4-Day Boston Itinerary: Outdoor Adventure, Sightseeing & Shopping
Boston, Massachusetts
4 days
About Boston, Massachusetts
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Boston, Massachusetts. Walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes you through 16 historically significant sites, including the Massachusetts State House and Paul Revere's House. Explore the diverse neighborhoods, from the Italian-flavored North End to the trendy Back Bay. Visit the world-renowned Harvard University and MIT located in nearby Cambridge. Enjoy a game at Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox. Savor fresh seafood, especially the famous New England clam chowder. Take a relaxing stroll in the Boston Common and Public Garden, the oldest city park in the U.S. Don't miss the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and the USS Constitution Museum. With its blend of colonial charm and urban sophistication, Boston offers a unique travel experience.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Art and Nature in Boston
Morning
Begin your day at the Boston Public Garden, where you can take a ride on the famous Swan Boats or simply enjoy the beautiful floral displays.
Lunch
Have lunch in one of the trendy cafes in the Back Bay area. This neighborhood is known for its Victorian brownstone homes and fashionable boutiques.
Afternoon
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest museums in the United States. It contains more than 450,000 works of art, making it one of the most comprehensive collections in the Americas.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner in the North End, Boston's oldest residential community. Known for its Italian restaurants, the North End offers a variety of dining options.
Evening
Spend the evening walking along the picturesque Charles River Esplanade. The park offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for outdoor activities.
Day 3
Aquatic Adventures and Neighborhood Exploration
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the New England Aquarium. Home to thousands of aquatic animals, the aquarium offers an exciting and educational experience.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries in the Waterfront area. The neighborhood offers a variety of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual cafes.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood. Known for its narrow, gaslit streets and federal-style rowhouses, Beacon Hill is one of Boston's most picturesque areas.
Dinner
Have dinner in the South End, a neighborhood known for its diverse culinary scene. From trendy bistros to ethnic eateries, there's something for everyone.
Evening
End your day with a performance at one of Boston's many theaters. Whether you prefer a Broadway show or a local production, you're sure to be entertained.
Day 4
Revolutionary History and Shopping Spree
Morning
Begin your last day in Boston with a visit to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. This interactive museum offers a chance to learn about the events that led to the American Revolution.
Lunch
Have lunch in the Fort Point area, known for its artist community and trendy eateries. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants offering views of the Boston skyline.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon shopping on Newbury Street. This eight-block street is known for its many retail shops, from high-end designer boutiques to popular chain stores.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Boston in the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood. Known for its wide variety of Asian cuisine, Chinatown offers a unique dining experience.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Skywalk Observatory. Located on the 50th floor of the Prudential Tower, the observatory offers panoramic views of the Boston skyline.
Attractions in Itinerary (11)
1Freedom Trail
A 2.5-mile-long path through downtown Boston that passes by 16 locations significant to the history of the United States.
2Boston Common
Central public park in downtown Boston, dating from 1634, it is the oldest city park in the United States.
3Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, located near the waterfront and today's Government Center, in Boston, Massachusetts, has been a marketplace and a meeting hall since 1743. It was the site of several speeches by Samuel Adams, James Otis, and others encouraging independence from Great Britain.
4Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise in Boston offers a unique way to see the city's skyline and harbor. It's a relaxing way to end the day, with beautiful views of the setting sun over the city's historic buildings and modern skyscrapers.
5Museum of Fine Arts
One of the largest museums in the United States, containing more than 450,000 works of art.
6Charles River Esplanade
The Charles River Esplanade is a state-owned park situated in the Back Bay area of Boston, Massachusetts. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities like running, biking, and boating, and it offers stunning views of the Boston skyline.
7New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is a public aquarium located in Boston, Massachusetts. In addition to the main aquarium building, attractions at the New England Aquarium include the Simons IMAX Theatre and the New England Aquarium Whale Watch, which operates from April through November.
8Beacon Hill
Historic neighborhood known for its narrow, gaslit streets and federal-style rowhouses.
9Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
A floating history museum with live reenactments, multimedia exhibits & a tearoom offering period fare.
10Newbury Street
An upscale shopping district in Boston, Massachusetts, known for its many retail shops and dining establishments.
