Boston

Top 10 Things to Do in Boston for First Time Visitors - Must See & Do Attractions

By Katie Sagal

As one of America’s oldest cities, Boston sure has a lot of history. There’s so much to see and do that both evokes the city’s heritage and hints at the promise of her future. A visit here is perfect for any number of travelers, whether you’re a fan of art and architecture, a history buff, or a sports fanatic.

From tours to museums and beyond, you’ll find no end to the amazing attractions here in Beantown. If you and your family are looking for the top things to do in Boston during your trip, check out our list of some of the best attractions, including...

  • Boston Duck Tour
  • Boston Red Sox Game & Fenway Park Tour
  • New England Aquarium
  • Freedom Trail Walking Tour
  • Museum of Fine Arts
  • and more!

Boston Duck Tour

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You’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to explore Boston than aboard one of their iconic Boston Duck Boat Tours. Your expert local guide will fill you in on all the best info about the landmarks you pass, and you’ll even be encouraged to “quack” at nearby locals and fellow duck boat passengers!

Traverse land and water as you roam diverse neighborhoods, from the political Beacon Hill to the cultural North End to the commercial Newbury Street. You’ll even venture out into Cambridge, where you’ll find plenty of top attractions like Harvard, MIT, many museums, and more. Some of the sites and landmarks you’ll see on your Boston duck tour include:

  • Trinity Church
  • Hancock Tower
  • Prudential Center
  • Boston Common & Boston Public Garden
  • Old North Church
  • Zakim Bridge
  • And more!

Hop aboard a duck boat and have the most enjoyable tour you’ve ever experienced.

Boston Red Sox Game & Fenway Park Tour

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Of course, sports fans may opt to go for something a bit more up their alley with a tour of Fenway Park. On this tour, you’ll go behind the scenes of one of Major League Baseball’s most historic stadiums and see all the iconic spots and artifacts throughout the park.

Highlights of the tour include all the best things you remember from Red Sox history, from the Green Monster to Pesky’s Pole to the Lone Red Seat. If you’re a real fan, why not take the opportunity to snag a few tickets to a game while you’re in town? Choose from select home games and grab yourself a Boston Red Sox game ticket.

Then, pick up a few Fenway Franks and settle in to enjoy the game!

Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour

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Another top option for exploring Boston is the flexible Hop-on Hop-off Boston Sightseeing Trolley. It circulates throughout the city, featuring major highlights at nine central stops, including:

  • Faneuil Hall
  • The North End
  • North Station & TD Garden
  • Boston Common
  • Beacon Hill
  • and more!

With the freedom to disembark at any of these stops, you’ll be able to fully customize your day of sightseeing to fit your interests. Ride along as long as the narration captivates your attention, and hop off when you find something fascinating you just have to explore.

Plus, your trolley ticket is good for two days, so you can really make the most of your pass when it comes to exploring attractions. We don’t, however, recommend that you make use of the trolley as a primary form of transportation due to traffic and frequent stops.

New England Aquarium

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Among the most popular attractions for families and adults alike is the New England Aquarium. This fantastic aquatic destination includes many marvelous sights like a massive Caribbean coral reef, a Shark & Ray Touch Tank, a lively penguin colony, and so much more.

Whether you love flashy tropical fish or playful seals, impressive sharks or lovable penguins, there’s a critter here to capture your heart. They’ve even got a 3-D IMAX screen showing breathtaking films about nature and marine life in particular, so consider picking up an IMAX ticket as well.

As an added benefit, the cost of your admission goes to support marine conservation efforts being undertaken by the aquarium, so you’re doing a good deed with your visit.

Museum of Science

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The whole family will love a visit to the Museum of Science. As an institution, Boston's Museum of Science embodies the power and promise of Boston’s greatest scientific minds, and captures the magic and wonder of discovery for visitors of all ages. Featuring over 700 (!) diverse exhibits, many of which are hands-on and totally interactive, the Museum of Science drives curiosity in all of its guests.

A not-to-be-missed area of the museum is the comprehensive Hall of Human Life, which includes dozen of interactive exhibits that explore the biology of the human body. Other popular exhibits include the Theater of Electricity, Triceratops Cliff, and the Live Animal Center, where you can watch baby chicks hatch!

You could also opt to upgrade to other fascinating areas of the museum like the planetarium or the butterfly garden, both of which amaze visitors year-round.

