Boston is a city filled with history, culture, and entertainment, making it a popular travel destination for visitors from all over the world. However, the city can be expensive, and it may seem daunting to explore all the city has to offer while staying on a budget. Fortunately, there are plenty of free and affordable activities in Boston that can help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.
In this article, we will highlight some of the best free and affordable things to do in Boston, ranging from historical landmarks to museums and outdoor activities. With this guide, you'll be able to explore Boston without worrying about your wallet.
The Freedom Trail
Boston is a city with a rich history, and the Freedom Trail is an excellent way to explore some of the city's most iconic landmarks. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking trail that takes you through 16 historical sites, including the Massachusetts State House, the Paul Revere House, and the Old North Church. The trail is free to walk and offers a glimpse into Boston's revolutionary past.
If you're looking to save even more money, you can download a free audio guide to the Freedom Trail from the National Park Service website. This guide will provide you with a detailed history of each site on the trail, making it a great way to learn more about Boston's past while exploring the city.
The Boston Common
The Boston Common is a 50-acre park located in the heart of the city and is the oldest public park in the United States. The park is free to enter and offers a variety of activities, including walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground. The park is also home to several historical monuments, including the Soldiers and Sailors Monument and the Parkman Bandstand.
During the summer months, the Boston Common hosts a variety of free events, including concerts, movies, and fitness classes. Be sure to check the park's website for upcoming events, as there is always something happening in the Boston Common.
The USS Constitution Museum
The USS Constitution Museum is a free museum located in the Charlestown Navy Yard and is dedicated to the history of the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including interactive displays and historical artifacts, that provide visitors with a glimpse into life on board the ship.
The museum is open year-round, and admission is free, making it a great way to learn more about American history without spending a dime. The museum is also located near the USS Constitution itself, which is free to visit and offers guided tours.
The Institute of Contemporary Art
The Institute of Contemporary Art is a modern art museum located on the waterfront in the Seaport District. The museum features a variety of contemporary art exhibits and is free on Thursdays from 5 pm to 9 pm. The museum also offers free admission to visitors under the age of 18 and for all visitors on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Presidents' Day.
In addition to its art exhibits, the Institute of Contemporary Art offers a variety of free events, including talks, film screenings, and performances. Be sure to check the museum's website for upcoming events and exhibits.
The Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library is a free public library located in Copley Square and is the third-largest public library in the United States. The library features a variety of exhibits, including rare books and manuscripts, as well as a variety of free events, including author talks and workshops.
In addition to its exhibits and events, the Boston Public Library is also home to several reading rooms, including the Bates Hall Reading Room, which is a stunning architectural masterpiece that is free to visit.
The Arnold Arboretum
The Arnold Arboretum is a free 281-acre botanical garden located in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston. The arboretum features a variety of trees, shrubs, and plants from around the world, as well as several walking paths and trails. The arboretum is a great place to explore nature and get some fresh air, especially during the spring and fall when the trees are in bloom.
The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum is a museum located on the waterfront in the Seaport District that is dedicated to the Boston Tea Party, a defining moment in American history. The museum features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what it was like to be a participant in the Boston Tea Party, as well as a replica of one of the ships involved in the historic event.
While admission to the museum is not free, there are several ways to save money on tickets, including purchasing tickets in advance online and taking advantage of discounts offered by AAA and military personnel.
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is an art museum located in the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood of Boston and is known for its unique architecture and extensive art collection. The museum features a variety of art exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative art from around the world.
While admission to the museum is not free, visitors can save money on tickets by visiting on a Thursday evening when admission is just $5. The museum also offers free admission to visitors under the age of 18 and for all visitors on certain holidays, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Presidents' Day.
The Boston Harborwalk
The Boston Harborwalk is a free 43-mile public walkway that runs along the Boston Harbor and offers stunning views of the city skyline and the harbor. The walkway features several parks, beaches, and public art installations, as well as several restaurants and cafes.
The Boston Harborwalk is a great way to explore the city and get some exercise, and there are several guided walking tours available that can provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the harbor's history and importance to the city.
