Boston is a city rich in history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Boston. Here are 16 free things to do in Boston that will make your trip to this amazing city even more memorable.
H2: Walk the Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long walk through historic sites that tell the story of the American Revolution. The trail includes 16 sites, such as the Massachusetts State House, the Old North Church, and the Paul Revere House.
H2: Explore the Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library is one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the United States. Visitors can explore the library’s vast collection of books and artifacts, attend free events, or simply admire the stunning architecture.
H2: Visit the Massachusetts State House
The Massachusetts State House is an iconic building located on Beacon Hill. Visitors can take a free guided tour of the building, learn about its history and architecture, and enjoy stunning views of the city from the top of the dome.
H2: Stroll through Boston Common
Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States and a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Visitors can take a stroll through the park, have a picnic, or watch street performers.
H2: Tour the Samuel Adams Brewery
The Samuel Adams Brewery offers free tours of their facility, where visitors can learn about the beer-making process and sample some of their famous brews.
H2: See the USS Constitution
The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world and a testament to American naval history. Visitors can tour the ship and learn about its history and significance.
H2: Visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History
The Harvard Museum of Natural History is home to a vast collection of specimens from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, attend free lectures, or participate in hands-on activities.
H2: Walk along the Charles River Esplanade
The Charles River Esplanade is a beautiful park that offers stunning views of the river and the Boston skyline. Visitors can take a walk, jog, or bike along the esplanade, have a picnic, or watch the sailboats on the river.
H2: Explore the Boston Harbor Islands
The Boston Harbor Islands are a group of 34 islands that offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Visitors can take a free ferry to the islands and spend the day exploring.
H2: Attend a Free Concert at the Hatch Shell
The Hatch Shell is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts free concerts and events throughout the year. Visitors can bring a blanket and enjoy live music, movies, or fireworks.
H2: Visit the Boston Athenaeum
The Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest and most prestigious independent libraries in the United States. Visitors can explore the library’s extensive collection of books and artifacts, attend free lectures, or admire the stunning architecture.
H2: Walk along the Rose Kennedy Greenway
The Rose Kennedy Greenway is a beautiful park that runs through downtown Boston and offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can take a walk, have a picnic, or watch the street performers.
H2: Attend a Free Tour of Fenway Park
Fenway Park is one of the oldest and most iconic baseball stadiums in the United States. Visitors can attend a free tour of the stadium, learn about its history and architecture, and visit the famous Green Monster.
H2: Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a unique art museum that was founded by Isabella Stewart Gardner, an art collector and philanthropist. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of European, Asian, and American art, as well as the stunning architecture of the museum itself.
H2: Take a Free Tour of the Massachusetts State House Art Collection
The Massachusetts State House is home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts that tell the story of the state’s history and culture. Visitors can take a free guided tour of the art collection and learn about the significance of each piece.
H2: Walk through the Arnold Arboretum
The Arnold Arboretum is a 281-acre park that is home to thousands of plant species from around the world. Visitors can take a walk through the park, have a picnic, or attend a free lecture or event.
H2: Visit the Mapparium
The Mapparium is a unique three-story stained-glass globe that allows visitors to walk through the world’s continents and oceans. Visitors can learn about the history and geography of the world while enjoying the stunning colors and design of the globe.
H2: Attend a Free Concert at the Boston Public Library Courtyard
The Boston Public Library Courtyard is a beautiful outdoor space that hosts free concerts and events throughout the year. Visitors can bring a blanket and enjoy live music, dance performances, or theater shows.
H2: Walk the Black Heritage Trail
The Black Heritage Trail is a 1.6-mile walk through historic sites that tell the story of Boston’s African American community. The trail includes 14 sites, such as the African Meeting House and the Abiel Smith School.
H2: Explore the Boston Fire Museum
The Boston Fire Museum is a small but fascinating museum that tells the history of Boston’s firefighting service. Visitors can see antique firefighting equipment, learn about the history of the department, and participate in hands-on activities.
H2: Attend a Free Movie Screening at the Institute of Contemporary Art
The Institute of Contemporary Art hosts free movie screenings throughout the year, showcasing films from around the world. Visitors can enjoy a free movie while taking in the stunning views of Boston Harbor from the museum’s location.
H2: Walk through the Rose Kennedy Greenway
The Rose Kennedy Greenway is a 1.5-mile park that runs through the heart of downtown Boston. Visitors can enjoy public art installations, food trucks, and free events, such as fitness classes and concerts.
H2: Visit the USS Constitution Museum
The USS Constitution Museum is dedicated to the history of the United States Navy and the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, watch live demonstrations, and participate in hands-on activities.
Conclusion
Boston is a city rich in history, culture, and entertainment, and there are many free things to do for visitors who want to explore the city without breaking the bank. These 15 free things to do in Boston are just a few examples of the many opportunities to experience the city’s beauty and charm.
FAQs
- What are some other free things to do in Boston?
Other free things to do in Boston include visiting the Boston Common, attending a free concert at the Boston City Hall Plaza, or taking a walk along the Esplanade.
- Are there any free museums in Boston?
Yes, there are several free museums in Boston, including the Boston Children’s Museum, the Harvard Art Museums, and the MIT Museum.
- Can visitors take a free tour of Fenway Park?
No, Fenway Park charges admission for tours, but there are many other free events and attractions in Boston.
- Are there any free tours of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum?
No, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum charges admission, but there are many other free historic sites and museums to explore in Boston.
- Is it possible to see the Boston skyline from any free attractions?
Yes, visitors can see the Boston skyline from several free attractions, including the Rose Kennedy Greenway, the Harborwalk, and the Charles River Esplanade.