Massachusetts Travelers Recommend

With young energy and plenty of history, Boston offers something for every traveler, whether you’re a first-time visitor or getting a fresh perspective on your hometown. Follow cobblestoned streets through Beacon Hill, peek behind the scenes at Fenway Park, and check out art in landmark museums. And it’s not all about the sights, either—some of the best Boston experiences happen in neighborhood pizza joints or old-school bakeries, where you can savor the city’s most iconic bites. From there, you can head to the water’s edge, where whale-watching cruises skim past waterfront attractions and restaurants. Plan ahead to secure spots on top-rated tours or snag skip-the-line tickets that can save you time. These are our hand-picked favorites for getting the very best of Boston. 

There are plenty of activities in Boston that are just as enjoyable for kids as they are for adults. From fun museums to historical sights, here are a few ideas for family fun while in Beantown.

• Relive history on The Freedom Trail, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museums, and USS Constitution.
• Go wildlife spotting at the Franklin Park Zoo, the New England Aquarium, or on a whale watching cruise (in season).
• Choose your preferred mode of transportation and explore Boston’s sights or harbor by bike, Segway, trolle y, or boat, or with Boston Duck Tours.
• Have fun while learning at Boston Children’s Museum, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, or the Museum of Science.
• Tour Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in the country, and watch a Boston Red Sox game during the season.
• Have fun in the playground or enjoy a picnic at Boston Common or The Esplanade.
• Head up to the Prudential Center Skywalk Observatory and enjoy panoramic views over the city.

Three days in Boston gives you time to explore the history-steeped city and get out into the surrounding countryside. Uncover the sites behind the American Revolution, tap into Bostonians’ passion for food and baseball, and make time to visit New England’s coastal towns. Here’s how to get the best from a 3-day break in Boston.

Day 1: Dive into the Sights

Kick-start your stay by visiting Boston must-sees such as Boston Common, Harvard University—the USA’s oldest—and the 1794-built USS Constitution tall ship docked at Charleston Navy Yard. To explore at your own pace, opt for a discount city sightseeing pass or hop-on hop-off trolley tour, or go with a guide on a walking, bike, or Segway tour. Next, focus on one of Boston’s claims to fame—its food—on a tour. Explore Little Italy and its pizzerias on a guided walk around the North End district, or take your taste buds around some of Boston’s famously good chocolate shops. In the evening, join a brewpub tour to discover some local craft beers before dinner at a gastropub. Or end the day on a creepy note with a ghost walking tour that delves into the city’s darkest corners and tales.

Day 2: Head Out of the City

Devote today to a day trip—many of New England’s historical towns are within easy reach. Admire the gingerbread cottages and beaches of Martha’s Vineyard, or cast your net further along New England’s coast with a coach tour to places such as Kennebunkport and Cape Neddick Lighthouse. Another destination is Salem, the scene of notorious witch trials of 1692 and 1693. Group and private tours leave from Boston in the mornings and include visits to witch museums and cemeteries.

Day 3: Colonial History to Sunset Cruises

Trace the steps of America’s revolutionaries with a guided walk or drive along Boston’s Freedom Trail—a route studded with colonial-era buildings such as Paul Revere’s House. Perhaps combine it with a stroll around the elegant Beacon Hill and Copley Square neighborhoods; or discover Boston’s baseball heritage by exploring Fenway Park, one of the country’s oldest stadiums. Alternatively, see the wilder side of Boston on a seasonal whale-watching cruise—sailing to Massachusetts Bay to view the mammals in their natural habitat. Spend your last evening on a Boston harbor cruise. Typical options include cocktail cruises or boat trips with dinner and entertainment.

With two days in Boston, you have time for both a generous dose of American revolutionary history and to explore its more modern side. From charting the origins of US independence on its historical Freedom Trail to taking a whale-watching cruise, here are some ways to spend a perfect 48 hours in the city.

Day 1: Exploring the City

Morning: Boston has plenty to fill your first morning. Follow the Freedom Trail to sites including Faneuil Hall and the 18th-century USS Constitution warship, or explore Harvard University or the city’s museums. Walking and bike tours cover the top sights, or buy a discount sightseeing pass or hop-on hop-off ticket for more flexibility.

Afternoon: After a morning of sightseeing, dial up the adventure for the afternoon. Splash down into the waters of the Charles River on a Boston Duck amphibious tour, or if it’s whale-watching season (generally April-October), take to a high-speed catamaran to see whales in nearby Massachusetts Bay.

Night: Revolutionary history infuses every corner of Boston, making it especially atmospheric after dark. Explore the city’s secret lanes and spooky legends on a ghost-themed evening tour. Options include guided walks into Boston’s oldest lamp-lit districts and a trolley tour that takes you to the city’s haunted buildings and half-forgotten graveyards.

Day 2: Freedom and Food Trails

Morning: Delve into Boston’s revolutionary war heritage on its Freedom Trail. Take a walking tour along the redbrick trail to learn about its British colonial and patriot past, or see the sights from a private car. Finish at the Tea Party Ships and Museum in Boston Harbor to learn more about the war-sparking protests.