Freedom Trail Walking Tour

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It wouldn’t be a trip to Boston without a tour along the Freedom Trail. This iconic pathway throughout Boston highlights the major landmarks and sites of significance in the Revolutionary War, and showcases just how much history Boston really has. Featuring 11 historic sites in just under one mile of walking, the Freedom Trail is also an effective way to see the big historical highlights of Beantown.

Take the Freedom Trail Guided Walking Tour, where costumed guides narrate you with important information about Boston in the eighteenth century, and let you in on all the local legends and secrets. This red-lined path throughout the city is also free to walk on your own time, should you prefer to explore at your own pace without the commentary. Just follow the red brick road!

Museum of Fine Arts

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Art lovers will not want to overlook this fantastic museum. Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is among the most prestigious and well-curated art museums around. This museum features impressive collections of art and artifacts that span the globe. Their collections have particular strengths in American art and craftwork, textiles and fashion, European art, and art and artifacts of the ancient world.

The Art of the Americas wing, a relatively recent expansion, offers over 50 distinct galleries filled with items dating from the Pre-Columbian period through the second half of the twentieth century.

Make time to stop in the gift shop, too - it's very well stocked with a diverse selection of gifts, books, toys, clothing, and more. You'll find the ideal artsy souvenir here!

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

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Be sure to pay a visit to the JFK Presidential Library of one of our country’s most influential and charismatic leaders, John F. Kennedy. This library and museum holds the largest collection Kennedy family materials in the world, including everything from televised interviews to rare family photographs.

Follow the narrative of his presidency, and see the crises and successes that defined his time in office. Begin with a look at Kennedy on the campaign trail in 1960. You'll also see him as President in the briefing room and get to walk around a mock-up of the Oval Office the way it looked in Kennedy’s time. One of my favorite things is the opportunity you'll get to examine artifacts and objects from the Space Program that Kennedy so famously championed - a race and special chance!

There’s also a particular emphasis on the connections between JFK, the Kennedy family, and the city of Boston. It’s a wonderful attraction for anyone who loves Boston history, presidential libraries, or American history in general.

Let’s Recap

There’s our selection for some of the most popular and top 10 things to do in Boston for first-time visitors. From cruises and tours to museums and historical sites, there’s something to appeal to every interest. Consider including some of these attractions on your next trip to Boston, and we know you’ll come to love this city.

Many of these must see attractions are available on the Go Boston pass. Choose as you go from dozens of popular Boston attractions and save on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. See all available Boston passes, attractions & prices.

Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends, you’ll enjoy these amazing signature Boston attractions. Happy travels!

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Celebrate Patriots’ Day with Boston Marathon Attractions

It's Marathon day for the brave runners who are taking the plunge and running the 26.2 miles through Massachusetts. For those who are spectating rather than taking part (we don't blame you), there's plenty to keep you occupied when you're not cheering everyone on. Here's a selection of top Boston attractions to get you started, plus our beginner's guide to the Boston marathon... The Boston Marathon The Boston Athletic Association’s Marathon is traditionally run on Patriots’ Day each year, or Marathon Monday, as it is known to locals. This year, the 123rd Boston Marathon will be held on April 15. The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest marathon and is one of the most prestigious competitive races in the world. Each year, the most talented runners and dozens of charity teams come together to the run 26.2 miles through the state of Massachusetts. The course begins in the nearby suburb of Hopkinton and stretches 26 glorious miles into the heart of Boston, ending just near the John Hancock Tower in Copley Square. Locals and visitors turn Marathon Monday into a real holiday, with massive spectator events and a general celebratory atmosphere. The BAA website posts updated spectator information just before the race, including advice on the best places to watch, where to get good pictures, and where to greet your runner at the end. Boston at night And then there’s the question of what to do before the race. Because of the Boston Marathon’s elite status, the majority of the runners are not locals. A large number of runners and their support teams will be coming into the city the weekend before to celebrate and will stay after the race. For those of you from out of town who aren’t familiar with the Boston area, it might be a good idea to check out some of the popular things to do in Boston before race day. With only a few days to spend touring the city, you’ll want to be sure to take in the best Boston has to offer. To save your runner’s legs from unnecessary stress, we recommend one of the Boston Trolley Tours to start. They’ll give you a great overview of the historical and contemporary highlights of Boston, as well as providing a convenient way to hop on and off at your desired destination along the route. Or, if you are looking to keep limber, take a stroll on the Freedom Trail, a red line that stretches out through the city of Boston, past most of the historical landmarks. Take a guided tour or walk yourself along and explore the city. The beautiful Boston Harbor You can also opt to see Boston by water. Several cruises or boat tours, like the popular USS Constitution Cruise, give you an excellent view of the city’s skyline from the Boston Harbor. A spin in the harbor is an excellent photo opportunity, and a peaceful way to spend the day before the big run. So as you get ready to run, or cheer on your runner, check out some of these popular Boston attractions to make the most of your weekend in Beantown.
Andrew Martineau
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Fun Things to Do in Boston - The Ultimate Tourist Guide for Your Trip

