Boston vacation guide

Top things to do in Boston

• 
  Arnold Arboretum of Harvard UniversityFree★4.8

  Harvard's historic 281-acre botanical landscape and living plant museum in Boston

• 
  Boston Fire MuseumFree★4.8

  Explore historic firefighting gear and vintage engines in a restored firehouse.

• 
  Boston Public Library - Central LibraryFree★4.8

  Explore historic Renaissance architecture, stunning murals, and vast reading rooms in Boston

• 
  Boston Symphony Orchestra$$★4.8

  Experience premier classical music performances inside Boston's historic Symphony Hall.

• 
  Charles River EsplanadeFree★4.8

  A scenic riverfront park featuring trails, docks, and vibrant skyline views

• 
  Citizens Opera House$$★4.8

  Opulent historic Boston theater hosting premier Broadway shows and Boston Ballet.

• 
  Fenway Park$$★4.8

  Experience America's oldest active Major League Baseball ballpark in historic Boston.

• 
  Museum of Fine Arts, Boston$$★4.8

  Discover thousands of historic masterpieces at Boston's world-renowned fine art landmark

• 
  Public GardenFree★4.8

  Boston's historic botanical park featuring scenic floral paths and swan boats

• 
  Symphony Hall$$★4.8

  Boston's historic landmark venue renowned for world class acoustics and performances

• 
  Boston Children's Museum$$★4.7

  An interactive hands-on museum designed for curious young minds

• 
  Boston CommonFree★4.7

  America's oldest public park located in the heart of downtown Boston

All things to do in Boston →

Where to eat

• 
  Galleria Umberto$★4.8

  Iconic North End counter spot serving beloved cash-only Sicilian pizza

• 
  New Deal Fish Market$$★4.8

  A Seafood Lover's Paradise

• 
  Phin Coffee House$$★4.8

  A Cozy Corner for Coffee Lovers

• 
  Mamma Maria$$$★4.7

  Refined Italian fine dining in a historic North End townhouse

• 
  Oleana$$$★4.7

  Inventive Eastern Mediterranean small plates served in a cozy Cambridge patio

• 
  Sam LaGrassa's$$★4.7

  Iconic family-run Boston deli serving handcrafted specialty sandwiches for weekday lunch

• 
  Cafe Zing$★4.6

  A cozy indie coffee counter tucked inside Cambridge's Porter Square Books.

• 
  Flour Bakery + Cafe$$★4.6

  Acclaimed Boston bakery chain serving famous sticky buns and gourmet sandwiches.

All places to eat in Boston →

Plan your Boston trip

About Boston

As one of America's oldest cities, Boston invites visitors to explore centuries of history alongside a dynamic contemporary culture. Travelers can walk the iconic Freedom Trail starting at Boston Common, shop and dine at the lively Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and take in 360-degree city views from the View Boston observation deck. The city's picturesque harbor waterfront, distinct historic neighborhoods, and world-class institutions offer endless discovery. Whether enjoying fresh seafood by the bay or exploring historic landmarks, Boston perfectly pairs revolutionary charm with modern energy.

History

Boston was founded in 1630 and played a significant role in the American Revolution, including events like the Boston Tea Party.

Frequently asked questions

Local tips

• Visit the Freedom Trail for a historical walking tour.
• Try to avoid peak tourist seasons for a more relaxed experience.
• Use the subway (T) for quick transportation around the city.
• Explore the diverse neighborhoods for unique local experiences.
• Book tickets in advance for popular attractions.
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.
• Take advantage of free walking tours available in the city.
• Visit museums on free admission days.
• Check out local festivals if visiting in summer.
• Use public parks for picnics and relaxation.

Interesting facts

• Boston is home to the first American lighthouse.
• The Boston Marathon is the oldest annual marathon in the world.
• Boston has more college students per capita than any other city in the U.S.
• The Boston Public Library is the third largest library in the U.S.
• Boston's Fenway Park is the oldest baseball stadium in Major League Baseball.
• The city was the site of the Boston Massacre in 1770.
• Boston has a unique accent, often referred to as 'Bostonian.'
• The Boston Tea Party occurred in 1773 as a protest against British taxation.
• The Boston University Bridge is one of the few places in the world where boats can sail under a bridge and still be in fresh water.
• Boston is known for its baked beans, which is why it’s called 'Beantown.'
• Harvard University, the oldest institution of higher education in the U.S., is located in Boston.
• The Boston Symphony Orchestra is one of the 'Big Five' orchestras in the U.S.
• The city has a rich literary history, being home to authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Nathaniel Hawthorne.
• Boston's North End is famous for its Italian cuisine.
• The USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world, is located in Boston.

You might also like

• 
  New York

  New York City captivates travelers with its iconic skyline, world-class theater, and endless cultural energy across five unique boroughs. From the sprawling greenery of Central Park to towering observation decks like SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, the Big Apple offers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

• 
  Acadia National Park

  Acadia National Park protects 47,000 acres of Maine's rugged coastline, dramatic granite peaks, and lush woodlands along Mount Desert Island. Visitors can explore scenic drives, panoramic ocean vistas, and iconic landmarks like Cadillac Mountain and Sand Beach.

• 
  Philadelphia

  As the birthplace of American democracy, Philadelphia pairs rich revolutionary history with a vibrant, modern urban energy. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell before diving into a world-class culinary and arts scene.

• 
  Finger Lakes

  Famous for its eleven glacially carved lakes, award-winning wineries, and dramatic gorge waterfalls like Watkins Glen State Park, New York's Finger Lakes region is an idyllic year-round escape for wine lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.