Things to do in Boston
Boston packs a lot into a compact city, from Revolution-era landmarks to modern dining and music venues.
Boston packs a lot into a compact city, from Revolution-era landmarks to modern dining and music venues. You can walk the Freedom Trail, explore museums, catch a Red Sox game, or simply wander through parks and waterfront markets. The mix of history and current energy makes it easy to fill a day or a weekend.
Start with the Freedom Trail, which links sites like the Boston Massacre Site, Old North Church, and Bunker Hill Monument. Boston Common and the Public Garden offer green space in the middle of the city, while the Charles River Esplanade is a favorite for walks. For food, Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall Marketplace are packed with options, or try Union Oyster House for classic New England seafood. Families can head to the New England Aquarium or the Boston Children's Museum. Music fans have plenty of venues, from Symphony Hall to the intimate Paradise Rock Club. If you're looking for something unique, escape rooms like Trapology Boston add a playful challenge.
Frequently asked questions about Boston
What are the best outdoor spots in Boston?▾
Boston Common and the Public Garden are the classic choices, both with paths and plenty of benches. The Charles River Esplanade runs along the river and is great for jogging or just taking in the skyline. Castle Island, in the harbor, has a beach and fort, though the fort is only open in summer.
Where can I get fresh local food in Boston?▾
The Boston Public Market is a year-round indoor market with local produce, fish, and gourmet items. Haymarket, an outdoor greenmarket, sells fruits and vegetables on Fridays and Saturdays. For a quick bite, Quincy Market has dozens of eateries under one roof.
What are good indoor activities for families in Boston?▾
The New England Aquarium is a top pick, with a giant glass tank and walkway. The Boston Children's Museum is designed for kids 11 and under. The Museum of Science has interactive exhibits and a planetarium. If you want something active, try an escape room like Trapology Boston.
Is there a place to see live music in Boston?▾
Yes, Boston has a strong live music scene. Symphony Hall is home to the Boston Pops and has excellent acoustics. For smaller acts, Paradise Rock Club hosts up-and-coming bands. The Leader Bank Pavilion offers big-name concerts on the harbor in summer.
Where can I get a good seafood dinner in Boston?▾
Union Oyster House, open since 1826, is a historic spot for chowder and oysters. The Barking Crab is a casual waterfront joint with picnic tables and harbor views. Legal Sea Foods has several locations, including Harborside and Long Wharf, serving upscale seafood.
Upcoming events
Rewind Brunch Party
Gen‑X Joplin / URSA / Scissor Hash / Summers In Autumn
Royer’s One Man Band
Clear Audience
Aedan MacDougall / Colonel Starr / Roman Gray
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Franklin Park
This large natural area with fields, wetlands & ponds offers a zoo, golf course & sports courts.
Bunker Hill Monument
Marking the Battle of Bunker Hill, this 221-ft. granite obelisk features 294 steps & scenic views.
AMC Boston Common 19
The Friendly Toast
Trendy hangout serving all-day breakfasts in quirky surroundings, with vegan options.
Regina Pizzeria
Circa-1926 local chain for thin-crust, brick-oven pizzas in a no-frills setting.
The Barking Crab
Lively waterfront seafood joint with open-air picnic-table dining & views of the Boston Harbor.
Mike's Pastry
Outpost of an Italian bakery famous for its pastries like cannoli & lobster tails since 1946.
Macy's
Department store chain providing brand-name clothing, accessories, home furnishings & housewares.
Legal Sea Foods - Harborside
Specializing in upmarket seafood, this contemporary chain also serves steaks & cocktails.
Boston Sail Loft
Waterside maritime mainstay with floor-to-ceiling windows & seafood staples, plus bar scene.
Boston Children's Museum
Fun, hands-on educational exhibits aimed at kids 11 & under, plus a play space for toddlers.
Legal Sea Foods - Long Wharf
Specializing in upmarket seafood, this contemporary chain also serves steaks & cocktails.
WNDR Museum
South Bay Center
Shopping center boasting several big-box stores with apparel, shoes & housewares, plus restaurants.
Citizens House of Blues Boston
Rock- & blues-themed restaurant & bar serving Southern-inspired dishes, plus live music.
Boston Public Market
Year-round indoor market with scores of vendors selling local produce, fish, gourmet treats & more.
Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center
Cavernous place hosting a lineup of exhibitions & conventions throughout the year.
Trapology Boston
Interactive escape room game center offering several room themes, plus team-building workshops.
Castle Island
Site of Fort Independence (open in the summer), with beach, picnic & jogging areas.
USS Constitution Museum
Interactive museum near the 1797 wooden frigate made famous as "Old Ironsides" in the War of 1812.