Boston, steeped in American history, captivates visitors with its rich heritage and vibrant urban atmosphere. The city’s iconic Freedom Trail guides explorations through historic sites like the Massachusetts State House and Paul Revere’s House. Nestled amidst this historical tapestry are modern accommodations, including an array of eco-conscious options, such as green hotels, showcasing a commitment to sustainable practices and harmonious coexistence with the environment. For those seeking a more intimate experience, Airbnb vacation rentals in the city offer a personalized touch, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture. From strolls along the picturesque Charles River Esplanade to cultural expeditions at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston attractions seamlessly marry tradition and innovation, making it an enchanting destination for all types of travelers. Check out our list of the top non-touristy things to do in Boston, Massachusetts!
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1. Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour
Embark on a chilling journey through Boston’s storied past with the Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour. Your guide, a 17th-century grave digger, will accompany you on your Trolley of the Doomed ride through haunted streets and ancient burial grounds, unearthing the city’s darkest secrets. Explore Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, where Cotton Mather, a central figure in the Salem Witch Trials, rests eternally.
Immerse yourself in the spine-tingling history of Boston’s spookiest sites, making this tour a truly hair-raising experience. Don’t miss the chance to delve into the supernatural underbelly of this historic city.
Book Tours : Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour
2. Freedom Trail Scavenger Hunt
A must-try for history buffs, the Boston Freedom Trail Scavenger Hunt Adventure offers an immersive experience that guides you through iconic sites in the city, from the park of Bostom Common to the Freedom Trail, weaving tales of revolution. Armed with clues, tourists get to explore the cobblestone streets, uncovering the secrets of America’s past.
Engaging challenges and riddles add an interactive twist, making it perfect for families, friends, or solo adventurers. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Boston’s legacy while enjoying the thrill of a scavenger hunt. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with the spirit of the American Revolution.
Book Tours : Boston Freedom Trail Scavenger Hunt Adventure
3. Urban Adventure Quest
If you are looking for family-friendly events in Boston, go for this urban adventure quest! The scavenger hunt is an interactive activity that enables you to enjoy different parts of Boston, inclusive of The Boston Common, the Granary Burial Ground, and the Quincy Market, in a three-hour Amazing Race-style adventure.
Apart from that, you can have as many people as you like on your team. Your quest will be guided conveniently via your smartphone. Remember to bring along the water and some snacks to keep yourself hydrated throughout the quest.
Book Tours : Urban Adventure Quest in Boston
4. Freedom Trail and Fun Tales Pedicab Tour
Hop onto the back of a pedicab and venture into town where you will be able to catch sight of historical landmarks such as Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, Granary Burying Ground, and more. The journey is fully narrated by your guide. The best part of the adventure is being able to choose when you want to start or end your guide to fit it into your schedule. Get ready to experience a complete open-air cruising adventure, fully customized, and more importantly, fun!
Book Tours : Freedom Trail and Fun Tales Pedicab Tour
Boston Tour Guide
Naim Benmayor
As a Boston tour guide, I have the added experience of being a world traveler. For many years, I frequently visited Europe, Asia, and Latin America on business. During this time, I also organized tours of the USA, Europe and Asia for my business clients. I now bring this passion, excitement and expertise to the Boston area.By exploring the globe, I was exposed to various cultures, and this uniq... Read more
5. Boston Commons Puzzling Adventure
Go on an educational walk with your smartphone as your best guide in this puzzle adventure! You will be stopping by a series of locations where you will gather clues and solve puzzles to accumulate points for your team. Take your time with the race and enjoy the scenery along the way. You will also be given time to use the bathroom or take a quick snack before you proceed to the next location.
Book Tours : Boston Commons Puzzling Adventure
6. Murder Mystery Dinner Theater
Get acquainted with Elephant & Castle, an English-style pub located in the Boston’s financial district, where you will become part of a murder mystery dinner theater. The activity comes with a three-course meal and entertainment schedule. You are required to assist the talented cast members to solve mysteries throughout a 2.5 hours session. Get ready to drop your jaw as twists and surprises bring you through the scenarios of the case while you have a great time indulging yourself in a mysterious yet entertaining atmosphere all the same.
7. Clue Murder Mystery Game
For those who are looking for more challenging adventures in Boston, we have just the right one for you. Put on your intelligent cap in this Clue Murder Mystery Game where you join a scavenger hunt and race against the clock to defeat the other teams while solving riddles and searching out for clues. Get ready to crack your head with a couple of mind games, meet interactive characters, and be a detective for a day where you investigate crime scenes to solve the mystery. If you would like to have some light meal before or after the game, dinner packages will also be provided for an additional cost.
Book Tours : Clue Murder Mystery Game in Boston
8. Crazy Dash Walking Adventure
Be your true self in Boston and explore the wonders of the city the fun way! This digital adventure brings you through a crazy adventure by guiding you to prominent landmarks in Boston, ranging from historical monuments to local markets. The whole intention of this walking adventure is so that you can have an exciting time with your friends and family while you check out the Boston landmarks all at the same time. There is no time limit to the adventure and it all depends on your own speed of walking to how fast the game ends so feel free to take your time and explore around as much as you want!
Book Tours : Crazy Dash Walking Adventure - Boston, MA
9. Wacky Adventure Walk Game
The Wacky Adventure Walk Game puts you on a real-life board game where you get to learn about the facts in Boston while having fun all at the same time. The walking game will take about two hours to complete. Throughout the game, you will be dropping by various checkpoints in the city and take up various challenges assigned by the master at the checkpoint to complete the level. Don’t worry about getting stuck, the whole point of this game is to have fun and if you ever need any help, you can use the remote guide handed over to you to contact the host of the game whenever you want.
Book Tours : Wacky Adventure Walk Game - Boston, MA
10. Clue-Gathering Adventure Game
The 3Quest Challenge allows you to explore town through quest solving, the perfect adventure game for those who are looking to put on their intelligent cap while they are in Boston. As the name might suggest, you are required to solve three quests within two hours where your challenge would include solving a question or performing a task. The objective of this game is to have fun with your friends and family while exploring Boston. If you are stuck, don’t worry, you will be able to contact someone for help and they will come to your rescue in no time!
Book Tours : Clue-Gathering Adventure Game - Boston, MA
11. Codzilla High-Speed Thrill Boat Ride
If you’re looking for adventurous stuff to do in Boston, then try the Boston Codzilla High-Speed Thrill Boat Ride across the harbor. This wet and wild adventure is perfect for the whole family, offering sensational fun at a speed of up to 40 miles (64.37 kilometers) per hour.
Feel the wind in your hair and get drenched by splashing waves, while listening to the narrator telling you about the story of Codzilla. Get ready for a high-speed escapade that combines entertainment and thrill like never before!
Book Tours : Boston Codzilla High-Speed Thrill Boat Ride
Explore Boston the fun way
These non-touristy activities in Boston offer a refreshing perspective on the city. From secret gardens to offbeat art spaces, there’s a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Embrace the unexpected and dive into Boston’s lesser-known but equally enchanting experiences, making them an integral part of your exploration. Pack up now and come to experience the wonders in Boston here with us!
Frequently asked questions about non-touristy things to do in Boston, Massachusetts
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