Boston

10+ Things to Do in Boston for Adults

Consider Boston for your next group trip - from historical landmarks to breweries and beyond, Boston has it all.
By Katie Sagal

Culture vultures will love its artsy side and jazz bars, while a Martha's Vineyard side trip is a real crowd-pleaser.

Boston is a great family city, with tons of attractions just perfect for school field trips and kid-centric vacations. But it’s also a brilliant city for adults to explore, too, from its wealth of cultural attractions to its stellar dining and shopping scene. Whether you love prestigious art museums, leisurely cruises, or charismatic jazz bars, there’s something wonderful for you to explore in Boston.

If you’re looking for things to do in Boston for adults, here are our top activities for couples and groups of friends, including...

  • Boston Duck Tour
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour
  • Freedom Trail Walking Tour
  • Popular Art Museums
  • Sam Adams Brewery Tour
  • JFK Presidential Library & Museum
  • And more!

Boston Duck Tour

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If you’re new to Boston, a fun way to explore the city is with Boston’s signature Duck Tours. This part-land, part-water excursion truly showcases how versatile a city Beantown is, and is tons of fun to boot. The tour will escort you past many top landmarks and sites throughout Boston, so it’s a great overview of the city as a whole.

Don’t forget to 'quack' at passers-by, and hopefully, they’ll 'quack' back!

Historic Boston attractions

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Boston is a city that’s full of history, and anyone with an interest in early America will treasure the wealth of attractions found in downtown Boston. Pay a visit to the Old State House, where you can find artifacts and objects that hail from the Revolutionary period.

Or, opt for a trip to Paul Revere House, the home of Revolutionaries who rode through the night to warn the colonial militia about British troops en route to Concord. This National Historic landmark dates from 1680 and is full of colonial history. It's located in the North End (also a great place for boutique shopping and sumptuous dining).

Of course, if you want to see it all, then the Freedom Trail Walking Tour is a guided excursion that allows you to meander past most of the biggies. You can also walk the Freedom Trail yourself (it's marked with red brick) but that takes some of the fun (and all of the insider info) out of it.

Art museums

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Boston also has an artsy side. Whether you’re thinking in terms of the prestigious Museum of Fine Arts, or even just of the unique stuff produced by the students at MassArt, you’ll be able to find inspiration in this city. The MFA is perfect for those looking for a comprehensive artistic experience, with everything from early colonial furniture to modern painting.

The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) has a much more current focus, with some striking and distinctive exhibitions you won’t find elsewhere. Then there’s the inimitable Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, a historic home and gardens that houses a fine collection of art and sculpture.

Sam Adams Brewery Tour

group-of-friends-enjoying-beer

There’s no question that Sam Adams is the brewery credited with starting the micro-brew craze that’s been sweeping the nation for years now. See where it all began with a tour of this famed local brewery and learn about the process of brewing your favorite beverages.

Beer lovers may also want to check out Harpoon’s Brewery and Beer Hall, located in the Seaport neighborhood, which also offers tours and tastings. Trillium Brewing also hosts a beer garden on the Rose Kennedy Greenway in the warmer months.

JFK Presidential Library & Museum

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Another one for the history buffs – especially those interested in the unique character of Massachusetts politics – is the JFK Presidential Library and Museum. This institution tells the story of one of America's most beloved presidents and his famous family, from the early years to his Presidency and the aftermath of his death. See everything from rare family photos to transcripts of speeches and more.

A day on Martha’s Vineyard

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Martha’s Vineyard is a pretty island of 231 square kilometers, located off the coast of Boston, in the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its beautiful white sand beaches and magnificent gingerbread-house homes, the island is the summer residence of American jet setters as well as many former Presidents. We love its steep cliffs, its wild nature, its lighthouses, and its fresh fish, as well as its museum which traces the history of the island. Martha’s Vineyard is an ideal day trip from Boston, as the island is only a 40-minute ferry ride away.

