the tour of boston

Top Tours in Boston, MA

Boston tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops

2. The Revolutionary Story Epic Small Group Walking Tour of Boston

3. Freedom Trail: Small Group Tour of Revolutionary Boston

4. Martha's Vineyard Daytrip from Boston with Round-Trip Ferry & Island Tour Option

5. Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark

6. Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour

7. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission

8. Boston Small-Group Walking Food Tour With Tastings

9. Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

10. Boston Duck Boat Sightseeing City Tour with Cruise Along Charles River

11. Boston Night Tour With Boston Sightseeing Double-Decker Bus

12. Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran

13. Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution

14. Boston Freedom Trail Daily Walking Tour

15. Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour

16. Boston Seafood Lovers Adventure

17. View Boston Observation Deck Admission Tickets

18. Martha's Vineyard Day Trip with Optional Island Tour from Boston

19. Tour of Boston and Quincy: History and Fun

20. Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II

21. Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl

22. The Small Group Boston Tour, I know secrets that others don't!

23. Walking Tour: Downtown Freedom Trail plus Beacon Hill to Copley Square/Back Bay

24. Boston Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

25. 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with Harbor Cruise Option

26. Boston Signature Dinner Cruise

27. Boston: North End to Freedom Trail - Food & History Walking Tour

28. Public Small Group Walking Tour of the Full Boston Freedom Trail

29. Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor

30. Boston City View Bicycle Tour by Urban AdvenTours

What travellers are saying.

• Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark
• Freedom Trail: Small Group Tour of Revolutionary Boston
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission
• Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops
• Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour
• North End Boston Food Tour
• Intrepid Urban Adventures - Boston
• Mobsters and Lobsters
• Walk & Talk Boston Walking Tours
• Trailblazer Tours Boston - Private Tours
• Night Rider Private Charters of Boston
• Boston Chinatown Tours
• Walking Boston - Tours
• PhotoWalks Tours
• Boston Foodie Tours
• Tuckamore Aviation
• The Motorsport Lab
• New England Aquarium Whale Watch
• Boston Crime Tour
• Boston Segway Tours
• Boston's "Politically Incorrect" North End Food Tour

Top Tours in Boston, MA

Boston tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops

2. The Revolutionary Story Epic Small Group Walking Tour of Boston

3. Freedom Trail: Small Group Tour of Revolutionary Boston

4. Martha's Vineyard Daytrip from Boston with Round-Trip Ferry & Island Tour Option

5. Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark

6. Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour

7. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission

8. Boston Small-Group Walking Food Tour With Tastings

9. Boston Top 10 Highlights - Freedom Trail & ‘Cheers’ Landmark Tour

10. Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

11. Boston Duck Boat Sightseeing City Tour with Cruise Along Charles River

12. Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran

13. Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution

14. Boston Freedom Trail Daily Walking Tour

15. The Small Group Boston Tour, I know secrets that others don't!

16. Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour

17. Boston Seafood Lovers Adventure

18. View Boston Observation Deck Admission Tickets

19. Martha's Vineyard Day Trip with Optional Island Tour from Boston

20. Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II

21. Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl

22. Walking Tour: Downtown Freedom Trail plus Beacon Hill to Copley Square/Back Bay

23. Boston Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

24. 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with Harbor Cruise Option

25. Boston Signature Dinner Cruise

26. Boston: North End to Freedom Trail - Food & History Walking Tour

27. Public Small Group Walking Tour of the Full Boston Freedom Trail

28. Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor

29. Boston City View Bicycle Tour by Urban AdvenTours

30. Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark
• Freedom Trail: Small Group Tour of Revolutionary Boston
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission
• Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops
• Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour
• North End Boston Food Tour
• Intrepid Urban Adventures - Boston
• Mobsters and Lobsters
• Walk & Talk Boston Walking Tours
• Trailblazer Tours Boston - Private Tours
• Night Rider Private Charters of Boston
• Boston Chinatown Tours
• Walking Boston - Tours
• PhotoWalks Tours
• Boston Foodie Tours
• Tuckamore Aviation
• The Motorsport Lab
• New England Aquarium Whale Watch
• Boston Crime Tour
• Boston Segway Tours
• Boston's "Politically Incorrect" North End Food Tour

Discover Amazing Boston

Explore the vibrant history of Boston with Historic Tours of America. Since 1984, our orange and green trolleys have transported visitors through the rich tapestry of America’s past. Experience the stories of our founding fathers and brave revolutionaries, brought to life by our knowledgeable guides.

Boston's Original Storyteller

Join us in honoring our 40-year legacy, welcome to the cradle of liberty.

Boston, known as the “Cradle of Liberty,” is steeped in history. From the Old North Church to the Old State House, its landmarks stand as guardians of our nation’s heritage. Follow the Freedom Trail and walk in the footsteps of our forefathers, gaining a deeper appreciation for their sacrifices. But Historic Tours of America offers more than history. It’s primarily an engaging expedition that transports you through time, allowing you to actively participate in Boston’s captivating narrative.

Hop aboard one of our trolleys and you’ll experience Transportainment ® , a delightful combination of transportation and entertainment.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. This museum tells the story of the Boston Tea Party, which took place on December 16, 1773. Many historians consider it to be the single most important event that led to the American Revolution. Step aboard the fully restored tea ships, become a participant in history, and experience the bravery of those who fought for independence. The riveting museum features a screening room playing a short film about the American Revolution with surround sound, an exhibit room featuring Musion 3D holographic technology, and a cafe called Abigail’s Tea Room. The cafe offers sandwiches, salads, and other snacks as well as a sampling of modern teas chosen for their resemblance to what colonial Americans drank.

Boston's Eerie Streets

For a chilling and exhilarating experience, join Ghosts & Gravestones. Established in 1998 as a response to the increased interest in the city’s paranormal activity, this haunting experience has been delighting guests for decades. Climb aboard the Trolley of the Doomed for a fun and spooky paranormal adventure. Traverse the city’s eerie streets, hear tales of haunted sites, and prepare for a thrilling tour as Boston’s haunted past comes to life.

Our commitment goes beyond just showcasing Beantown’s history.

We actively participate in local initiatives to preserve and protect Boston’s sites, ensuring future generations can experience the city’s legacy. Through several partnerships, we support educational programs and events that provide a deeper understanding of Boston’s history and culture.

Witness the Magic of Boston

As the sun sets, embark on the Boston Summer Nights Tour and Charles River Cruise. Hop aboard the Old Town Trolley and witness the magic of Boston under the night sky. Marvel at the stunning skyline, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and experience the enchanting ambiance of the city after dark. Then, discover the beauty of Boston on the water as you board the Charles River Boat at the Cambridgeside Mall for an exclusive cruise down the river.

Explore Boston's illustrious past while enjoying modern-day conveniences

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or curious about its storied past, our tours captivate and educate tourists of all ages. Discover the heart and soul of Boston with any of our exciting attractions. Join an adventure through time, experience the city’s vibrancy, indulge in its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in its welcoming community.

Choose Your Tickets

Whether you’re just breezing through or enjoying an extended stay, we’ve got several options to choose from to help you maximize your time in Boston and still see the best first!

