Things to do in Boston

Top Things to Do in Boston - Boston Attractions

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Things to Do in Boston

A history buff's playground, filled with museums and heritage tours. Take it all in by sea or land (Bunker Hill and Freedom Trail are musts), then catch a baseball game. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Boston.

Top Attractions in Boston

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Historic ballpark renowned for its intimate atmosphere and iconic features such as the Green Monster. Ideal for experiencing baseball's legacy and joining the 8th inning sing-along tradition.
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Historic trail marked by red bricks connects key sites from the city's past, including maritime exhibits and monuments, ideal for self-paced exploration or interactive guided walks.
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Diverse art museum featuring ancient to contemporary works, including a notable collection of Egyptian artifacts and American art, with special exhibits like Hokusai and Life Magazine photography.
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Historic neighborhood known for its Italian culinary scene, with a range of authentic eateries and pastry shops. Features narrow streets and notable landmarks that evoke a European ambiance.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks

Landmark library in Copley Square, known for its blend of ornate and modern architecture, with serene courtyards and grand reading rooms filled with historical artwork and detailed murals.
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Tranquil green space with scenic swan boat rides, picturesque flower beds, and iconic "Make Way for Ducklings" statues, ideal for nature walks and picnics.
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Venetian-style palace museum with eclectic art collection, tranquil gardens, and a personal home ambiance. Features art from various eras and cultures in a unique, historical setting.
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Historical exhibit by the harbor delving into the life and presidency of JFK, with a focus on the Cuban Missile Crisis and Space programme, enriched by video clips and artifacts.
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Historic park with serene green spaces, walking trails, and a variety of seasonal activities like ice skating. Home to scenic ponds, street performers, and key historical monuments.
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Historic neighborhood lined with cobblestone streets and red brick houses, featuring boutique shops, diverse dining, and cultural tours highlighting black history.
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From quick jaunts to full-day outings.

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What travellers are saying

  • zoe l
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    im from boston but moved to vermont when I was like 6, so I went to fenway a lot as a kid, but this was the first time I've gone there for a long time and it was amazing!! i went to a noah kahan concert with my dad, sister, and my best friend and it was so fun.

    first of all, the lines were so quick. they literally took like less than 10 minutes and scanning our tickets were super easy. it was such a good experience compared to yankee stadium, which I went to a week later and those lines took 2.5 hours.

    the food was soooooo yummy, and all the staff we talked to was super nice! we had lots of time when we got there, and the stadium was so fun the just walk around and watch the openers!

    fenway was so amazing and such a great experience, it made an incredible concert even better!!
    Written 5 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Omar
    Trondheim, Norway72 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wonderful walk packed with history. Good shoes is a must. My girlfriend and Google were guides (she is from Boston) Recommended trail.
    Written 15 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Birgitta-Kenneth
    Solna, Sweden1,628 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    It is interesting but it is also really well done as an experience in a different way with new ways to interact and present the story. You wont regret doing this I assure you
    Written 18 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Alison S
    Springfield, MA1,042 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Limited paid parking next to the museum; more in parking garage across the street. From the parking garage, you cannot enter the museum by the "obvious" entrance you see when you exit the garage. Rather you have to walk a considerable distance to entrances on either front or back of the building. We went today for a special exhibition which had an odd theme but featured one of my favorite artists and included lots of her work including pieces I had never seen. Very rewarding! We ate lunch in the cafe which was excellent.
    Written 11 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Grover R
    Pensacola, FL22,473 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The North End is one of the original residential neighborhoods of Colonial Boston, but what distinguishes it is that it has sustained its distinct neighborhood identity to the present day offering great opportunities to see layers of history when you visit. The Freedom Trail crisscrosses the North End offering the opportunity to see many places that are important to America's, Massachusetts's and Boston's history such as Paul Revere's home, the Old North Church and Copp's Hill Burial Ground.

    While it began in the 1600's, it really testified to the growth of the city as this was the first place civic and cultural institutions expanded. It was in the North End that the Second Church (today St. Stephen's Catholic Church) served by the Mather family of preachers was started as well as the second Anglican church, the Old North Church after the King's Chapel. In fact, during the 18th Century, the North End was in its prime as Boston's most fashionable neighborhoods where political leaders like Governor Hutchinson and commercial leaders like Paul Revere lived. It was an important neighborhood to the country's colonial history.

