Celebrate Memorial Day the Boston Way: Food, Fun & History

Celebrate Memorial Day in Boston with food, history, and unforgettable city experiences.

Published: April 14, 2026
Flower Memorial for Memorial Day

Boston turns patriotic traditions into pure fun for Memorial Day, welcoming travelers with historic flair and a laid-back festival atmosphere. Whether you’re here for revolutionary tales, riverside picnics, or tasty New England seafood, this city serves it all up with a side of spring sunshine. We’ve rounded up our top picks—from harbor cruises to legendary food tours—to help you plan your best-ever Memorial Day getaway in Boston. Let’s make this long weekend one to remember! 

Our favorite ways to celebrate Memorial Day in Boston include: 

  • Freedom Trail Foundation® Walk into History Tour 
  • Boston Harbor Walk & Seafood Tour by Top Dog Tours 
  • Day on the Greenway 
  • USS Constitution Museum 
  • Bike Rental by Urban AdvenTours 
  • Franklin Park Zoo 
  • Boston Movie Mile Walking Tour by On Location Tours 
  • North End ‘Little Italy’ Food Tour by Top Dog Tours 
  • View Boston 

Freedom Trail Foundation® Walk into History Tour 

Nothing says Memorial Day in Boston like stepping straight into America’s revolutionary heartbeat. The Freedom Trail Foundation® Walk into History Tour brings the city’s history to life with a dash of humor and an eye for the dramatic. Costumed guides (tricorn hats included!) lead you along the red-brick trail, through 250 years of revolution, resilience, and wild city tales. Expect gripping stories at sites like the Old State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Granary Burying Ground, where legends and ordinary folks alike rest in peace. 

The tour’s atmosphere is lively and inviting, with engaging guides who know exactly how to entertain a crowd—kids and adults alike. You’ll find yourself swapping trivia with fellow travelers and maybe even joining in a little colonial roleplay. Walking the trail on Memorial Day isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about honoring the spirit of liberty and those who shaped the nation. For an extra special vibe, stick around the area for possible Memorial Day ceremonies and patriotic celebrations. 

Boston Harbor Walk & Seafood Tour by Top Dog Tours 

For those who want a taste of Boston’s seafaring spirit, the Boston Harbor Walk & Seafood Tour is pure New England joy. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront as your guide spins tales of the city’s maritime heritage, from bold revolutionaries to modern shipping tycoons. Along the way, you’ll duck into classic seafood joints and sample New England chowder, succulent oysters, and perhaps a perfect lobster roll. 

The energy here is lively and social — you’ll mix with locals and fellow foodies, soaking up sea views and briny breezes. The history is as fresh as the seafood, connecting you to Boston’s roots in just a few savory bites. If you want to capture the soul of the city (and maybe score a sun-soaked patio table with harbor views), nothing beats this delicious, story-packed tour. 

Day on the Greenway  

Embrace Boston’s open-air side by spending Memorial Day on the Rose Kennedy Greenway, a vibrant park that winds through the city’s downtown like a green ribbon. Here, food trucks dish out everything from banh mi to cannoli, and free events fill the air with music and laughter. Catch art installations, stretch out on soft lawns, or cool off in the playful fountains. 

You’ll see families picnicking, street performers entertaining curious kids, and locals catching up over craft coffees in shaded seating areas. The Greenway’s festive energy gives the city a friendly pulse, especially during holiday weekends. For a classic Memorial Day outing, bring a blanket, find a sunny patch of grass, and enjoy Boston on cruise control. 

USS Constitution Museum

USS Constitution Museum

Soak up America’s naval history with a visit to the USS Constitution Museum in Charlestown. Located right beside “Old Ironsides” herself, the museum brings you right into the days of tall ships, cannon salutes, and daring battles at sea. 

Interactive exhibits invite you to sling a sailor’s hammock, try knot-tying, or steer a simulated ship. All ages get drawn into stories of the ship’s triumphs and the sailors who called her home. On Memorial Day, the historic ambiance takes on extra resonance, with flag-raising ceremonies and opportunities to pay tribute to military heroes past and present. For panoramic views, stroll the nearby Navy Yard or visit Bunker Hill Monument for even more patriotic energy. 

