What are the BEST things to do in the spring in Boston? Who puts on a great walking tour? I have the kids for the day - where should I take them? Where are the best beaches? Where can I have a BBQ with family and friends?
These are questions that I get asked by not only clients and tourists, but locals alike. This is why I've put together this list of Top 10 Things to do in Boston during the springtime!
No one is more familiar with the winter woes like Bostonians. However, when spring FINALLY arrives, there is nothing that will stop the locals from getting outside to enjoy the beautiful weather! As a long time Boston resident, I have taken advantage of many sunny spring days, getting out, exploring, and experiencing all that this city has to offer.
When my friends, family members and clients are looking for recommendations of the Best Things to do in Boston in the Spring, THIS LIST is the list that I give them. In my 100% unbiased opinion - these places and activities are the absolute top things you shouldn’t miss this spring in the Boston area.
I hope you enjoy exploring and experiencing all that Boston has to offer during this amazing time of year!
If you’re interested in more Boston area recommendations, give me a call or sign up for my mailing list where I share everything I know about Real Estate and living in the Boston, Massachusetts.
Top Things To-Do This Spring in Boston
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Best Day Tours
Fenway Park
One of America’s most famous ballparks is open for day tours and is the perfect activity for any baseball fan! Come and see the home of Red Sox Legends Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, Pedro Martinez, Roger Clemens and David Ortiz. You will also get the opportunity to sit on top of the iconic left-field wall, the Green Monster! You are able to buy tickets directly from the box office, however get there early. Tickets sell out fast!
Insider’s Quote: “Being from the Boston area, I have gone to my fair share of Red Sox games, but the day tour gives you a whole different perspective of Fenway Park. You get a chance to feel the history that the stadium embodies and where many legends have played."
Where: 4 Jersey St. Boston, MA 02127
Hours: In-Season: No game: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. - Game day: 9 a.m.-15 minutes after game ends
Off-season: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m
Buy Tickets: Click here
Phone Number: (877) 733-7699
Website: Click here
The Duck Tours
If you’ve ever walked through downtown Boston, then you’ve probably spotted these iconic World War II vehicles with the big yellow duck on the side, cruising past Boston’s famous and historical landmarks. What truly separates them from ordinary trolleys however, is that during your ride your “DUCK” vehicle splashes right into the Charles River, where you will experience a can't-miss boat ride of the Boston Waterfront with breathtaking views of Boston and Cambridge. Remember, there are multiple pick-up and drop-off locations, so be sure to check their map to see what ticket location is closest and most convenient to you!
Insider’s Quote: “You can’t come to Boston and NOT do the duck tours.”
Where: Departs from the Muesum of Science, Prudential Center, and the New England Aquarium.
Hours: Mon - Fri 10:00am - 5:00pm, Sat + Sun 10:00am - 6:00pm
Phone Number: (617) 267-3825
Website: Click here
Tour of The Freedom Trail
The New England Patriots football team didn’t just get their name from anywhere! One of the oldest and most famous tours in Boston, you get to walk right into the history that started it all! On the tour, you will learn about the colonial era, and how Boston's rambunctious residents turned this city into the heart of the American Revolution! Keep in mind that you do have the option to walk the route on your own, however I highly suggest taking one of the tours with one of the colonial-dressed tour guides. Most of the guides are reenactors, and history of this time period is their passion. The true story will be brought to life, and I guarantee that any kids in your group will love learning about the tour guide’s character!
Insider’s Quote: “A great way to 'time travel' as some of Boston’s great historic sights are right in the middle of today’s bustling downtown. Be sure to take the T as well, to round out your authentic Boston experience.”
Where: 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111
Hours: Open Everyday, 7:00am - 9:00pm
Phone Number: (617) 635-4505
Website: Click here
The Swan Boats
Gliding across the Boston Public Gardens lagoon since 1877, the Swan Boats have certainly become one of Boston’s most recognizable icons. The Swan Boat ride lasts about 12-15 minutes while the driver pedals you around the pond. During the ride, you’re able to feed the ducks and swans so be sure to bring some pieces of bread with you! If you’re visiting Boston for the first time, make sure this is high on your list. Nothing captures the beauty of the Public Gardens and the essence of Boston like the Swan Boats!
Where: 4 Charles St S, Boston, MA 02116
Hours: Spring Hours (till June 20th) 10:00am - 4:00pm, Summer Hours (starting June 21st) 10:00am - 5:00pm. Open everyday, weather permitting.