Afternoon: See a different side of the city on a tour of some of Boston’s culinary hot spots. Join a guided food walk around the city’s North End district—aka “Little Italy”— to taste its pizzas. Alternatively, opt for a tour of Beacon Hill to discover off-the-beaten path eateries and treats that many miss.

Night: At dusk, take a harbor cruise to relax after your sightseeing and watch the sunset from the water. Choose an all-singing, all-dancing boat with a dinner buffet and live entertainment, or opt for a mellower cruise that settles for serving up sundowner cocktails alongside the city views.

With its extensive public transportation network and patchwork of eminently walkable neighborhoods, Boston is easy to explore without a rental car. Take advantage of the “T” subway and hop-on hop-off trolley tours; join walking tours along the historical Freedom Trail; or hop on a bike, bus, or boat to sightsee. Here are your options.

Public Transit

Boston’s public transportation system is comprehensive and spans the subway—usually referred to as the “T”—buses, trolleys, commuter trains, and boats. The network covers all the city’s attractions, including outer areas such as Cambridge. The easiest way to pay for subway and bus fares is via a CharlieCard—a smart card that’s loaded with cash value or passes—or a paper CharlieTicket, loadable with subway, bus, rail, and ferry passes and tickets.

Walking and Biking Tours

Boston is relatively compact and thus easy to explore on foot or bike. The city also puts walking at its heart through its Freedom Trail—a marked path that leads to its main historical sites. Walking tours along the trail are popular for viewing and learning about the city’s revolutionary history in particular, and include self-guided audio options. Other guided walks focus on districts such as the North End, with townhouse- and cafe-lined cobbled lanes perfect for strolling. Bike tours and bike rentals also are easily available if you prefer two wheels or want to cover more ground quickly.

Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tours

One of the easiest ways to get your bearings and round up Boston’s landmarks is on a hop-on hop-off trolley tour. Modeled on vintage trams, the trolleys trundle around the sights, including the historic USS Constitution, Fenway Park, and Boston Common. Stay aboard for the full loop to discover each sight’s past via the onboard commentary, or hop out at the designated stops to explore at your own pace.

Ferries, Cruises, and “Duck” Tours

Round-trip ferries circle Boston Harbor before sailing to nearby Spectacle Island or Georges Island. Join a narrated harbor cruise to view Boston’s skyline and waterfront attractions such as the Boston Tea Party ships and USS Constitution. Other popular options include whale watching cruises and “duck” tours—where an amphibious vehicle transports you around the landmarks before cruising along the Charles River.

Basking in near-constant sunshine, Boston sparkles from June to August, serving up a multitude of outdoor sights, adventures, and summery trips to New England’s vacation hot spots. From whale-spotting cruises to sampling cold craft beers and discovering Cape Cod’s beaches, here are some must-do experiences in Boston this summer.

• Look for humpback and minke whales in the seas off Boston on a whale-watching cruise.
• Watch Boston’s top landmarks glide by, and hop out to explore further, on a hop-on-hop-off-trolley tour.
• Book a food tour of the North End to enjoy seafood and Italian specialities including Boston’s legendary lobster rolls.
• See Hyannis Port and Cape Cod’s beaches and seafood shacks at their summertime best on a Cape Cod day trip.
• Enjoy the sun as you check out Boston’s colonial sites on a walking tour from the Freedom Trail to Copley Square.
• View the sunset and hear the evening cannon of the USS Constitution during a harbor cruise on a 1920s-style yacht.
• Ride a ferry, discover harbor villages, and see where the movie Jaws was filmed on a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard.
• Relish the cool of evening and Boston’s illuminations on a nighttime bike tour along the city’s waterfront.
• Fly to Niagara Falls on a day trip and marvel at the crashing waters from the Maid of the Mist sightseeing boat.
• Quench your thirst by sampling ice-cold, local craft beers on a Boston brewery tour.

One of the oldest US cities, Boston blends historical sights from the American Revolution with an arty culture, collegiate buzz, and harborside skyscrapers. Getting to know the city in a day is a big ask, but can be done with savvy planning. See our tips for getting the best from Boston in one memorable day.

Morning: Check Out the Sights

Start by taking one of Boston’s hop-on hop-off trolley tours. Stay aboard to view the major sights in one trip: seeing landmarks such as Boston Common and Faneuil Hall or hopping out at any of the many stops to explore on foot. Consider purchasing a city discount pass for complimentary access to top attractions if you want to stay and visit. For a more comprehensive introduction to Boston, opt for a full-day coach tour, instead, which usually stops at highlights such as the restored USS Constitution tall ship and Harvard Square.

Afternoon: Take the Revolutionary Road

Boston’s Freedom Trail is lined with historic 18th-century buildings that tell the story of the patriots whose protests lit the touch for the 1776 American Revolution. Book a private or group tour to see trail highlights, such as the 1770 Boston Massacre site. Then, head to the harbor to explore the Boston Tea Party Ships, from which a group of patriots dumped British tea into the sea in 1773. Alternatively, see more sights on a bike tour, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, a Boston Duck excursion—riding an amphibious vehicle around the city before splashing into the Charles River to view its skyline.

