Things to do in Boston

Why go to Boston

• Freedom Trail

  A 2.5-mile red-brick path linking 16 revolutionary-era sites including Paul Revere's House and Bunker Hill Monument, mostly free.

• Fenway Park

  The oldest MLB ballpark in America, dripping in Red Sox lore and impossible to skip for any sports fan.

• Museum of Fine Arts

  One of the largest art museums in the US, housing Egyptian mummies, Monets, and John Singer Sargent murals under one magnificent roof.

• Harvard & MIT Campuses

  Wander two of the world's most famous universities, their free museums, and the electric energy of Cambridge's academic heartland.

• Boston Harbor Islands State Park

  Ferry out to island forts, Civil War-era batteries, and sweeping harbor views that most tourists never discover.

Good to know in Boston

• Use the MBTA CharlieCard for discounted subway and bus fares ($2.40/ride vs $2.90 with cash); a 7-day LinkPass at $22.50 is a steal if you're riding more than 5 days.
• Tipping is standard in Boston: 18-20% at sit-down restaurants, $1-2/drink at bars, and $1-2/bag for hotel porters.
• Boston tap water is some of the cleanest in the US, sourced from the Quabbin Reservoir, drink it freely and skip buying bottled water.
• The Museum of Fine Arts offers free admission every Wednesday after 3 PM for Massachusetts residents, and Boston Public Library is always free to all visitors.

Trip essentials