Is Boston worth visiting? Well, as a Boston native and avid traveler, I can assure you that it is an absolute gem waiting to be explored. Here are 15 compelling reasons why you should pack your bags and head to Boston right now.
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Is Boston Worth Visiting?
Are you wondering if Boston is worth a visit? I’ve lived here my entire life, so not only am I an expert on all things Boston, but I’ve also got the wicked awesome accent to go with it.
Boston is New England’s biggest city. It’s got incredibly diverse neighborhoods, food to die for, the best sports of all time, and it’s where the American Revolution got started.
Boston is good for solo travelers, couples, families, friends – Boston is good for everyone. There’s so much to see and do here! We get all 4 seasons, (sometimes in one day), we have gorgeous beaches, and some of the best schools in the country.
So, if you’re trying to decide if Boston is worth visiting, keep on reading. I’ve listed my top 16 reasons why you should come visit Boston to have a wicked good time.
No Time To Read?
Is Boston worth visiting? My answer is YES! Here’s my top picks for Hotel, Food, and Sightseeing.
1. Rich History
First and foremost, Boston is like a living history book, especially if you’re into stories from America’s past. One must-see is the Freedom Trail, 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. These places make history feel real. I truly believe the Freedom Trail alone makes Boston worth visiting.
You easily can take a self-guided walk along the Freedom Trail, but I’m a huge fan of guided tours. You get local Bostonians who are passionate about our history, and they really make it come to life. My top pick for a Freedom Trail tour is this one below.
Small Group Freedom Trail Guided Tour
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A little north of Boston is Salem, MA where the infamous Salem Witch Trials took place. Here, you can hear about the mania and hysteria surrounding the community at that time. You can even visit modern day magic shops where you can buy crystals, herbs, spells, and more.
2. Delicious Food Makes Boston Worth Visiting
Boston has a fantastic food scene. We have tons of restaurants, food trucks, cafes, and more. You can dine at an upscale boutique type restaurant or an artisanal pizza place. Literally anything you want, you can get in Boston.
One of my favorite things about the city is the diversity. Every imaginable culture is represented by their food in Boston and I love it.
Boston Neighborhoods To Eat In
There are a few neighborhoods that you want to head to if you have certain types of food in mind. My favorites are:
- The North End – If you’re looking for the best authentic Italian food around, head over to the North End. It’s affectionately known as “Little Italy” due to the large number of Italians living there.
- Chinatown – As the name implies, you get the best Chinese food around in Chinatown, but also fantastic Asian cuisine in general. Hot Pot, sushi, dim sum, dumplings, pho – you name it, it’s here.
- Seaport District – If you want an upscale, fine dining experience, head on over to the Seaport District. You’ll find seafood, Greek, French, pan-Asian, and more.
- Dorchester – Some of the best Vietnamese restaurants in the state are located in Dorchester. You can also find unbelievable Jamaican and other Caribbean foods.
- East Boston – Tons of Latin America restaurants are located in Eastie. There are amazing Colombian spots, and fantastic Mexican restaurants too.
Boston Food To Try
When you come, you just have to have some of the types of food that Boston is famous for.
- Clam Chowder – Yes, it’s pronounced “chowdah” but if you don’t have the accent you’ll never get it right, trust me. But let me tell you, a bread bowl full of steamy clam chowder is an absolute must-try, especially if you visit in winter.
- Lobster Roll – The lobster rolls in Boston are incredible. Perfectly cooked lobster in a buttery toasted bun, and lightly dressed to enhance the natural flavors. They can be pricey, but you’ve got to have one while you’re visiting Boston.
- Fenway Frank – You simply cannot come to Boston and not have a Fenway Frank. If you’re seeing the Red Sox play, a Fenway Frank is an absolute must-have. The nation’s oldest ballpark has perfected the hotdog like you wouldn’t believe.
- Boston Cream Donut – A Boston Cream Donut is an iconic snack here. You get a delicious donut filled with an ooey-gooey custard filling, topped with chocolate. It’s absolutely divine if you like donuts.
