One of America’s most historic cities, Boston has a culture all of its own. Sports fanatics, an incredible arsenal of universities, a myriad of the most historic sites from the Revolutionary War and some serious New England charm are just a few of the things that make Beantown great. Best of all, you don’t have to spend a pretty penny to dig into this city. Here are six ways to explore Boston on the cheap.
The Freedom Trail
A must-do for any first-time visitor to Beantown, The Freedom Trail is a two-and-a-half-mile walk along a brick trail that will lead you to the 16 most historic sites in Boston, including Paul Revere’s house, the Old South Meeting House, where the call for the Boston Tea Party was made, and the site of the Boston Massacre.
Bunker Hill Monument
A stop on the Boston Freedom Trail, but worth its own mention, the Bunker Hill Monument commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill, the first major battle in what would become the Revolutionary War. Today, a 221-foot pillar stands at this battleground, and if you’re feeling energetic, you can climb the 294 steps (there are no elevators) to the top of the monument for free. You’ll be rewarded at the top with some of the best views of Boston.
Boston HarborWalk
Take a stroll along the Boston HarborWalk for a look at the scenic waterfront, as well as public art, historic sites and parks. You can download a free audio tour of the Boston HarborWalk to discover all sorts of hidden treasures and sites during your visit to the harbor.
New England Aquarium
While you’re making your way along the harbor, stop in for a visit with the harbor seals, sea lions and penguins at the New England Aquarium. Marvel at the sharks and sea turtles in the Giant Ocean Tank, then see the great white sharks and penguins in 3D at the aquarium’s IMAX theater.
Fenway Park
See the Red Sox play at one of America’s most famous baseball stadiums with a visit to Fenway Park, now more than 100 years old. Even if you can’t catch a Sox game, you can join a tour of America’s Most Beloved Ballpark all year long. Adult tickets are $18 each, while a ticket for a child, senior or student on the public tours is $12.
Samuel Adams Brewery
For the love of beer, stop by the Samuel Adams Brewery for a one-hour tour. You’ll learn about Samuel Adams as both a brewer and a patriot, see the brewery and taste three of the house brews. Plus, you get to keep your tasting glass. Tours are free, though $2 donations are suggested to support local charities.
Looking for more free and cheap things to do in Boston? Here are a few extra ideas:
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts on a Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. when there is a suggested donation, but no general admission fee required.
- Check out the night sky at Boston University’s Coit Observatory. Free observations are available Wednesdays starting at 7:30 p.m. in the fall and winter and 8:30 p.m. in the spring and summer.
- Kayak on the Charles River starting at $15 per hour (or $20 for two in a double kayak).
(Main image: Manu_H)
