Summer in Boston

Things to Do in Boston in Summer

Explore the waterfront

• Boston Harbor is a bustling port with plenty of opportunities to get out on the water on a sunset cruise, a historic schooner, cycle boat tour or even a ferry to many of the Boston Harbor Islands.

• The New England Aquarium is a favorite with kids for its penguin habitat, sea lion show and convenient waterfront location. You can also set sail on a high-speed catamaran from the New England Aquarium to the National Marine Sanctuary, the feeding ground for Humpback whales and other sea life.

• Boston’s Children’s Museum was founded over 100 years ago and has been engaging kids of all ages for years. Its proximity to Boston Harbor and the Seaport District makes it a fun and easy to get to attraction.

• Duck Boat Tours — These World War II-era amphibious vehicles will have you quacking on a fun and informative tour around the city, as well as a boat ride on the Charles River.

Boston Public Garden:

• Established in 1837, this sprawling park and botanical garden in the heart of Boston features ice skating in winter and the historic Swan Boats on the pond in the summer. Don’t forget to stop by the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture in the park.

Fenway Park

• No visit to Boston would be complete without a visit to Fenway Park to see the Red Sox and sing “Sweet Caroline’ in the 7th inning. You can also book a tour of one of America’s oldest ballparks and get a behind the scenes tour and stand atop the Green Monster.

The Freedom Trail

• This historic walking route takes you through some of Boston’s most historic landmarks, including Paul Revere House, the Old North Church and the site of the Boston Massacre. Don’t miss the Granary Burying Ground, with some of Boston’s most famous residents, Sam Adams and John Hancock.

Museums

• Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is home to a massive collection, including ancient Egyptian artifacts. While you are there, be sure to check out the smaller, but charming Italianate villa, The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, home to the famous art theft in 1990.

• Boston’s Science Museum is a great place for the kids to explore with hands-on exhibits and Boston’s first Imax Theater and the Hayden Planetarium.

View the city from above

• At the very top of one of Boston’s tallest buildings, the Prudential, is View Boston, which allows 360-degree views of Boston. On a clear day, you can see Mount Monadnock, over 70 miles away.

Shopping on Newbury Street

• Boston has no shortage of upscale shopping, but Newbury Street is the place to find both luxury shops as well as a sampling of independent stores and restaurants (ice cream anyone?).

Day Trips:

Provincetown, Cape Cod

• There’s no better way to beat the summer traffic than taking the fast ferry from Boston Harbor to Provincetown. This famous LGBTQ+-friendly town on the very tip of Cape Cod is a great place to grab a lobster roll and enjoy a taste of Cape Cod and gay-friendly cheer.

• Whale Watch - Set sail on a high-speed catamaran from the New England Aquarium to the National Marine Sanctuary, the feeding ground for Humpback whales and other sea life.

Salem, Massachusetts

• Home to the historic Salem Witch Trials and the House of Seven Gables, Salem is a Mecca for all things spooky in the fall. Check out the filming locations from the movie Hocus Pocus or enjoy a Ghost Tour before the Halloween crowds descend.

• Boston’s North Shore is a short drive from the city and home to some of the State’s most picturesque beaches. Rockport, Gloucester and Manchester by the Sea are charming and historic fishing villages that now continue to offer visitors postcard-perfect views of New England.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a vibrant and historic food hall where you can get a taste of all that Boston has to offer. From lobster rolls, clam chowder, pizza and ice cream, there’s something to please everyone in this. Don’t miss a visit to the historic Faneuil Hall, which has been a meeting place for politicians since the 1700’s.

• Boston’s North End
  This lively Italian district is like being transported to another world. You can’t go wrong with finding any type of Italian cuisine here. For a customizable food tour by local guides sample the best that Cocktails & Cannolis the North End has to offer.

• Contessa - The Newbury Hotel
  This sprawling ode to design and Italian cuisine is set at the very top of The Newbury Hotel and is one of Boston’s hottest hangouts with locals and celebrities. They serve a luxurious brunch, complete with Panettone French Toast and Boston Spritz’s, as well as delicious Italian staples. Don’t forget to sample the homemade gelato — Olive Oil and Mint Chocolate Chip were my favorites!

• The Long Bar - Raffles Hotel
  This gorgeous new-build hotel has several stunning eating options, including Padrona from Chef Jody Adams, and Amar, serving upscale Portuguese good. Enjoy brunch of afternoon tea in the Long Bar, with stunning decor and lively outdoor terrace.

• The Union Oyster House
  Boston’s oldest and most famous restaurant, the Union Oyster House has roots dating back to the 1700’s and is a bucket-list location for seafood lovers in Boston.

• Grana - The Langham Hotel
  Set in the historic Federal Reserve Building, Grana serves Italian family-style breakfast and brunch in the stunning grand hall of the old bank. They also create some Instagram-worthy cocktails.