- Boston Cream Pie – The inspiration for Boston Cream Donuts, the Boston Cream Pie is actually a cake. It’s made with two spongy layers of cake filled with custard. It’s brushed with rum and topped with chocolate, and is amazing.
Best Boston Food Tours
Like I said earlier, I’m a big fan of guided tours. There are a few fantastic food tours in Boston that are definitely worth taking!
Boston Seafood Lovers Adventure
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Food & Freedom Tour
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Boston Delicious Donut Adventure
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3. World Class Museums
Boston has so many amazing museums, no matter what you’re into – science, art, history, architecture, and more. Here are my top picks for the best museums in Boston to check out.
The Museum Of Science
Easily my favorite museum in Boston, the Museum of Science is fantastic for all ages. There are tons of exhibits, many of which are hands-on, so you really get to interact with science in a cool way. It makes Boston worth visiting, for sure.
You can learn about sustainability, animals, AI, engineering, space, and so much more. The Omni Theatre is a 5-story-high domed screen where you get completely engulfed in an IMAX film. And the Planetarium lets you view the night sky in a way that simply takes your breath away.
The Museum of Fine Arts
If art is your thing then the Museum of Fine Arts is a must-see Boston museum for you. There are tons of exhibits and incredible works to see, ranging from one of the largest collections of Monet works outside of France, to art from the Italian Renaissance, to Egyptian mummies and more.
Buy Museum of Fine Arts Admission Tickets Now.
Boston Children’s Museum
If you have kids, the Boston Children’s Museum is a must-see in Boston. It’s the second-oldest children’s museum in the world, and encourages learning through fun, hands-on, interactive experiences. Kids can learn all about science, engineering, nature, and so much more, all while having a blast in a safe environment.
There’s a cool bubble room, arts and crafts, fort building, space, dinosaurs… the list goes on and on. Three floors of incredible activities to keep kids of all ages engaged and learning while they play.
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The single largest property theft in the world happened at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in 1990. 13 precious works of art were taken. I’m talking Manet, Rembrandt, Degas… wicked valuable pieces!
To this day, the heist remains a mystery and there are rewards offered for the safe return of the pieces, or information leading to the return of them. You can see the empty frames still serving as placeholders in a symbol of hope for the works of art to finally be returned.
Aside from empty frames, there are of course thousands of other works of art to be admired at this museum. Isabella collected more than 7500 paintings, sculptures, books, and artifacts from all over the world. It’s truly an impressive collection of art and something you should make it a point to see while you’re in Boston.
4. Deep Sea Fishing
I go deep sea fishing every single year with my hubby and a group of friends. It’s one of my absolute favorite things to do in Boston in summer.
There are tons of fishing boats that take you out, or you can even charter your own boat. You can go out for a half-day or a full-day. I prefer full day, personally! Even if you’ve never been, the crew will take great care of you and help you every step of the way.
Being on the coast, there are tons of towns that are popular for fishing. We tend to go out of Gloucester, one of New England’s premier fishing spots.
When you go deep sea fishing, you can catch all sorts of fish, like cod, haddock, big tuna, and striped bass. It’s not just about catching fish, though. Being out on the ocean is beautiful, and you can see amazing views of the coastline.
5. Whale Watching
Whale watching is definitely a must-do and makes Boston worth visiting. We go out of Gloucester, which is a little coastal town north of Boston. The Atlantic has all sorts of marine life that you could see.
Humpback whales are a common species, and you can also occasionally see Minke, Fin, Sperm, Blue, and Northern Right whales, along with dolphins and porpoises.
We’ve always had great luck in August, but the best time to go whale watching in Boston is anywhere between May and October.
6. Boston Common
Boston Common is America’s oldest public park, dating back to 1634. As you enter, you find yourself surrounded by lush lawns, leafy trees, and a picturesque pond where swan boats gracefully glide. It’s simply beautiful.
