Best things to do in Boston

Founded in 1630 by English puritans, Boston has a deep history and is considered by many to be the birthplace of the American Revolution. Not surprisingly then, you’ll find some of the oldest architecture in the US, some amazing restaurants and galleries, museums and places of intellectual importance too.

In fact, beneath the surface of this East Coast city, there’s a lot to pack in whether you’re here for a day, a few days or a week. If you’ve car rental in Boston sorted there are some nearby places that are well worth an extra little trip. Here’s an idea of some of the best things to do in Boston.

Freedom Trail at Boston Common

139 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02111

Start your tour of the famous Freedom Trail at Boston Common, the oldest park in the US founded in 1634. You must have heard of the ‘the shot that rang ’round the world’, as a description of the first shot of the Battle of Concord in 1775, sparking the American revolution and, eventually, the creation of the USA.

To help tourists understand this, the Freedom Trail was started, and you could describe it as a 2.5-mile one-stop-shop of 16 historical sites in Boston. The common is pretty epic in itself, so grab those walking shoes and get started.

Fenway Park

4 Jersey Street, Boston, MA 02215

Home to the legendary Red Sox, a visit to Fenway Park is a must on your Boston list. Again, there’s plenty of history to see at this baseball stadium, as it opened in 1912 and even if you aren’t an MBL fan, crowds still flock to see this awesome place to enjoy the atmosphere.

You can take a guided tour of the park and learn all about the traditions of the sport, see the Hall of Fame or, if you visit during the season, even catch a game. Boston’s famous ‘Green Monster’ wall is also here – standing at 37 feet and two inches tall.

Boston Public Garden

4 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02116

Continuing the city’s tradition as a leader in US history, the Boston Public Garden was the first botanical garden in America and was established in 1837. The garden was designed to be more decorative and floral than it’s Boston Common counterpart which was created two centuries earlier to provide a more practical walking route across the town.

The public garden invites you to meander rather than travel fast and was designed by Victorians under an artistic scheme which used new ways of fusing and propagating plants. Colorful displays and exotic species abound here. Admire the lagoon, monuments and fountains and the beautiful Swan Boats, which have been operated for more than a century by the Paget family.

Museum of Fine Arts

465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115

There’s plenty to encourage residents and visitors to explore learning and the arts in Boston. Even if you don’t go in, or have no interest in art, the building which houses the Museum of Fine Arts is well worth a stop by with its stunning neoclassical architectural design.

It first opened in 1876, housing just 5,600 pieces – a tiny amount compared to the half a million pieces it now looks after and displays. Everything from Native American, Greek, Italian and ancient Egyptian art and artefacts are housed here, as well as the work of new and contemporary artists. There’s always a range of exhibitions, festivals and activities to get involved with for all the family.

Boston Public Market

100 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02108

A gorgeous spot for foodies – or one to just walk through and browse the amazing selection of produce – is houses in this famous market space. Nearly every food you can think of can be found here, with an amazing selection from producers and growers across the globe.

Even if you aren’t feeling hungry as you peruse the artisan breads, pastries, coffee, cheese, meats and seafood, you can take a tour of the space and meet and chat with the sellers and makers. Feeling inspired? Why not take a class in The Kitchen and choose from food, health and wellbeing activities.

USS Constitution

Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA 02129

Among the city’s museums, you’ll find the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy which, of course, has its very own museum attached. This beautiful ship houses the cannons used in the 1812 battle against the British. The battle coined the ship the nickname ‘Old Ironsides ‘, because any cannons fired at it apparently just bounced off.

Many people consider the ship at the Charlestown waterfront the last stop on the Freedom Trail. Visit the nearby USS Constitution Museum in the Navy Yard to learn more about the ship and its storied history. 

Boston Tea Party

306 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210

To understand what the Boston Tea Party is, you need to first understand a bit of American history. It’s an act which some people think of as a precursor to the American Revolution. Colonialists grew tired of being taxed without representation from the British Parliament, which culminated in the British failing to revoke the tea tax.

In protest, the American colonialists boarded three British ships and threw 342 tea chests into the sea. Immerse yourself in the history of this famous incident and the situations surrounding it with a family friendly visit to the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum which offer live enactments.

Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Martha’s Vineyard lies seven miles off the coast of Massachusetts and is a picturesque island paradise. It’s just over a two-hour drive from Boston, but if you have a rental car for your trip, it’s well worth a visit.

The island is around 96 square miles and one of the largest on the East Coast. Walk along the less-crowded beaches, stroll around the quaint shops, visit a farm or enjoy a game of golf. You can also Indulge in a spa day or take in a play. You might even choose to stay over in one of the many hotels or lodges. Call it a mini-break within your break.

You can pack a lot into your trip to Boston, however long you’ve got. Our list is just a starting point for you to make the most of this exciting, historic city.

Learn more about Boston

Boston may be small, but it’s varied, and it definitely packs a punch. When you’ve sorted your sightseeing agenda, check out these other Hertz guides to help you plan your visit.

• Best restaurants in Boston
• Boston driving guide
• Boston’s neighborhoods