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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Boston Duck Tour

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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Boston Red Sox Game & Fenway Park Tour

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

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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New England Aquarium

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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Museum of Science

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

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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Museum of Fine Arts

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

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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north end boston
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Things to do in North End, Boston

Heading to Boston for your vacation, and keeping an eye on North End? Good choice! North End has a load of great things to do and places to eat and drink. We're going to talk about those now. Scroll down, and discover our picks for the best things to do in North End, Boston! Including: Paul Revere House Old North Church Improv Asylum Great food Great nights out and more! A House Revered Let's start our trip through North End with some history. Boston was the heart of the revolutionary efforts when the US fought for independence. On one fateful night in 1775, one man saw a frightening sight. Men clad in red, as far as the eye could see. Invaders, coming to claim what they thought was theirs. But this bastion of chivalry wasn't having any of that. So he valiantly mounted his faithful steed, and he rode. God, did he ride. If he didn't, the war could be lost. He rode and rode until he reached his countrymen. And when he pulled up in front of them, he uttered four words immortalized in this nation's heart forevermore. "The British are coming." Or did he? Find out at the Paul Revere House! Not only will you learn more about the legend himself, but you'll also discover whether there's any truth to the poem that utters his famous phrase. One of the oldest buildings in Boston, step inside the house and get a fascinating insight into colonial history. Tour the historic rooms and see authentic period furniture, real documents, and silver made by Paul himself. Clearly, he was a man of many talents. Not immortal, though, so there is that. A Statue Revered And if all that wasn't enough Revere for you, go and see the massive statue of him for yourself! Sculptor Cyrus Dallin designed this bronze statue of Revere riding his horse. His hand raised, we can only assume what Paul was gesticulating towards. Was it his fellow countrymen, patriots one and all? Or was he shooing a dog out of his path? We will never, ever know. Old North Church Sticking with the historical theme, let's talk churches. Whether you're a believer or not, there's no denying the beauty that went into their creation and ornamentation. Why not go and see one of the nation's longest-standing churches, Old North Church? Built back in 1723, and inspired by the works of British male Sir Christopher Wren, it played a key part in the War of Independence. The church's steeple held lanterns that warned the minutemen of incoming British forces. See, learning can be fun! These days, it may be less exciting, but it's still just as beautiful! You can enjoy a self-guided tour of the sanctuary, a fun family scavenger hunt, and even tour the crypt and the gallery. Of all the things to do in North End, Boston, this is definitely one of them. A gift for you In the market for some keepsakes, or perhaps a gift or two for the people you left behind? Check out the Boston Gift Shop! It's right by Paul Revere's House, so if you've been following our instructions, you'll be thereabouts anyway. For over 100 years, they've been offering reasonably priced and decently made Independence memorabilia to visitors from far and wide. So go pick up some swag and either give it away, or rub it in people's faces. It's really up to you! Winging it crazy Out with the old, in with the new, as we continue with our tour of Boston's North End. Looking for things to do? How about laughing until you can't stop? Until it hurts? If that sounds delightful, give Improv Asylum a browse. For over 20 years, they've hosted improv and sketch comedy shows for literally anyone willing to pay money. They aim to put one on every night, but head there on the weekend, and you might be spoiled by two or more! While they tend to be for all ages, midnight shows often take a turn into the crass and adult. Just what us adults want! And if that wasn't enough (is it ever?), you can also attend workshops and learn how to actually be funny. That would be nice, wouldn't it? Food, glorious food Food, yeah? It's pretty good. A necessity for humans, food is the fuel that keeps us going. Some people think they can survive on sunlight and water, but they're wrong. That's plants, not people. And when that fuel inevitably runs out, you'll be needing a top-up. Thankfully, Boston's North End has some great places to eat some great food. There are our favorites. Spoiler alert - they're all Italian. For nearly a century, Regina Pizzeria has been providing hungry visitors with fantastic pizza. And once they eat it, they're no longer hungry. Brilliant! They attest to being Boston's original Pizzeria, and who are you to question that? You weren't around then. With a menu full of the usual greats, cooked with comfort and care from scratch, it's a must-visit for slice aficionados. Fancy throwing some seafood into the mix? Check out The Daily Catch, because their Sicilian seafood pasta fishes will blow your mind and fill your tummy. Born from the mind of Paul Freddura, who turned his knowledge of the seafood trade into seafood plates, it's easily one of the best restaurants in North End. Or, if you want something a little out of the way, check out Maria's Pastry Shop. Inside, you'll find delightful Italian pastries both sweet and savory, and the best cannoli money can buy. Drink it up Let's round off this list with a round of our own. Looking for a place to sit and drink till the early morn? Here are our picks. Ex speakeasy Stanza dei Sigari is now a cigar parlor and liquor lounge. Stepping inside is like being transported back to the roaring '20s. With an enviable cocktail menu and a host of fine liquors to sample, it's a great place to wet your whistle. Looking for something a little more gutter-like? Try Corner Cafe, a dive bar with plenty of beers, sports on the TV, and a handful of cocktails classics like margaritas. It's cash only, so bear that in mind. And that's our list of the best things to do in North End, Boston!
Dom Bewley
Boston in spring
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10+ Things to Do in Boston in Spring

