Boston Harbor
Although it can often feel muggy on hot days, summertime in Boston also brings out some of the city’s best activities—like yoga in the park, outdoor festivals, and sitting on patios enjoying local seafood. Here are some summer ideas to consider working into your visit to Boston:
1. Oldies at the Hatch Shell. As part of the 103.3 WODS Free Summer Concert Series, the Hatch Shell, an open-air stadium at the Esplanade, hosts outdoor music performances for any visitors and locals who want a little musical nostalgia. 2012 will see performances from groups such as the Boston Pops, Burton Cummings of The Guess Who, and Rick Springfield. Shows begin around 7pm (get there early; no alcohol).
2. Get out of the city. You can take a ferry for $15 to the Boston Harbor Islands, then have a picnic or go for a walk around some of the 35 miles of undeveloped shoreline. There are a dozen islands with loads of activities—such as Georges Island (with a Civil War-era fort) and Spectacle Island (sandy beach with panoramic views of the city). You can also go fishing or kayaking. You’d never know while in downtown Boston that a peaceful summer afternoon of quiet wildlife-watching is so close by.
3. Cool off. Let the kids burn off that energy in one of the many wading pools in the Boston area (admission is free). Splashing around in spraying fountains is a great way to enjoy the summertime—just make sure to keep an eye on the kids, since there are no lifeguards and certain parts of the pools can be several feet deep.
4. Public Library concerts. In the Central Library in Copley Square, visitors can catch free performances every Friday—from jazz to folk to classical genres. Check the schedule to time your visit with your favorite.
5. Boston Beer Marathon. On July 14th (2012) you can get to know Boston’s bar/pub scene intimately while helping the National Multiple Sclerosis Society raise funds during the Great Boston Beer Marathon, now in its seventh year. One day, 26 bars (or however many you can handle)—the price includes an official t-shirt, raffle entry, discounted bar fare and all the party essentials like Mardi Gras Beads and a Viking helmet. If you don’t feel like running the 26-mile Boston Marathon, this is a great alternative, and it’s no coincidence there are exactly 26 bars!
Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Boston tours and things to do, Boston attractions and Boston travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Boston for a customized tour!