The top 12 things to do in Boston, the city of Champions
If you’re longing for a mini vacation, you don’t have to go too far for a change of scenery and a good time. The Northeast region of the United States has tons of options for quick escapes. Boston, for example, is a wonderful and charming city to visit. This city is walkable, filled with delicious restaurants and cafés, and history buffs, as well as sports enthusiasts, will find enough activities to fill their days. The city of Champions is a true American jewel and is worth the trip, even if it’s just for a quick weekend getaway. Here are 12 unmissable things to do in Boston.
Charles River Esplanade
Fans of waterfronts and the great outdoors will certainly enjoy a beautiful walk on this trail. This 3 mile stretch of green space is a great place for a morning run or a lazy afternoon stroll. You can even bring a picnic and people-watch all afternoon if the weather permits. If you’re in Boston during the fall, you can enjoy the beautiful yellow, orange and red leaves before they disappear. Start your walk either at the Museum of Boston or the Boston University Bridge to enjoy the entire esplanade.
Boston Public Library
If you love Roman-style and Renaissance architecture or just want to get out of the rain or cold for a few minutes, visit the Boston Public Library. Located next to the Copley Square, this incredible library built in 1895, will impress even those who usually flee libraries. Known as one of the best public libraries in the United States, you can admire the giant John Singer Sargent murals and even get free architecture and art tours. You’ll come out wanting to go back to university to study in this wonderful place…
Boston Public Market
You’ve walked around, you’ve fed your mind, now it’s time to feed your tummy! Head over to the public market for some delicious local produce and treats. This is the perfect place to stock up on food for your picnic in the park or just snack while walking around. From baked goods to meats and produce, chat with friendly vendors and who knows? They might share some Boston secrets with you!
The Freedom Trail
Boston is a historical city every history buff should visit. The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walk with 16 sites, will keep you busy all afternoon (about 4 hours if you do it at a slow pace). The trail starts at the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the USA. Not keen on following a guided tour? Download the map online and make your own itinerary. Some of the highlights of this trail include the home of Paul Revere, the Old North Church, the Old State House Museum and the Faneuil Marketplace.
Sam Adams Brewery Tour
If you want to better understand Bostonians, then you’ve got to try their beer of choice. The Sam Adams Brewery tour is free and there’s one every 30 minutes. You’ll get to taste the delicious beers and learn all about the ingredients they use, how they make the beer and the history behind this famous brewery. If you’re a real beer fanatic, you can enjoy beer and cheese tastings that go from $10 to $50.
So you’ve been blessed with beautiful weather during your trip to Boston? Go out and enjoy the fresh air at the Boston Public Garden. Located right next to the Boston Common, this superb garden has a lagoon, a picture perfect suspension bridge, gorgeous flowers everywhere and tons of areas where you can relax. Enter the garden by Commonwealth Avenue entrance, the prettiest entrance to the garden. Afterwards, head to Acorn Street, a lovely cobblestone street that will transport you to another era.
The South End
The South End used to be a neighbourhood Bostonians and tourists avoided. However, this neighbourhood totally transformed into a more refined area that wealthier families have adopted. The beautiful Victorian red-brick townhouses, tree-filled streets as well as the hip boutiques and amazing restaurants have made this the place to shop and eat. Visit Flour for breakfast, lunch or for a mid-afternoon snack, and then browse the various shops and galleries nearby. This really should be in your list of things to do in Boston.
Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)
A relatively new addition to Boston, the Institute of Contemporary Art opened in 2006 and is already a Boston staple. A Diller Scofidio + Renfro design, the amazing contemporary architecture will amaze you even if you’re not a fan of architecture. Made out of glass, make sure you go visit the back of the museum where you will see a cantilevered space that looms over the Boston Harbor.
George’s Island
Looking to escape the city for a few hours? Take a ferry to George’s Island for a complete change in scenery. You’ll get a nice boat ride and a break from the city life. Bring the fresh produce you bought from the Boston Public Market and enjoy a few hours on this little island. Love spooky stories? You might spot the ghost of the Lady in Black, the wife of a prisoner who was hanged for trying to set him free. Watch out!
Bodega
Bodegas are usually small convenience stores where you can find milk, bread, canned goods, cleaning products, etc. This Bodega, however, is unlike any you’ve ever seen. Spot the Snapple vending machine, and open the door to the coolest streetwear boutique in all of Boston. With brands like Maison Kitsuné, Raised by Wolves, Yeezy and Brain Dead, fashion lovers will feel like kids in a candy store!
Back Bay
If you decide to visit the Boston Public Library and the Charles River Esplanade, you’ll already be in the Back Bay neighbourhood. Make sure to explore this affluent neighbourhood where you’ll find great shopping and dining options. Walk around Newbury and Marlborough Streets to ogle at the wonderful townhouses. Grab a coffee and enjoy a light stroll through these historical streets.
Bully Boy Distillers Tasting
This tasting room only opened in 2017 but is already quite popular with local Bostonians and tourists. If you’re a fan of handcrafted spirits like whiskey, rum, gin, vodka, etc., you will enjoy visiting and then tasting spirits at Bully Boy. They have public tours, of course, but you can also just enjoy a drink at their bar if you prefer. If you love local and handcrafted spirits, this is the place for you!
Excited for your Boston trip yet? We’ve enumerated 12 things to do in Boston but, of course, there are many other activities you can enjoy like the aquarium and visiting the North End neighbourhood. Whether you choose to stay two nights or a whole week, Boston has something for everyone and charms tourists from all over the world with its adorable accent and hospitality!
Cover photo credit: Instagram/@Boston
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