Boston is a historic city with roots extending to the founding of the country. For me, Boston is a group of small cities more than a big city like Los Angeles, New York City or Miami. We are really just a bunch of towns. (All those Boston-based films that show vivid loyalty?
As a city with a large number of students, fresh graduates and young people, Boston is a relatively cheap place to visit as it has plenty of free things to see and do.
From musical events to museums to walking tours to beer tours to gardens and beaches, there are many ways to save during your visit.
Here's a list of 10 free things you can do and watch in Boston!
Founded in 1951, the Freedom Trail covers 16 historical sites and extends for 4 km. This red brick path will teach you almost everything about Boston history. You can download an audio podcast to accompany your walk or participate in an organized tour led by one of Boston's many historical characters. Expect to spend a few hours on the trail and much longer if you enter all the sites along the trail.
This is the best way to get an idea of the city and its history and to discover many historical sites. If you do something in Boston, do this.
2. Eat at Faneuil Hall
Everyone should eat at Quincy Market at least once. Have your meal in one of the many restaurants in the colonnade, go outside to watch people go by and watch a street show. The hall has been a meeting place in the city since the 1740s, and many speeches were delivered on American independence before the war of independence. After eating, take a walk and spend the afternoon watching people
This is essentially the Boston version of Central Park, the Common dating back to 1634, making it the oldest park in the country. (Fun fact: there were many more fences around the park, but during World War II, the iron fences were removed and scrapped for the war effort.) Lie down, read a book, make of sport or relax. Stroll around the nearby public gardens or sit by Frog Pond. It's a fantastic way to enjoy your day without spending a dime. In summer, you can even watch a free Shakespearian play.
4. Catch a gig at the trap
Charles River's BRelax while artists play shows at the Hatch Shell. Built in 1928, this is where you can see the famous Boston Pops play on July 4th, as well as a plethora of free summer concerts. Sometimes the Hatch Shell even reads movies at night.
Castle Island is located in the south of Boston and is famous for its fort, Fort Independence (the fort was actually used as the first state prison, Ironic, huh?). The 22-acre island (which is technically a peninsula) extends into the harbor and has excellent beaches and running tracks popular with locals. There is a picnic area here and you can explore the old fort for free. The place is very busy on weekends in the summer and you can often see school groups exploring the fort in the spring.
6. Take a tour of Harvard
Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest university in America. Head to his home in Cambridge (Harvard Square Red Line train stop) and join a free tour to learn more. Discover the history, architecture, programs and myths of the university. When you're done, take a stroll through the eclectic offerings of Harvard Square. There are many good street musicians here. (Fun fact: Tracy Chapman started playing on the street here.)
Sam Adams, a large Boston brewery named after the famous statesman and founder of Father Samuel Adams, offers free tours. They occur in the middle of the afternoon and leave every 45 minutes. You also receive some free samples along the way. If you are not over 21, do not worry. You can always go and learn how they make their beer and the history of the brewery. You just can not taste it at the end.
9. Explore the Arnold Arboretum in the lowlands of Jamaica
More than 260 acres of free public spaces are open here from sunrise to sunset. There are running trails, gardens, open lawns and tons of flowers from around the world. Relax among the plants and take a step back from the hectic pace of the city. This place is much quieter than public gardens and offers a little more variety in plant life. They also have a huge collection of bonsai trees.
10. Visit the Massachusetts State House
If history is your cup of tea, take a tour of the State House. You will learn more about the history, architecture and operation of the building. Built in 1798, this national historic monument is worth a visit. Guided tours are organized by volunteers and are available on weekdays from 10:00 to 15:30 and last about 30 to 45 minutes (although you can also do a self-guided tour but less fun).