Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum and see where the renowned illustrator and artist lived and worked. Nearby, visit Chesterwood , the home of the Lincoln Memorial sculptor Daniel Chester French, and Naumkeag , a Gilded Age architectural masterpiece. A few miles away in Lenox is the Tanglewood Music Center , the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s summer home. Nearby, you can take a guided tour of Edith Wharton’s home, The Mount , and learn about the woman behind the building and the books.

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How To Spend One Day in Boston: Itinerary for 24 Hour Visit

Posted on Published: 03/15/2023

Are you visiting the historic city of Boston? While we recommend a visit of at least four days – more if you want to do day trips in the area, there is a way to maximize your time on a shorter visit.

Perhaps you are visiting on a cruise stop, or are stopping by on a college visit, or a road trip. If you are wondering how to spend one day in Boston – this is what I would recommend.

Remember, we are focusing on several things that you can easily see in one day. So, we are skipping some of the museums and tours that you may prefer to see.

If you have something specific that you want to see, then you should do that. Otherwise, this 24-hour Boston itinerary is a great way to explore Boston and see some sites from American history and the American Revolution.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own. I had visited some of these paid attractions at no cost in the past.

If you are considering visiting multiple Boston attractions, you may want to purchase a Boston CityPASS . This allows you to pay one fee for admission to multiple popular attractions. While offerings are subject to change, right now the CityPASS offers the following:

Admission to these two attractions:

• New England Aquarium
• Boston Museum of Science

And then you can choose two of the following three (you don’t need to decide when you purchase):

• Boston Harbor City Cruises
• Franklin Park Zoo
• Harvard Museum of Natural History

You will likely need more than one day in Boston to take advantage of these incredible activities.

How To Spend One Day in Boston: Itinerary for 24-Hour Visit

When to visit boston.

This 24-hour Boston itinerary involves a lot of walking – and some of it is on unlevel and cobblestone sidewalks. We recommend visiting in the late spring, summer, or early fall when the weather is nice. If you are visiting during a different part of the year, you may want to choose a few items on this list and take public transportation between them.

Don’t forget your comfortable shoes . Because of the nature of the sidewalks in downtown Boston, we recommend flats or sneakers – leave the heels in your suitcase! You may also want to pack a rain poncho and/or umbrella for rainy days or pop-up showers.

Boston Public Garden

Start your day in the beautiful Boston Public Garden, the first public botanical garden in America. It’s free to walk through and explore.

The iconic Swan Boats, in the Public Garden, typically open in April for the season. It’s about a 15-minute ride, and worth doing. Reservations aren’t needed, and tickets can be purchased at the ticket booth.

Boston Common

The Boston Common is located adjacent to the Boston Public Garden. It was built two centuries earlier as the first public park in the United States. The Boston Public Garden offers more open space and fewer flowers and plantings than the Public Garden.

Be sure to look at the Frog Pond in the corner of Boston Common. While the Frog Pond is a skating rink in the winter, it offers a carousel in the warmer months.

Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is a picturesque, historic neighborhood in Boston. While there are shops, restaurants, salons, and fitness studios in the neighborhood, I recommend just walking by and admiring the architecture. Don’t miss Acorn Street, a beautiful street that is one of the most photographed in the city.

Beacon Hill is also home to the bar that inspired the bar Cheers. It was originally called the Bull and Finch Pub but was later renamed Cheers Beacon Hill.

Massachusetts State House

As you continue walking up Beacon Street towards Park Street, you’ll find the Massachusetts State House. This historic building was designed by Charles Bulfinch. It’s worth seeing, and it’s an easy stop on your walk.

Freedom Trail

You probably won’t have enough time during your one day in Boston to explore the entire 2.5-mile walk of the Freedom Trail . But you will still see some of it during this itinerary.

The Freedom Trail includes 16 historic sites – some of which are included in this list. If you are especially interested in US history, you may consider booking a guided tour of the area. Otherwise, you can follow the Freedom Trail yourself, along the red-line path painted on the sidewalk.

Granary Burying Ground

Take a detour on your walk to Tremont Street, where you can pass by the Granary Burying Ground. Many famous historic Bostonians are buried there, including Paul Revere and John Hancock.

Old State House

The Old State House, one of the oldest public buildings in the United States, is a Boston National Historical Park partner site. You can walk the exterior for free, but there is a charge for admission inside. Admission is free, however, with a ticket to the Old South Meeting House. You will need to use the stairs if you enter the museum.

Samuel Adams Statue

As you walk past the Old State House toward Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market, you’ll pass the Samuel Adams Statue. It’s located on Congress Street, right past the Sam Adams Boston Taproom.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace/Quincy Market

Faneuil Hall Marketplace/Quincy Market is one of the more popular attractions in Boston. It includes several buildings including the North Market and the South Market.

Faneuil Hall has lots of shops and restaurants including many chain locations. But there are also some independent pushcarts with fun souvenirs from the city, as well as street performers outside.

If you are hungry, visit the large food hall located in the center of Faneuil Hall. Here you’ll find many different food options, including Boston specialties, like clam chowder and lobster rolls .

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

Looking for a quick break? Continue walking toward the waterfront to the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park. This public park is located right on the water and has some beautiful views.

The North End is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Boston. This Italian neighborhood offers history as well as a collection of delicious restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. It’s the best place for lunch or dinner during your day in Boston.

While some of these North End restaurants accept reservations, many don’t. So you may want to do some research in advance, in case you have a place you really want to visit. Don’t miss a visit to one of the famous Boston bakeries – including Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry.

Old North Church is also located right in Boston’s North End. This church is thought to be where the famous “One if by land, two if by sea” came from. If you want to go into the church, there is an admission fee.

Visiting with younger kids? Ask about their scavenger hunt, which is included in the admission fee. The Old North Church does close seasonally, so be sure to check their website for the season-opening date.

Other Things To Do in Boston

This is just a sample itinerary, and there are lots of other things you may consider doing during your day in Boston. Here are some ideas:

• Fenway Park (tours are offered, and are a great way to see the park without attending a game)
• Harvard Square and Harvard University (in nearby Cambridge)
• Boston Museum of Fine Arts
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
• USS Constitution
• Boston Museum of Science (and see the Charles River)
• See a show at the Boston Opera House or another venue in the Theater District (including Blue Man Group)
• Tour on a Boston Duck Boat
• The Boston Tea Party Ship
• The Boston Children’s Museum
• Paul Revere House
• The Old South Meeting House

Hotels in Boston

While this is just a one-day itinerary, you may need to spend an overnight in Boston. Here are some of the more popular hotels in the area:

• Bostonian Hotel ( book here )
• The Verb Hotel
• Boston Marriott Long Wharf
• Hotel Commonwealth
• The Four Seasons Boston
• Omni Parker House
• The Seaport Hotel

You can also search through the map below to see some great options (affiliate)

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Boston   Travel Guide

1-day Itinerary in Boston

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

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Boston

From antiques shopping to history to house museums, here's exactly what to do in Beantown.

Welcome to the VERANDA Weekend Guides , where we show you how to make the most of a weekend in our favorite destinations. Here, we’ll show you what to do in Boston, Massachusetts, an iconic American city that’s chock full of history, horticulture, art, antiques, and heavenly gastronomy. From luxury hotels and designer-appointed book shops to Ivy League institutions and historical locations of the American Revolution, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Beantown.

Though the most popular time to visit Boston is in the summer when the weather is warm, we love how the city comes to life in the autumn. With beautiful foliage that looks striking against the red brick buildings and crisp days that are perfect for exploring the town on foot, it's a can't-miss destination this fall. Read on for our editors’ tried-and-tested Boston travel tips, plus the best things to do in Boston while you're there.

Friday Morning

After arriving, head to The Newbury Hotel , a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and recent recipient of two-Michelin keys. Centrally located in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston, it's the perfect home base for the weekend.

For the coziest vibes, book one of the luxe fireplace suites, which are equipped with plush king beds, a marble bathroom with a walk-in rainforest shower, and wood-burning fireplaces (available from October-April). If you’re feeling a little chilly when you arrive, ring for your fireplace butler (yes, really) and choose from a variety of woods—including birch, cherry, oak or maple—to scent the space and add instant ambiance.

Friday Afternoon

Once you’ve gotten warm and freshened up, it’s time to head across the river to Cambridge to explore Harvard. If you’re feeling peckish, head to Pinocchio’s Pizza & Subs for lunch. This hole-in-the-wall gem serves up pizza by the slice, subs, salads, and sandwiches. If you want something a bit more elevated, head to The Mad Monkfish for sushi, Thai curries, noodles, and more.

Next up, head to the Harvard Art Museums collective , which features nearly every period of art history—including paintings from Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Jackson Pollock; contemporary works; and remarkable objects from ancient cultures.

From there, walk around the campus and take in the beauty of this 388-year-old Ivy League institution. Go ahead and grab some gear at the bookstore (FYI, there are actually two of them, the Harvard Book Store is an independent bookseller, while The COOP is best for finding branded swag.)

Friday Evening

After a busy day, head back to the room to freshen up before heading to dinner at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, Contessa (make sure to book reservations ahead of time). This beautiful dining concept was designed by Ken Fulk and overlooks Boston Common, making it the perfect place to toast the start of your vacation.

Do not miss the squash carpaccio if it’s on the menu, but with delicious options like ribeye tagliata, spicy lobster capellini, and veal Milanese, you truly can’t go wrong with anything you order. Bonus points if you get the hand-spun olive oil gelato for dessert. Hey, you deserve it after a day full of walking!

Saturday Morning

One of the best parts about staying at The Newbury Hotel is that you’re centrally located and get to explore some of the most beautiful spots in Boston by foot. Put Beacon Hill Books & Cafe in your phone’s GPS and take the walking route through Boston Common (make sure to take a pic at the iconic ‘ Make Way for Ducklings ’ sculpture!). Once you arrive in Beacon Hill, you’ll also want to take a photo on Acorn Street, a cobblestone-lined path that’s considered one of the most scenic spots in America.

Saturday Mid-Morning

When inside Beacon Hill Books & Cafe , head through the Alice in Wonderland -esque tunnel to the restaurant (we recommend making reservations in advance). Whether you go sweet with seasonal scones or savory with an egg dish, this adorable Cathy Kincaid-designed cafe will have you swooning with its charming Sister Parish wallpaper and fabric, Juliska tableware, and oversize latte mugs.

Venture upstairs to the bookstore (also designed by Kincaid) and get ready to marvel over all the whimsical decorating details (see if you can spot the hidden fairy house!). Our favorite spot is actually the children’s section—with a moving train that goes around the room, secret doors, and surprises everywhere you turn, we could spend hours in this delightful shop.

Saturday Afternoon

Next up, it’s time for some antiquing! Stores like Elegant Findings Antiques and Upstairs Downstairs Home are both within walking distance, but any shops around the Beacon Hill neighborhood are sure to be a treasure trove full of vintage and antique finds.

If you’re feeling peckish after a morning of shopping, head to 1928 Beacon Hill for lunch. Though the restaurant technically offers brunch during weekend afternoons, you can still enjoy elevated classics like salads, fish and chips, and farmers market bowls.

If you’re up for some more walking and the weather is nice, take a rideshare to the Freedom Trail . There are plenty of walking tours to choose from that cover important historic sites such as the Massachusetts State House,Granary Burying Ground, King's Chapel, Old State House, Boston Massacre site, and Faneuil Hall, or you can walk it yourself with an audio guide. You’ll get to experience stories of the American Revolution and learn the history of historically underrepresented people from the 16th to the 21st centuries.

Saturday Evening

You’ve had a full day on your feet, so head back to The Newbury to freshen up (and perhaps enjoy one of those incredible rainfall showers). Once you’re ready for dinner, take a rideshare to the North End for some incredible Italian food. You can’t go wrong with Antico Forno or Mamma Maria , but do not leave without getting a cannoli from Modern Pastry (Pro tip: Bring cash, as they don’t accept cards, and thank us later).

Sunday Morning

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before walking to the Boston Public Library . Established in 1848, this centuries-old cultural institution is a design lover’s paradise. The building, designed by architect Charles Follen McKim, was intended to look like a palace, and it’s one of the finest examples of 19th-century architecture in America.

Next up, walk the two minutes to Trinity Church. If there’s no active service, take a tour and explore its incredible architecture, stained glass windows, painted decoration, and statuary. It’s no wonder it was designated as “one of the ten most important buildings in America” by the American Institute of Architects.

Afterwards, take a quick rideshare to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . This iconic house museum features the collection of Isabella Stewart Gardner, including more than 7,500 paintings, sculptures, furniture, textiles, silver, ceramics, rare books, and archival objets d’ art from all over the world.

Sunday Afternoon

After a morning of design overload, you certainly deserve a lunch break. Take the scenic walk along the Emerald Necklace to Eventide in Fenway for delicious oysters, chowder, chili crisp wings, and brown butter lobster rolls. Since you’re in the area, make sure to peek at Fenway Park , the oldest MLB stadium and home to the Boston Red Sox, before heading back to your hotel.

If you have the energy (and it’s still early in the season where flowers are in bloom), head to the James P. Kelleher Rose Garden or The Fenway Victory Gardens . The latter is the last remaining World War II victory garden that features 7.5 acres full of flowers and produce.

Sunday Evening

Take a rideshare back to the hotel to freshen up (and maybe enjoy one last bespoke fireplace experience). For your last hurrah, head to Yvonne’s for dinner. This modern supper club is located in the old Locke-Ober building that still preserves much of the iconic haunt’s original architecture.

You’ll enter through a door of the back of a blow-dry bar into a 150-year-old interior outfitted with glamorous design. Equal parts well-appointed restaurant and sexy speakeasy, you can enjoy dishes like Tunisian chicken pitas, shareables like lobster dumplings and zucchini za’atar, and a fabulous cocktail list. Go ahead and toast to your successful trip—and vow to come back to Beantown soon.

Jaime Milan (she/her) is the deputy digital editor for VERANDA, where she manages the brand's cross-platform digital strategy. She also writes and edits dozens of stories each month about design, architecture, gardening, jewelry, travel, entertaining, shopping, news, and trends. Prior to joining VERANDA, Jaime was a digital editor for over 10 years at national news and lifestyle brands and has written everything from in-depth packages and celebrity news to features and holiday gift guides. In her spare time, she can be found shopping at the antique store, cooking, gardening, or teaching her mini Australian Shepherd, Gumbo, new tricks. Follow her on Instagram at @jaimemmilan . 

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One Day in Boston Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is one of the oldest cities in America and has played an important role throughout the country’s history. Harvard university was the first university to be built in America (1636), the Revolution began here, the first public school was built here, and the first state constitution was written here. Boston has given to the world the Kennedys, Sam Adams (and his beer), and Aerosmith. In this city, you will find friendly locals, die hard sports fans (home of the Red Sox and Celtics), great bars, good restaurants, and a mountain of American history. Do not miss out.

GUEST POST BY KEITH EVANS BLOG :  My Passport To Shangrila

Plan your trip

1. What’s the best time to visit Boston? 2. What’s good to know about Boston? 3. One Day in Boston Itinerary 3.1. Freedom Trail 3.2. Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market 3.3. Boston Common 3.4. George Washington Memorial 3.5. Boston ‘NEW’ Statehouse And Beacon Hill 3.6. Boston ‘OLD’ Statehouse 3.7. Holocaust Memorial 3.8. Boston Harbour 3.9. If you have the time… 4. Where to stay in Boston? 5. Day trips from Boston 6. Camping in Boston

What’s the best time to visit Boston?

Boston is a very popular city break destination for both Americans and for the wider world. The mercury in the thermometer will rise into the mid-80s during the summer months when days are long. The winter months can fluctuate. They can be either cold and damp or cold and shoulder deep in snow. Of course, the most impressive season to visit New England is  autumn,  when the trees change color to all sorts of beautiful hues.

What’s good to know about Boston?

– Architecture! The buildings are stunning. Boston is very British colonial from back in the day, and the city oozes of 17th century Georgian architecture. The history of this city is incredible. There is so much to see and do.

– From Boston Logan Airport, the cheapest and fastest route into the city is to use the Silver Line  which is FREE inbound to South Station (including a free transfer to the Red Line).

– The Silver Line Route SL1 (Logan Airport – South Station via Waterfront) bus rapid transit service is your best direct option to South Station Rail & Bus Terminal, for connections to Commuter Rail, Amtrak and bus and to the Red Line.

– For foodies, Boston serves some incredible seafood. Make your way down towards the harbor front and Quincy Market for some great treats.

One Day in Boston Itinerary

To do this city in 24 hours would actually be an injustice. However, if 24 hours is all you have, then get out early and explore! Boston offers a bunch of tours. Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Boston.

 Walk the Freedom Trail

Starting your one day in Boston by walking the Freedom Trail certainly seems like a great idea. It is really easy to follow because of the red bricks and metal seals that will lead you along. Thanks to them, you can easily tour the trail by yourself, but there are also guided tours you can book (like self-guided tour or a Boston history tour ). Get to Paul Revere’s House , for example, or explore the venue where Boston Tea Party took place, check out USS Constitution  and do so much more.

 Check Out Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market

Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market is a popular place for locals and visitors to hang out. During the day, a lot of people go shopping. At night, the restaurants are filled with people and the spot is one of the biggest bar destinations in the city. The cheap Irish pubs that fill the area are widely popular.

Everyone should eat in Quincy Market at least once. Grab your meal from one of the many restaurants in the colonnade, head outside to watch the people go by, and enjoy a street performer’s show.

 Head to Boston Common

Boston Common is a huge outdoor open public park. On a summer day this park is filled with locals looking to enjoy the nice weather. Lie down, play some sports, read a book or just relax. Wander around to the Public Gardens, or sit by the Frog Pond. It is a great way to enjoy the city without spending a penny.

 See the George Washington Memorial

Boston Common is also home to the George Washington Memorial. The height of the statue is 22 feet, and the fine granite pedestal is 16 feet high. The foundation is of solid masonry, resting on piles 11 feet deep. The location of the statue is most attractive. It is placed in the centre of one of the finest thoroughfares of the Garden, handsomely enclosed, and surrounded by beautiful flower beds. It was placed into position and unveiled on July 3rd, 1869.

 Stop by Boston’s ‘NEW’ Statehouse and Beacon Hill

If you visit Boston Common, then you need to visit the Statehouse and Beacon Hill. The Statehouse forms a part of the Freedom Trail, this is a neighborhood that is brimming with history. Beacon Hill backs onto Boston Common: this area was home to the likes of John Adams and John Hancock (Colonial Revolutionaries) and resembles parts of historic Philadelphia.

 Don’t forget Boston’s ‘OLD’ Statehouse

Following the Freedom Trail will take you past the Old State House before it moved towards Beacon Hill. The Old State House stood as an emblem of liberty in Boston for over 300 years. Built in 1713 to house the colony’s government, the Old State House was at the centre of civic events that sparked the American Revolution.

Visit the Holocaust Memorial

The Holocaust Memorial is an outdoor space, open and accessible to the public at all times. It is located in Carmen Park near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, on Boston’s historic Freedom Trail.

 Take a Stroll in Boston Harbour

Boston Harbour is a long stretch of pedestrian walkways that incorporate the Charles River where you can take a ‘ Duck Tour ‘, catch the Harbour Islands Tour, or catch a ferry to Provincetown and Cape Cod. The area is accessible from Quincy Market and during the summer months is a hive of activity.

If you have the time…

If you really do have enough time in Boston, make your way to the harbour and catch a ferry that takes 1 hour 30 minutes to Provincetown on Cape Cod. Even if you only have a couple of hours to spend here (and trust me, you will need much longer) it would be a trip worthwhile. The area is best known for its scenic beaches, art galleries, and the Pilgrim Monument. Many people do not know that Provincetown was actually the first landing area of the first Pilgrims coming across from England on the Mayflower in 1620.

Where to stay in Boston?

TIP: Click here to find the best accommodation deals in Boston.

Charlesmark Hotel

655 Boylston Street, Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116, United States of America

Charlesmark Hotel is a boutique hotel, located in a historic building in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood at Copley Square. The hotel is one of the best value deals in the city. Compact rooms come with modern furniture and great lighting.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Harborside Inn

185 State Street, Financial District, Boston, MA 02109

Harborside Inn is a modern and stylish hotel located in Boston’s waterfront district , only a 10 minute walk from the beach. The cream-colored rooms provide a relaxing and comfortable stay. The hotel features an on site restaurant and a business center.

YOTEL Boston

65 Seaport Boulevard, Waterfront, Boston, MA 02210

YOTEL Boston is a 4 star hotel offering a tech-forward concept of living. The hotel is situated in Boston’s Seaport District, and offers a rooftop terrace with the panoramic views of the city. The compact cabin rooms provide tech and trendy features like SmartBed, mood lighting etc.

HI – Boston Hostel

19 Stuart Street, Theater District, Boston, MA 02116

HI – Boston Hostel is an ultimate hostel experience in the heart of Boston, only a five minutes’ walk to Boston Common. The hostel offers both dormitory style rooms and private rooms. The hostel features a game room with a pool table and TV.

Day trips from Boston

US East Coast has plenty to offer, no matter what you’re looking for. Therefore, day trips from Boston are a good idea indeed. Explore this area of the United States through one of these great destinations.

Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is an island near Cape Cod you reach by boat (about half an hour’s ride). It has several very pretty and quaint towns you can explore, so this is a perfect way to escape the city crowds. Additionally, great beaches can be found on the island, too. Therefore, Martha’s Vineyard is a complete package of rest and relaxation. Come and see why this is the favorite holiday destination for people from this part of the country.

New England

The states known collectively as New England are also a great day trip destination because it’s easy to cover a lot of ground. Drive along the coast for some beautiful sights , explore the interesting lighthouses you will find along the way and check out the fascinating architecture of the area. The village of Kennebunkport is a particularly attractive destination not just because of its beauty but because of its great food scene and numerous shopping options. So, you are in for quite a day, no doubt about that.

Wrentham Village

How about some shopping? Like, really serious shopping. Wrentham Village is the largest outlet center in the New England area with almost 200 different outlet stores. Less than an hour away from Boston, it’s quite easy to reach and lose an entire day there browsing all the shops and getting some great deals. A shopping dream come true. Don’t worry – a pretty good selection of restaurants is here too, so you can always sit down and take a break from shopping.

Camping in Boston

Make the most out of your Boston experience by camping even just for a day. Boston Harbor Islands are available for camping, including the Bumpkin Island, Grape Island, Lovells Island, and Peddocks Island.

