Boston, the capital city of Massachusetts, is a vibrant and historic city that attracts millions of visitors each year. From its rich history to its beautiful architecture and world-renowned museums, Boston has something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, there are plenty of things to see and do in this beautiful city. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Boston.
Walk the Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long trail that takes visitors on a journey through Boston’s rich history. The trail includes 16 historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, the Old North Church, and the Paul Revere House. The trail is marked by a red line on the pavement and can be easily followed on foot. Walking the Freedom Trail is a great way to explore Boston’s history and learn about the events that shaped the city and the country.
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest art museums in the United States and is home to more than 450,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photographs. Some of the museum’s highlights include works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt. The museum also hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year.
Explore Fenway Park
Fenway Park is the oldest baseball stadium in the United States and is home to the Boston Red Sox. The stadium has a rich history and has been the site of many memorable games and moments. Visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium, visit the Red Sox Hall of Fame, and even catch a game during baseball season.
Walk through Boston Common
Boston Common is a 50-acre park in the heart of the city and is the oldest public park in the United States. The park is home to a variety of monuments and memorials, including the Soldiers and Sailors Monument and the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial. Visitors can walk through the park, have a picnic, or take a ride on the famous Swan Boats.
Visit the New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is home to more than 20,000 animals, including sea turtles, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium’s main attraction is the Giant Ocean Tank, a 200,000-gallon tank that is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks. Visitors can also watch penguin feedings, take a behind-the-scenes tour, and even go on a whale-watching tour.
Walk the Charles River Esplanade
The Charles River Esplanade is a 3-mile-long park that runs along the banks of the Charles River. The park is a popular destination for walkers, runners, and cyclists and offers beautiful views of the city skyline. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or take a boat ride on the river.
Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a unique museum that is home to a collection of art and artifacts from around the world. The museum is housed in a beautiful Venetian-style palace and features works by Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and Titian. The museum also hosts a variety of special exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Take a food tour of the North End
The North End is Boston’s Little Italy and is home to some of the city’s best Italian restaurants and bakeries. Visitors can take a food tour of the neighborhood and sample traditional Italian dishes, including cannoli, pasta, and pizza. The tour also includes stops at historic landmarks, including the Paul Revere House and Old North Church.
Walk along the Harborwalk
The Harborwalk is a 43-mile-long public walkway that runs along Boston Harbor. The walkway offers beautiful views of the harbor and the city skyline and passes by many of Boston’s historic and cultural landmarks, including the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and the Institute of Contemporary Art. Visitors can walk or bike along the Harborwalk and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.
Visit the Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library is one of the oldest and largest public libraries in the United States and is a must-visit for book lovers. The library’s main branch is located in Copley Square and features stunning architecture and artwork, including murals by John Singer Sargent. Visitors can browse the library’s collection of books, attend a lecture or exhibition, or simply relax and read a book in one of the library’s reading rooms.
Conclusion
Boston is a city that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to nature lovers. Whether you’re walking the Freedom Trail, exploring Fenway Park, or enjoying a cannoli in the North End, there is always something new and exciting to discover in this vibrant and historic city. By visiting some of the best things to do in Boston, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime.