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June 4, 2026
Boston has more of a large town feel to it than that of a metropolis. You’ll can find friendly locals, die-hard sports fans, great bars, good restaurants, and a ton of American history.
While it's not an inexpensive city to visit, this guide should help you plan a trip that won't break the bank,
Look into a Boston City Pass to see if it's worth your while to purchase one.
It covers 4 Boston attractions: It includes the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science, then you pick 2 more attractions of your choosing: Boston Harbor City Cruise, Franklin Zoo, View Boston Observation Deck, the Harvard Museum of Natural History.
Currently this CityPass is selling for $79 (adult) and you can save up to 48% on Boston attractions.
Check into the Go City pass as well.
The Go City Boston pass has two options:
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One where you choose from 2, 3, 4, or 5 attractions – This is great because you get to choose which attractions you visit.
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Another where you choose how long you’ll be in town–1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7 days–and you get to visit as many of the attractions as you like in that time.
Definitely get a Boston Museum Pass before you go!
The Boston Public Library offers these FREE passes that provide free or discounted admission to local museums, aquariums, and historic sites. Some passes may require you to make a reservation at the museum in advance.
Money $aving Tips: Discount and coupon codes here!
Here are some options for coupon books and discounts in Boston:
Entertainment Coupon Book: Offers thousands of handpicked coupons for dining, travel, wellness, and more, with new offers added daily.
Boston Discounts: A variety of deals, discounts, and sightseeing passes available for visitors and residents, with potential savings of 10%-50%.
Groupon: Find book discounts and deals in Boston, with potential savings of up to 70%.
Valpak Coupons: Provides printable coupons for local businesses in Boston, allowing you to save on various
services.
Many museums/attractions are free or reduced price on certain days or at certain times. For instance, you can get:
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$5 admission to the Museum of Fine Arts every Wednesday beginning at 3 pm (they close at 4:30)
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Free admission to the Institute of Contemporary Art every Thursday from 5-9 pm
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$1 admission to the Boston Children’s Museum every Friday night from 5-9 pm and half price admission during the last hour of the day every other day of the week *both currently on pause
But be sure to check each attraction individually to be sure. Try searching for: “[name of attraction or museum] free days”.
Tours
Boston has a plethora of awesome walking tours that will help you know the city better. Bites of Boston offers four different food tours around town, each in a distinct neighborhood, starting from $95 USD per person while history buffs can check out Boston History Company for in-depth history tours ($20 USD). If you’re on a tight budget, Free Tours by Foot offers free walking tours around town. They’re a great way to get oriented and see the major sights without breaking the bank. Just be sure to tip your guide!
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE BOSTON! Unless you have a death wish and want to spend 95% of your vacation asking for directions. Then go ahead and attempt to drive Boston on your own.
Whoever designed Boston's one-way no-rhyme-or-reason streets was on drugs!
We once filed a missing person report on my cousin who didn't come home for 2 days! Turned out he was just trying to get home from work.
Boston has the oldest public transportation subway in the country. The “T” is straightforward to use. My suggestion is to buy a roundtrip CharlieTicket from a subway vending machine to start. The fare cost is the same regardless of which stop you get off at. You can always add more money for additional trips.
The city is extremely compact and if you stay in a central location, most attractions are within a 30-minute walk. For nights out, Ubers and Lyfts are always available.
And of course you can always do what we do - bring our bicycles along!
Here are some options for rental bikes in Boston:
Bluebikes: This is the most popular bike rental program in Boston, offering various pricing and membership options. You can find more information on their official website here.
Urban AdvenTours: They provide a range of bicycle rentals, including eBikes and road bikes, along with bike tours. You can book online through their website here.
Landry’s Bicycles: One of the leading bike rental companies in Boston, offering a wide range of services including bike repair and high-performance road bikes.
Boston's a fairly compact city so no matter which of the neighborhoods you stay in, you'll likely be within 30 minutes walking distance from major attractions and restaurants.
LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS
Four Seasons Hotel Boston is an absolute dream! From complimentary lattes to thoughtful kids’ amenities, every detail is tailored to perfection. The location, luxury service, and family-friendly features make this a standout choice for anyone visiting Boston.
The Liberty Hotel looks out to the Charles River in the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood. The Library’s claim to fame is that it was once a prison that housed incarcerated suffragists, WWII captives, and even Malcolm X. The unique architecture and prison cell remains add an edge to a beautifully designed hotel.
The Envoy Hotel has a modern vibe and tends to skew younger. Located in the innovative Seaport area, there are restaurants and cafes, a movie theatre, a bowling alley, pop-up shops, and a marina to explore. Envoy’s rooftop bar overlooking the city is a definite scene.
