Things to do in Boston
A historical treasure trove, Boston is full of fascinating sites crucial to America's past. Following a mostly red-brick line and linking 17 of Boston's top attractions from Paul Revere's house and the statue of Benjamin Franklin to the Bunker Hill Monument and Boston Common, the Freedom Trail is a must for history buffs and anyone sightseeing in Boston.
Travellers should head to the New England Aquarium, which features more than 70 exhibits of aquatic animals from around the world. They can marvel at the Bengal and white tigers at the Franklin Zoo, visit the Museum of Fine Arts, and get away from the buzz of the city by wandering through the first botanical garden in the United States, the Boston Public Garden.
After a long day of exploring the city, what could be better than appreciating Boston from a distance aboard a sunset cruise on one of the many boats that leave the harbour, sipping on a glass of wine and enjoying a magnificently prepared seafood dinner?
Visitors keen on viewing a number of the city's greatest sights would be wise to get a Go Boston Card, which grants travellers admission to more than 70 of the best activities, tours and attractions in the city.
Nantucket
Thirty miles (48km) off the coast of Cape Cod, the small and remote island of Nantucket is an escape from city stress and the chaos of everyday life. The land has miles of unspoilt…
Nantucket
Thirty miles (48km) off the coast of Cape Cod, the small and remote island of Nantucket is an escape from city stress and the chaos of everyday life. The land has miles of unspoilt beaches, rolling wind-swept moors, solitary windmills and lighthouses, church steeples, and peaceful lanes. Its only settlement, Nantucket Town, was once the whaling capital of the world and retains much of its 17th to 19th-century character through historic mansions, old-fashioned street lamps, and cosy inns lining the cobblestone streets. Bar a few villages, the rest of the island is mainly residential. There isn't a billboard, fast-food franchise or flashing neon light in sight.
Nantucket has long appealed to wealthy visitors and has grown to a summer holiday retreat for nearly 50,000 tourists. Despite the increasing amount of luxury houses going up, more than 36 percent of the land is protected from development and the island still feels like a romantic paradise. The excellent Whaling Museum is an added attraction to the beaches, strolling and biking, and window-shopping at the exclusive boutiques. July and August are the most popular months and the busiest period, though thick fog often covers the island at this time.
Freedom Trail
The two and a half mile (4km) Freedom Trail follows a line of red bricks, or a painted red line on the pavement, linking 17 historic sights associated with the early struggle for f…
Freedom Trail
The two and a half mile (4km) Freedom Trail follows a line of red bricks, or a painted red line on the pavement, linking 17 historic sights associated with the early struggle for freedom from British control and the events leading up to the revolution. Markers identify the stops and provide information from downtown to the North End, Charlestown and Bunker Hill Monument. Sights along the way include Paul Revere House, Boston's second oldest surviving house that was home to the famous revolutionary.
The Old North Church is also nearby, where two lanterns were hung in the belfry to warn the revolutionaries of the British movements while Revere went on his famous horse ride to warn of imminent British attack. The elegant Old State House was the seat of British colonial government and where the Declaration of Independence was read in 1776. There's a museum of Boston history inside. At the Old South Meeting House, Samuel Adams addressed the revolutionaries in the significant meeting prior to the Boston Tea Party, and a circle of cobblestones marks the site of the Boston Massacre.
In Charlestown, the USS Constitution, also known as 'Old Ironsides', is the oldest warship still afloat. Its name was earned after the sinking of the British frigate, HMS Guerriere, during the war of 1812. Bunker Hill Monument is the site of the first formal battle of the American Revolution, fought in 1775.
Also along the trail is the beautiful white steeple of Park Street Church, the site of several important anti-slavery speeches, and the Old Granary Burying Ground, where a number of revolutionaries are buried. Add to that the Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall that once were meeting places for revolutionaries as well as bustling marketplaces. Although a complete self-guided trail, the National Park Service also conducts free tours with guides in historic costumes that cover some of the trail's highlights.
Website www.thefreedomtrail.org
Black Heritage Trail
Today, Beacon Hill brings to mind images of affluence and luxurious living. Yet until the end of the 19th century, it contained a free black community and escaped slaves who owned …
Black Heritage Trail
Today, Beacon Hill brings to mind images of affluence and luxurious living. Yet until the end of the 19th century, it contained a free black community and escaped slaves who owned businesses, built houses and schools, and worshipped together in the churches. Although the black community has since shifted to other parts of Boston, the Black Heritage Trail covers 14 sites important in local black history.
