Best 20 things to do in Boston, United States

Welcome to the city where tea was dumped in the harbor and marathon runners are as common as rabid squirrels. If you find yourself in Boston, be prepared for a wicked good time! From strolling down the famous Freedom Trail, where your legs will crumble like stale cookies, to devouring clam chowder that’s so rich, it makes your love handles dance with delight. And don't forget to catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, where even aliens are sworn to bleed Sox red. Boston's got it all, so grab your lobster bib and get ready for an adventure!

Save destination

1. The Institute of Contemporary Art

4.4 (3514)

25 Harbor Shore Dr, Boston, MA 02210, USA

Welcome to the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, where art is as contemporary as the struggles of untangling headphones! This mind-bending gallery is the masterclass in making you say, "Hmm, could a toddler have done that?" But fear not, fellow traveler, for the ICA is engineered to make you feel like you could be stranded in a room full of IKEA furniture at any given moment. Wander through this captivating space where art is like a Pokémon – you gotta catch ‘em all! With its sleek, glass façade, the ICA merges cutting-edge architecture seamlessly with exhibits that will leave you pondering the significance of a singular dot on a giant canvas. Embrace your inner philosopher while engaging with thought-provoking installations that will have you questioning the meaning of life, the universe, and why people choose to wear socks with sandals. Art aficionados will rejoice at the ICA's dedication to pushing boundaries and blurring the line between art and modern life. From mind-boggling multimedia displays to thoughtfully arranged minimalist pieces, this gallery invites you to explore that fine line between genius and someone who got coffee art in their morning latte. So, grab your monocle, channel your inner hipster, and prepare to immerse yourself in a world where creativity runs wilder than a squirrel stealing your last Cheeto. The Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston is not just a destination for art lovers, but also for those seeking answers to life's most pressing questions, like why do people put pineapple on pizza? Dare to indulge your senses, challenge your perceptions, and embark on an adventure that will have you contemplating the true meaning of "Is this art or just a prank?"

www.icaboston.org

Learn more

2. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

4.6 (6247)

306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210, USA

Welcome to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, the place where history comes alive and tea meets rebellion! Step aboard these floating time machines and unleash your inner revolutionary as you immerse yourself in the dramatic reenactment of one of America's spiciest tea-infused events. Brace yourself for an interactive adventure that will whisk you away to the bygone era, where you'll be schooled by cheeky patriots, sip some wicked good tea, and maybe even learn a thing or two about that famous colonial brew-quake, the Boston Tea Party.

www.bostonteapartyship.com

Learn more

3. USS Constitution Museum

4.7 (6438)

Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA

Nestled in the heart of Boston, the USS Constitution Museum stands tall and proud like a sailor who has conquered every wave. Combining history with interactive exhibits, this museum is a delightful escape for landlubbers seeking a taste of maritime adventure. Set sail on a journey through time as you explore the captivating stories of the legendary warship, USS Constitution, fondly known as "Old Ironsides," and discover if you've got what it takes to become a sailor without the fear of getting seasick.

ussconstitutionmuseum.org

Learn more

4. Harvard University

4.5 (5622)

3 Oxford St, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA

Welcome to Harvard University, where brains and ivy grow side by side! Nestled in the charming city of Boston, this historic institution is like a mythical land of academic prowess and outdated fashion choices. As you stroll through the picturesque campus, don't be surprised if you feel a sudden urge to raise your hand and answer questions that nobody asked. Just remember, if you encounter a student enthusiastically discussing Plato or calculus, try not to get sucked into a black hole of intellectual banter - they may never let you leave!

www.harvard.edu

Learn more

5. New England Aquarium

4.4 (21364)

1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA

Welcome to the New England Aquarium in Boston, where the underwater world collides with some serious fishy business! Dive headfirst into a marine adventure that will leave you flapping with excitement (but please, no actual flapping; the staff frowns upon it). Get up close and personal with quirky penguins, grumpy lobsters, and the occasional sassy sea turtle, because where else can you witness ocean life behaving like it's starring in a reality TV show?

www.neaq.org

Learn more

6. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

4.7 (681)

Columbia Point, Boston, MA 02125, USA

Nestled in the vibrant city of Boston, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is a must-visit for all history buffs and Kennedy enthusiasts. Step into this architectural delight, which looks like the world's fanciest Rubik's cube, and embark on a captivating journey into the life and legacy of America's beloved 35th president. Get ready to have your socks charmed off by interactive exhibits, awe-inspiring artifacts, and the occasional conspiracy theorist lurking in the shadows.

www.jfklibrary.org

Learn more

7. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

4.7 (7155)

