Are you ready for an urban adventure filled with history, culture, and excitement?
Explore our curated guide to the most fun things to do in Boston for young adults, where each corner of the city reveals a new experience waiting to be discovered.
From exploring historic landmarks and indulging in local cuisine to enjoying the vibrant nightlife and outdoor activities, Boston promises an unforgettable journey.
Discover a city where centuries-old history blends seamlessly with modern-day charm, creating a vibrant backdrop for your adventures.
Join us as we unveil the top spots for sightseeing, dining, and entertainment that make Boston a must-visit destination for young adults.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Boston beckons with its unique allure.
Dive in and uncover the perfect activities to make your visit to Boston truly memorable.
Why You Should Visit Boston
The capital of Massachusetts, Boston, is one of the oldest cities in the United States and a hub for education, culture, and innovation.
Steeped in history, Boston played a significant role in the American Revolution and is home to many iconic landmarks such as the Freedom Trail and Faneuil Hall.
But beyond its rich history, Boston has so much more to offer. From world-renowned universities like Harvard and MIT to vibrant neighbourhoods filled with diverse cuisines, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.
Boston also boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous museums and galleries showcasing everything from classical art to contemporary works. And let’s remember the sports culture, with passionate fans cheering on teams like the Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins.
Why Boston is Perfect for Young Adults
The lively and energetic atmosphere of Boston makes it an ideal destination for young adults.
The city is home to a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and concert halls showcasing both local and international talent.
For those who love the outdoors, Boston also boasts plenty of green spaces where you can go for a run, have a picnic, or relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
And let’s not forget about the food scene – from traditional New England fare to international cuisines, there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from.
Boston also has a vibrant nightlife that caters to all tastes, whether you prefer a low-key pub or a high-energy dance club.
With its diverse range of activities and attractions, Boston is the perfect city for young adults to explore, discover and create unforgettable memories.
What Makes These Boston Experiences Unique
The best part about exploring Boston is that each experience is unique in its own way.
While some activities may be popular tourist spots, there are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered by adventurous travellers.
For example, while visiting the famous Freedom Trail and walking through the historic sites of the American Revolution may be a must-do for many visitors, taking a leisurely stroll along the Charles River Esplanade offers a peaceful and picturesque view of the city skyline.
While indulging in a classic lobster roll at Quincy Market may satisfy your cravings for local cuisine, trying out different food trucks at SoWa Open Market gives you a taste of Boston’s diverse food culture.
No matter what your interests are, Boston has something unique and special to offer. It’s a city that encourages exploration and discovery, making it the perfect destination for young adults looking for new adventures.
Fun Things To Do in Boston for Young Adults
The following are some of the best things to do in Boston for young adults:
- Boston Common
- Newbury Street
- Fenway Park
- Harvard Yard
- Visit Salem
- Cape Cod
- Faneuil Hall
- Quincy Market
- North End
- Paul Revere House
- China town
- Museum of Science
- Boston Metro
- Charles River
- Duck Tours
- Bunker Hill
- USS Constitution Museum
- TD Garden
- Long Wharf
- Hop On Hop Off Tours
- Ghost Tours
- Harbor Cruise
- New England Aquarium
- Boston Tea Party Museum
- Local Food
- Beacon Hill
- Acorn Street
- Golden Dome State House
- Cheers Bar
- Boston South End (“Southie”)
- Castle Island
As you can see, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Boston for young adults.
From iconic landmarks and historic sites to trendy neighbourhoods and outdoor activities, Boston offers a diverse range of experiences that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.
1 Boston Common
The oldest public park in America, Boston Common, is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. This 50-acre green space is perfect for a stroll or a picnic with friends.
But there’s more to do at Boston Common than just enjoying the fresh air. Visit the iconic Frog Pond and take a ride on the carousel, or check out the seasonal events that take place throughout the year, from ice skating in winter to outdoor movie screenings in summer.
2 Newbury Street
For a taste of high-end fashion and luxury shopping, head to Newbury Street. This bustling street is lined with designer boutiques, trendy restaurants, and chic cafes.
