Boston is the capital of Massachusetts Commonwealth in the United States of America. It is one of the most historically significant city in the USA. Majority of the best places to visit in Boston are concerning the history of American Freedom Revolution. It is one of the oldest cities in the country. It was founded by Puritan Settlers who hailed from Boston in England. They named the new city after their city of origin. You will come across a few puritan buildings and churches among Boston tourist attractions.
The city has played a major role in the American Revolution movement. You can embark on the Freedom Trail which includes 16 Boston attractions concerning the revolution movement. It was the site of many milestone events such as the Boston Tea Party, Battle of Bunker Hill, Boston Massacre and Siege of Boston. There are several museums which interactively tell the story of these events. They are among the most fun historical things to do in Boston, MA. You can also visit houses, meeting places and graves of several prominent historical figures who hailed from the city during Boston sightseeing.
Alongside museums and historical buildings, there are quite a few fun places to go in Boston. The city is a melting-pot of culture and has an engaging scene in arts, music, comedy and sports. Some of the best things to see in Boston are the cultural venues including art galleries, sports stadiums, concert halls and so on. The history of American literature is also deeply connected with this city. The Old Corner Bookstore, dubbed cradle of American literature, is one of the best places to see in Boston to experience the literary side of the city’s culture.
The city has lush parks with several recreational facilities for outdoor activities in Boston. The lakes and coast of Boston offer great space for boating, kayaking and cruises. You can also explore the ocean with a whale watching cruise if you are feeling a little more adventurous.
The city is also home to some of the most well known educational institutions in the world including Harvard, MIT, and Berklee. These universities have their own museums, collections, historical buildings and a few other cool things to do in Boston.
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The Top 30 Tourist Places to Visit in Boston in 3 Days (Trip Itinerary)
Day 1
1. Boston Common
This is the oldest and still the largest park in the city. It was established in 1634 by Puritan Colonists. The park offers many outdoor activities in Boston and is also home to few iconic monuments. You will need 20 to 30 minutes for this park.
2. Massachusetts State House
This iconic architectural wonder was built in 1798 and was designed by Charles Mulfinch. You can take a guided tour of this building. It will take 20 to 30 minutes from Boston sightseeing to explore this building.
3. Granary Burial Ground
This cemetery is one of 16 Freedom Trail sites in the city. It is included among Boston tourist attractions for being the final resting place of major historical figures including John Hancock, Paul Revere, Samuel Adams and a few more. You won’t need more than 10 to 15 minutes at this cemetery.
4. King’s Chapel and Burial Ground
This chapel and its adjacent burial ground is also one of 16 Freedom Trail sites. This was the very first cemetery of the city and is the final resting place of Mary Chilton, John Cotton, Hezekiah Usher, Joseph Tapping and so on. You will need 10 minutes from Boston travel for this place.
5. First Public School
This was the very first public school in America. It was attended by some of the most noteworthy historical figures including Benjamin Franklin, Samuel Adams, Robert Paine, John Hancock and many more. It is one of the most historically significant Boston attractions. You will need 20 to 30 minutes for this building.
6. Old South Meeting House
This meeting house was the site where the well-known Boston Tea Party was planned. It is also one of the places to see in Boston included in the Freedom Trail. You wouldn’t need more than a few minutes at this historical site.
7. Old State House Museum
This building has been the state house of the region for 300 years. The museum traces major events of the American Revolution through activities and costumed guides. It is one of the most engaging historical things to do in Boston, MA. You would need about half an hour to tour this museum.
8. Boston Massacre Site
On 5th March, 1770 British soldiers massacred civilians on this site. This incident had great influence on the American Freedom movement. It is one of the places on the Freedom trail that is must see in Boston. You will need a couple of minutes for this place during Boston travel.
9. Faneuil Hall Marketplace
The Quincy Market is housed in a 19th century Greek Revival architecture building. Adjacent to this market is a hall built in 1742, which has been the venue of several historical meetings and speeches. It is one of the most popular Boston points of interest for both tourists and locals. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to cover these two venues.
10. New England Holocaust Memorial
This memorial monument is dedicated to the victims of the Holocasut. It was built by a Holocaust survivor who came was rescued by American troops and came to USA. It is one of the best things to see in Boston and has a deep moving impact on those who visit here. You will need about half an hour to experience this memorial.
11. Paul Revere House
This house belonged to Paul Revere, a prominent figure of the American Revolution movement. This house talks about his life and his contribution to the revolution and its aftermath. You will need about half an hour for this house museum when you visit Boston.
12. Old North Church
Also known as Christ Church, this is the oldest church in the city. It was built in 1723 and is still a functioning church of Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts. It is one of the best places to visit in Boston. You will need 15 to 20 minutes to explore this church.
13. Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
This was the second cemetery in the city and is also a part of the Freedom Trail. This cemetery is also the final resting place for several important people from American history. You will need a couple of minutes for this cemetery.
