If you’re planning a trip to Boston, a whale watching cruise is an unforgettable way to see a completely different side of New England.

Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s most iconic neighborhoods—and for first-time visitors, it truly feels like stepping back in time.

Released in 2006 and directed by Martin Scorsese, The Departed brought Hollywood straight into the heart of Boston — filming on real streets, in real neighborhoods, and in front of landmarks locals recognize instantly.

One of the best ways to experience Boston is through its food. From cannoli-filled streets in the North End to waterfront lobster rolls and historic taverns, Boston food tours combine incredible bites with the stories that shaped the city.

The Harborwalk stretch from Long Wharf to the New England Aquarium is one of the easiest and most rewarding waterfront walks in Boston. It’s short, flat, full of classic harbor views, and perfect for first-time visitors, families with strollers, or anyone wanting a relaxed way to experience the city by the water.

If you’re planning a trip to Boston, one of the most unforgettable historical experiences you can have is visiting USS Constitution, affectionately known as Old Ironsides.

The Black Heritage Trail shines a spotlight on Boston’s 19th-century African American community and their critical role in shaping the city and the nation. It is a must-do experience tucked in the historic streets of Beacon Hill.

In the heart of Boston Common stands one of Boston’s most thought-provoking memorials: The Embrace. This powerful sculpture honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, while also recognizing Boston’s deep connection to the civil rights movement.

If you’re visiting Boston with kids and want 1 day that’s easy, walkable, and packed with variety, it’s hard to beat the area around Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and the New England Aquarium.

If you’re looking for a Boston attraction that truly brings history to life—and keeps kids fully engaged—the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum should be high on your list.

The City Cruises Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise is one of the best experiences you can add to your itinerary.

This guide breaks down exactly where first-time visitors should eat, whether you want a quick iconic bite, a sit-down meal, or something sweet while sightseeing in Boston.

Explore Boston without a car using hop-on hop-off trolley tours. Learn Boston history from live narrators while visiting top attractions at your own pace.

National Park Service-led free guided tours of the Boston Freedom Trail are one of the best ways to experience Boston.

With its iconic golden dome, rich Revolutionary-era history, and free public access, it’s an excellent stop for first-time visitors who want to better understand Boston’s role in shaping the nation.

If you’re planning a trip to Boston with kids—or just love marine life and ocean experiences—the New England Aquarium is one of the city’s most unforgettable attractions.

If you’re visiting Boston with kids, Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market are two stops that check a lot of boxes: history, food everyone can agree on, room to wander, and plenty of entertainment without needing a formal itinerary.

If you’re visiting Boston for the first time—or even the tenth—the Boston Freedom Trail is one experience you simply can’t miss.

One of the best surprises for first-time visitors is how easy it is to explore Boston without renting a car.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, these iconic Boston attractions are the ones you truly shouldn’t skip.