This curated list of top things to see and do in Boston will ensure you have an unforgettable visit to this historical and vibrant city.

From tracing American history along the Freedom Trail to savoring culinary delights in the historic North End to walking on the grounds of some of the most prestigious universities in the world, Boston has so much to offer any visitor.

My son and his girlfriend moved to Boston in September 2022. And since that time, I have visited them five times already ;0. My husband and I also lived in New York for graduate school in the late 90’s and visited Boston often back then too ;).

It is one of those Northeast cities that is easy to make a return visit to.

This list of the top things to see and do in Boston will hopefully help you create the perfect itinerary for your visit – whether it is the first or the fifth!

If you are looking for the best places to stay and eat in Boston – be sure to check out my post with all those details here.

In a rush?

But First: The Little Details

Boston is located in Northeast US and is very easy to navigate.

I have included details such as how to get to Boston as well as how to get around once you are there and where to stay and eat in the ‘Best Boston Massachusetts Travel Guide’ post you can find here.

One quick tip for visiting this city – you DO NOT need a rental car! Unless you are planning a day trip to an out of town city, parking is at a premium in this city and between public transportation and Uber – you will not have any problem navigating the city.

When we plan our trips to Boston and add on shorter getaways to places outside of town, we rent a car only for those days we will not be in the city.

We visited Nantucket Island in April 2023, and while you also do not need a car on that island, you do need a car to get to the ferry. So we rented a car for the 3 days we went to Nantucket ;).

Now onto the focus of this post – top things to see and do in Boston!!

Freedom Trail

Boston’s iconic Freedom Trail is a city walk 2.5 miles in length along the red brick path on Boston City sidewalks.

You will trace the footsteps of revolutionaries and explore 16 historic sites spanning from Boston Common to Bunker Hill.

It is best visited by foot either independently or with a costumed tour guide (I personally have never done a tour but always see them on the streets of Boston and can tell they are giving some fascinating history stories that shaped the birth of the United States). Learn more about tour options here.

The Trail starts at the Boston Common Visitors Center where you can pick up a paper map if you want one (or use your phone!).

If you are visiting the city for multiple days, the trail can easily be split up by neighborhood amongst as many days as you want ;).

If you cannot do the entire 2.5 miles and 16 sites – my recommendation is to see the following at the very least:

• Massachusetts State House (capital building)
• Granary Burying Ground (Paul Revere’s tombstone)
• Benjamin Franklin statue
• Old South Meeting House
• Old State House (go inside to the Revolutionary Museum)
• Boston Massacre Site (right outside of Old State House)
• Faneuil Hall – one of America’s first public meeting halls but is now more of a tourist trap with restaurants and tchotchke stands (my recommendation is to NOT EAT HERE!)
• Paul Revere House (see below!)
• Paul Revere Statue & Old North Church

Paul Revere House and Paul Revere Monument

The preserved home of the famous patriot offers a fascinating glimpse into colonial life and the events leading up to the American Revolution.

While it will not take you long to go through the entire house (tops 30 minutes!) – it is so worth it to be in the very spot one of the most famous Americans lived almost 250 years ago ;).

Adults cost $6 to enter with the ticket booth out front with opening hours being from 10am-4 or 5pm (depending on the season).

Paul Revere House is located in the North End neighborhood of Boston where you can savor authentic Italian cuisine, indulge in cannoli from renowned pastry shops, and explore charming cobblestone streets before or after your visit here.

Just a short walk away from the Paul Revere house is the monument of Paul Revere riding his horse representing the iconic saying of the ‘Shot heard around the world’.

It is one of the most photographed sculptures in Boston and is significant to the history of this town and its role in the Midnight Ride of Paul Revere.

Boston Public Library in Copley Square

The Boston Public Library in Copley Square is a majestic architectural marvel, boasting ornate details and grand halls that invite visitors to explore its vast collection of books and artifacts.

This cultural gem offers a serene escape for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike and is worth a stop – even if only for twenty minutes (which is what we did ;0).

