Boston travel guide: things you must see

Boston is an exciting city, with a never-ending stream of history to uncover and hidden gems to discover. The unique array of things to do makes Boston one of the best cities to rent a van and explore with your friends or family. Together, you can walk the Freedom Trail, cheer on the Red Sox, and indulge in a lobster feast, all in the span of a day!

To make the most of your group getaway, we’ve compiled the ultimate Boston travel guide that caters to travelers of all ages. Here’s what you need to know about transportation, family-friendly activities, day trips, and more.

Getting around Boston

So, you’ve landed in Boston’s Logan Airport or arrived at South Station. Now what? There are several convenient ways to get around Beantown as a group. You can:

• Take public transportation: Known by locals as the “T”, Boston’s extensive transportation system includes the subway, rail, bus, and ferry. 
• Walk or bike: Get your steps in while sightseeing by walking or cycling around town. Historic Boston is quite compact and easy to get around.
• Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are widely available for transport in Boston.
• Boston van rental: Possibly the most hassle-free mode of transportation available, renting a van in Boston is comfortable, spacious, and cost-efficient. Save time you might otherwise spend getting lost on the subway, waiting for an overpriced rideshare, or convincing the little ones to walk just a few blocks more. A van gives you room to relax between sites and the freedom to come and go as you please.

To rent a van in Boston, start by filling out our simple online form. Once your transportation is secure, it’s time to craft an amazing itinerary!

Boston’s family-friendly activities

Boston is brimming with activities for families, so whether you’ve got little kids, big kids, or a mix of both, you won’t run out of entertainment. Narrowing down the list to something manageable is key to a fun and relaxed trip. Here’s a handful of Boston’s most exciting family-friendly destinations.

Boston Children’s Museum

Future engineers or budding artists of any age will feel inspired on a visit to the country’s second oldest Children’s Museum. There are many unique opportunities for kids you won’t find in most museums: learning to safely use tools in Johnny’s Workbench, build a house in Fantastic Forts, or dance like a ballerina on KidStage. Don’t forget to validate your parking at one of the garages nearby before leaving the museum.

Franklin Park Zoo

Take a break from the city and head to any of the following destinations: the Serengeti, the Outback, a working farm, a grove of gorillas – and that’s just a few examples! The Franklin Park Zoo tops the list of most Boston travel guides for its breadth of exotic animals and full schedule of keeper talks. Parking is free at any of the three lots close by.

Legoland Discovery Center

Discovering Boston is a blast. Discovering Boston made entirely of LEGOS? Possibly the highlight of your kid’s trip, especially those ages three to ten. In addition, there are creative workshops, a 4D cinema, and LEGO-themed rides. And if that’s not enough, you’ll even get the chance to meet your favorite characters in real life! Because the kids will surely be tuckered out after a morning at Legoland, secure your Boston van rental so they can nap on the 15-minute ride back to the city.

Skywalk Observatory

A stop at the Skywalk Observatory is a must whether it’s your first or 14th visit to Boston. From here, you can see up to 40 miles of cityscape on a clear day, taking in bird’s-eye views of Boston Common, the Charles River, and the State House.

Top attractions and landmarks in Boston

Expect one of the oldest cities in the U.S.A. to have a long, fascinating list of must-see landmarks. Figuring out what you have time for depends on how many days you plan to stay and the transportation you use. A van rental will make it simple to visit the most popular destinations.

Freedom Trail

The 2.5-mile pathway is flush with historical monuments – 16, to be exact. Each tells a piece of the incredible story of the nation’s fight for independence. Be sure to check out Faneuil Hall, a meeting hall for revolutionaries that’s now a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, and street performers.

Fenway Park

What’s a trip to Beantown with a look at the oldest ballpark in the U.S.A.? Fenway’s vintage appeal attracts even those with no interest in baseball. Catch a game, see a concert, or take a tour through the tiny baseball field with a big history. 

Boston Common and Public Garden

Getting to know a new city means a lot of movement. It’s crucial to incorporate some downtime, and what better place to enjoy a picnic or relax among flowers than in Boston’s oldest public park? Pack a to-go lunch basket and blanket in your van rental for a delightful outdoor meal beneath the trees. 