25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115, USA

Nestled in the lively heart of Boston, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum beckons visitors with its peculiar charm. This enchanting mansion-turned-art gallery will tickle your senses and leave you questioning whether you've entered a museum or a time machine to the 19th century. Prepare to be dazzled by the quirky collection of eclectic art pieces, as you wander through rooms adorned with opulent tapestries and chandeliers, and discover treasures hiding in every nook and cranny.

www.gardnermuseum.org

Learn more

8. Boston Common

4.7 (31392)

139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111, USA

Welcome to Boston Common, where the ducks aren't made of gold, but they're definitely the talk of the town! This historic park is as vibrant and lively as a city block party, with plenty of green space to frolic around and lose those pesky tourist calories. Whether you want to play frisbee with a squirrel or catch a concert under the stars, Boston Common is the hub of outdoor escapades that even the statue of George Washington can't resist!

www.boston.gov

Learn more

9. Museum of Fine Arts

4.8 (14635)

465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA

Welcome to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, where art lovers and potential art critics come to embrace their long-lost artistic souls. Get ready to feast your eyes on a glorious smorgasbord of masterpieces that will make you feel both sophisticated and slightly guilty for never finishing that painting you started in high school. Delve into the intriguing depths of ancient Egyptian mummies, Renaissance paintings, and contemporary installations that will leave you questioning the meaning of life, as well as why they didn't take your finger paintings more seriously in kindergarten.

www.mfa.org

Learn more

10. Boston Harbor Islands

Harbor Islands- Long Island, Boston, MA, USA

Welcome to Boston, where the city's charm extends beyond its bustling streets and into the sparkling waters of Boston Harbor Islands. This archipelago of 34 islands is quite frankly the perfect escape for urbanites seeking a break from dodging aggressive squirrels and paying ridiculously inflated rents. Hop on a ferry and prepare yourself for a one-of-a-kind experience, complete with stunning coastal views, historic sites, and seagulls who possess a never-ending appetite for your picnic sandwiches.

Learn more

11. Fenway Park

4.8 (33896)

4 Jersey St, Boston, MA 02215, USA

Welcome to Fenway Park, the oldest active Major League Baseball stadium in the United States! Prepare to be transported back in time as you enter this historic gem, where the cheers of Red Sox fans have echoed through the ages. Get ready to experience quirky features like the famous Green Monster that intimidates outfielders and provides a perfect spot for enthusiastic spectators to attempt catching home run balls - if they dare to challenge its towering height!

www.mlb.com

Learn more

12. Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill, Boston, MA, USA

Welcome to Beacon Hill, where picturesque streets transport you back to a time when the Founding Fathers were just the We-Just-Started Fathers. Marvel at the cobblestone roads that perfectly align with the cobbled aspirations of Instagram influencers looking for the best content. Indulge in the architectural symphony of federal-style townhouses waiting to whisper, "Yes, we're in Beacon Hill, but no, you can't afford us."

Learn more

13. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

4.7 (3728)

77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA

Welcome to the land of brainiacs and all things nerdy, where Harvard takes a backseat and MIT stands tall in its glorious geekdom. Nestled in the vibrant city of Boston, this prestigious institution blows minds and solves problems faster than a New Yorker can hail a cab. From robotic bartenders to Nobel Prize-winning professors, MIT is where science fiction dreams become a reality – just be prepared for your IQ to feel a little inadequate.

web.mit.edu

Learn more

14. Paul Revere House

4.4 (3393)

19 N Square, Boston, MA 02113, USA

Welcome to the Paul Revere House, where you can step into the shoes of a legendary American hero - minus the whole midnight ride thing. This 17th-century dwelling has all the charm of an Airbnb, just without the luxuries like WiFi or central heating. So, let your imagination run wild as you imagine the sounds of galloping horses and eager revolutionaries plotting overthrowing tea party etiquette.

www.paulreverehouse.org

Learn more

15. Mapparium

210 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA

Welcome to the Mapparium, Boston's very own "world-class" attraction that will take you on a journey like no other! Step inside this stunning three-story, stained glass globe and prepare to be transported to a time when ATL was not just a popular acronym for "away to lunch"! Wander the curved pathways of this unique experience and witness the world as it was in 1935 - try not to be too disappointed if you don't see anyone wearing flapper dresses or wielding fedora hats!

www.christianscience.com

Learn more

16. Franklin Park Zoo

4.4 (7114)

1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121, USA

Welcome to Franklin Park Zoo, the wildest and wackiest playground for animal enthusiasts in Boston! This zoo is not your average run-of-the-mill wildlife sanctuary; it's more like a red carpet event for all the critters of the world. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with lions who think they're the kings of Boston, monkeys who swing from tree to tree like they're auditioning for Tarzan, and penguins who could give Happy Feet a run for his money with their dance moves. So, embrace your inner Tarzan and prepare for a day of wild encounters that'll have you roaring with laughter!

