Boston, sometimes known as "America's Walking City," has a wide range of varied activities for visitors on a budget. Like most of America's major cities, Boston has something for everybody. Whether you want to take a brewery tour, enjoy a stroll in a historic park, enjoy a visit to a museum or learn more about America's history, Boston has it all and is giving it away for free.
Historical Sights and Monuments
A number of Boston's historical attractions offer free admission and tours. The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides," is America's oldest commissioned warship and offers free tours. Visit the Bunker Hill Monument, which commemorates the battle of Bunker Hill, and walk the 294 steps to the building's peak for free panoramic views of Boston's rich, towering skyline. Stop by downtown Boston's Old Custom House, which, at 16 floors high, is the city's first skyscraper.
Brewery Tours
The Sam Adams Brewery offers free tours Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Free samples are available for legal-aged guests carrying valid photo identification. The Harpoon Brewery also offers free tastings of both Harpoon and UFO beers on Mondays and Tuesdays at 4:00 p.m. and Wednesday through Friday at 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Parks
Take a relaxing stroll or pack a picnic and find a quiet spot in the Boston Common or the Christian Science Center. The Boston Common is a 50-acre park located in the heart of the city and is America's oldest park. It also serves as the start point of the Freedom Trail, Boston's historic walking tour. The Christian Science Center's reflecting pool helps create a relaxing atmosphere in an otherwise busy, lively neighborhood in downtown Boston.
Museums and Galleries
Boston is home to dozens of museums and galleries, but only some offer free admission. The Institute of Contemporary Art, near Haymarket, offers free admission and regularly updates their collection. Take a stroll down Newbury Street for window shopping and visit some of its many art galleries. Boston University's Coit Observatory opens its doors to the public every Wednesday night for free stargazing; stargazing begins at 7:30 p.m. during fall and winter, 8:30 p.m. during spring and summer.
Walking Tours
The Freedom Trail, which starts at the Boston Common, is a 2.5 mile walking path that will take you past most of the city's historic monuments and sights. The path is paved with red brick, so you can't miss it. Stop by the visitor's center before you take the walk for a free pamphlet and map. Take a walk through Harvard's Arnold Arboretum and take in the constantly changing foliage. Stop by the arboretum's visitor center for a guide on seasonal plants and birdwatching.
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