Museum of Fine Arts

Do you like visual art? Sculpture? Historical artifacts? Photography? You can find all of this and more in Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the Americas. 

New England Aquarium

Turtles, penguins, sharks, oh my! The water-loving creatures you can see and touch at the aquarium are vast, and the daily presentations are captivating. If you like marine life, you can’t miss a visit to its multi-story ocean tank housing everything from seahorses to bright coral.

Boston Harbor and Waterfront

No matter who you’re traveling with, there is something for everyone at the Boston Harbor and Waterfront. You’ll find it all – museums, restaurants, shops, and parks. For a truly special experience, sign up for a harbor cruise and soak up the city skyline from the water.

Historical sites in Boston

At one time, this thriving metropolis of quaint neighborhoods and exceptional dining was a hotbed of revolutionary activity. Its rebellious nature led to a pivotal turning point in U.S. history, meaning there are dozens upon dozens of historical sites to see.

The Paul Revere House

The well-preserved 17th-century house offers visitors a glimpse into the life of revolutionary Paul Revere and his fight for his country’s independence from Great Britain. 

Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

History is brought to life at this interactive museum, where visitors can board precise replicas of the ships used in the infamous tea party incident.  

Old North Church

The city’s oldest surviving church is also the starting point of the American Revolution, where Paul Revere ordered the history-defining signal to soldiers that the British were coming. 

Massachusetts State House

With its iconic golden dome and grand architectural design, the prominent landmark is found on every Boston travel guide and open to the public for tours.

Neighborhoods to explore in Boston

Boston’s vibrant energy is no doubt the result of its beautiful architecture, immense history, and diverse culture. Each of its neighborhoods has its own personality and many are worth exploring.

Back Bay

Sophisticated and elegant, Back Bay is known for brownstone townhomes and tree-lined streets. 

Don’t miss: Peek into the lives of a wealthy Boston family between the late 19th and early 20th centuries at the Gibson House Museum.

North End

Dive into a bowl of fresh pasta and explore the area once home to most of Boston’s Italian immigrants in the late 19th century. 

Don’t miss: Tucking into a can’t-miss cannoli at Modern Pastry or Mike’s Pastry.

Beacon Hill

For a quintessential Boston experience, wander down the winding streets and red brick houses of Beacon Hill, often portrayed by artists and local photographers.

Don’t miss: Visit the Charles Street Meeting House, once a meeting place for African Americans during the 18th century.

South End

Traditional meets modern in this buzzing neighborhood of boutique shops and international cuisine.

Don’t miss: Live music in The Beehive, one of Boston’s most well-loved venues.

Harvard Square

Cambridge’s center of student life is known for an eclectic mix of independent shops and cozy cafes amid one of the country’s most coveted university campuses.

Don’t miss: A spin through Harvard’s legendary bookstore, the Coop.

Outdoor activities, parks, and more in Boston

Our Boston travel guide comprises everything under the sun – literally! From parks to gardens, there are dozens of things to do outside. If Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, we’ve included alternative markets and eateries to check out. 

Charles River Esplanade

Enjoy Boston’s proximity to the Charles River at the Esplanade, where you can stroll a scenic path or rent a boat for rowing. Moreover, there are playgrounds, summer concerts, and areas for picnicking.  

Boston Harbor Islands

Just a short ferry ride away is a world of nature. 34 islands make up the National State Park, with activities ranging from camping to kayaking and landmarks including forts and ruins.

Arnold Arboretum 

The designer of NYC’s Central Park also created this peaceful garden oasis in the middle of Cambridge, a short drive from downtown Boston. 

Rose Kennedy Greenway

As one of the most dynamic parks in any city, the Greenway has something going on at all times of day. Take a yoga class, admire public art, nosh at a food cart, or take a whirl on the dreamy carousel.

Shop ‘til you drop in Boston

Boston’s a great place to go shopping and nowhere is the variety more apparent than in these particular places. From high-end Newbury Street to bohemian artisanal Quincy Market, luxury Copley Place to the animated Faneuil Hall, shoppers of all styles will stuff their shopping bags in Beantown.

Iconic Boston food and drink 

A thorough Boston travel guide won’t skip over the most important part – food! And Boston’s got plenty to try. Fill up on iconic bites like lobster rolls and clam chowder, dine in waterfront restaurants, and bar hop in South End or Back Bay.