Boston really comes alive in the spring. As Bostonians shake off the chill of winter, the city is more than ready to offer fresh air, beautiful flowers, and amazing special events to visitors and locals alike. If you’re coming to Beantown this spring but aren’t set on what to see, check out our list of things to do in Boston in spring for some inspiration, including... New England Aquarium Whale Watch Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour Museum of Science Fenway Park Tours Swan Boat Ride Patriots Day / Marathon Monday Events and more! Visit the New England Aquarium A fun option for the kids is the perennially popular New England Aquarium, beloved by all. It’s one of the area’s most beloved attractions and it has a ton to offer new and returning visitors alike. From sharks to stingrays and everything in between, there are so many animals for you to marvel at in this modern aquarium. Spring also marks the return of the Atlantic whale-watching season, so consider hopping aboard the New England Aquarium’s whale watch. Tour the city in style Now that the weather has warmed up, it's a great opportunity to explore this lovely city. Take a charming Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour that will escort you around while highlighting major landmarks and neighborhoods with maximum flexibility. Plus, with this weather, we're sure you'll be tempted to jump off and explore on your own at least once or twice! Some of the major highlights you'll see along this tour include the New England Aquarium, Old North Church, Boston's North End, Faneuil Hall, Boston Common, and many more. Explore the Museum of Fine Arts Visitors flock to the wonderful Museum of Fine Arts year-round, but their fine collection of special exhibits in the spring months makes it especially worth a visit. Take a look at the current exhibitions on display at the MFA. This exceptional museum has one of the most comprehensive collections in the world, featuring over 500,000 objects and works of art. Explore the wonders of the Museum of Science Another iconic Boston attraction, the Museum of Science is somewhere the whole family can enjoy. Explore the astonishing and inspiring world of STEM as you wander through dozens of interactive exhibits. Some top attractions at this museum include the Hall of Human Life, which is an in-depth look at the complexities of the human body, and the Theater of Electricity, which contains the world’s largest air-insulated Van de Graaff generator. Little ones will love its "Hands-on Laboratory - where you become the scientist" and everyone will be fascinated by "Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature," which showcases elaborate numerical patterns that exist in nature. You can also visit the Butterfly Exhibit and the Planetarium for small upgrade fees. Root for the home team Spring often means one thing for Boston sports fans – the start of Red Sox season! If you’re a fan of the great game, why not snag a ticket and sit back to enjoy America's favorite pastime? Don’t forget to grab a few Fenway Franks! For additional baseball fun, take a tour of iconic Fenway Park. Picnic on the Boston Common Although Boston isn’t quite the warmest spring destination on the books, it is a charming place. With spring comes the return of the many flowers and trees in the Boston Common and in the Boston Public Garden, both of which make for some excellent warm weather strolling. If the ground is dry enough, grab some supplies and make a picnic day out of it (otherwise, grab one of the tables by the fountain on the Common to avoid the rain). While you’re in the park, why not take a ride on the historic Swan Boats? Irish Film Festival, Boston Given Boston’s proud Irish heritage, it’s no surprise that Irish filmography is a big deal in this city. The Irish Film Festival, Boston features an exciting lineup of Irish films straight from the motherland, many of which are new to the U.S. This is the biggest Irish film festival outside of Ireland, so you know it’s filled with authentic films that are must-sees for any cinephile. You’ll also get to enjoy behind-the-scenes commentary, Q&As, and other special events. Boston Flower & Garden Show Each year of this eagerly anticipated takes on a new theme. You’ll get to enjoy everything from stunning plant life displays to planting demonstrations, take in professional lectures, and learn how to develop your growing skills. Learn about adopting sustainable gardening practices and air-cleansing indoor plants. What's more, there will also be outside spaces dedicated to relaxing with pets! Patriots Day / Marathon Monday This is one of the city's favorite holidays – Patriots Day, aka Marathon Monday. Officially designated to honor the start of the American Revolution, it's also always the date of the inimitable Boston Marathon. One of the world's best races, the Boston Marathon is a tradition in the city. Come here to enjoy the festive atmosphere, get caught up in the surge of adrenaline that the whole crowd is feeling, and cheer on the runners. Just keep in mind that restaurants will be busier and the T more crowded than usual. Of course, there will also be plenty of events celebrating Patriots Day, too, including reenactments, talks, and exhibits. Check out historical attractions like the Old State House, the Paul Revere House, and many more. Or, you could take a quick detour to Lexington and Concord to check out events there Boston International Film Festival Film buffs will find much to love in Boston in April. Enjoy a wide selection of experimental and innovative films – both foreign and local – right in the heart of Boston. This five-day festival features a diversity of genres: you'll likely find a little bit of everything at this event! Tickets for individual showings start at around $12, and multi-day and full event passes are available as well.   Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City®  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 ✈️  
Katie Sagal

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