The Best Time to Visit Boston

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• Potential Places to Remain in Boston
• Premier Hotels in Boston
• Most Suitable Accommodations in Boston for Families

When is the best time to go to Boston?

The best time of the year to visit Boston is from late May through October, when you’ll have the best chance of pleasant weather for walking the Freedom and Black Heritage Trails, and all attractions will be open to visitors. Mid to late October is a great time for Boston sightseeing while taking in the gorgeous New England fall foliage.

• Best Time for Historic Sightseeing:
  Boston contains almost 300 historic sites within the city boundaries, counting 58 National Historic Landmarks. Some of the most visited attractions are linked by two walking routes: The Freedom Trail and the Black Heritage Trail. Many attractions, for example the Swan Boats in Boston Common, are outdoors and close down for winter. Others, even if indoors, have reduced hours during the colder months. Therefore, it`s best to visit between late March and October, when the temperatures are warmer. Rain is probable in April and May, though, so plan for a few indoor activities if visiting in the spring.
• Best Time for Shopping:
  Boston’s Back Bay is renowned for its high-end shops and stylish boutiques, but citywide Boston is a shopper’s paradise with no sales tax on clothing under $175! Even if you shop over that limit, tax is still only 6.5%, meaning that shoppers save year-round. However, certain times of the year offer steeper discounts for select items. If you`re interested in consignment shopping, visit in April or May, when spring cleaning leaves the stores filled with new items at a great rate. Sneaker aficionados should shop in November, when shops are making room for winter boots. General shopping seasons align with annual nationwide trends, indicating that summer gear is most plentiful in July yet discounted most in August. Winter items are best to buy in January and February.
• Best Time to Visit Museums:
  Boston possesses many museums, including large national collections, university holdings, and private galleries. Any time presents a suitable opportunity for a visit, but anticipate thicker crowds during the summer high season for tourists. For quieter exhibitions, particularly interactive displays, plan to arrive early on weekdays and depart by two o`clock.
• Best Time for Leaf Peeping:
  The arrival of fall brings a burst of color, achieving Canada as early as September and moving south into Boston in mid to late October, though precise dates vary year by year. Many people opt to drive outside the city to see the fall colors, but Boston’s public parks offer plenty of vivid foliage within the city limits. Check out Boston Common, the Public Gardens, and the Charles River Esplanade, or take a walk down the many tree-lined streets in Beacon Hill or the Back Bay to see the colors stand out.
• Best Time to Enjoy the Water:
  Popular summertime activities along the Charles River and Massachusetts Bay include sightseeing cruises between April through October to view whales such as the rare Northern Right whale usually spotted mid-April through early May or more common Humpback and other varieties commonly present from June through September. Pedal boats for family fun operate in the Public Garden mid-April through October weather permitting. Romantic gondola rides cruise the Charles River from late May through mid-October. The wild and exciting speedboat ride Codzilla runs May through October but riders may get wet so best experienced June through August in hotter months. Kayaking and rowing are popular all summer long while the prestigious Head of the Charles regatta, the world`s largest 2-day rowing event, takes place on the second last weekend in October.
• Best Time to Avoid Crowds:
• During the summer months when schools are out of session, Boston experiences a notable shift as its quarter million student population residing in the city for the academic year departs. This results in noticeably less crowded subway cars and roads as well as restaurants, cafes and bars experiencing lower foot traffic particularly across the Charles River in Cambridge. However, coinciding with the reduction in students is a rise in tourism as families flock to the area during this peak travel season. Many prominent attractions like locations along the Freedom Trail, places in the Blackstone Block region, museums and the aquarium can expect busy crowds, requiring planning ahead to avoid long lines and waits.
• The best time for children and families:
  The summer months, from June through September, are always a popular time for family travel to Boston, with plenty of warm weather activities available, including the Tadpole Playground and Frog Pond in Boston Common, the Tea Party Museum, and boat tours; along with numerous free historical sites, beaches, and activities along the Charles River. Expect crowds and higher prices, though. If working out a fall trip coinciding with the kids’ school schedule, fewer crowds can be found in late September through October, while still enjoying moderate weather.
• Best Time for Good Weather:
  Boston`s meteorological phenomena are most desirable from the latter portion of May to the early component of October. Thermometer readings typically hover in the lower to upper twenties during this timeframe, with July being the warmest month. Precipitation is most common in May and decreases in frequency through August, though the locale does not experience a completely rainless period. The body of water in the bay and river is warmest from July through September.

