Last updated March 2024 ■
Words by Georgie Ashworth
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Are you stuck in a bit of rut planning things to do in Boston for a weekend and need some help planning the best things to do in Boston? Then we are here to help. Boston is a city rich in history, culture, and attractions. Whether you're into history, consider yourself a foodie, are a nature enthusiast, or an art lover, there's something for everyone in Boston.
We have carefully curated list of must-do activities to make the most of your weekends in Boston.
The Freedom Trail is one of the best things to do in Boston. If you live in the city, you must do this at least once!
The trail is a 4.0 km path that winds through downtown Boston, linking 16 significant historic sites related to the American Revolution. You’ll start in Boston Common (a 5 min drive from The Bon) which is the oldest public park in the US. Your next stop will be the Massachusetts State House adjacent to the Common, this is the state capitol building and its striking gold dome is an iconic Boston landmark. The trail takes in many other iconic and historic areas of the city including Park Street Church, Old Corner Bookstore, Boston Massacre Site, Faneuil Hall, and Copps Hill Burial Ground.
You can take the tour at whatever pace suits you and your friends, so you can make sure you stop for a bite to eat and grab a coffee as you are going. This is best enjoyed in Spring or Fall when the city is looking at its most beautiful – in our opinion!
Our closest neighbour to The Bon – the iconic Fenway Park! Ask anyone about stuff to do in Boston and they will mention Fenway Park.
This is one of the oldest and most iconic baseball stadiums in the United States. While it primarily serves as the home ballpark for the Boston Red Sox, it also offers tours for visitors who want to explore its history and behind-the-scenes areas. When you join a tour you’ll learn about the history of the club and its significance in the world of baseball. You will have a guided tour of the stadium including the Green Monster, if you time your trip right, you might even haver the opportunity to touch the grass and visit the field itself, which really in an awe-inspiring treat for any baseball fan.
No tour or trip is complete without some interactive exhibits and a gift shop – so far not shopping fans, you will be able to get some goodies at the end of your tour. This is a fun weekend activity at anytime of year and promises a memorable experience
Boston is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, and food markets are one of the best ways of exploring this. For many, a walk around the food markets is one of the best things to do in Boston, at any time of the year! Our favourites include -
1. Boston Public Market: Just an 8 minute cab from The Bon. Located in the heart of the city near the Haymarket area, Boston Public Market is a year-round indoor market of over 35 vendors offering locally sourced and artisanal products. You’ll find a variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, cheese, and specialty items, perfect for restocking for a fancy weekend of food.
2. Faneuil Hall Marketplace: A 9 minute cab from The Bon, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a historic market complex in downtown Boston that includes Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market. Quincy Market is famous for its food stalls with a wide range of international cuisine, New England specialties, and grab-and-go options.
3. Haymarket: Haymarket is an outdoor market near Faneuil Hall. You'll find vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and other goods at amazingly good value. This is a really fun bustling spot, and its lots of fun especially on weekends, with a lively atmosphere with vendors calling out their deals. A great spot to pick up delicious seasonal produce.
4. SoWa Open Market: An 11 minute cab from The Bon. Visit SoWa in the South End neighborhood and is open from May through October. SoWa Open Market is the biggest food market in Boston and hosts a mix of local artisans, food trucks, and specialty food vendors, offering everything from handmade crafts to gourmet eats. A delicious day out if you ask us!
5. Copley Square Farmers Market: A 20 minute walk from The Bon is this seasonal market (open from May to November). This is one of the largest and oldest markets in Boston. It offers a wide selection of fresh produce, baked goods, and specialty foods from local producers.
We guarantee you a lovely time at any of these markets, your stomachs will also thank us!
If you are struggling to find things to do on the weekend in Boston then turn to Boston’s art scene. There are so many art galleries with a diverse style, from contemporary pieces to classical masterpieces in the city. This is perfect for a rainy or cold day in Boston -
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA): This is just 10 minutes walk from The Bon. The MFA is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The extensive collection has over 450,000 works. From paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photographs, textiles, and decorative arts spanning thousands of years and cultures.
Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston (ICA): An 11 min cab from The Bon. The ICA is a contemporary art museum in a picture-perfect spot, on Boston's waterfront. Visit the rotating exhibitions of contemporary art in various mediums. From painting, sculpture, photography, video, and performance art.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: Just a 15 minute walk from The Bon. This is a alternative museum which is perfect for a different day out. Visit the Venetian-style palazzo that houses Isabella Stewart Gardner's personal art collection. View her collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, textiles, and decorative arts from various cultures and time periods.