Boston’s rich history, world-famous educational institutions, proud residents (and equally proud sports fans), and memorable things to do, make Boston a city best experienced in person. Do Boston how you want. Whether you’re traveling with kids-in-tow, planning a quick weekend getaway, meeting up with friends, or going solo, our travel guides have all you need to make the most of your trip and ensure you have a wicked good time in Boston. What are some popular attractions to visit? Boston Duck Tour - This one of a kind tour combines high-energy fun with a unique perspective on the history of Boston. New England Aquarium Whale Watch - Enjoy front row seats to view some of the ocean's most fascinating and magnificent animals. Hop On Hop Off Boston Trolley Tour - A great way to see many of the top attractions, popular shopping destinations, museums, and more. Fenway Park Tour- Don’t miss this classic Boston experience at “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark”. New England Aquarium - Your Aquarium adventure includes playful seals, eye-catching jellies, and unforgettable hands-on experiences at the Shark and Ray Touch Tank exhibit. These are just a few. Want more fun ideas for things to do in Boston? Head over here for more Boston attractions to see during your trip. How long are you visiting? Depending on how long you are planning to visit, these sample itineraries are designed to showcase a number of the most popular things to do in the city. From popular attractions to iconic landmarks, these suggestions will help you have fun-filled days of sightseeing. 1 day in Boston - sample itinerary 2 days in Boston - sample itinerary 3 days in Boston - sample itinerary more coming soon! Who are you visiting with? No matter who you're traveling with, there are a ton of fun things to do in Boston, particularly for families. We've put together a list of top attractions and activities geared towards young kids to help you plan your family vacation. Things to do in Boston with kids Things to do in Boston with teens Things to do in Boston for Adults more coming soon! What type of activities interest you? Top Boston museums Top places to take pictures in Boston Visiting Boston on a budget more coming soon! What parts of Boston are you visiting? We highlighted a handful of the top attractions, places to see, and which Boston neighborhoods to visit during your vacation. Boston neighborhoods guide Things to do near Fenway Park & Back Bay Things to do near Faneuil Hall, the Waterfront & North End Things to do in Cambridge, MA Things to do in Salem, MA When are you visiting? Check out our lists of things to do in the city throughout the year to make the most of your itinerary and experience unique, calendar-based events. Boston in the Spring Boston in the Summer Boston in the Fall Boston in the Winter What's the best way to get around? Boston is pretty easy to navigate. Neighborhoods are clustered close together and easily explored on foot, taxis and shared ride services are always available, and even though it’s the oldest in the nation, the public transportation system, the “T,” is very reliable and can get you just about anywhere. Public transportation fare: you can purchase fare and store value on or CharlieTickets at most T stations or from MBTA Customer Service Agents at select locations. Tip: for quick subway reference or get the free moovit app for point-to-point trip planning and real-time updates for both subway and bus routes. Taxis: taxis are available and easy to hail down and shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available and easy to use. Hop-on hop-off tours: a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour (included with your pass) is a great way to get acquainted with the city and get around to popular attractions. Looking for more info? Check out our post on getting around Boston for tourists. Where should you stay? There are plenty of great places to stay in the area. Below are a handful of hotel suggestions located near popular tourist attractions and fun things to do. Boston Marriot Long Wharf Boston Harbor Hotel Courtyard Boston Downtown Harborside Inn Marriott Vacation Club Pulse at Custom House, Boston Where should you shop? In between sightseeing, try and find time to pick up some souvenirs. Here are a few popular areas to get some shopping in. Copley Place Shops at Prudential Center Cambridgeside Galleria Faneuil Hall Market Place Assembly Row Make sure to check out all of the extra discounts and savings available on the Go Boston Card. Where should you eat? Go on a tour of Boston’s foodie scene with this comprehensive list of some of the best places to eat in Boston. We’ve included top picks for seafood, drinks with a view, Italian food, coffee shops, and brunch. We’ve even included a few nearby attractions so you can sightsee while you taste your way through Boston’s culinary destinations. No judgment. Fun Info from a Local It’s “Boston,” not “Beantown” Pahking yah cah in Hahvad Yahd is actually challenging, avoid having to look for a parking spot by making use of the “T” The Italian food in the North End rivals that of Italy You haven’t seen Boston until you’ve experienced Fenway Park The best way to prepare for the weather is to prepare for all weather Dunkin’ Donuts > Starbucks (#loyaltodeath) The Boston Common is the oldest public park in the US Share your adventure with us! Tag us when you upload photos from your trip to Instagram: @GoCity or #GoCityCard.
Casey Makovich
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Tips for Visiting Plimoth Plantation This Season