Night: Relax with a Cruise

After a day’s sightseeing, admire Boston’s skyscrapers from the water on a sunset cruise. Choose a cruise that’s right for you. Perhaps stay in a historical mood with a trip on a 1920s-style yacht, or pull out the stops on a state-of-the-art motorboat cruise that includes a buffet dinner, live cabaret, and stellar views of Boston’s illuminated towers and bridges.

With warmer temperatures and the calm that precedes summer, spring is the ideal season to discover Boston. As the days lengthen, there’s plenty to do and see, from whale-watching cruises and historical city tours to discovering the picture-postcard New England coast. Here are some tips for enjoying Boston this spring.

• Check out Boston’s top sights on a hop-on hop-off tour by vintage-style trolley.
• Head out to sea to spot migrating humpbacks and other species of whales on a whale-watching boat trip.
• Retrace the footsteps of Boston’s 18th-century American revolutionaries on a walk along the Freedom Trail.
• Discover Boston Common, Quincy Market, and Cambridge’s Harvard University and Harvard Square on an in-depth Boston day tour.
• Enjoy the spring air and views of Boston’s historic USS Constitution tall ship on a harbor dinner cruise.
• Brave an evening ghost tour to experience some of Boston’s spookiest places and legends.
• Soak in the springtime scenery and rugged capes north of Boston on a coach tour of New England’s coast.
• Dig into a lobster roll and more of Boston’s classic seafood and Italian fare on a food tour of Boston’s cobbled North End.
• Explore the strange events surrounding 1692’s witch trials and executions on a day trip to Salem, Massachusetts.
• Reenact the 1773 dumping of chests of British tea into Boston Harbor at the Tea Party Ships and Museum.

Known for fantastic food, walkable neighborhoods, and easy proximity to other New England attractions, Boston is an ideal destination for an adventure with your sweetheart. Here are some ways to get romantic in the waterfront city.

Sail on Boston Harbor

Nothing says romance quite like a sailing excursion on Boston Harbor. Hop on a clipper ship, sails and all, or opt for a pilot schooner to savor views of top sights such as the Boston Harbor Hotel, New England Aquarium, and Mystic Tobin Bridge. 

Taste Food, Wine, and Chocolate

It’s been said that the way to the heart is through the stomach, so take your significant other on a gastronomic adventure around Boston. If you have a sweet tooth, join a chocolate tour; for a more elevated culinary option, consider a food and wine tasting in the lovely Back Bay neighborhood. 

Take a Sunset Dinner Cruise

For skyline views and a romantic evening on Boston Harbor, book a cocktail or sunset dinner cruise. Tours typically offer a buffet, a live DJ, and drinks, so dine in style and dance all night with your special someone.

Enjoy the New England Foliage

New England is known for its colorful autumn leaves, so don’t miss the chance to take your partner along on a fall foliage journey along the winding roads of the White Mountains. Tours usually leave from Boston, and include hotel drop-off.

Spend a Day in Martha’s Vineyard

A short ride from Boston, you’ll find the quaint island paradise of Martha’s Vineyard, a scenic stretch of coastline just south of Cape Cod. Stroll through the island’s charming villages, check out the pastel-colored cottages, and explore the waterfront. If you’re there in summer, hang out on the beach and take a quick dip in the Atlantic.

Filled with historical landmarks and a diverse mix of restaurants and bars, Boston offers plenty of sightseeing options. But if you want to venture beyond Fenway Park, here’s how to get off-the-beaten-path in Boston.

The Mapparium

Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, the Mapparium is a stained-glass globe that represents how the world looked in 1935, when the structure was built. Travel through the globe via a 30-foot (9-meter) glass bridge; watch a light-and-sound show that explains how the world has changed; and experience the acoustics of the whispering gallery. 

Brattle Book Shop

Boston is home to several prestigious universities, which means there’s no shortage of bookstores. Selling used books since 1825, Brattle Book Shop is one of the oldest used bookstores in the US; you’ll find collectibles and first-edition books beside discounted books on the lot outside of the shop.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Whether you consider her an avid collector or a hoarder, there’s no denying that philanthropist Isabella Stewart Gardner liked stuff. This museum displays more than 2,000 artifacts—including paintings, sculptures, textiles, drawings, manuscripts, and photographs accumulated during her global travels—in a 3-story building that’s been open since 1903. 

Coolidge Corner Theatre

Originally a church, Coolidge Corner Theatre was converted to an Art-Deco movie theater in 1933; today, it maintains its early 20th-century decor—think red velvet seats—while screening both classic and contemporary films. Catch lesser-known flicks or take part in singalongs here; beer, wine, and popcorn are served on-site.

Boston Harbor Islands

Accessible via ferry from Boston city center, and comprised of 34 islands and peninsulas, this national park features hiking trails, campgrounds, and public beaches. It’s also home to a Civil War-era fort and Boston Light, the first lighthouse in the US; book a lighthouse tour for the best views of Long Island Light, Graves Light, and Boston Light.