Panopticon Gallery: Is just round the corner from The Bon. This photography gallery specializes in contemporary and vintage fine art photography. It features exhibitions of both established and emerging photographers. Keep an eye out for special events and viewing evenings for another alterative date night.
Boston Sculptors Gallery: a 10 minute cab from The Bon. This cooperative gallery in Boston's South End focuses exclusively on contemporary sculpture. You will be able to view the work of the members artists as well as guest artists, all showcasing a diverse array of styles. A really fun and interactive weekend activity.
Whatever art style and medium you are interested in, you're sure to find something to inspire you in Boston's art scene.
This is a bustling and vibrant neighborhood in Cambridge, just across the Charles River from Boston, 10 minutes from The Bon. The Square is the home to Harvard University and is a buzzing area with a mix of historic sites, institutions, shops, restaurants, and attractions, plenty of stuff to do on a weekend in Boston.
The best things to do
1) Make sure you take a stroll through Harvard Yard, the historic heart of Harvard University. You can visit landmarks such as Memorial Church, the John Harvard Statue, and Widener Library. Guided tours of the campus are also available.
2) Visit the bookstores There are an abundance of bookstores. Don't miss iconic spots like Harvard Book Store, which hosts author events and signings, as well as The Coop, a large bookstore offering a wide selection of books, gifts, and Harvard merchandise
3) Get some refreshments and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea at one of Harvard Square's many coffee shops and cafés with lots of bits to eat. Whether you prefer a cozy atmosphere or outdoor seating for people-watching, you'll find plenty of options to suit your taste.
4) Catch a live performance at venues like Club Passim, a renowned folk music club, or The Sinclair, which hosts a variety of musical acts. Check the event calendars for upcoming live music, comedy, and other performances.
5) Relax in the open green space of Harvard Square Park, a popular spot for picnics, outdoor events, and gatherings. During warmer months, you might find street performers entertaining passers-by
6) Learn about the history of Harvard Square by exploring sites like the Old Cambridge Burying Ground, the site of the original village settlement, and the Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site.
Whether you're interested in history, art, food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Harvard Square.
Boston in spring and summer is amazing. There are so many outdoor spaces that are perfect for relaxing and unwinding in across Boston. Our favorite places to chill outdoors in Boston on the weekend include -
1. Boston Common and Public Garden: Boston Common, with ample green space for picnics, leisurely strolls, and people-watching. You can also ride the iconic Swan Boats in the Public Garden if you are feeling adventurous.
2. Esplanade along the Charles River: The Esplanade is a pretty park on the banks of the main Charles River. Chill out on the green lawns, and enjoy the picturesque views of the Boston skyline. It's a a great spot for picnics, jogging, and outdoor concerts in summer - keep an eye on the events calendar.
3. Arnold Arboretum: Located in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood, the Arnold Arboretum is a huge 281-acre botExanical garden, managed by Harvard University. If you visit you'll be able to see the diverse collection of shrubs, and plants from around the world.
4. Castle Island: Castle Island waterfront park has many walking paths, grassy areas, and views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline. Chill out on the beach, take a walk along the waterfront, or enjoy a picnic with friends.
5. Boston Harbor Islands: Just a short ferry from downtown Boston, Harbor Islands offer opportunities for hiking, picnicking, swimming, and wildlife watching. Spectacle Island and Georges Island are popular places to visit with scenic trails and historic importance.
6. Rose Kennedy Greenway: This linear park runs through the heart of downtown Boston, connecting several neighborhoods with landscaped gardens and public art installations. Take some time for a walk, a picnic, or simply relax on a bench and enjoy the urban greenery.
7. Victory gardens : Located near Fenway Park and The Bon, studio apartments in Boston. the Fenway Victory Gardens is the oldest continuously operating Victory Garden in the United States. It's a peaceful oasis within the city, featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and benches where you can sit and enjoy nature.
So what are you waiting for?
So, step in and make yourself at home. Let us worry about the rest. We’re here to make life a little less complicated and help you at every stage of your journey. Check out our available apartments at The Bon and at The Guild.
We are looking forward to welcoming you home.
Need more inspo?
If you are still thinking you are going to be left twiddling your thumbs this weekend, then take a look at our other blogs that might give you some inspiration of what to do in Boston this weekend....
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