Theater trips and nights out in Boston

Traveling with adults also means being able to take advantage of the evenings to go out, have fun, and party. To see the best shows and musicals in the country, go to the famous Boston Theater District, home to the biggest Broadway shows, operas, music, and dance.

Among the city's emblematic venues are the Boston Opera House, the Cutler Majestic Theater, and the Wilbur. Take a look at the different programs, and try to get your tickets as early as possible to be sure of getting seats.

Boston ice tea in a bar

To continue the evening until late at night, several options are available to you. Jazz lovers will find what they are looking for in one of the city's famous clubs, such as the Scullers Jazz Club or The Beehive. To sip delicious cocktails while listening to vinyl, go to The Offsuit. We also like Koji Club, a Japanese bar where you can taste dozens of different sakes.

Finally, Boston has many nightclubs where you can dance until the early hours, such as the immense The Grand or the Club Café.

Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City®  

Discover our full line-up of Boston attractions including the USS Constitution Museum, Salem Witch Museum, Paul Revere House, and more. 

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.   

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

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10+ Things to Do in Boston with Teens During Your Trip

Let’s face it – teens don’t always want to be a part of the big family vacation. The stuff they used to love as little kids just isn’t 'cool' anymore, and they're likely not as into adult attractions like art films or galleries. So... what to do? If you’re looking for things to do in Boston with teens, check out our list of the top attractions and activities, including... Boston Red Sox Game & Fenway Park Tour New England Aquarium Franklin Park Zoo Boston Museum of Science Boston Duck Tour Boston Trolley Tour and more... Catch a Game at Fenway Park Boston is a town with some major sports love going on. Take the teens out to a Boston Red Sox baseball game at Fenway Park, one of Major League Baseball’s most beloved and historic stadiums. You can also opt to tour the park, which is great fun for the whole family. You'll see all the major landmarks of this iconic ballpark, including Pesky's Pole, the Lone Red Seat, the Green Monster, and much more. Not around Boston during baseball season? Snag tickets to see the Celtics or the Bruins, both of which are a delight to watch at the TD Garden. Learn something new at the Museum of Science There's nothing that says vacations have to be pure, mindless relaxation. Why not have your teens exercise their brains in a really fun way with a visit to the Boston Museum of Science? This Boston institution is a favorite school trip destination, and it's got tons of exhibits to appeal to kids and teens of all ages. With more than 700 different interactive exhibits to explore including the Theater of Electricity, there's bound to be something (or several somethings) of interest. Check out the beloved Hall of Human Life for an in-depth, fascinating look at the human body and all its many wonders. Embark on a bike ride There are few cities in America as bike-friendly as Boston, so it’s actually a great idea for the whole family to explore the city aboard a comfortable touring bike. Whether you want to leisurely pedal around the Common (which does involve some serious hills) or along the Charles River, or feel up to braving the streets of Boston for some serious local cred, a bike ride is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. A Boston Bike Rental is a great way to give your teens some freedom - let them pedal around using the bike map included with your rental and explore on their own. Enjoy Thrill Rides Another good way to occupy restless teens is with a trip to an awesome theme park – Six Flags New England. It's a bit of a day trip from Boston, but it's worth the hours of fun and excitement they'll have. Filled with rides, slides, and tons of fun, this family-favorite theme park is sure to delight. Six Flags New England has rides geared at guests of all ages, so families with both adrenaline-junkie teens and little ones who will delight in gentler rides will find something to suit everyone. Tour the city in a unique way 🗓️ >> Check out our weekend in Boston itinerary Everyone loves the chance to explore new cities, and the combination of history and modern technology that Boston has to offer makes for some really attractive scenery. While teens may cringe at the notion of following an umbrella around on foot, there's something fun and unique about offbeat tours like a Boston Duck Tour, which is a great photo op and silly fun, or a Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour, which provides easy flexibility for tailoring your explorations. Make special memories and take the whole family on one of these unique sightseeing tours during your next Boston trip. Get immersed in history While some of the historic homes and museums may seem a little too sedate for your teens, they'll feel history come alive in a more engaging way on the Freedom Trail Walking Tour. Hosted by tour guides in full 18th-century costume, the tour winds through historic Boston, meandering past highlights like the Boston Common, Old South Meeting House, and Faneuil Hall. Your guided Freedom Trail walking tour will provide insight and local insider information about each attraction. You could also opt to follow the trail on your own. Try making a scavenger hunt out of it! Leave a little time to shop till you drop   Everyone wants a great souvenir from their trip, and some teens may want more than a keychain to satisfy their Boston shopping desires. Fortunately for you (and perhaps unfortunately for their wallets), Boston is an amazing shopping town, offering everything and anything you could want. From the high-end boutique stores of Newbury Street to the chain offerings at Cambridgeside Galleria, there’s a shop to suit every budget. Don’t forget to check out smaller indie stories in places like Cambridge and Somerville! Save on admission to top Boston attractions with Go City® With an All-Inclusive Pass from Go City, you can visit Boston attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your Boston must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you've chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you're dreaming of ticking off. ☀️ Compare Boston passes ☀️ – 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 – ✈️ Buy a pass ✈️  
Katie Sagal
Concord Massachusetts
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10+ Things to Do in Lexington & Concord, MA

