Boston Bucket List For the New Year

Celebrate the New Year with the joy of travel. As one of New England's most exciting destinations, Boston brags of eclectic neighborhoods, historic sites, landmark attractions, and a vibrant food culture, Boston is waiting to be explored in 2021.

Boston is more than baked beans and baseball. Enjoy authentic local experiences, from shopping at Faneuil Hall Marketplace to beer tasting at the Sam Adams Brewery. Our Concierge – a local expert - has put together a bucket list of Boston's must-see attractions and things to do in 2021.

Tip: Pick up a Go Boston Card for free admission to Boston's best attractions and tours.

1.  Walk the Freedom Trail

Walk into more than 250 years of history on Boston's Freedom Trail. Stretching 2½ miles, Freedom Trail winds through Boston history with16 nationally historic sites, including Boston Common, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the Paul Revere House, and the Old North Church. Walk the red-brick trail on your own or join the walking tours with 18th-century costumed guides giving commentary on Boston's revolutionary roots. Standard guided tours are covered by your Go Boston Card.

2.  Eat Boston Baked Beans

Boston offers a bold food culture that is both modern and rooted in tradition. The city's nickname – Beantown – celebrates the beans slow-baked in molasses that were popular during the 19th century. For the most traditional baked beans in Boston, Union Oyster House, a local favorite since 1826, serves the sweet, classic dish in a historic atmosphere. Try the baked beans in a cast iron skillet with a hot or cold lobster roll sat Bostonia Public House in the Financial District. These spots also offer take-out and delivery.

3.  Explore the Boston Museum of Fine Arts

Explore one of the oldest art institutions in America. The Museum of Fine Arts offers one of the most impressive art collections in the world, including the Art of the Americas wing, with galleries showcasing iconic art from pre-Columbian times to the 20th-century. See the famed collections of Asian and European art with pieces by Monet, Renoir, and Rembrandt. Admire masterpieces, ranging from Picasso to Georgia O'Keeffe. Visit after 4 p.m. on Wednesdays for free admission.

4.  Discover the New England Aquarium

Take the kids to the New England Aquarium to see amazing marine life, including harbor seals, sea lions, penguins, sharks, giant octopus, and sea jellies. Located on Boston Harbor the Aquarium also offers seal feedings, an IMAX Theater, a Shark and Ray Touch Tank, and whale watching tours. The 4-story Giant Ocean Tank includes a coral reef habitat that houses more than 1,000 underwater creatures, including green sea turtles and barracuda.

5.  Experience the Samuel Adams Brewery

Touring the Samuel Adams Brewery is a must for beer lovers. This famous Boston brewery – also a testing facility – offers tastings and tours of the brewing process with a free beer sample and a keepsake glass. Free one-hour brewery tours are offered Monday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. or until 5:30 p.m. on Fridays.

6.  Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

Hop the ferry from downtown to the Boston Harbor Islands. Located in Massachusetts Bay, these 34 islands offer many outdoor activities and things to do, including hiking trails, beaches, historic sites, and wildlife. Ferries go to popular islands that include Spectacle, Georges, Peddocks, Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin and Thompson. Spectacle Island's 5 miles of hiking trails grant incredible views of Boston's skyline. Peddocks offers scenic hiking trails through coastal forests, headlands and a large beach. Head to Lovells Island with secluded shorelines, tidepools and beaches. History lovers will enjoy Georges Island, home to Fort Warren.

7.  The Paul Revere Statue at Revere Hotel Boston Common

Snap a selfie with the dramatic sculpture of Paul Revere on his horse in the beautiful lobby of the Revere Hotel Boston Common. The large statue, made from recycled materials and tools, pays homage to Paul Revere's profession as a local silversmith. The interesting lobby, a fusion of modern decor and New England history, features a steampunk lantern sculpture made by a well-known local artist out of vintage colonial-style lanterns. A wall mural of the Boston Massacre hangs next to the life-size sculpture of Paul Revere.

Boston's Authentic Local Hotel Experience

In the heart of downtown Boston, Revere Hotel Boston Common is immersed in the city's culture, food, and history. We are surrounded by Boston's most unique landmarks and attractions, from the Freedom Trail to the New England Aquarium. Discover Boston's iconic destinations – some off the beaten path - from our hotel near Boston Common, a place with a rebellious spirit and uncommon experiences.

After a day of Boston sightseeing, come unwind in luxurious rooms and suites with balconies and views of the Back Bay. Swing up for cocktails at our seasonal rooftop lounge, Rooftop@Revere, for local food and drinks with panoramic city and harbor views. We offer several specials for when you're ready to travel again in 2021.