If you've read this site, you know we're partial to the Fairmont Hotels. A landmark in Copley Square, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is more of an opulent hotel option. Though it may seem lavish, you’ll feel right at home after being greeted by the staff and hotel’s canine ambassador, Cori. The restaurant OAK Long Bar is also an excellent old-school setting.
They have a variety of rooms and suites to choose from and always offer a number of special offers. If you're a member of their free Gold Club even the better when it comes to pricing and perks.
I/we usually stay at the Fairmont when in Boston - but this trip was different.
MID RANGE ACCOMMODATIONS
You can usually find rooms at the Boston Park Plaza for under $150 a night. Located steps away from the Boston Public Garden, most landmarks are within walking distance. The hotel was recently restored and renovated so everything is very comfortable. The rooms are on the smaller size however.
They do have an on-site restaurant and bar that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. They also have an Irish pub and a Starbucks.
BUDGET ACCOMMODATIONS
The Revolution is a new budget hotel in the trendy South End neighborhood. The rooms are small (bunk beds and communal baths are an option!) but are perfectly designed to accommodate guests. The lobby features really cool decor and street art that celebrates all of Boston’s “firsts.”
Hotels in Boston can be pricey, especially if you visit in the peak summer season. But there’s always the option of renting a VRBO instead. Get that “living like a local” feeling while visiting Boston on a budget at the same time.
On this trip we stayed on a (ready for this?) yacht in a marina. 2 bedrooms, could sleep 5, heat and AC, fully functioning galley with convection oven, salon with TV, both staterooms had their own attached bathrooms, a beautiful aft deck with furniture. We paid just a hair over $400 per night. A decent hotel room for 4 with a kitchen would've cost at least $2000 (if not more) in Boston.
We absolutely loved staying on the yacht and highly recommend it.
The location was great - near the Freedom Trail and walkable to downtown.
VRBO is definitely the way to go in Boston and there are lots of different kinds of accommodations available that fall under that category: apartments, studios, condos. You can even rent a houseboat to stay on
Get Aquainted with Boston
Contact Tours by Foot Boston to arrange free (pay what you wish) guided or self guided walking tours of
Boston or purchase a Hop-on Hop-off Old Town Trolley Tour through Get Your Guide. One or two day tours are offered. We found the hop on hop off trolley tour to be the easiest way to see Boston.
The Freedom Trail
I first walked the Freedom Trail as a teenager (before we had apps) and it was soooo interesting. Now you have a variety of ways to see the Freedom Trail. You can walk it without any kind of tour, although you'll miss the historical significance of what you're seeing; you can do a guided tour with guides in colonial period costumes or you can download the Freedom Trail Boston Guide. The app is “free” to download, but once in you’ll still have to purchase the Freedom Trail guided tour. But at just $6.99 for the full Freedom Trail tour, it’s much less than booking a guided tour.
The trail takes you to 16 of the must-see historical landmarks throughout the city, including the Boston Common, the site of the Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall, the State House, and Bunker Hill. Simply follow the brick markers along the pavement to the different sites, most of which offer free entry (with some notable exceptions, including the Paul Revere House). If you want you can take the official guided tour as it will add a lot of context to what you are seeing. I'd recommend on this being at least a half day activity so you don't have to rush through Trail.
Not to miss on the Freedom Trail:
PAUL REVERE HOUSE
There is an admittance fee to tour the inside of the Revere house:
$17 Adult
$15 Senior/Student
$8 Child (Ages 6-12)
Free Child (Under 6)
Money $aving Tip: Check out ways to save on your tickets here
USS CONSTITUTION & CONSTITUTION MUSEUM
Photo credit: USS Constitution Museum
Believe it or not, "Old Ironsides" as she's called is still an active US Navy vessel! Currently she's not open for tours of the ship as she's undergoing restoration. However, she regularly goes "underway" and here are the best locations from shore to see that:
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The public can see “Old Ironsides” depart and return from the pier at Charlestown Navy Yard. Traditionally, the Ship departs at approximately 10:00 am and returns between 1 pm – 2 pm.
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South Boston’s Castle Island is the location of a 21-gun salute around 11-11:30 am. The public is welcome at this South Boston location where crowds traditionally gather.
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Additionally, the Ship can be seen from points along the Boston Harborwalk.
