Believe it or not, it is possible to have a fun day in Boston without spending a dime! There are plenty of free things to do in Boston year-round. Whether you’re looking for a cute date night activity, a cool hangout spot, or just something to do on a weekday or weekend, here are things to do in Boston right now that are fun and completely free.
1. Get free entry to the ICA
At the ICA, youths 18 and under always receive free museum admission. Plus, every Thursday the museum offers free admission to everyone, which is available online at 10am on the day of the event. If you snag tickets quickly, it’s an excellent weekday or weeknight activity!
2. Go stargazing at the Coit Observatory
If you’ve ever wanted to take a closer look at the night sky above us, look no further than Public Open Night at Boston University’s Coit Observatory, located on top of the Physics Research Building. Every Wednesday, as long as the weather is clear, BU’s astronomy department hosts observation nights, starting at 8:30pm. You’ll be able to see the night sky and learn about astronomy along the way!
3. Spend some time at the Boston Public Library
Is there any activity more peaceful than wandering through the Public Library? Particularly during the hotter moths, the Library is a great spot to cool off and sit down, or to check out some new books and get some reading done. While you’re there, consider stopping by the Library’s Tea Room for afternoon tea.
Plus, to take advantage of more free things to do in the city, open a Boston Public Library stat! Just some perks include free admission to the Museum of Science and New England Aquarium!
4. Stroll through Boston Common and Public Garden
We’re truly lucky to live in a city with such a gorgeous and well-maintained green space in a central location! A tiptoe through the tulips or a stroll through the Common are two underrated activities, perfect for a daytime walk or a date night.
5. And venture off to the Charles River Esplanade
After enjoying the public garden, you can take the Charles Street footbridge to the esplanade. Recently named America’s number 8 best riverwalk, the Charles River Esplanade is perhaps one of the most beautiful and priceless things we love about the city. The views are spectacular, and the path is efficient. For a few dollars, rent a Blue Bike for an extra special time along the Charles.
6. Continue the adventure on an open Memorial Drive
Every Sunday from April through November Riverbend Park, and thus, adjacent Memorial Drive, is open to pedestrian and cyclist use. The expansive road allows for comfortable strolling along the Charles River from Western Avenue past the Harvard Square area.
When: Weekly on Sundays from the last Sunday in April through the second Sunday in November
7. Try a new gym, for free
Dozens of Boston gyms and exercise classes will let you enjoy your first class on the house! Try one of Boston’s best workouts risk-free, and if you like it come back for more! Title Boxing and SoulCycle are some of the many with this tempting offer.
8. Visit the Worcester Art Museum
The Worcester Art Museum offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month. With a new exhibit “Us Them We | Race Ethnicity Identity,” plus a large permanent collection, this museum is the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon in Massachusetts’ second-largest city.
Find it at 55 Salisbury Street in Worcester.
9.Visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History
Massachusetts residents can get free admission every Sunday morning! You’ll have to provide proof of residency, but you’re free to explore the museums after that!
Find it at 26 Oxford St, Cambridge, MA 02138
10. Take a free outdoor workout class
There are so many free ways to get fit this summer! The Seaport is hosting free outdoor workouts on the common all summer long! You can also groove out to a free workout hosted by the city of Boston! Collectively, there will be over 700 free outdoor workout classes this summer in Boston.