Bike Rental by Urban AdvenTours 

See Memorial Day Weekend from the saddle of a comfy city bike with Urban AdvenTours. Boston’s winding waterfront paths, leafy parks, and charming neighborhoods feel tailor-made for cycling, and Memorial Day is the perfect excuse to get rolling. 

Pedal along the Charles River Esplanade, breezy and lined with picnickers, or follow the Emerald Necklace all the way to Jamaica Pond for a perfect afternoon escape. Urban AdvenTours staff will point you to the best scenic routes (and maybe a hidden bakery or two for a tasty mid-ride treat!). With the city buzzing for the holiday, you’ll love the freedom, fresh air, and spontaneous sense of adventure you get exploring Boston on two wheels. 

Franklin Park Zoo 

When the sun is shining and families are out enjoying the city, Franklin Park Zoo is a must. Spread across 72 acres, the zoo bursts with color, sound, and a vibe that practically shouts “fun day out!” Walk shaded trails past lions, zebras, towering giraffes, and cheeky monkeys, or let little ones blow off steam at the vast playgrounds. 

The tropical butterfly garden is a Memorial Day favorite, while animal encounters bring up-close learning to life. The landscaping is lush and spacious, perfect for picnic blankets and mid-day snack breaks. Plus, with special holiday programming and garden blooms at their peak, the Franklin Park Zoo guarantees smiles, laughter, and animal magic for all ages. 

Boston Movie Mile Walking Tour by On Location Tours

Boston Movie Mile Tour

Lights, camera, Boston! The Boston Movie Mile Walking Tour weaves through the city’s on-screen legends, from Good Will Hunting to The Departed. Step into your favorite scenes as lively guides share behind-the-scenes secrets, fun celebrity anecdotes, and local trivia. 

The route winds through scenic Beacon Hill and the Boston Common, offering perfect backdrops for photos and people-watching. On Memorial Day, city gardens are in full bloom, and the festive mood seems to spill from every outdoor café and fountain you pass. Whether you’re a cinephile or just love quirky tales and celebrity gossip, this tour gives you a totally unique peek into Boston life. 

North End ‘Little Italy’ Food Tour by Top Dog Tours 

Let’s talk Italian flavor! Boston’s North End is a Memorial Day treasure: charming, bustling, and filled with the perfume of simmering red sauce and fresh-baked bread. The North End ‘Little Italy’ Food Tour with Top Dog Tours leads you through cobblestone streets, introducing you to legendary cannoli, rich espresso, hand-tossed pizza, and irresistible pasta. 

Your guide slips in local lore, family-run shop secrets, and plenty of samples along the way. With flags flying and fairy lights twinkling, the North End is at its friendliest and most festive for Memorial Day. Whether you chase down a pastry at Mike’s or sip limoncello on a sun-drenched patio, this tour puts your taste buds at the heart of Boston’s oldest neighborhood. 

View Boston 

For the grand finale, head to View Boston atop the Prudential Tower and take in sweeping 360° views of the skyline, harbor, and even Fenway Park in the distance. From above, Boston feels both lively and serene—rooftops stretch endlessly, sailboats drift along the Charles River, and the city buzzes quietly below. 

What makes it special is the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal landmarks like the Massachusetts State House and the greenery of the Emerald Necklace, while interactive displays and a cozy cocktail bar invite you to linger. At sunset, the city glows—making it the perfect spot to unwind, take photos, and soak in Boston’s ever-evolving charm. 

 

Ready to make your Memorial Day in Boston unforgettable? Whether you’re feasting through the North End, reliving history on the Freedom Trail, or relaxing under the stars with skyline views, Boston rolls out a warm welcome and plenty of patriotic cheer. With all these options, you’re bound to build a weekend as memorable as the holiday itself—see you out there! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Free Things to Do Near Franklin Park Zoo or Things to Do with Friends in Boston 

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Visiting Boston's Museum of Science - Admission, Tips & More

Spending some time in Boston? Looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon that is great for both children and adults? A trip to the Museum of Science should definitely be part of your Boston itinerary. The Museum of Science experience is an immersive plunge into the way things work at a biological level, an environmental level, a physical level, and many others. Check out our helpful guide for visiting Boston's Museum of Science. It's packed full of tips for visiting, ways to save on admission, other nearby attractions, and much more. How to get Boston Museum of Science discount tickets? We’ve got you covered – Museum of Science admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. 3. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. What should I bring to the Museum of Science? Bottled water, if you prefer not to drink from the museum's fountains. Comfortable walking shoes. It's a sizable museum and you'll need some stamina. A camera or phone to catch all the memories at distinctive museum attractions. Take a selfie next to the huge T-rex or inside a space module. What is there to see and do at the Museum of Science? Frequently showcasing new temporary exhibits and activities, the museum is sure to be a great experience even if you have been there before. The Museum is full of permanent exhibits that will dazzle you and your family. Here are a few of our favorites we suggest you check out during your visit... NEW FOR 2019: BODY WORLDS & The Cycle of Life https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz4lGjfpOUi/ BODY WORLDS & The Cycle of Life is the latest temporary exhibit to open at the Museum of Boston. It is open now until January 2020, and you should definitely try to see it before it closes. The exhibit features more than one hundred specimens, and examines what it means to be human. Please note: this exhibition is not included with general admission provided by the Go Boston pass. Tickets must be purchased separately. Hall of Human Life The Hall of Human Life is arguably the most informative and interactive room at the Museum of Science. The left side of the room breaks down human life into its most basic, yet compelling building blocks. These activities help structure kids’ developing perceptions in scientific fact. Plus, it's a fun way to be reminded as an adult of these biological essentials. The stations builds a biological understanding of humans from our social nature, to how DNA, cancer, diseases, and antibiotics all work inside the body. The right side is even more interactive, featuring a series of tests to collect your own personal attributes and health. But before you get caught up in the fascinating topics and experiments, make sure you visit the free-to-use Link Stations. Here, you'll receive a wristband to “link up” with the stations' interactions via barcode. This feature will track your scores at each station, like the height of your foot arch at the aptly named “How High are Your Arches” Station, or the stations where you can see how efficient your walking motion is, or how warm or cold you feel relatively. Afterwards you can access your scores from the Museum of Science website in order to help measure and manage your health. Dinosaur Room The "Modeling the Mesozoic" and the "Colossal Fossil: Triceratops Cliff" exhibits will delight the dinosaur lovers. You'll be treated to fascinating facts and information about all your favorite, and soon-to-be-favorite dinosaurs. The life-size T-rex, and the reconstructed bones of a triceratops bring the seemingly larger-than-life, ancient creatures to life like you've never seen before. The "Modeling the Mesozoic" exhibit delves into the methods of science behind hypothesizing where and how these animals lived, giving texture to the archeological remains we have today. You can also explore fossil clues as you roam through these models. Examine bones, footprints, and even dinosaur dung to look for information. Then, review the bones of a dinosaur, an iguana, and a bird to see how some dinosaurs are closely related to birds! Take a Closer Look We especially recommend the Take a Closer Look exhibit for both kids and adults. There is relativity of hot and cold, the SEM camera, and the visual “sound” waves all contribute to suspending our static, commonplace view of stimuli, while at the same time drawing connections between seemingly disparate sensations that demonstrate the unification of reality. Special Experiences There are a number of additional experiences that visitors love, available for an additional upgrade fee (paid directly to the attraction). Charles Hayden Planetarium: This hi-tech digital planetarium hosts both typical planetarium shows and musical shows on the weekends. Mugar Omni Theater: Featuring top IMAX films with subjects like Pandas, Volcanoes, and the Great Barrier Reef. 4-D Theater: Shows here combined 3-D visual technology with additional special effects like air movement, temperature changes, water, and more. Butterfly Garden: A favorite with visitors from all over, this delightful exhibit is a respite from city living. What attractions are near the Museum of Science? If you're interested in a unique tour of the city, the Boston Duck Tour is the perfect option and conveniently picks up right at the Museum of Science. Cambridgeside Galleria is a comprehensive mall located just a few blocks away, and is a local go-to shopping destination. A short hop across the river brings you to a number of other attractions, including TD Garden (home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics), the Otis House Museum, and the Museum of African American History. Important Information Hours: Saturday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm Location: 1 Science Park Boston, MA 02114 Public Transportation: Take the T: Green Line, Lechmere train, to Science Park stop. Note: Science Park stop is not wheelchair accessible; call the MBTA at 617-222-5000 for assistance. Save on Tickets with a Go Boston pass Remember, the Go Boston® pass is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Museum of Science tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price. For other fun ideas to add to your Boston itinerary, check out our ultimate Boston guide.
Lindsay Eagan
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10+ Things to Do in Salem Massachusetts for Halloween