The museum is free to visit but because donations keep it open and running, the museum suggests the following donations:
The Museum has suggested admission tiers of:
Pay it Forward: $25 per person
Standard: $15 per person
Reduced: Free – $10 per person
Located in the historic Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, the Museum provides an immersive experience that highlights the legacy of “Old Ironsides,” the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat. Through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and a wealth of artifacts, visitors can explore the ship’s storied past, its pivotal role in the War of 1812, and the lives of the sailors who served on USS Constitution.
I found the USS Constitution and its museum to be the most interesting part of the Freedom Trail, especially the museum.
OLD NORTH CHURCH
Photo credit: Flickr
Photo credit: NPS
“One if by land, and two if by sea!” With two lanterns shining from its steeple on April 18, 1775, Old North Church lit the way for the American Revolution.
This is a beautiful old church with 300 years of history behind it - and a few surprises as of late! A mural that had remain hidden under layers and layers of white paint since 1912 was just discovered and restored, as was a crypt beneath Old North Church.
Enjoy our Crypt Combo Package for $10 or only $9 when you book online! The package includes a self-guided tour of the crypt where 1,100 people are laid to rest, our immersive audio guide, and general admission to the new exhibit in the church’s sanctuary. We’re also offering After-Hours Crypt Tours, a special 45-minute guided experience.
Old North Church is still a functioning Episcopal church that holds services Sundays at 11am. All are welcome to the inclusive religious services. Advanced reservations are welcome.
For the kids, the church has a scavenger hunt as well as a fun exhibit on childhood in its North End.
Old North Church is open for tourism Monday – Saturday from 10am – 5pm and on Sunday from 12:30 – 5pm.
Here's a free downloadable app to help you explore Old North Church.
Old North Church offers a variety of admission packages, starting at only $5.
BOSTON MASSACRE SITE
Photo credit: The Freedom Trail
OLD CORNER BOOKSTORE
Constructed in 1718, the Old Corner Bookstore is downtown Boston’s oldest commercial building and was home to the 19th-century publishing giant Ticknor and Fields, producer of many venerable American titles including Thoreau’s Walden, Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter, Longfellow's Midnight Ride of Paul Revere, and the Atlantic Monthly including Ward Howe's Battle Hymn of the Republic.
Boston Commons
Boston Commons is the oldest park in the U.S. and it's totally free to visit. It's along the lines of NY's Central Park but much prettier. It's a great place to have a picnic.
The park includes ballfields, a tot lot and the Frog Pond, which provides skating in winter and a spray pool for children in the summer.
There's also a carousel for the kids to ride. $4 per ride.
Friends of the Garden offer free guided tours of the garden, all you need do is show up for the tour.
Tours convene at the
Ducklings statue. Please plan to arrive 5 minutes prior to your tour.
Tours last about one hour and cover approximately one-half of the Public Garden (from Beacon Street to the bridge). Your tour guide will be wearing a green apron. You may want to bring a hat, sunblock, and water on warm days.
There are also a lot of free festivals and events that happen in the park throughout the year
Money $aving Tips: Free August Adventures is a special program hosted by the Highland Street Foundation that offers free admissions to selected attractions in Boston on Fridays.
Bunker Hill Monuments & Museum
The Bunker Hill Monument and Grounds commemorates the Revolution's first major battle.
On June 17, 1775, New England soldiers faced the British army for the first time in a pitched battle. Popularly known as "The Battle of Bunker Hill," bloody fighting took place throughout a hilly landscape of fenced pastures that were situated across the Charles River from Boston. Though the British forces claimed the field, the casualties inflicted by the Provincial solders from Massachusetts, Connecticut, and
New Hampshire were staggering. Of the some 2,400 British soldiers and Marines engaged, some 1,000 were wounded or killed.
To climb the Monument, enter the Bunker Hill Lodge. Last climb is 30 minutes before closure.
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Only 20 people are allowed in the Monument at a time.
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The Monument may close for climbing due to weather conditions and/or other safety considerations.
Admission is free to both the monument and the park. This is the best view of the Boston skyline, so don’t miss it. It’s at the end of the Freedom Trail.
Standard Monument Hours:
Sunday : Open 10 am to 5 pm
Monday & Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday - Saturday: Open 1 pm to 5 pm
Museum Hours:
Sunday: Open 1 pm to 5 pm
Monday & Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday - Saturday: Open 1 pm to 5 pm
Minuteman National Park
Photo credit: Minuteman Natl. Park
I suggest you start your tour of Minuteman Park with the 27 minute multimedia show, "The Road to Revolution". The show gives you the background of the park and what you'll see there.
Photo credit: Minuteman Natl. Park
Located at the Minute Man Visitor Center, this award winning, multimedia theater program gives an excellent introduction to the historic events of April 19, 1775.