Old Burying Grounds

Nestled among brick buildings and bookstores, you’ll find several historic cemeteries in downtown Boston, including Granary Burying Ground and King’s Chapel Burying Ground. Wander through to see marble, granite, and slate headstones, some of which depict skulls with wings. At the Granary grounds on Tremont Street, see where Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere are laid to rest.

As summer fades and fall triggers a burst of autumnal color, Boston offers a new set of attractions alongside its usual sights. Visitors come to admire its and New England’s famously vibrant foliage, and view the city’s landmarks in still-comfortable temperatures. Here are some ways to explore Boston in fall.

• Relish the autumnal air and multi-colored foliage along the city’s waterfront on a fall foliage brunch cruise on Boston Harbor.
• Make the most of precious vacation time by checking off Boston’s landmarks on a replica vintage hop-on hop-off trolley.
• See colonies of whales in the Atlantic before they migrate south for winter on a whale-watching cruise.
• Explore the sites and meeting halls that were the backdrop to Boston’s role in the American Revolution on a private Freedom Trail walking tour.
• Marvel at New Hampshire’s spectacle of autumnal color on a fall foliage sightseeing trip around New England.
• See the city’s top sights, stroll Harvard University’s campus, and sail by the historical USS Constitution on a cruise during a comprehensive day tour of Boston and Cambridge.
• Enjoy authentic Boston pizza washed down with cold beer and visit history-steeped pubs on an evening tavern-and-pizza walking tour.
• Get drenched as you spin and hurtle around Boston Harbor on a high-speed Codzilla boat ride.
• Take a full-day rail trip to New York and admire sights such as the Statue of Liberty and Times Square from a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus.
• See the sandy shores of Cape Cod bathed in the pale autumn light on a fall Cape Cod tour, including a boat ride on Hyannis harbor.

Boston’s museums span everything from the key sites along its American Revolution–tracing Freedom Trail to top-tier art and natural history collections. Check out our picks for Beantown’s must-see museums.

USS Constitution and Museum

Berthed at Boston’s Charlestown Navy Yard, this 18th-century frigate is the world’s oldest commissioned warship still afloat. Explore its decks to see its cannons and living quarters, and chronicle its history at the museum.

How to Visit: Book a hop-on hop-off or city tour that calls here or a harbor cruise that includes time to go aboard.

Tea Party Ships & Museum

Comprising an exhibition building and restored tea ships, this museum lets visitors rewind to the 1773 Boston Tea Party, when colonists dumped British tea into Boston Harbor. Watch and participate in re-enactments, and explore the exhibits and vessels.

How to Visit: Make the museum a stop on a hop-on hop-off tour or prepurchase admission and get here on your own.

Old State House

Central to Boston’s Freedom Trail, the Old State House is the city’s oldest public building. Exhibitions chart its role in the 1776 revolution, and a plaque outside marks the area of the 1770 Boston Massacre—when British soldiers shot and killed five colonials.

How to Visit: Join a Freedom Trail tour including a visit or photo stop, buy a ticket independently, or alight here on a hop-on hop-off tour.

Paul Revere House

Once home to American revolutionary Paul Revere, this house was also the starting point of his famous 1775 ‘Midnight Ride.’ Visitors can roam the restored house to see where his family lived, their furnishings, and more.

How to Visit: Take a private or small-group panoramic or walking tour focused on Boston’s Freedom Trail or the city’s wider history.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

Located at Harvard University in Cambridge, this family-friendly museum houses 11,000 exhibits, from wildlife specimens to minerals. Treasures include the Blaschka glass flowers: intricate glass models of plants.

How to Visit: Visit the museum on a Harvard campus walking tour or buy a Boston sightseeing pass that includes entry.

Boston Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)

One of the world’s great arts museums, the MFA houses nearly 450,000 treasures, including Native American and revolutionary-era masterpieces, ancient coins, European and Asian galleries, and classical antiquities.

How to Visit: See it on a bike tour; jump off a trolley tour at the MFA’s home of Huntington Avenue; or save on admission with a sightseeing pass.

Boston may rank as one of the most expensive US cities to visit, but there are still ways to enjoy it on a budget—without having to compromise on what you see and do. Whether it’s a hop-on hop-off trolley outing or a walking tour that includes food tastings, here’s how to get the most for your buck in Beantown.

Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Boston’s hop-on hop-off trolley tours are convenient and inexpensive ways to get your bearings and explore the city for one price, without having to pay for multiple cab or bus journeys. Tours typically include stops at Boston’s top attractions, including the USS Constitution and Fenway Park, and often come with extras, such as entry to the Old State House and other popular activities.

Book an Attractions Pass

Clock up savings while you sightsee by purchasing a Boston attractions pass such as the Go Boston Card. Valid for a set period of time, the cards entitle you to admission or discounted admission to your choice of a list of attractions, all for one price. Attractions passes typically also give you access to tours such as hop-on hop-off trolley circuits, Freedom Trail walking tours, and discounts and deals at restaurants and retailers.

