Visit Boston

Boston is one of America’s oldest cities, with a rich economic and social history. What began as a homesteading community eventually evolved into a center for social and political change. Boston has since become the economic and cultural hub of New England. As the region’s hub, Boston is home to many institutions of higher education, some of the world’s finest inpatient hospitals, and numerous cultural and professional sports organizations. Boston-based jobs are primarily within the finance, health care, educational, and service areas.

Free (and almost free) things to do in Boston

Take a Walk to the Sea
Boston's Walk to the Sea encompasses four centuries of Boston history. Mixing historical landmarks with Boston's skyscrapers, this walk is truly one worth taking. The Walk from summit to sea, spanning one mile and descending a hundred feet, brings that history to life.

Self-guided iPod Tours
Let your iPod be your tour guide in these FREE audio tours of Boston. Discover the hidden stories of Boston and meet interesting locals along the way.

Tour the State House
Tours last approximately 30-45 minutes and include an overview of the history and architecture of the State Capitol.
Hours: Weekdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed on weekends and holidays.
Admission: Free

Climb Bunker Hill Monument
Climb the 294 steps to the top of the Monument for great views of Boston.
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monument closes to climbing at 4:30 p.m.
Admission: Free

Ride the Swan Boats
The Swan Boats driver paddles passengers around the Public Garden Lagoon for a 15 minute peaceful cruise.
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., June through Labor Day.
Admission: Adults $2.75 Children $1.50 (age 2 to 15 years) Seniors $2.00

Walk the Freedom Trail
The Trail, marked by a red line, takes the visitor to 16 historical sites and covers two and a half centuries of America's most significant past. You can take a self-guided tour or one of the many tours available through the National Park Service.

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts
With approximately 450,000 objects in the collection, there's always something new on view.
No general admission fee required. Every Wednesday, 4 p.m.-9:45 p.m.

Tour the USS Constitution
USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world.
Hours: Tues-Sun, 10 a.m.-5:50 p.m. Tours every 30 minutes, last tour starts at 4:30 p.m.
Admission: Free Guided tours.

See a Movie or Concert at the Hatch Shell
The Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade features free outdoor events throughout the summer, including Boston Pops Concerts, 4th of July fireworks, movies and concerts.

Visit the Museum of African American History
The Museum of African American History is dedicated to preserving, conserving and accurately interpreting the contributions of African Americans in New England from the colonial period through the 19th century.
Admission: $1 after 5 p.m. on Fridays.

Tour the Library
Free tours of the nation's first public library highlight the architecture of Charles Follen McKim and Philip Johnson, as well as the many works of famed sculptors and painters.

Check Out the Street Performers at Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Experience a festival every day! Faneuil Hall Marketplace features jugglers, clowns, magicians, mimes and musicians.

Visit The Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston
Enjoy the stimulation of contemporary culture and the excitement of a revitalized waterfront area. No general admission fee required. Every Thursday, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.

Learn more about these and other options for exciting Boston entertainment.