Boston is a wondrous and popular historic hub that overflows with activities for everybody.
But, there are countless fantastic places and more exciting getaways outside the limits of the city.
From scenic hiking trails to jaw-dropping ocean adventures, you’ll find a plethora of epic and fun things to do near Boston, MA.
So, check out our recommendations, and start crafting your dream vacation.
1. Tour the Harvard University Campus
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 495-1000
Click Here To See Ticket Price
Taking a Harvard campus tour should be at the top of everyone’s list of things to do near Boston, MA.
Not only is the campus filled with gorgeous buildings, but it’s also home to the highly acclaimed Harvard Museum of Natural History.
Why we recommend going here
A visit to this renowned university gives you a sneak peek into the life of a Harvard student.
You’ll get exclusive information from students who will provide some fun tidbits and an overview of the university’s history.
Plus, it lets you see an array of architectural styles, like the Romanesque-designed Server Hall and Georgian-style Holden Hall.
As a bonus, the university is home to a can’t-miss natural history museum.
Distance from Boston
Harvard is just 3 miles away from Boston via Broadway.
In fact, it’s a quick 11-minute drive from some of the best hotels in Boston for families.
Alternatively, you may also take the subway (red line) to get to the university.
Recommended Hotel Near Harvard University: The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Related: Places to Dine in Cambridge
Related: Best Hotels in Boston for Families
2. Plimoth Plantation
137 Warren Ave
Plymouth, MA 02360
Click Here To See Ticket Price
Plimoth Plantation is truly one of the best historical attractions near Boston, Massachusetts.
Known as a living history museum, this hidden gem gives you a glimpse of the 17th century Massachusetts.
Why we recommend going here
The plantation recreates the settlement of the Pilgrims in its main exhibit: the 1627 English Village.
From costumes and vocabulary to artistry and crops, everything in the village has been thoroughly researched and recreated.
Acting in character, costumed interpreters will explain the details of the village’s 17th-century life as well as answers some of your questions.
Distance from Boston
The fastest way to get to the plantation from Boston is to drive MA-4 S.
Depending on your speed, the trip may take around 40 minutes to an hour.
Recommended Hotel Near Plimoth Plantation: Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Plymouth
Related: Top Boston Attractions
3. Gloucester Whale Watching
63 Rogers St
Gloucester, MA 01930
(978) 283-1776
Click Here To See Ticket Price
My family and I have so many pleasant memories of our Gloucester whale watching tour.
Truthfully, there’s no tour in Massachusetts quite as spectacular as this Gloucester cruise.
Why we recommend going here
It’s a spellbinding experience that offers you a rare opportunity to spot gigantic and friendly whales up close.
Plus, it also lets you see other fascinating creatures, such as dolphins as well as birds that beautifully plummet into the ocean to grab their meal.
On top of it all, the tour features knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who’ll share insightful information about these aquatic creatures.
Distance from Boston
Gloucester, via MA-128 N, is 39.4 miles from Boston.
On average, the drive will take around 44 minutes.
Recommended Hotel Near Gloucester Whale Watching: Atlantis Oceanfront Inn Gloucester
Related: Must Try Restaurants in Gloucester
Related: Best Family Resorts Near Boston
4. Blue Hills Reservation
695 Hillside St
Milton, MA 02186
(617) 698-1802
Blue Hills Reservation is a paradise for nature lovers, outdoor aficionados and budget-conscious travelers.
With photogenic nature sights and miles of hiking trails, it offers a host of free and cheap activities to offer to adventurers
With its gorgeous natural backdrop, it’s also one of the most romantic places to visit near the city.
Why we recommend going here
Blue Hills has a lot to offer to both seasoned hikers as well as those who just want to take a relaxing stroll through breathtaking scenery.
From kid-friendly hikes to challenging loops, the area has a variety of trails suited for all levels.
Our favorite trail here is the Skyline Loop, which lets you climb several peaks within the Blue Hills range.
Distance from Boston
Surprisingly, the park is pretty close to downtown Boston, with a distance of 10.5 miles via I-93 S.
The drive will only take around 14 to 20 minutes.
If you’re a nature lover looking for cool places to go near the city, this park is absolutely your best bet.
Recommended Hotel Near Blue Hills Reservation: Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston/Canton, MA
Related: Best Things to Do in Boston
5. Sail on Fame
86 Wharf St
Salem, MA 01970
(978) 729-7600
Click Here To See Ticket Price
Don’t get us wrong. There are plenty of incredibly fun things to do in Boston with kids.
But, if you really up the fun a few notches, you should take a sailing excursion on Fame, a full-scale replica of the first private schooner in America.
Why we recommend going there
It’s the perfect family-friendly adventure for kids or anyone who gets bored easily.
After all, this historic sailing excursion keeps everyone engaged by allowing everyone to help with tasks, such as steering the boat and raising the sails.
The sights of nature are also enthralling and the crew will share stories of Salem’s storied past.
Distance from Boston
Salem is a quick 30-minute drive (15 miles) from Boston via MA-1A N and MA-107 N.
Recommended Hotel Near Sail on Fame: Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites
Related: Best Beaches Near Boston, MA
6. Mount Auburn Cemetery
580 Mt Auburn St
Cambridge, MA 02138
I know a visit to a cemetery doesn’t seem quite an appealing experience.
But, trust me, Mount Auburn Cemetery is by far one of the most fascinating places to visit near Boston.
Why we recommend going here
Established in 1831, this peaceful and beautiful 175-acre graveyard is the first ever garden cemetery in the country.
Listed as a National Historic Landmark, this cemetery is filled with striking landscapes, elaborate sculptures and eye-catching artworks.
What’s more, it’s the burial ground to several famous people, including Winslow Homer and Mary Baker Eddy.
Distance from Boston
To get to the cemetery from Boston, drive Storrow Dr and Soldiers Field Rd.
Travel time is 13 minutes and distance is 6.2 miles.
Recommended Hotel Near in Mount Auburn Cemetery: Le Meridien Boston Cambridge
7. The Peabody Essex Museum
161 Essex St
Salem, MA 01970
(978) 745-9500
A great way to spend a day away from Boston is to explore Salem’s Peabody Essex Museum.
One of the state’s largest museums, it’s home to some of the most important collections of Asian and American in the country.
Why we recommend going here
The museum is one of the most impressive places to see near Boston.
Drop by to experience history and art from New England and around the world.
This treasure trove showcases New England art architecture and maritime art.
It has over 20 historic buildings and features around 1.3 million exhibits.
Distance from Boston
From Boston, drive MA-1A N and MA-107 N to reach the museum.
Distance of the route is 15.6 miles and travel time is 31 minutes.
Recommended Hotel Near The Peabody Essex Museum: The Salem Inn
8. Harvard Square
18 Brattle St#352
Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 491-3434
Looking for more free things to do and see near Boston?
I suggest that you spend a few hours exploring Harvard Square.
Iconic and energetic, this bustling center is jam-packed with buskers, quirky boutiques, bars, cafes, restaurants and Harvard students.
Why we recommend going there
Wandering around the square and simply people-watching can be quite entertaining by itself.
Whether you’re visiting it at night or day, the atmosphere here is always lively.
In my opinion, it has the energetic and fun vibe of a quintessential European square.
Moreover, it’s an excellent place to hang out in the evenings.
Distance from Boston
The square is a 12-minute drive (5.2 miles) from the city via Storrow and Soldiers Field Rd.
While there’s public transportation available, driving is the easiest and fastest route.
Recommended Hotel Near Harvard Square: Le Meridien Boston Cambridge
9. Portland Vintage Fire Truck Tour
180 Commercial St
Portland, ME 04101
(207) 252-6358
I can’t think of a better way to see Portland than this extraordinary sightseeing adventure.
With this city tour, you’ll be seeing some of the most beloved Portland landmarks aboard a real-life vintage fire truck.