October is one of the best times to visit Salem, Massachusetts, the “witch town” known for its sinister past and spooky aura. For the entire month of October, haunted happenings take over Salem to celebrate Halloween and fall in the area. Haunted Happenings features a calendar full of events, special programs, and live shows. These distinctive seasonal events complement the attractions, museums, and tours that Salem offers year-round. If you’re looking for things to do in Salem on Halloween and October and nearby Boston, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including: Salem Witch Museum House of Seven Gables Peabody Essex Museum Halloween Cruises Bewitched After Dark Salem Walking Tours The People vs Bridget Bishop Gallows Hill Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour Guided Tour of Salem & Marblehead Boston Attractions When is the best time to visit Salem, MA? Salem is busiest on weekends when it fills up with tourists, but it's arguably at its most festive when thronged with people. However, if you're in search of a less hectic experience, you can head to Salem any weekday in October or during one of the first weekends in the month. You’ll still find plenty of seasonal things to do. Dedicate at least one full day to seeing the sights in Salem and consider an overnight stay to join in on some of the spooky night-time walking tours and ghost tours offered. Some of the top hotels in the area recommended by Haunted Happenings include the Clipper Ship Inn (budget-friendly), Hawthorne Hotel (a historic hotel), and Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites (award-winning lodging). Do remember that October dates will book up fast, so make your reservations in advance. The closer to Halloween it is, the more difficult it will be to get to Salem in heavy traffic and find reasonably priced parking. If you're coming from the Boston area, we recommend you take either the commuter rail (Newburyport/Rockport Line) or a bus to avoid the hassle of parking. That said, there’s nothing quite like spending Halloween weekend in Salem as it is always jam-packed with fun and spooky things to do. Salem Witch Museum Do you believe in witchcraft? At the Salem Witch Museum, get an insight into the complex and evolving perception of witches 'from midwives and healers to witch hunts and Wiccans.' Salem’s most visited museum presents the witch hysteria of 1692 in a way that is educational, thought-provoking, and a bit spooky. You'll learn all about the infamous witch trials, the events leading up to them, and what life was like in Salem at the time. They also offer a fun and eclectic gift shop that sells everything from artisan wares to the most inspired Halloween costumes you'll ever see. It's a nice place to pick a unique fall souvenir. House of the Seven Gables The House of Seven Gables is New England’s oldest wooden mansion. Built in 1668, it was made famous through the fiction of Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of The Scarlet Letter. A must-visit attraction for book lovers and American Literature fans. In October, add to the experience with their program of specialized audio tours. Experience a more personal history of Salem from the perspectives of the people who didn't make it into the history books with the Passages of the Past Audio Tour, or try out their Immersive 360 Tour where you'll join senior historical interpreter David Moffat for a unique and online venture through over 350 years of history. Peabody Essex Museum Home to a collection of one million artifacts and natural treasures dating back to 1799, when sea captains would bring home treasures from their travels overseas, the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) offers Salem visitors a unique examination of world history. See fascinating exhibitions of African, American, Asian, Native American, Oceanic, and Indian art, including photographs from 1840 (the year photography was invented!). The PEM regularly features exhibitions on The Salem Witch Trials, where visitors can learn more about factors that fueled the much-storied crisis, including individuals who rose to defend those accused. Halloween cruises A cruise around the storied waters of Salem is a fun and different way to get in some prime leaf-peeping during peak season and take in the history of the area. The 2-hour narrated Lighthouse & Foliage tour goes on a 14-mile loop of the scenic Salem Sound. The Haunted Happenings Harbor Cruise features a 90-minute entertainment cruise. It's complete with face painting, fortune telling, spooky photo ops, scary stories, and