Boston is one of the most beloved cities in America, and for good reason. This city is known for its baked beans, Boston Marathon, Fenway Park, and a range of firsts that make this city a forerunner in innovation. Home to the first subway system, the first telephone, the first industrial arts school, and even the first social media platform.
With innovation at the forefront, Boston is one of the best cities to visit, to live, and to spend a vacation in. If you’re interested in visiting Boston and seeing its charm and culture up close, this guide is for you. There’s a lot to consider when going to Boston, but if you only have a few days to spend in this city, here’s what you need to know.
Bring Your Walking Shoes
Like other large cities, Boston is a walking city. While there are public transportation systems you can take advantage of for farther locations, many of the locals and visitors prefer to walk. Luckily, Boston is only around two square miles, so you won’t have to worry about exhausting yourself while exploring. The city is beautiful, and navigating it on foot is one of the best ways to give yourself a self guided tour.
Be sure to bring your walking shoes, an umbrella, and a few protein-packed snacks and water bottles for fuel so you don’t get too tired.
If you prefer to use the Subway system, it’s best to get a T pass or a CharlieCard. A CharlieCard is a reloadable plastic card with which you can load up new passes. A T pass is good for seven days of unlimited use. Depending on the length of your stay and your preferences, you can choose the one that works best for you. There are also water transit options for you to take advantage of and enjoy the ocean views.
Know the Best Time of Year to Visit Boston
Just like any tourist destination, Boston has its on and off seasons. If you’re planning a trip to Boston and wondering when the best time of year to visit is, consider going in the fall. Summer is the busiest season for Boston, but the weather is the warmest during these months.
However, early to mid fall is an excellent time to visit. You can catch the leaves just beginning to change to a warm auburn without dealing with the cold weather or summer crowds. This is the sweet-spot for a Boston visit. Know that if you visit in the Spring, there will likely be a lot of rain.
Plan a Boston Itinerary
Getting the most out of your trip to Boston is best accomplished when you have a plan. Here are some things to add to your Boston itinerary.
Soak in Ocean Views at Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
Head to the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park to soak in beautiful ocean views you can’t get anywhere else. With rocky cliffs, a lighthouse, and stunning deep ocean water against the bright blue Boston sky, there’s no spot more picture perfect.
Catch a Game at Fenway Park
The famous Fenway Park is home to the Boston Red Sox, so if you’re a baseball fan or just want to soak in the true Boston experience, this is a must for your itinerary. Catch a game and enjoy the epitome of American Baseball.
Learn New Things at One of Boston’s Many Museums
Boston is one of the richest cities in the United States. With rich historical involvement, deep cultural ties, and beautiful ties to art and music, there’s so much to learn and see in Boston. If you’re interested in spending time soaking up the history, music, art, or culture, consider spending time in one of Boston’s many museums.
Here are the top museums to choose from:
- The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
- The Paul REvere House
- New England Holocause Memorial
- Museum of Science
- Boston Children’s Museum
- Museum of Fine Arts
- John F Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- Institute of Contemporary Art
Many museums are free of charge for entry, so you can spend a few hours enjoying and exploring all there is to know about Boston.
Don’t Drag Your Luggage With You
While exploring Boston, it’s a good idea to store your belongings in a secure facility for luggage storage in Boston. Storing your luggage can make your trip much smoother, especially if you’re walking most of it on foot. If you have an early check out for your hotel, a late check in, or just have a few hours to kill before your flight out of Boston departs, using luggage storage to hold your belongings can let you explore hands-free and worry-free.