Why we recommend going here
It’s more than just a sightseeing tour.
You’ll be listening to a live narration, as you explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, historic sites and scenic coast on a classic fire truck.
You’ll learn more about the city’s maritime past and even have some time to browse souvenirs.
Also, we really love the mesmerizing views of the architecture and lighthouses from high up on the truck engine.
Distance from Boston
Portland is less than 2 hours away from Boston. I suggest that you take the I-95 N route since it’s the fastest way to get to Portland. Travel time usually is 1 hour and 49 minutes and distance is 112.2 miles.
Recommended Hotel Near Portland Vintage Fire Truck Tour: The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel
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List of image sources
9 Fun Things to Do Near Boston, MA for 2023
- Harvard University
- Plimoth Plantation
- Gloucester whale watching
- Blue Hills Reservation
- Sail on Fame
- Mount Auburn Cemetery
- The Peabody Essex Museum
- Harvard Square
- Portland Vintage fire truck tour
FAQs
9 Fun Things to Do Near Boston, MA (2023): Best Places to Visit!? ›
The city's most prominent tourist area is around Boston Common and Faneuil Hall, with many historic sights and waterfront attractions.
What is the most touristy part of Boston? ›The city's most prominent tourist area is around Boston Common and Faneuil Hall, with many historic sights and waterfront attractions.
How many days are enough to explore Boston? ›Most people visit for three to four days, and I think that's a perfect amount of time. As someone who's lived there, I can say that, since Boston is so small, you won't waste a lot of time “in transit,” so you can pack a lot into your days.
What towns are 30 minutes from Boston? ›- 30 miles: Carterville, MA.
- 30 miles: Miles Standish Park, MA.
- 30 miles: Still River, MA.
- 30 miles: Rowley Shore, MA.
- 30 miles: Miramar, MA.
- 30 miles: West Parish, MA.
- 30 miles: Attleboro Falls, MA.
- 30 miles: Northborough, MA.
One of the largest cities in Massachusetts, Lynn is also the cheapest Boston suburb has something to offer for everyone. It's less than four miles outside the Boston city limits and one of the cheapest places to live near Boston in the inner urban core.
What is the prettiest Boston Street? ›That street is on Beacon Hill in Boston. It is Acorn Street. "If there could only be one picturesque neighborhood in Boston, it would be Beacon Hill," Architectural Digest stated.
What is the prettiest area of Boston? ›Known as the prettiest neighbourhood in Boston
Beacon Hill is known as being one of the most picturesque parts of Boston. Located next to Downtown, it's bordered by the Charles River to the west and Boston Common to the south.
The best time to visit Boston is from June to October. Mild autumn weather makes touring around on foot a joy. And even though summer brings in swarms of tourists and expensive hotel rates, the sidewalk cafes, baseball games and outdoor concerts make it worth a trip.
What is the cheapest month to visit Boston? ›Boston is one of the more expensive cities to visit in the United States, so I don't blame you for trying to save money where you can. But if you're looking for the cheapest time of year to visit Boston, you may want to consider visiting during January or February.
What are the cheapest months to travel to Boston? ›When is the Most Affordable Time to Visit Boston? If you're looking to save during your trip, we suggest heading to the city during the winter months, particularly in January or February. Because late winter is considered a prime off-season, visitors can catch great deals on flights, hotels, and attractions.
What historical town is near Boston? ›
Old Sturbridge Village: More Than a Museum
Welcome to Old Sturbridge Village, a recreated 1830s rural New England town! Explore our 200+ acres and 40 historical buildings, chat with costumed historians as they work the tasks of the past, and be inspired by the stories of early 19th-century rural New England life.
Falmouth. Falmouth is a great Cape Cod town if you want to be close to Boston and other New England destinations while still enjoying the Cape Cod lifestyle and beaches.
What is the closest Vermont city from Boston? ›About Vernon VT
Vernon, Vermont is a small town nestled between Brattleboro, the Connecticut River, and the Massachusetts border. Vernon is only 2 hours from Boston.
The safest neighborhood in Boston is Allston-Brighton. One of the largest neighborhoods in Boston, Allston has a population of 70,469 and a very low crime rate. In 2022, the violent crime rate in the neighborhood was 315 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, making it safer than 82% of other cities in Massachusetts.
What is the most expensive town near Boston? ›1. Seaport. The richest neighborhood in Boston is Seaport.
What is a comfortable salary to live in Boston? ›A new report from SmartAsset says a single person in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton metro area has to pull in a salary of almost $80,000 a year to "live comfortably." The study is based on a theoretical budget where a person spends half their income on needs, 30% on "wants" and the rest on savings or repaying debt.
What is Boston coolest street? ›The Back Bay street once known for its designer shops and historic brownstones is now home to some of the best new restaurants, funkiest speakeasies and chic-est boutique hotels Boston has to offer.
What is the most famous street in Boston? ›Get MORE out of your summer in Boston aboard the iconic Old Town Trolley and see the best first! One of the most photographed streets in the city, Acorn Street offers visitors a reminiscent ride back to colonial Boston.
What is the famous walk in Boston? ›Freedom Trail® Boston
The Freedom Trail is a unique collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks, a ship, and historic markers that tell the story of the American Revolution and beyond.
- Boston baked beans.
- Cannoli.
- Boston cream pie.
- Clam chowder.
- Frappes.
- Lobster rolls.
- Roast beef sandwich.
- Yankee pot roast.
What is the most scenic walk in Boston? ›
Charles River Walk (5.7 km, 13 m, 1.5-2h): One of the most scenic features of Boston is the Charles River. Walking alongside the river is the best way to see incredible views of both Cambridge and Boston, depending what side you're on.
What is the most expensive part of Boston? ›Most Expensive Places to Live in Boston
So if you plan to live in Back Bay, South End, Seaport, Bay Village, or Downtown, expect to see some hefty price tags for homes and apartment rentals. If you're looking to purchase a single-family home in Boston, you won't find many in these downtown neighborhoods.
The driest month in Boston is July with 3.06 inches of precipitation, and with 3.98 inches November is the wettest month.
Do you need car in Boston? ›Visitors Probably Don't Need a Car
Because Boston's public transport system does the job, you probably won't need to rent a car for your stay in the city. Just make sure to pick a hotel or apartment rental in a convenient location.
Winter in Boston - December, January, February, and usually part of March - means cold days and colder nights. Some of the most brilliantly beautiful days of the entire year occur during the winter - clear crisp air, blue skies, bright (if not warm) sunshine, and perhaps sparkling snow on the ground.
Is Boston cheaper than NYC to visit? ›New York City is more expensive than Boston but not by much. NYC ranks the most expensive city in the US, while Boston is fourth (San Francisco and Honolulu are 2 and 3). The cost of living in New York is 129% higher than the national average, whereas it's only about 48% higher in Boston.
What week are fall colors best in Boston? ›Each year, the changing of the leaves tend to begin at different times. However, generally speaking, you'll start to see splashes of color around mid-September. By early October, fall leaf colors become more pronounced. Peak season usually comes in about the 3rd week of October.
Is Boston expensive for tourists? ›You should plan to spend around $254 per day on your vacation in Boston, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, $49 on meals for one day and $35 on local transportation. Also, the average hotel price in Boston for a couple is $331.
How much is dinner in Boston? ›This makes it one of the most expensive places in the country to eat. The average person in Boston should budget around $349 every month for food. If you're dining out, expect to pay between $15 and $40 per person, depending on the type of restaurant.
What month is cheaper to fly? ›Top tips for finding cheap flights to California
High season is considered to be June and July. The cheapest month to fly to California is January. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest California flight deals.
