What to do in Boston, MA

Activities, attractions and tours

Boston
Boston
Boston
Boston
Boston
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Top places to visit

1. 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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Fenway Park which includes a sporting event and night scenes as well as a large group of people

2. 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 which includes a skyscraper, landscape views and a 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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Harvard University showing a city and heritage architecture

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

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

What to do in Boston

Popular places to visit

Fenway Park which includes a sporting event and night scenes as well as a large group of people

Fenway Park

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

Fenway Park
Boston Common which includes a skyscraper, landscape views and a park

Boston Common

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
Harvard University showing a city and heritage architecture

Harvard University

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

Harvard University
TD Garden

TD Garden

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
Gillette Stadium

Gillette Stadium

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

Gillette Stadium
Copley Square

Copley Square

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

Copley Square
Harvard Square

Harvard Square

With a visit to Harvard Square, a favourite shopping spot in Cambridge, you can browse for souvenirs. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.

Harvard Square
Boston Convention and Exhibition Center

Boston Convention and Exhibition Center

During your trip, find out what's happening in Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, a top convention centre in Boston. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.

Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
New England Aquarium

New England Aquarium

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

New England Aquarium

Explore areas of Boston

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

Downtown Boston

4.5/5(94 area reviews)

The heart of America’s revolutionary history lies in the center of this city. Uncover the story of the nation and enjoy excellent arts and dining venues.

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

Back Bay

4.5/5(192 area reviews)

Parisian boulevards and elegant brownstones conjure a truly romantic atmosphere, perfect for strolling and window shopping.

Back Bay
Seaport District showing a city, a high-rise building and a river or creek

Seaport District

4.5/5(38 area reviews)

Join excited crowds enjoying harbor-side views, Revolutionary War-era landmarks, as well as superb restaurants and museums along this thriving waterfront.

Seaport District
Beacon Hill showing landscape views

Beacon Hill

5/5(3 area reviews)

Lose yourself in the charming streetscapes, historic buildings and village-like atmosphere of Boston’s oldest and wealthiest suburbs.

Beacon Hill
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North End

5/5(11 area reviews)

The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are just a few popular features of the neighbourhood. Make a stop by New England Aquarium or Old North Church while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Aquarium to get around town.

North End
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Dorchester

4/5(5 area reviews)

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Dorchester. If sightseeing is on the list, John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Fields Corner Station or Four Corners/Geneva Ave Station to see more of the area.

Dorchester

Day trip destinations from Boston

Photo by Donny Campos

Andover

Dedham

Dedham

Photo by Corinne Mason

Brockton

Brookline

Brookline

Watertown

Watertown

Photo by Xiaoqi Zhou

North Easton

Photo by Fun Travelog

Wellesley

Photo by Dawn Madden

Wenham

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 travellers 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 neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, 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 centre, 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 neighbourhoods 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.