Boston Summer

Things to Do in Boston When It's Hot Out

When things heat up, head for Boston's waterfront and its impressive array of museums
By Go City Expert

Boston can swing between hot and cold, but don't worry, we've got all the tips you need to beat the heat.

One of the most fascinating things about Boston, especially for tourists, is the extreme range in temperature. Fortunately, no matter the season or the weather, you’ll find plenty to do in the Hub with diverse Boston attractions that cover a wide span of entertainment. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Boston when it's hot out:

Go on a cruise or whale watch

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It’s no surprise that the Harbor serves as a sort of sanctuary in the summer; the cool breeze comes off the water, you can enjoy watching the activity on the water, or get out and enjoy it for yourself aboard one of Boston's wonderful cruises. There, you'll find a ton of options for getting out on the water - the perfect hot day in Boston activity. A few of our favorites are:
 

  • The MBTA ferry out to any of the eleven Boston Harbor Islands, each with distinct geographical and historical features.
  • Historic Sightseeing Cruise around the harbor is a great option if you want to be in the know. An hour round trip with a knowledgeable guide will tell you all about how Boston's vibrant harbor and port came to be what it is today.
  • A whale-watching cruise is a great way to get out on the water and learn about some of the local sea life. Be on the lookout for humpback whales, finback whales, minke whales, white-sided dolphins, and numerous other marine creatures that live in the Atlantic.
  • The Boston Duck Tour is an iconic Boston attraction in itself. Hop onboard near the aquarium and enjoy a part-on-land, part-in-the-water guided tour of Boston - a fun and unique introduction to the city's history and culture!

New England Aquarium

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Located right near the departure point for the cruises mentioned above, the New England Aquarium is another favorite thing to do in Boston on a hot day. It's right by the waterfront and offers a temperature-controlled respite from the heat.

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the touch tank feature right when you walk in. Pet stingrays as they glide by the edges of the tank and watch them swim around their habitat. Next, make your way into the main exhibit to see penguins waddling and diving into the waters. You might even catch them during meal time, which is always great fun.

Make your way up the massive coral tank in the middle of the aquarium where you'll see large fish, sea turtles, and more swimming around. Be sure to peel off from the main path and check out the many exhibits on the way up, including octopi, piranhas, amphibians, and more.

Visit an Art Museum

When it’s simply too hot to be outside, visit some of Boston's world-class art museums (and enjoy the AC!)

Museum of Fine Arts

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The Museum of Fine Arts is a large museum that houses nearly half a million works of art from around the world spanning several centuries. You could easily get lost in this museum and spend hours exploring the many exhibit halls: American, European, and Asian Art, Art of Africa and Oceania, The Ancient World, Contemporary Art, Photography, Prints and Drawings, Musical Instruments, Textiles, Fashion Arts, and Jewelry.

However, if you only have an hour or two to spare, make sure you head to the Art of the Americas wing, featuring 53 galleries of American art from pre-Columbian times through the twentieth century.

Institute of Contemporary Art

Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston

If you’re more interested in art and culture, head to the Institute of Contemporary Art, which provides an interactive environment where studio art, performing arts, film, music, and just about every type of media intersect. As part of the permanent collection, innovative and influential artists such as Frank Shepard Fairey have full galleries on display.

As an added bonus, the Institute’s award-winning architecture features a huge outdoor space that overlooks the waterfront and offers some of the best views of the Boston Harbor and skyline.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

One of the most unique Boston attractions, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a 1902 house-turned-art museum. It's a work of art in itself and provides the ultimate backdrop for viewing an impressive collection of work from the masters (Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Rafael, Botticelli, Degas, and many more). The galleries surround a stunning courtyard in the center of the house, which is lush with vegetation.

If the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum sounds familiar to you, it might be because it’s known as the site of one of the biggest art heists in American history! Back in 1990, thirteen pieces of art were stolen (including a Vermeer and a Rembrandt) by a pair of thieves disguised as police officers. Empty frames still hang in the galleries, in hopes they will someday be found and returned.

Skywalk Observatory

Skywalk Observatory

Learn a little about Boston's history and then take in sky-high views of its changing skyline from the 50th floor of the Prudential Center.