What's the cheapest time of year to fly? ›
Winter is the bargain season to travel, and you can also wait longer to purchase your airline tickets than in any other season. If you like, in the winter months you can wait up to 26 days before departure to get a good flight deal. The spring and fall shoulder seasons offer the next lowest prices for travelers.
What towns are 1 hour from Boston? ›- Plymouth. Plymouth, Massachusetts, shares its name with an old English seaside town, and it's mostly known as the spot where the Mayflower docked and established a colony 400 years ago. ...
- Plimoth. ...
- Portsmouth. ...
- Newport. ...
- Newburyport. ...
- Lincoln. ...
- Cambridge. ...
- Providence.
Over the years, Acorn Street has become one of Boston's popular tourist destinations. Its 19th-century charm, colorful flowers in the window boxes, antique gas lamps along the narrow brick sidewalks all add to its character. And then there's the eye-catching historical treasure: the cobblestones.
What is the best historical area to stay in Boston? ›First-time visitors to Boston should stay in Back Bay due to its historical landmarks, great location, and abundance of accommodation options. Back Bay also offers a perfect representation of the entire city in one small neighborhood.
How far is the Cape from Boston? ›The distance between Boston and the Cape is only about 70 miles, close enough that Bostonians and its visitors can enjoy an easy weekend getaway, or even venture to Hyannis, Provincetown or Falmouth for a day trip.
What is Cape Cod Massachusetts famous for? ›Cape Cod is famous for sandy beaches, lobster rolls, and laid-back fun. But the Cape and Islands have also been the inspiration for some incredible, unique brands and products inspired by seaside life.
Can you do a day trip to Cape Cod from Boston? ›The short answer: Yes, it's possible to take a day trip to Cape Cod from Boston. On my last trip to Boston, we did just that and took the ferry from Boston to Provincetown for the day. And, yes, it was totally worth it! Here are some tips and tricks for doing the same.
How much is the train from Boston to Vermont? ›| Daily Trains | 10 |
|---|---|
| Earliest and Latest Train Departures | 5:00AM - 12:57PM |
| Minimum Price | $81 |
| Average Ticket Price | $222 |
| Minimum Trip Duration | 11h30m |
Route 100 (5 Hours 45 Minutes Without Stops)
This is the longest driving route from Boston to Stowe, VT, but also allows you the opportunity to drive most of Route 100 through Vermont, which is one of the most scenic drives you can take in the New England countryside.
The heart of Vermont's communities, walkable town centers are steeped in history with cultural attractions, space for social gatherings and memorable shopping and dining experiences. If you're looking for an unforgettable downtown experience, look no further than Newport, Winooski and Waterbury.
Where not to stay in Boston? ›
Boston is a very safe city for the most part, but like any other city, there are some neighborhoods worth avoiding. I recommend new visitors to Boston avoid Mattapan, Roxbury, Hyde Park, and some parts of Dorchester like Savin Hill as well as most of East Somerville and the northwest part of Charlestown. What is this?
Is downtown Boston safe at night? ›Generally, yes. This is one of the safest neighborhoods in Boston. It's central and there's lot of restaurants, shops, tourist spots, and more in the area.
Is Fenway Park in a safe area? ›Fenway-Kenmore is home to Fenway Park, Boston Red Sox's ballpark, and is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. It is also among the safest areas to stay in Boston as it is safer than 76% of the cities in Massachusetts.
What is the richest town in Massachusetts? ›1. Dover. The richest town in Massachusetts is Dover. Situated along the southern banks of the Charles River, this city sits about 40 minutes from Boston and is a predominantly residential area.
What is the wealthy island near Boston? ›Martha's Vineyard, often simply called the Vineyard, is an island in the Northeastern United States, located south of Cape Cod in Dukes County, Massachusetts, known for being a popular, affluent summer colony.
What is the most expensive shopping street in Boston? ›International Designer Boutiques on Boston's Newbury Street
Generally speaking, the most famous (and most expensive) brands occupy prime real estate on the eastern end of Newbury Street close to the Public Garden.
