Things to Do
Your comprehensive guide to the best events and things to do in Boston
Where to see art in Boston
Museum of Fine Arts
Founded in 1870, the Museum of Fine Arts -whose globe-spanning collection encompasses more than 500,000 objects - continues to grow and innovate. Of particular note is the collection of American art, including Paul Revere’s Liberty Bowl and paintings by John Singleton Copley; the Egyptian collection, much of which was acquired through excavations in conjunction with Harvard University; the Japanese collection (the first in America, and one of the finest in the country); and the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist sections, including one of the largest collections of Monet's work outside Paris. An array of performances and special events attract culture hounds of all ages.
Institute of Contemporary Art
Once crammed into a tiny building in Back Bay, the ICA is now the cultural cornerstone of the Seaport District. The dramatic, glass-walled building houses galleries, a theatre and a café. The museum prides itself on being a platform for challenging works, while changing shows explore broader themes that unite different artists' work, or focus on individual luminaries. After you've contemplated the art, retreat to the scenic outdoor harbor deck, site of numerous performances and events.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
As remarkable as its eccentric socialite founder, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a lavish reconstruction of a 15th century Venetian palace, including an exquisite interior courtyard. Conceived by Gardner and her husband to house the growing collection amassed during their extensive travels, the museum opened in 1903. Every item in the 2,500-piece collection, spanning European, Asian and Islamic art from classical times to the turn of the 20th century, is meticulously placed according to Gardner’s personal instructions. A new wing, designed by museum maestro Renzo Piano, houses gallery space for special exhibitions and other facilities.
Peabody Essex Museum
Less than 20 miles north of Boston in Salem, the Peabody Essex Museum is home to one of the largest art collections in New England (around 1.8 million works in total). The backbone of the museum’s stock is maritime art, but there is also African, American, Asian, Native American and Oceanic art from which to choose. For a break in the appreciation, relax in the atrium’s bright café.
Time Out shop
North End Pizza Tour
Treat yourself to some of the best pizza in Boston on this walking food tour
Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
Step back in time to discover how the Boston Tea Party shaped our nation's history
Art Lab For Beginners
Created for total beginners this class starts with basics of composition, color theory and art history
