What to do/see in Boston late December/early January?

Question

We are two female adults that will be staying in Quincy for 5 days. On our list so far is: Hammond Castle Museum tour (in Gloucester), check out Cambridge and tour Harvard and MIT, tour the JFK Library, checkout the Encore Boston Harbor and have dinner, drive to Salem and walk around and then do some shopping at the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets. Anything else that’s interesting or beautiful to see or do? I know it will be cold, but we are okay in winter weather. We are willing to drive a little over an hour from Quincy to visit/tour interesting places. Thanks in advance for any recommendations!

Answer

Boston in late December and early January can be a magical experience, with festive lights, winter charm, and plenty to do despite the cold. It looks like you already have a solid itinerary planned, but here are some additional recommendations to make your trip even more enjoyable:

First off, if you're interested in history, you may want to visit some of Boston's iconic spots like:

Boston Common & Public Garden: Take a winter walk around Boston Common, which is especially pretty with holiday lights and snow, followed by a stroll through the Public Garden. You can also check out the Swan Boats (if they are open) or take a romantic ride in a winter carriage ride.
The Freedom Trail: While it’s cold in December and January, the Freedom Trail offers a historic walking tour of 16 significant sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.
Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market: These areas are especially festive during the holiday season. You’ll find beautiful decorations, holiday markets, and even the Boston Winter Lights display. It’s a great spot for shopping and enjoying street performances.

If you’re looking for more museum options:

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: A beautiful and unique museum housed in a Venetian-style palace. Its indoor courtyard is stunning in winter and there are special winter exhibits that you may enjoy.
The Museum of Fine Arts: One of the most prestigious museums in the U.S., with extensive collections of American, European, and contemporary art. It’s perfect for a cold day indoors.

If you enjoy charming neighborhoods, consider visiting:

Beacon Hill: This historic neighborhood looks magical in the winter, with cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and classic brownstones. It’s especially beautiful when decorated for the holidays.
Newbury Street: A great spot for shopping, especially during the winter sales. The street is lined with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries, and it’s a wonderful place to explore on foot.

For a cozy and scenic day trip, you could head to:

Rockport: A charming seaside village about an hour north of Quincy. It’s quaint and offers beautiful winter views of the ocean. The shops are great for unique finds, and you could even visit the famous Motif Number 1, a red fishing shack often seen in paintings.
Lowell: Just under an hour from Quincy, Lowell is rich in industrial history. You can tour the Lowell National Historical Park, learn about the industrial revolution, and visit the Boott Cotton Mills Museum.
Concord: A short drive from Quincy, Concord is a beautiful New England town full of literary history. Visit the homes of authors like Louisa May Alcott and Ralph Waldo Emerson, and check out the Minute Man National Historical Park.

If you’re looking for some indoor shopping and relaxation:

Wrentham Village Premium Outlets: As you already have this on your list, it’s great for a day of shopping with great deals on designer brands.
Encore Boston Harbor: Besides dinner, the casino has luxury shops, spas, and a lively atmosphere. You can also check out their restaurants for a relaxing dinner.

Lastly, if you love the holiday spirit, consider these festive winter activities:

Ice Skating: Try ice skating at the Boston Common Frog Pond. It’s a quintessential Boston winter activity and gives you a great view of the surrounding park and skyline.
Winter Festival at Boston Harbor: Some areas of Boston Harbor, including the Seaport, have seasonal events during the holidays, such as outdoor markets and pop-up bars with cozy vibes.

Enjoy your trip to Boston! The city is full of beauty and history, and even though it will be chilly, there's so much to explore indoors and out!