10 Boston Attractions You Can’t Miss
Including the Freedom Trail, Harborwalk, and plenty of great shopping opportunities.
If you can’t find anything to do in the Boston metropolitan area, you just aren’t looking hard enough. Here are 10 great suggestions to highlight your stay in Beantown.
In This Article
1. See the Freedom Trail
Boston’s Freedom Trail is 2.5 miles of pure history that showcases the city’s rich background. The red brick path extends from Bunker Hill to Boston Common and is filled with fascinating historical sites. Take a self-guided tour or follow a knowledgeable guide clad in authentic Revolutionary garb.
2. Get Educated on Education
Cambridge is home to two of the United States’ best universities – Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The area has amazing architecture, delicious dining, good shopping and a diverse student culture. Stops at historic Harvard Yard and the Longfellow House (home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow) are both worth your time.
See where Cambridge falls on our list of 10 Best College Towns
3. Feast Your Eyes on Art
The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston hosts a huge collection of exquisite artwork from around the globe. Tours range from 30 to 60 minutes and focus on a particular area of the museum, giving in-depth insight into some of the museum’s most precious masterpieces.
4. Head North
Boston’s North End is a food lover’s paradise, with the area highlighted by dozens of restaurants that make mouths water and bellies growl in anticipation. To burn off some of those calories, stroll through the area’s numerous shops and boutiques.
Boston: One of the 8 Best Cities for Walking to Work
5. Explore the Waterfront
The Boston Harborwalk is an excellent place for families or couples to spend an afternoon. The area offers fascinating shops, well-kept parks, public art and cozy cafés. When the weather is good, the views from the harbor will please anyone who appreciates maritime charm.
6. Go Mad for Science
Families with children cannot miss out on the Museum of Science. The hands-on exhibits allow visitors to do things like touch reptiles and see how lightning is created. The museum also has an IMAX theater featuring a five-story screen that immerses visitors in educational cinematic experiences.
Red Sox Nation: One of the 10 Best Baseball Fanbases in America
7. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Every town has its share of bakeries and candy shops, but not every city has Captain Jackson’s Historic Chocolate Shop. Costumed employees showcase an 18th century chocolate experience, and daily demonstrations show how Victorian chocolatiers made their treats.
8. Shop Like You Mean It
Anyone who lacks self-control is bound to empty their wallet when they visit the eight-block wonder that is Newbury Street. While some chain stores make their home here, unique shopping venues dominate the street. The shops sell practically everything, including clothing, art, home wares and beauty treatments.
Best Places to Dine in Boston with a View
9. Walk in the Garden
A stroll through Boston’s Public Garden wraps visitors in Victorian botanical charm. Monuments, fountains and well-kept pathways accent the lush and colorful vegetation, while swan boats operate in the park as they have for more than 100 years. A ride on one of the boats is a great way for families to see the garden from a different perspective.
10. Check out the Library
Boston Public Library has more than one claim to fame. It was the first big municipally-funded library in the United States, and it is adorned with beautiful architecture. Even those who don’t love reading will enjoy the majestic building, the peaceful courtyard and the charming café.