Select a Super Saver

Super Saver tours are ideal for checking off Boston’s must-do activities while saving money. They combine two top-selling tours for a discounted price, so you pay less than if booking them individually. Options include whale watching cruises teamed with entry to Boston’s New England Aquarium and 2-day combos that explore revolutionary and Civil War sites on one day and a Boston trolley tour the next.

Choose Tours and Cruises that Include Food

If you’re already planning to delve into particular areas of Boston, such as the North End, add extra value by booking tours that cover both the neighborhood highlights and cuisine. Choices range from walking tours focused on history and food in the Italian neighborhoods of Beacon Hill and the North End to forays into the South End quarter that include food stops. The same goes if you want to take a boat trip around Boston Harbor—many combine sightseeing from the water with an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet or 3-course dinner.

From modern malls to historical markets, Boston’s shopping scene is as diverse and cultured as they come. Head to Harvard Square for arty bookshops, enjoy history and high-street staples at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, explore the boutiques of well-heeled Back Bay—there’s plenty here for every retail rover. Here are our tips for Boston’s shopping hot spots.

Cambridge and Harvard Square

Across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge centers on Harvard University and Harvard Square, where backstreets are filled with upscale clothing shops, bookshops, and offbeat emporiums that reflect the area’s sophisticated atmosphere. Funky eateries are here in numbers, including chocolatiers and gourmet burger, coffee, and veggie haunts. For a deeper dive into the shopping and food scene, opt for a walking or food-themed tour of the area.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Boston’s main shopping hub comprises three historical buildings: Quincy Market and the North and South Market buildings. Discover a huge spectrum of shops from Uniqlo and Victoria’s Secret to artisan’s pushcarts, and behind Quincy Market, a food hall crammed with eateries and delis. Faneuil Hall sits on Boston’s Freedom Trail, so taking a tour of this historical path is perfect for getting acquainted with the marketplace. Nearby is Boston Public Market, housing dozens of food vendors—join a walking tour to learn about and taste the culinary delights on offer.

Back Bay

Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, between the Charles River to the north and Copley Square to the south, combines high-end shopping streets with glossy malls. Visit brownstone-flanked Newbury Street to browse boutiques and boho shops or the Prudential Center mall for flagship department stores. For wall-to-wall luxury, meanwhile, hotfoot it to the Copley Place complex, where a wealth of designer names, including Gucci and Dior, await.

Beacon Hill

The cobbled streets and red-brick houses of Boston’s Beacon Hill district are home to scores of independent stores selling distinctive gifts, accessories, and fashions. Stroll around to admire the beautiful architecture, dipping into independent boutiques, card shops, and home decor stores en route.

Wrentham Village Premium Outlets

If you’re on a budget, head for this out-of-town complex, 38 miles (61 kilometers) southwest of Boston. With 170-plus retailers such as Adidas and DKNY, plus discounts of up to 65 percent, it’s a bargain-hunter’s dream. Take a day trip from Boston and enjoy a stress-free splurge with round-trip transport included.

The history of Salem is woven into the fabric of the United States, when Massachusetts was still a British colony. Today visitors find a city with history-packed walking tours sharing stories of its Native American roots, colonial past, and infamous Salem Witch Trials. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your day in Salem. 

Morning: The History of Salem

The best way to start your day in Salem is to get the lay of the land—and learn about Salem's storied past—with a history tour covering the town's most important sights. Expect to explore the McIntire Historic District and see standouts such as the Old Town Hall, colonial burial ground, and 18th-century Ropes Mansion. Wrap up your morning with to-go coffee and a stroll to Salem Common, the city's 17th-century public green, and Burying Point, Salem's oldest cemetery. For a quirky twist, end your morning with a witch-themed photo shoot, and capture a perfect souvenir. 

Afternoon: Witches and Waterfront Dining

After lunch, enjoy Salem's cultural institutions. Standouts include the Salem Wax Museum and Witch Village. For a great value, look out for 2-for-1 entry deals, which are typically available with advance purchase. After the Witch Village, walk down Wharf Street—enjoy views of the water, and find several restaurants where you can fill up on fresh, local seafood. If you're inspired by the water views, end your afternoon with a sailing adventure on Salem Sound. Private sailboat charters typically have flexible departures, so it's easy to fit a sail into your busy afternoon.

Night: Spooky Walk and Dinner on the Town

Head to Washington Street to find a fantastic dinner at one of Salem's favorite restaurants. After your meal, sip an aperitif at a local pub or brewery, and head out for a spooky night on the town with an evening walking tour. Since most night tours last just a couple of hours, it's the perfect way to end your day in Salem and experience the historic downtown streets under the cover of night. Look out for a lantern-led tour, or a ghost tour, for a truly spooky option. 

More than 12 million people visit Boston every year, keeping its American Revolution sites, seafaring attractions, and museums quite busy. Here’s how to avoid the main crowds,  from prebooking admission tickets to exploring lower-profile sights.

Choose skip-the-line tickets.

Many of Boston’s flagship attractions offer skip-the-line tickets that let you avoid long ticket lines. With fast-track entry, you breeze past the ticket booth lines and beat the rush.

Visit Boston in winter.