Boston Common was very important for early colonists. It was a gathering place, a site for public hangings, and a training ground for Revolutionary War soldiers. Now you can visit the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, a towering tribute to those who served in the Civil War.
Today, locals and visitors come here to unwind. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely picnic, a game of catch, or simply lounging on the grass with a good book. In the winter, the Common transforms into a wonderland with ice-skating on Frog Pond, adding a touch of magic to the city.
7. Fenway Park Makes Boston Worth Visiting
Fenway Park has been the beloved home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912, making it the oldest active Major League Baseball stadium in the country. Also, it’s where my husband took me on our first date, so it holds an even more special place in my heart.
The atmosphere at Fenway is absolutely electric. The sight of the famous Green Monster is enough to send shivers down any baseball lover’s spine. The roar of the crowd, the crack of the bat, and the seventh-inning stretch are all part of the Fenway experience that captures the essence of the game.
Fenway Park is like a living museum of baseball history. You can even take a guided Fenway Park tour to learn about this rich history, explore the player’s locker rooms, and soak in the nostalgia.
8. Swan Boat Rides
While you’re in Boston Common, be sure to take a Swan Boat ride. These adorable Swan Boats have been a beloved tradition in Boston since 1877. They’re a delightful way to soak in the beauty of the city while enjoying a touch of nostalgia.
Each Swan Boat has a charming white swan sculpture on it, and they’re actually pedal-powered. The skilled operators steer the boats with their feet – a technique that’s been passed down through generations.
You purchase your tickets at the dock prior to boarding the boat. The ride lasts about 15 minutes. Note that the Swan Boats do not operate on very hot days, in the rain, or if it’s very windy. You can enjoy swan boats from April through Labor Day, weather permitting.
9. Retail Therapy
Who doesn’t love a little retail therapy? A point of interest that definitely makes Boston worth visiting is the selection of fantastic shops and boutiques all around the city.
Newbury Street in particular is full of shops, salons, art galleries, and cafes. You can find all the high-end names people love, and also quaint boutique shops full of exciting and eclectic pieces.
You also should check out the Prudential Center (AKA the Pru), which is basically a huge mall in the second-tallest tower in Boston. There are over 70 shops and eateries, and the observatory has absolutely breathtaking 360° indoor and outdoor views and interactive experiences.
10. Stunning Beaches Make Boston Worth Visiting
Massachusetts has over 1,500 miles of coastline, which in of itself makes Boston worth visiting. There are tons of beaches to visit, and since we’re on the East Coast, the sunrises are incredible. Like, truly awe-inspiring.
Some of my favorite beaches are:
- Boston Harbor Islands National Park in Boston – Made up of 34 unique islands and peninsulas, you can boat, swim, explore tide pools, play in a playground, fly kites, and so much more. There’s tons to do here for every age and it’s definitely worth spending time here.
- Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester – Fluffy white sand, tide pools, sand dollars, rocks, bathrooms, and food for sale. When it’s low tide you can walk out a long distance. We love to take the dog here (off season only) and let him run and play.
- Crane Beach in Ipswitch – More than 1,200 acres of beachfront, dunes, and maritime forest. More than 5 miles of trails wind through coastal dunes, and dogs and horses are allowed October 1 – March 31.
- Salisbury Beach in Salisbury – This wonderful beach overlooks the point at which the Merrimack River feeds the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a great place to swim, boat, or camp.
- Nahant Beach in Nahant – This is where my husband and I come to watch the sunrise. It’s situated perfectly to view the sun come up over the Atlantic Ocean. The colors that get thrown into the sky are breathtaking and this beach alone makes Boston worth visiting.
11. The Charles River Views
Taking a stroll along the Charles River is something that makes Boston worth visiting. It’s such a nice break from the busy city life. Walking there feels peaceful and calming.
As you walk by the river, you can see lots of different people enjoying themselves. Some are riding bikes, others are jogging, and there are even some people just sitting and enjoying the scenery.