"The Road to Revolution" multimedia presentation shows during their open season of May - October each year. It runs every 30 minutes starting at 9:00 a.m. The last show runs at 4:30 p.m. Reservations are not accepted. The show runs 27 minutes in duration.
This show runs when Minute Man Visitor Center is open. For specific days and times check the Minute Man Visitor Center page.
Minute Man offers a variety of ranger programs to the visiting public. These programs run from Memorial Day weekend in May through the end of October.
Hike the Battle Road Trail.
The Battle Road Trail is a five mile trail connecting historic sites from Meriam’s Corner in Concord to the eastern boundary of the park in Lexington. Much of the trail follows the original remnants of the Battle Road where thousands of Colonial Militia and British Regulars fought a bloody engagement on April 19, 1775.
In some areas the trail leaves the historic road to follow the route of the Minute Men traversing farming fields, wetlands, and forests.
The trail is accessible by several parking areas along Route 2A and Lexington Road. Visit the Maps and Directions page for more parking information and pick up a park map at the Minute Man Visitor Center.
Visit Hartwell Tavern.
Hartwell Tavern is a restored 18th century home located along the Battle Road in Minute Man National Historical Park. The tavern sits on a beautifully restored section of the battlefield and is the heart of our Living History operations at Minute Man. The grounds around Hartwell remain open sunrise to sunset.
If you visit during the operational season, you will have an opportunity to explore the interior of Hartwell Tavern and talk with interpreters dressed in eighteenth century attire. Learn about the experiences of the Hartwell Family on April 19, 1775 or talk about popular drinks consumed in the 18th tavern room!
During the summer and fall National Park Service staff will also conduct musket firing demonstrations outside the tavern.
Park at 112 North Great Road, Lincoln, MA, walk dirt path 1/4 mile north to Tavern.
Next stop in Minuteman Natl. Park, the Meriam House.
Built around 1705, the Meriam House has seen significant change in its 300 year history. From sustainable agriculture to bloody battles, this home has witnessed incredible events. We invite you to come explore the house and learn about the fateful events of April 19, 1775, and the generations of 3 families that once lived here.
Parking is located at 751 Lexington Road, Concord, MA 01742
The Nathan Meriam house is located roughly 700 feet west along the Battle Road Trail.
For the kids, join the Junior Ranger Program.
The park welcomes interest in Minute Man National Historical Park’s Junior Ranger Program. It is a seasonal program run in the park annually from May 7 to October 31st.
The Junior Ranger program at Minute Man was designed as an in-person experience for Junior Rangers and their families to complete onsite. As a result, booklets are only available at the park; they are unable to mail them, so be sure to complete the activities before you leave the park to be eligible for a badge.
Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet to guide your exploration of the park at Minute Man Visitor Center in Lexington or North Bridge Visitor Center in Concord. Complete the activities as you visit different sites in the park. Before you leave, show your work to a park ranger at either visitor center to get your Junior Ranger badge!
Admission to the park and everything in it is free.
Boston Childrens Museum
The Boston Children's Museum is a great place to take the kids. Heck, even I enjoyed it as an adult.
You can take a virtual tour of the museum here.
The Museum is open Wednesday-Monday, closed Tuesdays. Advance tickets/reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, holidays, school vacation weeks, and TJX $1 Sunday Afternoons.
On the first Saturday of each month, the Museum opens at 10:00. Hours are subject to change, please check calendar on ticket purchase pages.
If you wish to redeem Museum passes, Go City passes, or to pay in cash, please call 617- 426-6500 option 0
or e-mail Orders@BostonChildrensMuseum.org to make a reservation.
Regular admission for adults or children is $24. There is no admission fee for infants under 1 year old.
Money $aving Tips: $1 admission to the Boston Children’s Museum every Friday night from 5-9 pm and half price admission during the last hour of the day every other day of the week.
*This offer was on pause during the government shut down so call first to see if the offer has resumed.
617- 426-6500 option 0.
Pay your Museum admission, get your ticket and take it to City Tap Kitchen & Craft and have brunch. Show your BCM admission ticket receipt and get a free appetizer with the purchase of 2 entrees.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
At the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, you can be a part of the famous event that forever changed the course of American history through a multi-sensory experience that includes live actors, interactive exhibits, and full-scale replica 18th-century sailing vessels!
Storm Aboard the 18th Century sailing vessels Brig Beaver and Eleanor!