Boston’s peak season is June to October, when visitors come to enjoy the warm weather—expect an average high of 80°F (26.6°C) in August—and the full gamut of the city’s attractions and cruises. For fewer people crowding the top spots, visit in early spring or winter. The weather might be cold (and possibly snowy), but Boston’s big-ticket museums, leisure attractions, and even select harbour cruises remain open and operating.

Buy a sightseeing pass.

Purchasing a Boston sightseeing pass maximizes your freedom, letting you visit attractions when it suits you and allowing you to steer clear of the busiest times. Select Boston cards provide entry to multiple attractions over your choice of one, two, three, five, or seven consecutive days—you choose the time and length of your visit—while other city passes offer skip-the-line entry at top attractions so you can escape any long ticket queues.

Book ahead.

Take time before you travel to check out the opening times at Boston’s museums and attractions and purchase admission tickets in advance. Prebooking often enables you to pick time slots and departures that attract fewer visitors—such as early morning whale watching or harbor sightseeing cruises.

Go beyond downtown Boston.

Boston boasts many tucked-away neighborhoods that feel light years away from its busy center. Escape the crowds of downtown on a food tour of the quieter North End or Beacon Hill districts; book a bike tour around tranquil green spaces such as the nine Emerald Necklace parks, or stroll around Harvard University’s campus when students are on vacation.

Opt for private tours.

Private tours of Boston’s top attractions are great ways to enjoy more elbow room. Consider exploring the must-see Freedom Trail in a private chauffeured vehicle or taking private walking tours with flexible itineraries—they enable you to skip any crowded spots at the last minute and enjoy a more personalized experience.

Boston plays host to a wide range of green spaces and parks, from waterfront gardens filled with attractions and art to leafy oases that provide a peaceful refuge from the city’s hustle and bustle. Read on for our picks of the top parks and gardens in the Massachusetts capital.

Boston Common

Founded in 1634, 50-acre (20-hectare) Boston Common is the US’s oldest park and Boston’s main green space. Originally used for pasture and public executions, it’s now an expanse of grass, tree-lined paths, fields, and recreational spaces. Jump out here on a hop-on-hop-off-trolley tour, or chart its revolutionary history on a self-guided, private, or group walk along Boston’s Freedom Trail, the tourist walkway that crisscrosses its lawns.

Boston Public Garden

Across the street from Boston Common, Boston Public Gardenis a more formal affair, with manicured flower beds, statuary, a pond, and nine bronze ducks—a tribute to the beloved children’s book Make Way for Ducklings, set in the park. Call here on a hop-on-hop-off-trolley circuit, ride a “swan” boat on its waters, or zip around its pathways with ease on a pedicab tour.

Rose Kennedy Greenway

Laid out in 2008, the Rose Kennedy Greenway is a string of parks extending from Boston’s Chinatown to the North End. The lawns hold plenty of attractions—including a carousel, art exhibitions, and food trucks—so there’s always plenty going on. Explore on a bike tour or rent a bike to roam as you wish.

Charles River Esplanade

Hemming the Charles River, this 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) park is a peaceful getaway that boasts a jogging path, lawns, playgrounds, and panoramic river views. Bike tours are perfect for exploring and especially scenic in spring, when the cherry trees bloom, and fall, when brightly colored foliage takes center stage.

Emerald Necklace

This 7-mile (11-kilometer) ribbon of parks between Boston and Brookline includes beauties such as the Arnold Arboretum—home to 15,000 trees—and Jamaica Pond, a wooded park framing a large pond. All come into their own in fall, when their trees are a vision of ochre and red. Kick through the leaves on a stroll, or join a bike tour to take in the autumnal colors.

Christopher Columbus Park

This waterfront gem crowns Boston’s North End neighborhood and is one of the city’s prettiest spots. Graced by a rose garden and trellis-covered walkway, it commands open views of Boston Harbor. Rent a bike to ride along the waterside, or visit as part of a hop-on-hop-off-trolley tour.

Just 90 minutes from Boston by ferry or car, Cape Cod offers a peaceful getaway from the city. Soak up some history in Plymouth or Hyannis Port, enjoy a relaxing cruise, or try some of the area’s superb seafood. Here is what to know before you go.

Cape Cod Highlights

• Visit the John F. Kennedy Memorial in Hyannis Port.

• Enjoy a sightseeing cruise along the Cape Cod Canal, or take a fast catamaran from Boston to Provincetown.

• Stroll through the Cape’s charming seaside villages.

• Explore historic Plymouth, including Plymouth Rock and the Plymouth Plantation Museum.

• Learn about the history of Sandwich, the oldest town on the Cape.

Things to Know

• Hyannis Port is set about 73 miles (117 kilometers) from Boston, a journey of about 1.5 hours by road.

• Full-day trips can last up to 11 hours, so prepare for a long day.

• Pickup is available from select downtown Boston hotels.

• The fast catamarans only run only in the summer and early fall.

• Some Cape tours run only on a seasonal basis.