Here are important things to bring when camping:

• Tent: Outdoorish.com highly recommends a lightweight tent for backcountry camping for solo or two-person trips. A cabin-style tent is recommended for multiple campers that can accommodate up to six people. When choosing a tent, there must be a space of at least 30 square feet per person for the sleeping area. A simple A-frame tent is easy to set up and also affordable on the pocket. One the other hand, a dome-shaped tent provides more headroom.
• Inflatable Sleeping Pad: Backpackers are using inflatable sleeping pads because of more comfortable and thicker material than closed-cell foam. Also, inflatable sleeping pads are lighter in weight compared to self-inflating pads. Sleeping pads provide a cushioned sleeping surface, keeping you comfortable and insulation from very cold ground temperatures.
• LED Headlamp: LED headlamps provide a hands-free option to a flashlight. By using an LED headlamp, you don’t have to be scared whenever the sun goes down, and you can still have late-night runs.
• Camp Chair and Table: Get a comfortable camp chair to sit on, and a camp table to prepare food on.
• First Aid Kit: You’ll never know when an emergency occurs, so it’s crucial to always have a first aid kit available with wound care supplies and basic medications for fever, allergy, and food poisoning.
• Sleeping Bag Thermal Liner: Prevent nighttime shivers using a thick thermal liner for a sleeping bag.
• Clothesline: If you don’t want your clothes hung on tree branches or anywhere in the wild, bringing a clothesline is highly recommended.
• Thermos Container: It’s a great solution to keep drinks and food hot, including coffee, soup, and broth.
• Firestarter: Don’t tire yourself making your own fire, so bring a firestarter for more enjoyable and convenient camping.

– Getting travel insurance is never a bad idea – being extra careful can never hurt. So, when you’re planning your trip to this amazing destination, take a peek at the World Nomads’ website . It will allow you to buy travel insurance in a jiffy, even if your trip has already started. More than 150 activities are covered by these guys, so you really have nothing to worry about once your vacation gets started and you will definitely be able to enjoy everything much more knowing that somebody’s got your back no matter what. Visit World Nomads today!

– Boston has what I call the “Cool Vibe” like those of San Francisco (California), Manchester (England) and Melbourne (Australia). The city has a great relationship with itself and the surrounding harbour.

– The people are friendly. The history, something much of the US lacks, is vibrant and the city is clean. There is so much to do and see and surprisingly many outdoor activities are free. It’s a great place to chill out and grab a few drinks in the many bars or public parks. The skyline views from the harbour front are stunning and the weather favorable. If you are still new to the idea of Boston, you will not be disappointed at all. Go and do it!

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Boston Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Keith Evans

British Born and raised in "Alice in Wonderland" country. From a small village known as Daresbury, Cheshire where the infamous story was fabricated. Traveling around the globe is not only a hobby but a true life experience. The World and Geography have always been of interest since a child and it was not uncommon for me to be seen reading atlases and maps rather than storybooks. South-East Asia is my happy place. Its where most of my memories are made. Life is a rich tapestry.

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Awesome post! This is helpful post. This article is clear and with lots of useful information. Thanks for the run down!

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One Day in Boston Itinerary

If you are visiting Boston for the first time and have just one day, this itinerary will give you a great taste of what Boston is all about.

You will walk in the footsteps of the American Revolution, see landmark buildings, and go to a top museum.

You’ll even have time to get a panoramic view of the city and have a fun night out!

A big bonus: This itinerary is practically free!

You'll need money for food, a few rides on the very affordable public transportation system, and paid attractions, should you choose to go to one.

We are local tour guides who lead hundreds of visitors and locals each week through the streets of Boston on our pay-what-you-wish walking tours .

We've used our expertise and these experiences to help craft this one-day Boston itinerary.

Additionally, we considered the opinions and suggestions of the roughly 16k members of our popular  Boston Travel Tips  Facebook group.

Our group consists of locals, like our tour guides, who moderate the group, expats, regular visitors, as well as newbies to Boston.

You don't need to become a member to search for and read the posts, comments, and suggestions.

Check us out once you are finished reading this post.

• One Day Itinerary
• Sightseeing Tours
• Boston Travel Guide
• 27 Places to Visit in Boston
• Things to Do in Boston

Your day will start by seeing some of the most significant places in American History by walking the Freedom Trail , a 2.5-mile long path that connects 16 historic sites.

You will see places like the Massachusetts State House , the Granary Burial Ground , Boston Common, Old South Meeting House, the Boston Massacre Site, and Paul Revere’s House.

If you’d like to visit these sites and learn about them with a local guide, join us for our 2-hour pay-what-you-wish guided walking tour of the Freedom Trail .

To explore on your own, you can use our Freedom Trail Map and Self-Guided Tour to find your way along the trail and learn about the stops along the way.

Another option is to take our GPS-enabled Audio Tour . Listen to a sample of our Freedom Trail Tour.

Take a pause in your journey at Faneuil Hall , to grab lunch at Quincy Market , part of the Faneuil Hall complex of four buildings.

Here you’ll find dozens of food stalls serving many types of cuisine and local specialties, like Boston Clam Chowder and "Boston Style" pizza.

After lunch, continue walking the Freedom Trail to the last two stops, the USS Constitution and Museum and the Bunker Hill Monument.

You can walk the entire way to these sites, or take public transportation via the MBTA Water Shuttle . 

It’s a short boat ride across the Charles River and at $3.25, it’s like a bargain scenic harbor cruise!

The USS Constitution

This permanently docked vessel was constructed according to the Naval Act of 1794 and was fundamental in helping America defeat the British in the War of 1812.

Tours are offered throughout the day and are pretty interesting.

If you are traveling with kids , this may just be the highlight of their day in Boston!

You can visit the ship year-round and admission to the ship is free. It’s one of the best free things to do in Boston .

See how to visit the USS Constitution and Museum .

Bunker Hill Monument

The Bunker Hill Monument is a 221-foot-tall granite obelisk marking the site of the first major battle of the American Revolution.

Besides witnessing a big piece of history, you can also get a good view of Boston from the top of the monument.

There’s also a nifty small museum at the base of the monument.

The monument and museum are free to visit and are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

For more information, read our guide to the Bunker Hill Monument and Museum Guide

Before evening, you can fit in time to stop at one of the city’s many fine museums. Whatever your interest, there is a museum for you!

Better still many are free or offer free hours/days.

Read about these museums from our post, Free Museums in Boston .

Start your night by having delicious food in Boston's North End, the city's Little Italy.

Check out our post on places to eat in North End/Little Italy for recommendations from our local guides.

After dinner, we suggest one of the two activities below. One is free and the other requires you to buy a ticket.

If neither appeals to you, take a look at our post, Things to Do in Boston at Night for other ideas.

Option 1: Discover Beacon Hill

Stroll through Boston’s charming Beacon Hill.

Our 90-minute self-guided tour makes it easy for you to see the highlights of this neighborhood.

You could also take our GPS-led audio tour of Beacon Hill. Here's a sample.

If there is a crime buff in your group, you might like our pay-what-you-wish Beacon Hill Crime Tour , which runs several nights a week from April through October.

Option 2: Attend a Sports Game

If you are in town from April to October, spend your evening seeing the iconic Boston Red Sox play baseball at historic Fenway Park .

From October to April, you can see the Boston Celtics (basketball) and the Boston Bruins (ice hockey), and from September to January, the New England Patriots (football) all at other venues.

Your one day in Boston has come to an end, and we hope you enjoyed every minute of it!

If you are in town for more than one day, or decide after 24 hours that you simply must stay longer, check our extensive post, Things to Do in Boston , which includes a three-day itinerary.

TIP: Given the limited time you will have, another way to spend your time is to take a sightseeing tour. They are an ideal way to learn about a city in a short amount of time.

Below are some tours to consider

SIGHTSEEING TOURS

There are different types of tours to choose from and it depends on what you hope to get from your experience.

The walking tours are pay-what-you-wish but boat and bus tours do require a ticket.

To save on activities like this, consider looking into a tourist concession

pass which we explain below .

Walking Tours

These tours allow you to see the city up close while locals share their first-hand insight and stories about the sites you will visit.

Free Tours by Foot offers several pay-what-you-wish guided walking tours of Boston.

See what tours we are offering here .

We also have several self-guided Boston tours  that lead you to the locations we think are the most important places to visit in Boston but allow you to move at your own pace.

Our audio tours are another way to get to know the city. You pick the time, plug in your headphones and listen to one of our guides tell you about the sites you will see.

Boston Bus tours are a smart way to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time.

In Boston, you have a bunch of options.

Hop-On-Hop-Off tours are popular as are Duck Tours (amphibious vehicles).

There are also Night Tours and Ghost Bus Tours, as well as Boston TV and Movie Tours

Read about the various Boston Bus tours .

Thanks to all the water surrounding Boston, there are many boat tours to choose from.

Sightseeing Boat Tours give you a nice overview of the city from the water.

Dining Cruises and Sunset Boat Tours are a relaxing way to spend the evening hours while getting great views of Boston from your boat.

For something different, take a cruise on a tall ship, which is a large sailboat of the kind you'd see in Boston Harbor in the 1600s!

TOURIST CONCESSION PASSES

If you do plan to visit a paid attraction during your one day, you might want to look into purchasing a Boston tourist concession pass.

These passes bundle tickets for attractions and tours for one lowered price.

Check out our post on Boston concession tourist passes where we analyze and compare the various passes.

Related Posts

• Free Things To Do in Boston
• Things to Do in Boston at Night
• Family-Friendly Activities in Boston

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Brian Burgess

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

One Day in Boston: The Perfect 24-Hour Itinerary

The Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Boston

Sooo, you’re shipping up to Bah-ston, eh?! While we highly recommend spending more than 24 hours in Boston since it’s so full of culture and history, if that is all you have we’re here to help you make the most of it! Our 24-hour Boston itinerary is a great way to see some of the historic sights, savor some of the best food and experience some of the most beautiful scenery. If you have more than just 24 hours in Boston we would love for you to join us for a food tour so you can experience one neighborhood more intimately, but if you’re trying to cram a bunch into one day then here’s how we suggest doing it (PS – there are plenty of coffee shops around to fuel up along the way!).

Hotels: For this itinerary we recommend staying somewhere in the Back Bay neighborhood or the South End (not to be confused with South Boston aka “Southie”) – if you are staying the night that is.

Breakfast at Flour Bakery – Clarendon

Photo Credit: Flour Bakery

If you’re trying to tackle Boston in one day then you need a good, but not too lengthy, breakfast! Flour Bakery + Cafe is a beloved local chain with nine locations that started in 2000. We work with them on our Sweet & Savory South End Tour. At the helm is Joanne Chang, Flour’s co-owner and a James Beard Award-winning pastry chef. From their breakfast sandwiches to their pastries and drinks you can’t go wrong, but one thing you MUST get is a sticky bun. Flour is known for them and they go fast so best to get there as early as you can. You’ll definitely want to get it warmed up to soften up the dark, sticky caramel and toasted pecans on top.

Next…

Boston Public Garden, Beacon Hill & State House

Photo Credit: BOStoday

Photo Credit: coleong/Getty Images

Photo Credit: Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts  

We recommend taking a walk through the Boston Public Garden to take in the beautiful scenery, especially if you are visiting during a more lush or colorful season. If you have the time, take a ride on the Swan Boats! Boston Common, which is a stop on the Freedom Trail , is connected to the Public Garden but we recommend taking a left on Charles Street into the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood. From there you can continue through the cobblestone streets, enjoying the architecture and popping in and out of little shops (fair warning there are some steep hills). Finally, on your way out of Beacon Hill you can catch a glimpse or pic of the State House, another stop on the Freedom Trail.

Head to the North End for Lunch

Photo Credit: Cathay Pacific

Boston’s historic North End , which is its own Little Italy, is a great place to explore and have some lunch! The small streets are quaint and there are tons of restaurants to choose from but our most favorite restaurant in the North End and actually, all of Boston is The Daily Catch. There is not a lot of extra elbow room in this rustic establishment but one whiff of what’s coming out of the open kitchen and you will be sold. You can get some of the best pasta and seafood here, which is a great two-for-one in Boston especially if you only have one day. The North End is close to Boston’s Waterfront, where many restaurants get fresh seafood daily. We highly recommend the house-made squid-ink pasta (served right in the sauté pan) and the calamari meatballs. If you order wine, which we suggest, be prepared for it to come in a plastic cup – remember it’s rustic. Trust us, the vibe fits.

Photo Credit: The Daily Catch

Explore the North End & Stop for a Cannoli

Photo Credit: The Cultural Landscape Foundation

Photo Credit: Best Boston  

Photo Credit: Bova’s Bakery

Once you’ve fueled up, there are some other things you must do in the North End before heading out. If you don’t do this before lunch, be sure to walk by the Paul Revere House and Old North Church – both stops on the Freedom Trail and great photo ops. Then, you MUST get a cannoli! Our favorite comes from Bova’s Bakery but if you can’t ignore all the buzz about Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry then get one there. Just GET ONE, or two or three!

Walk Through Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market

Walk over to the bustling Faneuil Hall and take a peek inside Quincy Market. This area in general is often referred to as “Faneuil Hall” collectively, but technically, the collective name for everything is “Faneuil Hall Marketplace.” Faneuil Hall Marketplace is actually four great places in one location – all set around a cobblestone promenade where all sorts of street performers entertain visitors. There are also lots of shops and restaurants for you to check out. While it’s known as a historic marketplace, Faneuil Hall also provided a platform for the country’s most famous speakers such as Sam Adams and George Washington. On your way out you can also see the Old State House and grab a photo if you’d like as it’s right across the street.

*Here is a great time to pop back over to your hotel if you need to rest or refresh before dinner*

Dinner at the elephant walk in the south end.

The South End is PACKED with excellent restaurants representing a unique mix of cultures and cuisines. You really can’t go wrong but with this itinerary we think The Elephant Walk is a great place for dinner. They are also one of our South End tour partners and we love everything about them from the French-Cambodian menu to the fantastic cocktails and hospitality. Some other suggestions for dinner are Bootleg Special, Orinoco, Burro Bar, Bar Mezzana, Coppa and literally anywhere that looks good to you! PS pictured above in order is the Rouleaux, Porc Aux Piments Doux Shishito, and Chocolat Liégeois.

Post-Dinner Drinks at Yvonne’s

Photo Credit: Yvonne’s

Photo Credit: Yvonne’s  

Dark, seductive and elegant – Yvonne’s is a must if you only have one night in Boston – even if it’s just for one drink – and that drink may be set on fire if you order the right one. There are two bar areas – one in the darker, library-inspired lounge area and one in the ornate main dining room with chandeliers strung everywhere.

…or Post-Dinner Drinks at a Fenway bar

Photo Credit: Bleacher Bar

If it’s baseball season and you are a big sports person then it’s definitely worth stopping by the Fenway area, even for just a quick picture or one drink before or after dinner. If there is a game it will be bumpin’ for sure but that’s part of the fun. For one of the most classic bar experiences head to Bleacher Bar, a unique bar beneath Fenway Park’s bleachers with a view of centerfield.

We hope you have a great time visiting Boston!!

Your itinerary, in summary:

1) breakfast at flour bakery – clarenden, 2) walk through the boston public garden / beacon hill / see the state house, 3) lunch in the north end at the daily catch, 4) explore the north end / paul revere house / old north church / pickup a cannoli from bova’s bakery, 5) walk through faneuil hall / quincy market / old state house.

*maybe stop at hotel to rest/refresh*

6) Dinner at The Elephant Walk in the South End (or anywhere!)

7) after dinner drinks at yvonne’s in downtown or bleacher bar in fenway, other things you can do depending on time and your personal preference:, *history: see the bunker hill monument / uss constitution in charlestown (stops on the freedom trail), *art/culture: visit the mfa or the isabella stewart gardner museum, *shopping: newbury street / the prudential center / boston public market, *sports:  fenway park – red sox game or tour.

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Picture yourself strolling along cobblestone streets, savoring the aroma of freshly baked pastries, and standing in the very spots where American history was made. Welcome to one of America's most captivating cities – Boston! With its rich history, cultural charm, and vibrant atmosphere, spending just one day in Boston is like flipping through a book filled with tales of revolution, art, and mouthwatering seafood . . . but fear not, as we’ve done all the homework done for you to make the most of your day in this historic metropolis. Here’s everything you need to know about a day trip to Boston! 

Is Boston worth a day trip?

Boston is well worth a day trip! While a day may not be enough to explore every corner of this historic city, it's sufficient to get a taste of its unique charm, rich history, and vibrant culture. You can visit iconic landmarks like the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, and the Boston Common, as well as enjoy delicious seafood and experience the city's welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable day in a captivating destination, Boston won't disappoint. Just be sure to plan your itinerary wisely to make the most of your day in this remarkable city.

Is one day enough to see the best of Boston?

One day in Boston allows for a glimpse of its highlights, including historic sites, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine, but to truly experience the city's best, more time is recommended. Boston's rich history and diverse cultural offerings deserve further exploration, making it ideal for a longer visit to appreciate all it offers.

Boston Awaits – Let's Tour the City's Best!

What are some must-visit attractions on Boston Day Trip?

On a Boston day trip, be sure to include a boat cruise along Boston Harbor for stunning views. Explore the historical significance of Bunker Hill Monument and the Freedom Trail, and visit the USS Constitution , affectionately known as "Old Ironsides." Wander through the charming streets of Beacon Hill and other historic neighborhoods, shop and dine at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and savor fresh seafood at one of the city's renowned restaurants to complete your day in this vibrant city. Makes sense? Consider booking this guided tour that has all these attractions covered for you with a complimentary pick & drop anywhere in downtown Boston! 

How to spend a day in Boston?

To help you make the most of your limited time, here's a meticulously planned one-day in Boston itinerary. Let's dive right in!

Morning Delights: Breakfast and a Stroll

Breakfast at a local diner.

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Boston is known for its delicious breakfast options, from classic bacon and eggs to delectable pastries. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee and fuel up for your day of exploration.

Stroll Through the Boston Common

After your satisfying breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the Boston Common, the oldest city park in the United States. This tranquil oasis in the heart of the city provides a perfect escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Stroll through the lush greenery and admire the charming Swan Boats on the pond.

Dive into History at Freedom Trail 

To truly immerse yourself in Boston's history, embark on the Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile-long path takes you to 16 historically significant sites, including the Massachusetts State House, the Old North Church, and the site of the Boston Massacre. Pay your respects at the final resting place of notable figures like John Hancock and Paul Revere at the Granary Burying Ground. Step into the iconic Old North Church where lanterns once signaled Paul Revere's ride. Explore the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat, i.e., the USS Constitution Museum . End your historical exploration with a climb to Bunker Hill Monument for panoramic views of the city. 

Boston Unveiled: See the City Like Never Before

Midday Refueling: Satisfy Your Cravings

Seafood delights at quincy market.

As lunchtime approaches, head to Quincy Market for a delectable seafood feast. You can savor lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other local delicacies from the food stalls in this historic marketplace. 

A Taste of Boston's Best Clam Chowder

Don't miss the opportunity to try Boston's world-famous clam chowder. The creamy soup filled with tender clams, potatoes, and spices is a true New England classic.

Cultural Immersion: Afternoon Adventures

Discover the arts at the museum of fine arts.

Spend your afternoon exploring the captivating Museum of Fine Arts, home to an extensive collection of art from around the world. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists and immerse yourself in cultural diversity.

Stroll Along Newbury Street

Take a leisurely walk down Newbury Street, known for its high-end boutiques, art galleries, and charming brownstone buildings. It's the perfect place for some retail therapy or people-watching.

Relaxation at the Boston Public Library Courtyard

Take a moment to unwind at the Boston Public Library Courtyard, a tranquil space adorned with elegant architecture and serene gardens. It's the perfect place to escape the city's energy for a while.

Nighttime Adventures: Sunset on the Water 

Charles river esplanade.

As the sun starts to set, make your way to the Charles River Esplanade. This scenic area offers beautiful views of the Charles River and is an excellent spot for a leisurely evening walk or a relaxing picnic.

Dinner with a View

There are numerous dining options near the Charles River Esplanade in Boston. You can find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries offering a range of cuisines, from American and seafood to international flavors. Enjoy a relaxing dinner with a beautiful view of the river and the city's skyline, making it a memorable dining experience during your visit to this picturesque area.

Are there any guided tours available for the Boston day trip?

There are numerous guided tours available for a Boston day trip, catering to a wide range of interests. Whether you're into history, food, and culture, or simply want to explore the city's iconic landmarks, you'll find a tour that suits your preferences.

Discover Boston's Magic: Tours That Truly Enchant Book Now!

What to do in Boston for a day for adults?

For adults looking to make the most of a day in Boston, there's a rich tapestry of activities to explore. Begin your day with a historical journey along the Freedom Trail, immersing yourself in the pivotal moments of the American Revolution. Continue with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, where you can appreciate a diverse collection of art from various cultures. Satisfy your palate with a delightful Italian lunch in the North End, followed by a guided tour of Fenway Park, perfect for sports enthusiasts. 

Spend your afternoon shopping on Newbury Street, a boutique haven, before winding down with a relaxing boat cruise on Boston Harbor. Cap off your day with a delightful dinner in the Seaport District and an exciting evening in the city's vibrant nightlife scene. Boston's history, culture, and culinary offerings ensure a day filled with exploration and enjoyment for adults.

Is Boston worth visiting in the winter?

Boston is undeniably worth visiting in the winter. While the city can be chilly during this season, it offers a unique and enchanting experience for travelers. Boston's historical landmarks, like the Freedom Trail and Paul Revere House, take on a different allure when dusted with snow, offering a fresh perspective on the city's rich history. The city's world-class museums provide indoor warmth and the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in art and culture on colder days. The cozy atmosphere of Boston's cafes, historic pubs, and charming neighborhoods make it an inviting place to warm up with a hot drink or savor a bowl of clam chowder. 

Additionally, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as ice skating on the Boston Common's Frog Pond or even take short trips to nearby New England mountains for skiing. Boston's holiday events, festive decorations, and markets add to the city's allure during the winter season, making it a wonderful destination. With fewer crowds than in the bustling summer months, a winter visit to Boston offers a more intimate and peaceful exploration of the city, and the scenic beauty of parks and the waterfront covered in snow is truly a sight to behold. Boston's winter charm, cultural attractions, and seasonal events make it a destination well worth experiencing during the colder months.

Boston After Sunset: Uncover Nighttime Treasures Book Now!

How to spend one day in Boston in Winter?

Morning adventures, breakfast at a cozy café.

Start your day with a warm and hearty breakfast at a cozy café. Sip on freshly brewed coffee, indulge in pastries, and savor a delicious hot meal to prepare yourself for the day ahead.

Snowy Walk in the Boston Common

After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the snow-covered Boston Common. The park transforms into a winter wonderland, and the picturesque scenery is perfect for taking winter photos.

Exploring Boston's Winter Charm

Ice skating at frog pond.

Embrace the winter spirit by ice skating at the Frog Pond in Boston Common. This popular ice skating rink is open during the winter months and offers rentals for those who don't have their skates.

Visit to a Winter Market

Explore a winter market where you can shop for holiday gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Boston hosts several winter markets that are worth a visit.

A Culinary Journey

Warming up with hot chocolate.