1-Day Old Town Trolley Tour

• 1 day of free unlimited re-boarding*
• 50% off Historic Harbor Cruise*
• $10 off Ghosts & Gravestones Tour*
• $6 off admission to Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum*
• $5 off Boston Summer Nights Tour & Charles River Cruise* (May 24 – September 2, 2024)
• 50% off admission at The Sports Museum*

2-Day Old Town Trolley Tour

• 2 consecutive days of free unlimited re-boarding**

Summer Nights Tour and Charles River Cruise

• 2 hours including a private, 1-hour river cruise
• Enjoy 45 minutes on the trolley with live narration through the city and across the Charles River into Cambridge
• Discover the beauty of Boston on the water as you board the Charles River Boat
• Our expert guides provide a captivating tour
• Boston’s only evening sightseeing trolley tour

Ghosts & Gravestones

• Explore Some of Boston’s Most Haunted Sites…
• Walk Amongst the Dead in Burying Grounds Nearly 400-Years-Old
• Exclusive Night-Time Access into Two of Boston’s Oldest Burying Grounds
• See Boston’s Most Haunted Hotel: The Omni Parker House
• Check for available days and times

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

• Journey Back in Time to the Famous Event that Changed American History!
• See Live Actors and High-Tech, Interactive Exhibits
• Visit Authentically Restored Tea Ships
• Dump Tea Overboard Just as the Sons of Liberty Did

Discover Amazing Tours in Boston

Step back in time and explore boston, specialty tours, maximize your time by taking our boston excursions, groups, charters & weddings.

Plan an unforgettable experience for your group event with Historic Tours of America.

Groups & Charters

• Enjoy discounted rates
• Custom design your rental
• Private tour guide provided for charters
• Combine a rental with attractions
• Bring your guests to your event on time
• Ride in classic Boston style
• Personalize your trolley ride
• Be treated to a red-carpet experience!

Hometown Pass

Locals receive Free Admission!

Included* with Your Boston Hometown Pass:

• Old Town Trolley Tours
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Our Free Hometown Pass is the best way to entertain visiting friends and family!

All residents of the state of Massachusetts can take advantage of some of our tours and attractions for FREE when accompanied by an adult full-fare paid guest.* It’s Simple, Fast & Best of all… Free!

Welcome to Boston's Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile, red-lined route that leads to 16 historically significant sites — each one an authentic treasure. Explore museums and meetinghouses, churches, burying grounds and more. Learn about the brave people who shaped our nation. Experience over 250 years of history, and discover the rich history of the American Revolution as it began in Boston, where every step tells a story. 

More In This Section Click to Open

There are countless ways to explore the Freedom Trail and its official historic sites. From year-round immersive programs and activities at the 16 historic sites to public and private walking tours led by 18 th -century costumed guides, National Park Service's Park Rangers, and more, to self-guided tours by foot with a map, guide book, or audio guide, there are exciting and comfortable methods for everyone to enjoy the authentic history and sites where fights for American's freedoms were ignited.  Sample itineraries and resources are available to help plan visits to the Freedom Trail.

Walk the Freedom Trail and experience over 250 years of history! 

Freedom Trail Brochure

The Freedom Trail Official Online Brochure includes information on all 16 official Freedom Trail historic sites, a detailed map and more!

Visiting the Freedom Trail

Official historic sites.

Step inside the places where the American Revolution was launched, from pews and pulpits, private homes and public offices, with fiery speeches and midnight rides. Experience Boston's indoor/outdoor history experiences!

Walking Tours

Boston's official walking tours led by 18th-century costumes guides (or in plainclothes) are available for public or private groups 362 days per year. From individuals to large groups, tours bring history to life for everyone!

Freedom Trail Store

Purchase Freedom Trail guidebooks, educational items, combination joint tickets, Hear History audio guide, souvenirs and more!

Featured Tours

Walk into history®.

The Freedom Trail Foundation's most popular tour highlights the revolutionary history that took place at 11 of the 16 official Freedom Trail historic sites.

Tour Schedule

Daily, 10 am, 11 am,  12 noon, 1 pm  (plus 2 pm Sat. & Sun.) Purchase Tickets  

Revolutionary Women

Experience and discover the women who took part in the American Revolution, and the generations of women that followed, inaugurating their own struggles for freedom and equality.

March, select Saturdays-Sundays: 10:45 a.m.

Private & Custom

All Freedom Trail tours led by 18 th -century costumed guides are excellent for families, school field trips, corporate team building, incentives, and convention activities. These tours can be customized to fit your group's schedule and are available year round. 

Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

As Massachusetts' capital and the birthplace of the American Revolution, there's no shortage of historical sites for travelers to explore within Boston's city limits (and beyond). There's even a Boston Tea Party Museum on the harbor

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

Stretching 2½ miles, the Freedom Trail weaves past 16 of the city's most historic sites, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace , the Paul Revere House and Old North Church . Taking in all of the trail's attractions requires at least half a day (and some comfortable walking shoes), but you can easily plot points of interest before you begin your jaunt from Boston Common .

Though most visitors agree the trail is easy to navigate on your own, some recommend a guided tour or downloading an app to tell you about the sites. (You'll find a handful of apps available for Apple and Android devices.) If you have a Go Boston Card, standard guided tours given by the Freedom Trail Foundation are covered by your pass.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every Friday and Saturday, Haymarket (one America's oldest open-air markets) pops up adjacent to Faneuil Hall. In order to navigate this often-chaotic scene successfully make sure to bring small bills, leave bulky bags at the hotel and keep it moving on the sidewalk. - Jill LeGrow

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall. Built in 1742 and now a stop on the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." From those illustrious days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants.

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

Though the Boston Public Garden sits right next to Boston Common , the two are quite different. The public garden is newer (established in 1837) and holds the distinction of being America's first public botanical garden. Flowers and trees are beautifully organized and kept in quality condition throughout. You can see the colorful arrangements and exotic trees from the 6-acre pond as you glide along the water in a Swan Boat. Additionally, the park houses two of Boston's most iconic statues: Make Way for Ducklings (a bronze sculpture of a duck and her eight ducklings) and a sculpture of George Washington (which shows America's first president riding on a horse).

Visitors looking to relax after sightseeing will enjoy the Boston Public Garden. Parkgoers say you'll find plenty of shade beneath the park's trees, which comes in handy on hot summer days. Plus, you'll likely spot some ducks and geese swimming around the lagoon. And if you have a few dollars, visitors recommend taking a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat. The large paddle boats cost $4.50 to ride (or $3 for kids ages 2 to 15 and $4 for seniors); travelers with Go Boston Cards ride for free. Swan Boats are usually available between mid-April and Labor Day.

Popular Tours

Martha's Vineyard Daytrip from Boston with Round-Trip Ferry & Island Tour Option

(2154 reviews)

from $ 119.00

Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops

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from $ 42.00

Freedom Trail: Small Group Tour of Revolutionary Boston

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from $ 39.00

North End North End free

Chances are you'll end up in the North End at least once during your visit to Boston. It's steeped in the city's rich history as it holds the title of Boston's oldest neighborhood and houses three attractions on the Freedom Trail . What makes this neighborhood a top point of interest, however, is its Italian culture: The North End is considered Boston's Little Italy.

While Italians weren't the first to settle in this area (English settlers arrived first then European Jews, African Americans and Irish immigrants), their cultural influence on the North End withstood the test of time. Today, you'll find all kinds of Italian food from classic pizza pies served at the popular Regina Pizzeria to Sicilian-style seafood, such as black linguine (made with squid ink) and calamari meatballs at The Daily Catch . For dinner, try Mamma Maria for fine dining, Giacomo's for its affordable, made-in-house pasta or Bricco , which sources its meats and bread from its own meat and bread shop, located right next door. If you’re only interested in pizza, hit up Galleria Umberto for delectable solo slices or Antico Forno for its full-size, wood-fired pies. Prezza is known for its extensive wine list, boasting hundreds of wine labels to choose from. For dessert, make sure to pick up a cannoli at Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry , or tiramisu at the 24-hour Bova's Bakery .

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

If you want to make the most out of the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most comprehensive art institutions in the country, then you'll need to spend a good chunk of your day here. The museum is home to one of the best art collections in the world, including the celebrated Art of the Americas wing. Inside this sprawling collection, you'll encounter galleries showcasing iconic pieces from indigenous cultures in North, South and Central America to works by contemporary artists like Edward Hopper.

You'll also find an impressive collection of Asian art here, plus works from Monet, Renoir, Manet and Rembrandt on display. And in special temporary exhibits, you can admire masterpieces from Black artists like Diedrick Brackens and Picasso, among others.

Boston Common Boston Common free

The grounds of Boston Common started as a cow pasture in the mid-1600s. It was also used for Puritan punishments, like whipping, and even for hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common is best known because of its status as the oldest public park in the country. You'll also find a variety of activities and events – including theater and musical performances and free fitness classes – hosted here throughout the year. If you plan to traverse the Freedom Trail , you'll start the walk here at Boston Common.

Though some visitors say you won't find much to do in this park, Boston Common is great for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Travelers also mention that this site is a wonderful spot to take young children. In addition to ample running room on the park's green space, kids can play at the Tadpole Playground or Frog Pond. Frog Pond offers a spray pool during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in the winter. Some visitors do note that the park tends to draw Boston's homeless population, particularly at night.

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Fenway Park Fenway Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to watch a Sox game without a ticket, head to the Bleacher Bar on Lansdowne Street. Located beneath the bleachers of Fenway, the best tables are positioned directly in front of the huge garage window that overlook centerfield. – Jill LeGrow

Fans of America's favorite pastime won't want to miss a game at Fenway Park. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this stadium has been the site of home runs, stolen bases and grounders since 1912. Regardless of whether or not you're a diehard Red Sox fan, you should try to catch a game and admire the ballpark's original architecture. Must-see features of the park include Pesky's Pole – the right field foul pole named after former Red Sox player Johnny Pesky – and the 37-foot-tall "Green Monster" wall in left field.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

After Isabella Stewart Gardner's husband died in 1898, the art enthusiast carried out their plan to buy land in Boston's Fenway area and open a museum to display her impressive collection of Italian art. The museum, which was fashioned after the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice , was completed in 1901, at which point Gardner moved in to the fourth floor and began installing her collection. Today, you can visit this Boston museum to get your fill of the Italian masters, such as Raphael and Titian. The building also showcases a cache of beautiful furniture, photographs, sculpture and rare books straight from Europe. The museum's New Wing, designed by Renzo Piano, includes a glass atrium, greenhouses and landscaped gardens.

The art isn't the only interesting thing here: the museum is also the site of the single largest property theft on Earth. In the wee hours of March 18, 1990, two thieves made their way into the museum disguised as police. The duo stole 13 works, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas and Manet. Today, the museum has empty frames on the walls as placeholders until the art returns to the museum. As you may have guessed, the crime has not been solved and the works haven't been recovered. The museum is even offering a sizable reward ($10 million) for information leading to the art. 

Boston Duck Boat Sightseeing City Tour with Cruise Along Charles River

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Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission

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The Revolutionary Story Epic Small Group Walking Tour of Boston

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Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

A library isn't always all about books. The main branch of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, which opened in 1895, is so much more, according to recent visitors who call the architecture "beautiful" and a “must-see.” Walking into the Renaissance Revival building is akin to visiting a museum. On Dartmouth Street, two immense stone lions sculpted by Louis Saint-Gaudens stand guard by the main entrance. Inside, Bates Hall, the library's main reference reading room, is a 218-foot-long room with a barrel-arch ceiling soaring 50 feet high.

Visitors can take a free tour and learn all about the murals found throughout the library, including John Singer Sargent's series on the "Triumph of Religion." Other murals include works by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, who depicted eight library-centric disciplines in "The Muses of Inspiration," and Edwin Austin Abbey's "The Quest and Achievement of the Holy Grail."

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

A must for any history buffs or fans of our nation's 35th president, this excellent library and museum details the life of President John F. Kennedy. Exhibits include his presidential papers; masses of Kennedy memorabilia, including re-creations of his desk in the Oval Office and of the television studio in which he debated Richard M. Nixon in the 1960 election; and artifacts from the U.S. space program. There's permanent display on the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis plus plenty of other artifacts and information about Kennedy's life and presidency. The building itself is quite striking and was designed by architect I. M. Pei.

Museumgoers say that while the museum is off the beaten path (it sits about 5 miles south of downtown on Columbia Point), it is well worth the trek thanks to the exhibits and staff. However, some wish the exhibits had a more detailed explanation of Kennedy and events during his life. The views from the museum are amazing, add some visitors.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

If you want to get outdoors in the greater Boston area, consider hopping a ferry (which operates from mid-May through mid-October) to the Boston Harbor Islands. This collection of 34 islands located in the Massachusetts Bay boasts plenty of things to do and see including historic sites, hiking trails, beaches, wildlife and much more. Popular islands include Spectacle, Georges and Peddocks, though ferries also go to Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin and Thompson.

The 114-acre Spectacle Island is a great option for those looking to hike. Here, you'll find 5 miles of trails, including one which leads to the harbor's highest hill, offering incredible views of Boston's skyline. If you’re looking for a place where you can sink your toes into the sand, head to Lovells Island. Here, you’ll find secluded shorelines as well as tide pools (when it's low tide, a whopping 71 acres are added to the island's land mass). Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy a trip to Georges Island. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, which the U.S. government used for patrolling and training Union troops as well as housing Confederate prisoners during Civil War times. Peddocks Island, one of the largest of the Boston Harbor Islands, offers a little bit of everything. This island is considered a prime camping spot and features scenic hiking trails that pass through coastal forests, headlands connected by tombolos and the biggest beach of any island. You'll also find a little bit of history thanks to Fort Andrews and a restored chapel from World War II.

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

Located in the Back Bay along eight blocks between Massachusetts Avenue and Arlington Street, Newbury Street is home to gorgeous 19th century brownstones. It's also Boston's premiere destination for dining and shopping. Newbury Street has been called one of the most expensive streets in the world, thanks in large part to the significant cluster of expensive shops on the lower end (by numbered address) nearest Arlington Street.

Starting at the higher end, by Massachusetts Avenue, you'll find more budget-friendly retailers like TJ Maxx and Forever 21, as well longtime local favorites Newbury Comics and Trident Booksellers. In fact, Newbury Comics' opening in 1978 was the catalyst that began the transformation of Newbury Street from a heavily upper-class retail destination to a hipper, trendier spot for everyone.

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

Despite its location outside of city center, visiting the Samuel Adams Brewery is a popular stop for beer lovers. This brewery location acts as Samuel Adams' testing facility for new and specialty brews, which patrons can try. You can also take a guided tour of the facility to learn more about the brewing process.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, odds are you'll enjoy a visit to this brewery. Visitors say the staff is knowledgeable, but note there can be long entry lines.

Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark

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Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour

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Boston Freedom Trail Daily Walking Tour

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Cambridge Cambridge free

Cambridge, which sits about 3 miles northwest of Boston's city center, is home to both Harvard University and MIT , but there's more to see in Cambridge than just the schools themselves. The city features an impressive array of cultural institutions that feature collections and exhibitions ranging from fine art to technological innovations.

The Harvard Art Museums , which include the Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum and Arthur M. Sackler Museum, house a wide range of periods, styles and mediums within its walls. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern photography, 13th century sculpture, paintings from legends like Georgia O’Keeffe, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, and much more. If you prefer history, head to the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology , which boasts exhibits exploring everything from ancient Latin American cultures to the evolution of American eating habits and tableware to the lives of Native Americans. If science is more your speed, head to the Harvard Museum of Natural History to view dinosaur fossils, rare minerals and animal specimens from New England to Asia.

