The 39 best things to do in Boston

What is it? The first order of business for any first-timer to this city is a stroll along the Freedom Trail. The easy-to-follow trail not only takes you to our unbeatable Revolutionary history sites, but it's a great way to get a lay of the land. Keep your eyes peeled for restaurants and shops you may want to visit later. 

Why go? The Freedom Trail isn’t the only historical walking tour in town, but it's the most famous for a reason. The self-guided, 2.5-mile tour takes you past the site of the Boston Massacre, the grave of John Hancock, the site of the final Tea Party meeting before protestors chucked leaves into the Charles … It's an easy sightseeing starting point for newcomers wanting a lay of the historical land. 

Don’t miss: After seeing Paul Revere's House, take a break and refuel with a slice of pizza from Galleria Umberto.

What is it? One of the coolest streets in the world, Boston’s version of Fifth Avenue is perfect for both shopping, dining and people-watching.

Why go? Between Arlington Street and Massachusetts Avenue, there are eight blocks of beautiful brick townhouses housing anything from ultra-luxe designers and chic boutiques to affordable international chains. With a never-ending assortment of galleries, salons, cafés, bars and eateries to explore, you can easily spend an entire afternoon browsing, relaxing and indulging here.

Don’t miss: Fans of architecure and home decor shouldn't miss a stroll through the four floors of Restoration Hardware, which is housed in the gorgeous former home of the Museum of Natural History. 

Need some guidance? Book a tour that includes Newbury Street. 

What is it? You've done a little exploring of Boston on the ground, now see what it looks like from high above at View Boston, a stunning observatory that takes up the top three floors of the iconic Prudential Tower. (That's 52 stories up!) 

Why go? The immersive attraction offers visitors a personalized perspective on the city, with interactive displays featuring tidbits about Boston art, music, history, neighborhoods and more.

Don't miss: Head out to the Observation Deck to see 360-degree views, then grab a drink at Stratus, Boston’s highest rooftop bar. 

What is it: With some essential Boston experiences under your belt, consider hoping across the Charles to spend a day in Cambridge, where an excellent day of shopping and Ivy League campus-peeping await. 

Why go: Cambridge is made up of a collection of squares, all of which offer an excellent selection of thrifts shops, home goods stores, ice cream shops, restaurants, dispensaries, bars and more. The uninitiated can get a perfect overview walking along Massachusetts Avenue between Central and Harvard squares, where the vibe is more Haight-Ashbury than Ivy League. 

Don't miss: Dinner! Cambridge is home to some of the very best restaurants in Boston. Try Judy's Bay, a hip haunt for Japanese. Puritan & Co. offers an updated spin on traditional New England fare. Urban Hearth sets a standard for farm-to-table restaurants everywhere.  

What is it? You can't visit Cambridge without at least stepping a toe on the grounds of the oldest university in the States. 

Why go? These iconic red brick walls contain some truly remarkable stories, and a visit will connect you to a Who’s Who of American history. Just imagine all the people who studied here — from John Adams to Barack Obama and Natalie Portman to Bill Gates. The Yard and overall campus features striking architecture designed by such luminaries as Bulfinch, Le Corbusier (his only American building) and Sert.

Don’t miss: Harvard’s Museum of Natural History is a fun visit. It houses some cool dioramas, an enourmous gem collection and a groundbreaking and absolutely awe-inspiring collection of glass flowers and plants. 

What is it? A couple dozen-plus recommendations on where to eat while you're in Boston, ranging from expensive to cheap and covering just about every type of cuisine. We've put in the hard work to scout out the best of the best, so all you have to do is make a reservation and enjoy.

Why we love it: For a smaller city, Boston packs quite a punch when it comes to restaurant offerings. We've got James Beard Award-winning and -nominated chefs, young and incredibly innovative restaurateurs, and a ton of options to fit any kind of appetite.

Time Out tip: Reservations, reservations, reservations — and book them as far in advance as you can.

Expect to pay: In case you haven't noticed, Boston is an expensive city to visit. That goes for food, too. A meal at a nice sit-down restaurant could set you back anywhere from $50 to $75 per person, but there are also plenty of options when you want to eat on the cheap.