Acorn Street

Acorn Street, in Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, enchants with its cobblestone charm and picturesque row houses, offering a quintessential New England photo op that captures the timeless beauty of the city.

I have visited at multiple times throughout the day in spring and fall (Beacon Hill is my favorite neighborhood to stay in when I visit Boston).

Sunset can usually collect a crowd of photo takers – my only advice for this neighborhood is – REMEMBER PEOPLE LIVE HERE so be respectful, quick, and quiet ;).

Fenway Ballpark Tour

If you ask my husband what his all time favorite thing to see and do in Boston is – he would say touring Fenway Park ;).

And I have to admit – touring the oldest stadium in Major League Baseball is definitely a Boston highlight.

Once you have done the tour yourself, even if you are not a sports fan at all, you will be hard pressed to not see why Fenway Park is known as America’s Most Beloved Ballpark.

Adult tickets start at $25 each depending on which tour you do – you can learn more on this MLB.com Fenway Park tour website.

We did an 11am tour that lasted an hour, went and got lunch, and came back for the 5pm game that night.

Public Garden

As the first public botanical garden, the Boston Public Garden boasts vibrant floral displays, tranquil ponds, and iconic swan boats gliding across the water, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

With its meticulously manicured lawns and charming footbridges, the Public Garden offers a picturesque escape from the bustling urban landscape of Boston.

Charles Street

Charles Street in Boston is a charming cobblestone road lined with historic brownstones, offering a delightful blend of quaint boutiques, cozy cafes, and antique shops.

Stroll along this picturesque street to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Beacon Hill.

One of my favorite places to stay in Boston, The Whitney Hotel, is located at the end of this street.

Newbury Street

Newbury Street, Boston’s iconic shopping destination, beckons with its charming brownstones and a vibrant atmosphere teeming with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes, making it a must-visit spot for fashion enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

With its picturesque sidewalks lined with trees and historic architecture, strolling down Newbury Street is an experience that seamlessly blends the city’s rich history with contemporary charm.

Use this link to discover all the shops on Boston’s ‘Fifth Avenue’.

Boston Harborwalk

With panoramic views of the harbor and access to quaint cafes and lively entertainment spots, Boston Harborwalk is a delightful blend of Boston’s past and present.

It is a 43 mile linear park (yes – you read that right!) that follows the Boston shoreline. There are multiple restaurants along the harborwalk but honestly, just walking along the wooden pathway and enjoying the views of the Boston skyline are worth the time here.

JFK Presidential Library

Coming in a close second to the Fenway Park tour, is visiting the JFK Presidential Library for my husband and I.

It stands as a beacon of American history, offering visitors a captivating journey through the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy through interactive exhibits and iconic artifacts, all set within a striking architectural masterpiece designed by I.M. Pei.

Set on the Columbia Point waterfront, we easily took an Uber to and from this fantastic museum.

I purchased our timed entrance tickets on their website in advance.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

With four museums to choose from in Cambridge, this was a great place to spend a couple of hours on a rainy day during one of our fall visits to Boston.

With its stunning array of specimens and interactive displays, it’s a treasure trove for both the curious traveler and the seasoned nature enthusiast alike.

The Glass Flowers Gallery is filled with intricately detailed delicate glass masterpieces that are easy to marvel at as you walk from glass display case to glass display case.

The entrance fee for adults in April 2024 is $25 however there are plenty of student and senior discounts that can be lower.

Harvard Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments

Discover the awe-inspiring Harvard Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments, where centuries of innovation and discovery are beautifully preserved, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the evolution of scientific exploration and instrumentation.

This remarkable collection showcases the ingenuity and legacy of scientific pioneers, making it a must-visit destination for both history enthusiasts and science aficionados alike in Boston.

Something to note – this museum is closed on Saturdays (unfortunately) and is located inside the Science Center on Harvard’s Cambridge campus making it worth some time before or after wandering the grounds of this historic university.

Mount Auburn Cemetery

Nestled in the heart of Boston, Mount Auburn Cemetery is a serene oasis known for having some of the most impressive east coast fall foliage mixed in with meandering pathways and stunning monuments.