You'll get to explore hands-on exhibits and walk around to see 360-degree views of the city. Conveniently located among lots of popular shops, it's a fun activity to add to your Boston itinerary when it's hot outside. You can meander around famous Newbury Street before heading in for some skyline views, a little souvenir shopping, and an Italian-style lunch at Eataly.

How Do You See the World? & The MappariumTM Experience

One of Boston's most unique attractions, How Do You See the World? & Mapparium Experience lets you step into the center of the world (literally!) and walk across a bridge through a three-story stained glass mapparium globe.

Journey across the earth and learn how the world has developed since World War II in this incredible eye-opening exhibit, which explores significant events in human rights, scientific breakthroughs, and exploration. In addition to the mapparium, you can learn all about Mary Baker Eddy's fascinating life and see the historic Publishing House Lobby.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

harvard museum of natural history

The Harvard Museum of Natural History is the perfect place to keep you out of the heat of the day.

Home to dinosaurs, insects, meteorites, minerals, and much more, you'll easily while away the hours at this fascinating museum. Located at one of the most prestigious universities in the world, you'll find over 12,000 species of plants and animals at this mind-blowing museum.

Be sure to check out which exhibits are on display during your visit. There's sure to be something new and exciting for you to explore!

Save on admission to Boston's top attractions

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 ✈️ 

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Things to Do in Boston in Summer

Summertime really makes the city of Boston seem to come alive. The streets are bustling with locals and visitors alike, as they make the most of the sunshine before sweater weather returns. Join them and bask in the Boston sun. There's so much to do from annual celebrations to outdoor activities in the sunshine. If you’re planning a visit and looking for things to do in Boston in the summer, check out our list of the top attractions, festivals and activities going on this year, including... Boston Duck Tours Whale Watching Cruise Fenway Park Tour Bike along the Charles River Esplanade and more... Boston Duck Tours You might have seen members of the Celtics, Bruins, Patriots or Red Sox riding on them on TV, but the experience of going on a Duck Boat isn’t just reserved for professional athletes. The Boston Duck Tour is definitely my number one recommendation for things to do in Boston in the summer. It's a unique attraction and such a fun way to see the city's sights. The tour will take you on a guided ride across both land and water, passing top tourist locations along the way. See Boston's top sites such as Trinity Church, the Hancock Tower, the Boston Common, the Holocaust Memorial, the Boston Public Garden and even “Cheers.” Check out our guide for tips for taking a Boston Duck Tour. Whale Watching Cruise Hop aboard a waterborne adventure with a New England Aquarium Whale Watch. Take a tour of the Boston Harbor for the chance to see the area’s incredible marine wildlife in their natural habitat. You'll sail out to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a feeding ground for all sorts of marine creatures. Your expert guides will tell you all about the natural history of this area and the habits of the critters that come here to feed. Be on the lookout for humpback whales, finback whales, minke whales, and white-sided dolphins as you cruise in the comfort of a high-speed catamaran. Fenway Park Tour & Ball Game No summer trip to Boston would be complete without a trip to “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark” – Fenway Park. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another park in the country that is ingrained into a city as much as Friendly Fenway is into Boston (Wrigley Field in Chicago comes close, though). We suggest taking a behind-the-scenes Fenway Park Tour. The tour takes about an hour and tickets are available for day-of only on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to availability. During the walking tour, an experienced tour guide will bring you onto the field that Ted Williams, Carlton Fisk, Jim Rice, and Pedro Martinez called home. You can also opt to snag tickets to a game - what's better summer fun than a leisurely afternoon spent enjoying America's favorite pastime – watching baseball with a beer in hand? Roam the Boston Public Garden If you’d prefer something a little more relaxed to do in Boston, head to the Public Garden – the first public botanical garden in the United States – to see the early summer flowers in full bloom. The lovingly landscaped Public Garden is known for its iconic Swan Boats, unique vessels with over a hundred years of history. Enjoy a ride around the pond, and make sure to bring your camera. Exclusively available once the weather warms up, the historic Swan Boats are among the most iconic sites in the city. Hidden in the ponds of Boston’s gorgeous public gardens, the traditional Swan Boats date back to the 1870s. Still run by the original owner’s descendants more than 130 years later, the Swan Boats provide a relaxing, historic Boston experience! The Freedom Walking Trail Break out your walking shoes! The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile trek marked by a line of red brick that guides you around the city. The trail begins in the Boston Common, right near the Public Gardens, and takes you to many historic locations and destinations. It's easy to follow, and you can stop at any time if you get tired or want to wander elsewhere. If you opt for a guided Freedom Trail Walking Tour, you'll be treated to informative narration about 16 historically significant sights. Keep an eye out for markers that feature information about the American Revolution and historical significance of each stop. In advance, you should also be sure to download a helpful map and list of the stops. Bike Rides Bicycling is a big part of Boston culture, and though the fiercest among us are out on two wheels year round, the spring and summer months are when the fair weather bicyclists take to the roads and paths. No bike? No problem. A Boston Bike Rental from Urban AdvenTours is all you need to join the crowd of cyclists that ride along the Charles every day in the summer. As one of the country’s most bike-able cities, you’ll find paved bike trails on the Esplanade that will take you all along the waterfront, trails in the parks, and well-established bike lanes on the roads – so you can ride feeling secure. Urban AvenTours will provide you with a bike lock, helmet, and a map of the popular Boston bike routes. See Boston’s historical buildings, gardens, and modern vistas! Boston Harbor Cruises The summer sun draws Bostonians to the harbor, where the piers are teeming with activity. Embark on a tasty harbor brunch cruise by Boston Harbor Cruises as you enjoy a fresh and diverse menu. There’s always time for a little romance on your vacation. Embark on a spectacular sunset cruise of Boston to experience the illustrious Boston Harbor at its most alluring. Feel the breeze and take in the salty sea air as you experience unparalleled views of the Boston skyline. Three spacious outdoor and indoor decks provide you with plenty of climate options, as well as your ideal vantage point. Boston is a maritime city, so a trip to Beantown just isn’t complete until you take to the seas! Franklin Park Although it’s not quite as famous as the Boston Common, Franklin Park is another marvelous green space in Boston that’s not to be left out of any outdoor activities. Picnic, stroll, run, or even just lounge on their beautiful lawns. There's also a nice golf course, for those who enjoy the game. Don’t forget about a visit to the local favorite Franklin Park Zoo! This family-friendly zoo is perfect for the little ones in your group, featuring a variety of exotic animals in several different authentic environments. They also host frequent special programming, so check their events schedule before you visit to see what's on. Museum of Science In the evening, turn your eyes to the sky to experience “Astronomy After Hours” at the Museum of Science on Friday nights. The Museum’s best-kept secret is the Gilliland Observatory on top of the Museum’s parking garage. This free-admission