What is it? Beer garden season is officially underway, with local breweries setting up al fresco bars at scenic locations all around. On offer? Beers, of course, but many also offer craft and canned cocktails, wine, food trucks and even some lawn games.

Why we love it: What's more quintessentially summer than enjoying a drink with friends under the sky and from the comfort of a lawn chair, picnic table or blanket spread out on the grass? Many of these locations give you the chance to do just that in local parks, greenways and along the water. 

Time Out tip: Some of the best options include Harpoon Brewery's setup in the heart of the city at Boston Common. For water views, hit up Night Shift Brewing on the Esplanade. Want to bounce around? Roundhead Brewery is hosting pop-up beer gardens around the city all summer. Trillium is holding things down on the Greenway. And for more of a family-oriented affair, check out Thursdays on the Lawn in Jamaica Plain. Of course, if the heat becomes too much to bear, we're always pouring delicious things under glorious AC inside Time Out Market.

Expect to spend: You could eat and drink like a queen / king on about $25 at any of these locations, especially if you go the beer route. 

What is it? A bustling, open-air Sunday market packed with tent vendors selling handmade wares, jewelry, clothing, artwork, farmers' market goods … you name it. Guests will also find artists studios, galleries and local food purveyors. 

Why we love it: This is what Sunday Fundays are made of — tent upon tent of A-plus shopping and browsing in a festival-like atmosphere, with live music, and food and drink vendors selling everything from hot dogs and bahn mi to cookies, bubble tea, popsicles and eloti. 

Time Out tip: If you're not too shopped out, don't miss a stop by the permanent SoWa Vintage Market for a delightful browse through expertly curated vintage and antique finds. 

Address: 450 and 500 Harrison Aves

Opening hours: Sun 11am–5pm

Expect to pay: $0 to enter, and the rest is pay-as-you-go.

Every Sunday, May through October SoWa hosts their Open Market, featuring hundreds of different tent vendors set up outside, artist studios, galleries and retail shops. While you shop enjoy a bite from one of the local Food Trucks. There is even a rotating schedule of DJs!

Every Sunday 11am-4pm, get more information on vendors here.

What is it? The Boston Public Library (BPL) contains approximately 19 million volumes and electronic resources, making it the second-largest public library in the U.S.—coming right behind the Library of Congress.

Why go? At nearly 1 million square feet, the main branch in Copley Square impresses in a way that few libraries can. The original structure, designed by Charles McKim and completed in 1895, now serves as the research library, while an extension (opened in 1972) functions as the general library. Talks, performances and tours delight culture vultures from near and far.

Don’t miss: At the center of the library is a cloistered courtyard, one of the city’s most beautiful, tranquil places to read a book.

Want to see more in the area? Book a tour. 

What is it? As one of Boston’s most densely-packed and unique neighborhoods, Chinatown thrills gourmands with its array of authentic eateries. 

Why go? Many of the city’s best Chinese restaurants can be found in Chinatown. Rather than sticking to one spot and eating a single big meal, walk around the area and slowly snack along the way. Some ideas: Stamp your culinary passport at Taiwan Cafe, where you can sample a selection of dumplings and more. At Peach Farm, you can select seafood straight from the tanks.

Don’t miss: Exotic hand-pulled noodles at Gene’s Chinese Flatbread Cafe.

Want to see more of the area? Book a walking tour.  

What is it? When it comes to sports culture, Boston fans are unparalleled. Witness it for yourself at one of our local team games — or try the next best thing: one of our plentiful and revelrous sports bars! 

Why Go? As you can see on this list, Boston offers an array of fantastic activities, but catching a local game is always a top choice. Whether it's experiencing the electrifying atmosphere of Red Sox fans at Fenway Park, braving the cold (with beer!) to cheer on the Patriots in Foxborough, or celebrating a Celtics or Bruins win at TD Garden, the excitement is unmatched. When attending a game isn't possible, enjoying good beer, lively company, and big screens at local bars provides a satisfying alternative.

Don't miss: Take a 60-minute guided tour of Fenway Park using Get Your Guide to see where Jimmy Fallon and Drew Barrymore filmed scenes for their 2005 romance, Fever Pitch.

What is it? Located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library, the Mapparium is essentially a three-story model of the globe built to scale. 