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

Beacon Hill is arguably Boston's most beautiful neighborhood. Located north of Boston Common , Beacon Hill is awash with quaint, cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses affixed with bay view windows and vibrant, flower-filled window boxes. It's Beacon Hill's incredible style, a stunning mix of Federal and Greek revival architecture, that make this neighborhood an attraction in and of itself. And recent visitors couldn't agree more.

Travelers who venture to Beacon Hill are charmed by its beauty and say that it's the perfect place to take a long stroll and wander around. While here, make sure to make your way to noteworthy spots including the picturesque Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, the latter of which is one of the most photographed places in Boston. After, head down Charles Street, where you'll find restaurants, shops and bars. Fans of the TV show "Cheers" will want to walk down Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the program.

Old North Church Old North Church

Most people who know anything about American history have heard of Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, when he rode through town to warn people about the arrival of British troops. Before heading off to Lexington, Revere gave orders at Old North Church. Robert Newman – the church's sexton – and Captain John Pulling Jr. – the church's vestryman – then climbed the steeple and held two lanterns as a signal that the British were indeed coming, but by sea.

The church itself, which is officially named Christ Church, is filled with beautiful relics from the past, including North America's oldest set of change ringing bells and chandeliers brought in from England in the early 1700s. The pews have a long history as well; Pew No. 54 was reserved for Paul Revere's son.

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

With a giant milk bottle structure at the front of the building, it's hard to miss the Boston Children's Museum. Here, hands-on exhibits present a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about various sciences, culture, art and health and wellness, among other subjects. Among the museum's standout exhibits are "Construction Zone," where little ones can learn about and play with kid-sized construction equipment, "The Common," where kids play with color, games and music, and "Japanese House" – a 100-year-old authentic Japanese house reconstructed in Boston by Japanese carpenters.

Museumgoers praise the variety of engaging exhibits tailored to kids within different age groups and can't recommend it enough. Others warn the museum gets crowded, especially in the summer.

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

Boston is packed with cool outdoor spaces, but this nearly 1½-mile-long series of parks and gardens offers more than most. The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway was established to link Boston's diverse neighborhoods through a series of lawns, parks and walkways that occupy a former highway tunnel. Since opening in 2008, visitors have flocked to this sprawling green space to enjoy temporary public art displays, bubbling fountains, numerous food vendors and a carousel. Plus, the park offers free weekly events, including food and art festivals, summer concert performances and seasonal fitness classes.

Many previous visitors said the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway not only offers a much-needed respite from the city, but also an easy way to explore Boston with kids during the warmer months. And, in many sections of the Greenway, you're never more than a few steps away from the Freedom Trail .

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Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

This hands-on museum offers an entertaining look at one of Boston's pivotal moments. You can toss (fake) tea overboard, climb around replica ships and converse with period actors about Colonial issues. Exhibits at the museum, which is located on Griffin's Wharf (close to where the actual Tea Party occurred on Dec. 16, 1773) include 3D holograms, talking portraits and the Robinson Tea Chest, an authentic tea chest from the Boston Tea Party. Two of the three ships have been recreated, the Beaver and the Eleanor, which are fun to explore. The film "Let It Begin Here" depicts the events that immediately preceded the American Revolution. You can also grab a cup of tea or a snack in Abigail's Tea Room, which has one of the best views of the harbor around.

Visitors love the interactive nature of the museum and tossing tea overboard, saying their time there was entertaining for all ages. They also add that the guides are informative and stay in character.

Museum of Science Museum of Science

If you're traveling with young ones in tow, be sure to swing by the Museum of Science. Here, kids can learn about astronomy, earth sciences and anatomy, not to mention participate in some fun interactive exhibits. Budding scientists can examine the Arctic in "Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology" exhibit or play on swings to learn about physics in "Science in the Park." The museum also features the Charles Hayden Planetarium, where you can indulge your inner astronaut during shows. Meanwhile, at the Mugar Omni Theater, you'll feel like you're actually in the IMAX film thanks to its cutting-edge sound technology and five-story-high projection screen.

Although the museum is very kid-focused, past visitors said that young-at-heart adults and even teens will get a kick out of the museum's engaging displays and shows. Though most travelers spend about half a day exploring the museum, you could easily allocate an entire day to this attraction. Also, remember that separate tickets (which cost extra) are needed for some museum features, such as IMAX films, planetarium shows and the Garden Walk and Insect Zoo.

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

Wander Boston for a couple of hours and you're sure to see a Duck Tour quacking its way through the streets (and waterways). These "Truck Duck" vehicles recreate the look of a DUKW truck used by the U.S. military during World War II and transport tourists all over the city by land and water. The tours drive past a number of landmark sites including the Old State House, Newbury Street , Prudential Tower, Public Garden and the Swan Boats, and Copley Square (home to the Boston Public Library ). Once launched into the water, you'll cruise down the Charles River checking out MIT, the Longfellow Bridge, as well as the Esplanade and the Hatch Shell. 

Besides giving tours around the city, Boston Duck Tour boats have been used in all of the victory parades since 2002 for the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins (the city's major teams for football, baseball, basketball and hockey, respectively). What started off simply as a way to roll the Patriots through downtown Boston for a Superbowl celebration has turned into a much-loved tradition that continues today.

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

Even if you're not a classical music aficionado, you can't miss attending one of the Boston Symphony Orchestra's world-renowned performances at Symphony Hall. The BSO began performing in 1881. Today, the symphony performs everything from family shows to traditional concerts and Boston Pops – a lively performance filled with singing and a variety of music. The BSO performs at Symphony Hall from September through April, then heads to Tanglewood (which is about 130 miles west of Boston) in the summer.

Past spectators not only praised the world-class talent, but also noted the impressive acoustics of Symphony Hall as a main selling point for attending future concerts. If you can't score tickets to an orchestra performance, consider taking a free tour of Symphony Hall. Tours, which are offered in the fall, winter and spring, provide information about the property, as well as insight into the orchestra's musicians and conductors.

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

Gaze up at the six 54-foot glass towers that comprise the New England Holocaust Memorial, and you're bound to be awestruck. Dedicated in 1995, each haunting tower is etched with numbers. The 6 million numbers represent the Holocaust's victims, while the towers represent the six major death camps. There is also a granite path covered in quotes from survivors that leads visitors inside the towers.

Recent visitors described walking through the columns as an emotionally charged and unforgettable experience. The monument's location next to Faneuil Hall Marketplace makes it very accessible while walking the Freedom Trail .

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Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

For a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s, head to Paul Revere's former residence in the North End . The house, which is situated on the Freedom Trail , offers insight into how homes looked in Revere's time (it's even filled with period pieces, including fine silver). Inside, history fans can admire the building's sweeping beams, spacious fireplaces and some original furnishings owned by the Revere family.

If you like American history, travelers say you'll enjoy seeing the Paul Revere House. This house is small, though, so don't allot more than an hour to tour the property. Docents are friendly and knowledgeable.

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

The golden-domed Massachusetts State House is an important building for many reasons and is one of the stops on the Freedom Trail . The land it sits on was originally used as John Hancock’s cow pasture. It was designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1798 and the cornerstone was laid by Samuel Adams in 1795. A copper dome was installed by Paul Revere in 1802 (later covered in gold). Nowadays, senators, state representatives and the governor conduct the Commonwealth's business here.

Free tours are offered by docents who explain the building's history and discuss the important art and architecture within. Make sure to look for the Sacred Cod in the House of Representatives Chamber. The almost 5-foot wooden cod symbolizes the importance of the salt cod industry to the area.

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

Your kids will find plenty to love at the New England Aquarium, starting with the Atlantic harbor seals that hang out just beyond the ticket booth. Inside, you'll find thousands of marine critters to study, and at the center: the Giant Ocean Tank. This four-story tank includes a coral reef habitat that houses more than 1,000 underwater creatures including green sea turtles, eels and barracuda. In other parts of the aquarium, you'll find exhibits dedicated to penguins, sea jellies and seadragons, plus a six-story high projection movie screen with digital surround sound, where you can watch films about sea creatures and more. And don't forget to check out the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, which allows visitors to graze sharks and rays as they swim by.