Massachusetts was the first state to abolish slavery in 1783. Beginning at the Boston Common, there's a memorial to slave abolitionist Robert Shaw who led the first black regiment recruited during the Civil War. Various sites on Beacon Hill include homes of famous citizens, the city's first racially integrated public school with exhibits portraying the struggle for equal school rights, and a house that was part of the famous Underground Railroad that sheltered runaway slaves from their pursuers.
The African Meeting House, part of the Museum of Afro-American History, is one of the most interesting stops on the trail. It was one of the first black churches in the United States, known as Black Faneuil Hall during the anti-slavery campaign. Here, famous abolitionist speeches were made and black people were called to take up arms in the Civil War. There's an informative audiovisual presentation in the gallery. Although a self-guided trail with brochures and maps provided by the Museum of Afro-American History, park rangers also give free daily two-hour tours, which start at the National Park Service Visitor Center.
Website www.nps.gov/thingstodo/black-heritage-trail-tour.htm
Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum
Moored to the bridge is the Beaver II, known as the Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum, and one of the three ships stormed by patriots in 1773 as an act of rebellion against British …
Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum
Moored to the bridge is the Beaver II, known as the Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum, and one of the three ships stormed by patriots in 1773 as an act of rebellion against British rule and in particular against the new tax laws imposed on tea. A group of revolutionaries dressed as Mohawk Indians burst from the South Meeting House and boarded the ships that were loaded with tea. They emptied the crate contents into the harbour in an event known as the Boston Tea Party. The Beaver II is an exact replica of the original Beaver I and visitors can learn about the event onboard the ship. The museum has recently been renovated and improved, receiving rave reviews from visitors of all ages.
Website www.bostonteapartyship.com
MIT Museum
The MIT Museum is located in Cambridge, near the campus of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, one of the most prestigious universities in the US. The relatively small museu…
MIT Museum
The MIT Museum is located in Cambridge, near the campus of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, one of the most prestigious universities in the US. The relatively small museum houses technology-themed collections. These include holograms, artificial intelligence, robotics, and maritime history, placing specific importance on MIT's contributions to the history of technology. Some of the most interesting exhibits are those of the MIT Hacks, elaborate pranks pulled by students each year. Visitors shouldn't miss the Arthur Ganson gallery of kinetic sculptures, which is also something special.
Website web.mit.edu/museum
Cambridge
Just across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge is actually a city in its own right. But the two cities are so closely associated that many people believe them to be one and t…
Cambridge
Just across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge is actually a city in its own right. But the two cities are so closely associated that many people believe them to be one and the same. Cambridge is home to two of the most prestigious centres for education in the country, Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It has a young and vibrant atmosphere due to the 30,000 university students from around the world that reside and study here. The city centres on Harvard Square, a gathering spot that reflects the international culture of its learning community as well as the influence of its students, residents, and business owners. Surrounding the square and lining the streets that spread out from Harvard Square are dozens of bookstores and music shops, cafes, coffee houses, and restaurants. Harvard Square, occupied on one side by the university, is a lively mixture of students and professors, buskers, evangelists, and political campaigners, and is a great place to have a cup of coffee, watch the activity, and soak up the atmosphere.
Website www.harvardsquare.com
Harvard University
Established in 1636, Harvard University is the oldest in the country and one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the USA. It's famous for its brilliant facul…
Harvard University
Established in 1636, Harvard University is the oldest in the country and one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the USA. It's famous for its brilliant faculties, which have produced economists, biologists, prize-winning poets, and famous graduates such as President John F. Kennedy. It's perhaps equally well-known for its famous dropouts, such as actor Matt Damon and tech icon Bill Gates. The focal point of the university is Harvard Yard, a courtyard surrounded by ivy-covered colonial buildings from the 18th century named for John Harvard, a graduate of Cambridge University in Britain, who died leaving the college half his estate and his entire library. The shoe of John Harvard's statue is rubbed for good luck. Harvard also has some outstanding museums, including the Harvard Art Museums, the Fogg Art Museum, and the Museum of Natural History. The huge art collection covers works from the European Renaissance period to the modern day, including works by Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, and Klee. The Bush-Reisinger and Arthur Sackler Museums are included in the same ticket while the Natural History Museum is renowned for its display of hand-blown glass flowers.