Long regarded as a hub of learning and culture, the city of Boston boasts a wide array of art museums, from grand public institutions to cutting-edge modern galleries showcasing contemporary art. Here are some of the best spots for viewing everything from medieval masterpieces to conceptual art installations.

Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)—Ancient and modern art from across the world

All art lovers will be drawn to Boston’s MFA, which is one of the United States’ biggest museums and home to an outstanding international collection of paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts. Highlights include the world’s largest collection of works by John Singer Sargent and artifacts such as the American revolutionary Paul Revere’s hand-crafted Liberty Bowl. 

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum—a personal collection in an Italianate setting

Housed in a Venetian palazzo-style mansion, this beautiful museum displays the private collection of the 19th-century arts patron Isabella Stewart Gardner. The ornate building and its inner courtyard will delight architecture aficionados, while the 2,500 pieces of European, Asian, and Islamic art will delight classical and modern art lovers. Located near the MFA, the museum is within walking distance of stops on some Boston hop-on hop-off tours. 

Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)—innovative art in many forms

Situated in the city’s Seaport District, on the edges of Boston Harbor, the ultra-modern ICA has a stark, industrial-looking exterior that mirrors the pieces housed inside. Contemporary art fans will appreciate works by new and acclaimed 21st-century artists, including paintings and digital, audio, and visual installations. For a unique view of the building’s exterior, keep an eye out on a harbor cruise. 

Harvard Art Museums—wide-ranging art in three museums

Overlooking Cambridge’s Harvard Yard, the Harvard Art Museums complex is made up of three separate institutions: the Fogg, Busch-Reisinger, and Arthur M. Sackler Museums. Those interested in Western and European art from medieval times onward will love the Fogg and Busch-Reisinger, while Asian and Islamic art fans will be in their element at the Arthur M. Sackler museum.

Boston’s culinary scene mixes the influences of its longtime Italian community with classic New England specialities and the latest US foodie trends. The result is a city that’s passionate about food and tempts visitors with everything from cider donuts to clam chowder. Read our tips for Boston’s must-try treats and activities.

Must-Try Dishes

Top of Boston’s food tree is its North End district—where the cobbled Little Italy quarter boasts pizzerias, bakeries, and salumeria (cured-meat delis). Head here for every imaginable variety of Neapolitan-style thin-crust pizza, authentic Italian cheeses and meats, and Sicilian cannoli —pastry shells brimming with cheese, chocolate, and other creamy fillings.

Italian specialities aside, Boston is also hot on New England staples. Dig into clam chowder, a hearty clam-and-cream broth perfect in winter. Other must-tries include lobster rolls —hotdog buns stuffed with lobster flesh—and cinnamon-sprinkled cider donuts served with hot apple cider.

Chocolate heads the sweet-treat list. Artisanal shops sprinkle the city’s Beacon Hill area, offering everything from organic sweet and savory chocolates to spice-infused hot chocolate. The city also boasts serious vegan-food credentials, with a growing clutch of cafés and eateries specializing in plant-based goodies such as vegan ice creams, smoothies, and desserts.

Must-Do Experiences

• Take a tour of Boston’s artisanal chocolatiers to sample the city’s decadently flavored chocolates, from organic delights to chile-infused hot chocolate.
• Stroll the cobbled North End to enjoy the thin and crispy pizzas of Little Italy.
• Combine tastings of Italian specialities with a walk along Boston’s Freedom Trail on a combo food-and-culture day trip.
• Explore the city’s vegan repertoire on a tour of its Jamaica Plain district.

With two days in Salem, you can go beyond the conventional history tour and delve deeper into the town’s colonial past. Take the time to see the McIntire Historic District, Old Burying Point Cemetery, and the waterfront, and even book a chartered sail to get out on the open sea. Here’s how to get the most out of your 2-day adventure in Salem.

Day 1: History Tours and Sailing on the Sound

**Morning:**Learn about Salem's past on a half-day history walking tour, and explore the must-see McIntire Historic District. Recharge with a coffee in downtown Salem, then go for a stroll to the Howard Street Cemetery and Salem Common, a 17th-century village green.

**Afternoon:**After lunch, hop aboard a historic vessel at Pickering Wharf for a sailing excursion on Salem Sound. Back on land, stroll Wharf Street to find several seafood eateries, or stop at the House of the Seven Gables, a National Historic Landmark. 

**Night:**For a spooky evening, take a haunted night tour around Salem. Most tours discuss the city's colonial history and witch-trial hysteria. Stroll the cobblestoned streets and marvel at homes on Chestnut Street. History buffs can book a tour combo for top value. 

Day 2: Witchcraft in Salem

**Morning:**Uncover Salem's occult history by starting your day with a witch tour or haunted history tour. Be sure to visit Salem's Old Burying Point Cemetery, where the accused witches from 1692 are buried. Alternatively, opt for a quirky start to the day with an interactive-game adventure.

**Afternoon:**Continue a witch-themed day at Salem's favorite cultural institutions. First, stop by the Salem Wax Museum to see wax reproductions of the town's famous historical figures. Next, visit Witch Village, learn about the history of witchcraft from your guide, and pick up a kitschy souvenir at the gift shop.

