Things to do in Boston

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Quincy Market showing a city, an administrative buidling and heritage architecture
Quincy Market showing a city, an administrative buidling and heritage architecture
Longfellow Bridge which includes a city, a bridge and a river or creek
Seaport District featuring heritage elements, a bay or harbor and night scenes
Boston Public Garden showing a bridge, boating and a river or creek
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Boston must see attractions

1. Boston Common

Boston Common is the place where locals and tourists alike come to picnic, enjoy musical performances and play. It’s also the start of the Freedom Trail, and is often buzzing with eager tourists ready to begin their exploration of Boston’s Revolutionary-era landmarks. But before you hit the trail, don’t forget to spend a little time in this fabulous 50-acre (20-hectare) public park.
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Boston Common showcases lush greenery and city skyline under a clear blue sky during a sunny day

2. Fenway Park

There’s no better way to experience Boston at play than to grab a ticket to a baseball game at Fenway Park. Home of the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is among the oldest and most beloved ballparks in the country.
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Aerial image of Fenway Park

3. Harvard University

For a truly educational experience pay a visit to Harvard University, the oldest institute of higher learning in the U.S. Universities don’t come much more prestigious, or prettier, than Harvard. Founded in 1636, it’s one of the “Ivy League” schools. This term refers to a group of eight elite northeastern US universities known for their high academic standards. It was first coined in the 1930s and referred to football competition between older universities, with ivy-covered buildings.
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Visitors explore Harvard University campus on a sunny day in Cambridge, Massachusetts

4. New England Aquarium

The jutting angles and glittering glass panels of the New England Aquarium exterior look almost like shards of ice cracking in Boston Harbor. Within its modern walls, get acquainted with the thousands of marine animals that call this aquarium home.
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New England Aquarium which includes marine life and interior views

5. Boston Harbor

Ever since Boston Harbor was discovered by John Smith of “Pocahontas” fame, it has been at the forefront of this proud city’s identity. A major and somewhat dirty port for centuries, Boston’s harbor had a massive clean-up in the late 20th century. Now you can enjoy its substance and style.
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Boston Harbor showing a sunset and a bay or harbor

6. Copley Square

Head to the heart of Boston’s upscale Back Bay neighborhood to Copley Square. This small green space surrounded by architectural treasures, some of which date back more than a century, is the perfect place to take a break. In the warmer months, mingle with local families and office workers cooling off by the impressive Copley Square Fountain. Or, time your visit with the bi-weekly farmers’ market, which draws hundreds of foodies.
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Copley Square showing a city, heritage architecture and flowers

What to do in Boston

Discover the most popular places to visit in Boston

Boston Common showcases lush greenery and city skyline under a clear blue sky during a sunny day

Boston Common

4.5/5(4,786 reviews)

The oldest public park in the United States has been the stage for centuries of drama. These days it’s the perfect place to unwind.

Boston Common
Boston's Zakim Bridge

TD Garden

4.5/5(1,780 reviews)

Catch an event at TD Garden during your trip to Boston. Attend a sporting event or visit the notable monuments in this vibrant area.

TD Garden
Nighttime baseball game at Fenway Park showcasing a vibrant atmosphere in Boston, Massachusetts

Fenway Park

4.5/5(2,499 reviews)

Catch a game or take a tour at one of America’s most historic and beloved ballparks.

Fenway Park
Gillette Stadium is also home to the New England Revolution, our pro soccer team. Tickets are easy to get and not crazy expensive. And there is always a section reserved for the hooligans, who keep the energy up for the whole stadium!

Gillette Stadium

4.5/5(388 reviews)

Catch an event at Gillette Stadium during your trip to Foxborough. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and great live music.

Gillette Stadium
Historic architecture of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts under clear blue skies

Harvard University

4.5/5(1,966 reviews)

Walk in the footsteps of presidents and Nobel laureates at one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States.

Harvard University
New England Aquarium featuring marine life

New England Aquarium

4.5/5(1,678 reviews)

From sea lions to sharks, this modern aquarium on Boston’s waterfront brings the ocean world to your fingertips.

New England Aquarium
Boston Harbor showing a sunset and a bay or harbor

Boston Harbor

4.5/5(724 reviews)

Adore Boston’s charming working harbor from the waterfront or head out by boat to get to know it more intimately.