11Skywalk Observatory
The Skywalk Observatory is the only observatory in New England offering a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Clam Chowder
A creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and bacon. It's a staple in Boston and a must-try for seafood lovers.
Lobster Roll
A sandwich filled with fresh, succulent lobster meat. It's a classic New England dish and a favorite in Boston.
Boston Cream Pie
The official dessert of Massachusetts. It's a cake filled with custard or cream and topped with chocolate.
Boston Baked Beans
A traditional dish made with navy beans, molasses, and pork. It's a staple in Boston and a part of the city's colonial history.
Fish and Chips
A popular dish in Boston due to its coastal location. It consists of battered and fried fish served with fries.
New England Boiled Dinner
A hearty meal consisting of corned beef, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes. It's a traditional dish in Boston and the New England area.
Sam Adams Beer
A popular local beer named after one of Boston's most famous historical figures, Samuel Adams.
Oysters
Fresh oysters are a must-try in Boston due to its coastal location. They are often served raw with a side of lemon and cocktail sauce.
Fenway Franks
A type of hot dog that's a favorite at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox.
Indian Pudding
A traditional New England dessert made with cornmeal and molasses. It's a unique dish that's a part of Boston's colonial history.
Clambake
A traditional New England meal that includes lobster, clams, corn on the cob, and potatoes. It's a popular dish in Boston, especially during the summer.
Harpoon IPA
A local craft beer that's a favorite in Boston. It's known for its strong hop flavor and crisp finish.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Boston, Massachusetts is from June to October. Summer is peak season when the city's parks are green and bustling, and the weather is warm and pleasant. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit as you can witness the stunning fall foliage. However, if you're looking to avoid crowds and get better deals on accommodation, the shoulder seasons of spring and late fall are also good times to visit.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
MBTA Subway (The 'T')
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority operates the fourth largest subway system in the U.S., known locally as the 'T'. It consists of four lines: Red, Orange, Blue, and Green. It's a convenient and efficient way to get around the city and surrounding suburbs.
Bus
The MBTA also operates a comprehensive bus network, which complements the subway system. Buses can take you to areas of Boston not served by the 'T'.
Commuter Rail
For longer distances, the MBTA operates a commuter rail service. This is ideal for day trips to places like Salem, Lowell, or Worcester.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Boston. They offer a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
Bike Share
Boston's bike share program, Bluebikes, offers a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around. There are hundreds of stations across the city, and the first 30 minutes of each ride are free.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to visit areas outside of Boston, but keep in mind that parking in the city can be expensive and difficult to find. Also, Boston's narrow, winding streets can be challenging for unfamiliar drivers.
Ferry
The MBTA operates several ferry routes, which can be a scenic and relaxing way to travel. Routes include service to the Boston Harbor Islands, as well as commuter service to places like Hingham and Hull.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Boston, although they can be more expensive than other options. They can be hailed on the street, picked up at taxi stands, or booked in advance.
Walk
Boston is a compact and walkable city, with many attractions located close together. Walking can often be the quickest and most enjoyable way to get around, especially in areas like the Freedom Trail and the Back Bay.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Boston, Massachusetts as a first time visitor
1
Boston is a walkable city, so pack comfortable shoes.
2
The city is known for its unpredictable weather, so pack layers and always carry an umbrella.
3
Boston is a historic city with many cobblestone streets, which can be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues.
4
The city is very bike-friendly, with many bike lanes and bike rental services available.
5
Boston's public transportation system, the 'T', is extensive and can get you almost anywhere in the city.
6
Taxis and rideshares are also readily available, but can be more expensive than public transportation.
7
Boston is a foodie city, known for its seafood, Italian food in the North End, and diverse international cuisine.
8
Tipping is customary in Boston. It's standard to tip 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and taxis.
9
Boston is a sports-loving city. If you're in town during baseball season, try to catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park.
10
The city is home to many colleges and universities, which can make certain areas very busy during the school year.
11
Boston is a safe city, but like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
12
The city's legal drinking age is 21, and it's strictly enforced.
13
Boston's sales tax is 6.25%, which is added to most goods and services.