If you’re a history buff, then a visit to Plimoth Plantation should be on your must-do list the next time you visit Boston. Roughly an hour and a half south of Boston proper, it makes for a great afternoon exploring and is the perfect attraction for families with kids. From a lovingly recreated seventeenth-century village to an authentic version of the original Mayflower vessel that brought the early English settlers to what would become Plymouth, Massachusetts, the entire region is immersed in history. Learn about the story of the two cultures that coexisted in the area for much of the period’s early history – the English settlers and the Wampanoag tribe. See how they each lived, and how they interacted with one another, for good and for bad. It’s also a unique opportunity to interact with modern historians, artisans, and craftspeople who can tell you all about what life was like for early American settlers. Looking for Plimoth Plantation Discount Tickets? We’ve got you covered – Plimoth Plantation/Plimoth Grist Mill 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. Tips for Visiting the Plimoth Plantation Pick up a self-guided tour map at the Visitor Center to plan your route through the various exhibits, keeping in mind that you will spend much of your time outdoors. Don’t be shy! The staff members are there to answer questions and they love to interact with guests. Because a few of the pathways in the area are comprised of rough, unpaved material, walking may be a challenge for children, the elderly, or anyone with special mobility needs. Consult the site maps to find wheelchair and stroller accessible routes – which, don’t worry, are available to all sites. If you get hungry, there’s food available at the café in the Visitor Center, as well as at seasonal pushcarts located outside. You’ll even be able to sample traditional seventeenth-century fare! Parking is plentiful and free in lots adjacent to the attraction. Although the critters in the fields and at the Nye Barn look friendly, don’t pet them unless you’re specifically told it’s ok. Save on up to 55% admission to Plimoth Plantation and other great Boston attractions with the all-inclusive Go Boston® Card. While you may be tempted to attend in costume, the park politely requests that you refrain from wearing a costume to avoid confusing other guests. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out Plimoth Plantation’s handy “Parent’s Guide” for special info on how to make the most of your children’s experience at this special historic site. When to Visit Because Plimoth Plantation can take a few hours to fully explore, it’s best to reserve at least half a day for this attraction, including travel time. Warmer months are more suitable for walking around outside, although their holiday celebrations in December are definitely worth a visit (keeping in mind that all outdoor exhibits are closed in the winter). They also host special Thanksgiving events, too! It’s also less busy in the spring than in the summer or fall, so if you can plan a spring getaway to Boston, keep Plimoth Plantation in mind! If you're planning on behalf of a school group looking to visit Plimoth Plantation (and it is an immensely popular field trip destination in the region), then you may also want to consider a trip that doesn't line up with Spring Break or Easter time. Many local families will be taking advantage of the time off to come visit Plimoth Plantation during those weeks, and you'll run into greater crowds. What to Bring Comfortable walking shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty; there is little pavement in many places and a lot of gravel A hat and sunscreen in the summer, warm clothing in the fall A camera, smartphone, or other recording device -- you'll want to take scads of pictures! Money for souvenirs Snacks or bottled water if you’d prefer not to purchase any at the gift shop or Visitor Center What to Do ThereWampanoag Homesite Image credit: Plimoth Plantation. A visit to this portion of the historic site provides a unique opportunity to interact with members of the Wampanoag people, modern descendants of the Native Americans who encountered the English settlers centuries ago. Ask them anything about their culture and history, and they’re happy to provide context for their historic experience and contemporary culture. Don’t miss out on a chance to see authentic Wampanoag structures and accoutrements as well! 17th-Century English Village Credit: Plimoth Plantation Facebook Page Located right next to the Wampanoag Homesite, this is a carefully recreated model of a small agrarian community that was originally built in the early seventeenth century by English settlers. Mimicking the conditions and experiences of early Plymouth settlers, this village is the perfect place to indulge your historical interests. Interact with costumed actors who play the role of early colonial settlers and can answer questions about everything from cooking and housekeeping to religion and the social scene. Craft Center Image credit: Plimoth Plantation. You can even purchase plates just like