Whether it is your first or fortieth time visiting Boston, we’ve gathered the ultimate Summer bucket list for every visitor and local to explore!
Go to a Game
One of the most iconic locations in Boston is Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball – so a trip to a Red Sox Game is a must-do during Boston’s summer. Head to the Fenway and Kenmore neighborhood before the game to grab a bite or a drink at one of the area’s local restaurants. We recommend getting a behind the scene view of the stadium at Bleacher Bar or showing off your skills at the batting cages at Game On.
Not much of a baseball fan? Then we encourage you to head to Gillette Stadium to catch a New England Revolution match, travel to Quincy to cheer on the Free Jacks, or watch a sport of your choosing at one of Boston’s top sports bars.
Explore Boston by Boat
One of the most unique and amazing things about Boston is the access to beautiful water views, activities, and boat tours. Take a sunset cruise in the harbor, gather friends and have some fun with city views, sightsee, or paddle down the Charles River, glide through the Boston Common on a swan boat, or explore the city by land or by sea with an iconic Boston Duck Tour.
Have a Drink with a View
During the summer months, there's nothing more refreshing than a delicious drink or bite to eat in the sun. Here in Boston, visitors can even enjoy these moments with one-of-a-kind views. Head to the Lookout Rooftop at the Envoy Hotel for one of the best views of the Boston skyline, have a drink while poolside at Lifted Restaurant at the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport, or choose from some of Boston’s other rooftop bar and restaurant options.
Enjoy Live Music Outdoors
Boston’s music scene has never been so hot, and the summer is no different. With several outdoor music venues and concerts, there is something for the ears of every music lover. Head to the Seaport and grab tickets to a show at the Leader Bank Pavilion or check out the Fenway Concert Series for the summer. Make sure to also check out the Stage at Suffolk Downs, a seasonal outdoor general admission concert venue in East Boston. Don’t miss out on local music festivals and live music at some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and beer gardens.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood
If there is one thing New England is known for, it's our seafood. Try a lobster roll at city favorites such as Yankee Lobster or Neptune Oyster, grab a cup of chowder at the Union Oyster House or The Banks Fish House, or split a couple of dozen oysters at Row 34, The Hourly Oyster House, or Reelhouse Oyster.
Looking for fried seafood options? We recommend heading to the Seaport to visit the Barking Crab or Newbury Street to grab a bite at Little Whale Oyster Bar.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Along with being a bustling city, Boston is filled with fun ways to enjoy the great outdoors.
Once named America’s Walking City, there are several walking tours spanning interests such as the Revolutionary War, Black History, science and innovation, and even pizza! Want to enjoy something a bit more serene? Take a walk along the Charles River Esplanade or visit one of the sites along the Emerald Necklace, a 1,100-acre chain of parks linked by parkways and waterways in Boston and Brookline. We also recommend heading to South Boston and walking around Castle Island or sunbathing at one of the Boston area’s best beaches.
Take your explorations outside the land limits and visit the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Parks, just minutes from the city. Grab a ticket on a park ferry and head to Islands, such as Spectacle Island or George’s Island, for some outdoor fun or relaxation.
Celebrate American History
There are not many places in the United States that are as filled with historic moments in American History then the city of Boston, making this a must during your trip here!
Take a walk along the Freedom Trail, stop in for a tour of the Museum of African American History, head to Charlestown and visit the USS Constitution Museum, or choose from many other famous landmarks in the city.
Here during the Fourth of July? Then check out Boston’s Harborfest, a weekend-long itinerary of events, concerts, and more to celebrate Independence Day.
Want a full itinerary for a historic-filled day? Then check out this fully packed itinerary!
Grab a Pint at a Pop-up Beer Garden
With the city known as a craft beer haven and the sunny summer weather in full swing, visiting one of Boston’s beer, wine, or cocktail gardens is a must-do during your visit. Check out one of the many pop-us in some of the coolest locations in the city, or make your way to one of Boston’s widely known breweries – complete with indoor and outdoor space, dining options, games, events, and more.
Immerse Yourself in Boston’s Art Scene
Along with visiting some of Boston’s best art museums, there are unique ways to enjoy the art scene during the summer. Take a boat across the river to the ICA Watershed, attend a free night or a concert in one of the museum courtyards, visit the SoWa Art + Design District and explore local galleries, or walk through Boston’s outdoor art scene.
Enjoy Boston’s Array of Culinary Options
The city is filled with not only activities to fill your itinerary but a wide array of culinary options to fill your plate. From dim sum and dumplings in Boston’s Chinatown neighborhood to fresh seafood options with water views and Italian dishes in the North End, there is something for everyone. Check out some of Boston’s food-focused summer events, festivals, and feasts while in town as well!