Boston remains one of the most exciting cities to explore in the US, thanks to its history and renowned universities.
It may be considered a relatively expensive destination to visit, but if you follow these tips and see what you need to know before traveling to Boston, you can enjoy some of the best things to do in the city without breaking the bank. Here’s a great weekend schedule in Boston filled with free Massachusetts activities that stay fun.
Discover 15 things to do for free in Boston
Visit historic Faneuil Hall
Walk through the Great Hall and hear a tour guide talk about historic Faneuil Hall and its role as a marketplace and meeting place. To continue your tour of Boston’s historic markets and prepare for lunch, head to Quincy Market, where you can choose from dozens of food stalls. This is one of the best places to eat in Boston. Information: The Great Hall is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Tour of the Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library was built as a “temple of letters,” but it is also a temple of art and architecture. Free guided tours start at the main entrance, or you can pick up a brochure and wander the impressive frescoed corridors on your own. The library also hosts author talks, musical performances and other free events. The tour schedule is subject to change, so check online in advance. Guided tours last about one hour.
See politics in action at the Massachusetts Statehouse
Visit the Massachusetts State Capitol to learn about the state insect (the ladybug) and pay homage to the Sacred Fever that hangs in the chamber of the House of Representatives. Materials for self-guided tours are available at the information desk on the second floor. Free excursions can be booked in advance by phone.
Discover our collection of historical scientific instruments
Science and history buffs can enjoy the fascinating collection of historical scientific instruments. Located in the Harvard Science Center, it displays a selection of 20,000 objects from the university’s collection, some of which date back to the 15th century. Look for the geometric sector (military compass) designed by Galileo and clocks that show the evolution of modern timekeeping.
A walk on Boston Common
Stroll Boston Common, the oldest park in the United States. In the summer you can have a picnic or watch a free Shakespeare performance. In the winter, there are Christmas events, sledding down Flagstaff Hill and ice skating at Frog Pond. Tickets for skating at Frog Pond are based on height, making it a great winter activity for kids. It costs $8 if you bring your own skates, but it’s free for those under 1.48.
Tour Harvard University with a student
Students offer free historical tours of the Harvard courtyard, sharing their experiences of student life. One-hour guided tours begin at the Smith Campus Center. Register in advance to secure your spot on a student-led tour. If you can’t find a seat, download the Visit Harvard app, which has information about guided tours.
Explore Castle Island
Castle Island isn’t really an island; it’s a huge, green waterfront park with incredible views of the city skyline. The imposing Fort Independence, located on Castle Island, is open for exploration and offers free tours. Alternatively, you can relax on the beach, fish from the dock or dip your toes in the cool harbor waters.
Relax at the Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore Boston’s natural beauty at this 67-acre wildlife sanctuary managed by the Massachusetts Audubon Society. The wetlands, forests, and meadows at the Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary are home to 150 different species of birds, over 300 plants, and about 40 species of butterflies. Walk the 2-mile trail, stopping at the Nature Playground. If you need family activities, the kids will love running through the maze, playing the giant xylophone or digging in the dirt. But plan to leave your pet at home as pets are not allowed.
Walk along the Charles River
If you find a walk by the water relaxing, be sure to take the time to stroll along the Charles River. You’ll get great views of both Boston and its sister city Cambridge on this 5.5-mile ride. You will also be amazed by the parks designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Start at Kendall Pavilion and end at the Mass Avenue Bridge.
Admire the architecture
Boston has an abundance of colonial and neoclassical architecture. Faneuil Hall and the Museum of Fine Arts are excellent examples. But Boston also has significant modernist buildings. Visit MIT to see Frank Gehry’s Stata Building, Eero Saarinen’s Kresge Auditorium, and IM Pei’s Weisinger Building.
Relax in the National Garden
Although Boston has many beautiful parks and gardens, the garden is unique. It was the first botanical garden in the United States. With its benches, ponds, paths and fantastic selection of plants, it is designed to make you relax and enjoy the view.
Learn the story behind Glory
The movie Glory, starring Denzel Washington, tells the story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, a pioneering unit of black soldiers in the Civil War. Colonel Robert Gould Shaw led the men who fought bravely despite being outnumbered. Shaw and many of his men perished at Fort Wagner. Scenes from the movie were shot on Boston Common. There you will also find a bronze monument dedicated to Shaw and the 54th, by the sculptor August Saint-Gaudens.
Follow the path of freedom
Liberty Walk is the perfect “entrance” to Boston’s Revolutionary War era and one of the city’s top attractions. This 2.5-mile red brick trail passes 16 points that earned Boston the title of “Cradle of Liberty.” The National Park Service offers free audio tours and you can download a map. Many, but not all, points along the trail are free to enter.
Learn about African-American history in Boston through the Black Heritage Trail
The 1.6-mile Beacon Hill Black Heritage Trail explores the history of the abolitionist movement and the homes of important African American historical figures in Boston, ending at the Museum of African American History. You can download a guided tour card or join a guided tour from the National Park Service. Guided tours run during the summer months and last approximately 90 minutes. Book in advance through Eventbrite to secure your free place.
Visit the Bunker Hill Memorial
The distinctive obelisk marks the site of the decisive battle in June 1775 that changed the course of the Revolutionary War. Climb Bunker Hill Memorial’s 294 steps to the top for a spectacular panoramic view of the city, bay and sky. All you will be using is your energy.