I’ve only been to Boston a few times on short weekend trips, so I’m calling this a “mini” guide. Here’s a list of things I’ve done and liked when I’ve gone:
Things to do in Boston:
Freedom Trail: A 2.5 mile walk that connects sixteen Revolutionary War historic sites. If you ever get turned around, just look for the red brick line that cuts into the middle of the sidewalk and you’ll know you’re heading in the right direction. We followed a map online when we went, but it would be cool to download a walking tour podcast to listen to.
Boston Public Garden: A beautiful spot in the city. It would be fun to do a picnic lunch here! Don’t miss the Swan Boats at the pond if you’re there in summer months (you can actually ride them and it’s not that expensive! I’ve never ridden them before but it looks like it would be a fun experience for little kids). There’s also a Make Way for Ducklings sculpture based on the children’s book, since the story is set in the garden and other parts of Boston. Boston Common and the Boston Public Library are also within walking distance from the garden.
Harvard Square: There are lots of fun restaurants and shops in this area, and Harvard’s campus is just across the street. We liked visiting Harvard Book Store and grabbing lunch at SOURCE.
USS Constitution Museum: Another free activity! The USS Constitution is the oldest ship in the world still afloat. You can walk through all the levels of the ship and hear from guides about its history.
Kayak the Charles River: The best thing we’ve done in Boston. You can rent canoes or paddle boards as well, but we rented a double kayak and got a lower rate by going in the evening. This is a really fun way to see the city, especially if you’re going during the summer months.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: Not your average art museum! Although I like visiting art museums, the interior of the building itself is what first made me interested in going. Then I learned that the biggest art heist in modern history took place in this museum in 1990. Thirteen works of art were stolen and the thieves just cut the canvases out from their frames. The mystery of who stole the art has never been solved, and the art has never been recovered. You can still see the empty frames from the robbery on the walls. There’s a documentary on Netflix about it if you want to check it out before going. Tickets for the museum are $20/adult. Book your time slot online in advance.
Fenway Park: Most things in Boston are the oldest in America, and Fenway Park is no exception. I’m more of a Yankees fan (if we’re being honest, I’m not much of a sports person in general), but it was still cool to see the oldest MLB ballpark. 60 minute guided tours are $25/person, and you can book your tickets online in advance. Download the MLB app to show your tickets, and report to the gift shop across from the stadium about ten minutes before your tour’s start time.
What to eat in Boston:
Flour Bakery + Cafe: This is a great spot for a quick breakfast, or to grab some snacks for your day. Their brioche au chocolat and parmesan chive scone are our favorites. They have a bunch of locations throughout the Boston area.
Levain Bakery: My favorite NYC cookies are now in Boston! I love the Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip flavor.
Sweetgreen: This chain isn’t unique to Boston, but it’s still one of my favorite lunch spots when I’m in a city that has one. They have really good salads and bowls if you’re looking for something lighter to fuel your day.
SOURCE: Their pizza was really good, and we also liked the blueberry souffle pancakes for brunch. Be sure to make a reservation online in advance.
TIPS:
Street parking is free on Sundays—you don’t have to pay the parking meters (although actually finding street parking is another issue entirely, be sure to give yourself ample time before you plan to be somewhere to find parking). Boston also has a subway system if you want to avoid driving or need to give your legs a rest.