Going to be in Boston for the 4th of July weekend? Check out these fun activities, events, and more to celebrate our nation’s birthday in the historic city of Boston. If you’re looking for Boston 4th of July Weekend ideas, check out these local activities and fun things do in Boston in July, including…
- Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
- Boston Harborfest
- Walking tour of The Freedom Trail
- A Fenway Park Tour
- and more...
Save on Admission to Popular Attractions
Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Boston pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Boston attractions & activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Boston attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special July and 4th of July weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Boston pass.
Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular - Charles River Esplanade
July 4

Boston Harborfest - Boston Harbor July

Walking Tour of The Freedom Trail
You could also opt to explore the wealth of historical attractions in Boston – after all, the city played an integral role in the American Revolution and our move towards independence. Take a walking tour of the Freedom Trail to retrace the footsteps of our early patriots and important historical landmarks, including the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, the Old South Meeting House, and the Old State House Museum. Getting In: Freedom Trail Walking Tour tickets are included with the Go Boston pass.
Fenway Park Tour
Explore the history and fun of Fenway Park on a guided tour, and be sure to get tickets to see the Red Sox play! See all of the park's historic features, from Pesky's Pole to Williamsburg to the Lone Red Seat. Get behind-the-scenes access to areas of the park that most visitors don't see, too, like press areas and player locker rooms and more. If you're in Boston the weekend before the 4th, plan to catch a game or two. Getting In: Fenway Park Tour tickets are included with the Go Boston pass.
Summer in the City - Boston Harbor Hotel Tuesdays - Fridays
This free festival hosted at the Boston Harbor Hotel lasts all summer long and features a top-notch selection of music and movies the whole family can enjoy. Every Friday they will show music ranging from soul to blues to jazz and more, and classic movies. This 4th of July, you'll get to choose from a movie on the day of, or opt to see one the Friday before. Enjoy live waterfront entertainment and al fresco dining at one of the most beautiful hotels in the entire city. Getting In: Summer in the City film viewings are free to attend
Outdoor Activities

Water Activities & Cruises
If you want to cool off from the July heat, enjoy a bit of the water with a USS Constitution Cruise through the Boston Harbor. This fun excursion out to Old Ironsides is informative and entertaining, as you learn about the history of this famed vessel and her many storied adventures. Another great option is the Charles River Cruise, which showcases the sights along this famous waterway dividing Boston and Cambridge, like MIT's campus, Beacon Hill, the Boston Esplanade, and much more. Getting In: USS Constitution Cruise tickets and Charles River Cruise tickets are both included with the Go Boston Card.
Art Museums & Special Exhibits
Art lovers are always in for a treat with a visit to Boston. From the iconic Museum of Fine Arts to the cutting edge Institue of Contemporary Art, you'll always find something to inspire you. Visitors of the MFA will see an exhibition on gender and fashion spanning a century, on display until August 25. At the ICA between June 26 - September 22, there will be a display on 'maximalism' in art and design. It will feature a variety of art pieces ranging from paintings, sculptures, ceramics and furniture. Getting In: MFA tickets and Institute of Contemporary Art tickets are both included with the Go Boston pass.
Shakespeare on the Common
Love to get in some quality theater, but don't always have the budget for tickets? Take advantage of one of Boston's most popular free summer activities on the Boston Common - Shakespeare on the Common. This free performance by local actors is a delight each year, and residents flock to the Common with picnics and blankets to enjoy the show. If you want a spot near the stage, you'll have to arrive early. This year's performance is Cymbeline. The play is on Tuesday-Saturday at 8:00 pm and Sundays at 7:00 pm. Getting In: Shakespeare on the Common performances are free to attend.
Remember to Save on Attraction Admission
There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Boston in July to help you plan your 4th of July weekend itinerary. Remember, the Go Boston pass provides entry to many of these attractions. You can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!