10 Best Things to Do and See in Boston
Exploring Boston on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Boston, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Boston. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Quincy Market
Located in the heart of Boston, Quincy Market is a lively spot that combines a market, food court, and shopping area popular with both visitors and locals. You will find numerous stalls offering takeout food, local specialties, and a variety of souvenir shops, all in a lively, friendly atmosphere. Its historic architecture and proximity to other well-known downtown sights make it a pleasant stop for a break, lunch, or a relaxed stroll. It is a convenient place to experience Boston’s urban atmosphere while exploring its shops.
2. Fenway Park
Fenway Park is Boston’s iconic baseball stadium in the United States and one of the city’s best-known places for sports fans. Visitors will find an arena full of atmosphere, with stands close to the field and the classic American game-day feel. Even without attending a game, the site attracts curious visitors who want to see a legendary professional baseball stadium. Located in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood, it is one of Boston’s must-see attractions for understanding the city’s sporting identity.
3. Boston Common
Boston Common is Boston’s oldest public park and a vast green space in the heart of the city, enjoyed by both locals and visitors. It features large lawns, shady pathways, benches, statues, and seasonal ponds that punctuate the walk. The park serves as a place to relax, meet, and enjoy leisure time, with spaces to walk, rest, or take in outdoor events. Located near the historic center, it also offers a pleasant starting point for exploring Boston on foot.
4. New England Aquarium
Located on Boston’s waterfront, the New England Aquarium is an ideal attraction for discovering marine life from the Atlantic and beyond. Visitors can see a wide variety of species, from tropical fish to animals from the North American coast, through large tanks and immersive exhibition spaces. The site also highlights coral reefs, sea turtles, jellyfish, and sometimes penguins, while raising awareness about ocean conservation. It is a popular visit for families and nature lovers alike.
5. Science Museum
The Museum of Science in Boston is a major attraction for discovering science in a fun, interactive way. Its galleries feature exhibits on physics, biology, astronomy, energy, and technology, with plenty of hands-on displays to explore. You will also find educational shows, practical experiments, and areas dedicated to nature and space. Ideal for families as well as curious visitors of all ages, the museum offers a clear and immersive way to learn by exploring and observing scientific phenomena.
6. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston is one of the major art museums in the United States, renowned for the richness and diversity of its collections. Visitors can discover works from many civilizations and eras, ranging from ancient art to modern creations, with an important focus on European, American, Asian, and Egyptian art. Its galleries offer the chance to admire paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and heritage objects in a setting ideal for a cultural visit. It is a must-see for art lovers as well as curious visitors to Boston.
7. Public Garden
Boston Public Garden is an elegant botanical garden and city park in the heart of the city, ideal for a break among shaded paths and flower beds. Visitors will find tall trees, well-kept lawns, pedestrian bridges, and a peaceful pond where swans and other birds often glide by. The whole setting offers a pleasant place to stroll, relax, or admire the urban landscape in a calm, leafy atmosphere. It is also a favorite spot for its seasonal beauty, from spring blooms to autumn colors.
8. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, in Boston, is one of the city’s most remarkable cultural sites for discovering an art collection presented in a unique setting. Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, decorative objects, furniture, and textiles gathered in an atmosphere reminiscent of a historic mansion. The building itself and its inner courtyard, inspired by European palaces, are part of the experience. The visit appeals to both art lovers and curious travelers, thanks to the richness of the works and the refined atmosphere that makes the museum a must-see attraction.
9. Franklin Park Zoo
Franklin Park Zoo is a zoological park set within the expansive Franklin Park landscape in Boston. Discover animals from different continents in outdoor habitats and facilities designed for their needs. The visit highlights the diversity of wildlife, as well as how an urban zoo fits into a large public park. Between tree-lined paths, themed enclosures and sheltered areas, it offers an easy, accessible look at the animal world in the heart of the city.
10. USS Constitution
USS Constitution is one of Boston’s most iconic historic sites. Preserved in the Charlestown Navy Yard, this warship lets visitors see a wooden frigate up close and discover the naval engineering of its time. The visit highlights its silhouette, onboard features, and the story of military life at sea. It also offers a window into Boston’s maritime heritage and the harbor’s role in American history.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
