Boston Bucket List: 21 Best Things to Do in Boston

Boston is one of the most rewarding cities to visit in the US – compact, walkable, and packed with character. You’ve got historic sites on nearly every corner, world-class museums, charming neighborhoods, and some seriously good food.

It’s a place where you can walk the Freedom Trail in the morning, grab Italian pastries in the North End for lunch, and spend the afternoon relaxing along the Charles River.

This guide pulls together the very best things to do in Boston, from must-see landmarks to fun day trips and local favorites. No matter what kind of trip you’re planning, it’ll help you hit all the highlights and maybe even find a few new favorites along the way.

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Best Things to Do in Boston

1. Walk the Freedom Trail

If it’s your first time in Boston, this is the place to start. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile route that connects 16 historic sites, including Paul Revere’s House, the Old North Church, and the site of the Boston Massacre.

It’s an easy walk and a great way to get your bearings while diving into the city’s revolutionary history. You can do it on your own with one of the many self-guided maps, or join a guided walking tour for extra context and fun storytelling along the way.

2. Explore Boston Common and the Public Garden

Right in the heart of the city, Boston Common and the adjacent Public Garden are perfect places to slow down for a bit. Boston Common is the oldest public park in the country, and it’s often buzzing with activity, like food trucks, local events, or students relaxing on the grass.

Across the street, the Public Garden is a little more peaceful, with winding paths, weeping willows, and the famous Swan Boats, which run seasonally. Don’t miss the Make Way for Ducklings statues, a favorite photo stop for kids and adults alike.

3. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts

One of the largest and most impressive art museums in the country, the Museum of Fine Arts is a must for anyone looking to spend a few hours indoors. Its collection spans everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Impressionist paintings, Japanese prints, and contemporary works.

If you’re building out your list of things to do in Boston for a rainy day or just want a break from the outdoors, this is the spot. The museum is massive, so you can easily spend half a day here and still have more to see.

4. Wander through Beacon Hill and snap a photo on Acorn Street

Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s prettiest neighborhoods, with gas lamps, brick sidewalks, and row houses that look straight out of a postcard. Take a walk down Charles Street for cute boutiques and cafés, then head over to Acorn Street, one of the most photographed streets in the city.

It’s a quick stop but a total Boston classic, especially if you’re into historic architecture and quiet, charming corners.

5. Visit the Boston Public Library

The Boston Public Library in Copley Square is one of the most beautiful public libraries in the country. You can walk through the grand marble staircase, explore Bates Hall with its green reading lamps, or grab a coffee in the peaceful courtyard.

Even if you’re not a book lover, it’s worth stopping by just to see the architecture. Admission is free, and it’s a great quiet spot to take a break while exploring the city.

6. Take a duck boat tour around the city

If you’re not sure what to do in Boston first, a duck boat tour is a fun way to get an overview. These boat-bus hybrids drive you through the city streets before splashing down into the Charles River for views of the skyline from the water.

It’s touristy, yes, but also genuinely entertaining, and a great option if you want to cover a lot of ground without walking!

7. Eat your way through the North End

The North End is Boston’s Little Italy and one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods for food. It’s packed with Italian restaurants, bakeries, and cafés – perfect for a pasta dinner, a slice of pizza, or a cannoli from Modern or Mike’s Pastry.

It’s also one of the top picks when deciding where to stay in Boston, especially if you want to be within walking distance of the waterfront and historic sites.

A food tour here is a great way to sample a few different spots and get some background on the neighborhood’s history. It’s an essential stop on any Boston bucket list!

8. Tour Fenway Park or catch a Red Sox game

Fenway is one of the most legendary ballparks in the country, and even if you’re not a big baseball fan, it’s still worth visiting. You can take a stadium tour for a behind-the-scenes look or, if the timing’s right, grab tickets to a Red Sox game and experience the energy of a home crowd.

It’s one of those places that really captures the local spirit and gives you a taste of Boston tradition.

9. Visit Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market

This bustling spot in the center of the city is a mix of history and food, with street performers outside and dozens of food stalls inside Quincy Market. You can grab a lobster roll, people-watch on the cobblestones, or duck into one of the shops lining the marketplace.

It’s one of the most classic things to do in Boston, and since it’s so central, it’s easy to include it even if you’re spending only one day in Boston.

10. Explore the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

This museum feels more like stepping into a Venetian palace than a traditional gallery. The building itself is stunning, with a central courtyard full of seasonal plants and flowers.

Inside, you’ll find European, Asian, and American art, all arranged exactly how Isabella Stewart Gardner wanted it, down to the frames and wall placements.

