Boston, Massachusetts — where cobblestone streets meet revolutionary stories, and seafood meets soul. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a week-long city break, Boston offers a perfect blend of history, flavor, and coastal adventure. From the golden dome of the Massachusetts State House to the buzzing markets and waterfront walks, here are 27 of the best things to do in Boston for your itinerary.
1. Visit the Massachusetts State House
Crowned with a 23.5-karat gold dome, the Massachusetts State House is one of Boston’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1798, this stately building sits proudly on Beacon Hill. Free guided tours give visitors a peek into its architecture and centuries of state history.
2. Savor Boston’s Seafood Scene
You can’t leave Boston without trying its legendary lobster rolls. The city’s food trucks and markets are brimming with seafood delights — lobster nachos, chowder, oysters, and clam cakes. Don’t forget the Boston baked beans (sweetened with molasses) and cannoli from the North End for dessert.
3. Explore the New England Aquarium
Located at the waterfront, the New England Aquarium is a must-visit for families and ocean lovers. Admission starts at around US$32, but if you plan to visit multiple attractions, grab a CityPASS to save on popular sites like the Museum of Science and Franklin Park Zoo.
4. Take a Boston Harbor Islands Cruise
Hop on a ferry from Long Wharf and explore the Boston Harbor Islands. With 34 islands and peninsulas, you’ll find scenic trails, beaches, and even Fort Warren on George’s Island. Spectacle Island is particularly popular for its views and nature walks.
5. Catch a Game at Fenway Park
Home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is the oldest active Major League Baseball stadium in America, dating back to 1912. Take a tour or catch a game to experience the famous Green Monster and the city’s electric sports energy.
6. Relive History at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Step back to December 16, 1773 — when American colonists threw British tea into the harbor in protest. At this interactive museum, you can toss tea crates into the water yourself and explore fascinating exhibits on the revolution that followed.
7. Walk the Atlantic Wharf
Once a bustling shipping area, the Atlantic Wharf is now a modern development with sleek architecture, restaurants, and waterfront views. It’s a perfect blend of Boston’s maritime past and its vibrant present.
8. Relax at Boston Common
America’s oldest public park, Boston Common has been welcoming visitors since 1634. Stroll through its 50 acres of ponds and gardens, see the George Washington statue, or simply sit on a bench to watch the world go by.
9. Shop and Stroll Along Newbury Street
Lined with Victorian brownstones, Newbury Street offers an elegant mix of boutiques, cafés, and galleries. Located in Back Bay, it’s one of the city’s most picturesque shopping avenues — and the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.
10. Discover Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market
This historic marketplace has been a Boston landmark since 1742. Today, it’s filled with food stalls, souvenir shops, and street performers. Don’t miss Quincy Market’s desserts — it’s a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth.
11. Experience Little Italy in the North End
The North End, Boston’s Little Italy, is full of charm and flavor. Visit Paul Revere’s house, then wander down Hanover Street for Neapolitan pizza, espresso, and freshly filled cannoli. At night, the area comes alive with music and laughter.
12. Taste the Culture in Chinatown
Boston’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in the U.S. From dim sum brunches to Lunar New Year festivities, it’s a cultural feast with authentic Chinese, Vietnamese, and Taiwanese flavors.
13. Ride the Famous Duck Tour
Climb aboard Boston’s “Duck” — an amphibious World War II-style vehicle that cruises the city streets before plunging into the Charles River. It’s a quirky and fun way to sightsee with both land and water views.
14. Photograph Acorn Street
Acorn Street, with its red brick houses and cobblestone path, is one of the most photographed streets in America. Nestled in Beacon Hill, it’s a postcard-perfect glimpse into colonial Boston.
15. Tour the USS Constitution
Known as “Old Ironsides,” this wooden-hulled warship from 1797 is the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat. Visit the USS Constitution Museum to learn about its incredible history and naval life in the 18th century.
16. Follow the Freedom Trail
This 2.5-mile walking route connects 16 historic sites, including the Old North Church, Paul Revere’s House, and the site of the Boston Massacre. It’s the ultimate self-guided tour for American history buffs.
17. Stop for a Drink at Cheers
Remember the TV show Cheers? You can visit the real-life bar that inspired it on Beacon Street. Pop in for a classic American pub meal and maybe a pint of Samuel Adams — Boston’s hometown beer.
18. Pub Hop Through the City
Boston’s Irish heritage shines through its cozy pubs. Stop by The Black Rose for fish and chips or visit one of the city’s craft breweries — like the Samuel Adams Brewery — for a local pint.
19. Climb the Bunker Hill Monument
Built to commemorate the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill, this 221-foot granite obelisk offers panoramic city views. Be prepared for 294 steps to the top — but the skyline is worth every one.
20. Explore the Historic Cemeteries
Walk through Boston’s centuries-old graveyards to see the resting places of American legends like Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere. These peaceful sites are steeped in Revolutionary history.
21. Ride the Boston “T”
The city’s subway system, affectionately called the “T,” is the easiest way to get around. It connects most neighborhoods and attractions — and gives you a glimpse into local life on your commute.
22. Visit the Old North Church
Built in 1723, this is Boston’s oldest surviving church and the site where Paul Revere began his famous midnight ride — marked by the lantern signal, “One if by land, two if by sea.”
23. Stay in a Historic Hotel
Boston’s historic charm extends to its accommodations. Many hotels are converted from centuries-old buildings, giving you a cozy yet elegant place to stay — think fireplaces, exposed brick, and colonial décor.
24. Visit Salem for a Day Trip
Just an hour north of Boston, Salem offers fascinating witch trial history and eerie charm. It’s especially worth visiting around Halloween.
25. Take a Side Trip to Cape Cod, Nantucket, or Martha’s Vineyard
These seaside escapes are close enough for a day trip or weekend getaway — perfect for beach walks, lighthouses, and a slower pace after exploring the city.
26. Visit the Converse Store & Basketball History Spots
Sports fans will love a quick stop at the Converse flagship store, where you’ll even spot Larry Bird’s iconic shoes — a nod to Boston’s basketball legacy.
27. End Your Trip at South Station
Boston’s South Station is not just a transport hub — it’s an architectural landmark and a good place to grab a coffee before catching your Amtrak or exploring nearby attractions.
Final Thoughts: The Soul of Boston
Boston is more than its monuments and chowder bowls — it’s a city that hums with heritage and heart. Every cobblestone, every wharf, every historic steeple tells a story. Whether you’re diving into history on the Freedom Trail or diving into a plate of lobster rolls, Boston leaves you both enlightened and full — in every sense of the word.
Also still looking to more things to try in the US of A? Why not try some more suggestions here. Or even better more travel stories to fuel your inspiration here.
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