The area around the Charles River, called the Esplanade, is like a big park with lots of cool stuff. There are playgrounds, places to exercise outside, docks where you can sit and watch the water, and big fields where you can play games.
One really famous spot there is called the Hatch Shell. In the summer, they have concerts and events there, so it’s a great place to go for some outdoor entertainment. It’s a nice way to spend some time outside and enjoy the city’s vibe.
12. The Boston Marathon Makes Boston Worth Visiting
The Boston Marathon is definitely one of the reasons why Boston is worth visiting. Every April the city comes alive with the excitement of one of the oldest and most prestigious marathons in the world. The whole city is buzzing with energy, and you can’t help but get caught up in the excitement.
As the marathon kicks off, thousands of runners from all over the globe lace up their sneakers and take on the iconic 26.2-mile route. And let me tell you, being there to witness it firsthand is something you won’t soon forget.
The streets are all lined with cheering crowds, you hear the sound of footsteps pounding against the pavement, and you see the sight of runners pushing themselves to the limit. It’s an incredible atmosphere that captures the essence of Boston’s resilience and community spirit.
13. Duck Boats
The Boston Duck Tours is another popular activity that makes Boston worth visiting. Imagine hopping into an authentic, renovated World War II amphibious vehicle affectionately known as a “Duck.” You are in for a comprehensive tour of Boston like no other.
As your journey begins, you cruise past iconic Boston landmarks. See Boston Common, Quincy Market, and the TD Garden, home to the Boston Celtics. Your tour guide, known as a ConDUCKtor®, is your lively narrator, filling your journey with fascinating stories about Boston’s history and famous sites.
But here’s where things get extra exciting – your DUCK doesn’t just stay on land. It’s time for a splashdown into the Charles River. Yes, you heard that right! You transition from the city streets to the serene waters, with breathtaking views of Boston from a whole new angle.
What makes the Duck Tours even more special is the blend of entertainment and education. Your ConDUCKtor® infuses history with humor, ensuring you not only learn fascinating facts but also have a blast along the way.
14. Renowned Colleges and Universities
Boston is home to some of the most elite colleges and universities in the world. Most cities can boast about one or two schools but Boston has so many it’s tough to just pick one. The top 5 are below, which includes the number 1 and 2 top ranked schools in the world.
- Harvard University is ranked #1 in the world by US News. It’s the oldest higher education institution in the US, and its majors span across nearly every serious study imaginable. The grounds are stunning, and you can take guided Harvard University tours to experience the daily life of the students.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is ranked #2 in the world by US News. MIT contains five schools: architecture and planning; engineering; humanities, arts, and social sciences; management; and science. MIT’s an elite school for the brightest minds, and you can even tour the school and grounds.
- Boston University is one of the largest independent, nonprofit universities in the country. It was the first university to open all divisions to female students in 1872. The BU Terriers have more than 20 NCAA Division I varsity sports, and created one of the first study abroad programs. BU currently sponsors more than 90 international programs.
- Tufts University is a world-class private research university in Greater Boston. They have 4 campuses, all devoted to the creation and application of knowledge.
- Boston College is the first institution of higher education to operate in the city of Boston. It stays true to its Jesuit Catholic roots and still has a strong religious affiliation. BC is an internationally respected research university and a center of academic excellence.
15. Celebrations and Festivals Make Boston Worth Visiting
Nobody celebrates like a Bostonian. We have so many celebrations, and half the time we don’t even know what we’re celebrating. But if you’re into having a good time, our festivals and celebrations certainly make Boston worth visiting.
Celebrations That Make Boston Worth Visiting
- 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 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.
- 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.
16. The Sports Make Boston Worth Visiting
No one, and I do mean no one, does sports better than Boston. You either love us or love to hate us, and that’s a fact.
We have the Boston Bruins, the Boston Red Sox, the Boston Celtics, and the New England Patriots, all of which have roots that go back to the earliest days of their leagues. Therefore, our fandom is multigenerational – meaning our grandparents and great grandparents were rooting for the same teams we are today.
