With our rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and legacy of arts, culture, and education, Boston has something for everyone.
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Visiting Boston
Last updated:
Virtual Boston
There are many temporary COVID-19 related closings, but you can still explore your favorite Boston area attractions. Check out this growing list of online resources, from museums, galleries, arts organizations, performance venues, and more:
COVID-19 update
Visitors to the City of Boston should monitor the City's coronavirus (COVID-19) page for the latest information regarding COVID-19. Visitors to the City of Boston should also review the City's reopening website. Please keep these tips in mind if you plan to visit the City.
- Effective August 1, 2020, all visitors and returning residents entering Massachusetts must follow new travel orders issued by Governor Baker.
- Some tourist attractions may be closed due to COVID-19. We encourage you to reach out to specific sites to learn about how they are handling the situation. Many sites are offering virtual experiences. Any museum, tour, or cultural and historical facility that reopens is subject to the Commonwealth's Phase 3, Step 1 sector-specific guidance as well as the City of Boston's sector-specific guidance.
- On July 2, Governor Baker updated guidance for operators of lodging, which includes hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfast accommodations, and all other short-term residential rentals, including those arranged through online hosting platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO.
- On July 2, Governor Baker updated an order pertaining to limits on gathering sizes in the Commonwealth for Phase 3, Step 1. On July 10, the City of Boston issued additional guidance for indoor and events. In the City of Boston, the maximum allowable gathering size for an indoor event is 25 people and the maximum allowable gathering size for an outdoor event is 50 people. The City of Boston will consider outdoor events for 50-100 people on a case-by-case basis.
What to do
Contact: Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
Walking tours
There are a variety of free walks and trails throughout the City of Boston.
Museums and galleries
The City has a wealth of museums, with everything from the Museum of Fine Arts to the Old State House.
Shopping and dining
Boston offers world-class dining and shopping options as well as local, artisan, and ethnic favorites.
Theaters and venues
We have a number of places for residents and visitors to watch plays, films, and concerts.
Sports
With the recent success of Boston’s professional teams, there’s much to experience in the City of Champions.
Farmers markets
The Office of Food Access helps to oversee almost 30 farmers markets in Boston.
On a budget
Contact: Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
Boston's public art
Search Boston’s art collection, watch artist videos, access a map of public art installations across the City, and more!
Walk to the sea
This walk encompasses four centuries of Boston history. Mixing historical landmarks with Boston’s skyscrapers, this walk is truly one worth taking.
State House
Tours last about 30-45 minutes and include an overview of the history and architecture of the State Capitol.
Bunker Hill Monument
Climb the 294 steps up the famous monument for one of Boston’s best views.
Swan Boats
The Swan Boats paddle passengers around the Public Garden Lagoon for a 15-minute peaceful cruise.
View all events on a budget
There are many tours across the City. You can even visit the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship in the world.
Uncovering Boston's history
It’s no secret Boston is rich with history. From the American Revolution to the site of the very first public school, it’s a city with stories to tell.
Planning your trip
Contact: Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
Keep these dates and events in mind as they are usually busy times in Boston.
- December 31/January 1: First Night/Day
- March (mid-month): St. Patrick's Day Parade
- April (third Monday of the month): Boston Marathon
- June (beginning of the month): Pride Parade
- May (throughout the month): College graduation season
- June 29 - July 1: Harborfest
- End of August/Early September: Moving day, students return
- October (mid-end of month): Head of the Charles Regatta
- December: Holiday season
Boston maps
Contact: Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
We can't mail you any printed maps or guides, but these websites have some helpful maps.
BostonUSA
Find a number of interactive maps of the Boston area.
MassVacation
Find printable maps of Boston as well as the Greater Boston area.
Public Transit
Find your way around Boston's comprehensive public transit system.
To and from Logan Airport
Contact: Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
Bus service
The MBTA offers free Silver Line bus service from all airport terminals to South Station.
Ferry boat
The MBTA offers ferry-boat service from Hingham or Hull to the airport, weather permitting.
Logan Express
Massport offers an express bus service from Back Bay to Logan Airport.
Shuttles
Massport provides free shuttle-bus service between airline terminals and Airport Station on the MBTA’s Blue Line.
Taxis
Boston police regulate all taxis and pedi-cabs. Learn what you can expect from your ride.
Recommended Resources
Contact: Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
Get help before you plan your next visit to our great City.
GREATER BOSTON CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
The primary private sector marketing and visitor service organization.
HOTELS AND ACCOMMODATIONS
The Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau’s list of hotels.
MASSACHUSETTS OFFICE OF TRAVEL AND TOURISM
Dedicated to promoting Massachusetts as a leisure-travel destination.
Check out Visit Boston on Twitter
Get updates on events going on in the City.
Visit the Tourism Facebook page
We also put updates about events on our Facebook page.