Ten Free Things to Do in Boston

Wading in the Frog Pond is fun AND free!

Discounts are awesome, but obviously free is even better!  There are some really fun things to do within Boston city limits without spending money.

 Here are ten free things to do in Boston.

1.  Take your kids wading in the Frog Pond in the summer - it's totally free.  Pack a picnic, walk around Boston Common, and cool off in the pond.   In the summer, the Swan Boats and carousel are also super cheap.

2.  Climb the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown.  There are 294 steps to get to the top, so make sure you and your kids are up for the hike!   But the view will make it worthwhile.

3.  Visit Castle Island in Southie.  Play in the sand, walk around the fort, have fun at the playground, and enjoy a picnic.  I love to go to Castle Island in the spring and fall to avoid the crowds.

4.  Visit the Observatory at BU.  They offer open nights on most Wednesday evenings year-round, weather permitting.   Starting times are 7:30 pm in the fall and winter, and at 8:30pm during the spring and summer. The program lasts about an hour.  The telescopes are outside, so be sure to dress appropriately.

5.  Check out free events at the Hatch Shell.  There are free concerts including Earthfest, free movies, and of course, the 4th of July fireworks!

6.  Tour the USS Constitution, the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat!  Learn about naval history on this free tour.

7.  Visit a free festival.  There are free festivals all throughout the year, but here are a few that stick out in my mind:  North End Feasts which happen all summer long, the Dragon Boat Festival in June, the Chinese New Year Parade, and more.

8.  Explore the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain.  There is no admission, but they do request donations.  They even have Discovery Packs for kids to make the experience most educational!

9.  Take a walk along the Charles River.  There's always lots to see.  End your walk at Artesani Park, where there's a playground and a fun wading/splash pool available in the summer.

10.  Play tourist and explore Faneuil Hall.  There are all kinds of street performers, such as musicians, jugglers, etc.  After that, head over the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park to enjoy the spray park and playground!  And, while not free, I recommend you head over to the North End for pastries.  :-)