10 TOP Things to Do in Eastern Massachusetts August 2026

A historic church with a large central tower and multiple spires, surrounded by modern buildings and a public square with people and greenery.

A pathway in a park with a sign indicating it is the Public Garden, founded in 1837.

An ornate courtyard with a central mosaic floor, surrounded by lush greenery and classical architecture.

An ornate church interior with stained glass windows, wooden pews, and a high vaulted ceiling.

A grand library with high ceilings, arched windows, and rows of tables and chairs.

Places to Visit in Eastern Massachusetts

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Eastern Massachusetts, United States of America 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 Eastern Massachusetts attractions from NZ$21, 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 Eastern Massachusetts tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 12 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 Eastern Massachusetts. 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.

Activities

Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester

NZ$83

per adult

98% of travellers recommend

Gloucester: Scenic Cape Ann & Rockport Self-Driving Tour

Cape Ann Harbor: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

NZ$29

per traveller

100% of travellers recommend

Massachusetts Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: 10+ Tours

NZ$86

per adult

Cape Ann Self-Guided Driving Tour in Gloucester and Rockport

NZ$29

per traveller

80% of travellers recommend

Massachusetts Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tours Bundle

Massachusetts: Smartphone-Based Audio Tour Bundle

NZ$86

per traveller

Top Left: Hammond Castle
Top Right: Witch House
Bottom Left: Witch Museum
Bottom Right: Hammond Castle Arches

Small Group Day Trip to Salem and Hammond Castle from Boston

NZ$389

per adult

Private Day Trip to Salem and Hammond Castle from Boston

NZ$1,655

per adult

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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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A cityscape with a prominent stadium, a busy intersection, and a skyline with high-rise buildings.

2. 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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A classical building with columns and a blue door, surrounded by trees and people walking.

3. 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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A park with manicured hedges, flowering plants, and a city skyline in the background.

4. 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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A historic church with a pointed roof and a large tower, surrounded by modern buildings and a well-maintained park with flowers and trees.

5. Boston Harbor

Ever since Boston Harbor was discovered by John Smith of “Pocahontas” fame, it has been at the forefront of this proud city’s identity. A major and somewhat dirty port for centuries, Boston’s harbor had a massive clean-up in the late 20th century. Now you can enjoy its substance and style.

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A waterfront scene with a boat docked at a pier, a city skyline in the background, and a red and white ferry on the right.

6. 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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A modern building with large windows displaying an underwater aquarium.

Recommended things to do in Eastern Massachusetts

Number of things to do	12
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Cape Ann Self Guided Driving Tour Audio/GPS Gloucester, Rockport: NZ$21
Top 5 things to do	Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester Whale Watching Trips to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. Guaranteed sighti... Cape Ann Harbour: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Massachusetts Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: 10+ Tours Cape Ann Self-Guided Driving Tour in Gloucester and Rockport
Half-day tours	Cape Ann Self-Guided Driving Tour in Gloucester and Rockport Evening Sunset Island Kayak Tour North of Boston Island Lighthouse Kayak Tour
With kids	Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester Whale Watching Trips to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. Guaranteed sighti... Evening Sunset Island Kayak Tour North of Boston Island Lighthouse Kayak Tour Small Group Day Trip to Salem and Hammond Castle from Boston

What to do in Eastern Massachusetts

Stay near popular Eastern Massachusetts attractions

Fenway Park

9.2/10 (11,009 reviews)

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

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