Top Things to do in Boston Before or After Your Cruise
Boston, Massachusetts, is one of Norwegian's popular embarkation and disembarkation ports for cruise itineraries. Boston is a fascinating and historic city. While there is plenty to do on a cruise from Boston, make the most of your time before or after your cruise vacation. Are you looking for ideas on what to see and do in Boston? Read on to see some of our top picks.
Ready to start planning? Explore all Boston cruises.
Washigton Statue in Boston Public Garden
Visit the Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile trail that takes you through sixteen historically significant sites in Boston, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere House, and the USS Constitution Museum. This trail is a must-do if you are interested in American history or Boston's past. You can tackle the Freedom trail via a guided tour, such as the Freedom Trail Walk excursion, or walk the trail on your own.
Do Some Shopping at Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall Marketplace houses over a hundred shops, restaurants, food vendors, street performers, and musicians. It is a historic market that has been operating in Boston since 1743. Faneuil Hall is the perfect place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or grab a bite to eat before or after your cruise.
Boston Courthouse
Explore the Boston Common
The Boston Common dates back to 1634 and is the oldest public park in the United States. The Common is an urban oasis offering a place to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can stroll around the park, enjoy a picnic lunch, or even go ice skating in the winter. The park is also home to the famous Swan Boats, which have been in operation since 1877.
Take a Trip to Famous Fenway Park
Fenway Park is one of America's most historic baseball stadiums, serving as the home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912. Take a tour of the park to learn about the history of baseball in Boston. Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most iconic stadiums in the country, with the infamous Green Monster left field wall. See where legendary players such as Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and David Ortiz made their names. If you're lucky enough to be visiting during baseball season, you may also be able to catch a game.
Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
Visit the New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium has thousands of marine animals, including sea turtles, penguins, and sharks. You can watch the animals being fed, touch a ray in the touch tank, or even go on a whale-watching tour. Myrtle, a 90-year-old sea turtle, has been calling the aquarium home for over fifty years.
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest art museums in the country, housing over 450,000 works of art spanning all periods and styles. The museum offers an impressive collection of American art and pieces from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The museum also presents special exhibitions throughout the year.
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Explore the Roots of America's Independence
Take a short ride out of the city to the battlefields that marked the start of the American Revolution, Lexington and Concord. See where Paul Revere's famous midnight ride resulted in the mobilization of the Minutemen that first stood toe-to-toe with the British army. It was here that the “shot heard round the world” was fired, starting America's eight-year war of independence from the British empire.
Walk the Charles River Esplanade
The Charles River Esplanade runs along the south bank of Boston's Charles River between Boston Common and Fenway, offering stunning city skyline views. The park is lovely for walking or riding your bike and escaping from the daily grind. The park also hosts events such as free concerts and movies in the summer months.
Charles River Esplanade, Boston, Massachusetts
Relax on the Beach
Boston has some beautiful beaches if you're looking for a more relaxed activity. Revere Beach is just a short subway ride from downtown Boston, and it's the oldest public beach in the country. You can also visit the beaches on the nearby islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, which offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Take a Day Trip to Salem
Salem is located just twenty-five miles north of Boston, and it's a great place to explore the history of the witch trials. You can visit the Salem Witch Museum, tour the historic houses and cemeteries, and even try witch-themed cocktails and food. Salem is also home to many unique shops, boutiques, and the beautiful Salem Harbor.
The Witch House, Salem, Massachusetts
Book a day trip to Salem on the Historic Salem & The Witch Museum excursion with Norwegian.
No matter your interests, you'll find plenty of things to do in Boston before or after your Norwegian Cruise. Boston has something for everyone, from exploring the city's rich history to enjoying its world-renowned food and culture. Just leave yourself enough time to experience all that this amazing city offers.
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