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Boston's 23 Best Attractions & Activities

Discover Boston's Historic and Cultural Treasures

Boston, steeped in colonial and Revolutionary War history, is a destination for those looking to experience America's past. The Freedom Trail is a prime starting point, linking key historic sites and modern attractions. With walkable streets and the T subway system, exploring Boston is convenient. For those wanting to cover more ground, consider renting a car.

Across the Charles River lies Cambridge, home to the esteemed Harvard and MIT, contributing to Boston's vibrant cultural and nightlife scene. Plan your visit to explore Boston's tourist attractions and activities.

1. Walk the Freedom Trail

Freedom Trail

Traverse the three-mile Freedom Trail to encounter 16 historic landmarks. Start at the Boston Common Visitor Center and visit sites like the Old Granary Burying Ground and the Old State House. The trail concludes at the USS Constitution and Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown.

Official site: www.thefreedomtrail.org

2. Fenway Park: America's Most Beloved Ballpark

Fenway Park

Experience the charm of Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox. Notable for the iconic Green Monster and its historic features, the park offers tours for fans and visitors alike.

Individual tours in Boston

3. Faneuil Hall: The Cradle of Liberty

Faneuil Hall

Faneuil Hall, a historic market hall, is surrounded by the bustling Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Enjoy street performances, dining, and shopping in this vibrant area.

Official site: www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com

4. Boston Common and Public Garden Swan Boats

Boston Common and Public Garden Swan Boats

Boston Common, America's oldest park, adjoins the Public Garden, where you can enjoy a ride on the famous Swan Boats.

Official site: http://swanboats.com

5. Museum of Fine Arts Boston

Museum of Fine Arts Boston

Explore the Museum of Fine Arts' extensive collections, including the American Wing and treasures from around the world.

Official site: www.mfa.org

6. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Visit the Venetian-style palace housing the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum's eclectic art collection.

Official site: http://www.gardnermuseum.org/home

7. USS Constitution and Bunker Hill

USS Constitution and Bunker Hill

Explore the historic USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument within the Boston National Historical Park.

Official site: https://ussconstitutionmuseum.org

8. Museum of Science

Museum of Science

Engage with over 700 exhibits at the Museum of Science, including a planetarium and an IMAX theater.

Official site: www.mos.org

9. Harvard Square and Harvard Art Museums

Harvard in the spring

Discover Harvard University's campus and the Harvard Art Museums' impressive collections.

Official site: www.harvardartmuseums.org

10. Old North Church and Boston's North End

Old North Church

Explore the historic North End, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church.

11. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Relive the Boston Tea Party at this interactive museum with full-scale ship replicas.

Official site: https://www.bostonteapartyship.com/

12. New England Aquarium

New England Aquarium

Meet aquatic animals at the New England Aquarium and enjoy whale-watching tours.

Official site: http://www.neaq.org/index.php

13. Harvard Museums and the Glass Flowers

Glass Flowers at the Harvard Museums

Marvel at the Glass Flowers and explore Harvard's extensive museum collections.

Official site: http://hmnh.harvard.edu/

14. Newbury Street & Back Bay

Café on Newbury Street

Experience the charm of Back Bay's Newbury Street, known for its shops, galleries, and eateries.

15. Boston Public Library and Copley Square

Copley Square

Visit the Boston Public Library and the architectural landmarks surrounding Copley Square.

Official site: http://www.bpl.org/

16. Boston Harbor and Whale Watching Cruises

Boston Harbor cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise in Boston Harbor or embark on a whale-watching adventure.

17. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Explore the life and legacy of JFK at this dedicated museum.

Official site: www.jfklibrary.org

18. Beacon Hill and the Black Heritage Trail

Beacon Hill

Stroll through the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood and learn about Boston's African American history.

19. Boston HarborWalk and Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

Explore the HarborWalk and enjoy the waterfront views at Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park.

20. Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway

Relax in the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, a series of parks and gardens in downtown Boston.

Official site: https://www.rosekennedygreenway.org/

21. Boston Pops and Boston Symphony Orchestra

Boston Pops and Boston Symphony Orchestra

Enjoy world-class performances by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Pops.

Official site: www.bso.org

22. Arnold Arboretum

Spring at the Arnold Arboretum

Visit the Arnold Arboretum, a living tree museum designed by Frederick Law Olmstead.