Free Things To Do in Boston During The Summer
There are many free things to do in Boston that visitors should check out when in the city. To make the most of your trip prepare to do a lot of walking. Boston is the best city to explore on foot and requires a lot of it. From exploring Quincy Market in downtown- to getting to see your favorite Patriot players during training camp, there is so much to see, do, and eat while in this historical city. Read on for our favorite activities to do while in Boston that will cost you next to nothing!
Walk The Freedom Trail
If you’re looking for free things to do in Boston this summer, add walking the Freedom Trail to your list. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long path that runs throughout downtown Boston, Massachusetts. The trail passes by 16 locations that are highly significant to our U.S. history. Follow the cobblestone streets of Boston and enjoy seeing Faneuil Hall, The Old State House, the Bunker Hill Monument, The Old South Meeting House, and many more stops.
Take A Tour Of The Samuel Adams Brewery
While in the city, take a free tour of the Samuel Adams Brewery located in Jamaica Plain. The classic tour is approximately 1 hour. The first 30 minutes is spent learning about the ingredients in the beer and brewing process. The last 30 minutes is spent in the tasting room, sampling 3 different types of award-winning Samuel Adam craft beer. There is no charge to take the free tour but $2 donations are requested. That donation is given to charities that the Brewery supports.
Visit Lawn On D
The Lawn on D happens to be one of my favorite free things to do in Boston! It is Boston’s most innovative and vibrant seasonal outdoor venue in the heart of the Waterfront District in South Boston. It is the perfect place to relax, and enjoy the summer sun while on a lunch break and also the place to spend a fun summer night at. Corn hole, giant Jenga, and giant chess and checkers are some of the many games offered at Lawn on D. However, it’s the giant swings outfitted with solar-powered LED lights that keep people coming back especially at night when the swings light up. You might have to wait a bit to snatch up a free swing but it’s worth it.
Boston Public Library
Didn’t think a library would make it on the list of free things to do in Boston did ya? Well if you are surprised, make sure to visit this summer! This national historic landmark is in the heart of the city near Copley Square. It might be the best library in the country! Not only does it have everything you could want in a library, but the architecture sets this library apart. Make sure to stop by the breathtaking courtyard for some high tea and scones.
The Boston Public library is also a popular wedding venue. So don’t be surprised to see some areas closed off for a private ceremony. Once you visit, you’ll understand why couples would shell out big bucks to spend their big days here.
Faneuil Hall Market Place
Faneuil Hall is one stop on the Freedom Walking Trail that you have to stop and explore! This market place is the site of several speeches made by Samuel Adams, James Otis, and many others. Quincy Market located in Faneuil Hall is the source of food for Bostonians. It is a popular and busy lunchtime spot for downtown workers. There are also many stalls and shops that sells trinkets, gifts, and clothing. Just outside you will find entreating street performances where you can clap and cheer as artists perform amazing skits that normally include crowd participation. Faneuil Hall is the perfect place to spend a summer day in the city.
Arnold Arboretum
The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is an arboretum located in Jamaica Plain. Part of Olmsted’s famous Emerald Necklace, Arnold Arboretum is America’s oldest public arboretum that has 265 beautiful acres of trees, shrubs, and vines. This is a trip not to be missed when in Boston. You can spend all day walking the paths and seeing flora from around the world. It’s a beautiful place for a walk, a picnic, a nap. A great contrast to the buzz of the city! Make sure to grab a map and plan your walk ahead of time.
Patriot’s Training Camp
Our free things to do in Boston list continues with a trip to Gillette Stadium. Training camp practices are free and open to the public. Ninety patriots players report to Gillette Stadium for daily practice sessions under the eye of their coaches. Join thousands of Patriots fans for an opportunity to enjoy football before the regular season begins.
Christian Science Plaza
The Christian Science Plaza is a 13.5-acre site on the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Huntington Avenue in the Fenway neighborhood of Boston. It is a popular tourist attraction. The center is owned by the Church of Christ, Scientist. The complex and most of its landscape has been designated as a Boston landmark back in 2011. Visit the world-famous, three-story, stained-glass globe at the plaza located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library. Relax amid trees, lawn, flowers, and magnificent architecture while visiting.
Boston Esplanade
The Charles River Esplanade of Boston is a state-owned park situated in the Back Bay area of the city, on the south bank of the Charles River Basin. The Esplanade went through a major expansion in 1928 to 1936. A lagoon, boat landings, plazas, playgrounds, and the Hatch Memorial Shell, where the Boston Pops perform, are just a few park renovations that keep visitors coming back.