public event is one of the most unique Boston attractions, featuring a view that’s hard to get anywhere else in the city. If you want to visit the museum during the day to see their full scope of exhibits and offerings, there is more than enough to keep visitors of all ages occupied. Don't miss their landmark exhibit, the Hall of Human Life! Museum of Fine Arts If you’re more interested in the arts, there’s no better place in the country than the Museum of Fine Arts. This prestigious institution specializes in American art, both modern and classical, including American craftwork, furniture, and portraiture. This is not, of course, to devalue their fine and extensive collection of European and World art. Don’t miss out on the summer’s special exhibitions. There is an ever-changing roster of fantastic temporary exhibits which must not be missed. New England Aquarium If you love the idea of communing with nature but aren’t sure a whale watch is right for you (or, conversely, if you couldn’t get enough of the whales on your whale watch), head to the famous New England Aquarium, where you’ll find maritime critters from around the world. Be sure to scope out their famous colony of penguins, the exciting touch tank exhibit, their collection of Pacific ocean life, and exhibits featuring their conservation and rehabilitation efforts. Set along the harbor, enjoy a post-aquarium stroll on the pier and watch the sailboats and ships pass by. The Charles River Esplanade The Esplanade runs for a 3 mile stretch along the Charles River between Boston Museum of Science and the Boston University Bridge. Here you will find swing sets, sailboats, sculptures, and more! During July and August “Friday Flicks” are held every Friday night with a free (kid-friendly) movie you can watch on the grass. The movies start when the sun goes down, usually between 8-8:30PM. This waterfront park is very popular in the summertime and is one of the most beautiful places to walk and see views of the city. Insider tip: Walk across the Boston University Bridge near sunset for amazing photos of the city! Faneuil Hall You could easily spend the day wandering around Faneuil Hall. There's always something to see in this area of town during the warmer months, and it's simply perfect for people-watching. Whether it’s the shopping, historic bars, or tasty restaurants, Faneuil Hall is one of the most popular places to visit. You will find street performers, festival-style jugglers, and musicians all competing for attention and small change. There are also a number of souvenir shops, restaurants, and outlet shopping as well. Those who love the historical side of Boston will want to know that this site has been a marketplace and meeting hall since 1742! SoWa Sunday Vintage Markets Sundays are the best days to find outdoor festivals, markets, and activities happening during the summer months, and we Bostonians take full advantage of the warm weather. At the SoWa markets, you'll get to browse offerings from dozens of local vendors. The market is organized into 3 sections. First up are the handmade craft stands, featuring everything from one-of-a-kind paintings to Boston-themed home goods. You'll also find produce and food stands from local farmers and artisans where visitors can sample gourmet foods, stock up on fresh produce, and more. Don't forget about the food trucks from some of the best local eateries. Insider tip: The food trucks have become very popular so we recommend going before noon to avoid waiting in line, but either way, it’s worth the wait! Boston Harborfest Held as one of the many 4th of July events in the Boston area, Boston Harborfest is a local tradition. Designed to highlight Boston’s rich history, this festival features attractions, reenactments, and tours that emphasize the city’s colonial and maritime history. This year’s events include Revolutionary War-era re-enactments, walking tours, displays by U.S. naval ships, concerts, cruises, museum exhibits, and more. Often celebrations begin in June, meaning you'll be able to enjoy even more patriotic and historic events! Boston Scooper Bowl Ice Cream Fest This uniquely Boston event offers locals and visitors alike the chance to consume as much ice cream as they'd like. And it's for charity! (Proceeds go to benefit the Jimmy Fund at Dana Farber). What's not to love? After you've finished, you can also cast your vote for the best flavor out of 30 odd options. Plus, there's nothing that says you can't go back on every day of the event! Dragon Boat Festival If you're looking to explore a little bit of Boston's multicultural side, then a trip to the iconic Dragon Boat Festival is a must. It's now in its 40th year! This is actually the longest running dragon boat race in North America. You know there's some serious competitiveness going on! Trials occur on Saturday, and races will take place on Sunday. Visitors can also enjoy Asian arts & crafts, dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, and more at the festival on Sunday. Insider tip: Watch the races from the Cambridge side of the river, because that's where the festival part takes place. Newport Folk Festival This perennial favorite festival is actually a bit outside of the immediate Boston area, but it’s well worth the trek. Previous celeb-studded lineups have featured folk legends and modern favorites from Hozier, Kacey Musgraves, Portugal. The Man, Sheryl Crow and there are even more to be announced. You’ll also find beer, cider, and wine gardens, available for the 21+ crowd. Bring a little extra cash for the merchandise tents, too. You can go home with some souvenirs or t-shirts from your favorite bands. Heading to the area to celebrate Independence Day? Then check out our post on things to do in Boston 4th of July Weekend. Oh and here are a few fun things to do in Boston Labor Day Weekend, if you're around town then. Save on Summertime Activities So there you have it. Our picks for some of the top things to do in Boston in the summer. While we’ve briefed you with a pretty extensive list, there are many more Boston attractions and popular events in the summer months. Check out all Boston tourist passes, attractions and prices. Whether you are traveling with your family or a couple of friends, we're sure you will have a great time. Please note, the summer events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with a pass by Go City. Plan to visit some of these top attractions during your trip.
Katie Sagal
pumpkin patch halloween event
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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! 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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