It’s a unique experience that’s just as much about the atmosphere as it is about the collection. Bonus: admission is free if your name is Isabella!

11. Join a Ghosts & Gravestones tour

If you’re wondering what to do in Boston after dark, a haunted tour is a fun way to see the city from a different angle. The Ghosts & Gravestones tour takes you to some of Boston’s spookiest historic spots, including old burial grounds and centuries-old buildings with chilling backstories.

It’s theatrical but informative, and especially popular in the fall when the city’s old cobblestone streets already feel a little eerie.

12. Stroll Newbury Street for shopping and people-watching

Stretching from the Public Garden to Massachusetts Avenue, Newbury Street is lined with boutiques, galleries, cafés, and some of the city’s most beautiful brownstones. You’ll find everything from high-end brands to local shops, along with plenty of places to stop for coffee or lunch.

It’s also one of the best streets in the city for people-watching, especially on a sunny weekend afternoon. Even if you’re not looking to shop, it’s a fun place to wander and soak up the vibe.

13. Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

This interactive museum brings one of the most famous events in American history to life, complete with live reenactments, multimedia exhibits, and the chance to toss a crate of tea into the harbor yourself. It’s fun, especially for families, but still manages to pack in plenty of historical context.

It’s one of the more unique things to do in Boston and a great stop if you’re exploring the waterfront area. Since it’s really popular, it’s best to book your tickets in advance!

14. Visit the Massachusetts State House

Sitting right on the edge of Boston Common, the State House is hard to miss with its massive golden dome. You can admire it from the outside or join a free guided tour to learn about the building’s history, architecture, and role in Massachusetts government.

It’s a quick stop but worth it, especially if you’re already exploring the Freedom Trail or spending time in the downtown area.

15. Walk along the Charles River Esplanade

This tree-lined path along the Charles River is one of the best spots in Boston for a scenic stroll or bike ride. The Esplanade stretches for miles and gives you great views of the city skyline, boats on the river, and rowers from nearby colleges.

It’s especially beautiful in the fall, but it’s worth visiting any time of year – just grab a coffee and enjoy the view!

16. Take a day trip to Salem

If you’re visiting in the fall, a day trip to Salem is practically a must! Known for its infamous 1692 witch trials, the town leans into its spooky past with museums, walking tours, and Halloween-themed events throughout October.

You’ll find even more ideas in this guide to things to do in Salem, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring.

Salem is one of the most popular picks on any list of the best day trips from Boston, and it’s easy to reach by train, ferry, or car. For a more in-depth look at the town’s history, consider joining a guided Salem day trip directly from the city.

17. Take in the views from View Boston or the Skywalk Observatory

If you’re after a panoramic view of the city, head to the top of the Prudential Center. The new View Boston observation deck offers 360-degree views of the skyline, the Charles River, and even out toward the harbor.

There are interactive exhibits, a bar, and even a rooftop terrace – perfect for photos and sunset views. It’s a fun stop to add to your Boston itinerary, especially if you’re looking to get the full lay of the land.

18. Go to the Museum of Science

This massive museum is packed with interactive exhibits covering everything from space and engineering to biology and climate science. It’s super family-friendly but fun for all ages, especially the lightning shows and the planetarium.

If you’re looking for things to do in Boston with kids or just want a fun indoor option, the Museum of Science is a solid pick. You could easily spend a few hours here and still not see it all.

19. Explore Cambridge and visit Harvard’s campus

Just across the river from Boston, Cambridge is home to both Harvard and MIT, and it’s well worth a visit! The area around Harvard Square is full of bookstores, coffee shops, and historic buildings, with a mix of students, street performers, and tourists keeping things lively.

Walking through Harvard Yard is one of those classic things to do in Boston, especially if you’re a fan of college campuses or just want a change of pace from the city center. You can also join a Harvard campus walking tour led by a current student for fun insights and trivia.

20. Take a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard

If you’re visiting during the warmer months, a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard is a great way to escape the city and enjoy a slower pace. You’ll find lighthouses, beaches, cute towns, and scenic coastal views – plus lots of spots to grab seafood!

It’s a long day, but totally doable with a guided tour from Boston that includes ferry transportation. You won’t have time to see the whole island, but even just exploring Edgartown or Oak Bluffs is worth the trip.

21. Go whale watching

From spring through early fall, whale watching is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Boston. Tours depart from the harbor and take you out into Stellwagen Bank, a rich feeding ground where you’ll often see humpbacks, fin whales, and even dolphins.

It’s an incredible way to experience the New England coast, and sightings are surprisingly reliable during peak season. You can book a whale watching tour here if it’s something you want to add to your trip!