Experience life at sea aboard an 18th-century sailing vessel as you join Son of Liberty and take part in the “Destruction of the Tea”! Throw tea into the very same body of water where the Boston Tea Party took place over 250 years ago. Yep, you'll really throw tea into the harbor!
(LMAO! Jay just piped up we should gather up all those D.C. swamp scum bottomfeeder politicians and throw them in the harbor!)
Griffin's Wharf is located on the same body of water where the Boston tea Party occurred over two centuries ago. Explore the open air deck and full-scale replica 18th century sailing vessels, as well as the other cargoes that accompanied the fated tea to America. Meet the Sons and Daughters of Liberty and learn about the Boston Tea Party of 1773!
Protected and preserved for more than two centuries, the Robinson Tea Chest is the only known surviving tea chest from the Boston Tea Party of 1773. Experience the compelling history of this significant artifact from its humble beginnings in China through the Boston Tea Party and being handed down through the generations. The Robinson Tea Chest is proudly displayed at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum from the permanent collections of Historic Tours of America, Inc.
Their multi-sensory film, “Let It Begin Here®”, dramatically depicts the events of April 19, 1775, including Paul Revere’s famous “Midnight Ride” and the beginning of the American Revolution.
Barely 16 months after the tea was destroyed in Boston Harbor, militiamen rallied on Lexington Green as the “shot heard ‘round the world” was fired. The theater’s panoramic movie screen places you in the middle of the battle action as you see, hear, and feel the sensations of horses galloping, soldiers marching and muskets firing through the countryside. Join the ranks of the militiamen as they stand against the British Regulars.
[Note: The film can be loud and intense for some. Museum tour Hosts will remain present should guests require assistance or exit.]
Admission varies by day so check here for what admission would cost and to purchase tickets.
General admission to the ships and museum is between $35 and $40.
Tour Hours: Monday - Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Discounted Parking Located at:
The museum is located at 306 Congress St.
Puttshack
During the day Puttshack serves as a unique mini golf course for kids. Puttshack is just where you want to take your budding golfers for a fun time of colorful time on nine-hole mini golf courses.
What's unique about Puttshack is that the golf balls keep score for you! They’re equipped with Trackaball Technology. Translation: they keep track of every stroke, hazard, and point scored so no more arguing over who did what.
However, this location becomes 21+ after 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays, with a final tee time of 8pm and that's all Jay needed to hear. We ended up at Puttshack after dinner. And I'm gonna get me some of those Trackaball Technology golf balls because for the first time ever I beat Jay at golf. Any kind of golf. (Hmmm!)
There are 4 different courses you can play.
Puttshack has an onsite restaurant as well and yes, serves alcohol for adults.
You can view pricing here.
Sunday: 11am - 10 pm
Monday - Thursday: 11 am - 11pm
Friday & Saturday: 11 am - 1 am
Age Policy: You must be 21+ to enter this location after 9pm on Friday & Saturday (Last tee time 8pm). A valid physical form of identification is required for entry.
Boston Public Garden
Founded in 1837, adjacent to Boston Common, Boston Public Garden the country's first public botanical garden, the Boston Public Garden. In true Victorian-era fashion, the Garden features ornate fencing, meticulously groomed flower beds highlighting 80 species of plants, an 1860s bridge over the lagoon that's perfect for your next Instagrammable moment, tree-lined pathways with benches, and public art, including the Duckling Sculpture, a statue of George Washington, the Ether fountain, and more.
For some good old-fashioned fun, take the kids for a spin in a swan boat. For less than $5 per person, you’ll spend 15 minutes cruising around a small lagoon in Boston Public Garden. The season runs mid-April through early September. The Swan Boats were created and have been operated for over 100 years by the Paget family.
Feel free to pack a picnic lunch to take with you. We did and there are several beautiful spots in the garden in which to eat and relax with a good book. Very relaxing!
Boston Haymarket
Photo credit: Paul Marotta
The Haymarket is one of our country’s oldest open-air markets. It’s the perfect spot to stop by for fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and flowers of all kinds. It's also a station on the MBTA Green and Orange lines.
There are more than 40 independent vendors at Haymarket offering some of the best deals in the city on fresh fruit and vegetables, chicken and seafood, and even eggs and spices. These stands are all side-by-side along Blackstone Street. Many people claim that if you were to buy the exact items in a traditional grocery store that you’d pay three to four times the price. And if you go late in the day on a Saturday, it’s common that you can score deals even better than that.
Great place to go but be sure to read HAYMARKET TIPS before going!
Aside from Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, Haymarket is open on Fridays and Saturdays year-round. Most of the grocers within the Blackstone building are also open during the week. Haymarket has no official hours, so most know it as being open from dawn to dusk, typically from around 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., though the timeframe can be later during the longer summer months.
