10+ Things to Do in Boston for Adults

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.