14. Bunker Hill Monument
This monument is dedicated to the battle of the Bunker Hill, which was the first large scale battle for the American Revolution. The monument and the museum are among the best things to see in Boston to learn about the revolution movement. You will need 20 to 30 minutes for these two places.
15. USS Constitution Museum and Ship
This war ship was launched in 1797 and is famous for its role in the 1812 battle against a British fleet. The ship and the museum are among top places to go in Boston to learn about naval warfare. You will need 30 to 45 minutes for these two attractions.
16. North End Neighbourhood
This neighbourhood has several historical buildings, quaint restaurants and shopping venues. It is among the most fun places to go in Boston. You can easily spend 30 to 45 minutes exploring the area.
I suggest you should book a private tour of North End Neighborhood.
17. New England Aquarium
This aquarium houses a variety of aquatic animals including turtles, stingrays, sharks, tropical fishes, eels, tarpons and more. The circular tank of the aquarium replicates a Caribbean coral reef. It is one of the most fun activities to do in Boston, MA. You can easily spend an hour or so at this place.
Here you can book your tickets of New England Aquarium in advance
Day 2
1. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
These ships and museum recount the famous Boston Tea Party incident. The ships feature an interactive exhibit. It is among must do things in Boston and is quite a memorable experience. You will need about an hour for this experience.
I suggest you should book a ticket of Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.
2. Boston Public Garden
This park is part of the Emerald Necklace of Boston and is place to visit for some leisure time. The park is open for several outdoor activities in Boston and you can easily spend a few minutes here.
If you want that somebody will take beautiful pictures of you at Boston Public Garden, I suggest you can book your Photoshoot in Boston Public Garden.
3. Gibson House Museum
This house museum recreates life of the 19th century in the city. It is one of the most interesting Boston tourist attractions. You will need about half an hour to explore it.
4. Boston Trinity Church
This church was established in 1733 and is considered an architectural masterpiece. It is one of the best things to see in Boston owing to its romanesque architectural facade and dainty interiors. You will need about half an hour to tour this church.
5. Boston Public Library
This is the second oldest and second largest library in the USA. The library has a collection of 23 million items. You will need 20 to 30 minutes from Boston sightseeing to tour this place.
6. Skywalk Observatory
The 50th floor of this building offers the finest panoramic view of the city. It among the best places to visit in Boston to get great pictures with the city and you can visit here multiple times to enjoy the sunrise, the sunset and the night view. You would need 20 to 30 minutes here.
7. Fenway Park
This stadium is home to the iconic Res Sax, baseball team hailing from Boston. The stadium also contains a museum focusing on the history of the stadium and that of the Red Sax. It is one of the most visited Boston attractions. You would need about an hour to tour this stadium.
I suggest you should book a guided tour of Historic Fenway Park.
Day 3
1. Isabella Steward Gardner Museum
Also known as ISGM, this museum holds an impressive collection of artworks originating from Europe, Asia and Americas. The museum is housed in a beautiful 15th century Venetian palace. The collection as well as the palace are among top things to see in Boston. You will need 2 hours to tour this museum.
2. Museum of Fine Arts
The museum holds one of the finest collection of art and design works in the world. It is one of the best places to go in Boston to explore the world within one place. The collection features photographs, paintings, sculptures, installations, textile, jewelry, musical instruments and more. You will need 2 to 3 hours to tour this museum.
3. Mary Baker Eddy Library
The library, its museum and its archives are dedicated to the life and work of Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Church of Christian Science. The library is also famous for the magnificent glass sculpture of world map created in 1935. It is a must see in Boston travel. You would need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this place.
4. Museum of African American History
This museum speaks about African American residents of New England from the colonial period till the 19th century. You will need an hour to tour this museum when you visit Boston.
5. Otis House
This house used to be the residence of Harrison Gray Otis, the 3rd mayor of Boston. The house gives a peek into his life and political career. The house is complete with federal style decor and furniture. It is one of the most wonderful places to see in Boston. You will need an hour to tour this house museum.
6. Museum of Science
This museum, as the name suggests, is dedicated to the world of science and technology. The museum has several interactive exhibits and is included among top things to do in Boston for family tourists. It will take you about 2 hours to explore this museum.
You can book your entrance ticket of Museum of Science in advance.
If you are looking for Boston points of interest, check out the sections below. We have prepared an exhaustive list of a variety of places and activities to enjoy in and around the city.