14
The city is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).
15
Boston's peak tourist season is in the fall, when the leaves change color, and in the spring, during the Boston Marathon.
16
Boston's winters can be very cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing (32°F/0°C).
17
The city's summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 80s°F (27-32°C).
18
Boston has strict parking regulations, and parking can be expensive. Consider using public transportation instead.
19
Boston is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Explore beyond the downtown area.
20
Bostonians are known for their distinct accent. Don't be surprised if you hear 'pahk the cah in Hahvahd yahd'.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Sweater or Jacket
Pajamas
Comfortable walking shoes
Formal outfit for dining out
Swimwear (if planning to use the hotel pool)
Scarf, gloves, and hat (if traveling in winter)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash
Guidebook or map
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Laptop and charger (if necessary)
Headphones or earbuds
Camera and charger
Adapters or converters (if traveling from abroad)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket
Books or magazines for the flight
Umbrella
Laundry bag
Travel-size laundry detergent packets
Ziplock bags for toiletries
Weather Conditions
Boston, Massachusetts, is a city that experiences all four seasons, each with its own unique weather conditions. In the winter months, from December to February, Boston can get quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's not uncommon for the city to experience snowfall during this time, so if you're planning a visit, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Temperatures can range from 22°F to 41°F (-6°C to 5°C). Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual warming with temperatures ranging from 33°F to 73°F (1°C to 23°C). It can be a bit unpredictable, with some days feeling more like winter and others more like summer. It's a good idea to pack layers so you can adjust to the changing conditions. Summer, from June to August, is typically warm and sometimes humid. Temperatures can range from 60°F to 82°F (16°C to 28°C). It's a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, but don't forget to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Fall, from September to November, is a beautiful time to visit Boston. The temperatures range from 39°F to 76°F (4°C to 24°C) and the city's many trees change color, creating a stunning display. It can get chilly, especially in the evenings, so be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip so you can pack appropriately. Boston's weather can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for a range of conditions.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 4° / -6° | January is the coldest month in Boston, with snowfall common. Dress warmly and enjoy winter activities like ice skating. |
February | 4° / -5° | February is still quite cold, with snow and ice. It's a great time for indoor activities like visiting museums. |
March | 8° / -2° | March sees the start of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. You might still need a coat, but the snow starts to melt. |
April | 13° / 3° | April is a transition month, with both rain and some late snowfall. The city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit. |
May | 20° / 8° | May is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and its parks. |
June | 25° / 13° | June marks the start of summer, with long, sunny days. It's perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's waterfront. |
July | 28° / 17° | July is the hottest month in Boston. It's a great time to visit the beaches and enjoy outdoor concerts. |
August | 27° / 16° | August is still quite hot, but with more rainfall. It's a great time to visit the Boston Harbor Islands. |
September | 24° / 12° | September is a comfortable month, with less humidity. It's a great time for sightseeing and attending festivals. |
October | 17° / 7° | October sees the start of fall, with beautiful foliage. It's a great time to go on a fall foliage tour. |
November | 12° / 2° | November is a cooler month, with the first signs of winter. It's a great time to visit historic sites and enjoy Thanksgiving celebrations. |
December | 7° / -3° | December is a festive month, with Christmas lights and snow. It's a great time to enjoy holiday shopping and festive events. |
Did you know?
Places near by Boston, Massachusetts
Salem
Known for its historic witch trials, Salem offers a rich history and a variety of attractions.
Lexington and Concord
Historic towns known for their roles in the American Revolutionary War.
Newport
Famous for its historic mansions and beautiful beaches.
Providence
Rhode Island's capital city with a vibrant arts scene and beautiful architecture.
Portland
Maine's largest city known for its vibrant food scene and historic lighthouses.
Martha's Vineyard
A charming island known for its beautiful beaches and lighthouses.
White Mountains
A mountain range in New Hampshire known for its hiking, skiing, and beautiful fall foliage.
New York City
The most populous city in the U.S., known for its iconic landmarks like Times Square and Central Park.
Montreal
Canada's second largest city, known for its French influence and historic sites.
Washington D.C.
The capital of the U.S., known for its iconic landmarks and museums.
