Boston is and always has been my hometown, and I believe everyone should come and see all we have to offer. But when is the best time to visit Boston? Keep on reading and I’ll tell you everything you need to know about visiting my wicked awesome city.
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Best Time To Visit Boston
You can visit Boston at any time during the year and have a fantastic time. Boston is definitely worth visiting any time of the year! But each season in Boston has its own unique vibe and attractions.
Spring brings blooming flowers and ideal weather for outdoor activities. Summer is perfect for exploring the city’s parks and waterfront areas.
Fall treats visitors to breathtaking foliage and harvest festivals. Winter transforms Boston into a snowy wonderland, with cozy cafes and festive markets.
Most people agree that the absolute best time to visit Boston is September-October. The weather is gorgeous, and the trees are starting to transform into vibrant shades of oranges, yellows, and reds.
Not to mention, you potentially could catch all of the major sports games!
Boston In Fall
To many people, Autumn is definitely the best time to visit Boston. There’s leaf peeping, fall festivals and activities, and sports are back! The warm weather continues into September, but the humidity has died off.
Early October brings cooling temperatures and the gorgeous reds, yellows, and oranges of our fall foliage. All of New England explodes into vibrant shades of colors that if you haven’t seen in person, you’re really missing out on something special.
November can be wet and windy. The trees are all bare by now, and the wind and rain can make for treacherous travel. Wet leaves are slippery! It’s getting dark early, and activities are moving indoors.
Boston Weather In Fall
Fall is gorgeous in Boston. I truly believe that fall is the best time of year to visit Boston. Late September through early October is probably the sweet spot for the most ideal weather and the best fall activities.
September is still pretty solidly warm during the day, but it gets cool fast as soon as the sun sets. October is pleasant, mild, and perfect for all the wonderful outdoor fall activities like apple picking, corn mazes, and festivals.
November gets cold and rainy, and can be quite dreary. But, “nothing lasts forever, even cold November rain” (thank you Guns N’ Roses), so it’s still a great time to be here, just indoors instead of outside.
Average high temperatures in fall vary between 51-72 F.
Average low temperatures in fall vary between 38-57 F.
Expert tip: Keep a light jacket or hoodie with you, even on the sunny warm days. New England weather is notoriously temperamental, so always stay prepared for a drop in temperature in the fall, especially once the sun sets.
Boston Activities In Fall
There is so much to do in Boston in the fall! It’s the best time to visit Boston, for the foliage, for the sports, and for autumn activities. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Boston in Fall.
- Visit Salem – Salem (a bit north of Boston) is the home of the infamous Salem Witch Trials and they take Halloween very seriously over there. The Haunted Happenings in Salem is the largest Halloween celebration in the world and is full of parades, street vendors, tours, and special events. It’s truly a sight to see. See More Salem Activities Here.
- Catch A Game – Fall is the best time to catch a sports game in Boston. Football is back by late August, so you should definitely see the Patriots play at Foxboro Stadium. Basketball and hockey start around October, so you should catch a Celtics and/or Bruins game at the Garden. Baseball continues through the fall, so you could potentially even catch a Red Sox game at Fenway. What could be better?
- Columbus Day Parade – The Columbus Day parade (sometimes referred to as “Indigenous People’s Day”) has celebrated Italian heritage since 1937. Every year it switches off between the North End and East Boston. There are floats, vintage cars, marching bands, and performers that turn Boston into a lively and exciting atmosphere.
- Classic Fall Activities – There are so many amazing things to do in the fall. Go apple and pumpkin picking, get lost in a corn maze (my favorite is at Davis Mega Maze), enjoy a harvest festival, or go leaf peeping!
- Head of the Charles Regatta –This is a huge rowing competition held annually on the Charles River. People from all over the world come to row and watch the races. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see skilled rowers in action and admire the beautiful autumn colors along the river on a crisp fall day.
Visit Salem
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Boston In Winter
I hate winter, I really do. Don’t let my smile in the picture above fool you. I’ve lived in Massachusetts for my entire life and I despise winter every year. The cold is just not for me.
I’d just so much rather be warm and in the sunshine! However, that being said, it’s not all bad. In fact, there are many redeeming qualities about Boston in winter.
If you come from a milder climate, you might not want to come to Boston in wintertime. I’ll be honest here, it’s not for the faint of heart.
But, if you come from a colder climate, you’re used to snowstorms or freezing temperatures, or you just like this kind of thing, then you might actually think winter is the best time to visit Boston.
The crowds are significantly smaller. The price of hotels is lower, not to mention the availability is better all around. Reservations are pretty easy to come by.
