Top Attractions for First-Time Visitors
You’ll need more than a long weekend to check out all that Boston has to offer, but you can enjoy some of the city’s highlights if you plan carefully. Here are some of Boston’s top attractions for first-time visitors:
Freedom Trail
One of the best ways to experience revolutionary Boston is by following the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail. This red-brick walking path winds past 16 of the city’s most significant historic sites from Boston Common to the Bunker Hill Monument. Popular stops include Faneuil Hall, the Old North Church, and the USS Constitution. Guided tours are available, but you can also explore at your own pace with a free app. Allow 2-3 hours minimum to fully experience the trail.
Fenway Park
You can’t visit Boston without stopping into “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark.” Fenway Park has been home to the Boston Red Sox since 1912. Baseball fans can take a tour that includes access to the press box, field, and dugout when games aren’t scheduled. If possible, try to catch an actual game to see the park full of fans and enjoy the electric atmosphere. Game tickets sell out quickly, so plan ahead.
New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium has delighted visitors since 1969 with its impressive collection of marine life. Get up close with sharks, sea turtles, sting rays, and more than 30,000 fish in the Giant Ocean Tank. Check out the daily animal shows and feedings including the lively penguin parade. Whale watch cruises and behind-the-scenes tours are also available. The aquarium is located right on the waterfront and is accessible by public transportation.
Museum of Fine Arts
Art lovers flock to Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, which has one of the most comprehensive art collections in the United States. The museum’s highlights include an entire wing devoted to Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works and impressive collections of Asian art, Egyptian artifacts, and American art. Classic masterpieces, fascinating special exhibitions, and innovative interactive displays make this a must-see. Visitors should plan on spending at least half a day here.
Harvard University
Get a taste of prestigious Harvard University on a student-led campus tour. Stroll through Harvard Yard and hear stories about John Harvard’s bronze statue, the historic red-brick dorms, and the academic buildings where many influential leaders studied. Public tours are only offered on weekdays during the school year and often book up far in advance. If available, add on a visit to Harvard’s museums like the Natural History Museum or the Museum of Natural Science.
Shopping in Back Bay
Back Bay offers some of the best shopping in Boston. Head to the high-end boutiques and flagship stores along Newbury and Boylston Streets. Or pop into the Prudential Center and Copley Place for major department stores. Don’t miss charming Clarendon Street for its quaint cafes, boutiques and bakeries. Back Bay also borders the lovely Public Garden and the beginning of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall pedestrian path.
North End
The North End transports visitors back in time to Boston’s “Little Italy” neighborhood.Walking along narrow, cobblestone streets past historic churches and row houses feels more like Europe than the United States. Make sure to stop into an authentic Italian bakery or cafe during your visit. The North End is also home to the historic Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. Time your visit around mealtime if possible.
How to Get Around Boston
Depending on where you are staying, getting around Boston can be a breeze or a major headache for first-time visitors. Consider these transportation options as you plan:
Public Transportation
Boston’s MBTA subway system, known locally as “the T,” is usually the fastest and cheapest way to get around the city without a car. Trains run frequently and service popular destinations like Fenway Park, the waterfront, theaters, museums, and more. The T operates from about 5 a.m. until midnight. Purchase a reloadable CharlieCard for the best rates. The MBTA also operates buses around the city, but routes are more limited than the train lines. The Silver Line is a bus rapid transit service that connects the airport to downtown and the Seaport District. Above ground routes can get slowed down in Boston’s notorious traffic.
Taxis and Rideshares
You’ll have no issue flagging down an iconic yellow Boston taxi, especially around hotels and major attractions. Keep in mind that taxis line up more sporadically outside the city center. You’ll also find rideshare services like Uber and Lyft in abundance.
Charter Buses
For large groups or trips to attractions outside the city center, consider a charter bus. Boston Party Bus Company offers comfortable, convenient transportation for groups of any size. Our modern buses feature amenities like WiFi, entertainment systems, and USB ports to make your time on board enjoyable. You’ll avoid the stress of driving and parking while our professional driver navigates you around Boston’s winding streets. Charter buses allow groups to stay together while enjoying door-to-door service. Give us a call at 857-317-8503 for a personalized quote!
Ready to Get Started?
We hope this first timer’s guide provides a helpful overview for planning your group’s visit to Boston! The city offers nearly endless options for experiencing history, culture, sports, shopping, and dining. Let Boston Party Bus Company handle your transportation so you can focus on creating lasting memories. Call 857-317-8503 today to request a quote or learn more about our charter bus services. We look forward to helping your group explore amazing Boston!