While some visitors bemoan the aquarium's compact size (which, in turn, made for thick crowds), many appreciate the attraction's variety of animals. Several travelers also recommend watching a penguin or seal feeding.

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every July 4th, the USS Constitution takes her annual "turnaround" sail in Boston Harbor. The particular sail is the only one open to the public and the US Navy holds a lottery with the lucky winners getting to board "Old Ironsides." – Jill LeGrow

History lovers, boat enthusiasts and military aficionados alike can't miss the chance to board the USS Constitution. Docked at the Boston National Historical Park in Charlestown, this historic vessel is the world's oldest commissioned warship still operational today. It is helmed by United States Navy sailors, who also serve as the ship's guides. The ship's accompanying museums displays nearly 2,000 artifacts related to the ship's history.

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

Bunker Hill Monument is part of the Boston National Historical Park and a stop on the Freedom Trail . The first major battle of the American Revolution took place on Breed's Hill in June 1775, though originally it was supposed to take place on nearby Bunker Hill. Names aside, the British won the battle but fared worse than their American foes. The British sacrificed about nearly half of their 2,400 men; American casualties were between 300 and 500 out of an army of 1,400 to 1,800 soldiers. Construction of the monument started in 1827 and was completed in 1842. The 221-foot granite obelisk offers fabulous views from its observatory, though you have to work for it by climbing 294 steps to the top.

Start your visit at the Bunker Hill Museum, located across the street. Exhibits explain the Battle of Bunker Hill, the construction of the monument, and the history of Charlestown. Free tickets are required to climb the monument and you can also pick them up at the museum. Visitors enjoy the museum and say the monument is awe-inspiring and the grounds beautiful.

Guided Freedom Trail Walking Tour

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View Boston View Boston

U.S. News Insider Tip: To save some cash on your sightseeing, pick up a Boston CityPass which allows you to visit up to four attractions (such as the Museum of Science , New England Aquarium , Boston Harbor City Cruise and View Boston) for one discounted price. – Jill LeGrow

Replacing the iconic Top of the Hub restaurant and Skywalk Observatory that closed in 2020, View Boston opened in June 2023 to offer 360 panoramic views of Boston from atop the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Taking over the top three floors of the Prudential Center, View Boston includes an observatory, a wraparound roof deck and indoor/outdoor cocktail bar called Stratus, and a floor with interactive exhibits such as a projection-mapped 3D model of Boston. There's also Beacon, a bistro offering seasonal beverages and food.

The Mapparium The Mapparium

Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story, stained glass globe never fails to elicit wonder. Designed by the architect of the Christian Science Publishing Society building, Chester Lindsay Churchill, the globe depicts the world as it was in 1935.

The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.

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Boston has transformed itself countless times over four centuries since the Puritans arrived in 1630 and founded the Massachusetts Bay Colony.  Early figures such as John Winthrop, Cotton Mather, and Anne Hutchinson endeavored to create a “City upon a Hill” where Puritan values would flourish in the New World.  Venerable institutions such as Harvard College and Boston Latin School were founded to instill and propagate a New World education set forth by the Puritan clergy.

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Given its geographical location, Boston quickly came to rely on its port for commerce and sustenance.  Trade was paramount and it was the emergence of Boston’s maritime merchants – trading goods like tea, sugar, fish, and tobacco – which ultimately led to a collision course with the British Empire.  As the China Trade grew, along with Boston’s reliance on tea as an import and an export, and as Britain’s East India Company depreciated, a fraught situation developed; Britain, facing debt and discord, transferred war debts and trading deficits to its colonies.

Boston was in a state of defiance and non-compliance from the outset.  As the British Parliament passed a succession of acts aimed at taxing the colonists and restricting their political power, leading figures such as Sam Adams, John Hancock, John Adams and Paul Revere initiated a movement which transcended class lines and drove the people of Boston into open rebellion.  Catalytic events such as the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party drove events inexorably towards revolution.  By the time Paul Revere road into the countryside on April 18, 1775, the city of Boston was ready to fight.  The Battle of Bunker Hill occurred two months later and by early 1776 General George Washington was in Boston to take control of the Continental Army.

Bunker Hill Monument

Following American Independence, Boston’s economy entered a new era of Clipper Ships, textile manufacturing and global trade.  In terms of social and political developments, abolitionist fervor took the town by storm, led by Charles Sumner and William Lloyd Garrison and supported by a vociferous contingent of female abolitionists.  Boston was home to a vibrant and active African-American community which populated Beacon Hill during this era; the first African-American Church, Meeting House, and School were all founded on Beacon Hill.

Also during this era, America’s nascent literary culture began to find its voice as esteemed Boston writers such as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and James Russell Lowell ushered in a prolific era of American writing.   

In the mid to late 19 th century Boston underwent dramatic change to its landscape and population.  The arrival of immigrants from Ireland during the Potato Famine, and then from Italy, Germany, and Poland later in the century, fundamentally changed Boston’s human makeup and political leanings.  Boston’s older caste, the Republican Yankee establishment, was slowly pushed to the margins of Boston’s political life.  While the Yankees maintained control of Boston’s economic and educational institutions, Irish and Italian immigrants took over the city’s political apparatus.  The immigrants brought to Boston a bevy of skilled and unskilled labor that was critical to Boston’s physical development beyond its downtown and port peninsula.  Boston had outgrown its physical size by the 1840s and needed to create new land.

With the help of Irish labor, the city developed the South End and then the Back Bay, re-locating the Yankees during the 1860s and 1870s to the Victorian brownstones and town houses so associated with Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood.  Soon enough, iconic landmarks such as Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library existed in the Back Bay as well.  Not bad for an area that had been part of the Charles River Basin for millennia untold.

Boston Public Library

Always innovative, Boston spearheaded a number of firsts throughout the mid-19 th century and early 20 th century: ether was used as the first anesthetic at MGH, the nation’s first subway system went into operation, Alexander Graham Bell patented the telephone, and the first mutual fund went public courtesy of MA Financial Services.  The city contracted with Frederick Law Olmstead to beautify Boston with a network of urban parks stretching from the Boston Common to Jamaica Plain.  The Emerald Necklace was born and the project included the creation of the Back Bay Fens which, in turn, facilitated the development of Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball.

Emerald Necklace

Commonwealth avenue mall.

In the 20 th century Boston continued its emergence as an innovation hub and world-class city.  MIT moved across the river to Cambridge and transformed from a tech college to a world-class institute of engineering and technology.  Bizarre and controversial events such as the North End Molasses Flood, Boston Police Strike, Brinks Robbery, Boston Strangler crimes, busing crisis, and destruction of the West End caused a fair share of intrigue and discordance while political figures such as James Michael Curley, John F. Kennedy, Thomas “Tip” O’Neill, Kevin White, and Michael Dukakis became household names.  As the nation celebrated its bicentennial in 1976, Boston used funds generated from the anniversary to transform and revitalize Faneuil Hall Marketplace and create the Boston National Historical Park.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Boston national parks, boston park rangers.

In the 1980s and 1990s, monumental tasks were undertaken to make Boston a cleaner, more aesthetically-pleasing city.  The cleanup of Boston Harbor and creation of the Big Dig were the most prominent examples.  Boston Harbor is now one of the cleanest urban harbors in the world.  And while the Big Dig vastly exceeded its allotted budget and timeframe, it was a transformative project of unprecedented size that made Boston more efficient for travelers and more beautiful for tourists.  The sprawling Rose Kennedy Greenway atop I-93 is a lush urban space affording visitors and residents alike relaxation and recreation within the city center, not to mention eclectic artisan markets, food trucks, public art installations, outdoor movies and interactive festivals.

