Boston is home to 35 college and there are over 100 more in the surrounding area. No wonder it's known as America's College Town! If you're one of the many visitors coming to the Boston or Cambridge areas this spring for commencement, there's a lot to see and do besides watching your loved one get their diploma. It may not be a big city, but Boston definitely packs a punch when it comes to history and culture. If you're staying for just the weekend, it can be hard to figure out what to do with the little time you have after family outings and university activities. Whether you only have time for a quick meal or an entire day for sightseeing, here are our favorite things to do in Boston for graduation weekend.
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Explore Boston During Graduation Weekend With These 10 Fun Things To Do
1. Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile, red-lined route that leads you to 16 historically significant sites in Boston. You'll explore museums and meetinghouses, churches, and burying grounds, all while learning about the brave people who shaped the history of our nation. After all, the American Revolution began in Boston!
2. Fenway Park
Fenway Park has been home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912 and is the oldest ballpark in the MLB. Whether you're a Red Sox fan, a Yankees fan, or a baseball fan at all, it's hard not to enjoy the history and spirit of the stadium itself. Check the schedule because you might even be able to catch a game while you're visiting Boston!
3. Museum of Fine Arts
An afternoon isn't nearly enough time to enjoy all the beautiful masterpieces as the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. A two-day pass is available which is a great option if you have the time. Make sure your grad brings their student id for a discounted ticket! I don't think they'll mind if graduation was yesterday...
4. North End
Known for its Italians restaurants, Boston's North End is the perfect place to window shop and grab lunch. This neighborhood was settled in the 1630's and is actually the city's oldest residential community. Try to make time to see all 12 of its historical landmarks, and definitely grab a bite at Regina's Pizzeria. It's repeatedly been awarded the best pizza in Boston!
5. Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Faneuil Hall Marketplace consists of four buildings, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market. What is now home to over 100 shops and restaurants also holds a long and important history. In fact, it's where Jonathan Mayhew famously challenged the Sugar Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." This place does get crowded on weekends so try to visit during the week.
6. Boston Common
In the mid-1600's, the grounds of Boston Common used to be a cow pasture. It's come a long way since then. It's been a British camp, a popular place for public speeches and rallies, and is now the oldest public park in the country. After all the stress of commencement, a nice family picnic sounds nice, doesn't it?
7. Boston Public Gardens
America's first public garden is also a great place for some leisure time with family. A visit to the garden might be the perfect way for a new graduate to relax before entering the working world. Make sure they stop and smell the roses!
8. Samuel Adams Brewery
Beer and Boston are almost synonymous. Learn all about the history of Samuel Adams, the brewing process and of course, sample some tasty beers. The tour is free and only for guests 21 and over. It might be the perfect outing for your grad and their friends!
9. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Students enter for $5 so let your grad get the most out of their student discount while they still can! General admission is only $15 which is a very small price to pay for this spectacular indoor garden and art collection.
10. R.F. O'Sullivan & Son
Your graduate finished college and it's time for a celebratory drink. Only if they're 21, of course. Visit R.F. O'Sullivan & Son, a favorite among locals. It also has one of the best burgers in Boston for anyone who isn't of drinking age yet.
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This article was written by Lauren Gaw.