Things to do in Boston
Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Boston
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Museum of Science
- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- Boston Children’s Museum
- Institute of Contemporary Art
- Harvard Art Museum
- John F Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
- The Paul Revere House
- USS Constitution Ship
- USS Constitution Museum
- Old North Church
- Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
- Old State House
- Massachusetts State Museum
- Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University
- Harvard Museum of Natural History
- Bunker Hill Monument
- Old South Meeting House
- Boston Public Library
- Museum of Fine Arts
- MIT Museum
- Granary Burying Ground
- Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology
- Trinity Church
- Adams National Historical Park
- Longfellow House Museum
- Boston Athenaeum
- The Mary Baker Eddy Library
- Boston National Historical Park
- Mount Auburn Cemetery
- Museum of African American History
- King’s Chapel
- The Rose Art Museum
- Park Street Church
- MIT List Visual Arts Center
- Fredrick Law Omsted National Historical Site
- Saugus Iron Works Historical Site
- John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historical Site
- Fort Independence
- Larz Anderson Auto Museum
- Boston Massacre Site
- Massachusetts Historical Society
- Boston City Hall
- Boston Light
- Old Corner Bookstore
- Carpenter Center for Visual Arts
- Harvard Museum of the Ancient Near East
- Robert Gould Shaw and 54th Regiment Monument
- Metropolitan Waterworks Museum
- Nichols House Museum
- McMullen Museum of Art
- Old South Church
- African Meeting House
Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Boston
- Charles River Esplanade
- Blue Hills Reservation
- Middlesex Fells Reservation
- World’s End
- Jamaica Pond
Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Boston
- New England Aquarium
- Fenway Park
- Boston Common
- Faneuil Hall Marketplace
- Boston Public Garden
- Boston Harbor Island State Park
- Franklin Park Zoo
- Castle Island
- Skywalk Observatory
- Stone Zoo
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center
- Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
- Harbor Walk
- Blue Hills Ski Area
- Charlestown Navy Yard
- Franklin Park
- Harvard Yard
- The Lawn on D
- Back Bay Fens
- Trillium Brewing Company
- Harpoon Brewery
Shopping in Boston
- Quincy Market
- Newbury Street
- Boston Public Market
- Prudential Center
- Cambridge Antique Market
- Harvard Square
- Hay Market
- Downtown Crossing
- So Wa Open Market
- Cambridge Side Galleria
- Bow Market
- Copley Place Mall
- Beacon Hill
- Faneuil Hall Marketplace
- South Shore Plaza
- North End
- Natick Collection
- Atrium Mall
Beaches & Islands in Boston
- Revere Beach
- Nantasket Beach
- Spectacle Island
- Carson Beach
- Georges Island
Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure in Boston
- Whale Watching
- Kayaking
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Boat Cruise
- Bicycle Tours
Sightseeing in Boston
- Freedom Trail
- Newbury Street
- Harvard Square
- Boston Harbor
- Copley Square
- John Hancock Tower
- Black Heritage Trail
- Emerald Necklace
- Rose Kennedy Greenway
- Prudential Tower
- Leonard P Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge
- Commonwealth Avenue
Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Boston
- Regina Pizzeria
- Row 34
- Dakzen
- Picco
- Bricco
- UNI
- Giulia
- Blossom Bar
- Coppa Enoteca
- Mooncusser
- Tasting Counter
- Nightshade
- MIDA
- Sarma
- Barra
- Geppetto
- La Morra
- Kava Neo-Taverna
- Celeste
- Urban hearth
- Rino’s Place
- Oleana
- Tanam
- Pammy’s
Where to Stay in Boston?
Here we have listed Top Rated Hotels in Boston. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Boston.
- Hilton Garden Inn Boston Logan Airport
- Boston Park Plaza
- Hilton Boston Logan Airport
- Bostonian Boston
- Sheraton Boston Hotel
- Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor
- DoubleTree by Hilton Boston Bayside
- Hampton Inn & Suites Boston Crosstown Center
- Hilton Boston Back Bay
- The Verb Hotel
- Hilton Boston Downtown / Faneuil Hall
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Boston at Logan Airport
- The Godfrey Hotel Boston
- Revere Hotel Boston Common
- Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston
- Charlesmark Hotel
- The Revolution Hotel
- Omni Parker House
- Oasis Guest House
- Hyatt Place Boston/Seaport District
- YOTEL Boston
- Copley Square Hotel
- HI Boston Hostel
- The Westin Copley Place, Boston
- The Lenox Hotel
Custom Tours Package in Boston
How to Reach Boston?
By Air
Logan International Airport is the best option to visit Boston if you are coming from abroad. The airport receives direct flights from cities in Europe, North America, South America, Africa and Asia including Dublin, Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, Paris, Portland, Las Vegas, San Diego, San Francisco, Austin, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Washington, London, Lisbon, Hong Kong, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Atlanta, Tel Aviv, Aruba, Athens, Rome, Edinburgh, Dubai, Madrid, Reykjavik, Tokyo, Seoul, Barcelona, Doha, Copenhagen, Zurich, Istanbul and many more.
You can use subway, buses and cabs to get to the city from the airport. You can get day tour buses and day tour shuttle buses directly from the airport. These would help you cover some of the top things to do in Boston in a day.
By Road
You can reach Boston by train from several major cities in the United State of America. The bus network is more widespread, but traveling from distant states can be quite tiresome.
If you want to embark on Boston travel by road, you should head for routes I-95, I-93 or I-90.
By Water
You can get ferry services from Hingham, Hull and Quincy to reach Boston. There are also several cruise tours which stop at Black Falcon Cruise Terminal. Many of these include cool things to do in Boston in their itinerary. The stop is usually for a day or two.
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