Winter is the ideal time to savor a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate. Many cafés and bakeries in Boston offer this delightful treat.

Trying Seasonal Comfort Food

Indulge in some of Boston's seasonal comfort food. Warm your taste buds with dishes like clam chowder, hearty soups, and traditional New England fare.

Afternoon Activities

Indoor museums and galleries.

In the afternoon, explore Boston's indoor cultural offerings. Museums and galleries in the city provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in art, history, and culture.

A Visit to the New England Aquarium

Head to the New England Aquarium for a unique underwater experience. The aquarium features fascinating marine life and provides a warm and educational escape from the winter chill.

Cozy Evening Entertainment

Theater show or a concert.

As evening approaches, consider attending a theater show or a concert in one of Boston's renowned venues. It's an excellent way to enjoy the city's cultural scene while staying warm.

Dining at a Waterside Restaurant

For dinner, choose a waterside restaurant to enjoy a meal with a view. Many restaurants along the waterfront offer scenic views of Boston's winter landscape.

A Night in Boston's Winter Wonderland

Holiday lights at boston common.

End your day by taking a stroll through Boston Common to witness the holiday lights. The park is adorned with festive decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that's perfect for a winter evening.

Boston Nightscape: Where History Meets Nightlife Book Tour Now!

Let’s Wrap it Up! 

Spending one day in Boston would surely be a delightful experience! From the rich history and culture to the mouthwatering cuisine, this city offers a diverse range of activities to make your day memorable. Whether you're wandering through the charming streets, exploring historical landmarks, or savoring delectable dishes, Boston has something for everyone. To truly make the most of your day and uncover the hidden gems of this wonderful city, consider booking a guided tour . Experienced guides can provide you with insights, stories, and local knowledge that will enhance your Boston adventure. Book a tour today and create your lasting memories in this captivating city!

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How to Spend One Perfect Day in Boston, MA (Itinerary + Tips!)

Boston is one of our absolute favorite cities in the USA, and luckily, even one day in Boston, MA is enough to get an overview of what makes the city so special!

We once spent a delightful summer living in Boston, and return visits have continued to leave us increasingly enchanted with the city.

With its gorgeous architecture, deep ties to American history, and impressive walkability, Boston is incredibly fun to explore, whether you have a mere 24 hours in Boston or months to uncover Beantown’s best attractions.

We designed this one day Boston itinerary to help you discover as many of the city’s highlights as possible in a single day–all of which are found along a walkable route!

The famous Freedom Trail, the charming North End (also known as Boston’s Little Italy), stately Beacon Hill, and the bustling Market District are all touched on here, and our hope is that you say goodbye to Boston already excited to plan your next visit.

Here’s how to see the best of Boston in a day!

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The Perfect One Day in Boston Itinerary

What about the freedom trail, where to stay in boston, ma, more than 24 hours in boston, getting around during one day in boston, quick tips for seeing boston in a day, read more about visiting boston (and new england), your one day boston itinerary map.

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Start your morning in the Boston Public Garden.

The Boston Public Garden is one of our favorite places in the city and the perfect place to kick off your day in Boston.

The garden is quiet and beautiful, and it’s a great place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy a bit of peace in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.

With only 24 hours in Boston (or less, if you’re planning a day trip to Boston) you don’t need to spend long here, but it’s worth stopping by and makes a convenient starting point.

Be sure to check out the Make Way for Ducklings Statue, put in place for the famous children’s book that features Boston, while you’re there! If you’d like to enjoy views of the Public Garden from the water, the swan paddle boats in the garden’s pond are famously inexpensive at $3.00/ride.

Stroll through the Boston Common and enjoy views of the Massachusetts State House.

Located right next door to the Public Garden, the Boston Common is the heart and soul of the city.

Established in 1634, it’s the oldest public park in the USA–though the surroundings are quite a bit different than they were back in the 17th century!

Today, the Common is extremely centrally located, and within a few minutes walk from here you can be in Beacon Hill, in Back Bay, at the Massachusetts State House, in the Theater District, shopping at Downtown Crossing (where you’ll find all the standard chain stores), or exploring a piece of American history (which, of course, the Boston Common itself also is).

The park is gorgeous to walk through–be sure to take in plenty of views of the gold-domed Massachusetts State House while you’re there!

Meander through Beacon Hill, one of the prettiest places to visit in Boston.

Located directly north of the Boston Common (more or less behind the state house), Beacon Hill is widely considered one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Boston and is my personal favorite to explore.

This is where you’ll find the Boston that you see on postcards: redbrick mansions, black shutters, a cobblestone path or two, tree-lined streets.

We recommend walking from Boston Common up to Louisburg Square, which boasts some of the most prestigious addresses in Boston (former Secretary of State John Kerry lives here).

From there, take a quick stroll to Acorn Street to take advantage of one of Boston’s most photogenic spots.

Just be sure to be cognizant of the residents as you snap photos!

Beacon Hill is a very residential neighborhood, and while photos and admirers are generally welcome, blocking doorways and climbing stoops is not.

Stop by Park Street Church and the Granary Hill Burying Ground.

After enjoying a bit of time in Beacon Hill, head back down to Boston Common and pay a visit to the Park Street Church and Granary Burying Ground, which are located right next door to the Common.

While you can see the bulk of the cemetery from the street, it’s a shady, peaceful spot, and worth a quick peek inside (only a quick one, though: this one day Boston itinerary features a somewhat outsized number of burying grounds).

As you step inside, you’ll notice a large monument with a very familiar name in Granary Burying Ground!

Benjamin Franklin’s parents are buried here, and a monument to the family is erected toward the center of the cemetery.

Visit King’s Chapel and Burying Ground.

The King’s Chapel is my favorite church in Boston to go inside–not because it is ornate, but because it is so unusual among US churches.

Built originally as an Anglican Church in the 18th century, the church has enclosed “boxes” instead of rows of pews.

Originally, prominent families who were members of the church would have a box of their own that they would sit in each Sunday.

The King’s Chapel still has an active congregation–but these days, instead of Anglicans, Unitarians call the chapel home.

Sample the original Boston Creme Pie at the Omni Parker House.

Think you need to make a reservation and sit down to a meal to eat the original Boston Creme Pie?

You definitely don’t!

The Omni Parker House has a small shop on the first floor selling the delicious cakes, and stopping to pick one up is a great way to sample the flavor without eating up too much of your one day in Boston (pun intended).

If you want to also try the original Parker House rolls (which are, in fact, delicious), then consider following in the footsteps of Ulysses S. Grant, John F. Kennedy, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and many more by planning a meal ( or even an overnight stay ) at the Omni Parker House as well.

Stop to admire the Old Corner Bookstore.

The former home of Anne Hutchinson has acted as a bookstore, an apothecary, a private home, a Boston Globe souvenir shop, a diamond store, and now a Chipotle: talk about evolution!

The building is still worth a nod as you go by, though (and is officially part of the Freedom Trail, despite its concurrent status as a place to grab a burrito).

The Old Corner Bookstore also happens to be set right across from the Irish Famine Memorial–a striking statue worth taking a look at during your day visiting Boston.

Pay a visit to the Old State House and the site of the Boston Massacre.

As the oldest surviving public building in Boston, the Old State House has seen more than its fair share of American history!

This building was once the seat of the colonial government, then became the seat of the Massachusetts state government, and eventually Boston City Hall.

And, of course, it was the site of an important moment in the American Revolution: the Boston Massacre, which is commemorated with a plaque in the exact location of the altercation.

The Old State House has been a museum since the 19th century, after more than 100 years in public service and a brief stint as a commercial building.

As you wander your way through Boston on your way to the Old State House, be sure to note the Old South Meeting House along the way!

Head to the Boston Market District to browse (and snack).

The Market District is easily one of the most iconic places to visit in Boston, and a must-see when sampling Boston in a day!

Made up of several markets that are found in very close proximity to each other, there have been markets operating in this area since at least 1743.

Starting with the most famous (though not necessarily the best place to shop), keep an eye out for:

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Made up of closely located Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market, this is the heart of Boston’s historic market district.

It’s also one of the most touristy places in the USA, comparably with places like Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco or Navy Pier in Chicago .

It’s definitely worth stopping by this historic spot during your day in Boston, but we wouldn’t recommend spending long here (and based on the usual levels of crowds, you probably won’t want to).

Boston Public Market

Looking to purchase some New England specialties, whether to devour immediately or to take home as souvenirs?

Boston Public Market is the perfect spot for that: featuring exclusively New England-based products and companies, you can pick up anything from produce to donuts to crafts here.

This is one of my favorite spots in Boston–and not just because of how good the ice cream is!

If you’re lucky enough to have your 24 hours in Boston overlap with a Friday or Saturday, be sure to swing by Haymarket (located right in front of the Boston Public Market) to check out a fabulous farmer’s market!

Pause at the New England Holocaust Memorial.

Right in between the Boston Public Market/Haymarket area and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace sits the sobering New England Holocaust Memorial.

It takes very little time to walk through–no line, no entrance fee–but is absolutely worth taking a moment to slow down and appreciate.

Make your way into the North End for some sightseeing.

Boston’s North End (also known as “Little Italy”, though you won’t catch a local calling it that) is the oldest neighborhood in Boston and a fascinating sort of place.

Once a neighborhood popular with Italian immigrants, today it is more popular with tourists thanks to its beautiful architecture, many historic sights, dozens of restaurants, and famous pastry shops.

Here are a few things to be sure to check out when visiting the North End!

Paul Revere House

The oldest remaining building in downtown Boston once belonged to none other than Paul Revere!

Whether you head inside for a tour as part of your one day Boston itinerary, or simply admire the facade as you stroll by, be sure to note this piece of American history sitting in the North End.

Old North Church

And speaking of Paul Revere…

The whole “one if by land, two if by sea” story?

That lantern was said to have been hung here, at the Old North Church (which also happens to be the oldest church in Boston that is still standing today).

You’ll find a statue of Paul Revere on his horse nearby as well.

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground + The Spite House

Boston’s second-oldest cemetery holds more than 1200 marked graves that include plenty of notable burials from the colonial era… but that’s not the only reason to visit.

Right across the street from Copp’s Hill Burying Ground sits the Spite House (also known as the Skinny House), which is home to one of my favorite Boston stories.

As the story goes, two brothers inherited land from their father.

While one was away serving in the American Civil War, the other brother built a large home, taking over part of the soldier’s inheritance.

When the soldier returned home, he built the “Spite House”–incredibly skinny, and yet incredibly effective at blocking his brother’s view.

The legitimacy of the story is somewhat questionable, but it’s a classic Boston tale.

Enjoy an Italian-American dinner in the North End.

While the North End is indisputably touristy today, it still serves up incredible Italian-American food… if you know where to look.

Like many iconic neighborhoods around the world, you’ll find a mix of mediocre-to-terrible tourist traps and delicious restaurants here, so it’s imperative to check reviews before sitting down!

We have loved our experiences at both Ristorante Euno and Tresca (pictured below: everything was delicious, but their house special of chicken parm made with vodka sauce was a standout!).

Not in the mood for Italian-American food?

I can’t say I understand, but you do have options!

The Bell in Hand Tavern (the burger is one of my favorites) and the Union Oyster House are both Boston classics that you can find nearby, and Neptune Oyster is another excellent option (I’m not an oyster fan and found plenty of tasty options when visiting).

More into ambiance than anything and not ready to hang up your sightseeing hat?

A scenic dinner cruise on the Boston Harbor might be right for you!

Book your dinner cruise on the Boston Harbor today!

… and some classic pastries for dessert!

If you’ve heard one thing about eating dessert (and specifically cannoli) in the North End, it’s probably about how delicious Mike’s Pastry is.

If you’ve heard two things, it’s probably that Modern Pastry is better and more “unknown”.

Here’s what we can tell you firsthand: Modern Pastry is tasty (though it’s no longer unknown and getting more popular every day), and the line at Mike’s Pastry is always too long for us to bother with (though we’ve heard from others it dies down sometimes–if you visit in the winter, you might get lucky!).

Looking for something slightly further off the beaten path?

We found the beautiful Caffé Vittoria thanks to my stepmom (a Boston local of 30 years) and it’s now our go-to pastry spot in the North End, with great prices, a beautiful interior, and delicious desserts.

If you know of one attraction in Boston, it’s probably the Freedom Trail.

This famous 2.5-mile sightseeing trail covers 16 historical sights related to American history in Boston and it is easily (and deservedly!) one of the most popular things to do in the city.

So don’t worry–it’s definitely on the list!

In fact, the vast majority of the  16 sights on the Freedom Trail  are covered as part of this one day Boston itinerary, including the Boston Common, Park Street Church, King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall, every historical sight I discuss in the North End, and more.

By following this Boston itinerary, you’ll spend quite a bit of time walking the Freedom Trail, and you’ll have tons of opportunities to check out the brick markings that denote where it leads!

Rather than simply list something so vague and malleable as part of the itinerary, though, we wanted to be sure to give specific suggestions.

After all, the trail can be seen in any order and doesn’t need to be seen all at once!

With only 24 hours in Boston, you likely won’t be able to tour the interior of each building, but you’ll see them from the outside and can pick and choose which ones to enter.

With only 24 hours in Boston, we recommend staying somewhere close to a Boston T (metro) stop that is near the center of the action.

The North End is a tempting option, but it is fairly difficult to get in and out of.

Back Bay or the Historic Downtown area along the Freedom Trail are both ideal places to stay.

The Theatre District (near Downtown Crossing and Chinatown) is another solid option with a great central location.

If budget is an issue, you may need to go a bit further out. That’s not a problem–just make sure you’re within walking distance of a T stop!

For budget travelers not willing to sacrifice on location, the HI Boston Hostel is a great option.

Mid-range travelers will love the location (and breakfast) at the Boston Park Plaza .

Want access to a kitchenette in your room? Copley House features some studios and apartments!

For travelers looking to splurge, the Boston Omni Parker House Hotel has it all: history, a prime location on the Freedom Trail, plenty of ambiance, and of course, the original Parker House rolls and Boston cream pie served right on-site.

Check rates & book your stay in Boston today!

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 24 hours in Boston, it’s safe to say that you absolutely will not run out of things to do!

With a full weekend in Boston or more, the first things we’d recommend adding on would be plenty of time exploring the neighborhood of Back Bay, getting out on the water with a whale-watching cruise or harbor cruise , and visiting at least one museum.

Boston is chock full of world-class museums, but you can’t go wrong with the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (the Venetian-style building alone is worth a visit, and the museum is famously the victim of a heist ), the Museum of Science, or the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum (especially if you’re visiting Boston with kids, but it’s fun for all ages).

Other fun things to do in Boston include visiting Fenway (or even attending a Red Sox game), saying hello to the penguins at the New England Aquarium, or digging into some of Boston’s hidden gems and visiting quirky attractions like the Mapparium (one of the most memorable maps we’ve ever laid eyes on!).

If you’d like to complete the Freedom Trail, the USS Constitution, and the Bunker Hill Memorial are both a bit further from the city center than the attractions covered in this one day Boston itinerary, but they’re well worth a visit!

And, while it doesn’t make sense with only 24 hours in Boston, if you are staying longer and checking out some of the above attractions, be sure to price out a Boston Go Card to see if it can save you money on your trip!

Here’s our full guide to 55 cool things to do in Boston.

Thanks in large part to the fact that Boston’s historic core was built long before horseless carriages took over the roadways, the best things to do with a day in Boston are found surprisingly close together!

This entire one day in Boston itinerary is found along a walkable route that takes about an hour in total to cover, though that depends highly on how much you meander in places like the Boston Common and Beacon Hill (and meandering is truly one of the best parts of visiting Boston).

Walking doesn’t appeal?

If so, the wildly popular Boston Duck Tour or a Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour might be right for you.

If you want to trim just some walking, or need an efficient way to get back to your hotel at the end of the night, Boston’s subway system (the T) has several stops near this route that you can take advantage of.

If you’re driving into the city for the day, there’s a very convenient parking garage right under the Boston Common that will deliver you more or less right to the starting point of this Boston itinerary.

Alternatively, you could park in a garage outside the city center and take one of the commuter rails into the city (less convenient, but generally less expensive and allows you to avoid driving into the city center).

Pick and choose your indoor attractions (weather permitting).

This itinerary for Boston mentions several buildings-turned-small-museums that don’t take long to step inside individually, but add up to eat up a decent chunk of your day (and in the case of some, your wallet).

For places like the King’s Chapel, Old South Meeting House, Paul Revere’s House, etc., we’re assuming that you’ll see each from the outside as you walk the Freedom Trail, and pick and choose which to enter based on your personal sightseeing style.

And, you may be more inclined to spend more time inside museums on a winter day than a summer one!

Tickets generally run between $5 and $15 per adult for each attraction.

Some Freedom Trail attractions, like Faneuil Hall , the Boston Common, and the burying grounds, are free to visit.

Don’t want to walk? Consider a Duck Tour.

Cheesy? Yes.

Entertaining? Absolutely.

Boston’s Duck Tours are famous for the unmistakable truck-slash-boat contraptions that they cart tourists around in by both land and sea, and they’re very popular with visitors of all ages.

Corniness aside, if you’re looking for an excellent way to get an overview of Boston’s most famous sights and history without too much walking, a Duck Tour might be the right choice for you!

The tours do sell out, especially in the summer, so be sure to book in advance if you want to make a Duck Tour part of your 24 hour Boston itinerary!

Book your duck tour in Boston today!

… but wandering is at least half the fun.

I truly can’t overstate this enough: Boston is one of the absolute best cities in the US to explore on foot (personally, I’d say Savannah is the other city closest to its level, with places like New York , Charleston , and New Orleans also ranking extremely close).

If you arrive in Boston with dry weather and no mobility issues, wear your most comfortable shoes and spend the day hitting the pavement!

You’ll see and experience much more on foot in Boston than you would any other way, and hopefully have a lot of fun as you do.

Keep the season in mind.

Boston is an extremely seasonal destination, with sightseeing crowds peaking in the summer and fall (when the fall foliage is at its best in New England, the crowds are plentiful in Boston).

… but Boston can be enjoyed year-round.

Summer and fall may be most popular, but there are benefits to visiting Boston year-round… as long as you’re willing to bundle up!

Winter, while cold and dark, is a much less crowded time to spend a day in Boston (and it’s much easier on the wallet).

Spring brings temperamental weather, but increasingly longer days and the fun of watching the city wake up.

With a big enough coat and thick enough boots, we’d be happy to visit Boston year-round.

Make your dinner reservations in advance.

This itinerary for Boston in a day suggests having dinner in Boston’s famous North End… and while the experience is absolutely worth it, you don’t want to show up without a reservation!

The neighborhood’s restaurant scene is incredibly popular, and without planning ahead, you may end up finding yourself without a table–or worse, at a tourist trap restaurant rather than a delicious one.

Same-day or next-day reservations are generally all that’s needed on weekdays and/or if you’re willing to eat on the early or late side, but ideally, it’s best to plan at least a couple of days in advance (or longer if you’re heading out on a summer Saturday night and are hoping to nab a table at a trendy new place).

Planning a trip to Boston soon, and want to keep reading?

You can browse all of our 100+ USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• 55 Best Things to Do in Boston (+ Travel Tips!)
• 21 Best Places to Visit in New England
• 17 Fun Weekend Getaways from Boston
• 15 Amazing Things to Do in Acadia National Park
• 15 Wicked Fun Quotes About Boston

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Best Way to Spend One Day in Boston: 24 Hours Boston Itinerary

Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links – which means, at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through a link.

Brace yourself for an action-packed 24-hours in Boston ! It is one of the most historic and culturally rich cities in the United States. There are so many things to see and do in Boston, your head is probably spinning just trying to figure out where to start planning your trip!

To be honest, one day in Boston simply isn’t enough to scratch the surface of everything Boston has to offer. However, if that’s all the time you have to spend in this bustling city, then this 1 day in Boston itinerary is perfect for you!

Get ready for an exciting adventure as we hop on a duck tour, take in the mesmerizing cityscape, and feast on delicious Boston specialties!

This one day Boston itinerary will take you to the best of Boston in 24 hours .  

Table of Contents

Arriving in Boston

If you’re flying into Boston, you’ll most likely be arriving at the Boston Logan International Airport . This airport is located only 3 miles to the east of the city. The close distance makes it super convenient to get to downtown Boston.

You have several options of transportation.

You can either ride the Blue-line subway (known as the T) or hop into a taxi (~$25 to $30). Another option is to take the free silver-line bus to South Station in downtown Boston.

Getting Around Boston

Since you’re only spending one day in Boston, you’re on limited time. You want to get around Boston efficiently.

Well, I got some good news for you!

Downtown Boston is compact and totally walkable. Most of the tourist attractions are within walking distances of each other. I honestly think it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the historic charm of Boston.

When you’re tired of walking, here are the other ways to get around Boston:

Boston’s public transportation system makes getting around easy and efficient. You can easily take the subway (often referred to as the T) to tour the multiple neighborhoods in Boston.

Did you know Boston has the oldest subway system in the US?

Tapping a CharlieCard (T’s rechargeable fare card) is how you pay the fares for the rides. However, since you’re only in Boston for a day, all you need is a CharlieTicket. A one day unlimited ride pass is only $12. You can grab these at any of the fare vending machines inside the subway stations. 

Biking in Boston

Boston is renowned for being one of the top cities for cyclists. You can easily rent a bike through the Blue Bikes’s bike-share program. There are over 200 rental stations all over the city! Just download the app or visit any bicycle kiosks.

Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

Hop on a trolley tour for an effortless way to explore Boston. You can just sit back and relax as you listen to a narrated tour of the city, then hop off at any stop to continue exploring on your own!

These tours are perfect for first-time visitors, or anyone who wants to see as much of the city as possible in a short time. 

Driving in Boston

I do not recommend driving within Boston. With all the narrow one-way streets and heavy traffic, driving can be quite a headache.

You’ll also spend the majority of your time trying to find parking in Boston. Which is almost impossible to find, especially if you’re visiting Boston during peak season. 

Map of Boston in One Day

Follow the route to see the best of Boston in 24 hours! This Boston itinerary includes activities on both land and water!

One  Day in Boston Itinerary

Start the morning in this historic city by visiting the Freedom Trail. This 2.5 mile trail showcases some of the most important historical sites in Boston.

While most visitors start at the Boston Common and make their way to the Bunker Hill Monument. For this one-day itinerary, we’ll be doing something different. 

We’ll be starting the day at the Bunker Hill Monument and USS Constitution (the last 2 stops on the Freedom Trail). From there, we make multiple stops at various popular neighborhoods in Boston until we end the day in Back Bay.

Morning: USS Constitution (Old Ironsides)

After breakfast, head to the location of USS Constitution. It is inside the Boston National Historical Park , as part of the Charlestown Navy Yard .

Built in 1797, the USS Constitution (aka Old Ironsides) is the world’s oldest commissioned warship still afloat today. Every year during July 4, the ship sails the Boston Harbor to maintain the commission status. 