Admission is free. 100 Hanover St, Boston
By the way...The name “Haymarket” comes from the fact that in its early years, many of the merchants were farmers selling hay out of wagons, not only to feed horses but also to stuff mattresses. Over time, the marketplace mainly sold produce, but the name has remained to this day. The market is over 300 years old.
New England Aquarium of Boston
There are thousands of aquatic animals to visit at the Aquarium—from the African penguins to Myrtle the green sea turtle and the California sea lions. But kids are drawn to the spectacular centerpiece of this excellent aquarium: The colossal, 200,000-gallon salt-water replica of a Caribbean coral reef. Three stories tall, the tank is alive with moray eels, stingrays, gigantic sea turtles and sharks to watch swim around all day. On a smaller scale, a touch tank exhibit lets children dip their hands into the cold water of a tidal basin and get up close and personal with starfish, sea urchins and hermit crabs.
1 Central Wharf, Boston.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Daily, 9:00 a.m. until an hour before the Aquarium closes.
Be sure to read their Discounts & Offers page before purchasing admission tickets.
You can see ticket prices here.
Beacon Hill
This is one of Boston’s most picturesque and historic neighborhoods, once home to the likes of John Adams (Founding Father and second US President) and John Hancock (President of the Second Continental Congress and first governor of Massachusetts). Its steep, winding streets are lined with Victorian brick row houses and old-fashioned lanterns, making for a charming afternoon stroll. The Massachusetts Statehouse is also here, which was completed in 1798 and is a National Historic Landmark. There are a few interesting museums in the neighborhood as well. The Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest libraries in the country where you’ll find more than half a million books along with other events, concerts, and lectures.
The Museum of African American History is also in this part of the city. This museum showcases the stories of notable African Americans from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Personally, I love Beacon Hill with its cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses, and flower-filled window boxes. It's rather like walking in a picture postcard.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Beacon Hill, visit the Nichols House Museum or take a complimentary walking tour (provided by the National Park Service) down The Black Heritage Trail, which chronicles the lives of African Americans who lived in Beacon Hill during the 19th century.
Admission to explore Beacon Hill is free. The Museums charge admission but if you got your museum pass from the library, they'll be free too.
The Mapparium
From Beacon Hill hop the line 39 bus for a 2 mile ride to The Mapparium.
Mapparium is one of those quirky attractions.
Gain a new perspective on world geography at the Mapparium. Situated inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this hidden gem is a 3-story stained-glass globe that offers a 3-dimensional view of the world in 1935. An audiovisual show and an exhibition of artifacts and documents complete the experience.
The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others.
But here's what's so quirky about it. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.
$6 for adults; free for youths 17 and younger
Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 210 Massachusetts Ave., Boston
View Boston
View Boston is a 360° taste of the city, offering breathtaking views atop one of the tallest buildings in New England, the Prudential Building.
To get to the Prudential Building you can take the green line train and it will take you right under the Prudential Center, which is inside a large shopping mall.
Ascend to the top of the Prudential Tower’s 52nd floor to experience breathtaking indoor panoramic views of the city, no matter where you stand. The 52nd floor features Virtual Viewfinders, allowing you to learn more about Boston’s diverse neighborhoods and popular landmarks and attractions.
On View Boston’s 51st floor where you will find many Boston skyline photo opportunities and local art installations as you roam the 360° open-air roof deck. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail at Stratus rooftop bar.
View Boston’s 270-degree immersive theater showcases a street-level exploration of various neighborhoods and a behind-the-scenes perspective of some of Boston’s most beloved attractions, including Fenway Park!
Boston 365 is a remarkable 3D model of the city of Boston that showcases the exciting celebrations, spirits, and seasons that bring Boston to life throughout the year.
If you’re seeking an elevated dining experience above the city, The Beacon Bistro brings together thoughtfully crafted cuisine, seasonal cocktails, and unforgettable views of Boston. Located within View Boston at the Prudential Center, this refined bistro invites guests to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the city from a higher perspective, before or after exploring the observation deck.
There are several different ticket packages here.
Money $aving Tip: You should get up pop up window with a 1 time savings offer. Click the button and you'll automatically get $5 off a general admission ticket.
Franklin Park Zoo
About 3 miles from Boston View is the Franklin Park Zoo. 1 Franklin Park Rd. Boston.
This is a nice little zoo to take the kids to, that you can cover touring in 2-3 hours.