**Night:**End your two days in Salem with a scenic evening stroll along the Derby Waterfront District, and find a historic lighthouse at the end of the wharf. This is the perfect place for a photo op and postdinner stroll in the ocean air.

Boston extends a warm welcome in winter, with glittering lights, a vibrant atmosphere, and lots of ways to beat the cold. From exploring American Revolution–themed museums and savoring the city’s warming foods to taking festive harbor cruises, here’s how to best experience Boston this winter.

• Pick and choose from more than 30 Boston museums and attractions according to the weather and for one low price with the Go Boston Card.
• Feel the spray from Niagara’s cascades on the famous Maid of the Mist boat on a day trip by air to Niagara Falls.
• Celebrate New Year’s Eve on an evening dinner cruise around Boston Harbor, complete with a 3-course meal and live entertainment.
• Share in Boston’s love of chocolate by sampling handmade sweets and warming hot chocolates on a city chocolate tour.
• Go ghost hunting under cover of darkness on a ghost-themed trolley tour, hearing tales of Boston’s hauntings and exploring graveyards.
• Relive the 1773 event that started the American Revolution through films and reenactments at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.
• Warm up with apple-cider doughnuts and other local goodies on a Boston Public Market foodie tour.
• Join in some classic Irish Boston merrymaking and Christmas caroling on a high-spirited Irish holiday caroling cruise on Boston Harbor.
• Beat the cold by tracing Boston’s part in the 1776 American Revolution with admission to the Old State House Museum.
• View the city’s must-sees in one go and browse Quincy Market for Christmas gifts on a Boston-in-One-Day coach tour.

Boston’s nightlife scene is an interesting mix of old-fashioned pub crawls and scholarly pursuits. From ghost tours and pub crawls to dinner cruises and a night at a museum, here’s how to spend the evening in Boston.

Bar Crawls and Wine Tastings

Boston’s historic bars—which include Green Dragon Tavern, the Bell in Hand Tavern, and the Warren Tavern—allow you to get a taste of the past while sipping a pint. If you’re new to the city, book a pub crawl to sample local brews and discover Boston’s history. Alternately, discover Boston’s burgeoning wine scene on a tasting tour with a sommelier.

Ghost Tours

From the Boston Strangler to the Boston Massacre, the capital of Massachusettshas a lot of skeletons in its closet. Listen to spooky stories on a “frightseeing” tour that takes you through burying grounds and cemeteries.

Night Cruises

Experience the illuminated sights of Boston Harbor on an evening cruise. Sail past the Old North Church, Independence Wharf, the USS Constitution, and New England Aquarium as you relax with a cocktail. Plus, some packages include an on-board dinner buffet.

Museum Visits

Beat the daytime crowds by visiting Boston’s museums at night. On designated weeknights, explore the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Science, or the Institute of Contemporary Art. The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum even hosts a colonial tavern night, where you can eat and drink with historical characters from the revolution.

With its colonial past, proud artistic heritage, and rich collegiate tradition centered on Harvard University, Boston bustles with cultural experiences. Here’s how to tap into the city’s cultural offerings, from visiting its great art and science museums to sampling its diverse food scene.

Uncover Boston’s Revolutionary Heritage

Chart Boston’s revolutionary heritage along its Freedom Trail—the red-brick path that links locations associated with the city’s role in sparking the American Revolution. Tours typically cover the Old State House, Boston Common, and other highlights and offer the advantage of a guide to recount the stories behind the sites. Combine a tour with time at the harborside Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum to learn about the incident that helped trigger the revolution, and take a harbor sightseeing cruise for panoramic views of Boston’s historical waterfronts.

Visit an Art, Science, or History Museum

Boston offers numerous museums that celebrate its arts and scientific heritage. Head for Fenway to visit the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) and nearby Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, explore the waterfront Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), and roam the Museum of Science and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Museum—the Go Boston sightseeing pass includes entry to all five. Other must-visits include the Harvard Art Museums and Harvard Museum of Natural History, both in Cambridge.

Explore Beyond the City Center

Downtown Boston melts into a mosaic of small neighborhoods with their own individual atmosphere and cultural heritage. Cross the Charles River to absorb the bookish-yet-boho vibe of Cambridge and Harvard Square; immerse yourself in the Italian-American North End; discover the contemporary art galleries of fashionable SoWa; or pedal cobbled Beacon Hill and Back Bay on a bike tour.

Delve into the Eclectic Food Scene

Boston’s food scene reflects the city’s multicultural roots. Enjoy classic New England seafood eats such as lobster rolls on a tour of the Public Market; savor Italian pastries and pizzas in the Italian-American North End; or treat your tastebuds to Boston’s artisanal chocolates and beers with a guide to lead you to the top purveyors.

Discover Boston’s Baseball Culture at Fenway Park

Boston and baseball go hand in hand, and Fenway Park stadium is the US’s oldest temple to the game. Exploring the 1912 ballpark, home to the Boston Red Sox, delivers a fascinating insight into Boston’s baseball culture. Tours are popular—be sure to prebook to secure your place on a day that suits you.