There are two parts to this stop: the museum and the ship. Expect to spend 1-2 hours. 

Visit the museum while you wait for the ship to open for visitors at 10am. With a wide variety of artifacts and exhibits, the  USS Constitution Museum will give you a much better understanding of the ship and its place in history.

After a quick visit to the museum, it’s time to board the ship. 

Once you’re onboard, explore the ship on a self-guided tour. Active duty sailors dressed in period uniforms will pose as crew and answer any of your questions.

Museum daily 9am-6pm

Ship Tues-Sun 10am-6pm

In order to board the USS Constitution , all adults need to first show a photo ID (driver’s license or passport) and go through a security screening.

Bunker Hill Monument

After you finish exploring the ship, make your way up the stairs to the top of the Bunker Hill Monument for a breathtaking view of the city. 

This 220ft obelisk monument stands as a tribute to the Battle of Bunker Hill, a pivotal moment in the American Revolutionary War. Despite their defeat, this battle instilled a newfound sense of belief in the patriots that victory was attainable.

Because the Bunker Hill Monument is a popular spot for school trips, you’ll need a climbing pass to gain access during the months of April to June. You can grab a climbing pass (first-come first-serve) from the Bunker Hill Museum across the street from the monument.  

Go on a Duck Tour (Aquarium Departure Point)

Take a bus or ferry over to New England Aquarium to join a Duck Boat Tour. This is one of the best things to do in Boston. If you’re only spending a day in Boston, make it your highlight!

Duck boats (DUKW) are boat-truck hybrids that can go on both land and water. How cool is that! These amphibious vehicles were also used during WWII to transport troops and supplies.

Now’s the chance to experience a ride on one of these amphibious vehicles yourself! The Boston Duck Tours offers you the chance to see the city of Boston from multiple perspectives.

The guided tour will last for 80 minutes and will take you to some of the most important historical sites and landmarks in the city. You also get to enjoy the stunning Boston skylines during the 20 minute cruise down the Charles River. It’s truly Boston in a day!

Here’s a map of the route ! You can book a Duck Tour with either Viator or GetYourGuide.

There are three departure locations for the Duck Boat Tour: New England Aquarium, Prudential Center (Back Bay), and the Museum of Science. The tour departs every 30 minutes from 9am to 6:30pm.

For this Boston itinerary, we’ll choose the New England Aquarium as our departure point. This way, we can have lunch right after the tour.

Freedom Trail By Foot (Alternative Route to Duck Tour)

Since the Boston duck tour is only available during the warmer seasons, I’ve included an alternative route. Taking the duck tour? Click here to jump to the rest of the itinerary.

Take the bus or the T to North End (aka Little Italy). You’ll find the neighborhood jam-packed with Italian delights. Everything from bakeries, cafes, delis, restaurants, and wine shops.

Explore the rest of the morning by visiting the Freedom Trail stops that pique your curiosity. Here are some suggested stops to consider before grabbing lunch:

• Copp’s Hill Burying Ground is the second oldest cemetery in Boston, dating all the way back to 1660. It’s said to be the resting place for over 10,000 people!
• Built in 1723, the Old North Church is the oldest church in Boston. This historic church marks the beginning of Paul Revere’s famous Midnight Ride, where he rode to alert the patriots of the British army’s approach. For a tour of the church, you can check out their schedule online .
• Bring home some souvenirs from its gift shop! You can find reproductions of Paul Revere’s silver works, toys from the colonial era, and history books on the Revolutionary War.

If you’re craving for a little snack, check out Mike’s Pastry on Hanover Street (one street over from the Paul Revere House).

• Faneuil Hall Marketplace dates back to 1742 and served as a meeting hall for debates that led to the Revolutionary War.
• The Old State House , built in 1713, is the oldest public building in Boston. The building now serves as a museum and is open for tours. Visitors can tour the historic period rooms and view exhibits of artifacts from the Revolution period.
• Along the Freedom Trail, outside the Old State House, you’ll see a pavement marker that marks the Boston Massacre Site . A memorial of the five colonists who were killed by British soldiers when protesting the British tax policies.

• The Old South Meeting House is a National Historic Landmark in Boston and the start of the Boston Tea Party. It was built in 1729 and is the largest colonial building in Boston.
• The Granary Burying Ground  is the resting place of three signers of the Declaration of Independence: Samuel Adams, John Hancok, and Robert Treat Paine. You’ll also be able to find the graves of Paul Revere and the five Boston Massacre victims.

Lunch: Quincy Market

The Quincy Market is a National Historic Landmark located directly behind the Faneuil Hall Marketplace . It’s a super popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch on our itinerary.

With a huge variety of food choices, prepare yourself for a culinary adventure! It’s honestly one of Boston’s best places to visit.

Two must haves: the Clam Chowder and the Lobster Roll! Be sure to check out Boston Chowda for some amazing clam chowder! It’s not a perfect day in Boston if you’re missing out on the food!

Waterfront & Long Wharf

After lunch, digest your food by strolling along the Waterfront and the Long Wharf, the longest wharf in the world.

The Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park is a great place to relax and people watch. The park is a popular field trip destination, as well as a popular picnic spot during the summer months. There’s also a rose garden in the park.

Our next stop on the Boston travel itinerary is Chinatown!

Ride the T (subway) at the Boston Public Market to Chinatown. If you have time, take a slight detour to experience the only year-round indoor market that exclusively showcases goods from local vendors.

A quick five minute subway ride, you’re now in Chinatown!

Fun fact: Boston’s Chinatown is the third largest Chinatown in the United States!

While it’s called Chinatown, you’re not limited to just Chinese food. It’s the best spot in Boston if you’re craving Asian food. You’ll find a variety, including dim sum, Vietnamese food, Thai food, etc. Grab a bubble tea while you’re at it!

If you didn’t take the duck boat tour in the morning, then take this time to walk around Boston Common and the Boston Public Park.

Boston Common

It’s the oldest public park in the United State, as well as the starting point of the Freedom Trail for many visitors. Not surprising to say it’s a popular hangout spot for both locals and visitors. During the summer, you’ll find free Shakespeare shows here in the evening.

Boston Public Garden

This is the first public botanical garden in the US. One of the most captivating things to see in Boston during the spring will be the blooming of the 35,000 tulips.

For a fun and cheap activity, check out the swan boats in the Boston Public Garden. For a couple of dollars, you can leisurely paddle through the lagoon during April-August.

While walking in the garden, you may stumble upon the renowned Make Way for Duckling Statues !

It gained fame from Robert McCloskey’s cherished children’s book, now recognized as the official Children’s book of Massachusetts!  The statues is also the meeting point for the free walking tour of the Boston Public Garden that runs from June to Sept.  

Evening in Back Bay 

End the day in Boston at one of the city’s best shopping and entertainment neighborhoods.

Make a quick stop at Copley Square to look at the three impressive surrounding buildings: Trinity Church, Boston Public Library, and 200 Clarendon Street.  

Trinity Church is considered one of the ten finest architecture in the US. Free tours are offered throughout the week. If you come on a Friday you can even enjoy a free organ recital!

What makes the Boston Public Library stand out is the fact that it’s the first public library in the USA where patrons are allowed to borrow books and take them home. The library also offers free guided art and architecture tours from the entrance hall throughout the week.

And lastly, the 200 Clarendon Street , formerly known as the John Hancock Tower, is the tallest building in New England at over 60 stories tall.

Once you’re done checking these buildings, enjoy dinner at one of the countless restaurants in Back Bay. Make your way to Newbury Street if you prefer to indulge in some fine dining and upscale shopping. 

Let loose and spend the rest of the evening on a shopping spree, browsing through the multiple shops that stay open late.

Still not tired yet? Make the most out of your 24 hours in Boston by going on a ghost tour !

A Little More Than A Day in Boston

If you have two days in Boston, here are few more activities and tours you can do with the extra time!

Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the most popular day trips from Boston. If you have more than one day in Boston, definitely check this experience!

• Book with Viator  
• Book with GetYourGuide

New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium attracts crowds with its 70+  exhibits of aquatic animals around the world. Since it’s one of the top things to do in Boston, it is recommended to avoid going during the midday when it’s at its busiest.

• Book with Viator

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Including the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum in your Boston itinerary is an absolute must if you’re seeking to learn the history of Boston in an immersive way. This one-of-a-kind museum provides a unique experience to relive the events of the Boston Tea Party through re-enactments. Participate in throwing tea overboard, just as the colonists did over two centuries ago!

You can also visit Abigail’s Tea Room to sample 5 historic teas that were thrown overboard. Check out the South Boston Waterfront if you have more time!

• Book with GetYourGuide 
• North End Small Group Food Tour  

Save Money on Attractions

If you’re planning on visiting multiple paid attractions during your one day in Boston, check out CityPASS Boston or Go City Boston Pass . It’s one of the best ways to save on the attractions in Boston. These passes give priority access so you don’t have to waste time waiting on line.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Boston

If you want to experience the bustling energy and vibrant atmosphere of this historical city at its peak, then summer time is the best time to visit Boston . With great weather and countless summer activities, such as outdoor concerts and festivals, there’s never a dull moment in Boston during the summer months.

While in the fall, Boston offers pleasant weather with colorful foliage, making it perfect for outdoor activities like strolling through the historic streets or enjoying a picnic in one of its many parks.

As a result, peak season for Boston last from July to October. You’ll find yourself surrounded by large crowds and paying higher prices for accommodations.

For a more tranquil experience in Boston with fewer crowds , plan your visit between January and April. However, be prepared for the chilly winter weather with temperatures above freezing point. Snow is a common sight during this time, but on the bright side, you can take advantage of amazing hotel deals during the off-peak season while exploring Boston.

Where to Stay in Boston 

To make the most out of your time in Boston, find accommodation near downtown Boston. It’s one of the best areas to stay in since it’s the heart of Boston where you’ll have easy access to all the major attractions.

You’ve only got a day in Boston after all, best not to spend it in transit! 

Here are some of the best places to stay in Boston during your visit:

• HI Boston Hostel

Hotels in Boston 

• InterContinental Boston
• citizenM Boston
• Boston Park Plaza
• The Godfrey Hotel Boston

Final Thoughts

Boston is undeniably a city that offers something for everyone, whether its rich history, the delicious food, or simply its charming streets. 

There are so many amazing things to see and do that you can easily spend  24 hours in Boston .

So pack your bags and start planning your visit to this incredible city – you won’t want to miss out on all the excitement that awaits you!

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How To Spend One Day in Boston (Itinerary & Where to Go)

Only have 24 hours in Boston? The historic city is home to some of the best fresh seafood, prestigious universities, and incredible sports teams.

With so much to see and do, this one day itinerary to Boston is a local’s guide to maximize your time here! This is a fairly detailed itinerary, so feel free to adjust things to your own pace. 

Overview of One Day in Boston Itinerary

• Breakfast at Tatte Bakery

Beacon Hill & Acorn Street

• Freedom Trail 
• Faneuil Hall 
• Lunch in Boston’s North End/Little Italy
• Boston Common & Boston Public Garden 

Copley Square

• Newbury Street 

Seafood Dinner at Atlantic Fish Co.

• Drinks at a Speakeasy

Breakfast at Tatte Bakery & Cafe

Start your day off at one of Boston’s best local cafe chains, Tatte Bakery. They serve coffee, pastries, and comforting breakfast foods. 

My go-to Tatte dishes are their shakshuka and croque monsieur. The shakshuka is a simple tomato dish with poached eggs, feta, and challah bread on the side for dipping.

Tatte’s croque monsieur is essentially a French croissant sandwich that’s filled with cheese and ham. They generously top the croissant with mornay sauce.

The cafe itself is beautifully decorated with marble tables and white hues. The ambiance is very casual and bustling. It’s counter-service only, and there’s almost always a line. 

Once you’ve fueled up for the day, explore the Beacon Hill neighborhood. The charming residential area is characterized by its red-brick buildings and gaslit street lamps. On Charles Street, you’ll find a mix of boutiques, eateries, and home accessory shops. 

While in the neighborhood, make sure to check out Acorn Street! The narrow cobblestone alleyway is the most photographed street in the United States.

Walk the Freedom Trail

No day trip to Boston is complete without walking the historic Freedom Trail. It’s a 2.5 mile long path that stops by 16 historical sites. It starts at the Boston Common and extends all the way to the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown.

Sites along the trail include burial grounds, old meeting houses, and monuments. The trail is completely free to walk and is marked by a red brick line along the sidewalk. You can also take a guided group Freedom Trail tour to learn more about the history behind each stop.

And if you’re on a budget, you’ll definitely love this place! It’s one of the free things to do in Boston .

Faneuil Hall

As you walk along the Freedom Trail, make sure to visit Boston’s Faneuil Hall. It’s an outdoor shopping mall with over 100 chain stores, boutiques, and vendors. It’s a pretty touristy landmark, so I recommend getting your souvenirs at one of the Boston-themed shops!

Located directly in the middle of Faneuil Hall is the infamous Quincy Public Market. There are over 20 food stalls to choose from, but I think the only one worth checking out is Boston Chowda. They sell your classic, creamy New England Clam Chowder in sourdough bread bowls.

North End/Little Italy

Located just a 10-minute walk from Faneuil Hall is the North End neighborhood, also known as Boston’s Little Italy . With over 88 restaurants and bakeries to choose from, it’s definitely one of Boston’s best foodie neighborhoods.

Have some of Boston’s best Italian food at Carmelina’s. The restaurant specializes in Sicilian comfort food with an emphasis on pasta. My go-to is their Crazy Alfredo, which is a spicy Alfredo pasta tossed with chicken, sausage, and sweet roasted red peppers.

After lunch, walk over to Mike’s Pastry on Hanover Street. The Italian pastry shop is famous for their cannolis, which are puff pastries filled with a ricotta cream. They’ve been selling them since 1946 and are a favorite among tourists and locals alike. 

Mike’s has over 15 cannoli flavors to choose from, including limoncello, oreo, and nutella. For first-time visitors, I suggest getting the chocolate chip cannoli. 

In the warmer weather, enjoy your cannoli at the Rose Kennedy Greenway. It’s a public park with outdoor tables, swing benches, and a water fountain. It’s the perfect spot for people-watching!

Boston Common & Boston Public Garden

Next on the one day in Boston itinerary is the Boston Common. Founded in 1634, the Boston Common is the country’s oldest public park! It’s a popular area for recreational sports. You’ll see people playing frisbee, football, and jogging. The park also has an outdoor tennis court and baseball field. In the winter, there’s an outdoor ice skating rink at the Frog Pond. 

Just across the street from the Boston Common is the Boston Public Garden. It’s more ornamental, with an assortment of plants and flowers, statues, and a giant pond in the middle. While you’re there, take a Swan Boat ride for $5. The relaxing 15-minute boat ride takes you around the pond.  

If you’re visiting in Autumn, this is one of the best things to do in Boston in October !

Another must-see area in Boston is Copley Square. Make a stop at the Boston Public Library, the country’s oldest public library! There are two sides to the library – the original side and the newly renovated section.

Upon entrance to the old section, you’ll feel like you’re in a museum rather than a library. The BPL is lined with marble columns, lion statues, and Renaissance-style paintings along the stairwells.

Once you walk upstairs, see the elegant Bates Hall. The silent reading room has grand, high ceilings and old-fashioned bookcases along the walls.

Newbury Street

After checking out the library, walk just one street over to Newbury Street. The shopping street extends 8 blocks and has plenty of stores, restaurants, and art galleries. There’s also an indoor shopping mall nearby called the Prudential. You can easily spend hours here!

Take a break from shopping to try some of the coolest desserts at Jonquils Bakery & Cafe. They specialize in 3D-printed cakes and flora teas. While the 3d-printed pastries aren’t actually 3d printed (they use a 3d printed mold), the cakes come in interesting geometric shapes that are filled with mousse and other fillings.

Jonquils’ flora teas are also very cool. There’s a flower that literally blooms inside of the tea in front of you. 

Boston is famous for its fresh seafood, so enjoy some of the city’s best at Atlantic Fish Co.!

Located in Back Bay, Atlantic Fish Co. is a high-end seafood restaurant and cocktail bar. Popular menu items include the creamy New England Clam Chowder, an assortment of raw oysters, and lobster rolls.

Note: It’s a popular restaurant, so make reservations in advance.

Drink at a Speakeasy

Finish your night off with some drinks. For a fun, unconventional drinking spot, head to one of Boston’s best speakeasies. One of my favorites is Offsuit in Boston’s Leather District. It’s located in an alleyway, and you need to call a number at the door in order to be let in. 

The inside of the cocktail bar is dimly lit, with limited seating. The cocktails are strong (get the espresso martini!), and the food isn’t bad. I like their chocolate chip cookies, which come in a set of two and are served with boozy milk on the side. 

Other speakeasy options include Next Door Speakeasy in East Boston and Hecate in Boston’s Back Bay.

FAQs About Boston

How do i get there.

Upon arrival at the Boston Logan International Airport, use the free Airport shuttle to get downtown. Follow instructions to the Silver Line SL1, which brings you to South Station.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-share app from the airport. 

What are the best ways to get around?

Wear comfortable sneakers because Boston is best traveled on foot! The city is very compact, and a lot of the landmarks are within a 5-15 minute walk of one another. 

The MBTA is Boston’s Public Transportation system. To get around Downtown, you’ll be using the Green Line or Orange Line subway. Each ride is $2.40 using a CharlieCard ticket. If you plan to take the train a lot, buy an unlimited subway day pass for $11 USD. 

An alternative to public transportation is using a ride-share app. Uber and Lyft are the most popular apps in the city.

Is one day in Boston enough?

While one day in Boston is enough to see the most iconic landmarks, I recommend visiting for 3 days to experience all that the city has to offer. Other top Boston attractions include Fenway Park, Harvard University, and popular museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Science. 

Where should I stay?

The two best neighborhoods to stay in are definitely Back Bay or Downtown.

The Back Bay is one of the biggest hubs of the city and is generally safe. You’ll find beautiful brownstone buildings and trendy restaurants lining the streets. It also has three shopping areas — Newbury Street, the Prudential Center, and Copley Place.

Alternatively, you can stay in Boston’s Downtown. It’s a close walking distance to the city’s major historical sites, including the Freedom Trail and Faneuil Hall. It’s also only a 5-minute walk to Chinatown, where you’ll find some of the best Boston cheap eats.

Other safe and accessible neighborhoods to stay in include the North End, South End, Seaport, and Beacon Hill. 

Wrapping Up: One Day in Boston Itinerary

That concludes my complete guide to spending one day in Boston. While there’s so much to see and do in Boston, these are my top 10 picks for 24 hours or less. Safe travels!

Sacha Ivanov writes the US-based travel blog Sacha Eats . As a local to Boston, she’s visited 400+ of the city’s best restaurants and attractions. She also runs the TikTok account @thebostonfoodie, where she shares video reviews of the city’s best restaurants. Her work has been featured on boston.com, NECN, and WBZ Radio. 

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How to See Boston in 1 Day

The city of Boston is one of the most visited destinations in the country and with good reason. Millions of people come each year to experience the rich heritage that comes alive on practically every corner, the abundance of cultural attractions, entertaining venues and diverse dining scene. If you only have one day to explore Boston, jump on the Old Town Trolley and follow these recommended stops to see the best of the city.

Three of the city’s most historic sites are right here and can be toured in about an hour and a half to two hours. You’ll be able to see Paul Revere’s House, the Old North Church and Copp’s Hill Burying Ground all in one stop. If you are interested in more cemeteries, explore Boston’s darker side aboard the city’s only “frightseeing” ghost tour , Ghosts & Gravestones. You’ll visit the streets where the Boston Strangler once prowled and hear local tales of murder and mayhem, ghosts and ghouls.

USS Constitution Stop 3

Discover the fascinating maritime past of Boston and see some of the world’s most amazing ships and vessels. The USS Constitution , originally launched in 1797, is the oldest commissioned warship still afloat and resides in the Boston Navy Yard.

Give yourself about an hour to walk the decks and tour the museum and see all it has to offer. After, allow about a half an hour to see the USS Cassin Young , named after soldier and Medal of Honor Award recipient, Cassin Young. Also residing in the Boston Navy Yard, this ship was first launched in 1943.

The Bunker Hill Monument is also here and you’ll want to give yourself a half an hour to view a stirring tribute to this major battle of the American Revolution.

See the Old State House, the Boston Massacre Site, the Old South Meeting House and King’s Chapel Burying Ground . All of these are stops on the Freedom Trail, but by riding the Old Town Trolley, you’ll have more time to learn about each of these sites and their importance to American History.

To thoroughly enjoy all of these sites, allow yourself about an hour and a half.

Here you’ll find a multitude of great restaurants, upscale shopping and the historical Copley Square , named after the American Portraitist John Singleton Copley. Enjoy the lovely 19th century architecture and the bronze statue of Copley at the north side of the square.

See some of the most photographed spots in the city within the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood. This area is known for its historic houses and makes a fun stroll for those who love beautiful architecture. You’ll also see the quaint row houses on Acorn Street, Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, the Charles Street Meeting House and Louisburg Square, one of Boston’s most prestigious addresses.

And, if you didn’t have a chance to enjoy a meal in Copley Square , Beacon Hill offers a selection of exceptional restaurants and eateries.

At this point in your day, you’ve already seen most of the sites along the Freedom Trail and many other historic points of interest in the city. When you reach Stop 14, hop off and give yourself about an hour to tour the golden-domed Massachusetts State House, the African Meeting House, which is the oldest African American Church in America, the Park Street Church (open summer time only) and the Granary Burying Ground , which is where famed Bostonians Peter Faneuil, Sam Adams, Paul Revere, John Hancock and more are buried.

Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum® and be a part of the event that changed the course of American history.

End your day at Faneuil Hall and Quincy Marketplace . Historic Faneuil Hall was built in 1742 and is one of the most popular sites to see while in Boston. It was here that famous patriots made speeches against British oppression, and where Americans gathered throughout the years in support of various movements. Be sure to look up to see the gilded grasshopper weather vane and ask about its significance during the Revolutionary War. End your day of sightseeing with a stop in the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, home to more than 150 different shops, restaurants and merchant carts. Grab a bite to eat and perhaps a souvenir or two of your unforgettable visit to Beantown.

There is so much to do and see in Boston that it can be overwhelming for just one day. Old Town Trolley makes it easy with this well-planned itinerary that includes a mix of attractions and historic sites to accommodate your entire group.

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One Day in Boston: The Best Boston Itinerary for 24 Hours

Posted on Published: April 4, 2021  - Last updated: July 30, 2024

Categories Blog , City Guides , Massachusetts , Travel Guides , United States

When you’re planning a trip to New England, you should spend at least one day in Boston. It’s an incredibly charming, historic American city that will leave you wanting more. I spent a week road tripping across the state of Massachusetts.