Website www.harvard.edu
Boston Public Garden
The first botanical garden in the United States, the Boston Public Garden provides a tranquil escape from the fast pace of the city centre. Maintained by the Boston Parks and Recre…
Boston Public Garden
The first botanical garden in the United States, the Boston Public Garden provides a tranquil escape from the fast pace of the city centre. Maintained by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and the Friends of the Public Garden, the botanical garden is a must-see on any exploration of Boston. With more than 600 varieties of trees and colourful displays of well-ordered decorative flowers, visitors can go for a relaxing swan boat ride on the three acre lagoon, enjoy the attractive vista of the city's sardined skyscrapers through the trees, or take pleasure in the numerous public works of art that border the meandering paths. The gardens are a great stop for families wanting a break from sightseeing.
Website www.friendsofthepublicgarden.org
The Berkshire Hills
Sprinkled with small New England towns, country shops, and green hillsides that turn to a kaleidoscope of golden colours in autumn, the Berkshires are a popular weekend destination…
The Berkshire Hills
Sprinkled with small New England towns, country shops, and green hillsides that turn to a kaleidoscope of golden colours in autumn, the Berkshires are a popular weekend destination from Boston, and in winter the snow-covered peaks and cross-country tracks lure skiers from around the region.
The Berkshires skiing community is well-served by the heavy snowfall in the area. The hillsides are dotted with grand country estates and Victorian mansions that were once the summer residences for wealthy families from Boston and New York, and today have become inns or museums.
Many have converted their grounds to outdoor venues for summertime music, theatre, and dance performances, attracting thousands of visitors every summer. Perhaps most notable is the Boston Symphony Orchestra that performs at the Tanglewood Estate in Lenox. These performances, as well as several museums and art institutions, have turned the region into the summer culture capital of New England.
Further north it's easy to escape the crowds, especially along the scenic route known as the Mohawk Trail, which historically was used by the Native Americans to travel between valleys, and there are beautiful views and vistas as it winds through miles of state parks and forests.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
A great Boston day trip and shopping destination, Faneuil Hill Marketplace offers superb shopping at some familiar designer stores, quality arts and crafts, as well as great restau…
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
A great Boston day trip and shopping destination, Faneuil Hill Marketplace offers superb shopping at some familiar designer stores, quality arts and crafts, as well as great restaurants and sidewalk cafes. Four places in one, Faneuil Hall Marketplace encompasses Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market. Set around a cobblestone promenade, the market is a haven for the performing arts with jugglers, mimes, musicians, and magicians entertaining passers-by. Centrally located and operating for more than 250 years, the Faneuil Hill Marketplace is the hub of Boston city life.
Website www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com
Boston Museum of Fine Arts
An artwork in itself, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston houses some of the most famous European paintings in the US. Boston's oldest, largest, and best-known art institution, the M…
Boston Museum of Fine Arts
An artwork in itself, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston houses some of the most famous European paintings in the US. Boston's oldest, largest, and best-known art institution, the MFA's collection is one of the planet's most comprehensive, with something like 22,000 artworks including masterpieces by some of the finest artists in the world. With a striking collection of Impressionist paintings, Egyptian sculptures, and a moving exhibition of Japanese and other Asian artworks, visitors should make sure they have ample time to explore the exhibition rooms of the MFA. They can also have a break and enjoy a coffee or lunch at one the three gallery restaurants or browse the outstanding museum bookstore and shop.
Website www.mfa.org
Codzilla
Codzilla takes passengers on a high-speed cruise around Boston's harbour. People on board will scream in pure delight as the boat curves, spins, and rips through the harbour for 40…
Codzilla
Codzilla takes passengers on a high-speed cruise around Boston's harbour. People on board will scream in pure delight as the boat curves, spins, and rips through the harbour for 40 minutes. They will be travelling at a heart-pumping 40 miles (70km) per hour. Reservations are recommended. Very young kids may be frightened, but generally the whole family will relish the thrill. Numerous other boat tours and cruises are available in Boston's harbour, with more sedate options for those who aren't keen on braving Codzilla.
New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is home to Simons IMAX Theatre and the New England Aquarium Whale Watch, which runs from April through October. It features a plethora of some of the world…
New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is home to Simons IMAX Theatre and the New England Aquarium Whale Watch, which runs from April through October. It features a plethora of some of the world's most amazing marine species, such as the impressive giant pacific octopus, sand tiger shark, green sea turtles, and North Atlantic Right whales. It's an absolute must for children of all ages and any adult in love with the underwater world. The aquarium is a wonderful family attraction for a rainy day. Basic admission includes the aquarium, though the IMAX and Whale Watch charge additional fees.
