As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston offers a rich past seen in its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks like the Freedom Trail, and iconic sites such as Fenway Park. At the same time, its vibrant neighborhoods, world-class museums, and renowned food scene make it a must-visit destination. In this travel guide, you will find the best things to see and do in Boston. You will also find tips on where to stay and what to eat. Keep scrolling for our sample Boston itinerary to help you plan your adventure.
When to Go
The best time to travel to Boston depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. The peak tourist season is from June through August. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, making it the best time for outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded, and hotel prices are higher during this time.
Fall is another popular time to visit Boston due to the stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. The weather is still nice in September and early October, making outdoor activities pleasant. Winter in Boston can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. During the holidays, the city celebrates with festive decorations and events. Hotel rates tend to be lower during the winter months.
Spring in Boston can be unpredictable in terms of weather, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s. With the arrival of warmer weather, you can enjoy blooming flowers and trees in the public gardens. Hotel rates tend to be more reasonable compared to summer.
Where to Stay
Boston has a variety of great neighborhoods to stay in, depending on your interests and budget. Here are some of the best areas to consider:
- Back Bay – Known for its brownstone-lined streets, upscale shopping on Newbury Street, and historic charm. It is best for those looking for luxurious accommodations and easy access to attractions like the Boston Public Library and Copley Square.
- Downtown & Financial District – This area is best for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action. It is close to major attractions like Faneuil Hall, the Freedom Trail, and the waterfront.
- The North End & Waterfront – This area is best for food lovers, history buffs, and those who enjoy scenic harbor walks. It is located in Boston’s Italian district, which offers amazing food and waterfront views.
- Beacon Hill – This area is best for romantic getaways and those who love historic charm. It features gas-lit streets, federal-style row houses, and charming boutiques on Charles Street.
- Seaport District – This neighborhood has luxury hotels, waterfront dining, and great nightlife. It is best for trendy travelers and those who love waterfront views.
- Cambridge – Home to Harvard and MIT and has a more laid-back, intellectual vibe. It is best for those who want a quieter stay and easy access to Boston via the T.
What to Eat
Boston offers a diverse and delicious culinary scene, with dishes that reflect its rich history and cultural influences. Here are some iconic foods and dishes to try when you visit.
New England Clam Chowder
This creamy soup is a Boston classic. It’s made with tender clams, potatoes, onions, and bacon, all simmered together in a rich, creamy broth. For the full experience, enjoy it in a bread bowl. You can find New England Clam chowder in most seafood restaurants in Boston. However, some good spots to try this classic dish include Atlantic Fish Company, Row 34, Union Oyster House, and Legal Sea Foods.
Lobster Roll
Boston is famous for its lobster, and a lobster roll is a must-try dish. It typically consists of tender chunks of lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise, served in a buttered and toasted roll. You can choose between a cold lobster roll (with mayo) or a warm lobster roll (with melted butter). You can find it at several locations in Boston including Yankee Lobster, Row 34, James Hook & Co., and Pauli’s.
Boston Cream Pie
Boston Cream Pie is a classic American dessert that is often referred to as a pie but it is actually a cake. The base of the cake is a sponge-like yellow cake filled with rich and creamy vanilla custard or pastry cream. A chocolate ganache is poured over the cake to top it off. Perhaps the most iconic place to get Boston Cream Pie is the location where it was created, Parker’s Restaurant at Omni Parker House. Other spots include Flour Bakery & Cafe, Bova’s Bakery, and Mike’s Pastry.
Cannoli
Head to the North End, Boston’s Italian neighborhood, for some of the best cannolis you’ll ever taste. These Italian pastries are filled with sweet ricotta cream and often topped with powdered sugar or chocolate chips. Popular places in the North End neighborhood include Mike’s Pastry, Modern Pastry Shop, and Bova’s Bakery.
What to See and Do
Acorn Street
This historic and picturesque cobblestone street in the Beacon Hill neighborhood is the most photographed in Boston. The street is lined with brick rowhouses, many of which date back to the early 19th century. Architectural details, such as wrought-iron railings and colorful window boxes filled with flowers, contribute to its picturesque quality. While there are no specific attractions or businesses on Acorn Street, its historic and picturesque setting makes it a notable and beloved part of Boston’s cultural heritage.
Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area is a collection of 34 islands and peninsulas that offer a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities, historical sites, and natural beauty. The islands are situated in the waters of Boston Harbor, adjacent to the city of Boston and several coastal towns. The focal point of the national recreation area is 39-acre Georges Island and its partially restored pre-Civil War Fort Warren which once held Confederate prisoners. Another highlight is Spectacle Island, a popular destination for swimming and hiking. This island provides excellent views of the harbor and the city skyline. You can find more information here.