If you’re interested in American history, you know Boston is the place to be for historical landmarks and attractions related to the colonial era, the American Revolution, and the birth of the country. However, visitors often overlook the two sites with some of the most significance for this time: Lexington and Concord.  Attractions go beyond Lexington Battle Green to include museums, 18th-century houses inhabited by famous early Americans, and even immaculately restored taverns. If you're looking for things to do in Lexington and Concord during your trip to Boston, check out this list of the best local activities and attractions, including: The Liberty Ride Buckman Tavern Concord Museum Louisa May Alcott House and more! Lexington Attractions Liberty Ride Though it starts in Lexington, the Liberty Ride is a Lexington and Concord tour along the historic Battle Road. On your air-conditioned trolley, a knowledgeable costumed tour guide will recount the exciting events of the American Revolution as you pass the Lexington Battle Green, the Old North Bridge, Minuteman National Historic Park, and the Lexington and Concord visitor centers. Buckman Tavern Buckman Tavern served as a gathering spot for militiamen awaiting the arrival of the “Red Coats” on April 19, 1775. When the alarm bell ran to signal the enemy’s approach, the men left the tavern for Lexington Common, where the first Revolutionary War conflict would occur. Buckman Tavern was restored in 1920 and today the original taproom fireplace remains next to a reinstalled bar. Munroe Tavern On the day before the Battle of Lexington, Munroe Tavern served as a meeting spot for colonials and minutemen. The next day, retreating British troops overtook the tavern and turned it into a field hospital for the wounded. Today, the preserved Munroe Tavern is run by the Lexington Historical Society. Hancock Clarke House You know about Paul Revere’s famous ride, right? Well, the Hancock Clarke House, home of Reverends John Hancock and Jonas Clarke, was Paul Revere’s destination that night. John Hancock and Samuel Adams were visiting Reverend Clarke, and Paul Revere and William Dawes were sent to warn these legendary Patriots of the arrival of the British troops. Lexington Battle Green Visit the place where the first shots of the battle of Lexington and Concord were fired in 1775, in an event that would start the Revolutionary War. Today Lexington Battle Green is a public park and a National Historic Landmark. A quick must-visit stop for history buffs. Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library Like many of the attractions in Lexington and Concord, this is one for the history buffs. This free-entry American history museum has a particular focus on Masonic history, but it also contains artifacts and documents of more general interest. The museum hosts an ever-changing roster of special exhibits that tell the story of Lexington's history. Concord Attractions Concord Museum Housing many authentic artifacts and important documents of the Colonial era and the American Revolution, the Concord Museum was founded in 1886—making it one of the oldest and most well-documented historical collections in the country. It is most famous for its extensive collection of artifacts belonging to Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. Other relics are just as impressive, such as lanterns hung in the Old North Church on the eve of the Revolution. Louisa May Alcott Orchard House Speaking of literary legacies, the Louisa May Alcott House—where the classic novel Little Women was written—is also located in Concord. Real-life family members who resided in the house inspired the story, and guided tours offer insights into their lives. Though over 300 years old, the house has genuine architectural integrity and still contains original family artifacts. Old Manse House With a location right next to the Old North Bridge, the Old Manse House has an important place in Revolutionary History. The house was built by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s grandfather in 1770, and Emerson watched the battle at North Bridge in 1775 from his farm fields. The Old Manse House has a renowned literary legacy: it is here where Ralph Waldo Emerson drafted “Nature,” Nathaniel Hawthorne established his literary career, Henry David Thoreau tended the land, and Horace Mann, Margaret Fuller, and John Brown paid regular visits. Minute Man National Historic Park This immensely popular historic site has plenty to offer exploring families and couples. A park commemorating the beginning of the Revolutionary War, this venue offers several distinct attractions. You'll be able to see: the North Bridge, where the militia fired back at the British troops; the Battle Road Trail, featuring a monument to Paul Revere and a restored 18th century home and inn. Visit the Wayside, a house that was once occupied by Bronson and Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Margaret Sidney. Save on Lexington & Concord Attraction Admission with a Go City® Boston pass Discover our full line-up of Boston attractions including the USS Constitution, Museum, Salem Witch Museum, Paul Revere House, and more. 🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you. 😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.
Katie Sagal
Boston
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2 Days in Boston - An Itinerary for a Weekend in Boston