Phone Number: (617) 522-1966
Website: Click here
Best Places to go With Kids
Franklin Park Zoo
Have the day off and looking for something fun to do with your family? Look no further than Franklin Park Zoo right here in Boston! The zoo is home to an array of different animals, including lions, crocodiles, tigers and gorillas. Meet all of their animal residents here!
Already been to the Zoo? Make sure you check our their calendar of events! They always have something exciting going on including “Breakfast with the Animals” and “Snorin' Roarin' Sleepovers”. To check out all of their scheduled programs, click here.
Where: 1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121
Hours: Mon - Fri 10:00am - 5:00pm, Sat + Sun 10:00am - 6:00pm
Phone Number: (617) 727-5290
Website: Click here
Big Apple Circus
Get ready to be astonished under the big top! From trapeze artists, daredevils, to jugglers and acrobats, the Big Apple Circus will bring you and your family wonder and awe! If I had to pick a personal favorite act of the show, it would be Nik Wallenda and the cyclists on the high wire - but that’s only if I had to choose! It was a smaller venue, so we felt closer to the show and all of the little ones could see!
Where: 355 Artisan Way, Somerville MA 02145
When: Tickets available through May 13th
Tickets: Click here
Phone Number: (646) 793-9313
Website: Click here
Best Beaches
Castle Island Beach
There is no greater sign of Spring than when Sullivan’s opens their doors at Castle Island! A South Boston local favorite, there was no way that Castle Island wasn’t going to make this list. Castle Island is a great spot for swimming, getting a bite at Sullivan’s, and walking right along the oceanfront. With no admission fees and plenty of free parking, what are you waiting for?
Insider’s Quote: “We love staying at Castle Island until dusk - the crowds start to thin out, and you can catch some gorgeous sunsets in addition to the city view. Also fun to sit back and watch the planes coming in to land at Logan. Surprisingly relaxing!”
Where: 2010 William J Day Blvd, Boston, MA 02127
Hours: Open Everyday, 7:00am - 6:00pm
Phone Number: (617) 727-5290
Website: Click here
Spectacle Island
Looking to escape downtown Boston on a hot spring day? Look no further than Spectacle Island, which has perhaps the best beach in the Boston area. In just a 20 minutes boat ride, you’ve arrived at your perfect Boston day-trip! Not only can you swim at their many beaches (supervised by trained lifeguards) but you can also go hiking, boating, and visit their “green” visitor center where you can learn about the history and evolution of the island.
Where: 47 David G Mugar Way, Boston, MA 02108
Ferry Schedule: Click here
Website: Click here
Best Festivals and Fundraisers
Source: Franklin Park Coalition
FPC Kite & Bike Festival
Mark your calendars - the KPC Kite & Bike Festival is not to be missed! Put on by the Franklin Park Coalition, the Kite and Bike festival is great for all ages and is one of our favorite days in the spring! Whether you want to fly a kite (you can buy on their or bring your own kite) or simply visit the food trucks, craft vendors, and BBQ with friends and family, there is something here for everyone! You also have the option to ride to the festival or rent a bike for free from Boston Bikes (bikes with training wheels available) and join a bike tour of the park.
When: May 19th 2018, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Where: Franklin Park Golf Course, 1 Circuit Dr, Dorchester, MA 02121
Phone Number: (617) 442 4141
Website: Click here
Jimmy Fund’s Scooper Bowl
All-you-can-eat delicious ice cream in the heart of downtown Boston? A fundraiser for the Jimmy Fund which raises funds for adult and pediatric cancer care and research to improve the chances of survival for cancer patients around the world? SIGN US UP! Just kidding - we've already purchased our tickets and reserved our spot! As a tip, if you know you will be there, buy your tickets in advance as price increases at the door. We hope to see you there for this great cause!
Where: One City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA 02114
When: June 5th-7th 2018, 12:00pm– 8:00pm
Tickets: Click here
Phone Number: 617.267.3825
Website: Click here
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Meet Robert
Father, Husband, House Flipper, workout enthusiast, Boston-based real estate expert, and Broker & Founder of Boston Trust Realty Group. When I’m not helping local residents sell or buy their dream homes, I’m spending time with my wife and kids, exploring Boston’s bustling and ever-changing neighborhoods!