With its rich history dating back to 1831, this historic landmark offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city, perfect for contemplative walks and appreciation of its picturesque landscapes.

Prestigious Universities

Boston is world renowned for its outstanding colleges and universities with Harvard and MIT at the top of that prestigious list.

During one of our visits we walked over the Charles River from our hotel in Beacon Hill to the MIT and Harvard campuses. And were impressed by the level of intelligence we sensed in each of the buildings that we wandered into.

If you can only visit one campus, stroll the Harvard Square grounds for a little bit to get a taste of the Ivy League ;0.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Step aboard the Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum to immerse yourself in the pivotal moment of American history where the famous tea tax protest took place.

Experience the interactive exhibits aboard the restored 18th-century ship, offering a captivating journey back to the time of the American Revolution.

Voted the #1 Patriotic Attraction in America by USA Today newspaper, tickets starting at $35/adult can be purchased in advance here.

Charles River Esplanade

The Charles River Esplanade stretches for three miles on one side of the Charles River between the Museum of Science and the Boston University Bridge.

Its scenic pathways and vibrant atmosphere make it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, inviting visitors to soak in the beauty of Boston’s natural landscape.

The pathway makes for an extremely pleasant fall foliage stroll along the river if you happen to be visiting the city in the fall season.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Art Museum

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a breathtaking treasure trove of art and culture, housed within a stunning Venetian-style palace.

With its photogenic lush courtyard, eclectic collection, and mysterious history, it’s a must-visit destination for even the not so interested in art museum art travelers (such as myself and my husband ;0).

My favorite part about visiting in May 2024, was searching for the still hanging empty frames from the 1990 art heist in which 13 pieces of extremely valuable art were stolen from the museum! You can read more about that here.

Timed entry tickets are available 4 weeks in advance here. This is an extremely popular sight to see in Boston (especially the courtyard!) and some days will sell out so getting your tickets as soon as they become available is highly suggested. Children aged 17 and under are free however a ticket is still required.

Day Trips from Boston

As mentioned above, we have taken many day trips and longer 3-5 day trips on most of our visits to Boston.

The only day trip we were able to take without having to rent a car was to Salem, Massachusetts in the fall of 2022. This is a fun day trip for Halloween season if you are visiting then ;).

The rest of our day trips have been via renting a car (at Logan International Airport) – with some for more than a day or two.

Read more about the best day trips and quick getaways from Boston here.

Here is a list of suggestions for a great getaway from Beantown:

• Salem, Massachusetts
• Kennebunkport, Maine
• Portsmouth, New Hampshire
• Kancamagus Pass in Lincoln, New Hampshire
• Newport, Rhode Island
• Nantucket Island
• Martha’s Vineyard
• Cape Cod
• Minute Man National Historic Park in Concord, MA
• Rockport, Massachusetts
• Newburyport, Massachusetts
• Plymouth Rock and Plimoth Living History Museum in Plymouth, Massachusetts

Salem, MA

Kennebunkport, Maine

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Kancamagus Pass near Lincoln, New Hampshire

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Rockport, Massachusetts

Newburyport, Massachusetts

Newport, Rhode Island

What to Wear in Boston

Having been to Boston in the months of April, May, July, September, and November, I can say my attire has been all over the map.

My end of September 2022 visit shortly after my son moved to Boston was during a massive east coast heat wave while our April visit was during an unusually cold spring.

As I say with every travel post – layers are important and comfortable shoes are the MOST IMPORTANT.

My stylish New Balance shoes are one of my favorites to wear. I also never travel without a raincoat in my suitcase anymore ;0.

I hope you found this post helpful in planning your top things to do in Boston. My son and his girlfriend are planning to stay in Boston for the time being (hopefully they will make it back to California someday!) which means I still have many return visits in my future ;). Luckily, Boston is a city that I will always enjoy returning to.

A visit to Boston offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life, all wrapped up in a picturesque New England setting.

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Life is short, the world is wide.

I want to make some memories.

~Mamma Mia

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Have a wonderful day my friend! I hope something makes you smile today ;).