But even if you’re not in the mood to splurge, Newbury Street is still worth a visit for its charming brownstone buildings and lively atmosphere.
3 Fenway Park
The oldest baseball park in Major League Baseball, Fenway Park is a must-visit for sports fans.
Take a tour of the stadium or catch a game to experience the electric atmosphere when the Red Sox are playing.
And if you’re not a baseball fan, Fenway Park also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
4 Harvard Yard
The oldest part of Harvard University, Harvard Yard, is a historic and picturesque area that is open to the public for self-guided tours.
Marvel at the stunning architecture and soak in the prestigious atmosphere of one of the world’s top universities.
Also, don’t forget to take a photo with the iconic John Harvard statue – but be aware that rubbing his foot for good luck is a tourist tradition and may cause damage!
5 Visit Salem
For a change of pace, take a day trip to the charming town of Salem, just 30 minutes away from Boston.
Known for its infamous history with witch trials in the 1690s, Salem offers an interesting mix of museums, historic sites, and spooky attractions that will appeal to young adults.
It also offers a variety of unique shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
6 Cape Cod
Escape the city for a day and head to Cape Cod, a popular summer destination just an hour and a half drive from Boston.
Relax on the beach, go whale watching, or explore the quaint towns filled with charming shops and seafood restaurants.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Cape Cod has something for everyone.
7 Faneuil Hall
The heart of downtown Boston, Faneuil Hall, is a historic marketplace that has been in operation since 1742.
Today, it’s home to a variety of street performers, food vendors, and shops, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and do some shopping while taking in the lively atmosphere.
8 Quincy Market
The adjacent building to Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, is a popular spot for foodies.
With over 35 vendors serving up a variety of cuisines, from traditional New England fare to international dishes, there’s something here for everyone.
Plus, the lively atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy a meal or snack.
9 North End
Known as Boston’s “Little Italy,” the North End is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in the city.
Explore the narrow cobblestone streets and try out different pasta dishes, cannolis, and other delicious treats.
And if you visit during the summer, don’t miss out on the Saint Anthony’s Feast, one of the biggest Italian street festivals in America.
10 Paul Revere House
Step back in time and visit the home of American patriot Paul Revere.
This small house is now a museum where you can learn about his role in the American Revolution and see artefacts from that period.
Plus, it’s located in the North End, so you can easily combine this stop with a food tour of the neighbourhood.
11 Chinatown
Immerse yourself in Asian culture by exploring Boston’s vibrant Chinatown.
This neighbourhood offers a wide range of delicious food options, as well as unique shops and markets where you can find everything from traditional Chinese herbs to affordable souvenirs.
Plus, be sure to check out the beautiful Chinatown Gate – it’s a great spot for photos!
12 Museum of Science
For science enthusiasts, the Museum of Science is a must-visit.
With interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and live presentations, this museum has something for all ages.
And don’t miss out on the butterfly garden or the lightning show – they’re both popular attractions at the museum.
13 Boston Metro System
Save money and explore the city like a local by taking the subway, also known as the “T.”
With five different lines covering the city, it’s easy to get around and visit all of these top attractions.
Plus, you’ll get a chance to experience Boston’s unique underground art scene – many stations feature colourful and creative murals.
14 Charles River
The Charles River offers a beautiful and peaceful escape from the city.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the river, or relax on one of the many benches along the shore.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided tour to learn more about the history and wildlife of the area.
15 Duck Tours
For a fun and unique way to see the city, hop on a duck tour!
These amphibious vehicles will take you on a land and water tour of Boston, giving you an up-close look at popular landmarks such as the Prudential Tower and Bunker Hill.
Plus, the entertaining guides make this tour both informative and enjoyable.
Make sure to pack a camera – you’ll want to capture the iconic moment when the duck boat dives into the Charles River!
16 Bunker Hill
The site of the first major battle in the American Revolution, Bunker Hill, offers a glimpse into our nation’s history.
Climb the 294 steps to the top of the Bunker Hill Monument for stunning views of Boston and its surrounding areas.
And while you’re there, take advantage of exploring the nearby USS Constitution Museum and Naval Shipyard.