Boston Harbor

Rose fitzgerald kennedy greenway.

As Boston looks ahead to 2024 and beyond, the development of One Seaport Square and the Innovation District in South Boston will hum along and continue to bring new industries of life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and consumer technology to the bustling district. Alongside the Seaport District, Kendall Square in Cambridge makes Greater Boston one of the world’s foremost innovation clusters, and a hotbed of biotech engineering and life sciences research and development.

Boston will continue to embrace its past while formulating next steps to encourage the multiculturalism, inclusivity, and youthful character which collectively make the city a great cosmopolitan hub.

UNTOLD STORIES OF THE PUBLIC GARDEN

Join the Friends of the Public Garden for a free walking tour of Boston’s iconic Public Garden. Learn about the history, sculpture, and horticulture of America’s first public botanical garden during a one-hour guided tour through this treasured oasis.

2023 TOUR SEASON SCHEDULE

Public Garden tours return to the nations first public botanical garden on Tuesday, June 20. Tours run Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m. and Thursdays at 4:00 p.m. through the high season. 

CANCELLATIONS

The Tuesday,October 17  tour is cancelled due to weather.

PRIVATE TOURS

Private tours may be scheduled Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. The suggested donation will depend on the size of your group. Private tours are generally available June through September. To inquire about a private tour, please email [email protected] at the Friends office.

Additional questions? Please email [email protected].

Tour Quickfacts

• Public tours are free. No need to sign up prior; just show up!
• Please meet at the Make Way for Ducklings  sculpture in the Garden and watch for our volunteer tour guides in green aprons.
• Two volunteer tour guides lead each tour.
• Tours last about 60 minutes.
• Approximately one-half of the Public Garden (from Beacon Street to the bridge) is covered.
• A tour may be cancelled due inclement weather. Please call the office at 617-723-8144 to confirm.
• Please plan for the weather. You may want to bring a hat, sunblock, and water on warm days.

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PEOPLE's 24 Hour Food Tour: Boston

Local seafood spots, a late-night dive that can't be missed and more restaurant recommendations for a quick trip to Boston

Writer and editor Jillian Dara considers Boston her second home. After attending Emerson College in Boston, Jillian spent time living in London, Santiago, Chile and New York City before moving back to Beantown. During her time abroad, Boston’s culinary scene exploded and she returned to cover restaurant openings, chef profiles and beverage trends for local publications in addition to her national freelance portfolio of publications, including Food & Wine , Michelin Guide and Decanter . 

Boston’s culinary scene is far beyond emerging — it’s currently flourishing as local and international chefs are satiating the global palate all while ensuring that New England classics don’t fall by the wayside. Any tourist in the Bean should indulge in the regional seafood favorites, from clam chowder to lobster rolls (who serves the best one is an ongoing debate, but Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick are among the celebrities who approve of the highly-rated James Hook & Company ). But you'll also want to leave room for international flavors — there's great Portuguese, Greek, Lebanese and French — that have brought Boston’s restaurants into the spotlight. It’s challenging to pack everything all in one day, but 24 hours will certainly whet your appetite enough to entice you to return even hungrier. 

Breakfast: Bistro du Midi

Brian Samuels

Begin your food tour in the most quintessential Boston neighborhood of Back Bay at Bistro du Midi , a French cafe and bistro that overlooks the Public Garden. While Parisian staples like moules frites and wagyu beef tartare tantalize on the dinner menu, the weekend brunch shouldn’t be overlooked. Chef-partner Robert Sisca started his career as a sous chef at Le Bernardin in New York City, so you know his ability to champion elevated French cuisine is next level. (Celebrity chef Eric Ripert ’s Le Bernardin has maintained its three Michelin stars since 2005.) Sisca brings that French flair to breakfast with Duck Confit Foieffles, a playful, French twist on chicken and waffles where the confit is served on a Belgian waffle with kumquat, pomegranate, maple syrup and foie butter. There’s also the Crêpes Suzette, prepared with vanilla ricotta crème patisserie and orange; and the Croque Madame, layered with black forest ham, mornay, Gruyère and sunny side eggs. Chef Sisca’s personal pride is the classic French Omelette as it's smooth, airy and fluffy as a result of lightly scrambling the eggs, using water and never cream or milk. It’s served the traditional French way, with asparagus, French feta, chive and pommes frites or salad. If you think the dining room looks familiar, re-watch What’s Your Number? , as a scene from the 2011 movie starring Chris Evans and Anna Faris was filmed here. Other celebrity diners at Bistro du Midi have included: Harry Connick Jr., Drew Barrymore , Pedro Martínez, Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis .

Lunch: Hook + Line

elevensevenmedia

After a morning in one of the most historic neighborhoods, it’s time to head to one of the city’s newest, most burgeoning districts: the Seaport. Zag your way through a maze of recently developed residential towers and soaring office buildings to the waterfront where Hook + Line is ready to satisfy your essential New England cravings. Local restaurateur Tom Schlesinger-Guidelli, opened this regionally-inspired seafood restaurant as a response to the wave of international chains opening their latest outposts in Boston. He wanted to ensure an authentic seafood culture remained. Schlesinger-Guidelli curated a menu to highlight his favorite childhood dishes like stuffies (New England baked stuffed clams with buttery breadcrumbs and chorizo) and fried clams served with the works (fries, coleslaw and malt onion soubise) but also spotlighting coastal regions around the world with rotating fish from whole-roasted, Mediterranean branzino to wood-grilled Loch Duart Scottish salmon. On a sunny, summer day, nothing beats a lobster roll on their patio, which Schlesinger-Guidelli chose to serve two ways: the roll is cut in half with one side presented cold and tossed in mayonnaise and the other warm, drizzled with butter. Don’t forget there's also daily rotating regional oysters on the half shell.

Dinner: Myers + Chang

Kristin Teig

Husband-wife duo Christopher Myers and Joanne Chang opened their eponymous restaurant in 2007 to present a neighborhood eatery that fuses eastern and western flavors through a self-described “Asian-ish” menu with influence from Chinese, Taiwanese and Korean cuisine. Flavorful dishes tie to personal experiences from the couple's life — like Mama Chang’s pork and chive dumplings that Chang grew up making every weekend or the pan-roasted soy glazed salmon that Chang cooked for Myers when they were first dating. By night, the street lights twinkle in the oversized windows, reflecting against a moody interior that feels personal and homey. 

Spot a Celebrity at: Neptune Oyster

Ana M. Reyes

Open seven days a week, this intimate North End hotspot features a daily special to match, including sea urchin bucatini on Tuesdays and cuttle ink risotto on Fridays. Perhaps the most evergreen special, the lobster spaghettini has appeared as a Monday special since Neptune Oyster ’s owner Jeff Nace first served it to Leonardo DiCaprio when he was in town filming The Departed . Bring your appetite — the plate is piled with thin noodles in a garlic, white wine, and tomato sauce, under a layer of Maine lobster meat, breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese — and patience since there’s usually a line out the door for a coveted bar seat.

Sweet Treat: Modern Pastry

While in the North End, save room for a sweet treat at one of the most institutional bakeries in the city. As Italian immigrants, the Picariello family established Modern Pastry on Hanover Street in 1930 to share the authentic sweets they left behind with the new country they called home. The original location remains as does the recipes for the lauded cakes, cookies, pies, tarts and cannolis lining the wrap-around glass displays. If you only try one thing, make it a build-your-only-cannoli, choosing from the traditional with Ricotta filling or variations like vanilla custard and whipped cream as well as chocolate chips, pistachio or sliced almond toppings.