There’s ice skating on Frog Pond. The ice sculptures on First Night (our New Year’s celebration) are mesmerizing. And the site of freshly fallen snow on the treetops and quiet streets is simply beautiful. Not to mention all the pop ups, Christmas lights, and celebrations!
Boston Weather In Winter
Winter in Boston is chilly! The days are short, there are very few hours of sunshine, and the air literally will hurt your face.
The temperatures vary from well below freezing to barely above it. But even if the thermometer says one thing, the wind chill can make it feel significantly colder. Dress for below freezing temps!
December doesn’t typically bring us a ton of snow. That’s reserved for January and February. Some years we get pounded with storm after storm, dumping feet of snow on us, and other years (lately actually) we barely get more than a dusting at a time all winter.
Average high temperatures in winter vary between 36-41 F.
Average low temperatures in winter vary between 22-28 F.
Expert tip: Be prepared for weather-related delays and/or cancellations. Have a backup plan in place in case you need to spend an extra day or two because of a storm.
Boston Activities In Winter
Winter in Boston means most things take place indoors. There’s still tons to do, and if cold weather is your thing, then winter just might be the best time to visit Boston.
- Catch A Boston Bruins Game – There’s something truly special about being at the Garden when the Bruins are playing. The vibe is just electric. I love all live sports in Boston, but the Bruins take the cake with the atmosphere. Definitely go to a Bruins game if you can.
- Visit Museums – Boston has some incredible museums. The Museum of Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Children’s Museum, the Isabella Stewart Garner Museum… they’re all incredible and worth a visit.
- Food & Wine Festival – A 12 week long celebration of all things food and wine, this event starts in January and extends through March. There are exclusive tastings and meals, and it’s not something you want to miss.
- Check Out Xmas Lights – There are tons of lightings in and around Boston. Zoo Lights are a gorgeous sight, plus there’s the annual Christmas tree lighting and all sorts of festive neighborhoods to stroll through.
- First Night – Boston’s biggest public celebration is in honor of the New Year. There are incredible ice sculptures at City Hall, Boston Common, and other areas, and they even get lit up at night. There are wonderful fireworks displays, parades, music, art – and it’s all completely free.
See A Boston Bruins Game
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Boston In Spring
Everything comes back to life in Spring! The trees are budding, the flowers are blooming, the birds are singing. If you visit Boston between March – May, you could be in for a treat.
You also could get rained out. We tend to have very rainy springs, but as the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers”, and it certainly rings true in Boston.
In March we have the St. Paddy’s Day parade which is an amazing time if you’re into revelry. April gives us the Boston Marathon and the start of baseball.
May brings us gorgeous weather and even more opportunities to enjoy it with whale watching cruises starting back up, not to mention all the Memorial Day activities and parades.
Boston Weather In Spring
Springtime easily has the most unreliable weather in Boston. It can be very rainy, even snowy, and cold temperatures can linger. We occasionally get snowstorms into April.
However, we also can have incredibly gorgeous spring days with blue skies and light breezes. Flowers start coming to life by the end of March/early April.
March is still pretty wintery as far as weather goes. It’s not unusual for us to get snow in March, sometimes even in early April.
Early April begins the transition into spring weather, and by late April we’re pretty solidly into the 50s and 60s, with some 40 and 70 degree days scattered around. May tends to be gorgeous, maybe a little rainy.
If you don’t like the weather in Boston, just wait a minute. You could have a gorgeous 70 degree day and then a snowstorm the next day. It can be chaotic, but as long as you prepare well, you’ll be fine.
Average high temperatures in spring vary between 45-66 F.
Average low temperatures in spring vary between 31-50 F.
Expert tip: Always have an umbrella handy in Spring, and dress in layers so you are prepared for whatever our unpredictable weather decides to do that day.
Springtime Activities In Boston
There are tons of great activities happening in springtime, making it one of the best times to visit Boston. Some of my top choices are these:
- Catch a Red Sox game. The beginning of April kicks off baseball season in Boston, and seeing a Red Sox game at Fenway Park should definitely be on your list. If you can’t catch a game, definitely take a tour of Fenway instead. It’s America’s oldest active ballpark and so worth seeing up close and personal. Get Your Tickets To A Sox Game Now.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Boston is very proud of its Irish roots, and the St. Paddy’s Day parade celebrates that in full force. It’s been a tradition since 1901 and includes beautifully decorated floats, music, drinks, and all-around good Irish cheer. Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day!
- The Boston Marathon. Every April Boston comes alive with the excitement of one of the oldest and most prestigious marathons in the world. And let me tell you, being there to witness it firsthand is something you won’t soon forget.
