12 best ways to celebrate your birthday in Boston

What is it? We all know that Boston loves itself some tee. Puttshack is “the world’s first and only upscale tech-infused mini golf experience” and their first Boston location is in the Seaport.

Why we love it: This mini-golf meccas has two floors, spanning over 26,000 square feet. There are four nine-hole mini-golf courses and while you are playing enjoy views of Boston from the floor-to-ceiling windows and a nightclub vibe featuring local DJs every night.

Address: 58 Pier 4 Blvd., Boston, MA 02210

Opening hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-11pm; Fri. and Sat. 11am-1am; Sun. 11am-10pm

What is it? The forces behind Area Four operate this speakeasy arcade in Cambridge's Central Square that is filled with ‘80s classics like Galaga and Pacman as well as pinball machines, Mario Kart, Tetris and more.

Why we love it: Relive our youth with throwback arcade games supplemented by grilled cheese and adult beverages? Yes, please. The distinctly grownup cocktail menu impresses, as does the selection of local craft brews. You can visit as a group or make it a private affair: rent out the arcade during one of the four-hour windows during their daytime buyouts (between 11 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Friday) or any four-hour window on Sundays and Mondays. Of note, this is mostly 21+ (although there are some Saturday hours for those 18 and up).

Address: 292 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139

Opening hours: Mon.-Thurs. 5-11pm; Fri. 5pm-1am; Sat. noon-7pm (18+), 7pm-1am 21+

What is it? With all of the secret doors and back alley entrances, there are so many new speakeasies in the Boston area, it's a wonder we even know where to go. Luckily for you, we do! 

Why we love it: You can take your party back to the roaring 20s at Boston’s best speakeasies, where you can count on extraordinary cocktails and personalized vibe whether you do a buyout or just reserve a table. And if you’re up for it, why not make it a classy bar hop? Just be sure you’re familiar with all the locations before you start imbibing. Translation: they’re renowned as speakeasies for a reason - we have trouble finding them even when we're sober.

Address: Various locations in Boston

What is it? If you’re looking for a hands-on way to spend your next big day, Eataly Boston’s cooking classes are for you.

Why we love it: Though pasta-making comprises a majority of the immersive cooking class calendar, they also host a series of other workshops, like classes focusing on the sweet Italian dessert tiramisu, bouquet arranging, traditional entrees, and cocktail crafting. You’ll get the entire group involved and even learn something new.

Address: 800 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199

Opening hours: Check the website for class times and dates. 

What is it? Friendly competition with a side of beers or cocktails? Your friends will thank you for having your party at Flight Club Darts, a bar and social darts club that inspired by the heritage of darts from British pubs and fairgrounds, emphasizing camaraderie.

Why we love it: Reserve an oche (rhymes with “hockey”), which includes your own seating area and the space from the throw line to the dartboard for a small group or for a bigger bash - up to 12 people can be done online, but over that and you'll need help. Regardless of how many guests, they'll have unlimited play during your party.  

Address: 60 Seaport Blvd Suite 215, Boston, MA 02210

Opening hours: Mon.-Thurs. noon-11pm; Fri. noon-1am; Sat. 11-1am; Sun.11am-9pm

What is it? An unparalleled immersive art and technology experience in Boston's Downtown Crossing, this 17,000 square-foot museum will redefine the traditional museum experience of just standing, looking, and moving on to the next exhibit.

Why we love it: Guests are invited to fully engage and interact with artworks and multi-sensory installations created by cutting edge artists, collectives, technologists, designers, and makers. The spot has a smaller private 200-square-foot Lounge for up to 35 guests, all of which get passes to view the musuem throughout the evening.

Address: 500 Washington St., Boston, MA 02111

Opening hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-6pm; Fri. 11am-8pm; Sat. 10am-8pm; Sun. 10am-6pm

What is it? Boston has some world-class spas from the Mandarin Oriental to G2O to Encore Resort & Casino and many of them offer spa packages for small groups, so all of your friends can enjoy a little pampering in honor of you. 

Why We Love it: If you’ve ever enjoyed a couples massage and appreciated sharing the experience with someone, why not spread the joy even further? 

Address: Various locations around Boston

What is it? When you're the king (or queen) of the day, you will never strike out (unless you want to) with a party at one of Kings Bowling and Entertainment's locations.

Why we love it: While bowling reigns supreme, you and your guests will also have access to some pretty sweet arcade games, billiards and more. The menu is full of hearty dishes, but the stacked boozy milkshakes are celebration enough. The Strike Package is a favorite, with bowling, drinks and snacks all set up ahead of your arrival.  

Address: Four locations around Boston area

Opening hours: Check each location for hours

What is it? More than just a casino (although we love that part too), Encore has it all - gambling to nightclubs to celebratory restaurants and lounges.

Why we love it: You can book a room to make a day out of it, bouncing to each event of choice, all without having to worry about rides home. Start with brunch, play some slots or try your hand at Black Jack, do some shopping, indulge in a fine dining experience at Rare Steakhouse or Seamark, then hit the night club. Keep an eye out on the ever-exciting event schedule, from live DJs to comedy acts. 

Address: 1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

What is it? When you’re hosting your closest friends, there’s something for every one of them at Bosse in Natick - a new giant pickleball destination. 

Why we love it: You'll have access to state-of-the-art pickleball courts and courtside lounges, a private dining room, a restaurant led by renowned chef Chris Coombs, a Sports Bar and Lounge, plus a darts lounge, golf simulators and shuffleboard. There's even a private sports theater if you're splitting their attention with the big game.

Address: 310 Speen St., Natick, MA 01760

Opening hours: Daily 6am-11pm