Tickets can be purchased online and the zoo works on a timed entry. Ticket prices vary and they have a number of special offers for discounts. If you have a CityPass, admission to the zoo is covered under that if you chose the zoo as one of your attractions. It also covers admission to the Stone Zoo.
Adult (13-64) $15.95-$16.95
Senior (65+) $14.35-$15.25
Child (2-12) $12.75-$13.55
Under 2 Free
The Franklin Zoo website also has an interactive Kids Corner where they can learn about different animals through various activities.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace & Quincy Market
Faneuil Hall is one of the most visited sites in the entire country. The hall itself has been a meeting place in the city since the 1740s, and many speeches were given here about American independence before the Revolutionary War. The Faneuil Marketplace (which is comprised of 4 historic buildings, including Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market) is a popular place for locals to hang out, shop, and eat. There are many events held here throughout the year that are open to the public and street performers are always present.
Museum of Science
This is such a cool place! The Museum of Science has many exhibitions that will fascinate children and adults. The Discovery Center is for children up to eight years along with their accompanying adult to participate in many interactive, fun activities where they discover science through play. There is a rare Triceratops skeleton in the museum as well as a theater of electricity with the world’s largest Van de Graaff generator and indoor lightning storms. The museum has a planetarium and IMAX theater. There are over 100 animals to see, many of which were rescued from dangerous situations. Exhibitions include the Current Science and Technology Center with live presentations of cutting edge technology, a to-scale solar system with only the Sun, Mercury and Venus on the museum grounds, and the other planets somewhere in the city. The Duck Tours also leave from the museum.
Duck Tours
The Duck Tour of Boston is conducted on a WWII amphibious landing vehicle. It is a completely different way to see the city and harbor. After a tour of the city on the streets, it cruises right into the water at the harbor on the Charles River for a harbor cruise and a view of the harbor islands. The tour guides give impersonations of famous Bostonians, and the whole experience is great entertainment. Visitors see all the major Boston landmarks and learn interesting and fun facts about Boston.
MUSEUM HOURS
Exhibit Halls
Open daily, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Planetarium and Mugar Omni Theaters
Sunday - Thursday open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday and Saturday Nights, open until 10:00 pm (last show)
Historic North End
The historic North End is Boston's "Little Italy". You hear just as much Italian here as you do the Boston accent. In the mornings, little Italian grandmas can be seen shopping at the markets while the grandpas sit and have their morning espresso. It’s almost like being in Italy. The best gelato outside of Italy can be found here too.
If you're interested, we took a foodie tour through the "Little Italy" North End through Get Your Guide. $75 per person.
We really enjoyed it. Taste clam chowder, arancini, brick oven pizza, cannoli, and more. The tour lasts 2-3 hours depending on which tour version you choose to take.
Take A Day Trip To Salem
We scheduled a day trip to Salem into our own itinerary and it was nice to escape the fast paced city for a day.
The town is most famous for the Salem Witch Trials of the late 1600s and there are plenty of museums around town dedicated to sharing this history, like the Salem Witch Museum.
You can reach the town in about an hour via train or, during the warmer months, a scenic ferry ride along the coast. There are also several walking tours available, covering everything from colonial history to witches to food.
If witchcraft isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities as well. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is free to visit and situated on the waterfront. It’s spread across nine acres and highlights the maritime history of the area. For something more modern, check out the Punto Urban Art Museum, an open-air museum with seventy-five murals in a three-block area. The murals are free to visit, though donations are appreciated.
Boston's Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is a hoot! We had so much fun going through it and it's a great rainy day activity if the weather isn't cooperating! Or if you just want to try something different.
(We loved trying to figure out the 3D puzzles in the Brain Room.)
Admission prices vary by date and time and there are options to choose from here.
Boston being as uber expensive as it is, you want to follow as many tips in my post $ave On Dining as possible to keep your dining costs in check.
To give you a general idea of what food will cost you in Boston, per meal per person:
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Sit-down restaurants – $25-50 USD
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Casual take-out places – $6-15 USD
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Fast food (think McDonald’s) – $12 USD
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Beer – $8-10 USD
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Glass of wine – $11-13 USD
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Cocktails – $12-15 USD
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Cappuccino/latte- $5.50 USD
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Bottled water – $2.50 USD
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Groceries for a week – $70 USD
Our Favorite Boston Restaurants
2 locations
We love their breakfast/brunch that they serve all day and their Build Your Own Sandwiches for lunch.
They have a great menu with lots of choices and prices are mid range for Boston.
It's also a great place to pick up picnic fare.