Why go? This colorful sphere runs 30 feet in diameter and can be crossed by means of a glass bridge bisecting its interior. Inside, sound bounces off the room’s rounded walls, amplifying it tenfold, so keep in mind that there are no secrets in the sphere—no matter how softly you may whisper.

Don’t miss: The 608 stained-glass panels recreate the world as it was in the mid-1930s, when the project was completed. So keep keen eyes on those outdated borders.

Save money on tickets with a Go Boston Pass

What is it? If you've been in Boston for any length of time, you've probably checked out the Museum of Science, the MFA, the Institute of Contemporary Art and maybe even the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. But there are more under-the-radar museums that will add to your understanding of the city, from the West End Museum, paying homage to one of Boston’s almost forgotten neighborhoods; to the Museum of Bad Art (co-located with Dorchester Brewing Company!).

Why go? These niche museums present art and artifacts, mostly with a hyper-local focus. 

Don't miss: The Gibson House Museum in Back Bay is a 1859 rowhouse, and a time capsule of what life was like in Boston from the mid-19th to early-20th centuries.

What is it? New England’s largest aquarium and one of Boston’s most popular attractions.

Why go? More than 80 African, rockhopper and little blue penguins live in the New England Aquarium’s first-floor display. Watch them go wild during feeding time in front of the Giant Ocean Tank, a massive coral reef exhibit that's home to a myriad of other marine creatures, including sharks and loggerhead sea turtles. The building is designed in such a way that the penguins can be seen from multiple vantage points. 

Don’t miss: Be sure to say hi to the harbor seals in their enclosure outside, which is free and open to the public.

What is it? The city’s quaint zoo is a kid-friendly local favorite.

Why go? As fascinating as animals seem on the TV screen, they’re far more impressive in real life. The zoo—whose mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain endangered species—is home to zebras, gorillas, giraffes and a host of other exotic animals that you definitely wouldn’t normally see in the wilds of New England. 

Don’t miss: Franklin Park Zoo recently welcomed a handsome 6-year-old clouded leopard named Jye. Stop by to say hello in the Tropical Forest Pavilion. 

What is it? There are many ways to cruise around Boston Harbor, from expert-led boat tours to yachting experiences with dinner and drinks.

Why go? Many Bostonians agree, the city’s skyline is best viewed from Boston Harbor. Plus, have you sat in traffic lately? Some day trips are much better by boat. From Boston, you can take a ferry to Salem, Hingham or Provincetown.

Don’t miss: The classic harbor vessel Spirit of Boston recently got a top-to-bottom makeover with more modern fixtures and finishes. Check out Boston Harbor City Cruises for a variety of brunch, dinner and evening events on board this and other vessels.

What is it? Whale watching isn’t just for school field trips. Hop on one of the boats departing Boston Harbor daily and rediscover how awesome it actually is to get that close to one of the largest mammals on Earth.

Why go? The waters surrounding Boston offer some of the best whale watching opportunities in the U.S., and May to October is considered peak season. Bring a sweater, park yourself at the hull of the boat for the day and keep your eyes on the water. 

Don’t miss: Don’t make the rookie mistake of shunning sun protection while on the water, else you’ll resemble one of our famous New England lobsters.

What is it? Kayaking tours on the Charles River, which runs from Boston Harbor out towards Hopkinton.

Why go? Our city loves that dirty water, especially now that it isn't quite as dirty anymore. On warm days, the Charles is flowing with activity, with everyone from the Harvard Crew Team to casual kayakers putting their watercrafts into the river. 

Don’t miss: If you want a piece of the aquatic action and don’t own a boat, rentals are available from organizations like Paddle Boston and Community Boating Boston. 

What is it? A National Historic Landmark and one of the best preserved landscapes designed by the famous Frederick Law Olmsted. 

Why go? With thousands of trees, shrubs and woody vines, this Roslindale gem is recognized as one of the most comprehensive and well-documented botanical gardens worldwide. 

Don’t miss: A serene stroll along the pine needle-strewn Conifer Path, which can bring zen to the busiest of busy minds.   

What is it? A number of beautiful, breezy beaches in the city and beyond are worth checking out as temperatures warm up.