Late Night Snack: Anchovies

Somewhat of a hidden gem among locals in the know, this South End dive bar dishes out Italian comfort food until 1:30 a.m. Favorites include fried mozzarella, meatballs, prosciutto-stuffed calzones or simply pick at a heaping basket of truffle fries as last call is announced. Its ideal location means you’ll never end a night out hungry, whether you’re barhopping in Back Bay, sipping nearby at South End haunt or coming from a game at TD Garden.

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Charli XCX & Troye Sivan Join Forces For Massive “Charli XCX & Troye Sivan Present: Sweat” Tour

Longtime music collaborators and pop icon pioneers Troye Sivan and Charli XCX are teaming up once again for their highly anticipated 2024 co-headline arena tour, Charli XCX & Troye Sivan present: Sweat with special guest Shygirl, to turn iconic US and Canadian venues into raves . As two of the hottest names in pop and electronic music, the tour comes at a pivotal moment in both artist’s careers. Charli XCX & Troye Sivan present: Sweat is not only a celebration of their individual successes, but it is also a testament to their commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the music industry. Fans can expect an electrifying show filled with exhilarating performances, stunning visuals, and infectious beats.

Produced by Live Nation, the 21-city tour kicks off on September 14 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, MI, making stops across in North America including Toronto, ON; New York, NY; Boston, MA; Phoenix, AZ; Los Angeles, CA; San Francisco, CA and more before wrapping up in Seattle, WA at Climate Pledge Arena on October 23. Full routing is available below.

TICKETS: Advance presale registration is available now through April 25th at sweat-tour.com . The artist presale begins Thursday, April 25th at 10 AM local time. Registration does not guarantee tickets and supplies are limited. The general on-sale will begin on Friday, April 26 at 10 AM local time at LiveNation .com.

British avant-pop and electronic sensation Charli XCX, fresh off the announcement of her sold-out “BRAT 2024 – ARENA TOUR” shows in the UK, is gearing up for the release of her highly anticipated sixth solo album , ‘BRAT’ . The album, set to feature 15 tracks, includes the hit single “ Von dutch ” – the brash and synth heavy first taste of the record – alongside recent releases ‘ Club classics ’ and ‘ B2b ’.

Charli also recently unveiled ‘ The Von dutch remix with addison rae & a. g. cook ’, an effervescent rework of the smash hit single featuring A. G. Cook’s signature brand of idiosyncratic production and Charli and Addison going back and forth on vocals.

Charli threw a momentous Boiler Room in New York’s Brooklyn in February to launch the ‘BRAT’ campaign with A. G. Cook, George Daniel, Finn Keane and Doss. ‘ Boiler Room & Charli XCX Presents: PARTYGIRL ’ broke the record for the most ever RSVPs to a Boiler Room event, with over 40k people registering to attend. Featuring special guest appearances from the likes of Addison Rae and Julia Fox, the show has easily become one of the viral moments of the year.

Australian pop sensation Troye Sivan, known for his chart-topping hits and captivating performances, will be coming off the heels of his European arena tour in support of his critically acclaimed third album, “Something to Give Each Other” (2023) –  a celebration of sex, dance, sweat, community, queerness, love and friendship. His hit single “Rush ” – which earned two Grammy nominations and amassed over 180 million combined global streams to date–  and “ Got Me Started ,” the second single from his 2023 album, have gained worldwide recognition amongst his dedicated fan base.

Troye Sivan and Charli XCX are no strangers to collaboration, having previously worked together on smash hits such as “1999” and “2099.” Their undeniable chemistry and shared passion for music have solidified their partnership as one of the most dynamic duos in pop music.

CHARLI XCX & TROYE SIVAN PRESENT: SWEAT TOUR DATES:

Sat Sep 14, 2024 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena

Mon Sep 16, 2024 – Laval, QC – Place Bell

Wed Sep 18, 2024 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena

Fri Sep 20, 2024 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena

Mon Sep 23, 2024 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

Wed Sep 25, 2024 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center

Thu Sep 26, 2024 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena

Sat Sep 28, 2024 – Boston, MA – TD Garden

Mon Sep 30, 2024 – Chicago, IL – United Center

Wed Oct 02, 2024 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena

Thu Oct 03, 2024 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena

Sat Oct 05, 2024 – Miami, FL – Kaseya Center

Sun Oct 06, 2024 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center

Wed Oct 09, 2024 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center

Fri Oct 11, 2024 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena

Sun Oct 13, 2024 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center

Tue Oct 15, 2024 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum

Fri Oct 18, 2024 – San Diego, CA – Viejas Arena

Sun Oct 20, 2024 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center

Tue Oct 22, 2024 – Portland, OR – Moda Center

Wed Oct 23, 2024 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

ABOUT CHARLI XCX

Avant-pop and electronic superstar Charli XCX has become an iconic figure in the arts, having helped expand the landscape of popular music over the last decade by seamlessly traversing the underground and mainstream with her artistic output. Over the course of a trailblazing career, the multi-hyphenate creative has earned critical acclaim for her innovative style and entrepreneurial spirit and seen her forward-thinking approach reshape pop culture in the process. Her lasting impact was cemented last year when Charli was honoured with the Visionary Award at the annual Ivor Novellos in London, while she also received the Powerhouse Award at Billboard’s Women In Music ceremony in Los Angeles in March.

Alongside her new album, Charli has been working on multiple film & TV projects following the breakout success of her Barbie soundtrack contribution ‘ Speed Drive ’ last year. She is co-executive producing the score for the A24 film ‘ Mother Mary ’ with Jack Antonoff and also producing original music for Benito Skinner ’s series ‘ Overcompensating ’ on Prime Video. In addition, Charli will star in the Daniel Goldhaber remake of 1978 cult horror film ‘ Faces of Death ’.

Follow Charli XCX:

Website | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok  

ABOUT TROYE SIVAN

Troye Sivan is a GRAMMY nominated Australian singer, songwriter and actor who has firmly established himself as a global icon in the worlds of pop music, fashion and LGBTQIA+ representation.  Over twenty-six billion streams and 10 million adjusted albums sold worldwide are milestones only a few artists can claim. Doing it by age 28 is another thing entirely. Throw in a range of standout roles in Hollywood features, high fashion collabs, runway appearances and a combined social audience of over 30 million and the list really boils down to one person – Troye Sivan.  Raised in Perth, Australia, Sivan set the world on fire with a pair of EPs – 2014’s TRXYE and 2015’s Wild . With his debut album Blue Neighbourhood , sophomore album Bloom , the 2020 EP In A Dream , and most recently his third studio album, Something To Give Each Other, as well as a slew of singles and collaborations in between, Sivan has cemented himself in the music industry with 10 years of experience under his belt. Hailed as “the perfect pop star” by TIME, Sivan’s recent hit single “Rush” earned global accolades and praise, including two GRAMMY nominations. His career has been further celebrated as the recipient of six ARIA Awards, a Billboard Music Award, three MTV Europe Music awards and two GLAAD Media Award wins. “Revelation,” his collaboration with Jónsi for BOY ERASED, was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Original Song – Motion Picture and shortlisted for an Oscar. Sivan has recently been featured in campaigns for Prada, Cartier, YSL Beauty, Calvin Klein, Valentino, Savage Fenty, and Beyoncé’s Ivy Park, and appeared in The Weeknd & Sam Levinson’s “The Idol” for MAX, alongside Lily-Rose Depp, Blackpink’s Jennie and Abel himself. He also launched Tsu Lange Yor , an independent luxury lifestyle collection of fragrances and art-driven objects.  Sivan continues to be represented by Good World Management, CAA and imPRint.

Follow Troye Sivan:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok

About Live Nation Entertainment

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com .