Boston has been blessed with some of the most iconic athletes of all time. Tom Brady, Bill Belichick, Larry Bird, Bobby Orr, Ted Williams, Big Papi, and so many more huge sports names are all ours.
The energy going to the games is unbelievable too. You get swept up in a sense of camaraderie and friendship with complete strangers, all because of these amazing teams and players.
For me, there’s nothing like going to a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. Like I mentioned above, it’s where my husband and I went on our first date, so it’s even more special to me. The whole vibe of Boston sports as a whole is just electric though.
Best Time To Visit Boston
Many people wonder what time of year is Boston worth visiting most of all. Well, you can find incredible things to do all year round to be honest. My personal favorite will always be summer, because I’m a big fan of the warmth and sunshine.
But we are blessed here to have all 4 seasons in Boston, all of which have their own special appeal.
Is Boston Worth Visiting In Spring?
Springtime in Boston can be absolutely gorgeous. Everything is coming back to life, the birds are singing, the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and the Red Sox are back!
It also can be quite rainy, however. Sometimes our winter weather likes to hang around for a bit, and sometimes we get a gorgeous sunny springtime.
As far as crowds go, as soon as the weather starts getting nice the crowds get larger. Since we have tons of schools, all the college kids come out in droves the moment the sun peeks out. Spring is still not as crowded as summertime though, and is a wonderful time to visit Boston!
Is Boston Worth Visiting In Summer?
Summer is my favorite time of year in Boston! Between fishing trips and whale watches, sightseeing and more, summer is a great time to visit Boston.
To me, our summer weather is perfect. It can get a little humid (we call this muggy), but most of the time the weather in Boston in summer is fantastic. I’m a big fan of hot weather!
The crowds are largest in summer however, so keep that in mind and make reservations early.
Is Boston Worth Visiting In Fall?
Fall in Boston is simply gorgeous. First of all, our foliage is absolutely incredible and is one of the things that makes Boston worth visiting.
Secondly, the humidity has died down and the weather is blissfully pleasant. The sun is still shining, it’s still warm, but it’s significantly more comfortable than the summer heat.
Thirdly, sports are back! With the exception of baseball (which may or may not still be on), all our major sports start back up. Since Boston is a big sports city, fall is a great time to catch a game while the weather is still good.
Finally, fall in Boston is jam-packed with awesome autumn activities. Go apple picking, get lost in a corn maze, pick your way through a pumpkin patch – there’s tons to do in Boston in fall.
Is Boston Worth Visiting In Winter?
Boston in winter can be brutal, but it also can be amazing. In winter, Boston Common becomes an ice-skating wonderland.
The First Night celebration is fantastic, especially seeing all the incredible ice sculptures. And seeing the snow fall against a backdrop of all the old buildings can be a magical experience.
The crowds are significantly smaller in winter, so reservations at hotels and restaurants are much easier to get. But the wind can be strong, and parking can be a pain if there’s snow.
Is Boston Worth Visiting With Kids?
Yes Boston is definitely worth visiting with kids. There is so much to do here! Between interactive museums, scenic parks, exciting events, and delicious food, there’s something for every age group to enjoy.
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
So, Is Boston Worth Visiting?
My answer to this is a firm YES. I love Boston. I’ve lived here my whole life, I’m raising my kids here, and have no plans on moving away any time soon.
Our sports are the greatest, the food and nightlife is fantastic, and the activities are endless. Having 4 seasons might be my favorite part. (Although I’m not gonna lie, I could use shorter winters!)
“Is Boston worth visiting” is a question that really only you can answer for yourself, once you’ve been here. I believe you’ll agree with me and realize yes, Boston is totally worth visiting.
Additional Helpful Information And Resources
I love my city, and I want you to love it too! Here are some more helpful articles about Boston that you may find useful in your endeavor to see if Boston is worth visiting.
These articles are your gateway to uncovering the best of my hometown. Enjoy!
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
The Best 10 Salem Witch Tours To Take