Why go? Some of the best stretches of sand can be accessed by public transit. Crane Beach offers a shuttle bus from the Ipswich commuter rail station throughout the summer, while Singing Beach and Good Harbor Beach are also accessible by the commuter rail. Wollaston Beach, meanwhile, is the largest public beach along Boston Harbor and is on the Red Line.

Don’t miss: If you head to one of Southie's beaches, grab lunch from the beloved local institution Sullivan’s Castle Island, a snack shack selling fried seafood, lobster rolls and hot dogs.

What is it? The Esplanade, a public park running parallel to the Charles River, is a beautiful greenspace and trail network where locals flock for fresh air and exercise. 

Why go? The Esplanade attracts runners, cyclists or anyone looking to take a stroll. If you’re lucky, you can snag one of the highly coveted benches that are peppered throughout this pedestrian paradise for some good people-watching. 

Don’t miss: Night Shift hosts an incredibly popular beer garden on the Esplanade through summer. Organizers say this year's offering should open sometime the first of May. 

What is it? Jamaica Pond, part of Boston's Emerald Necklace of parks, is a picturesque, glacial kettle hole and the perfect place for an afternoon sail or stroll.

Why go? Courageous Sailing offers sailing instruction and a new fleet of kayaks and standup paddleboards out of the Jamaica Pond Boathouse. 

Don't miss: After a hard day of sailing, hit up JP Licks on Centre Street in Jamaica Plain for an ice cream or shake, or opt for beer and dive bar vibes at nearby Brendan Behan. 

What is it? The city’s premier artistic hub, SoWa Artists Guild at 450 Harrison Ave. is a veritable hive of creative activity. 

Why go? Many artists open their doors a few times a month for open studio events, where they greet South End residents and visitors. Sundays and first Fridays (5-9pm) is the flagship event, where more than 200 artists, galleries, shops and showrooms welcome the public for an evening of art, wine, cheese and mingling each month.

Don’t miss: On Sundays starting May 4, get your fill of art as well as locally grown produce and artisan-made goods at the wonderful SoWa Open Market.

What is it? A neighborhood tradition, where local yuppies finish the weekend strong with long, boozy brunches. Wimps need not apply. 

Why go? In more recent years, South Boston has become known for its high concentration of young professionals who are always down for a good time. Sundays are no exception, and nearby restaurants cater to the crowds with creative brunch specials, buckets of bubbles and lots of beer. Kick off your Sunday Funday festivities at popular brunch spots like Lincoln, The Broadway and Loco. True troopers continue their day drinking at bars like Stats and Lucky’s Lounge. 

Don’t miss: Hydrating, especially if you’re over the age of 25 and have work on Monday morning. 

What is it? Given the area’s renowned reputation for the sciences, it’s no surprise that Boston has a bevy of talented mixologists.

Why go? Why go out for a simple beer when you can order an immersive sensory experience in a glass? For a truly mind-blowing cocktail, head to local trailblazers like Farmacia and Equal Measure (which was just named a best bar in North America), both of which offer an expansive list of truly unexpected sips.

Don’t miss: For a next-level experience, try cocktails featuring house-made tinctures and shrubs at Parla. The North End spot even offers a dice game that lets you gradually unlock a secret drink menu.

What is it? For a city that’s often limited by its strict, booze-related blue laws, we sure have a fine collection of breweries. 

Why go? Historically, Boston's most recognizable brewer was Samuel Adams, the revolutionary and “maltster” for whom the city's biggest beer brand is clearly named. Suds-loving tourists should certainly visit the Samuel Adams Brewery in Jamacia Plain, but an exploration of Boston's booming craft brew scene should also take priority. Join locals in tasting small-batch, farmhouse-style ales at Fort Point’s Trillium Brewing Company; experimental suds at Somerville’s Aeronaut Brewing Company, founded by a science-focused trio with MIT connections; and inventive brews at Roundhead Brewing Company in Hyde Park, which also makes some of the best pizza around. 

Don’t miss: Any of the lively, beer-fueled festivities at the Harpoon Brewery.

What is it? Boston is famous for its fresh seafood, so enjoying a dozen local oysters at one of the city’s top raw bars is a must.

Why go? Ever since the Union Oyster House opened in 1826, raw oysters have been integral to Boston’s culinary scene. Today, these briny bivalves appear on restaurant menus throughout the city. You'll find locally sourced varieties including Wellfleet, Cotuit and Glidden Point as well as popular imports like Kumamotos. Oyster happy hours are a great way to sample these goodies at a lower price.

Don’t miss: Island Creek Oysters' farm is a destination-worthy day trip in Duxbury, about an hour south of Boston. The outdoor raw bar boasts views of the harbor where these delicious delicacies grow and thrive. 

What is it? Boston’s collection of cozy, welcoming Irish pubs like The Burren and The Druid all but guarantee a lively night of craic. 

Why go? In a city chock full of proud Irish expats and Irish-Americans, it’s little wonder why Boston is brimming with an excess of quality pubs. To get the full experience, head in on a spirited trivia night, or during a live performance of authentic Irish music.

Don’t miss: For a centrally located option with nightly live tunes, look no further than the Black Rose.

What is it? There are many opportunities to laugh your socks off this season at one of Boston's veteran comedy clubs and other venues. The Improv Asylum in the North End has a loyal following, especially when it comes to the more risque late-night shows.

Why go? Some of America’s most popular contemporary comedians like Conan O’Brien and Bill Burr honed their craft in Greater Boston.

Don't miss: Think you have what it takes to crack some jokes for a crowd? Consider one of the improv classes at Improv Asylum this spring. 

What is it? The food hall trend is strong in Boston, with a wealth of them thriving around the city.

Why go? Offering numerous cuisines and drink options all in one spot, food halls are a great choice when you’re dining with a group—there’s something for everyone. They make for a great anytime meeting spot; just show up and see what kind of mood you’re in.

Don't Miss: Eataly is a haven for Italian food enthusiasts. The Boston Public Market is a quaint visit with fresh produce, cheeses, prepared foods and even home goods. And Time Out Market Boston showcases the best of the city under one roof. 

What is it? The former estate of Massachusetts merchant Julian de Cordova hosts the region’s premier outdoor sculpture park.

Why go? West of the city in the leafy suburb of Lincoln, the 35-acre deCordova Museum & Sculpture Park attracts art lovers year-round. Even during the dog days of summer, it's the perfect place to get some fresh air while checking out world-class art. The ever-changing indoor exhibits provide shelter from the sometimes-fickle elements.

Don’t miss: Yoga sessions, moonlight sculpture tours, live music and more special outdoor events this spring.

What is it? The tragic Salem Witch Trials of 1692 is unfortunately what put the city on the map. But nowadays, the quaint downtown and beautiful harbor offer plenty of ways to appreciate that history while having a scary-good time.

Why go? Less than one hour from Boston, Salem embraces its witchy past with special exhibitions about the Witch Trials, spooky museum and cemetery tours and more. 

Don't miss: You're gonna get a dose of "witch" no matter when you go, but Salem is more than that. Just check out Essex Street and side streets to explore a host of fun home good and clothing shops, cafés and good restaurants. 

What is it: Our guide to a dozen of the best hiking trails in and around Boston so you can enjoy the incredible nature that surrounds us.

Why we love it: Boston's proximity to a wealth of picturesque hiking spots means you can transition from city streets to scenic wooded preserves or breathtaking waterfront trails in no time. These local hikes offer the perfect antidote to urban life, allowing you to walk off the day's stresses and reconnect with nature, all just a stone's throw from the heart of The Hub.

Time Out tip: Don't forget to pack hiking shoes, sunscreen, and bug spray!

Expect to pay: Mostly nothing, though some parks require payment for admission and and/or parking.

What is it? A little slice of Las Vegas in New England, Encore Boston Harbor is a mega-casino resort just outside the city in Everett.

Why go? The 210,000-square-foot complex—which cost nearly $3 billion to build—includes 15 high-end dining and lounge venues, an ultra-premium spa and more than 600 guests rooms for the ultimate staycation. 

Don't miss: The four-season, six-acre Harborwalk features pedestrian and bike paths, a picnic park, a gazebo, viewing decks, waterfront dining and lush green space with magnificent floral displays.

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