Planning a weekend in Boston and hoping to make the most of your time? We’ve put together a great itinerary for 2 days in Boston that will show you the best of the city in just one weekend. The guide includes indoor and outdoor options, so no matter the weather, you're prepared! From sightseeing tours and museums to historical buildings and beyond, Boston has so much to offer, we know you’ll love your trip. This weekend in Boston itinerary includes: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Museum of Science Boston Common & Boston Public Garden Museum of Fine Arts Skywalk Observatory New England Aquarium Faneuil Hall & Quincy Marketplace (free!) Old State House OR USS Constitution Cruise 📅 We’ve also put together a 1-day and 3-day itinerary should you be in Beantown for only a day, or if you've got a long weekend. Planning to visit lots of Boston attractions? 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 ✈️  DAY 1 Stop #1: Hop-on Hop-off trolley Stop #2: Museum of Science There are few cities as scientifically inclined as Boston. Home to MIT, Harvard, and many of the best research labs in the world, Boston knows what it’s doing when it comes to science. That’s why a visit to the acclaimed Museum of Science is a no-brainer! Kids and adults alike can enjoy (over 700) award-winning exhibits, interactive displays, and special programming. Some of the highlights include the landmark Hall of Human Life, which features the biology of the human body, and the Charles Hayden Planetarium, the most sophisticated digital planetarium in the entire region. Stop #3: The Boston Common & Boston Public Garden Stop #4: Museum of Fine Arts Stop #5: Soaring cityscape panoramas at View Boston DAY 2 Stop #1: New England Aquarium Stop #2: Faneuil Hall & Quincy Marketplace (free!) After visiting the aquarium, take a short walk to Faneuil Hall and devote some time to exploring this historical center. Faneuil Hall was once a meeting place in colonial times, but today it's filled with shops and dining venues. You can also find tons of musicians and street performers near Faneuil Hall – so stay a while and listen before heading to lunch! Leave yourself 30 minutes to an hour to explore. Stop #3: Old State House (indoor option) Stop #3: USS Constitution Cruise (outdoor option) The beauty of Boston awaits So, there’s your perfect 2 days in Boston weekend itinerary – tours, museums, cruises, and much more. This two-day itinerary will introduce you to the best of Boston and give you a taste of what it’s like to experience Beantown as a local. Save up to 50% on Boston attractions Discover our full line-up of Boston attractions including the USS Constitution Museum, Salem Witch Museum, Paul Revere House, and more.  🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 
Casey Makovich

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