The Sam Adams Brewery Tour
The Sam Adams Brewery Tour is a free tour of the Samuel Adams brewery located in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston. The tour takes visitors through the brewing process and history of Samuel Adams beer and includes a tasting of several of the brewery's signature beers. While the tour is free, reservations are recommended, as it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. The tour is also only available to visitors over the age of 21, so be sure to bring a valid ID.
The Boston Children's Museum
The Boston Children's Museum is a hands-on museum located in the Fort Point neighborhood of Boston and is designed for children under the age of 10. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits, including a climbing structure, a construction zone, and a science playground.
While admission to the museum is not free, the museum offers several free admission days throughout the year, including on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and during certain school vacation weeks.
The Massachusetts State House
The Massachusetts State House is the state capitol building located in Beacon Hill and is a great example of early American architecture. The building is free to enter and offers guided tours that provide visitors with a detailed history of the building and the state's government.
Visitors can also explore the building's famous golden dome and the Hall of Flags, which features flags from each of the state's cities and towns.
The Boston Athenaeum
The Boston Athenaeum is a membership library located in Beacon Hill and is one of the oldest independent libraries in the United States. While membership to the library is not free, visitors can explore the library's stunning architecture and exhibits on certain days throughout the year.
The library also offers several free events and lectures, including author talks and book signings.
The Rose Kennedy Greenway
The Rose Kennedy Greenway is a free public park located in downtown Boston and features several gardens, fountains, and public art installations. The park is a great place to relax and take in the city's skyline, and there are several free events and activities that take place throughout the year. During the summer months, the park hosts several food trucks and outdoor markets, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat and explore the city.
The Boston Public Market
The Boston Public Market is a year-round indoor market located in the Haymarket neighborhood and features a variety of local vendors selling fresh produce, meat, cheese, and other specialty foods. The market is free to enter and is a great place to sample some of the city's local cuisine. In addition to its food vendors, the market also offers several free events and demonstrations, including cooking classes and workshops.
The Mapparium
The Mapparium is a unique exhibit located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston. The exhibit features a three-story, stained glass globe that visitors can walk through, providing a unique view of the world. The Mapparium is a one-of-a-kind experience and a must-see for anyone visiting Boston.
While admission to the Mapparium is not free, visitors can save money on tickets by purchasing them in advance online or by visiting during off-peak hours.
The Emerald Necklace
The Emerald Necklace is a 1,100-acre chain of parks located throughout Boston and is a great place to explore the city's natural beauty. The park features several walking paths, bike trails, and playgrounds, as well as several famous landmarks, including the Arnold Arboretum and the Jamaica Pond. The Emerald Necklace is free to explore and offers a variety of activities throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, guided walks, and fitness classes.
The Boston Public Art Walk
The Boston Public Art Walk is a free self-guided tour that takes visitors through the city's public art installations, including sculptures, murals, and fountains. The walk covers over three miles and takes visitors through some of Boston's most famous neighborhoods, including the North End, the Financial District, and the Back Bay. The Boston Public Art Walk is a great way to explore the city's art scene and is perfect for anyone interested in public art and street art.
The Boston Harbor Islands
The Boston Harbor Islands are a collection of 34 islands located in Boston Harbor and are a great place to explore the city's natural beauty. The islands feature several hiking trails, beaches, and historic landmarks, including Fort Warren on George's Island.
While some of the islands require a ferry ride and admission fee, several of the islands are free to explore, including Spectacle Island and Grape Island.
The Boston University Art Gallery
The Boston University Art Gallery is a free art museum located on the Boston University campus and features a variety of contemporary art exhibits. The museum is open year-round and is free to the public, making it a great way to explore Boston's art scene without spending a dime. The Boston University Art Gallery also offers a variety of free events and lectures throughout the year, including artist talks and panel discussions.
Boston is a city filled with free and affordable activities that can provide visitors with a unique and memorable experience. From historical landmarks to museums, outdoor activities, and public art installations, there is something for everyone in Boston, regardless of budget. By taking advantage of these free and affordable activities, visitors can explore the city's rich history and culture without breaking the bank.