What to do in Boston, MA

Activities, attractions and tours

Boston
Boston
Boston
Boston
Boston

Places to Visit in Boston

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Boston, Massachusetts while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Boston attractions from NZ$9, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Boston tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 256 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Boston. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. Fenway Park

Fenway Park exudes sporting history and heritage. The home of the legendary Boston Red Sox is one of the oldest ballparks in America. If your visit coincides with a home fixture, treat yourself to a ticket and experience the heady atmosphere and excitement of this uniquely American passion.
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Aerial image of Fenway Park

2. Boston Common

Boston Common has a long, fascinating and often bloody history. This former cow pasture served as a British encampment during the American War of Independence, became a recruitment point during the Civil War, and was the site of public hangings until 1817. Since then it has been the rallying point for anti-slavery meetings and anti-war protests. Today it’s a favourite place for Bostonians to chill out and indulge in a little gentle exercise, while visitors flock here to start walking the Freedom Trail.
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Boston Common which includes landscape views, a skyscraper and a park

3. Harvard University

Harvard University, founded in 1636, is the oldest higher education institution in the USA and probably the best-known and most prestigious of the elite “Ivy League” universities. Its leafy campus occupies a 154-hectare site on the outskirts of Boston, which makes for a fascinating half-day excursion away from the bustle of “downtown”.
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Harvard University which includes heritage architecture

4. New England Aquarium

The jutting angles and glittering glass panels of the New England Aquarium exterior look almost like shards of ice cracking in Boston Harbor. Within its modern walls, get acquainted with the thousands of marine animals that call this aquarium home.
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New England Aquarium which includes marine life and interior views

5. Copley Square

Copley Square is one of the jewels of the upmarket Back Bay area of downtown Boston. Locals come here to take a break from work, meet friends by the elegant fountain or shop at the bi-weekly farmers’ market, while visitors are drawn by its architecturally important buildings and harmonious ambience.
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Copley Square showing a city, heritage architecture and flowers

Recommended things to do in Boston

Number of things to do
256
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Ultimate Salem Witch Trials Trip Planner Your Complete Guide: NZ$9
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Boston

Discover the most popular places to visit in Boston

Fenway Park which includes night scenes and a sporting event as well as a large group of people

Fenway Park

The iconic home of the Boston Red Sox is on the must-see list of every red-blooded baseball fan.

Fenway Park
Boston Common which includes landscape views, a skyscraper and a park

Boston Common

Trace the history of Boston and take a break from the city heat in the USA’s oldest public park.

Boston Common
TD Garden

TD Garden

Catch an event at TD Garden during your trip to Boston. Attend a sporting event or visit the notable monuments in this vibrant area.

TD Garden
Harvard University which includes heritage architecture and a city

Harvard University

You don’t have to be a history student to appreciate the unique heritage of this world-renowned academic institution.

Harvard University
New England Aquarium

New England Aquarium

From sea lions to sharks, this modern aquarium on Boston’s waterfront brings the ocean world to your fingertips.

New England Aquarium
Copley Square

Copley Square

Historic buildings, great shopping and bags of local colour – what’s not to love about Copley Square?

Copley Square
Gillette Stadium

Gillette Stadium

Catch an event at Gillette Stadium during your trip to Foxboro. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theatre scene.

Gillette Stadium
Boston Convention and Exhibition Center

Boston Convention and Exhibition Center

During your trip, find out what's happening in Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, a top convention centre in Boston. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.

Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
Harvard Square

Harvard Square

With a visit to Harvard Square, a favourite shopping spot in Cambridge, you can browse for souvenirs. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.

Harvard Square

Explore areas of Boston

Downtown Boston showing a city and night scenes as well as a small group of people

Downtown Boston

4.5/5(17 area reviews)

The heart of America’s revolutionary history lies in the center of this city. Uncover the story of the nation and enjoy excellent arts and dining venues.

Downtown Boston
Seaport District featuring a city, a high-rise building and a river or creek

Seaport District

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

Join excited crowds enjoying harbor-side views, Revolutionary War-era landmarks, as well as superb restaurants and museums along this thriving waterfront.

Seaport District
Back Bay showing heritage architecture, a city and street scenes

Back Bay

4.5/5(37 area reviews)

Parisian boulevards and elegant brownstones conjure a truly romantic atmosphere, perfect for strolling and window shopping.

Back Bay
Beacon Hill which includes landscape views

Beacon Hill

5/5(1 area review)

Take a walk through the charming streets, historic buildings and small-town atmosphere of Boston’s oldest and wealthiest suburbs.

Beacon Hill
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North End

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

The ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are just a few popular features of the neighbourhood. Make a stop by New England Aquarium or Old North Church while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Aquarium to get around town.

North End
Default Image

Dorchester

3/5(4 area reviews)

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Dorchester. If sightseeing is on the list, John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Fields Corner Station or Four Corners/Geneva Ave Station to see more of the area.

Dorchester

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Boston

Braintree

Braintree

Photo by Corinne Mason

Brockton

Watertown

Watertown

Photo by Fun Travelog

Wellesley

Photo by Dawn Madden

Wenham

Cambridge which includes street scenes and a city

Cambridge

Photo by Nicole Smelson

Lynn

Photo by Ana Lei

Lynnfield

Frequently asked questions

Is Boston worth visiting?
With a mix of dining and culture, there are plenty of things to do in Boston. While you're here, check out New England Aquarium, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Boston?
Once you've checked off top attractions like New England Aquarium and Newbury Street, spend the rest of your day discovering Boston's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Boston?
The top tourist attraction in Boston is New England Aquarium, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Boston?
You can easily tick off top attractions like New England Aquarium, Newbury Street and Boston Museum of Fine Arts with a three-day getaway in Boston. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to Cambridge.
Is Boston a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Boston is a good place to visit on foot. Wander between New England Aquarium and Newbury Street. Then take a stroll through South Boston, located 3 kilometres from the centre, and D Street - West Broadway, which is about 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Boston with kids?
If you're looking for activities and attractions for all the family, take a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Boston with kids.

What to do in Boston for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Boston, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Samuel Adams Brewery or Harpoon Brewery.
Are there free things to do in Boston?
In Boston, Newbury Street is a must-see spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to explore the best free things to do in Boston.

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