25 Free & Cheap Things to do in Boston

If you’ve been following along for a while, you will know I’m not a luxury traveler. Ha! Even typing the term “luxury traveler” made me laugh. On my most recent trip to Boston, I stayed in a hotel which made me feel pretty dang luxurious. After all, I normally stay in cheap Airbnbs. But this time I stayed at a hotel I found on hotels.com (I also had a free night that I needed to use). Just to keep things in perspective, the hotel was a micro, pod-type hotel. My room didn’t have a bathroom so I had to use the shared bathroom space down the hall. Talk about luxury.

But you know what, that’s how I like to travel. I like to save money where I can so I can splurge on a good meal and so I can travel more often.

If you are like me, then you probably scour the internet for cheap deals and free things to do before you travel. Planning a trip to Boston? Check out my list of the 25 best free & cheap things to do in Boston. Compared to some other cities I’ve visited, there is a good amount of budget-friendly things to do here.

Ready to get started? Here are the best things you can do in Boston on a budget!

The Freebies

Take the Sam Adams Brewery Tour

I’m not a beer person but I still made it a point to stop by the Sam Adams Brewery. It’s just such an iconic part of Boston. Guests can take a free tour of the brewery which also comes with a FREE beer tasting. Tickets are available day of on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Walk Around Harvard’s Campus

You may not able to get into Harvard but you can still go to Harvard. And hey, if you casually throw that into a conversation you technically won’t be lying. “Ya, I went to Harvard.” Sure, you did. For a few hours, you walked around the campus. While you are here, admire the country’s oldest college and think about the famous footsteps you are following in. Obama, FDR, and Yo-Yo Ma all studied here.

Take a Picture on Acorn Street

The narrow cobblestone street in Beacon Hill is straight-up Instagram bait. No wonder it is considered the most photographed street in America. Be respectful of the residents who live here, but don’t be afraid to stop by and join the other tourists posing on this street.

Pose with the Ducklings

While we are talking about pictures, don’t miss a photo-op with the adorable Make Way For Ducklings statue in the Public Garden. This cute statue is based on the popular 1941 children’s book that tells the story of a family of ducks living in the same garden. The statues are adorned with different bows or hats depending on the seasons.

Play Cornhole at the Lawn on D

25 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Boston- The Adventuring Millennial

Head to the Waterfront District to relax and play in the large outdoor space known as The Lawn on D. If I lived in Boston, I would be here all summer. This space is free to visit and has multiple ping pong tables, cornhole boards, giant Jenga games, a bocce court, and a large swing set for adults or kids. Plus, there is an onsite bar if you want to buy some snacks or drinks.

Enjoy the View at Bunker Hill

The Bunker Hill Monument is a large obelisk that commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill (an important moment during the Revolutionary War). This monument is part of the Freedom Trail. You can hang out on the grassy hill or visit the free museum to learn more about the battle. Climb the 294 stairs to the top of the Monument for a nice view or a workout.

Climb Aboard the USS Constitution

The USS Constitution is the oldest naval vessel still afloat. This ship was named by George Washington himself and later played a major role in the War of 1812. Today the ship is docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard and is free to visit. Adults can also pay a suggested donation of $10 to visit the USS Constitution Museum.

See the Old State House

If you grew up in America, you covered the Boston Massacre in your history classes at some point. Even if you don’t remember all the details, you probably remember this was an important event in the American Revolution. This confrontation left multiple colonists dead and spurred the Independence movement forward. This event happened just outside the Old State House in 1770. Besides its connection to the Boston Massacre, this building is a fascinating historic landmark and is the oldest surviving public building in the city.

Check Out the Boston Marathon Finish Line

As a runner, this was a must-see for me. Even if you are not into distance running this is a pretty interesting site. The Boston Marathon is an iconic sporting event and is the oldest annual marathon. On the street near Copley Square you will see a painted strip that marks the finish line. In the square you will also see the impressive Trinity Church and Boston Public Library.

Explore the Boston Public Library

Since we are talking about Copley Square, you might want to visit the main location of the Boston Public Library. The 1895 McKim Building features Renaissance-style architecture and the country’s first children’s room in a library. Free Art and Architecture tours are offered daily.

Visit the Granary Burying Ground

Boston has its fair share of historic cemeteries. In fact, the Granary Burying Ground (which opened in 1660) is the city’s third oldest. This graveyard is a stop along the Freedom Trail. Many notable Revolutionary figures, including Sam Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere are buried here.