more. A full bar and grill are available on every cruise. They also offer a Halloween Boo!s Cruise, which is ideal for adults and groups of friends. These offerings from Mahi Cruises are seasonal and are available during the fall or the month of October, depending upon the selected cruise. Salem Haunted Happenings There's no shortage of things to do in Salem Massachusetts. Just check out the Haunted Happenings events calendar for the complete lineup of activities and fun things to do in Salem during this popular time of year. There's everything from face painting and farmers' markets to cruises and hayrides to haunted houses and witch hunts. Some of our popular picks include: Salem Psychic Fair and Witches Market Salem Common Family Movie Night Salem Haunted Magic Show Presents: Hysteria! Hollowed Harvest: Wicked Labyrinth and much, much more! Bewitched After Dark Salem walking tours These engaging tours are led by local historians who can't wait to share Salem's eerie history with you. They warn, however, that "history is more frightening than fiction," something easily spooked visitors would do well to remember! Look out for the Salem Witch House, one of the few structures directly linked to the witch trials of 1692.  Cry Innocent: The People Versus Bridget Bishop Head back to 1692 when Bridget Bishop was accused of witchcraft and is up for trial. At Cry Innocent, you'll be immersed in the experience by serving on the Puritan jury. You’ll hear her testimony, cross-examine the witnesses, and decide the verdict in this critically acclaimed interactive theatrical performance. We promise you won't leave the theater without thinking differently about the infamous Salem witch trials! Gallows Hill This multifaceted attraction has it all - a haunted museum filled with lost objects and abandoned exhibits, an exhilarating, 4-D experience show, and a fascinating Ghosts & Legends Trolley Tour. Gallows Hill is one of the most popular attractions in all of Salem and is great for Halloween explorations. Keep in mind that some attractions might not be suitable for small children. Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour The Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour is one of Salem's most haunting attractions. Experience Salem's longest-running ghostly tour with the city's 'spirited' tour leader! The knowledgeable ghostly guides combine captivating storytelling, macabre humor, and stellar presentation to convey Salem's authentic haunted history. Delve into the Witch City's intriguing and often sordid past on their highly recommended 90-minute nightly strolls. Costumed narrators recount by lantern light true tales of documented paranormal activity, chilling cemeteries, Colonial witchcraft, Victorian murder, and more! This tour is leisurely paced; the tour distance covered is approximately a half mile. Guided tour of Salem and Marblehead Join a full-day guided tour of historic Salem and Marblehead. It's an especially perfect tour to take during October, as they highlight many of the Haunted Happenings events. This tour covers lots of North Shore highlights, including Marblehead, Abbott Hall, Salem Harbor, and more. Keep in mind the tour lasts about seven hours altogether, so this will be your main attraction for the entire day. Add Boston to Your Itinerary Fall is one of the best times to visit the Boston area; the air is crisp and cool, while the vibrant orange and yellow leaves provide the perfect backdrop. Want some more fun? Skip almost 100 years in time from the era of witch hysteria to the era of the American Revolution. Explore historic attractions such as: the Paul Revere House the Freedom Trail the USS Constitution Museum and more! Then, stop by the Samuel Adams Brewery to sneak a sample of their special Oktoberfest beers. Looking for more info on Boston? Be sure to check out our guides for things to do in Boston for Halloween or things to do in Boston in fall.  Enjoy your seasonal activities this year, and Happy Halloween! And while you're at it, go grab a Boston attraction pass and see all the city's best bits - spooky or otherwise! Planning to visit lots of Boston attractions? Discover our full line-up of Boston attractions including USS Constitution attractions and the Salem Witch Museum. With Go City® you won't miss a thing, plus with a pass, you can save up to 50% compared to buying individual entry to everything you want to do - winning! ☀️Compare Boston passes☀️ – 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 – ✈️ Buy a pass ✈️
Casey Makovich

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