Summer trip to Boston

Question

My husband and I are thinking of visiting Boston this summer ~ I've been there 25 years ago, he's never been. Would a week give us plenty of time for a day trip to Salem, all the Freedom Trail sights, visiting Lexington & Concord, and taking in the touristy sides of Boston? We prefer doing things on our own time rather than with a guided group, but are not totally opposed if something like that provides us with more insight into the things we are seeing. Is a day trip to Cape Cod do-able from Boston, and would that fit into a week with all those other things? And, what would be the most centrally located area in which to stay to do the most? Just tell me all the things I need to know to make the most of our time there ~ THANKS!

Answer

It sounds like you have an exciting trip to Boston planned! A week in Boston can definitely give you plenty of time to explore the major attractions in the city as well as venture out on a few day trips. Here’s how you can make the most of your time:

1. Freedom Trail and Historic Sights: The Freedom Trail is one of the top things to do in Boston, and it’s perfect for doing on your own. The trail covers 16 historical sites, including landmarks like the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere's House, the Old North Church, and the USS Constitution. You could easily spend a day or more walking the trail, depending on how much time you want to spend at each stop. For a more detailed look into the history, you could also consider a guided tour, but many people enjoy doing it at their own pace. Most of the Freedom Trail sights are located in the downtown area, so staying near Boston Common or Beacon Hill is ideal.

2. Day Trip to Salem: A day trip to Salem is very doable from Boston. Salem is about a 30-minute drive or 45 minutes by train from Boston, making it an easy day trip. It’s famous for its Witch Trials history, and you can visit the Salem Witch Museum, the Witch House, and various other historical sites. If you enjoy history and quirky attractions, Salem is a great spot to explore for a day.

3. Visiting Lexington and Concord: A trip to Lexington and Concord is another excellent historical day trip, and it's about a 30-minute drive from Boston. These towns are where the first shots of the American Revolution were fired, and you can visit the Minute Man National Historical Park, Concord’s Sleepy Hollow Cemetery (where famous writers like Louisa May Alcott and Ralph Waldo Emerson are buried), and the Old North Bridge in Concord. This day trip would be a bit more focused on American Revolutionary history, so it’s great for history buffs.

4. Day Trip to Cape Cod: A day trip to Cape Cod is possible, but it’s a bit of a longer journey. It will take you about 1.5–2 hours to get to the Cape from Boston, so plan for a day of driving or a couple of hours in traffic (especially in the summer). If you want to enjoy the beaches and charming towns like Hyannis or Provincetown, you could fit it in, but it might make for a longer and more tiring day compared to the other trips. If you decide to go, try to focus on one town or area on the Cape, as driving the full length from one end to the other can take quite a bit of time.

5. Where to Stay: For a week in Boston, staying in a central location is key, especially if you want to walk to many of the main attractions. Here are a few areas to consider:

Back Bay: This is one of the most beautiful and centrally located neighborhoods in Boston. It’s home to Copley Square, the Boston Public Library, and a wide range of restaurants and shops. From here, you can easily walk to the Freedom Trail and many of the attractions in the downtown area.
Beacon Hill: Another historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, Beacon Hill is located right near Boston Common and the Massachusetts State House. It’s a charming and walkable area with a lot of character.
Downtown Boston: If you want to be right in the action, downtown offers proximity to the Freedom Trail and major attractions like the Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, and Quincy Market. You’ll also be close to public transportation if you need to get around quickly.
Seaport District: If you prefer staying a bit further away from the more touristy areas but still want to be close to the action, the Seaport District is a trendy area with a lot of great dining and waterfront views. It’s also just a short ride from downtown and offers more modern hotels.

6. Other Things to Do in Boston: In addition to the Freedom Trail and historic sites, here are a few other activities you might enjoy during your week in Boston:

Boston Common and Public Garden: Take a stroll through the oldest public park in the U.S. and enjoy the beautiful gardens and swan boats in the summer.
New England Aquarium: If you enjoy marine life, the aquarium is a must-visit, and it’s right on the waterfront.
Harvard University and Harvard Square: A quick trip to Cambridge, just across the Charles River, offers you a chance to explore Harvard’s historic campus, Harvard Square, and the Museum of Natural History.
Fenway Park: If you’re a baseball fan, catching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park is a classic Boston experience.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: For something more unique, visit this beautiful museum, which has a collection of European, Asian, and American art in a Venetian-style palace.

Overall, a week in Boston should be more than enough time to explore the city and make a few memorable day trips. Whether you choose to stick to history, nature, or a mix of both, there’s no shortage of things to do!

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