As of May 21, 2023, the average annual pay for the Upper Class jobs category in Boston is $58,181 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $27.97 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,118/week or $4,848/month.
What is minimum wage in Boston? ›Massachusetts' state minimum wage rate is $15.00 per hour. This is greater than the Federal Minimum Wage of $7.25. You are entitled to be paid the higher state minimum wage.
How much do you need to live in Boston for a month? ›A family of four estimated monthly costs are 4,639.6$ without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,284.5$ without rent. Boston is 10.9% less expensive than New York (without rent). Rent in Boston is, on average, 24.5% lower than in New York.
What is the best area to stay in Boston for first time visitors? ›The best areas to stay in Boston for first-timers are Downtown, Financial District, Beacon Hill, Back Bay, South Boston, South End, and North End. These are popular neighborhoods for tourists that offers a wide variety of attractions and amenities.
Where is the hipster part of Boston? ›
Back Bay. Back Bay is filled with trendy shops, boutiques, restaurants, and vintage brownstone homes on Commonwealth Avenue. With many of the city's main shopping areas nearby – Newbury Street, Prudential Center, and Boylston Street – this neighborhood is in the middle of the hub.
What is the most popular street in Boston? ›One of the most photographed streets in the city, Acorn Street offers visitors a reminiscent ride back to colonial Boston.
Where is the sketchy parts of Boston? ›The most dangerous neighborhood in Boston is Central. Although this area is in the heart of the city and has a population of around 33,000 residents, it is considered the worst part of Boston. Central's violent crime rate is exorbitantly high, being 321% higher than the national average.
What is the safest part of Boston to stay in? ›South End. Bordered by Chinatown, Back Bay, and Roxbury, South End is one of Boston's most culturally diverse and safe neighborhoods. It is located a few minutes from downtown, making it one of the most popular neighborhoods in Boston.
What is the fancy street in Boston? ›Newbury Street is located in Boston's elegant Back Bay neighborhood. All the shops can be found along 8 blocks sandwiched between the Public Garden and Massachusetts Avenue.
What is the famous Brick Street in Boston? ›Over the years, Acorn Street has become one of Boston's popular tourist destinations. Its 19th-century charm, colorful flowers in the window boxes, antique gas lamps along the narrow brick sidewalks all add to its character. And then there's the eye-catching historical treasure: the cobblestones.
What is the prettiest street in Massachusetts? ›Famous for its steep, narrow streets lined with classically American Federal–style (and a few Victorian) row houses, Beacon Hill was built in 1795, and it shows,” The website wrote. Specifically, the website listed Acorn Street, which is a well-known cobblestone street.
What is the main shopping St in Boston? ›When it comes to shopping in Boston, Back Bay's Newbury Street is the trendiest destination. Rain or shine, its sidewalks are filled with throngs of shoppers from all over the world. Though this stretch may be the most popular, Boston has plenty of other great places to shop.
What is the best shopping street in Boston? ›Newbury Street & Boylston Street
Arguably the most popular shopping streets in Boston are Newbury Street and Boylston Street, located in the Back Bay. On Newbury Street, you'll find high-end shops, local boutiques, and a variety of restaurants.
Boston. Mass and Cass, also known as Methadone Mile or Recovery Road, is an impoverished area/tent city located at and around the intersection of Melnea Cass Boulevard and Massachusetts Avenue in Boston, Massachusetts. It has been characterized as "the epicenter of the region's opioid addiction crisis."
What is considered the hood in Boston? ›
The streets within the Boston ghetto and urban areas are now some of the most gentrified in the country, with many neighborhoods undergoing gradual changes. Despite this, the South End, Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan remain home to numerous Boston hoods, all contributing to the city's unique identity.
What is the safest city in Boston? ›The safest neighborhood in Boston is Allston-Brighton. One of the largest neighborhoods in Boston, Allston has a population of 70,469 and a very low crime rate. In 2022, the violent crime rate in the neighborhood was 315 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, making it safer than 82% of other cities in Massachusetts.