I spent a few days exploring Western Massachusetts and Northampton (known as “the other side of Massachusetts”), and a couple of days in North Central MA. Don’t miss the awesome beer scene in Johnny Appleseed Country .

This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

At the same time, you’ll want to incorporate 1 day in Boston within a larger New England trip. Spend 2 days in Boston if you can before moving on to other amazing destinations, like Portsmouth (New Hampshire ) , Southern Maine , and Portland, Maine.

While I had a little over 24 hours in Boston, I made the most of my time in the city by wandering around and seeing the most important Boston attractions. When you’re looking for things to do in Boston in one day, you know that it won’t be enough time.

Seeing any place in a day is always tricky. However, you can cover a lot of ground with the proper planning. I’ve got you covered in that regard! Here’s my one day in Boston itinerary for an awesome trip.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Boston

I managed to arrive in Boston during Friday afternoon rush hour traffic. I don’t recommend this. While I am used to driving in Toronto city traffic, which can be terrible at the best of times. Boston was on a whole other level. By the time I reached the hotel, I was feeling beyond stressed out.

Thankfully, the staff at the Lenox Hotel immediately eased my tension. They helped us with my luggage and the valet whisked my car away. I was happy to bid farewell to my car for the duration of my time in Boston. Between Uber and walking everywhere, there was no reason to deal with traffic jams and finding parking spaces.

Staying at the Lenox Hotel in Boston

The Lenox Hotel is the complete package: it’s romantic, luxurious, and has a prime location. I had an enormous room had two beds, a sitting area, a desk, and even a fireplace. From one window, I could gaze beyond this historic, brick hotel across the rooftops. From another window, I watched the most gorgeous sunset.

Summer sunsets in Boston are incredible, and it was such a treat to view it so perfectly from our hotel room. One of my favorite things about The Lenox was how easy it was to walk everywhere. It served as the best home base as it was right in the middle of town. I loved being able to leave the car behind and not worry. You can easily explore Boston on foot, too.

I stayed for two nights at the Lenox Hotel, although I could have easily stayed for longer. Even though this Boston itinerary gives you plans for 24 hours in Boston, I actually stayed here for about a day and a half. It’s the best accommodation, even if you are only discovering Boston in a day or two days. Book your stay at the Lenox Hotel or read more reviews by fellow travelers who have spent the night.

BOOK YOUR STAY

More Hotels in Boston

Want more choices? There are lots of incredible hotels in Boston . Here’s a handy booking tool where you can see all of the accommodations and vacation rentals in one place. It’s easy to compare prices and find the best rate for your trip to Boston.

Getting Around Boston

I drove my own car to Boston from Toronto on a road trip across New York and Massachusetts . Once I reached Boston, I parked my car at the hotel and didn’t need it in the city. I either walked around most places or took an Uber from place to place.

With that said, you might want access to a rental car during your stay in Boston. Perhaps you’d rather have the freedom to drive wherever you’d like. Boston is a pretty big place, and you won’t be able to get everywhere with walking alone. You also might want a rental car once you leave Boston if you continue on a New England road trip.

I love comparing car rental prices with Discover Cars. You can find the best rates by comparing the prices of various rental car companies to save some money. Here’s where you can compare rental car rates to find the best car rental in Boston.

BOOK YOUR RENTAL CAR

Boston CityPASS

If you plan to stay for one day in Boston, two days in Boston, or longer, I suggest getting your hands on a Boston CityPASS . You gain admission to four Boston attractions for one low price.

I recommend taking the Boston Harbor Cruise (more details below!), visiting the Museum of Science, and checking out the Harvard Museum of Natural History. You’ll save some cash and be able to visit some top Boston attractions and activities.

GET YOUR BOSTON CITYPASS

Go Boston Pass: Another Way to Save Money

I wasn’t able to take advantage of this option when I visited Boston, but it seems like a great deal to me. The Go Boston Pass allows you to save up to 55% on top attractions in the city. With the pass, you’ll get admission to over 40 activities and attractions, plus discounts on many others.

You have the option to choose a 1-, 2- , 3-, 5-, or 7-day pass. It’s perfect even if you’re wondering what to see in Boston in one day. It comes with a digital guidebook that helps you select your activities and map out your day.

GET THE GO BOSTON PASS

The Night Before: Dinner at By Chloe

Once I arrived to Boston in the late afternoon and got settled in at the Lenox Hotel, I was pretty hungry. It was time for dinner! If you end up spending two nights and one day in Boston, this is a great dining recommendation.

Even if you aren’t vegan or purely plant-based, By Chloe is a delicious option for everyone. It’s comfort food and fast food that’s quite a bit healthier than the standard fare. The menu items contain no meat, dairy, eggs, animal products, and they’re free of artificial flavors, preservatives, cholesterol, and animal saturated fats.

There are a wide variety of menu options, including burgers, sandwiches, pasta, sides, baked goods, ice cream, and more! You order at the front counter and the food is made fresh and fast. I ordered the Mac N Cheese – shell pasta with a sweet potato cashew cheese sauce, topped with shiitake bacon, and my travel buddy ordered a vegan hot dog with all the fixins’.

They’ve also got a great selection of desserts at the front, including vegan ice cream and cupcakes. By Chloe even has those little Hostess cupcakes, gone completely plant-based, of course!

One Day in Boston Itinerary: Must See Boston

Waking up feeling completely refreshed at The Lenox Hotel, we headed out for breakfast. Unfortunately, I had an epic blogger blunder and brought my camera…without its battery. The battery was still charging in the hotel room!

Thank goodness our breakfast place was a five minute walk from the hotel. I jogged back and grabbed the battery and made it back for breakfast shortly after it was prepared. For breakfast, I recommend dining at the Juice Press.

Breakfast at the Juice Press

Start the day off right! The Juice Press has two locations in Boston, and over 70 shops across the country. They’re a completely vegan establishment with the exception of honey in an item or two. The Juice Press has smoothies, smoothie bowls, juices, protein shakes, and light meals like salads and noodle jars.

I ordered the Acai Blueberry Bowl, which was nutritious and delicious. Made with banana, acai berry, blueberry, coconut nectar, maple, granola and maple toasted coconut flakes, it was satisfying and healthy. This is a great place to stop for a quick meal on the go, and I imagine that people working near the Juice Press love their grab and go lunch options.

Go Sightseeing With Boston Harbor Cruises

For my first Boston attraction during my one day in Boston, I boarded a boat to see the coast and city skyline. With Boston Harbor Cruises , you’ll view an entirely different side of Boston from the water. Cruise around for 90 minutes to view the city’s skyline and surrounding islands. We heard some interesting historical tales about Boston that you’ll just have to hear for yourself on the trip.

The cruises depart at set times throughout the day, so be sure to take a peek at their schedule before you head out. I recommend arriving early to make sure you ensure a spot on the boat, and also to get one of the best seats in the house.

Tip: I booked my cruise with the Boston CityPASS . This card saves you up to 45% on top Boston attractions, including a trip with Boston Harbor Cruises. Present your CityPASS voucher at the ticket booth to board the cruise.

All of the chairs face the same direction and for good reason – so you’re looking at the best view! Snag some seats in the front row like we did for the best viewing (and photo) opportunities. Another tip: wear sunscreen! After sitting out in the summer sun for an hour and a half, my shoulders were a little bit red.

I suggest starting your 24 hours in Boston with the harbor cruise so you can learn some historical facts and details about the city. It’s great to learn some interesting stories and perspectives before going sightseeing in Boston.

BOOK YOUR BOSTON HARBOR CRUISE

One Day in Boston: Visit the Boston Public Market

By now, you might be feeling a little bit hungry again. Head on over to the Boston Public Market , home to over 35 vendor stalls and open 7 days a week all year long. You can find locally sourced food from Massachusetts and New England. In this land of seafood, there are a few vegan options.

Inna’s Kitchen

I opted for a falafel pita at Inna’s Kitchen, which serves traditional Jewish cuisine from around the world. Super flavorful falafels, stuffed inside a pita with veggies and topped with tahini – you can’t go wrong with this one.

Jennifer Lee’s Allergy Free Bakery

Wander across the market to Jennifer Lee’s Allergy Free Bakery to indulge in some vegan desserts. From cookies to donuts, Jennifer has got your cravings covered. There are also sandwiches and paninis, too, although these sell out as the day goes on. Get your favorite while it lasts!

Time for Coffee: Thinking Cup Coffee Shop

The Boston Public Market was very busy around lunchtime and there weren’t many places to sit. We actually stood at the only free table to eat our lunch. In need of somewhere to rest our legs (and, as always, the desire to sip a cup of coffee), we walked across the way to the Thinking Cup coffee shop .

This cute and charming cafe was the perfect place to pause on a day of adventures. The coffee was strong and there were even some vegan and gluten-free options for food. Even though I was really full from lunch, I’d consider going back for more dessert here if I had 2 days in Boston or more.

Things to Do in Boston: North End Park

On a hot day, don’t you wish you could run through a sprinkler like when you were a kid? Well, fear not. North End Park is a grassy patch in the middle of the city where the young and young at heart can go for a roam through the fountains. If you’ve got one day in Boston and happen to be walking past, why not check out this darling little green space?

Well, maybe it wasn’t designed for a grown-up travel blogging lady to go prancing through…but, why not? I also adored the urban garden bursting with greenery and flowers in the middle of the park. It’s a great picnic spot, or even just an area to cool down from the summer heat.

Must See in Boston: Beacon Hill

Who wouldn’t love wandering around an enchanting, historic neighborhood? As you stroll around the streets of Beacon Hill, you’ll notice colonial row houses, brick sidewalks, cobblestone streets, antiquated iron fences, and painted front doors.

On Beacon Street itself, walk past the captivating Massachusetts State House with its majestic pillars and impressive golden dome. Then, take a detour towards Acorn Street, one of the most photographed streets in the United States. You can’t help but immediately fall for this neighborhood.

It’s always a good idea to take a walking tour with a knowledgeable guide. On this two hour walking tour , you’ll learn lots of intriguing stories and facts about Boston. The tour includes visits to King’s Chapel, the Massachusetts State House, Beacon Hill, and more.

BOOK YOUR WALKING TOUR OF BOSTON

Boston in 24 Hours: See the Boston Public Garden

The Public Garden quickly became one of my favorite places to visit in Boston. When spending one day in Boston, you must add the Public Garden to your travel plans. Established in 1837, it’s the first public botanical garden in the USA.

The garden showcases over 80 species of plants and flowers initially cultivated in local greenhouses. It is free to wander and explore. From paddling around in a Swan Boat to admiring the fountains and statues, a jaunt around Boston’s Public Garden is something you simply must do.

Make Way For Ducklings

While you’re there, say hello to the adorable “ Make Way For Ducklings ” statues and greet the real ducks that grace the lagoon. Relax beneath a weeping willow tree on a warm, summer day, and you might never want to leave this oasis in the city.

I also managed to see some real ducklings in addition those of the statue variety. There were also other residents of the park: squirrels, chipmunks, pigeons and birds.

Monuments and Statues

Boston Public Garden and Boston Common have many monuments and statues dedicated to important figures throughout history. Stop to discover these plaques and memorials whether you’re visiting the park or walking the Freedom Trail.

Boston Common and the Freedom Trail

Although we didn’t spend a lot of time exploring the Freedom Trail, I’d start here upon my return to Boston. Start at Boston Common, America’s oldest public park, founded in 1634. Boston Common has loads of walking paths, a vintage carousel, a frog pond (that becomes a skating rink in the winter), and many monuments.

Prepare to be fascinated by 16 historically significant sites, from churches to burying grounds. For more information, including a detailed map, please check out the Freedom Trail’s official website .

Dinner at Artbar Cambridge

After a day of wandering, we were pretty starving. Enter ArtBar Cambridge . The chef prepared a special vegan meal for the both of us, and it was incredibly delicious. On the menu, everything that’s vegetarian is marked with a “V”.

Be sure to inquire in advance if you follow a vegan diet, as I’m sure you can savor an equally magical dining experience to the one that I did! This meal matched the summer patio weather so well, starting with a chilled peach and watermelon soup.

From there, we were served a flavorful pesto vegetable flatbread, topped with artichokes and arugula. The main course was falafel served over couscous. At the end of the meal, we devoured a tart fruit sorbet with ripe berries. To drink, what could be better than a watermelon sling?

The view was almost as good as the food, as we admired scenery of the sun setting over the harbor as we dined.

Want to see more photos of Boston?

View all of our travel photography in one place! You can browse and buy any of our pictures in the form of canvas prints, things for the home, and more!

Extended One Day in Boston: Stay for Breakfast

Before heading out the next morning, I went for breakfast at a nearby restaurant with the best name ever, The Friendly Toast . It’s a pretty popular place and often difficult to get a table right away. Fear not: the restaurant puts you on a list, and they’ll text you when your table is ready. Pretty cool, eh?

The Friendly Toast has a wild, eclectic design. There are lots of kitschy knickknacks on the bar, shelves, and hanging from the ceiling. Even our table had a little ceramic owl on it.

The menu has a few vegan breakfast items, including a breakfast burrito and a tofu scramble. I ordered the vegan pancakes with a side of home fries. It ended up being way too much food, although I don’t regret the decision as both the pancakes and potatoes were very yummy.

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2 Days in Boston: More Things to Do in Boston

Planning to stay longer than just one day in Boston? I can hardly blame you! Boston is such a fascinating city with so many things to see and do. Here are some more ideas for your Boston travel itinerary that I’m adding to my list for the next time I visit.

• Harvard University Tour : Embark on a student led tour of Harvard
• Explore more of Cambridge after visiting Harvard. There are lots of squares, cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and more.
• Boston Craft Beer Tour : Go behind the scenes at three local craft breweries
• Check out a sporting event, like a Boston Red Sox game at Fenway Park
• Besides the Boston Public Market, there are other great markets to check out. Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a marketplace district that’s home to Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market.
• Go for a walk on the Charles River Esplanade
• Check out the Skywalk Observatory for epic city views

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Thursday 14th of March 2024

We are heading to New England from Ottawa and your blog has been very helpful. Staying in Portsmouth and Plymouth so thanks for all the tips.

Lauren Yakiwchuk

Friday 15th of March 2024

Thank you so much, Britta! I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Monday 6th of December 2021

Nice blog! Thanks for sharing amazing travel guide with beautiful pictures.

Wednesday 14th of November 2018

Hey! Love the pictures – just wondering, what camera do you use? Or are you using a smart phone? Lmk!

Thursday 15th of November 2018

I use a Panasonic Lumix GH4 to take mostly all of my pics - I just use my smartphone for Instagram really! I've written all about the photography gear I use here if you'd like to take a look: https://justinpluslauren.com/essential-travel-photography-gear-guide/ :)

Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net)

Monday 25th of December 2017

Fun day! We have yet to actually spend a day IN Boston. It's always a transit point to someplace else. We really need to change that! Love the Public Garden, and the Harbor Cruise - great ideas.

Friday 22nd of December 2017

Boston is a great road trip stop! The harbor cruise was great and yes, the guides tell so much interesting info that I would have never guessed! Definitely hit up the market, too.

How to Spend One Day in Boston: Itinerary & Best Things to Do

Boston is one of the most visited cities in the United States and offers an array of awesome tourist attractions. It’s also the capital city of Massachusetts and is situated within Massachusett Bay – which is part of New England. 

Now, if you’re only spending one day in Boston, it can be pretty overwhelming choosing which sights to visit. However, I’ve got you covered!

I’m going to cover the must-visit sights if you’re only spending a day in Boston so that you can make the most out of your trip. This guide is also going to give you all the information you need including how to get around the city, where to stay, and the best time to visit. 

Boston is relatively small compared to other cities in the US and the main tourist areas are situated quite close together. If you follow this itinerary, you won’t have to fuss around with public transport or spend hours walking between destinations!

So, let’s get into the article and show you the ultimate one-day Boston itinerary.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Overview of Your One Day Boston Itinerary

Breakdown of your one day in boston.

Here is a quick overview of how you’re going to spend your one day in Boston.

• Morning: Mike’s Pastry, North End (Paul Revere House, Old North Church, Copps Hill Burying Ground, Skinny House, Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum)
• Afternoon: Quincy Market, Sam Adams Boston Taproom, part of the Freedom Trail (Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston Massacre Site, Old State House, Old South Meeting House, Old Corner Book Store, Benjamin Franklin Statue, King’s Chapel, Granary Burying Ground, Park Street Church, Massachusetts State House), Boston Common, Public Garden
• Evening: Beacon Hill (Acorn Street, Longfellow Bridge, dinner)

Map for your one day in Boston

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Boston itinerary.

I marked the different times of your one day in Boston with different colors – I used blue for the morning, green for the afternoon, and red for the evening, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit during the day.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Morning of Your One Day in Boston

Morning treats at mike’s pastry .

Visit time: 8 am – 8.30 am

Mike’s Pastry is a super popular pastry shop within the city and is the perfect way to fuel your one day in Boston.

I’ve started the itinerary with this spot, as it’s best to head there in the morning to avoid the biggest lines. If you decide to visit in the afternoon, you’ll be queuing for ages – no kidding!

Situated on Hanover Street, this renowned Italian bakeshop is famous for its unique cannoli. Some of the tastiest flavors include chocolate-covered, Nutella, hazelnut, and strawberry. Although you’re only spending a day in Boston, you don’t want to leave the city without tasting one of these!

If you don’t fancy cannoli, this quirky bakery has plenty of other choices. Why not try some of their biscotti, macaroons, fig cookies, or ricotta pie? You can also taste their delicious lobster tails (don’t worry – there is no actual lobster tail in there). 

Even if you get there at 8 am when it opens, it’s likely you may have to queue. So, if it’s a rainy day in Boston make sure you’ve got an umbrella!

Explore the North End

Visit time: 8:30 am – 10 am 

Mike’s Pastry is actually located within the North End and is only a 2-minute walk from the Paul Revere House. That means you can get straight into exploring this neighborhood or ‘Little Italy’ as it’s sometimes known. 

The North End is the oldest neighborhood in the city and is home to the best Italian food in Boston (hence your visit to Mike’s Pastry). 

As you wander through the narrow alleyways, you’ll be bombarded with amazing sights and smells of Italian dishes and treats. This area is also situated on the waterfront, so make sure you take a stroll along the harborfront. 

However, the most popular sights in the North End are the Old North Church , Copp’s Hill Burying Ground , and the Paul Revere House . No one day Boston itinerary is complete without a visit to these three sites!

I’d recommend visiting the Paul Revere House first as it’s such a short distance from your breakfast spot.

This house was built around 1680 and is the oldest remaining structure in Downtown Boston. You can tour the home and get a unique perspective into Paul Revere’s life – the famous patriot, craftsman, and entrepreneur.

From there, head to the Old North Church which is a 5-minute walk away. The Old North Church is the city’s oldest church and is one of the most visited historical sites in Boston. It’s best known for its unique architecture and the midnight ride of Paul Revere. 

And lastly, finish your visit to the North End with a trip to Copp’s Hill Burying Ground. This is the final resting place for many people who lived in the North End and was used continuously throughout the 1850s.

Right across the Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, it’s worth taking a look at the Skinny House, the narrowest house in all of Boston. Legend says that two brothers inherited the land after their father died in the American Civil War.

One of the brothers decided to build a huge home without waiting for the other one to return from the military. Once the other brother returned, he built the Skinny house as revenge on the tiny land he had left, to block the sunlight and ruin the view of his brother’s house.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Visit time: 10:30 am – 12 pm

The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is a 25-minute walk from Copp’s Hill Burying Ground so allow yourself time to get there. In case you plan to walk there along the waterfront, make sure to stop by the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park on the way!

If you’re only spending one day in Boston, I understand there will be a lot of sights you want to see. 

However, this one needs to be included in your itinerary! Visiting the museum is one of the best things to do in Boston and you’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped back in time. 

The tour of the museum takes you back to 1773 and allows you to become part of the famous Boston Tea Party. This political protest was against the British Parliament’s Tea Act which aimed to save the East India Company by lowering its tea tax.

Throughout the tour, you’ll get to learn about the events that led to this and relive the battle through 3D holograms and live actors. You’ll also get a chance to throw tea overboard, and see what it would have been like to be part of the ‘Sons of Liberty’.

The tours last just over 60 minutes and start every 15 minutes, except if you visit in fall and winter. If you’re heading to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum at this time of year, the tours tend to start every 30 minutes. You’ll need to consider this, and possibly allow more time if that’s the case. 

You can get your tickets here for the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Interactive tour . 

Afternoon of Your One Day in Boston

Quincy market .

Visit time: 12:15 pm – 1:30 pm 

Quincy Market is a shopper’s paradise and one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions as it’s situated along the Freedom Trail.

With over 100 different stores, artisan carts, restaurants, and pubs there is plenty to do. However, after a full morning of exploring, I can imagine you’d be pretty hungry at this point!

Luckily, Quincy Market has an array of food choices waiting for you. I recommend eating at Boston Chowda as they serve the most delicious (you guessed it) Boston clam chowder. 

This tasty traditional dish is a cream-based seafood soup. It contains clams, diced potatoes, and onions, and is then thickened with crackers. 

If you’re not a fan of seafood, there are plenty of other choices including El Paso Enchiladas, the Dog House, and Regina Pizzeria. 

I’d then finish up your lunch with a Boston cream pie – a delicious 2-layer cake filled with either vanilla custard or cream, before being covered with chocolate sauce. Yum! 

You can also visit Sam Adams Boston Taproom as an optional extra! Here you can enjoy an array of exclusive beers, and relax whilst you let your food digest.

Quincy Market is without a doubt one of the best things to see in Boston in one day. So make sure you leave yourself enough time to wander around the market and treat yourself to some unique buys!

Freedom Trail

Visit time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm 

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile (4 km) trail that connects 16 historic sites in the city. If you’ve only got one day in Boston – this needs to be your priority. 

These sites play an important part in the history of the United States, as they are all related to the American Revolution. The first part of this trail I’ve placed in reverse order, as you’ve already ticked off a couple of places. 

The Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, Old North Church, and the Paul Revere House are also part of the Freedom trail but you would’ve already explored these when visiting the North End. 

First up is Faneuil Hall, which is a 1-minute walk from Quincy Market. This hall hosted America’s first-ever town meeting so holds a pretty important place in the history books.

From there you’ll head to the Boston Massacre Site, where 5 civilians were unfortunately killed by gunfire due to a clash in the streets. 

Next, you’ll walk to the Old State House, the Old South Meeting House, and the Old Corner Bookstore. 

From the bookstore, you’ll walk to the Benjamin Franklin Statue which is situated outside the Boston Latin School. This school was founded in 1635 and is the oldest public school in America. 

After visiting the statue, you’ll continue along the Freedom Trail until you reach King’s Chapel. You’ll then walk to Granary Burying Ground, and Park Street Church, before finishing at Massachusetts State House.

Now, this may sound like a lot of places, but this section of the trail can easily be covered within 1-2 hours. 

Here is a quick overview: 

• Faneuil Hall
• Boston Massacre Site (4-minute walk from Faneuil Hall) 
• Old State House (1-minute walk from Boston Massacre)
• Old South Meeting House (4-minute walk from Old State House)
• Old Corner Bookstore (1-minute walk from Old South Meeting House)
• Benjamin Franklin’s Statue (2-minute walk from the Old Corner Bookstore)
• King’s Chapel (1-minute walk from Benjamin Franklin’s Statue) 
• Granary Burying Ground (3-minute walk from King’s Chapel)
• Park Street Church (1-minute walk from Granary Burying Ground)
• Massachusetts State House (3-minute walk from Park Street Church) 

If you want to learn a bit more about each place, you can head on a 2.5-hour Freedom Trail walking tour . This tour will take you to all 16 sights along the Freedom Trail, so you can adjust your itinerary accordingly. 

However, if you simply want to walk the trail on your own you can print out a Freedom Trail brochure! 

Boston Common

Visit time: 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Boston Common is next on this list, as it’s only a 1-minute walk from Massachusetts State House. It was established in 1634, making it America’s oldest public park and it’s part of Boston’s famous Freedom Trail. 

Not only is this park beautiful, but it’s also the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Although you’re only spending a day in Boston, you’re entitled to a bit of relaxation! 

You can take a stroll around the common, ride a carousel, or simply grab a drink and take a seat for a while. You’ll also find that throughout the year, certain events are held here so keep an eye out for those! 

Although you’re probably not looking to work up a sweat after a day exploring Boston, you’ve also got the choice of heading to the tennis courts or basketball fields. 

However, one of the best times to visit Boston Common is winter! You can go sledding, and Boston Common Frog Pond is famous for ice skating during the winter months.

If you’re wanting to see the best of Boston in a day, don’t leave this place out. 

Public Garden (Make Way for the Ducklings)

Visit time: 4.30 pm – 5.30 pm

The Public Garden is right next to Boston Common and is another great spot to relax in the city. It was the first-ever botanical garden in America and was established in 1837.

This Victorian-era garden has a lot to offer, with beautiful flowers, plenty of space to walk around, and of course, the famous ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ statues.

These statues depict a duck family and are the most popular attraction in the Public Garden. They were inspired by Robert McCluskey’s book ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ which follows the adventures of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard. These statues are a must-visit while exploring Boston in one day!

You can also take a ride on one of the ‘swan boats’ which have been taking tourists on a ride of the lagoon since 1877. The lagoon also has its own resident pair of swans that arrive in May for the summer months.

Now, of course, one of the main highlights is the many exotic trees and plants that can be found here. 

The most spectacular show of all is put on by the tulips, as each year around 26,000 tulips bloom for a month or more. The colors are extraordinary and make for one of the most photographed events in Boston.

Evening of Your One Day in Boston

Beacon hill.

Visit time: 6 pm – 9 pm

After spending a day in Boston exploring all the popular sights and eating delicious food, you may think that’s your itinerary finished. No way!

What better way to sign off your one day in Boston than by visiting Beacon Hill? Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s most historic neighborhoods and one of the most picturesque areas in the city. 

Although it only covers half a square mile, Beacon Hill is filled with incredible architecture, historical landmarks, local boutiques, and of course, plenty of restaurants! 

One of the must-visit spots to end your evening is Acorn Street. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the country, and once you see the red-brick sidewalks and cobblestones – it’s easy to see why!

Acorn Street is famous within Boston as it’s an original cobblestone street, which is incredibly difficult to find these days. 

Another place you just have to visit during your time in Beacon Hill is Longfellow Bridge. It offers superb views of the harbor – especially at sunset! 

This bridge spans the Charles River and connects Beacon Hills with the Cambridge neighborhood. You can walk right over the bridge as a pedestrian, and you’ll see it beautifully light up in the evening – another reason why it’s best to leave this one till the end. 

There are also plenty of great restaurants in the area for dinner, and here are some of my recommendations.

Toscano is the place to go if you fancy some Tuscan cuisine. They serve up flavorful handmade pasta, and delicious pizzas, with plenty of wines to choose from. The Paramount is another great choice and is known for its tasty food and cozy atmosphere. 

This is probably all that you’ll have time for when it comes to your one-day Boston itinerary. 

However, if you find you still have a bit of free time why not head to Charles Street which is one of the city’s best shopping areas. Or you can wander around Louisburg Square which is one of the most affluent areas in all of Boston.

Useful Info for Spending One Day in Boston

Where to stay in boston.

As you’re looking to see the best of Boston in a day, you’ll benefit from having a centrally located hotel. If you plan to follow this itinerary, I’d recommend staying in either Downtown Boston or the North End.

Downtown Boston is a brilliant area for sightseeing and is known for its quirky bars and delicious restaurants. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods in Boston.

The North End is situated right on the waterfront and is home to the best Italian food in the city. The nightlife scene isn’t as big here as in Downtown Boston, so it’s a better option for families with young children.

When it comes to staying in Downtown Boston you’ll have plenty of choices, whereas the North End is a bit more limited. 

If you want to read more about the best areas to stay in the city, check out my in-depth guide about where to stay in Boston . However, if you’re in a bit of a hurry and just want to get something booked – here are my top recommendations. 

• Luxury: Boston Harbor Hotel
• Mid-range: The Godfrey Hotel Boston
• Budget: Harborside Inn

How to get to Boston

Boston Logan International Airport serves as the primary airport for New England. It serves plenty of domestic and international flights and is situated about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from Downtown Boston. 

There are several ways to get from the airport to the city center, but the best way is the free bus. It takes you right from the terminals into Downtown. You can also grab a taxi, or simply hire a car. 

If you’re traveling from other cities in the United States you can choose to take a train service into the city. Amtrak is the best choice as it connects Boston with Baltimore, New York, Portland, and Washington D.C among others.

Catching the bus between cities is another popular choice. One of the best websites for cheap bus tickets is Megabus , as they cover over 100 cities in the United States.

You’ll often find that many of the train and bus services run overnight if the journeys are long, which is great as it saves you a night of accommodation costs! 

Best time to visit Boston 

Although Boston can be visited at any time of year, the best time tends to be either the summer months (June-August) or fall (September-October). 

If you’re visiting between June and August, expect lots of crowds. The temperatures hover between 60-80°F (15-26°C), and the humidity can be pretty stifling. The warm climate attracts plenty of tourists, so the popular attractions can get pretty busy. 

Fall is another great time to visit Boston. The months of September and October will see the humidity and temperatures drop to around 46-57°F (8-14°C). This makes walking around the city much easier and the fall colors are simply beautiful. Boston is actually a great starting point for a New England fall foliage road trip !

If you’re looking to save a bit of cash, you can always head to Boston during the off-season. November and December are often the cheapest times to visit as hotel prices drop. However, Boston winters aren’t for the faint-hearted so you’ll have to come prepared! 

How to get around Boston 

Boston has plenty of great public transport links including the subway, local buses, and commuter rail. You can also use ferries and water taxis to get around too!

Getting around Boston is pretty cheap, but if you don’t fancy taking public transport you can also make use of the city’s bike-share program. The city only covers an area of 89 square miles (232 km2) which means it’s incredibly easy to get around.

However, you won’t have to worry about catching public transport for this one day Boston itinerary, as it’s fully walkable! This means much more time for sightseeing, as you don’t have to worry about traveling to the other side of the city. 

If you do decide spending one day in Boston just isn’t enough, then make sure you use public transport to visit some of the other popular neighborhoods within the city. This includes taking trips out to Fenway-Kenmore, and the South End.

Planning a trip to New England?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about New England. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Massachusetts:

• Where to Stay in Boston: 8 Best Areas & Hotels
• 13 Best Day Trips from Boston You Can’t Miss
• 133 Best Boston Captions for Instagram (Quotes, Puns & More)
• 19 Spooky Things to Do in Salem MA in October
• 7 Hocus Pocus Filming Locations in Salem You Can’t Miss
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip for 2 Weeks
• Vermont in the Fall: Travel Tips & Best Places to Visit
• 16 Incredible Things to Do in Woodstock VT
• 17 Amazing Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont
• 15 Best Airbnbs in Stowe, Vermont (Cottages, Cabins & More)
• 17 Incredible Covered Bridges in Vermont You Need to Visit
• 81 Amazing Vermont Quotes & Captions for Instagram

New Hampshire:

• Kancamagus Highway Fall Foliage Drive: 9 Best Attractions & Tips for Visiting
• The Perfect 2 Days in Acadia National Park Itinerary
• How to Spend One Day in Portland, Maine
• 5 Prettiest Lighthouses in Portland Maine You Can’t Miss

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How to Spend One Day in Boston: Full Guide to the Freedom Trail & More

November 12, 2022.

Boston is a storied city full of delectable Italian food, important historic sites and beautiful architecture. A walk on the Freedom Trail, with some great food along the way, is sure to transport you back 100’s of years to the birth of the United States.

If it’s your first time in Boston and you’re looking for a one day itinerary, you’re in the right place! This guide includes a full guide to walking the Freedom Trail, the best food near the Freedom Trail and other tips along the way. Note that this itinerary involves a lot of walking, be sure to wear comfortable shoes!

This blog is based on my experience spending a month in Boston in November 2022.

Table of Contents

Breakfast near the start of the freedom trail, boston public library, optional: explore beacon hill and visit acorn street, boston common, massachusetts state house, park street church, granbury burying ground, king’s chapel and king’s chapel burying ground, boston latin school site, old corner bookstore, old south meeting house, old state house, boston massacre site, faneuil hall, lunch at quincy market or boston public market, paul revere house, old north church, copp’s hill burying ground, bonus: walk across the gridley locks footpath instead of the north washington street bridge, uss constitution, bunker hill monument, have dinner in the north end, where to stay in boston, getting around boston, when to visit boston, boston tea party museum, isabella gardner museum, final thoughts, more new england and new york guides:, boston one day itinerary.

Discover the best things to do in Boston if you only have one day! Here is a summary of this Boston one day itinerary:

• Have breakfast near the start of the Freedom Trail
• Visit the Boston Public Library
• Take a quick walk around Beacon Hill
• Walk the 2.5 mile long Boston Freedom Trail
• Have lunch at the Boston Public Market
• Have dinner in the North End

Start with a filling breakfast to get ready for a day full of walking and exploring! Here are three breakfast options near the start of your day.

Flour Bakery is a Boston chain with a location not far from the start of the Freedom Trail (on Clarendon Street). They serve a large menu of pastries and breakfast items and are even led by a James Beard Award-winning pastry chef. I loved the breakfast sandwich with egg souffle, arugula, guacamole, cheese and tomato!

Another great place for breakfast nearby is the Friendly Toast. This popular brunch spot serves vegan options, mimosa flights, chicken and waffles and more. Expect a wait and get there early, but this is a good choice if you’re looking for something fun!

Finally, a third option is Mike and Patty’s, which is known for their delectable breakfast sandwiches such as the ‘Fancy’ and ‘Grilled Crack.’ They are one of the highest rated places for breakfast sandwiches in the city!

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful and expansive Central Boston Public Library. The library typically opens at 9:00AM Monday - Saturday and opens later on Sundays. I recommend arriving close to the opening to start your day.

The Boston Public Library system was first established in 1848, making it the oldest, largest free municipal library in the US. It was also the first public library to lend books, have branches and have a children’s room.

The Central Library is made up of two attached buildings - one built in 1895 and a more modern wing built in 1972 (and renovated in 2016). The most famous portion that you’ll see in photos is the Bates Hall. This iconic reading room has high arched windows and is 218 feet long, 42 feet wide and 50 feet tall. It’s a beautiful room where you can read a book, work on a laptop or just take in the view. Just be sure to be quiet and respectful of others.

The Bates Hall is located on the second floor and the staircase leading up to it is also stunning. While you’re here, also check out the courtyard that separates the historic and the more modern parts of the library.

If you are interested in architecture, the Boston Public Library Central branch is definitely worth a stop on your Boston itinerary.

Just north of the start of the Freedom Trail is the beautiful Beacon Hill neighborhood. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets, brick row houses and antique lanterns. The most famous street in the neighborhood is Acorn Street, said to be the most photographed street in the city (and perhaps the nation).

Acorn Street gets very crowded and there are sometimes signs asking visitors not to trespass. Be sure to respect the residents by moving quickly and quietly if you visit.

Walk the Freedom Trail

The Boston Freedom trail is a 2.5-mile route that passes 16 historically significant locations in United States history. You can follow the route around the city by looking for the line of red bricks that connects all of the sites.

Some locations cost admission to enter, while others are free. If you want to learn from a guide along the way, there are many different tours offered. You can find traditional historic walking tours, pub crawls, lantern tours that focus more on the dark side of history and more. Note that most tours do not cover the entire Freedom Trail, only a portion.

I opted to do a self guided walking tour and read about the destinations along the way. I also choose to pay to go into only a couple spots. If you’re interested in doing a self guided Freedom trail walk, keep reading for more information on each location!

Tip: Download the free Freedom trail brochure to read about the various locations along the way.

Begin your walk on the Freedom Trail at Boston Common. Established in 1634, this is America’s oldest public park.

The land for the park was purchased by Puritan colonists and used as a “Common Land” for local livestock until 1830. Later in history, the land was used a “trayning field” for Redcoats during their occupation of Boston in 1775. As the years went on, the land has been used in many instances for discourse and public demonstrations, such as a civil rights rally held by Martin Luther King Jr, Vietnam War protest rallies, a Mass by Pope John Paul II and more.

The Freedom Trail officially begins here in the park at the Boston Common Visitor Center. The visitor center has souvenirs, restrooms and informational brochures. Before you start the trail here, I recommend exploring the park a bit.

Don’t miss the Public Garden, where you’ll see sculptures, a pond and beautiful landscaping. This is technically located across the street from Boston Common and offers Swan Boats to drive around the pond in the warmer months.

Also take a look at the Earl of Sandwich, a unique building that was formerly used as a men’s restroom in the early 1900’s. The fast food sandwich chain spent over a million dollars to renovate the building to what it is today.

After exploring the park, follow the red bricks from the visitor center to the Massachusetts State house as you begin your historic walk around Boston.

The Massachusetts State House opened in 1798 and has been home to the Massachusetts legislative and executive branches ever since. The building is free to enter on weekdays, but closed on weekends and holidays. If you schedule in advance, you can also take a free tour of the state house.

Since I visited on a weekend, I enjoyed the view from outside and then continued to stop number three.

The Park Street Church is an historic site in Boston that is over 200 years old. It was founded in 1809 and was once one of the first landmarks a visitor would see on their trip to Boston.

Throughout history inside the church, there have been talks of prison reform, women’s suffrage and impassioned protests against slavery. The church also held onto brimstone (a part of gunpowder) in the basement during the War of 1812.

You can visit the inside of the church seasonally. In 2022, it was open to the public from the end of June to the end of August. They also offer Sunday Services open to all.

Right next door to the Park Street Church, you’ll find the Granbury Burying Ground. In my opinion, this is one of the most interesting stops on the trail. The cemetery has the gravestones of many notable figures, including John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Paul Revere and the parents of Benjamin Franklin. This is also a grave marker for the victims of the Boston Massacre.

The burying ground is typically open from 9 AM to 4 PM and is free to enter. When I visited, a man (Jimmy Cole from historybuddies.com) was handing out pamphlets full of information about the grounds. I’m not sure if this is officially allowed, but I found it to be helpful in learning about the history and the location of notable graves. He accepted tips but did not expect them.

This historic burying ground is not to be missed while exploring the Freedom Trail.

King’s Chapel and King’s Chapel Burying Ground are located right down the street from Granbury Burying Ground and Park Street Church. The cemetery is free to visit, but it costs $5 to enter the chapel. The burying ground was the first one in Boston and is the home of John Winthrop, Mary Chilton (the first woman to step off the Mayflower) and others.

I did not pay to enter the chapel but it is one of the oldest churches in Boston and has multiple exhibits to explore.

Behind the King’s Chapel, you’ll find a square, statue and mosaic that mark the location of what was once the Boston Latin School. The school was founded in 1635 and is the oldest public school in America.

Five signers of the Declaration of Independence attended Boston Latin, but one, Benjamin Franklin, actually dropped out. Even so, a statue of Benjamin Franklin marks the location of the former schoolhouse. The school still operates today in other locations around the city.

This stop on the Freedom Trail is just a quick destination to admire. It is the site of the Old Corner Bookstore and is Boston’s oldest commercial building. It was home to the publisher Ticknor and Fields, which produced notable titles such as The Scarlet Letter, Walden and more.

It was originally constructed in 1718 and saved from demolition in 1960. Today, the building is a Chipotle, and if I’m being honest, the giant “Chipotle” signs take away from the historic appeal. At least the leases help pay for other historic preservation projects around the city.

Practically across the street from the Old Corner Bookstore is the Old South Meeting House. This is the location of many important meetings and protests against British actions leading up to the revolution. Most notably, this is where 5,000 men debated the controversial tea tax in 1773. When they could not compromise, Samuel Adams gave the signal to begin the Boston Tea Party. This led to the start of the American Revolution.

The Old South Meeting House is a partner site of the Boston National Historical Park and costs $15 per adult. The same ticket can be used at the Old State House. I opted not to go inside, but there are some interesting exhibits about the history.

The Old State House is the oldest surviving public building in Boston and the next stop on the Freedom Trail. The building was first built in 1713 and served as a center for public life. The Boston Massacre occurred just outside of this building.

It costs $15 to enter and can also be used at the Old South Meeting House. The museum tells of the events that led up to the Revolutionary War.

The Boston Massacre occurred in 1770 when British soldiers fired on a crowd of people, killing five of them. The shots were fired in response to the angry mob throwing stones and snowballs at the soldiers. The image depicting this event was shared widely to garner support for the Patriots.

This event was an important factor in sparking the start of the revolution, as many Bostonians rallied behind the injustice that occurred here.

Today, there is a large marker on the sidewalk where the massacre took place.

Faneuil Hall was a center of commerce and a forum of free speech for many years. It is where the Sons of Liberty discussed their dissent against the British, where Americans first protested the Sugar Act and the site of other important discussions.

Today, it is a marketplace and includes several vendors where you can purchase a souvenir. This is also where you can pick up a National Park site map of the Freedom Trail and learn more about the trail through some National Park exhibits.

Right behind the Faneuil hall Visitor Center, you’ll find Quincy Market. The market first opened in 1823 and is a center for eating and shopping. You can find lobster rolls, clam chowder and much more.

Personally, I found Quincy Market to be way too crowded and overwhelming. The architecture is beautiful, but it gets extremely busy during peak times. With that in mind, I preferred Boston Public Market for lunch.

Boston Public Market is much newer than Quincy Market as it opened in 2015. It includes several New England artisans and a mix of prepared foods, specialty items, crafts and more. I really enjoyed an asiago popover from The Popover Lady for a light lunch.

Boston Public Market also serves fresh pasta, bagels, donuts and more. You’ll likely find it to be a bit more relaxed than Quincy Market.

Dessert in the North End

If you have a sweet tooth, stop to get a cannoli on your way to the next stop on the Freedom Trail. The North End has a large Italian community and is known for its delicious food (more on that later).

After trying cannolis at Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry, I highly recommend Modern Pastry to grab a cannoli. Modern Pastry has been family owned and operated for over 80 years. While they have many pastries to choose from, they’ve really perfected their cannolis!

Continuing on the Freedom Trail, your next stop is the Paul Revere House. This is where Paul Revere lived and it’s the oldest remaining structure in Downtown Boston.

There isn’t much to see outside, so I paid to go inside. You get to walk through a few rooms in the home and learn a bit about the life of Paul Revere.

You cannot take photos inside but there is a courtyard area where you can. At this writing, tickets are $6 per adult. The museum is small but worth a quick visit for the affordable price.

The Old North Church is the oldest church in Boston and is most known as the site where two lanterns were hung to signify that the British were coming during Paul Revere's Midnight Ride.

The church has an affordable entrance fee if you want to explore the interior. The exterior and the park that leads up to the church (Paul Revere Mall) are beautiful either way.

Copp’s Hill will be your last stop before crossing the Charles River into Charlestown! This is the burial site of some important figures who lived on the North End.

It also provides a nice view of the surrounding area. The British used the cemetery as a vantage point to aim their cannons towards Charlestown during the Battle of Bunker Hill.

Tip: Also look for the Skinny House across the street from Copp’s Hill Burying Ground. The house is 10.4 feet at its widest point!

As you continue on the Freedom Trail, the official route will take you over the North Washington Street Bridge. As a slight detour, I recommend walking over the Gridley Locks Footpath instead.

If you’re unfamiliar with a lock, it’s a navigation device to raise and lower boats between different water levels. This lock is still in use as ships navigate between the Charles River and the Boston Harbor.

There is a sidewalk here where you can actually walk over the doors of locks, as long as they are not in use. It feels like you’re not supposed to be there, making it really fun and unique. It’s a great, quick add on to your day walking the Freedom Trail.

The USS Constitution actually has two parts. There are two ships you can visit as part of a National Park Site and a museum about the USS Constitution next door.

Visiting the National Park Site involves going through security. Then, you’ll begin inside a museum and gift shop area before walking outside to explore both the USS Constitution and the USS Cassin Young.

The USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned warship that is still afloat and is still operated by the United States Navy. On board, you can explore three levels and see the cannons, where the soldiers slept and ate, and more. There are steep stairs to descend between the various levels.

The USS Cassin Young was a destroyer from WWII. It’s interesting to compare this much more modern ship to the USS Constitution.

The USS Constitution Museum is right next to the ships and has exhibits covering the history of the USS Constitution. There are some interesting artifacts to see and some interactive areas great for kids. The museum is donation based but they recommend $10-$15 per person.

It’s a bit of a walk to reach our last stop on the Freedom Trail! The Bunker Hill Monument is a half mile away from the USS Constitution.

The Bunker Hill Monument honors the site of the Battle of Bunker Hill, the first major battle in the Revolutionary War.

The monument was built 50 years after the battle and is a 221-foot tall obelisk. To reach the top, you’ll climb 294 steps in a bit of a tight and dark staircase.

It’s neat to reach the top, but the windows are small with glass and screens over them, so you won’t get a fantastic view. But it’s still worth climbing up to see for yourself!

The tower is free to visit and there are some artifacts to view at the base of the tower.

Enjoy some delicious food after a great day of walking! I recommend taking the train or rideshare to get back from Bunker Hill to the North End.

The North End is known as “Boston’s Little Italy” and is home to some of the oldest buildings in the city. If you like Italian food, this is the perfect area to enjoy some delicious food.

One place I recommend is Dino’s Cafe for their 16 inch Italian subs. The restaurant is small and family owned, and you’ll immediately feel welcome when you enter. I was so impressed with their subs and really enjoyed the vegetarian option. If subs aren’t your thing, they have a large menu full of pastas, salads and other Italian specialties. There is something for everyone here!