Day trips from Boston

Why not take advantage of an unlimited mileage package and explore some famous places just outside of Boston? Here’s a short list of fantastic destinations you can visit from the city in a day.

• Salem: Learn about the famous witch trials, visit its charming shops, and enjoy the vibrant dining culture, all just 25 miles north of Boston.
• Cape Cod: Explore the peninsula’s 15 quaint seaside towns 70 miles south of Boston, each with its own personality. Relax on the beach, visit art galleries, and indulge in fresh seafood.
• Plymouth: Just 40 miles south of Beantown is “America’s Hometown,” where the Pilgrims landed in 1620. Immerse yourself in American history at Plymouth Rock before a stroll through the lovely downtown.

Concord and Lexington: Here is where the first battle of the Revolutionary War kicked off America’s campaign for independence. Visit historic homes, walk Battle Road, and revel in the beautiful scenery found only 20 miles north.

Tips for travelers while sightseeing around Boston

To ensure your Boston trip is as satisfying as a fresh lobster roll, consider the following tips before you go.

• Safety: Travel is exciting, but it can also be unpredictable. Be prepared for anything by bringing a first aid kit, necessary medications, and a fully charged mobile phone. Check out our post of 30 road trip essentials, which includes tips on safety.
• Budgeting: For some strange reason, charges seem to rack up more easily while on vacation. Avoid sticker shock by pre-planning your spending. Create a daily budget, including van rental fees, parking costs, lodging, meals, and stick to it.
• Local contacts: Know exactly how to contact the local police and hospital. If you’re renting a van in Boston, save the emergency number in case of a mechanical issue. Have on hand the address and phone number to your accommodations, as well.
• Planning your itinerary: Have an idea of what you want to see and do and group according to location. If you’re driving, maximize your time on the road by virtually pinning the most convenient rest stops, gas stations, and parking lots.

Getting the most of your Boston trip with a Greenvans rental

Make the best of your trip to Boston with a spacious van rental from Greenvans. It’s an efficient way to see the best of the city without sacrificing time on public transportation and money on rideshares. 

There’s so much to do and see in one of U.S.A.’s oldest cities, and you can enjoy it all, together, by securing a comfortable rental van in Boston. Our booking system is simple – fill out an online form with your travel dates and desired pick up location. Flying into Logan International? We can deliver your van to the airport!

Is renting a van in Boston starting to sound like a good idea? Our customers sure think so. Here are a few testimonials we’ve received:

“Could not have imagined a better passenger van rental experience with Greenvans. Their team was available for any questions and help 24/7. We were a group of 15 and we all fit very comfortably. Lots of safety features as well. Excellent service!”

Eric S.

“Incredible customer service. Very accommodating and very fast response time. Vans are really new/clean and have low mileage. I cannot say enough good things about my experience with this company and specifically the representative I spoke with several times. After my experience with them, I’m a loyal customer for life.”

Anya D.

“If you need a van for vacation or for your band, this is the place to go. Hands down the easiest experience ever. The vans are in mint shape and drive perfectly.”

Kris M.

FAQs about things to do in Boston

How many days are enough for Boston? 

Three to four days is a sufficient amount of time for first-time visitors to Boston. Consider adding on an extra day if you’d like to take a road trip.

What do I need to know before traveling to Boston? 

Before traveling to Boston, don’t forget to:

• Check the weather: Boston can get chilly in the winter and warm in the summer, so prepare accordingly.
• Plan your itinerary: There’s a lot to see here – decide which destinations are most important and organize them by location.
• Rent a van: If you’re traveling with a group, renting a van for everyone will make it easy to get from place to place. Book ahead of time to ensure availability. 
• Make reservations ahead of time: Including hotel rooms, popular shows, restaurant reservations, and Red Sox tickets.

What is the best month to go to Boston? 

The best months to go to Boston are May and October, when the weather is temperate and the crowds are still manageable. 

How much money do I need for 5 days in Boston?

A budget-friendly trip to Boston will realistically cost between $1,000 and $1,500 per person, including transportation, spending money, accommodations, and attractions. The number will vary according to your travel style and desired level of luxury.

Enjoy the gems of Boston in comfort and style – Get your free van rental quote today!