- Boston Calling Music Festival. A wicked exciting annual event, this festival showcases great talent, from big names like Ed Sheeran and Megan Thee Stallion, to lesser known up-and-comings. There’s also an incredible food selection that you don’t want to miss.
Take a Food and Freedom Tour
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Boston In Summer
Now for my personal favorite season, summer! Yes it’s hot, yes it’s humid (we call this muggy), but it’s my favorite time of year regardless. There’s tons to do! Boston is on the East Coast, so taking advantage of all the beaches and waterfront areas is a breeze.
The crowds are larger, yes. But the days are long and the sheer amount of outdoor activities is incredible.
Outdoor dining is a big plus in summer, along with all the amazing dinner cruises available. The Hatch Shell boasts tons of live music and performances all summer which is a great way to enjoy the gorgeous weather while taking in the vibe of the city.
Boston Weather In Summer
It’s hot and humid, there’s no getting around that. If you come from a dry heat type of place, you might not like Boston in summertime.
You will sweat through your clothes. Your hair will frizz up. Your makeup will sweat off. It’s just how it is.
June is still relatively dry, but it’s heating up and starting to get muggier. July and August can feel like the armpit of Satan himself, with temps soaring up to 100 some days.
August does bring incredibly comfortable nights however. It cools off when the sun starts setting and you get a break from the humidity.
Average high temperatures in summer vary between 76-81 F.
Average low temperatures in summer vary between 60-65 F.
Expert tip: It’s not a bad idea to keep a change of clothes (and maybe a swimsuit) with you just in case. Also be sure to remember sunscreen and a hat and sunglasses. That Boston sun in summer is no joke!
Boston Activities In Summer
Summer easily has the most outdoor activities available, so if being outdoors is your jam, then you may find that summer is the best time to visit Boston.
- Deep Sea Fishing. I go deep sea fishing every single summer and it’s one of my favorite days of the whole year. We go out of Gloucester but you can also go out of Boston.
- Take a Harbor Cruise. The summer is the perfect time to be out on the water! Take a sunset harbor cruise, a delicious dinner cruise, a perfect brunch cruise, or an awesome historical sightseeing cruise.
- Enjoy Boston Foods. Whether you’re taking a North End food tour, a seafood lover’s adventure, or enjoying any of the numerous outdoor pop ups and festivals, the Boston food scene is epic.
- Walk the Freedom Trail. Walk along a path through the city that takes you to important spots from the Revolutionary War era. You can stand where the Boston Massacre happened or visit the home of Paul Revere, who played a big role in American history. I strongly recommend taking a guided Freedom Trail tour for the best experience! See Freedom Trail guided tours here.
Enjoy A Harbor Cruise
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Best Time To Visit Boston For The Sports
Easily the best time to visit Boston for the sports is in autumn. Depending on exactly when you go, you could catch any one of the big sports teams in action.
Springtime does give us the return of baseball, but the fall gives us the potential to see all of the major sports games. And since the Patriots and Red Sox are both played outdoors, you also want more mild weather if you’re going to a game.
- Baseball Season – The regular season runs from late March/early April to late September/early October, followed by the postseason which can run to early November.
- Football Season – Preseason begins in August, followed by the regular season games which run until around the beginning of January. The Super Bowl takes place on the second Sunday in February.
- Basketball Season – The regular season starts mid-to-late October and runs to about mid April. The playoffs and finals then run through June.
- Hockey Season – The regular season starts in October and runs through mid-April. Playoffs are played thereafter, culminating in the Stanley Cup Final in early June.
- Soccer Season – The regular season starts in mid-February and goes through mid-October. The playoffs then run from October through early December.
Best Time To Visit Boston For The Weather
I love summer and everything about it. Even the high humidity doesn’t bother me.
But, most people prefer milder weather, in which case fall is definitely the best time to visit Boston. The humidity has died down but it’s still warm enough for tons of outdoor activities.
It can be windy, but the earlier in the fall you go, the more reasonable the weather tends to be. Sometimes September still feels like summer! It does cool off quick once the sun sets so make sure to always have a jacket with you, even on the warm fall days.
Best Time To Visit Boston For Fall Foliage
I mean, it sort of goes without saying, but the best time to visit Boston for fall foliage is well, the fall.
The exact timing differs every year, but October is your best bet for peak leaf peeping.
Early in the month is when the leaves are changing into vibrant shades of yellows, oranges, and reds. Later in the month those colors deepen into golds, dark oranges, and crimsons.
On sunny days, the trees can look like they’re on fire, they’re so brightly colored. It’s actually incredible to see in person. I’ve lived here my whole life and our foliage takes my breath away every single year.