Other places to visit in the North End for dinner include Regina Pizza for delicious, thin crust pizza, Trattoria Il Panino for traditional Italian food in a cozy setting and Mamma Maria if you’re looking for fine Italian dining.

For dessert, there is no shortage of places to try. Earlier in the day, I recommended stopping at Modern Pastry for a cannoli. Another great place to go is Caffe Vittoria for indulgent coffee and desserts. Enjoy an espresso martini, tiramisu, gelato or one of their other specialties to finish your day.

There are several great hotels close to Boston Commons and the start of the Freedom Trail. These will all be really convenient for this Boston one day itinerary.

The HI Boston Hostel is a modern hostel that offers a mix of shared dorms and private rooms. It’s a great affordable option in the perfect location. This is ideal if you want to make friends during your short Boston trip!

The Revolution Hotel is a trendy and affordable option that has beautiful art and great amenities. They even offer complimentary bikes to explore the city! All of the rooms are private but some include the use of shared bathrooms down the hall.

The Omni Parker House is a historic hotel that is just steps away from stops on the Freedom Trail. This is more high end than the previous two choices. You’ll find a nice restaurant in the lobby and elegant decor throughout the hotel. You can usually find mid-range prices at this 4-star hotel.

Do you need to rent a car in Boston? How is public transportation in Boston? In my experience, the public transportation is very good in Boston and you should not bring a car.

The subway system is relatively fast and easy to navigate, while driving can be very stressful in the downtown area. Rideshare is also easy and quick.

If you are driving to Boston, I recommend staying further outside the city along a train line and taking the train downtown instead of driving. I stayed at this Airbnb in Dorchester and had a great experience (it has plenty of street parking!).

This itinerary includes a lot of time outside, so I recommend avoiding the hottest and coldest months of the year. The best times are either in May and June, or September and October. In September and October, you may also see beautiful fall foliage.

Tip: If you visit near Halloween, check out the beautiful decor on the stoops in Beacon Hill!

I visited in November, and while it was starting to get cold, it still felt like fall and there were few crowds. While there is a risk of snow, November can also be a great time.

If You Have More Time

If you have more than one day in Boston, here are a couple other places to add to your itinerary!

The Boston Tea Party Museum makes a great addition to the Freedom Trail. Visiting the museum is a bit cheesy, but overall it’s really fun. You’ll take a tour from actors in Period clothing and you’ll feel like you are a part of history. The journey begins with an assembly hall meeting and includes throwing tea from the ship into the harbor (it’s attached to a rope).

I was very impressed with the videos played inside of the museum. They were high tech and informative on the history that occurred here. At the end of your tour, you can pay a little extra for a tea tasting that includes the traditional teas from this time period. Overall, I recommend the tea party museum for kids (5 and older) and adults alike.

See the impressive museum where a legendary art heist took place at the Isabella Gardner Museum. The museum was built and curated by the eccentric Isabella Gardner, who worked for years to acquire an incredible collection of art. The museum first opened in 1903 and when Isabella died years later, she stipulated that none of the galleries could be changed in the future.

In 1990, an infamous art heist took place here and 13 works were stolen. I highly recommend watching the Netflix documentary This is a Robbery to learn more. None of the artworks were ever recovered and empty frames remain in the Gardner Museum to this day.

If you visit, be sure to reserve a timed ticket in advance.

Boston is a must visit city in the US if you love history, art and great food. Whether you visit to take a step back in time on the Freedom Trail or to enjoy the delicious Italian food at the North End, there is something for everyone. I hope this one day guide Boston helps you plan your trip!

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In One Day in Boston

A single day in Boston affords the opportunity to sample some experiences unique to the city. You won't have time for full immersion, but you can touch on several singular attractions and destinations. Your focus will be the downtown area, home to the city's oldest and most historic neighborhoods.

Start: Boston Common (Red or Green Line to Park St.), 15 State St. (Orange or Blue Line to State), or Faneuil Hall (Green or Blue Line to Government Center).

1. The Freedom Trail

Boston's signature historic attraction is a 2.5-mile line of red paint and brick laid out at the suggestion of a local journalist in 1958. Following the whole Freedom Trail can consume the better part of a day, but several options that concentrate on the downtown section only take 2 hours or so. Your goal is to cover—at whatever pace suits you and as carefully or as casually as you like—the first two-thirds of the trail, from Boston Common through Faneuil Hall .

Start at the Boston Common Visitor Center with a pamphlet describing the self-guided tour or check out the online resources available from the Freedom Trail's website . If you prefer a guided tour, check the schedule of offerings from  Boston By Foot   and the Freedom Trail Foundation .

Make sure you spare some time for sites along the city's Black Heritage Trail , too. And while you're on the Common, pay a visit to The Embrace , a huge bronze sculpture representing the intertwined arms of civil rights icons Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Coretta Scott King, whose marriage had a pivotal Boston-set chapter early on. 

2. Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market

The indoor-outdoor   Faneuil Hall Marketplace   is a lively—and pretty touristy—spot encompassing shops, restaurants, food stalls, souvenir vendors, and street performers. 

The central building, Quincy Market, has a gigantic food court on its main floor. If you grab something to eat, cross Atlantic Avenue to enjoy your lunch with a glorious view. Stake out a seat overlooking the marina next to Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park. If you'd rather eat indoors, head across the street to Union Oyster House .

3. Paul Revere House

Our favorite Freedom Trail stop is this little 17th-century home overlooking a picturesque cobblestone square. Inside, you'll learn about the silversmith–turned folk hero's home life and his role in the Revolutionary War. 

4. The North End

The Freedom Trail continues here with another famous Paul Revere hangout, the fascinating Old North Church . But there's way more to the neighborhood than 18th-century history. Sometimes referred to as Boston's "Little Italy"—though Bostonions would never use that term—the North End is a great place for wandering around and trying Italian culinary mainstays like cappuccino and cannoli. 

5. Hanover Street

The North End's main drag has plenty of tempting stops for reliably good espresso and cappuccino. To pair your caffeine with a fresh-baked pastry, settle in at  Caffè Vittoria , Mike's Pastry , or  Caffè dello Sport .

6. The Waterfront

In almost any direction, the gorgeous harbor is a short stroll from the North End. As the day winds down, you can take a sightseeing cruise from Long Wharf or Rowes Wharf—though a ferry  ride from Long Wharf to Charlestown and back may be better for your schedule and budget.

If cruises aren't for you or are out of season, explore the New England Aquarium or the Boston Children's Museum . Otherwise, head for the nearby Seaport District (aka the South Boston Waterfront) and visit the Institute of Contemporary Art . It's a 20- to 30-minute stroll or 10-minute cab ride.

Alternatively, you can always abandon the sightseeing after the Paul Revere House and go shopping   in the Back Bay, starting with a stroll along Newbury Street.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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10 Best Things to Do | One Day in Boston

Posted on Last updated: August 21, 2024

Boston is the lively and historic capital of Massachusetts and is an amazing city to visit that combines loads of waterfront activities with shopping, incredible restaurants, unique charm, and of course, history. If you’re looking to spend one day in Boston, this guide will focus on the very best things to do for first-time visitors to help you plan your perfect day in this beautiful New England city .

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

One Day In Boston Suggested Itinerary

1. start your day at the boston public gardens.

Not to be confused with Boston Common, the Public Gardens is a separate park that was actually the first public garden park in the U.S . If you’ve only got one day in Boston, this is a must-see. This park features a beautiful pedestrian bridge with an Instagram-worthy powder blue railing, sculptures, a pond, and of course, plenty of gardens. Be sure to take a ride on the Swan Boat during your visit!

2. Stop For A Coffee & Snack at Tatte Bakery

A one day in Boston must-see is the Tatte Bakery is known for its latte foam art, gorgeous interior, and incredible pastries. Now that they have a few locations sprinkled all over the city, it’s easier than ever to pop in for a quick break to rest your feet, and fuel up with a latte and snack. 

3. Walk The Historic Freedom Trail

If you’re a history buff, you’ll likely want to walk the entire Freedom Trail, which is a 2.5 mile red-bricked trail through the city that connects 16 historically significant attractions. If you’re not a history buff, it’s still worth walking a small portion of the trail just to appreciate the fact that the city’s history dates back to the 1600’s. 

The best place to start the Freedom Trail is at Boston Common, which will be a quick walk from the Public Gardens. From there, you can also see the Massachusetts State House, which features a 23k dome at the very top of the building.

There are plenty of self-guided walking tours you can find online if you wish to continue along the trail. This is an excellent choice for things to see in Boston in one day. To do the whole trail, budget at least two hours.

4. Walk The Charming Streets of Beacon Hill

If you stopped your Freedom Trail tour at Boston Common, you’re just a short walk away from Beacon Hill, Boston’s most charming neighborhood. Many of the streets will be lined with brick and cobblestone and walking down Acorn Street, Boston’s most Instagrammed little side street is a must. 

There are also some really beautiful storefronts in this neighborhood, so be sure to keep an eye out for any window displays that catch your eye, and pop in to do a bit of shopping. This is the perfect spot to look for an  Airbnb in Boston  if you’re spending a weekend in town.

5. Lunch at The Parish Cafe

At this point of your one day in Boston, you’re probably ready for lunch, and one of the best places in Boston for a great lunch is The Parish Cafe , which is located in the Back Bay neighborhood. This place is known for its amazing onion rings and sandwiches, so it’s a good thing you’ve worked up an appetite with all the walking you’ve done so far!

6. Visit The Shops on Newbury Street

A few blocks from The Parish Cafe is Newbury Street, which is regarded as the best shopping destination in Boston, and is definitely worth your time even if you’re sightseeing Boston in one day. Each storefront is housed inside a vintage brownstone building from the 19th century, making it a very unique shopping experience.

Newbury Street is home to mostly high-end brands like Burberry, but you’ll also find some moderate staple stores such as Anthropologie, as well as some independently-owned boutiques. It really has a mix of everything, including restaurants and cafes. 

7. Walk Along The Waterfront Parks

This is one is a MUST DO on things to do in Boston in one day. Boston has a lot of waterfront paths, walkways, and parks to enjoy, so be sure to take some time to head over to the water. A few of the best places for a walk along the water in Boston are the Harbor Walk in the Seaport district, The Esplanade along the Charles River, and the Harbor Walk along the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park. 

If you have an interest in visiting the New England Aquarium during your visit, the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park is very close to the aquarium, so these two sites can easily be combined. 

8. Explore Faneuil Hall & Quincy Marketplace

Faneuil Hall is one of the stops you’ll make if you complete the Freedom Trail, but it’s also worth a visit if you’ve veered off-course. Not only is it packed with history (it was a meeting place where important events such as the Boston Massacre, tea crisis, women’s suffrage, and abolition were passionately debated), but it’s now also an exuberant marketplace with shops along cobblestone, pedestrian-only streets, in addition to still being an active government meeting place.

The Quincy Market food hall is actually the largest in all of New England, so if you’ve got a craving for a cup of chowder to hold you over until dinnertime, or really, any kind of cuisine you could think of, you’ll likely find it here.

9. Grab Dinner at Neptune Oyster

One of the best seafood restaurants in Boston is Neptune Oyster . While they don’t take reservations, it’s worth the wait to eat here. Neptune offers a raw bar in addition to a menu that’s locally-sourced, traditional seafood with a modern twist, and everything is delicious. 

If visiting on a weekend for dinner, it’s a good idea to swing by and put your name in, as the wait times can be up to an hour. Depending on how long the wait is, Faneuil Hall is just a quick 5-minute walk away, and a great way to kill some time while you wait for your table.

10. End Your Day With A Cannoli From Mike’s Pastry

Just a short walk from Neptune Oyster is the famous Mike’s Pastry, which is known for having amazing cannoli. The cannolis are definitely worth venturing over for, but the shop is filled with all kinds of desserts to pick from, so be sure to fill a box to bring home with you (but most definitely eat those cannolis while they’re fresh!). They’re usually open until 10pm, making it a great way to end your Boston one day trip.

Additional Suggestions for a Boston One Day Itinerary

While everything in the list above will provide you with one perfect day in Boston, if you’ve visited before, and are back to explore for another day, or maybe some of those sites just weren’t up your alley? Don’t worry! There’s so much to do in this city with plenty more sites to explore. Here are a few additional things you can check out when visiting Boston for one day to create your perfect itinerary:

1. The Lawn On D

This is a great outdoor park and event space with giant swings that even light up at night. This attraction is only open seasonally, so be sure to check hours before making a special trip.

2. Explore the Museums

There are quite a few museums to explore, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston’s Children Museum, Boston Tea Party & Ships Museum , and the Museum of Science. And of course, the New England Aquarium. 

The Isabella Gardner Museum is not only a museum that showcases more than 7,500 paintings, but also an incredible example of architecture with grounds that are beautiful enough to warrant a visit on their own. This is a more unique option to add to your one day in Boston itinerary.

3. Go On a Sailing Boat Tour

There are so many sailing and boat tours that leave from Boston’s harbor, including whale-watching tours, so if you’re looking to get out onto the water, this is a great city to do that. This is also a great activity if you’re going to Cape Cod with the family.

Getting Around Boston

Like any major city, Boston has an extensive public transit system that’s easy to navigate, and will get you anywhere you want to go. For one day in Boston, it’s best to get the 1-day transit pass if you know you’ll be relying on public transit for the entire day. 

Boston is also very walkable, and sometimes, it’s quicker and easier to just walk. Google Maps will be your friend here. Uber and Lyft are also both easily accessible in the city, and are the most convenient option. 

Getting To Boston

Since this post is all about one day in Boston, it’s probably safe to assume you’re driving in. Driving in Boston is pretty easy, and like any city, it starts to get more congested as you enter downtown. Plug in Google Maps, and you’re good to go.

If you need to fly in, and you’re only spending one day in Boston as part of a larger trip, Boston Logan International Airport is the biggest airport that serves the city, and because it’s a major hub, you can often find great deals on flights. From the airport, you can either opt for rideshare to get downtown, or take the subway, bus, or even water taxi.

Parking In Boston

If you drive into the city, you’ll definitely want to park your car for the day, and get around on foot or with public transit and/or rideshare. To make your day as stress-free as possible, it’s a really good idea to research parking ahead of time, and possibly even make your reservation before you arrive. A couple of great websites to check out to plan for parking in Boston are Best Parking and Spot Hero. You should expect to pay anywhere from $12-$35 to park for the day, depending on the lot or garage you choose.

Safety In Boston

Boston is a very safe city, especially if you stick to the areas suggested in this post. You’ll just want to practice a normal amount of caution and be aware of your surroundings. This is a great city to visit for female solo travelers . 

Final Thoughts

Boston is such a fun city to visit, and because it’s easily walkable, you can really pack a lot in and see most of the major sites in a short amount of time. Of course, it’s worth spending a few days or more to appreciate everything the city has to offer, but seeing Boston in one day is absolutely worth your time.

If you enjoyed this post, take a look a these Visiting Cape Cod For The First Time and What To Do on Cape Anne, MA by Samantha Hamilton from New England Wanderlust .

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Author’s Bio:

Samantha Hamilton is a travel blogger based in Upstate New York , and covers destinations around New England and the Northeast. With a focus on coastal regions, her mission is to showcase the natural beauty and history in New England, and show people that you don’t have to travel far to see incredible things. When not exploring the Northeast, she also travels the world both solo, and with her husband. Follow her on Instagram and YouTube .

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

One Day In Boston: Ultimate Guide To Top City Highlights

Got time for only one day in Boston? Not to worry, I’ve got you covered on the best things to see and do, so you can make the most of your limited time in my wonderful city.

An Introduction To Spending One Day In Boston

Welcome to Boston, my hometown and the city where history mingles with modernity in the most delightful way. We’re about to head on an adventure through the heart of Boston, exploring everything from the stories etched in the Freedom Trail to the trendy vibes of Newbury Street.

I’ve lived in Boston and the surrounding areas for my entire life, so I’m an expert on how to spend your time here. You’re going to find out exactly what makes Boston worth visiting . So, lace up your walking shoes and grab a cup of Dunkin’ as we uncover the secrets of this wicked awesome city, one cobblestone at a time.

At the end of this article I’ve compiled various itineraries to help you plan your one day in Boston. It doesn’t matter if you’re a history buff, a sports fanatic, a foodie, or something else entirely, there’s an itinerary to fit your style. Or, you can mix and match ideas to create your own one-of-a-kind adventure in Boston.

Walk The Freedom Trail

In the heart of Boston, there exists a 2.5 mile long brick pathway that transports you back in time to when our Founding Fathers ignited the flames of the Revolution. It’s called The Freedom Trail, and it connects 16 historical sites that played a pivotal role in the birth of our nation.

You can walk this pathway yourself, but I highly recommend getting a Freedom Trail guided tour instead. The tour guides help to bring to life the remarkable and inspiring stories that surround the city, and you get a much deeper understanding of the history and legends that stem from Boston.

Some of the stops on the Freedom Trail are below, and are perfect for visiting during your one day in Boston.

The State House

A noteworthy destination for your one day in Boston itinerary is the Massachusetts State House, the seat of the MA government since 1798. Sitting atop historic Beacon Hill, this architectural marvel is like a living time capsule, showcasing the elegance of Federal-style design.

It’s not just about admiring the stunning golden dome – although that’s Instagram-worthy for sure! It’s a chance to peek into our nation’s past, wander the corridors where history was shaped, and soak in the rich culture of the city.

Here’s a little fun fact for you: Sam Adams himself laid the cornerstone back in 1795. Plus, Paul Revere coppered the dome in 1802, giving it that brilliant gleam it’s got today.

You can take free walking tours of the State House between 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM.

Granary Burying Ground

Tucked away in the heart of the city, the Granary Burying Ground is like a who’s-who of American history. Established way back in 1660, some of the most notable names of the American Revolution are laid to rest here.

You can see the graves of Founding Fathers like John Hancock, Paul Revere, Sam Adams, James Otis, and so many more.

So, if you love history as much as I do, a stroll through the Granary Burying Ground is a must during your one day in Boston. Take your time, pay your respects, and soak up the vibes of this remarkable piece of Boston’s story.

The Granary Burying Ground is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The Paul Revere House

Located in the North End, the Paul Revere House is not your typical museum experience; it’s a journey through time, back to the 18th century when cobblestone streets were the norm. Paul Revere, the midnight rider who made ‘The British are coming!’ famous, called this place home, and it’s like a time capsule back to his era.

As you step inside, you’re greeted by low ceilings, creaky wooden floors, and rooms that whisper stories of a time long gone. It’s not a sprawling mansion by any means, but that’s the beauty of it – it’s an authentic snapshot of colonial life.

You’ll see where Revere’s family cooked meals, where they gathered in the evening, and even where Paul himself crafted silverware, bowls, and tea sets for some of Boston’s richest members. The air is thick with history here, and you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the everyday people who shaped our nation.

The Paul Revere House is open daily (except major holidays) from 10:00 AM – 5:15 PM.

Admission tickets cost $6 for adults, and $1 for children ages 5-17.

Old South Meeting House

The Old South Meeting House, situated right on the Freedom Trail, is a time capsule of revolutionary history that’ll send shivers down your spine. You see, this isn’t just your typical old church with a steeple – it’s where the very foundations of American independence were laid.

As you step inside, you can almost hear the echoes of impassioned debates, the rallying cries for liberty, and the fervor of a people yearning for freedom. It was within these hallowed walls that the plans for the Boston Tea Party were hatched – the same legendary event that left the harbor awash with tea in 1773.

Standing in the very space where those decisions were made, you can’t help but feel a connection to the brave souls who dared to defy tyranny.

The Old South Meeting House remains an important hub for intellectual engagement and creative expression. It hosts a wide array of public forums, debates, concerts, and theatrical performances throughout the year.

The “Voices of Protest” exhibit provides a compelling narrative of the Old South Meeting House’s rich history and is definitely a must-see during your one day in Boston.

The Old South Meeting House is open daily (except major holidays) from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

An admission ticket gets you into both the Old South Meeting House and the Old State House. Adults cost $15, children under 12 cost $8. Buy Your Ticket Now.

The Old State House / Site of the Boston Massacre

If you’ve only got one day in Boston, you have to stop by the Old State House. This building has been a front-row witness to some of Boston’s most electrifying moments. Built in 1713, this historic gem served as the heart of government in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Back then, it was known as the ‘Town House,’ but things were about to get revolutionary.

In the shadow of this very building in 1770, the Boston Massacre sent shockwaves through history. Right here, tensions boiled over, leading to a deadly clash between colonists and British soldiers. Eyewitness accounts were collected inside the Old State House in the days that followed. Today, a commemorative plaque rests in the ground right where it all happened.

But that’s not all. On July 18, 1776, the balcony echoed with the words of the Declaration of Independence, as it was read for the first time in Boston. The Old State House then went on to become the inaugural capitol of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts until 1798.

Now, fast forward to today, and you are standing in front of the oldest surviving public building in Boston. It’s not just a historic relic; it’s a living testament to the courage, passion, and resilience of the people who shaped our nation.

The Old State House is open daily (except major holidays) from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Faneuil Hall / Quincy Market

You absolutely should make Faneuil Hall a must-see stop during your one day in Boston adventure. This lively marketplace is located right in the heart of the city, and provides a window into Boston’s past and present.

Faneuil Hall itself takes you back to the days when powdered wigs were all the rage and revolution was in the air. Built in 1742, it’s witnessed countless moments that shaped America’s history. It was here that passionate patriots like Samuel Adams and James Otis delivered fiery speeches that fueled the flames of the American Revolution.

But Faneuil Hall isn’t just about looking back. It’s also a thriving marketplace where you can shop, dine, and soak up Boston’s lively atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, artisanal crafts, or street performances that leave you in awe, you can find it all here.

There are dozens of vendors, restaurants, and street performers all throughout this shopping center. It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir from your trip. Maybe some Boston gear, sports memorabilia, Christmas ornaments, jewelry, and other fantastic trinkets. There’s also a huge variety of local treats you can taste, from Lobster Rolls and Chowder to Ice Cream and Tacos, and so much more.

Take A Walk Along The Charles River

If you only have one day in Boston you absolutely must take a walk along the Charles River. This scenic stroll offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a peaceful interlude within Boston’s urban landscape.

As you walk along the river, you encounter a dynamic blend of local life. Cyclists whiz by, joggers set their own pace, and people from all walks of life gather to bask in the natural beauty.

The Esplanade is a beloved urban oasis nestled along the banks of the Charles. It offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and cultural experiences. There are playgrounds, outdoor exercise equipment, docks, fields, and more.

This serene setting is also home to the famous Hatch Shell, a hub for summer concerts and cultural events. This makes it an ideal spot to catch some open-air entertainment during your visit.

Experience A Duck Tour

The Boston Duck Tours is an absolute must for your one-day adventure in this incredible city. Imagine hopping into an authentic, renovated World War II amphibious vehicle affectionately known as a “Duck.” You are in for a comprehensive tour of Boston like no other.