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nic Bestley | [email protected]

Emily Connick | [email protected]

Troye Sivan

Brett Ruttenberg | [email protected]

Live Nation Concerts

Monique Sowinski | [email protected]

Valeska Thomas | [email protected]

Read more about

• Pace of Play
• Try an Event
• Join The TOUR
• Member's Site

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is the tour.

The USGA classifies us as a “traveling tournament club” and used our club as the prototype for all such clubs across the country. The TOUR plays tournaments all around the Greater Boston/eastern New England area. We are a member club of the Massachusetts Golf Association (MGA) and the USGA, which qualifies our Members for participation in MGA and USGA sponsored events.

What's involved?

You join as a Member and that allows you to play as many or few events as you wish. We offer 50-60 events each year, half on weekday, half on weekends. The season runs from mid-April through late October.

How many events do I have to play?

One-third of our Members play only 6–10 events each year. You can play as often as you’d like (or as often as your schedule allows).

What does it cost?

The Tour annual Membership is $150. Then you just pay per event. The events are priced at normal greens fees plus the day’s prize pool fee. This membership fee includes your handicap via the GHIN service and the MGA. There is no need to join another club just to obtain a USGA handicap index.

How do I pay for events?

We accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express. We do not accept cash or checks. All Members are required to keep a credit card on file. We charge Members approximately twice per month. See all your season's transactions at a glance in the MY ACCOUNT page.

Is there a deadline to become a Tour Member?

No, we accept Membership applications all through the season, but the earlier you join, the more events you have from which to choose.

How big are the events and what can I win?

The fields can range from 20 to 80 people depending on the course and date. At least 20% of all golfers in the field will win some prize at each event. The most common form of prize is a TOUR gift certificate. TOUR certificates may be used to cover greens fees and cart fees associated with upcoming events, or can be redeemed with selected Tour Partners. At some courses we will award Pro Shop certificates for the host course.

What if I don't have an official handicap?

We provide official USGA handicaps for our Members. If you don’t have one, we can start one for you. All you need is 5 scores turned into our handicap chairman.

How do I enter and play in a TOUR event?

You quickly and easily register for events via the website. Registration usually closes 7-10 days before the event date. We post your tee time on the member's website 48 hours before the event. Some Members like to enter two or three events at a time, which is fine. If events start to fill up, we let the Membership know, via the member's website, our e-newsletter, or both. On the day of an event we suggest you arrive at the course 30 minutes before your tee time to check in at The TOUR desk, receive your scorecard, local rules, and warm-up.

What are the rules of play?

We abide by USGA rules. No gimmes, mulligans, or "winter rules." We do our best to protect the field and the integrity of the game. We also have a Rules Committee which we use as a resource for establishing TOUR local rules to govern our events.

What’s the level of competition?

We always have gross and net prizes, and the whole field is always eligible for both. 25% of the Members have a single digit handicap. Another 20% is higher than 20. If you like scratch competition, you’ll find it. If you usually shoot high 90s, you’ll find friends at that level, too. The average handicap index is 12.5. It’s always a tournament when you play—and it’s only as competitive as you want to make it.

How good do I have to be to play on The TOUR?

As a tournament club we expect you to have a working knowledge of the rules and golf etiquette. If you can break 100, you will enjoy the TOUR and have the ability to compete against the field.

How large is Membership?

The past 3 years, Membership has averaged around 400. Women comprise 5-10% of our membership.

What is your cancellation policy?

You may cancel anytime up until the registration deadline (usually 7-10 days before an event), without penalty. Between the registration deadline and 48 hours before the event, your fee is $25 unless there’s a replacement found. Inside 48 hours before the event you pay full price of the event, unless a replacement is found.

Can I bring a guest to a TOUR event?

Our first priority is to ensure that all Members who wish to play in an event have a chance to do so. We will open events to guests on an event-by-event basis when we determine that an event in not likely so sell out. Our guest fee is an additional $10 per round which is charged to your account.

Salem tour guides could soon be required to pay licensing fees

The proposed fee, paid annually, would cost tour guides with groups of 10 or less $150, groups of 11 to 29  $250, and groups of 30 to 40 $350, by jericho tran • published april 18, 2024 • updated on april 18, 2024 at 8:10 pm.

While tourism can be a real treat in Salem , Massachusetts, the city says the costs are tricky. 

“Costs are starting to get close to a point where they’ll exceed the direct revenues the city brings in from things like parking and license fees,” said Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo. 

The city can draw tens of thousands of visitors a day during the busy Halloween season . With more licensed tour guides in the city as the area continues to grow in popularity, a change in license fees was proposed during the city council meeting last week. 

According to a letter from the mayor to city councilors, there are 175 licensed tour guides in the city, up from 28 in 2006 when the original ordinance went into effect.

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Tour guides who spoke with NBC10 Boston say the proposal came as a surprise.

“We found out about this on a Wednesday night and the city council meeting was on a Thursday and so we have less than 24 hours to put our ducks in a row,” said Jeffrey Lilley, a tour guide at Salem Uncovered. 

The proposed fee, paid annually, would cost tour guides with groups of 10 or less $150, groups of 11 to 29  $250, and groups of 30 to 40 $350. It also includes a discount of $50 for guides who don't use any form of amplification.  It also increases fees for violations.

“This year, my license cost me $10. Next year they want me to pay $350. I employ a few guides in the season so that would be $1,400 that I would then I have to spend on guide fees,” said Lilley. 

While Pangallo says this should only be the difference of adding a few extra cents to ticket prices, tour guides disagree.

“To say it's just a few cents on a ticket well then that would mean me imposing on a ticket which is technically not legal.”

If passed in the public hearing, the proposal would go into effect as soon as January 2025. 

“Hopefully we come out with a resolution that fits everyone's needs, and is something we can shoulder and something that's gonna benefit the city,” said Lilley. 

More from Salem

Man charged in pipe bombing of Satanic Temple in Salem

Salem weighs ‘no camping' order to ban homeless people's tents

Where's Hannah? Exploring the Harbor Sweets Factory in Salem

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How much of the Masters purse did winner Scottie Scheffler get?

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: April 15, 2024 / 8:49 AM EDT / CBS News

A low score at the Masters at Augusta means a high payout for professional golfers.

The total purse for the 2024 Masters is $20 million, a record high, and up $2 million from last year. Tournament champion Scottie Scheffler took home a record $3.6 million — $360,000 more than last year's winner earned. Scheffler, who is American, also won the tournament in 2022, when he netted $2.7 million of a $15 million purse. 

In 2023, tournament winner John Rahm took home a $3.24 million payout in prize money, a nice chunk of that year's tournament's total $18 million purse. 

The remainder of the purse was split among 50 golfers, with the tournament's two runners-up taking home $1.6 million each in prize money. Only three golfers earned seven figures, based on how they placed. 

The purse for the 2024 competition at Augusta was announced Saturday. Following tradition, it is announced during, as opposed to in advance of the tournament. 

The 2024 Masters purse payout breakdown is as follows, with the top 50 golfers receiving cash prizes ranging from $3.6 million to $50,400. The remaining professionals, who do not place in the top 50, receive cash prices ranging downward from $49,200, based on their scores. Notably, amateurs do not earn money to compete. The first year the masters was played, in 1934, the purse was $5,000 and the winner took home $1,500. 

• Purse: $20 million
• Winner:  $3.6 million
• Second Place:  $2.16 million
• Third Place:  $1.36 million
• Fourth Place: $960,000
• Fifth Place:  $800,000
• Sixth Place: $720,000
• Seventh Place: $670,000
• Eighth Place: $620,000
• Ninth Place: $580,000
• Tenth Place: $540,000

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News Streaming to discuss her reporting.

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