New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Boston. The central attraction is the Giant Ocean Tank, a massive, four-story coral reef teeming with sea turtles, sharks, and vibrant tropical fish. Visitors can also enjoy hands-on interactions at the touch tanks, where they can feel stingrays and sea stars. The playful penguin exhibit is a favorite, showcasing different species waddling and diving in their habitat. With engaging exhibits, a state-of-the-art IMAX theater, and a focus on ocean conservation, the aquarium provides an educational and immersive adventure. You can find more information here.
Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum offers visitors an immersive experience that brings to life one of the most iconic events in American history—the Boston Tea Party of 1773. Museum guides decked out in period-appropriate costumes tell visitors the story of that fateful night in an interactive way. The tour includes boarding one of the museum’s replica 18th-century ships to throw fake tea into the Boston Harbor. Additionally, the museum features a range of exhibits and artifacts related to the Boston Tea Party and the broader history of colonial Boston and the American Revolution. You can find more information here.
Boston’s Children’s Museum
Boston’s Children’s Museum is the second-oldest children’s museum in the country. It features engaging exhibits like the three-story climbing structure, the Bubble Room, and the Japanese House. With activities designed for various age groups, kids can experiment, build, and discover in a fun and educational setting. Whether digging for dinosaur fossils or constructing in the Engineering Lab, the museum fosters curiosity and imagination, making it a must-visit destination for young explorers in Boston. You can find more information here.
Boston Public Garden
America’s oldest botanical garden, the Public Garden is one of the city’s most beloved green spaces and a popular destination for both locals and visitors. One of the most iconic features of the Boston Public Garden is the Swan Boats. These pedal-powered boats have been a fixture in the garden since 1877 and are operated by a local family business. The garden is also known for its stunning floral displays and a variety of statues and sculptures, including the famous equestrian statue of George Washington. Another popular attraction in the garden is the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture, which depicts the beloved characters from the classic children’s book of the same name. You can find more information here.
Boston Public Library
Founded in 1848, the Boston Public Library was the first public library in the United States. It has a rich history of serving the people of Boston and has played a significant role in the development of public library systems nationwide. The Boston Public Library boasts an extensive collection of books, periodicals, manuscripts, maps, and other materials. It is known for its rare book and manuscript collections, including the personal library of John Adams, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. The library is also known for its architectural beauty and features stunning murals, sculptures, and artwork. Explore the library on your own or join one of the guided tours. You can find more information about the library here.
Trinity Church
Located in Copley Square, this 19th-century masterpiece features a striking clay-colored stone façade, intricate carvings, and massive arches. Inside, visitors are greeted by stunning stained-glass windows and murals, which create a warm, ethereal glow. Visitors can attend a service, join a guided tour, or tour their church on their own. You can find more information here.
Fenway Park
Visiting Fenway Park, the oldest Major League Baseball stadium still in use, is a must for sports fans and history buffs alike. The park’s most distinctive feature is the legendary Green Monster, a high left-field wall that stands 37 feet tall. Visitors participating in a guided tour can explore the stadium’s history, walk through the dugout, and even sit in the famous red seat marking Ted Williams’ record-breaking home run. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just soaking in Boston’s sports culture, Fenway Park delivers an unforgettable experience. You can find more information here.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston offers one of the most comprehensive art collections in the country. The museum boasts over 500,000 works spanning ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. Visitors can admire renowned pieces like Monet’s Water Lilies, Egyptian mummies, and Japanese samurai armor, as well as American classics from artists like John Singer Sargent. The museum’s beautifully curated galleries provide a journey through global cultures and artistic movements while rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover. You can find more information here.
Harvard
Harvard University is one of the world’s most prestigious and renowned universities. While Harvard is primarily an educational institution, it is also home to several attractions and points of interest that visitors can explore. Harvard is home to three art museums: the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum. These museums house an impressive collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from various periods and cultures.
The Harvard Museum of Natural History features an extensive collection of natural history specimens, including dinosaur fossils, minerals, meteorites, and a famous glass flower collection. It’s an educational and family-friendly attraction.
Lastly, the best way to explore Harvard University is by taking a student-led guided tour around the campus. These tours provide visitors with the history of the school, as well as the day-to-day student life on campus. You can find more information here.
North End
Boston’s Little Italy, also known as the North End, is a historic and culturally vibrant neighborhood located in the heart of the city. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Boston and is known for its Italian-American heritage, delicious food, and rich history. The neighborhood is dotted with Italian bakeries, delis, restaurants, and shops that offer a taste of Italy in the heart of Boston. Bakeries and pastry shops are trendy in the North End. Popular spots include Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry. You can find more information here.