Boston Harbor
Copley Square showing a city, heritage architecture and flowers

Copley Square

4.5/5(637 reviews)

Explore some of Boston’s finest buildings, educational and arts institutions, and shopping, or simply find a patch of grass and relax.

Copley Square
Faneuil Hall Marketplace showing a square or plaza and a statue or sculpture

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

4.5/5(3,404 reviews)

You can enjoy retail therapy at Faneuil Hall Marketplace during your trip to Boston. Attend a sporting event or visit the notable monuments in this vibrant area.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Boston

Downtown Boston which includes night scenes and a city as well as a small group of people

Downtown Boston

4.5/5(2,415 area reviews)

Densely packed with highrise buildings, this area boasts landmarks like Custom House Tower and is close to Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, and the Old State House. Find headquarters of major banks, hotels, and investment firms here.

Downtown Boston
Back Bay featuring a city, heritage architecture and street scenes

Back Bay

4.5/5(3,595 area reviews)

Victorian brownstone homes and cultural institutions like the Boston Public Library define this area. Shop at Newbury Street, Prudential Center, and Copley Place, or explore sights like Trinity Church and the John Hancock Tower.

Back Bay
Seaport District which includes a city, a river or creek and a high rise building

Seaport District

4.5/5(1,075 area reviews)

Experience a transformed industrial area with office towers, innovation labs, and 78 restaurants. Visit the Institute of Contemporary Art and easily access Downtown Boston via the Evelyn Moakley Bridge.

Seaport District
Beacon Hill lantern surrounded by lush greenery in Boston during a tranquil afternoon

Beacon Hill

5/5(43 area reviews)

Historic Federal-style rowhouses, gaslit streets, and brick sidewalks create a charming atmosphere. Explore the Boston African American National Historic Site, shop on Charles Street, and easily access MBTA stations.

Beacon Hill
Boston Harbor which includes performance art, music and a bay or harbor

North End

4.5/5(330 area reviews)

Indulge in Italian cuisine at numerous restaurants and bakeries, explore historic sites like Old North Church and Paul Revere House, and enjoy performances at NEMPAC and Improv Asylum Theater. Easily accessible via MBTA lines, buses, and ferries.

North End
Kenmore Square showing street scenes

Fenway–Kenmore

4.5/5(826 area reviews)

Home to Fenway Park and the Museum of Fine Arts, this vibrant area boasts numerous educational institutions, cultural attractions, and independent shops. Easily accessible via MBTA subway and bus lines, explore Kenmore Square and admire the iconic Citgo sign.

Fenway–Kenmore

Popular day trips from Boston

Ward Reservation is a beautiful place to walk and enjoy the nature in the middle of Andover, Massachusetts. #reflections #parks

Andover

Burlington featuring an administrative buidling and a park

Burlington

The Wayside Inn Grist Mill with water wheel and cascade water fall in Autumn.

Rockland

Aerial view panorama of Beverly Port Marina and Essex Bridge at Sandy Point in city of Beverly, Massachusetts MA, USA.

Beverly

Concord which includes a garden

Concord

Salem showing heritage architecture

Salem

Tall grasses against an early morning sky

Dedham

Serene suburban street lined with lush green spring trees in Brookline, Massachusetts, USA

Brookline

Frequently asked questions

Is Boston worth visiting?
With a mix of dining and culture, there are plenty of things to do in Boston. While you're here, check out New England Aquarium, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Boston?
Once you've checked off top attractions like New England Aquarium and Newbury Street, spend the rest of your day discovering Boston's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Boston?
The top tourist attraction in Boston is New England Aquarium, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Boston?
You can easily tick off top attractions like New England Aquarium, Newbury Street and Boston Museum of Fine Arts with a three-day getaway in Boston. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to Cambridge.
Is Boston a walkable city?
With popular neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Boston is a good place to visit on foot. Wander between New England Aquarium and Newbury Street. Then take a stroll through South Boston, located 3 kilometers from the center, and D Street - West Broadway, which is about 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Boston with kids?
If you're looking for activities and attractions for all the family, take a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Boston with kids.

What to do in Boston for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Boston, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Samuel Adams Brewery or Harpoon Brewery.
Are there free things to do in Boston?
In Boston, Newbury Street is a must-see spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to explore the best free things to do in Boston.

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