As your journey begins, you cruise past iconic Boston landmarks. See Boston Common, Quincy Market, and the TD Garden, home to the Boston Celtics. Your tour guide, known as a ConDUCKtor®, is your lively narrator, filling your journey with fascinating stories about Boston’s history and famous sites.

But here’s where things get extra exciting – your DUCK doesn’t just stay on land. It’s time for a splashdown into the Charles River. Yes, you heard that right! You transition from the city streets to the serene waters, with breathtaking views of Boston from a whole new angle.

What makes the Duck Tours even more special is the blend of entertainment and education. Your ConDUCKtor® infuses history with humor, ensuring you not only learn fascinating facts but also have a blast along the way. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family with kids in tow, or simply seeking a unique Boston experience, the Duck Tours offer it all.

Check Duck Tour prices now.

Eat At Boston’s Oldest Restaurant

If you are spending one day in Boston, you’re going to need to eat, that’s a given. The absolute number one must-try place is the Union Oyster House. It is not only the oldest restaurant in Boston, but it is also the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the entire US.

The Union Oyster House is renowned for its seafood, and you won’t find fresher clam chowder or lobster anywhere else in the city. Whether you’re savoring their famous clam chowder, indulging in a lobster roll, or sipping on a classic New England cocktail, each bite is a taste of history.

But it’s not just about the food; it’s also about the atmosphere. You’ll dine in cozy wooden booths that have hosted countless patrons over the centuries. Some of the legendary figures that have dined here include Presidents Roosevelt, Kennedy, and Clinton; actors like Billy Crystal and Robin Williams; athletes such as Larry Bird and Sammy Sosa; and so many more.

Go Shopping On Newbury Street

Newbury Street is where Boston’s sophistication meets its creative spirit. It’s a place to indulge in retail therapy, savor delicious cuisine, and lose yourself in the city’s artistic energy. It’s the perfect location to spend your one day in Boston.

Picture a charming tree-lined boulevard in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood. That’s Newbury Street for you – a trendy shopping haven that blends old-world charm with a cosmopolitan vibe.

As you wander along its historic brownstone-lined sidewalks, a mix of high-end boutiques, fashionable shops, fabulous salons, art galleries, and quaint cafes surround you. You can find all manner of items here, from trendy apparel and accessories to glittery jewelry to home decor and more.

But it’s not just about shopping; it’s also about savoring life’s pleasures. Newbury Street is dotted with delightful eateries, perfect for a coffee break, a leisurely brunch, or a gourmet dinner. Sidewalk cafes beckon with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. It’s an ideal spot to people-watch and soak in the local ambiance.

Explore “Little Italy” – Boston’s North End

As you step into the North End, you might feel like you’ve been transported to a little slice of Italy right in the heart of Boston. This neighborhood is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and an unmistakable Old World ambiance.

But what truly makes the North End shine is its culinary scene. This neighborhood is synonymous with delectable Italian cuisine. From pizza joints to cozy trattorias, you can indulge in some of the most mouthwatering Italian dishes outside of Italy.

You could also take a mouthwatering North End Food Tour to taste delicious samples of meats, cheeses, pizza, and pastries, all while learning about the history of the area.

Relax For One Day In Boston Common

Boston Common is America’s oldest public park, dating back to 1634. As you enter, you find yourself surrounded by lush lawns, leafy trees, and a picturesque pond where swan boats gracefully glide.

Boston Common was very important for early colonists. It was a gathering place, a site for public hangings, and a training ground for Revolutionary War soldiers. Now you can visit the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, a towering tribute to those who served in the Civil War.

Today, locals and visitors alike come here to unwind. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic, a game of catch, or simply lounging on the grass with a good book. In the winter, the Common transforms into a wonderland with ice-skating on Frog Pond, adding a touch of magic to the city.

Take A Swan Boat Ride

While you’re in the Common, be sure to take a Swan Boat ride. These picturesque Swan Boats have been a beloved tradition in Boston since 1877. They’re a delightful way to soak in the beauty of the city while enjoying a touch of nostalgia.

Each Swan Boat is adorned with a charming white swan sculpture and they’re pedal-powered. The skilled operators steer the boats with their feet – a technique that’s been passed down through generations.

You purchase your tickets at the dock prior to boarding the boat. The ride lasts about 15 minutes. Note that the Swan Boats do not operate on very hot days, in the rain, or if it’s very windy.

The Swan Boat season runs from April until around Labor Day, and between the hours of 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM

Tickets cost $4.50 for adults and $3 for children ages 2-15.

Cheer On The Red Sox At Fenway Park

If you’re spending one day in Boston, visiting Fenway Park should be at the top of your list. It’s been the beloved home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912, making it the oldest active Major League Baseball stadium in the country. Also, it’s where my husband took me on our first date, so it holds an even more special place in my heart.

The atmosphere at Fenway is absolutely electric. The sight of the famous Green Monster is enough to send shivers down any baseball lover’s spine. The roar of the crowd, the crack of the bat, and the seventh-inning stretch are all part of the Fenway experience that captures the essence of the game.

Fenway Park is like a living museum of baseball history. You can even take a guided Fenway Park tour to learn about this rich history, explore the player’s locker rooms, and soak in the nostalgia.

Check Fenway Park tour prices now.

Check Out One Of The Many Boston Museums

Boston is an absolute treasure trove of museums. There are dozens to choose from, spanning across the arts, history, science, and more. Some of my favorites are below.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: A true gem, this museum is as famous for its art as it is for its enchanting Venetian-style palace. Explore the eclectic collection of Isabella Stewart Gardner, including priceless artworks by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Degas.

Museum of Fine Arts (MFA): If you’re an art enthusiast, the MFA is a must-visit. It houses an extensive collection spanning various eras and cultures, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Impressionist masterpieces

Museum of Science: Perfect for families and science enthusiasts, this museum offers interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and an awe-inspiring planetarium. Explore everything from human biology to the mysteries of the cosmos.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: Step back in time and relive a pivotal moment in American history. Dress up as a colonial and toss tea into Boston Harbor, and then explore interactive exhibits about the Boston Tea Party. Check Admission Price Now.

The Boston Children’s Museum: Perfect for families, this museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities designed to engage young minds. Kids can explore everything from a construction zone to a Japanese house.

Catch A Game Or Concert At The Boston Garden

If you’ve got one day in Boston and you’re up for some good vibes, this is the spot you can’t miss. The TD Garden isn’t your run-of-the-mill arena – it’s home to the Boston Celtics and the Boston Bruins. The moment you step inside you feel the excitement in the air.

The TD Garden also hosts some of the hottest concerts and events in town. From superstar musicians to comedy shows that’ll leave your sides hurting, this place has seen it all.

I’ve had the pleasure of seeing tons of entertainment at the Garden and can tell you it’s definitely something you should experience for yourself.

Itineraries For One Day In Boston

Below I’ve compiled a few different itineraries that you could use to guide how you spend your one day in Boston. Feel free to mix and match the stops and ideas to create your own perfect day.

One Day In Boston Itinerary For History Lovers

The Freedom Trail : Start your day by walking part of the iconic Freedom Trail. Visit Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, and Park Street Church to trace the city’s revolutionary roots.

Granary Burying Ground : Pay your respects at the Granary Burying Ground, the final resting place of notable figures like Paul Revere and John Hancock.

Faneuil Hall : Enjoy lunch at Quincy Market within Faneuil Hall, where revolutionaries once gathered for impassioned speeches.

Paul Revere House : Visit the Paul Revere House in the North End, the actual home of the famous patriot, and learn about his midnight ride.

Old North Church : Explore the Old North Church, where lanterns were hung to signal Revere’s ride. It’s a key stop on the Freedom Trail.

Dinner at Union Oyster House : Conclude your day with dinner at the Union Oyster House, a historic restaurant frequented by historic figures like Daniel Webster.

One Day In Boston Itinerary For Sports Fans

Fenway Park Tour : Start your day with a guided tour of Fenway Park , home of the Boston Red Sox. Explore the historic stadium and its iconic “Green Monster.”

Lunch at Bleacher Bar : Enjoy lunch at the Bleacher Bar, located beneath the bleachers of Fenway Park. Here you can actually watch the game through a window in the outfield wall!

TD Garden Tour : Head to the TD Garden for a tour of the home venues of the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins. Learn about the arena’s history.

Boston Sports Museum : Visit the Boston Sports Museum, located within the TD Garden. Explore exhibits highlighting the city’s sports legends.

Catch a Game : If there’s a game scheduled, attend a Boston Celtics or Boston Bruins game at the TD Garden.

One Day In Boston Itinerary For Arts & Culture Enthusiasts

Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) : Begin your day with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, home to an extensive collection of art from various eras and cultures.

Café G at the MFA : Enjoy lunch at Café G within the museum, offering a delightful dining experience surrounded by art.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum : Head to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, known for its stunning courtyard and eclectic art collection.

Fenway Studios : Visit the Fenway Studios, a historic artists’ building where you can see working artists’ studios and galleries.

Dinner on Newbury Street : Have dinner at one of the eateries on Newbury Street, Boston’s chic shopping and dining destination.

One Day In Boston Itinerary For Shopaholics

Newbury Street : Start your shopping spree on Newbury Street, known for its upscale boutiques and designer stores.

Lunch on Newbury Street : Enjoy lunch at one of the stylish cafes or restaurants on Newbury Street.

SoWa Open Market : Continue your day at the SoWa Open Market, a hub for artisans, craftspeople, and specialty food vendors.

Dinner at SoWa: Dine at one of the many award winning eateries in the South End. Choose from Mediterranean, seafood, steakhouses, Mexican, Cambodian & French, Irish pubs, and more.

One Day In Boston Itinerary For Families

New England Aquarium : Begin your day at the New England Aquarium, where kids can marvel at marine life, including penguins and sea turtles.

Quincy Market : Have lunch at Quincy Market, offering a variety of family-friendly food options.

Swan Boat Rides : Take a leisurely ride on the iconic Swan Boats in the Boston Public Garden. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.

Boston Children’s Museum : Visit the Boston Children’s Museum, filled with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids of all ages.

Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe : Head to the Hard Rock Cafe for dinner, where kids can enjoy a rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere.

One Day In Boston Itinerary For Foodies

Boston Public Market : Start your culinary adventure at the Boston Public Market. Here you can savor artisanal foods and beverages from local vendors.

Union Square Donuts : Enjoy gourmet donuts from Union Square Donuts, known for their inventive flavors and fresh ingredients.

North End Food Tour : Explore the North End, Boston’s Italian neighborhood, on a North End food tour . Sample cannoli, fresh pasta, and other Italian delicacies.

Fenway Park Fare : If there’s a game, experience the unique food offerings at Fenway Park, like Fenway Franks and lobster rolls.

Dinner in the Seaport District : Continue your day with dinner at one of the trendy waterfront restaurants in the Seaport District.

Craft Cocktails at Drink : Conclude your culinary journey at Drink, a unique bar. Here the bartenders craft personalized cocktails based on your preferences.

Where To Stay For One Day In Boston

Below, I’ve listed a few suggestions in various neighborhoods, if you need to grab a hotel for the night. These hotels are all top rated and are excellent choices for spending one day in Boston.

Boston’s Back Bay is synonymous with elegance and charm. It’s known for its tree-lined streets, Victorian brownstones, and high-end shopping along Newbury Street. It’s a picturesque neighborhood nestled between the Charles River and Boston Common.

• The Newbury Boston – 1 Newbury Street
• The Lenox – 61 Exeter Street
• The Four Seasons – 1 Dalton Street

Fenway/Kenmore

The Fenway/Kenmore area is where you’ll find Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox. This neighborhood boasts not only baseball but also cultural institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts.

• The Verb Hotel – 1271 Boylston Street (see my complete The Verb hotel review here!)
• Hotel Commonwealth – 500 Commonwealth Ave
• Residence Inn by Marriott – 125 Brookline Ave

The North End is Boston’s Italian enclave, where cobblestone streets lead you to authentic trattorias, bakeries, and the historic Old North Church. It’s a neighborhood that seamlessly blends Old World charm with modern city living.

• Courtyard Boston – 107 Beverly Street

Seaport District

The Seaport District has emerged as Boston’s contemporary playground, characterized by its sleek architecture and waterfront views. Here, innovation, art, and culinary delights come together in a captivating fusion.

• Seaport Hotel – 1 Seaport Lane
• Hyatt Place Boston – 295 Northern Ave
• Omni Boston Hotel – 450 Summer Street

Boston’s South End is celebrated for its Victorian architecture, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary experiences. It’s a cultural melting pot with a unique flair.

• Revolution Hotel – 40 Berkeley Street
• Staypineapple – 26 Chandler Street

Additional Boston Resources and Information

Dive deeper into the heart of the city by exploring our other Boston-related blog pages. Whether you’re seeking more travel inspiration, historical insights, or insider tips for your Boston adventure, these links will be your gateway to uncovering the best of my hometown.

Is The Freedom Trail Guided Tour Worth It?

The 10 Best Boston Food Tours To Take

The Best 10 Salem Witch Tours To Take

Everything You Need To Know About Taking A Fenway Park Tour

Backstage At The Verb Hotel Boston Review

Is Boston Worth Visiting? 16 Reasons To Go Right Now

The Best Whale Watching In Massachusetts

The Best Time To Visit Boston

The Best Boston Sightseeing Tours To Take

Hi there! My name is Rachel, and I'm a travel enthusiast, writer, and lifelong learner. With over 16 years of marriage and two amazing kids, I've learned that traveling is one of the best ways to bond and create lasting memories with loved ones. I'll share everything I learn, from tips and tricks to specific product and business reviews, so you can make memories around the world too!

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1-Day Old Town Trolley Tour

1234 reviews

Old Town Trolley Tours of Boston 4.3

• Trolley Stops

In order to give you a real taste of the city, our Hop On Hop Off Boston Tour covers all the major areas including Downtown, Beacon Hill, Back Bay, the Theater District, and the Waterfront District.

Hop aboard one of our trolleys and you’ll experience Transportainment ® , a delightful combination of transportation and entertainment.

Embark on an exhilarating adventure through the breathtaking streets of Boston with Old Town Trolley Tours! For over 40 years, our orange and green trolleys have delighted visitors with our unique blend of transportation and entertainment – we call it Transportainment®! Whether rain or shine, our cozy enclosed trolleys offer double-decker heights for an unbeatable view. Get ready to immerse yourself in history and witness the wonders of America’s Birthplace, the Cradle of Liberty, like never before. Join us on this patriotic journey and prepare to be amazed!

• 1 day of free unlimited re-boarding*
• Celebrating 40 Years as Boston's Original Storyteller!
• $10 off Historic Harbor Cruise*
• $10 off Ghosts & Gravestones Tour*
• $6 off admission to Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum*
• 50% off admission at The Sports Museum*
• “One of the 10 best hop-on hop-off tours in the world” - Forbes
• More than 100 points of interest
• 100% satisfaction guarantee
• Boston’s largest trolley fleet with the most frequent pickup service
• Ride up high without worrying about the weather
• Attraction tickets do not have to be used on the same day

Boston Old Town Trolley Tours

Sit back and let our expert conductors show you the Best of Boston with Old Town Trolley. Join us as we turn back the pages of history and relive the bustling seaport days of colonial Boston. Feel the drama of revolution in America!

Old Town Trolley Tours makes 18 stops including the Historic North End, North Station, Boston Convention & Exposition Center, and the Seaport District. Explore the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, and Copp’s Hill Burying Grounds in the North End.

Enjoy discounts* on the following:

$6 off boston tea party ships & museum.

The Boston Tea Party was “the single most important event leading up to the American Revolution.” It is dedicated to telling the story of that fateful night of December 16, 1773. By combining cutting edge interactive technology with live historical performances, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum offers an experience like no other.

$10 off Historic Harbor Cruise

Cruise along Boston’s inner and outer harbor and see historic landmarks. Learn about the past, present and future of Boston’s historic harbor. Includes tales of famous revolutionary battles, the nation’s oldest continuously manned lighthouse, islands of the outer harbor and Boston as a working industrial port.

$10 off Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

Walk amongst the dead in burying grounds nearly four hundred years old, hear stories of those whose mortal remains lie beneath your feet, and listen to tales of many of the sordid practices that went along with them.

50% off admission at The Sports Museum

Enjoy a trip through sporting history and see lots of exciting memorabilia, medals, and much more up close. A guide will lead you to Level 3 of TD Garden to give your tour group a behind-the-scenes look and take you up to Level 9 to see the championship banners and a birds-eye view of the arena. Your guided tour will last approximately one hour.

Old Town Trolley Stops in Boston

Hop on and off at any of our 18 convenient stops.

1. Faneuil Hall 2. Historic North End 3. USS Constitution and Museum 4. North Station / TD Garden 5. Old State House 6. Beacon Hill / Antique Row 7. Cheers Bar 8. Prudential Center 9. Christian Science Plaza / Symphony Hall 10. Copley Place Mall 11. Copley Square / Back Bay 12. Old Town Trolley Welcome Center / Theater District 13. New State House / Boston Common 14. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum 15. Boston Convention Center 16. Massport / Black Falcon Cruise Ship Terminal 17. Boston Fish Pier 18. South Station

Booth Locations

Boston Waterfront/New England Aquarium Depot – Stop #1 200 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA 02109 See in Google Maps

Waterfront Kiosk – Stop #1 Around the corner from our Stop #1 Old Atlantic Avenue, Boston, 02109 See in Google Maps

Marriott Copley Tour and Travel Desk – Stop #11 110 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02116 See in Google Maps

Old Town Trolley Welcome Center – Stop #12 3 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116 See in Google Maps

Old Town Trolley Tours

Tour length: 2 hours.

Hours: April – October: 9am – 5pm. November – March: 9am – 4pm.

Historic Harbor Cruise

Check availability by calling 1-877-SEE-WHALE (733-9425) or 617-227-4321.

Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

Go to  Boston Ghosts & Gravestones Schedule .

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Go to  Boston Tea Party Ships Schedule .

Phone: (866) 955-0667

*Applies to standard trolley pass. Pass is non-transferable. Other restrictions may apply. Pass discounts have no cash value and are not refundable and non-transferable. Historic Harbor Cruise and Boston Summer Nights Tour & Charles River Cruise operate seasonally. Sports Museum: Must be redeemed within 48 hours from the day your Old Town Trolley Tour was taken. Please present your Trolley receipt at Sports Museum Information Desk. No need to book in advance. Check hours of operations and tour times. May not be combined with any other promos, offers or discounts. 5% city fee charged at time of purchase.

Top 5 Things To Do This Columbus Day Weekend In Boston & Beyond

From a fall music festival on the island of Nantucket to Oceans & Oysters and Boston's spookiest haunted festival, these are the best things to do this holiday weekend!

Columbus Day weekend in Boston might be a Bostonian’s favorite two weeks of the year, not just because of our long weekend, but also because the region’s weather is indisputably pleasant—a terribly rare circumstance for New England. So, we’ve rounded up our favorite activities to get out there and enjoy the splendid crisp autumn air that coincides with this mid-October holiday weekend!

When is Columbus Day weekend?

Columbus Day falls on Monday, October 14, 2024. Columbus Day Weekend thus begins on Friday, October 11, and runs through Monday, October 14.

Columbus Day Weekend in Boston events:

We’ve rounded up some of the most exciting events to do in Boston and beyond this upcoming holiday weekend!

1. Go on a spooktacular outdoor mystery picnic

Columbus Day weekend is just about one week before Boston slowly reaches peak foliage. Enjoy an outdoor picnic (mystery edition) and scavenger hunt hybrid to unlock the destination of your picnic in a bed of vibrant leaves.

2. Have a shucking good time at an oceanfront oyster festival on the Vineyard

The inaugural Oceans & Oysters festival debuts at The Winnetu Oceanside Resort this year, recently ranked the best resort in New England . Enjoy a splendid waterfront clambake, shucking class and more in this can’t-miss event! Oceans & Oysters is all-weekend from October 11-14, guests can opt for tickets to an individual event or try the package deal!

3. Enjoy a fall flannel jam festival in Marshfield and on the island of Nantucket

Levitate’s annual Fall Flannel Jam music festival aligns perfectly with Columbus Day weekend. The festival begins in Marshfield, Massachusetts on October 12 before it heads to Nantucket on October 14. Sport your best flannel and get ready to rock!

Check out The Winnetu’s dual-island adventure to enjoy Oceans & Oysters on the Vineyard and sail over to Nantucket for Levitate the next day!

4. Get spooked at this massive haunted festival in the city

Enjoy some local frills and thrills with the ongoing Wicked Haunt Fest —Boston’s first large-scale Halloween festival! Held outdoors in Charlestown, the festival offers family-friendly fun like pumpkin painting and trick-or-treating in addition to 3 scary haunted houses.

5. Go on a New England fall foliage road trip

Mid-October is some of the best time to enjoy fall foliage in New England ! The northern part of the region peaks from late September, while the rest of the region follows, with Connecticut and the islands turning in early November. Check out some of our fall foliage guides below for an idyllic day trip or overnight voyage!

• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• Rhode Island

Happy Columbus Day weekend, Boston!

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Eight Cape Cod veterans took a one-day trip to Washington, D.C. Here's why.

Ervin “Tootsie” Russell was one of eight Cape Cod Vietnam War veterans to take part in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. on Sunday, Sept. 15. One of the most important things he did when he reached the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was make a charcoal etching of his friend’s name: Carlos Rose. Rose served with Russell in Vietnam and was killed in the war.

The Cape veterans were part of a group of 60 New England veterans that traveled on the Honor Flight out of Boston, according to Barbara-Anne Foley, programs manager for the Cape and Islands Veterans Outreach Center . The veterans were accompanied by 60 guardians who are volunteers always within arm’s reach.

The group visited the World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Air Force and Vietnam Women's memorials during their one-day trip.  

At Arlington National Cemetery , veterans in wheelchairs were put close to the guard's path. Instead of the steady, sharp click of his boot as he marked out his paces, the guard scuffed one boot to pay respect to the veterans, said Foley, who served as a guardian on the trip. 

“It was very impressive,” she said. 

Foley saw a veteran at the Korean War Veterans Memorial who was leaning over at the Wall of Remembrance , where the names of those who died are etched into stone. She asked if he was okay.   

"He pointed to a name and said, 'I didn’t know he was here,'” Foley said in a phone interview Tuesday, Sept. 17.

When he picked his head back up, she could tell he’d been crying. 

“These are veterans who were there,” Foley said. “They were looking at the names of people who didn’t make it home. They're proud of their service.” 

Honor Flight Network is a national nonprofit that has flown more than 300,000 veterans to Washington, D.C. since its inception in 2005. The flights bring veterans to visit the memorials built to commemorate their service and sacrifice. 

Denise Coffey writes about business, tourism and issues impacting the Cape’s residents and visitors. Contact her at [email protected] .    

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