BROOKLINE
335 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02446
Sunday-Thursday 8am-8pm
Friday & Saturday 8am-9pm
NATICK
1298 Worcester Street, Natick, MA 01760
Monday & Tuesday 8:00am-3pm
Wednesday-Saturday 8:00am-7pm
Sunday 8:00am-6pm
Great neighborhood bistro with a fun atmosphere and really good food. We especially like their Retro Room.
They serve brunch food, Lite food, burritos, sandwiches. and steaks.
Open daily 11 am to 2 pm.
Row 34 is a working man's oyster bar. We serve great oysters and pour unique beer in one of Boston's best neighborhoods, Fort Point.
The name Row 34 is a nod to the 34th row of oysters grown in Duxbury Bay on the South Shore of Massachusetts. True to their namesake, their menu is all about responsibly sourced seafood from local waters. Their seafood is caught fresh daily.
383 Congress Street, Boston $$$
Summer Shack is another fresh seafood joint.
149 Alewife Brook Pkwy, Cambridge, MA
50 Dalton St, Boston
We love their Seafood Feast - a traditional New England-style clambake.
They have an extensive menu and full bar. They also have a raw oyster bar and Today's Catch specials.
Sun & Mon 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Tue & Wed 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thu & Fri 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Sat 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
For really good Italian food in the North End, go to Carmelina's. 307 Hanover St. Boston.
Carmelina’s opened in 2012 and is located on Hanover Street in the heart of Boston's famous Little Italy (a.k.a The North End). Since then, Chef DiPaola has transformed old family recipes from his family’s best dishes, into modern Italian cuisine with equal parts fresh pasta and seafood.
Carmelina’s interior is designed as an open kitchen, reflecting a mother-approved cooking space. Family photos decorate the walls, adding a touch of home. The small space offers an intimate dining experience and diners can watch their dishes come together from beginning to end. During the summer months retractable front walls allow for open-air dining.
Yes, you'll need dinner reservations. However, Carmelina's is a small restaurant and therefore, they have the following policy:
"Tables are strictly booked in 1 hr 30 minute increments. To avoid reservation conflicts we kindly ask that when your meal is finished, please let us clear the table for the following guests. There are a number of beautiful cafes in the area to continue the night and great conversation."
Note that they do not serve coffee or dessert.
Open Daily 11:30am -10:00 pm $$
There are 3 Boston locations - Assembly Row, State Street or Franklin Street.
Their authentic pita gyros ($9.50-$12.50) come in original pork, chicken, meatballs, etc.
Each gyro is loaded with meat off-the-spit, tzatziki sauce, and veggies.
The restaurant's food is consistently praised as exceptional, with the pork gyro and spanakopita being particular standouts.
Despite occasional lines, the excellent service and fresh, delicious food make Zo Greek Cuisine a must-visit destination. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the owner has shown willingness to go above and beyond for customers.
Kids Eat Free Restaurants in Boston
By Day
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Monday – Barrett’s Alehouse (West Bridgewater, Fall River, Bridgewater): Free kids’ meal with adult entrée $14+; also get a $5 game card with kids’ meal.
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Tuesday – Owen O’Leary’s (Southborough, Westborough): Two free kids’ meals with purchase of each adult entrée, 4–8 p.m.
Uno Pizzeria & Grill (multiple locations): Free kids’ meal with adult entrée purchase on Tuesdays for UNO Extras members
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Wednesday – Halfway Cafe (Dedham, Watertown): Free kids’ meal (12 & under) with adult entrée $15.99+
Smashburger (multiple locations): Free kids’ meal with adult entrée purchase
IKEA Stoughton: Two free kids’ entrees with adult entrée purchase (must be IKEA Family member)
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Thursday – Moe’s Southwest Grill (multiple locations): Free kids’ meal (12 & under) with adult entrée $6+ on Sundays
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Friday – Barrett’s Alehouse continues its weekday free kids’ meal program
Other Notable Spots
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Evviva Trattoria (Maynard, Marlborough, Stoneham, Westford, Wrentham, Quincy, Hanover): Kids’ meals $6 with adult entrée purchase on Tuesdays
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La Qchara (Melrose, Beverly): Free kids’ meal with adult entrée purchase every Wednesday.
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Samba Steak & Sushi (Framingham): Free kids’ lunch/dinner plus cotton candy on Sundays during “Family Sundays”
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The Kirkland Tap & Trotter (Somerville): Free kids’ menu items with adult entrée purchase Sunday–Thursday 5:30–6:30 p.m
As you've seen, Boston has plenty of free and low cost attractions for the budget traveler so you don't have to bust the bank visiting there.