www.franklinparkzoo.org

Learn more

17. Freedom Trail

Freedom Trail, Boston, MA, USA

Are you ready to embark on a historical journey, walking in the footsteps of the brave and possibly sweating a little? Well then, welcome to the Freedom Trail in Boston! This iconic 2.5-mile red-brick pavement will lead you through 16 historical sites, as you play real-life Frogger with countless tourists and joggers along the way. Brace yourself for tales of revolution, as you dodge selfie sticks and marvel at buildings older than your great aunt's famous fruitcake recipe. Oh, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Paul Revere himself, or at least his impersonator!

Learn more

18. Boston Children's Museum

4.7 (5190)

308 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210, USA

Welcome to the Boston Children's Museum, where kids can unleash their imagination and parents can rediscover their inner child (while secretly relishing in the fact that there's no one else responsible for their kids' mess). This museum is the ultimate playground, with exhibits designed to keep kids entertained, educated, and happily exhausted, allowing parents to finally understand the true meaning of "peace and quiet." So grab your little ones and get ready to explore the abyss of creativity and chaos that awaits you at the Boston Children's Museum – where growth spurts, crayon-covered walls, and sticky fingers are always welcome!

bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Learn more

19. Quincy Market

4.5 (7886)

206 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109, USA

Welcome to Quincy Market, the culinary and cultural extravaganza of Boston! Brace yourselves for a mouthwatering medley of food stalls offering everything from steaming clam chowder to towering lobster rolls. Amidst the spellbinding aromas, you'll find hordes of hungry tourists, moving like excitable ants, on a quest for the tastiest New England treats. So, loosen those belts (metaphorically or sartorially, your choice) and immerse yourself in this gastronomic amusement park, where calories are cherished and elastic waistbands are highly recommended!

www.quincy-market.com

Learn more

20. Boston Public Garden

4.8 (15625)

Boston, MA 02116, USA

Welcome to the magnificent Boston Public Garden, where ponds and pretty flowers await to entertain you. Marvel at the Swan Boats as they gracefully glide across the water, giving even the most skeptical tourists a touch of whimsy. Don't forget to snap a selfie with the famous Make Way for Ducklings statue, where adorable bronze ducklings line up patiently, waiting for their turn to become your social media superstars!

www.boston.gov

Learn more

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Boston by plane is to fly into Boston Logan International Airport, which is located just 3 miles from downtown Boston. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, JetBlue, and Southwest all service this airport from cities across the United States and around the world.

Car

Driving to Boston is an option if you live within a few hours of the city. However, be aware that parking in Boston can be expensive and difficult to find. If you do decide to drive, the easiest way to get into the city is via I-93 or I-90.

Train

While there are train stations in Boston, it may not be the most efficient way to get there. However, if you are coming in from other parts of Massachusetts or the Northeast Corridor, Amtrak offers service to Boston's South Station and Back Bay Station.

Boat

While Boston is located on the coast, taking a boat may not be the easiest or most efficient way to get there. However, there are ferry services from nearby islands, such as Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, that dock in Boston's Long Wharf area.

Bus

A great way to get to Boston is by bus. Greyhound and Peter Pan Bus Lines both offer service to Boston from cities across the United States. The main bus station in Boston is the South Station Bus Terminal, which is located in the heart of the city.

More guides

Budget-Friendly Boston: A Two-Day Adventure

Boston is a great city that can be explored even on a limited budget. Visitors can enjoy the historic sites and museums like the Freedom Trail, the USS Constitution Museum and the Harvard Art Museums. One can also indulge in delicious fresh seafood at affordable prices and explore the city's parks and gardens for free.

4-Day Adventure: Romance & Culture in Boston

A romantic trip to Boston promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. From visiting the Freedom Trail and strolling through the Boston Public Garden to indulging in some delicious seafood at the North End, Boston has it all. Don't forget to catch a sunset at the iconic Fenway Park and take a romantic stroll along the picturesque Charles River.

Weekend Wanderlust: A Boston Adventure Guide

A trip to Boston, United States as a tourist offers a unique blend of historic landmarks and contemporary attractions. Walking the Freedom Trail brings history to life, while dining on fresh seafood and shopping in trendy boutiques provide modern-day experiences. Whether taking in a ballgame at Fenway Park or wandering through the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Discover Boston: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

Experience the rich history and culture of Boston on a family-friendly trip. Explore the iconic Freedom Trail, discovering the birthplace of American independence. Immerse yourselves in the world-class museums, enjoy interactive exhibits at the New England Aquarium, and embark on a thrilling whale-watching adventure in the nearby waters.