these! Here is where you’ll find the artists and artisans of the 17th century village – both Native and English – and their productions. See examples of authentic historic handiwork like cooking pots, clothing, candles, accessories, and even weapons. Speak to each of the artisans about their craft and learn about how these things were made in the seventeenth century. Don’t forget to pick up few examples in the gift shop! They offer genuine artisan-made work that's ideal for that special souvenir. Mayflower II* Image Credit: Plimoth Plantation Facebook page This is arguably the most popular exhibit. The Mayflower II is, as you might imagine, a recreated model of the original vessel that brought the English settlers to American shores. It’s located at the nearby State Pier and is a brief drive from the main attraction. The Mayflower II features exhibits that retell the story of that perilous ocean voyage, including how the travelers managed to navigate the open ocean for so long. Scope out the various different areas of the ship, including living quarters, kitchen facilities, and much more. * Please note that the Mayflower II is currently undergoing extensive restoration efforts and is not on display at the moment. Plimoth Grist Mill Image credit: Plimoth Plantation. Just a short walk along the waterfront from the Mayflower II, the Plimoth Grist Mill recreates the early colony’s experience with grinding corn for food. After originally grinding the crop by hand, the early settlers constructed a water-powered grist mill that would significant speed up the process. The mill itself is a reproduction of that seventeenth century structure, and it’s pretty cool in its own right – the materials are all from the early nineteenth century and come from the remains of another mill in Philadelphia. Nye Barn Image credit: Plimoth Plantation. Love animals? Then you’ve come to the right place! Plimoth Plantation has its own collection of livestock including cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, turkeys, and more. These creatures all represent rare and heritage breeds that Plimoth Plantation works hard to conserve due to their rarity in the wild or in other domestic capacities. Be sure to pop inside the barn to see the photographs and other elements of the exhibits explaining the heritage of these animals and the role animals like these played in the early English settlement at Plymouth. Nearby Attractions While Plimoth Plantation itself is a bit of a drive south of Boston, it’s still within an easy to moderate drive of plenty of other great urban attractions. Spend the morning in Plymouth and then head back up to Beantown for some great afternoon fun. Or, take a shorter drive out to the Cape in the summer months for a relaxing few hours. Before you leave, take a walking tour of Plymouth for a sense of the greater historical significance of the area. In the summer months, a relaxing Cape Cod Canal Cruise is a great option for the whole family Trying to venture further afield? Then hop aboard the convenient Martha’s Vineyard Ferry for a trip out to this most famous of vacation spots. Visiting during the warmer months and looking to stay active on the beach? Rent a bike in Cape Cod and pedal the shoreline to your heart’s content. Interested in keeping with the historical vibe? Boston has you covered, with everything from the grand Old State House to the magnificent John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. For more information on getting around the Boston area and some general Boston travel tips, check out this handy guide. Places to Eat Nearby Patuxet Café is the attraction’s own dining option, featuring seventeenth-century inspired food plus modern choices. Hearth n’ Kettle is a great option for rustic American fare. East Bay Grille is the perfect waterfront surf and turf destination. Pebbles is a delightful comfort food option. Isaac’s Restaurant will appeal to families with its seafood-inspired menu but casual atmosphere. Several fast food options like Wendy's and McDonald's are available for a quick lunch or dinner. Just need coffee? Dunkin is right down the street. (Actually, there are about 3 or 4 Dunkin locations in the neighborhood, because...Massachusetts). Need to Know Hours Vary seasonally; consult attraction website for current operating hours. Keep in mind that most exhibits are closed between mid-November and mid-March, with the exception of special holiday events and programming. Directions 137 Warren Avenue Plymouth, MA 02360 Driving, from Boston: I-93 S to Route 3 S. Take left exit 4 (Plimoth Plantation Highway) and follow signs to Plimoth Plantation. For more information, visit the official Plimoth Plantation website. Save on Admission It wouldn’t be a trip to Massachusetts without some good old-fashioned historical fun! So don’t miss out on your chance to relive our nation’s early history at a pivotal time and place. And remember, with the Go Boston® Card, you can save up to 55% on admission to Plimoth Plantation and other great historical attractions.
Katie Sagal

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