Lots of folks go on fall foliage road trips to really get the whole experience. You can either rent a car and take a self-guided tour up into New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, etc. or you can opt for a guided fall foliage tour with an expert, which I recommend doing.
Guided New England Fall Foliage Tour
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Best Time To Visit Boston With Kids
I would have to say that any time between May – October would be the best time to visit Boston with kids. There’s tons of things to do in Boston with kids of all ages, both indoors and outdoors.
We’re an outdoorsy sort of family, so my kids love going hiking, camping, swimming, and pretty much anything that can be done outside.
You can visit museums, go on a whale watch, visit the zoos, go to the beach and so much more. Salem is a fantastic place to bring kids, and they can even see locations where the movie Hocus Pocus was filmed!
Things To Do In Boston With Kids
- Children’s Museum
- Museum of Science
- Boston Common
- Esplanade
- Outdoor Activities – fishing, canoeing, hiking, biking, etc.
- Historical Sites
- Boston sports games
- Parades
- Festivals
Go On A Whale Watch
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Notable Annual Boston Events
- Bunker Hill Day Parade – In remembrance of The Battle of Bunker Hill, every year there’s a massive parade in Charlestown. There’s historical reenactments, floats, marching bands – it’s seriously a spectacle to behold.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Boston proudly celebrates its Irish heritage each year with the St. Patrick’s Day parade, a tradition dating back to 1901. This festive event showcases beautifully decorated floats, upbeat music, and plenty of Irish cheer. People from all over gather to join in the fun and honor Boston’s deep connection to Ireland. It’s a celebration that brings the community together.
- Patriot’s Day Festival – Patriot’s Day is officially celebrated on Marathon Monday, but parades, celebrations, and reenactments happen all throughout the weekend. The most dramatic events include Paul Revere’s midnight ride from Boston across the countryside, marches of local historic militias, and battles reenacted in Lexington and Concord.
- Boston Harborfest – One of the country’s biggest Independence Day celebrations takes place in Boston, ironically enough since fireworks are banned in Massachusetts for citizens. Festivities take place over a 4 or 5 day span, and include live performances, music, fireworks, and more.
- St. Anthony’s Feast – National Geographic named this North End celebration “the feast of all feasts”. Italian immigrants started it back in 1919 and it is spectacular. Every manner of authentic Italian food is available, plus there are singers, dancers, parades, and more.
- Columbus Day Parade – Although the PC crowd has recently redubbed it “Indigenous People’s Day”, the Columbus Day parade has celebrated Italian heritage since 1937. Every year it switches off between the North End and East Boston. There are floats, vintage cars, marching bands, and performers that turn Boston into a lively and exciting atmosphere.
- First Night – Boston’s biggest public celebration is in honor of the New Year. There are incredible ice sculptures at City Hall, Boston Common, and other areas, and they even get lit up at night. There are wonderful fireworks displays, parades, music, art – and it’s all completely free.
- Boston Calling Music Festival – Held annually in spring at Harvard’s Athletic Complex, this 3 day festival showcases amazing talent with live performances. You have huge names like Ed Sheeran, Hozier, and the Killers, and tons of lesser known up-and-coming artists. There’s also a huge array of food choices that will satisfy literally anyone’s tastes.
Conclusion – Best Time To Visit Boston
So to recap, the best time to visit Boston is between May and October, but there are pros and cons all year round.. Narrowing that down will depend largely on your preferences.
Spring is when everything comes back to life and it is absolutely gorgeous. The sheer amount of flowers and blossoms everywhere is breathtaking. The weather is temperamental but it’s a great time to visit Boston.
Summer months are busy but ideal if you love the outdoors and don’t mind the heat and humidity. It’s perfect for beach days or being on the water and is my personal favorite time of year.
Fall is the best time to visit Boston if you’re into sports or looking to admire the foliage. Salem is one of the hottest Halloween towns in the world, so visiting in October is an experience unlike anything else.
If you love the cold and don’t mind spending the majority of your time indoors, winter is the best time to visit Boston. The crowds are virtually non-existent, it’s easy to get reservations for hotels and restaurants, and it tends to be cheaper.
Additional Helpful Information And Resources
I love my city, and I want you to love it too! Here are some more helpful articles that you may find useful in your endeavors to find your own best time to visit Boston.
Enjoy!
Is Boston Worth Visiting? 16 Reasons To Go Right Now
The Best Boston Sightseeing Tours To Take
Backstage At The Verb Hotel In Boston Review
Should You Bother Taking A Fenway Park Tour?
Is The Freedom Trail Guided Tour Worth It?
One Day In Boston: Ultimate Guide To Top City Highlights
The 10 Best Boston Food Tours You Need To Take