Stroll Through the Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Full disclosure, as of July 2019, Faneuil Hall is under a massive renovation. The historic building is completely covered in scaffolding and a blue tarp while the work is going on. But, you can still visit the shop and restaurants inside. And while you are here, soak up the historic energy. This has served as an important meeting place since 1743 and Sam Adams often gave speeches here.

Tour the Massachusetts State House

This gold-domed building is the seat of government for the state of Massachusetts. It is considered the “New” State House even though it opened in 1798. Free public tours are offered which give you the chance to step inside and learn more about the building.

Enjoy Views from the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

Located in the North End (near all of the city’s delicious Italian eateries) you can relax in the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park. Bring a picnic or simply soak in the views across Boston Harbor. In the summer, concerts and festivals are often held here.

Attend a performance of Shakespeare on the Common

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a free show. During the summer, Shakespeare plays are performed in Boston Common’s Parkman Bandstand. These free plays are popular, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Stargaze at Coit Observatory

On select Wednesday nights throughout the year, Boston University offers Public Open Nights at the Coit Observatory. This is a chance to view the stars through some pretty high-powered telescopes. There will also be knowledgeable astronomers on hand to tell you what you are looking at. Make sure you get free tickets in advance.

Sunbathe at Revere Beach

Just north of the city center, you will find the public Revere Beach. This was the country’s first public beach. Today it is still a popular summer destination for locals. Bring a towel, a good book, and some sunscreen for a mini getaway.

On the Cheap

Take a Self-Guided Tour of Paul Revere House

As you explore Boston, you will see Paul Revere’s name everywhere. Honestly, I think if they can’t come up with a name for something in Boston, they just slap the word “Revere” on it and call it done. The famous Midnight Rider’s home is still located in Boston. For $5 you can step inside this 1680 house and learn more about Paul Revere’s life. There are even a few pieces on display that belonged to the Reveres.

Join a Free Walking Tour

Wait, isn’t this in the cheap section? Yes, that’s because you still need to tip your tour guide. Free Tours by Foot is my go-to walking tour company. I’ve taken their tours in multiple cities and they are consistently fun and informative. Plus, you can pay way less than you would for a traditional tour. Check out their website for a schedule. The Freedom Trail Tour is one of my favorites.

Eat at Blackbird Doughnuts

You knew there had to be a dessert on this list. Blackbird Doughnuts is the best doughnut spot in the city. But don’t just take it from me. Adele also stopped by this shop a few years ago when she was in town. I won’t judge if you want to try more than one flavor while you are here. The Blackbird and Chocolate Old Fashioned were the two best in my opinion.

Treat Yourself to a Cannoli

Ok, since we are on the subject of desserts I have to mention Mike’s Pastry. This North End institution is a must-visit for those of us with sweet teeth. Sure, there is another cannoli shop down the street. But Mike’s is my favorite. This cash-only spot has been serving cannolis and other Italian treats since 1946. Stop by and see for yourself why there is always a line at this pastry shop.

Take a Harpoon Brewery Tour

Harpoon is one of America’s largest craft breweries. Unlike at Sam Adams, you have to pay to tour Harpoon. Tickets are sold on-site the day of. During your tour, you will learn more about the brewing process and see the facility. After, enjoy a beer and an iconic Harpoon pretzel in the tasting room.

Ride a Swan Boat

Boston’s Swan Boats are a major part of summer in the city. These boats were first introduced in 1877 and have been a popular part of the Public Garden ever since. For $4, adults can board a swan boat and enjoy a short ride around the water.

See the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Once I stepped into the courtyard, I knew the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum would make it onto my list of favorite museums. This art museum and historic building costs $15 for adults and is worth every cent. You will want to spend a good amount of time admiring and photographing the Venetian-style courtyard. When you are ready, start exploring the rooms and take in the incredible art. You will also notice a few empty frames throughout the museum. In 1990, the largest art heist took place at this museum. 13 pieces, including multiple works by Rembrandt and Degas, were stolen. The pieces are valued at $500 million and none have been recovered.

Shop + Eat at the Boston Public Market

The Boston Public Market is basically a less touristy alternative to Faneuil Hall. This marketplace features local vendors and eateries. Shop for some handmade souvenirs or grab lunch. There is plenty of space to browse without bumping into hundreds of people. Plus, you will find plenty of seating space inside or just outside the market.

I hope you enjoyed this list of 25 free and cheap things to do in Boston. Did I leave anything off that I should check out next time? Let me know below!

If you are looking for more, check out these Boston Guides:

What You HAVE to Eat in Boston

48 Hours in Boston: The Complete Weekend Guide