Website www.neaq.org/index.php
Cape Cod
Cape Cod is the premiere holiday destination in New England thanks to its charming historic towns and small villages, miles of sandy beaches, and wind-sculpted sand dunes. Millions…
Cape Cod
Cape Cod is the premiere holiday destination in New England thanks to its charming historic towns and small villages, miles of sandy beaches, and wind-sculpted sand dunes. Millions of visitors from around the world flock to the amazing natural beauty of the Cape and, although known as a playground for the rich and famous and mostly geared for big spenders, there's plenty of sun, sea, and sand for everyone to enjoy.
Provincetown, at the tip of the Cape's 'fist', is the happy centre of New England and long renowned as an artistic colony with more than 20 art galleries. It's also the liveliest resort town on the Cape.
Wellfleet is a quieter, more picturesque town that's untouched by commercial development, and famous for its oysters.
Cape Cod is primarily a beach holiday destination and the best stretches of shoreline include the Nauset Light Beach and Coast Guard Beach of Eastham, as well as the other three beaches that make up the protected stretch of the National Seashore.
The destination is also home to a number of charming lighthouses that draw sightseers throughout the year. Though there were more than 20 on the peninsula at one point, many of them were decommissioned and knocked down. Of the remaining lighthouses, some are easy to reach, while others require a hike. Some of the most popular, and easiest to get to, include Chatham Light and Nobska, which offers a spectacular view of Martha's Vineyard. Some that involve more walking are Cape Cod Light and Race Point Light.
Marthas Vineyard
Martha's Vineyard is a favourite summer destination for New England's wealthy elite. Far less developed than Cape Cod but more sophisticated than neighbouring Nantucket Island, the…
Marthas Vineyard
Martha's Vineyard is a favourite summer destination for New England's wealthy elite. Far less developed than Cape Cod but more sophisticated than neighbouring Nantucket Island, the main economy is tourism and holidays here are dominated by simple pleasures such as the weekly farmers' market, and walks on the miles of coastal pathways.
Although it's a peaceful place, Martha's Vineyard does host many events in the summer months, which keeps things lively. The influx of people in summer raises prices and makes the overall character less serene, so that some travellers prefer to visit off-season. Visiting outside of the busy summer period (June to August) also increases the chance that some of the private beaches in the area will be open to the public.
The six towns of Martha's Vineyard have distinct characters. Upmarket Vineyard Haven is the island's main port and receives ferries as well as private yachts. The fun centre of Oak Bluffs is home to the old Flying Horses Carousel, pizza takeaways, and ice-cream parlours that cater to the young and carefree. The graceful Edgartown has quaint inns, historic whaling captains' homes and stylish boutiques lining the narrow streets, and is the island's oldest settlement.
Fenway Park
The Boston Red Sox are a much-beloved part of life in New England. The 'Curse of the Bambino' and their infamous near 100-year losing streak only made their supporters more fanatic…
Fenway Park
The Boston Red Sox are a much-beloved part of life in New England. The 'Curse of the Bambino' and their infamous near 100-year losing streak only made their supporters more fanatical. Fenway Park is the oldest Major League Baseball stadium still in use, and has quirky features such as The Triangle, Pesky's Pole, and the famous Green Monster left-field wall. Visitors will notice a lone red seat in the right-field bleachers, which is where Ted Williams hit the longest home run at Fenway, measuring 502 feet (153m). A baseball game at Fenway Park is a must for any summertime trip to Boston, hot dog, crackerjacks and all.
Website www.mlb.com/redsox/ballpark
Sam Adams Brewery
Visitors to Boston can take an informative tour of the Sam Adams Brewery and get a look at the brewing process for the popular beer. Named for the revolutionary war hero, the beer …
Sam Adams Brewery
Visitors to Boston can take an informative tour of the Sam Adams Brewery and get a look at the brewing process for the popular beer. Named for the revolutionary war hero, the beer has been brewed in Boston since the 1980s. The tour showcases the entire process and allows visitors to taste the special malts used. Tours depart roughly every 45 minutes and last about one hour, with a free glass included for visitors using the Go Boston Card. The brewery does not accept reservations, but they do recommend that visitors arrive fairly early in the day to avoid long waits, especially on Saturdays. All donations benefit local charities.
Website www.samueladams.com