17 USS Constitution Museum
The oldest commissioned warship in the world, the USS Constitution is a must-see for history buffs.
Please take a tour of this iconic ship and learn about its role in defending our country.
And if you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of her setting sail on one of her annual “turnaround” cruises.
18 TD Garden
This is a must-visit for sports fans – TD Garden is the home of the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins.
If you can, catch a game during your visit or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the arena and see where some of your favourite athletes train.
It also hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule when planning your trip.
19 Long Wharf
The perfect place to take in the beautiful Boston skyline, Long Wharf is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Stroll along the waterfront, grab dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants, or hop on a ferry for a scenic ride across the harbour.
And if you’re visiting during the summer, check out the free concerts and movies hosted on the pier.
20 Hop On Hop Off Tours
The best way to see all of these top attractions and more is by taking a hop-on on-hop-off tour.
These buses allow you to explore the city at your own pace, stopping at major landmarks and providing informative commentary along the way.
With multiple routes to choose from, you can customize your sightseeing experience based on your interests.
From historic sites to cultural neighbourhoods, these tours cover it all. So sit back, relax, and let someone else do the driving while you take in the beauty and charm of Boston.
21 Ghost Tours
The streets of Boston are filled with history and, some say, ghosts.
For a unique and spooky experience, take a ghost tour and learn about the haunted past of this city.
Visit locations believed to be haunted and hear chilling stories from costumed guides – just be prepared for some surprises along the way.
22 Harbor Cruise
The Boston Harbor is a picturesque and iconic part of the city.
Take a harbour cruise and get an up-close look at famous landmarks such as the Bunker Hill Monument, USS Constitution, and Charlestown Navy Yard.
You can also choose to take a sunset or dinner cruise for a more romantic experience on the water.
23 New England Aquarium
For animal lovers, the New England Aquarium is a must-visit.
With over 800 different species, including penguins, sea lions, and sharks, this aquarium offers an immersive experience for all ages.
You can even touch stingrays in the interactive touch tank or attend one of their many educational programs and shows.
24 Boston Tea Party Museum
The Boston Tea Party was a key event in the American Revolution, and you can relive it at the Boston Tea Party Museum.
Take part in an interactive tour where you’ll dress up as a colonial and throw tea into the harbour, just like the original protestors did.
You’ll also learn about the history of this important event and its impact on shaping our nation.
25 Local Food
It would only be a trip to Boston if you tried some of the local specialities.
Indulge in fresh seafood such as lobster rolls and clam chowder, or try traditional dishes like baked beans and Boston cream pie.
And don’t forget to visit the North End neighbourhood, also known as “Little Italy,” for some delicious Italian cuisine.
26 Beacon Hill
The charming and historic Beacon Hill neighbourhood is a must-see for architecture and history enthusiasts.
Take a walk through the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful Federal-style homes and gas-lit lanterns.
You can also visit the nearby Massachusetts State House, which offers free tours to learn about its history and see the iconic golden dome.
27 Acorn Street
It may be one of the most photographed streets in Boston, and for good reason.
Acorn Street is a picturesque cobblestone street lined with charming brick homes and flower boxes.
Make sure to snap some photos while you’re there, but be mindful of the residents who call this street home.
27 Golden Dome State House
The golden dome of the Massachusetts State House is a well-known symbol of Boston.
Take a free tour and learn about the history of this iconic building, and take advantage of seeing the unique artefacts displayed in the Hall of Flags.
You can also climb to the top of the dome for stunning views of the city.
29 Cheers Bar
The iconic “Cheers” bar, made famous by the TV show of the same name, is a popular spot for tourists.
Stop in for a drink and take a photo with the Cheers sign outside – but be prepared for long lines and inflated prices.
For an authentic Boston experience, try one of the many other local pubs and bars scattered throughout the city.
30 Boston South End (“Southie”)
It’s known for its colourful row houses, trendy restaurants, and bustling bar scene.
Take a walk through this lively neighbourhood and try the famous Southie speciality – an “egg-in-the-hole” breakfast sandwich.
You can also visit the nearby SoWa Market on Sundays for some unique shopping and delicious food truck options.