    In the 19 Century, the neighborhood began to commercialize so its residential prominence slipped as new neighborhoods like the Back Bay emerged. By the 20th Century, it was a neighborhood of immigrants, mostly Italians. Today, the neighborhood has seen a rebirth is the city's center; however, it retains a heavy Italian influence. One of the best things to do in the North End is eat some of Boston's best Italian cuisine. More than 400 years of life make this a place you must see on any Boston visit.

    Our visit consisted of an incredible meal at Aldente Ristorante (see the review) and then a walk along the Freedom Trail to see the main sights. However, we also got to see church processional in the street and a festival in the Paul Revere Mall as well as a great visit to St. Stephen's church. Still, we got to see more of the neighborhood crossing the Bill Russell bridge on our way to Charleston and the Bunker Hill Monument, including good views from the top of the obelisk. In all, I could not imagine a visit to Boston without a visit to the North End.
    Written 5 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Hasna
    Montreal, Canada501 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Boston Public Library is an absolute treasure and a must-visit for anyone in Boston! I visited on a Sunday afternoon around 1:30 PM, and while the library was busy with visitors in every corner, it never felt overwhelming or overcrowded. There was no waiting or hassle to get in, which made the experience even better.

    From the moment I stepped inside, I was in awe. The architecture is simply stunning, with intricate designs on the walls and beautiful paintings that give the space a grand, historic charm. It reminded me of the New York Public Library but with its own unique character.

    The library is quite large, spanning two or three floors (at least that I saw!), and every area has something special to offer. My personal favorite was Bates Hall, the iconic reading room with its long wooden tables and green lamps—it felt like stepping into another era. The McKim Courtyard was equally breathtaking. It’s peaceful, aesthetically beautiful, and gave me major vintage movie vibes!

    What I found even more fascinating is that this is America’s first and oldest free large public library, making it not only visually impressive but historically significant too. While entry is free for everyone, there are optional paid services like the café where you can enjoy tea, coffee, or snacks.

    This library is a perfect stop for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone looking for a peaceful escape in the city. Highly recommend adding it to your Boston itinerary!
    Written 26 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • KieraTin603
    Danbury, NH495 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I’ve visited in winter and again in summer both experiences were great. In winter there was ice skating and Christmas lights setting a very romantic atmosphere. In summer the gardens are well maintained for the amount of people visiting. I enjoyed the rose garden area.
    Written 19 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • destinationswithdev
    London, UK131 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Among the many museums I've visited across New England, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston holds a special place for its unique charm and impressive private collection. This museum, housed in a building styled as a 15th-century Venetian palace, was founded by Isabella Stewart Gardner, a prominent art collector and philanthropist. Her intention was to create an intimate space where the public could experience her vast, eclectic collection as if they were guests in her home.

    The museum's collection includes works by world-renowned artists such as Titian, Rembrandt, and Vermeer, among others, arranged in a personal and inviting manner that reflects Gardner’s own home layout. This personal touch makes the museum feel more like stepping into a story or a different era than a typical museum visit.

    Adding to the experience is the museum’s lush courtyard, which features a seasonally changing display of plants and flowers, mirroring the art's beauty with nature’s own. The integration of the courtyard and galleries creates a seamless flow that encourages visitors to meander and explore at their leisure.

    The museum also hosts a charming café, where visitors can take a break and reflect on the art over delightful refreshments. Between the stunning collection, the breathtaking architecture, and the relaxing café, it's easy to spend hours getting lost in the beauty and tranquility that the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum offers.

    This museum isn’t just a place to view art—it’s a venue where art and ambiance converge to create a uniquely immersive experience. It stands out not just in New England but among the private collection museums globally, making it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the profound beauty and intimate presentation of fine art.
    Written 2 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kurt S
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great experience and history. Inspirational in today’s environment. What a tremendous man in comparison to trump. He’s a joke.
    Written 2 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Matt
    Thomaston, CT174 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Did the basic tour. Casey was a fantastic guide; we learned everything about the process, she answered all of our questions and we had a few laughs along the way.

    Great value for the money. We got to drink 3 different beers along the way and stopped in the tap room before leaving.

    Lots of “trial” or “experimental” beers on site here that you can’t get anywhere else that might not make it to market.

    Lots of merch in the gift shop at super reasonable prices!

    Defiantly coming back to the tap room any time I’m around.
    Written 2 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • karen w
    Bangkok, Thailand5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I always went here to walk around to explore the nature and relax my mind, also taking good photo, sitting on the glass feel so good, you should come
    Written 27 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Leandra
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This tour was so informative I wish we would have done it in the first day here! Our tour guide was well prepared and answered every question we had. He made learning on this tour fun. I loved every minute.
    Written 31 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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