Boston, Massachusetts is rich in history, and home to the Freedom Trail and numerous historic landmarks such as the Paul Revere House and the Holocaust Memorial. Explore the city’s museums, symphony halls, and botanical gardens. Staying at a Boston vacation rental allows you to easily and conveniently access the most prominent local attractions. Whether you’re planning a springtime trip when the Boston Public Garden is in full bloom, or during winter to enjoy the many outdoor ice skating rinks, you can find plenty of interactive things to do for the entire family. When planning your vacation, consider these 10 things to do while in Boston.
1. Take in a Game at Fenway Park
Boston is known as one of the best cities for baseball fans, which is why seeing a Red Sox game is a must for your trip itinerary. Catch a home game during the baseball season or book a tour of the park in the off season to see Pesky’s Pole in right field or the Green Monster wall in left field, both named after former players. You and the family can also grab a bite to eat after visiting Fenway Park at the nearby Bleacher Bar or Sal’s Pizza.
2. Tour the City With Boston Segway
Sign up for an hour-long session with Boston Segway Tours to roll through Boston to see the landmarks. This Segway tour, complete with an introductory instructional session, leads you right past the Paul Revere House, the Boston Public Garden, and Boston Common. Opt for a Segway tour that takes you through the Freedom Trail, too, to make your adventure a history lesson as well.
3. Ride the Roller Coasters at Edaville Theme Park
For family-friendly fun near your Boston vacation rental, head over to one of the city’s biggest attractions — Edaville Theme Park. This theme park features family rides, kid-friendly coasters, and even interactive displays in Thomas Land and Dino Land. Stop in at one of the snack bars for a hot dog or nachos before taking in one of the musical performances in the on-site theaters.
4. Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardener’s Museum
Art enthusiasts flock to the Isabella Stewart Gardener’s Museum in Boston to see the expansive collection of Italian art. Beyond the masterpieces displayed on the walls of the museum, you can also browse the European sculptures, furniture, and photographs. Gardeners are in for a treat when touring the landscaped gardens, greenhouses, and glass atrium at the museum. When you need your fill of more art, travel just a few blocks to the east to tour the Museum of Fine Arts in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood.
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5. Catch a Performance by the Boston Symphony Orchestra
Hear the smooth sounds of classical music while admiring the architecture and acoustics at Boston’s renowned Symphony Hall. The Boston Symphony Orchestra puts on more than 250 shows each year, so you can get a ticket while traveling in any season. Opt for a performance by the symphony orchestra or see some of the national acts such as comedians and pop groups that play at the hall throughout the year. The Symphony Hall also offers tours of the facilities for groups during the day.
6. Step on Board the Spirit of Boston
Head to the Seaport District to see Boston while listening to the waves crash on the shore or dining on fresh seafood on board the Spirit of Boston. Spirit Cruises hosts water-filled adventures with dinner cruises that include stunning views, live entertainment, and dancing. Reserve a spot for the entire family or hop on board this dinner cruise for a date night before retreating back to your cozy vacation rental in Boston.
7. See Underwater Creatures at the New England Aquarium
Spend the day petting Atlantic rays, epaulette sharks, and cownose rays when visiting the New England Aquarium. This popular Boston attraction gives you and the kids a chance to see penguins, lobsters, hermit crabs, and sea stars up close and personal. Walk through the 200,000-gallon Caribbean coral reef exhibit that showcases over 1,000 marine animals, or watch as the seals play together at the aquarium’s Front Plaza.
8. Shop Away the Day at Assembly Row
When you need some retail therapy, you can find outlet malls and unique specialty shops within minutes from your vacation rental, such as the Outlets at Assembly Row or Prudential Center Mall with your favorite shops, including Ann Taylor and Legoland Toys. Tourists seeking souvenirs from Boston can head to the financial district which houses the 1630 Boston – Faneuil Hall Marketplace, complete with pop-up shops with vintage goods and authentic pieces of history.
9. Sample Brews at the Samuel Adams Brewery
Beer lovers can taste a little bit of heaven when touring the Samuel Adams Brewery, a staple of Boston. This brewery features tours that highlight the brewing process and instructional workshops for taste testing. The free tours include a stop in the beer garden where you can order your favorite brew. Stop in at the gift shop to bring home a souvenir or some of your favorite brews.
10. Scope Out the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
See costumed actors re-enact history when stepping inside the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. A tour of this museum offers you a lesson on Boston history, but the guides also solicit audience involvement to make the tour much more interactive. See the historic ships and admire the 21st-century garb on display before heading back to your Boston vacation rental. If hunger strikes after your tour, stop in for some fresh seafood at The Barking Crab or Italian fare at Sportello.
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