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Things to do for free

Boston offers plenty of free activities for those looking to explore the city without spending a dime. Beyond the famous landmarks, you can enjoy a variety of experiences, from parks and historical sites to free events and outdoor activities. Here are some great things to do for free in Boston:

Explore the Rose Kennedy Greenway

This urban park stretches through the heart of the city, offering public art installations, food trucks, and beautiful gardens. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or just enjoying the outdoor spaces.

  • Location: From North End to Chinatown.

Walk the Boston Harborwalk

The Boston Harborwalk is a scenic path that runs along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the harbor. It’s a peaceful place to walk, bike, or sit and watch the boats go by.

  • Location: Extends along the Boston waterfront from Charlestown to Dorchester.

Free Friday Flicks at the Hatch Shell (Summer Only)

Enjoy free outdoor movie screenings during the summer months at the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a movie under the stars.

  • Location: Charles River Esplanade, near Back Bay.

Visit the Boston Public Market

While the food and products aren’t free, wandering through the Boston Public Market is an experience in itself. You can check out local vendors, artisans, and enjoy live demonstrations or free samples.

  • Location: 100 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02108.

Free Tours of Harvard University

Harvard offers free student-led walking tours of its historic campus. You’ll get to see Harvard Yard, learn about the university’s history, and experience the academic atmosphere.

  • Location: Harvard Square, Cambridge.

Walk the Commonwealth Avenue Mall

This tree-lined promenade runs through the Back Bay neighborhood and is filled with statues, memorials, and historic homes. It’s a great place for a peaceful stroll.

  • Location: Commonwealth Avenue, from Arlington St. to Massachusetts Ave.

Attend a Free Concert or Event at the Boston Public Library

The Boston Public Library often hosts free concerts, lectures, and events open to the public. Check their schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.

  • Location: 700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116.

Explore the Arnold Arboretum

The Arnold Arboretum is a 281-acre botanical garden managed by Harvard University. It’s open to the public year-round and offers beautiful walking paths, rare plant species, and peaceful scenery.

  • Location: 125 Arborway, Boston, MA 02130.

Check Out Free Events on the Boston Common

Boston Common frequently hosts free events, including festivals, outdoor theater performances, and community gatherings. The Shakespeare on the Common event offers free outdoor performances during the summer.

  • Location: Boston Common, downtown Boston.

Stroll Along the Charles River Esplanade

This picturesque park along the Charles River offers walking and biking paths, playgrounds, and areas to relax by the water. It’s a great spot for a peaceful afternoon.

  • Location: Along the Charles River, near Back Bay and Beacon Hill.

Visit the Bunker Hill Monument

Climb the 294 steps of the Bunker Hill Monument for free and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The monument commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill, one of the first major battles of the American Revolution.

  • Location: Monument Square, Charlestown, MA 02129.

Explore the Massachusetts State House

The Massachusetts State House offers free guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about the state’s history and government while admiring its beautiful architecture.

  • Location: 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133.

Visit the Museum of Bad Art (MOBA)

Located in the basement of the Somerville Theatre, the Museum of Bad Art showcases artwork that is, well, so bad it’s good. Admission to the museum is free with a movie ticket, but you can also explore the lobby area for free.

  • Location: 55 Davis Square, Somerville, MA 02144.

Explore the North End’s Historic Streets

Boston’s North End is full of history, and simply walking around its narrow, winding streets is an experience. Explore historic churches, old cobblestone streets, and enjoy the vibrant Italian culture.

  • Location: North End, Boston.

Visit the USS Constitution and Museum

"Old Ironsides," the USS Constitution, is the world’s oldest commissioned warship still afloat. You can visit the ship and its museum for free, though donations are encouraged.

  • Location: Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, MA 02129.

Explore the Black Heritage Trail

The Black Heritage Trail is a 1.6-mile walking trail through Beacon Hill that highlights important locations related to Boston's African-American history, including the homes of prominent abolitionists.

  • Location: Begins at the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial near Boston Common.

Art Galleries and Free Exhibits

Various art galleries around Boston and Cambridge often offer free entry to exhibits. Some universities, like MIT and Harvard, also have free galleries and museums open to the public, including the MIT List Visual Arts Center and Harvard’s Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts.