Beacon Hill
2. Climb up to the Bunker Hill Monument: After climbing up the 294 steps, visitors reach the top of the Bunker Hill Monument, a granite obelisk 221 feet (67 meters) high, completed in 1843 and actually located on Breed’s Hill. It marks the site of a very historic American Revolution battle that took in 1775. The Bunker Hill Museum, also free, is just across the street.
3. People-watch: People-watching may not sound like it constitutes a free activity, but Boston has so much character (and so many vivid public spaces), that people-watching shouldn’t be ruled out; even if you don’t consciously plan on doing it, odds are you will. Good spots are the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Harvard Square and Boston Common.
4. Tour the Arnold Arboretum: It’s the oldest public arboretum on the continent (est. 1872). Visitors can explore the 265 acres that make it one of the most diverse of its kind, anywhere. Springtime is best for magnolias, maples, and winterhazel. Walking tours last anywhere from 60-90 minutes, but you can also do a self-guided tour by printing some material ahead of time and bringing it with you.
5. Get scholarly at the Harvard Bookstore: It’s not affiliated with Harvard University – in fact, it’s independently owned. It’s not unusual for authors to swing by for a reading or signing (including the likes of Salman Rushdie and Stephen King). Even if there’s nothing in particular going on, it’s still a fabulous place to slow down your body and speed up your brain, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need after a morning of sightseeing and navigation chaos. Bargain books are also great for time-killing on the trip home.
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!
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