Boston Duck Tour
Boston Duck Tours are a popular and unique way to explore the city. These tours offer a combination of land and water sightseeing, allowing visitors to see many of Boston’s historic landmarks and attractions both on the road and on the Charles River. The tours are conducted aboard amphibious vehicles known as DUKWs (pronounced “ducks”). These vehicles can operate on both land and water, making them ideal for the tour’s unique format. You can find more information here.
The Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long historic trail, that passes through 16 significant historical sites and landmarks related to the American Revolution and the early history of the United States. It’s a popular and excellent way to explore the rich history of Boston and its role in American independence. The trail is marked by a distinctive red-brick path or painted red lines on the sidewalks, making it easy to follow. Along the trail, you’ll also see informational plaques and markers. You can find a free Freedom Trail audio tour here and a trail map here. Here are the sites that you will encounter along the way.
Boston Common
Generally the first stop on the Freedom Trail, Boston Common is one of the oldest and most historic public parks in the United States. It has played a significant role in the city’s history and has been a central gathering place for both residents and visitors for centuries. The Common features lush green spaces, walking paths, and several tree-lined areas. It provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city, making it a popular spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and relaxation. The park is home to various monuments and statues, including the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, the Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial, and the Boston Common Tablet. You can find more information here.
Massachusetts State House
Located atop Beacon Hill, this striking building, with its iconic golden dome, has been the seat of the Massachusetts government since 1798. Visitors can take guided tours to explore its grand halls, historic chambers, and impressive artwork, including murals, statues, and the Sacred Cod, a symbol of the state’s maritime heritage. It is stop number two on the Freedom Trail.
Park Street Church
Located at the corner of Park and Tremont Streets, this historic church has stood since 1809 and played a key role in abolitionism, social reform, and early American religious movements. The striking white steeple, once one of the tallest landmarks in Boston, remains an iconic part of the city’s skyline. Visitors can explore the church’s beautiful interior, learn about its role in historic speeches and hymns, and even attend a service. It is stop number three on the Freedom Trail.
Granary Burying Ground
The Granary Burying Ground is one of the oldest cemeteries in the city and holds a significant place in American history. Established in 1660, this cemetery serves as a burial site for notable historical figures including Paul Revere, John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Crispus Attucks, and Benjamin Franklin’s parents. It is stop number four on the Freedom Trail.
King’s Chapel & King’s Chapel Burying Ground
Founded in 1686, King’s Chapel is a historic church located in the neighborhood of Beacon Hill. It is known for its red-brick facade as well as its historic bell, which dates to 1772. The bell was recast in 1814 by Paul Revere after it cracked. The church has played a role in several significant events in American history, including hosting George Washington during his visits to Boston. Adjacent to King’s Chapel is the King’s Chapel Burying Ground, one of Boston’s oldest cemeteries. Visitors can explore the area via guided tours or at their own pace during open hours. Be sure to check out the historic bell, which still rings daily. You can find more information here.
First Public School Site
Marked by a plaque near the Old City Hall, this site commemorates the Boston Latin School, founded in 1635 to provide free education to boys, laying the foundation for public schooling in America. Although the original building no longer stands, visitors can see a statue of Benjamin Franklin, one of the school’s most famous former students, along with tributes to other notable alumni. This is stop number six on the Freedom Trail.
Old Corner Bookstore
Built in 1718, this historic building once housed the publishing firm Ticknor and Fields, which published works by literary giants like Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and Harriet Beecher Stowe. Located at the corner of Washington and School Street, the site is a reminder of Boston’s rich literary heritage. While it no longer operates as a bookstore, the building remains a cherished landmark, offering visitors a chance to stand where some of America’s greatest writers once gathered and where influential works were first introduced to the world. This is stop number seven on the Freedom Trail.
Old South Meeting House
Built-in 1729, this former Puritan meeting house became the largest gathering space in colonial Boston and was the site of fiery debates, most notably the protest meetings that led to the Boston Tea Party in 1773. The building now serves as a museum where visitors can explore exhibits on colonial history, democracy, and free speech. With its towering pulpit, high wooden pews, and echoes of revolutionary voices, the Old South Meeting House offers a unique glimpse into the spirit of defiance that helped shape America. You can find more information here.
Old State House
The Old State House was built in 1713 and is considered one of the oldest public buildings in the United States. It was the site of several key events leading up to the American Revolution. In 1770, a deadly confrontation between British soldiers and colonists, known as the Boston Massacre occurred just outside of the Old State House. This event was one of the triggers of the American Revolution. On July 18, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was first read to the people of Boston from the building’s balcony, making it one of the first public readings of the document in the colonies. Today, the Old State House is a museum and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the building’s history through exhibits and interactive displays. It is stop number nine on the Freedom Trail. You can find more information here.
Boston Massacre Site
Stop number ten on the Freedom Trail is the Boston Massacre Site. The Boston Massacre occurred near the intersection of State Street and Devonshire Street, right in front of the Old State House. It is marked by a cobblestone circle in the street, which outlines the approximate location where the events unfolded. There is also a historical marker in front of the Old State House that provides information about the Boston Massacre.
Faneuil Hall
This historic marketplace and meeting hall has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. In its early years, it was primarily a marketplace where merchants sold goods such as produce, meat, and seafood. It also functioned as a meeting place for various civic and political events. During the lead-up to the American Revolution, it was the site of speeches by patriots like Samuel Adams, James Otis, and John Hancock, who advocated for colonial rights and resistance against British oppression. Today, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is an adjacent complex that includes Quincy Market and North and South Markets. It features a variety of shops, boutiques, restaurants, food stalls, and street performers. It is a popular destination for shopping and dining in Boston. You can find more information here.
Paul Revere House
Paul Revere’s House is a historic house museum that was once the home of American patriot and silversmith Paul Revere. Built in 1680, it is one of the oldest buildings in Boston and provides visitors with a glimpse into the life of this famous Revolutionary War figure. Visitors can explore the furnished rooms and see period-appropriate furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits related to Revere’s life and times. It is stop number 12 on the Freedom Trail. You can find more information here.
Old North Church
The Old North Church was built in 1723, making it the oldest church building in Boston. It is renowned for its pivotal role in the events leading up to the American Revolution. On the night of April 18, 1775, two lanterns hung in the church’s steeple to signal to American patriots in Charlestown that British troops were advancing by sea. This event, known as the “One if by land, two if by sea” signal, led to Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride to warn the colonial militia. Visitors to the Old North Church can take guided tours to learn more about its history. You can also explore Old North Church via a self-guided tour. It is stop number 13 on the Freedom Trail. You can find more information here.
Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
Copp’s Hill Burying Ground was established in 1659, making it one of the earliest cemeteries in Boston. It is the final resting place of many notable individuals from colonial Boston, including artisans, merchants, and soldiers. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the historic gravestones, and learn about the lives of those buried here. It is stop number 14 on the Freedom Trail. You can find more information here.
Bunker Hill Monument
The Battle of Bunker Hill was one of the first major confrontations between American colonial forces and British troops in the American Revolutionary War. Although the American patriots lost the battle, they proved they could hold their own against the superior British Army. Today, Bunker Hill is the site of the Bunker Hill Monument, a tall obelisk that commemorates the battle. Visitors can climb the monument and enjoy panoramic views of Boston and the surrounding area. It is stop number 15 on the Freedom Trail. You can find more information here.
USS Constitution
The USS Constitution, also known as “Old Ironsides,” is one of the most famous ships in United States naval history. Today, the USS Constitution is berthed at the Charlestown Navy Yard and serves as a floating museum. Visitors can explore the ship, learn about its history, and gain insight into life aboard a 19th-century naval vessel. The USS Constitution has several unique traditions, including firing a 21-gun salute with cannons upon leaving and returning to its berth. It occasionally goes on short cruises in the Boston Harbor. When the ship is open, it is free to visit on a first-come, first-served basis. It is the last stop on the Freedom Trail. You can find more information here.
How to Get Around
The best way to get around Boston depends on where you’re going, but a mix of walking and public transportation is usually ideal. Here are your best options:
- Walking – Boston is one of the most walkable cities in the U.S., with many attractions – like the Freedom Trail, Boston Common, and the North End – easily reachable on foot.
- Subway & Buses – Boston’s subway system, called the MBTA (or “T”), is the most efficient way to travel longer distances. It has five color-coded lines (Red, Orange, Green, Blue, and Silver) that connect most of the city and nearby areas. Buses supplement the subway for places the “T” doesn’t reach. You can find more information here.
- Biking – Boston has a growing network of bike lanes and the Bluebikes bike-share system, which makes cycling a convenient option, especially in warmer months.
- Ferries – If you’re heading to places like Charlestown or the Boston Harbor Islands, ferries offer a scenic and quick way to travel.
- Rideshares & Taxis – Both options are widely available, but traffic and high costs can make them less practical than public transportation.
Boston Travel Itinerary
Are you ready to plan your Boston adventure? Start by downloading our easy-to-customize Boston Travel Itinerary. This is just a sample of what your trip could look like. Easily make changes to fit your schedule and interests.