Boston Travel Seasons

• High Season (May through October): Late spring transitioning into early fall sees few slow periods in Boston. May, June, and September remain busy with college graduations and student move-ins. Surprisingly, October is when lodging costs peak as visitors flock to the area for autumn foliage viewing, sailing events, and Halloween festivities in Salem. June through August attract hordes of families given the warmer weather, with July receiving the largest influx of tourists. Expect elevated rates at hotels across the summertime alongside queues and crowds at prime attractions. Make lodging reservations in advance.
• Low (November-February): These colder months see fewer visitors in Boston, meaning great deals on flights and lodging. November is an exception as hotel rates remain high due to conventions, though other attractions have lighter crowds. Overall, if cold and snow aren`t concerns, these months offer excellent value.
• Shoulder (March-April): The weather can be unpredictable during these months, sometimes snowy, often rainy, and still quite cool for much of the time. Dress in layers, and enjoy the seasonal attractions that are just starting to reopen now, but do plan for a few rainy day museum visits.

Boston Weather by Month

Boston encounters all four seasons, with warm to scorching, humid summers and freezing, wet winters. July is the warmest month, while January is the coldest and snowiest. Spring and fall are beautifully brief but damp. Late April and May see the finest temperatures, but tend to be rainy. October presents the best opportunity for sunny, mild, dry days.

• Boston`s weather in January: This is the coldest month of the year, with averages ranging from 2°C down to -5°C. On rare occasions, temperatures may plunge to -20°C. January receives around 33 total centimeters of snowfall, with snow covering the ground for roughly a third of the month, and a few days with deep snow exceeding 25cm. Days are short, with about six hours of sunshine each. Travelers braving the elements will require a heavy coat, hat, and warm, waterproof boots. (average High 2°C, Average Rainfall 90mm, Average Snowfall 33cm.)
• Weather in Boston in February: While marginally warmer than January, temps remain frigid this month, ranging from 4°C to -4°C. February sees fewer days of precipitation (roughly eight total), though the total amount of rain is consistent at 90mm. Snow is still frequent and a few days each February will see snow over 10cm deep. Daylight hours are still brief this month. (Average High 4°C, Average Rain 90mm, Average Snow 28cm.)
• Boston Weather in March: March in Boston presents a mix of conditions. Daytime highs rise near 8°C as winter`s grip gradually weakens, while overnight lows hover around freezing. Early in the month snowfall is probable yet diminishes later on, typically melting rapidly with accumulation over 2 cm on just a few occasions. Damp conditions prevail as rain replaces snow, and daylight hours remain limited. (Average High 8°C, Average Rain 90mm, Average Snow 20cm.)
• Weather Expectations in Boston for April: April tends to be the rainiest month with approximately 100mm of rainfall spreading out over fifteen days on average. While uncommon, snow is not unheard of even later in the month. Temperatures typically climb into the double digits Celsius scale with mean highs reaching 13°C. Days extend to around eight hours of sunlight. Dressing in layers and carrying an umbrella ensures preparedness for varying conditions. (Average High 13°C, Average Rain 100mm, Average Snow 5cm.)
• Weather patterns in Boston during May: May represents the peak of spring, with lengthened daylight hours and typical afternoon highs exceeding 20°C. Evenings remain somewhat chilly however, so pack a lightweight jacket. Rainfall becomes more prevalent in May than April, although showers tend to be lighter. This is in fact one of the drier months annually regarding total rainfall amounts. Be sure to take in the vibrant floral displays at locales such as the Public Gardens, Rose Kennedy Garden, and Back Bay. Among the blooms at this time are tulips, daylilies, and coming later in the month, roses. (Average High 19°C, Average Rainfall 80mm.)
• Boston`s Weather in June: June sees the first genuinely hot days in Boston. Highs typically average 24°C, but usually a day or two this month where the thermometer exceeds 30°C. Most days stay in the warm-but-not-too-hot range, perfect for taking in a game at Fenway Park or for sightseeing on foot. Rain is slightly less probable than in previous months. (Average High 24°, Average Rain 90mm.)
• Boston Weather in July: The warmest thirty days of the year are usually experienced in July, with occasional high temperatures exceeding 30°C and mild evenings averaging 19°C. Visitors should dress for hot conditions; shorts, tanks tops, and sandals or flip flops. Complete sightseeing tours in the morning before high temperatures and moisture set in, then spend afternoons relaxing under the shade of beech trees in the Public Garden or within air-conditioned museums. (Average High 28°C, Average Rainfall 80mm.)
• As Boston`s warm, damp summer continues into August, days are just slightly cooler than July typically. Ocean and river temperatures peak around this time at roughly 20°C, creating ideal conditions for water-based recreation. Rains are less common now compared to July while days remain long. The average high is approximately 27°C with average rainfall near 90mm.
• Boston is fantastic in September. This month is generally warm, sunny, and dry: perfect for sightseeing on foot. As this is a walking city, there is no better time for getting outside and exploring the waterfront, esplanade, parks, and footpaths through the historical sights. Dress in layers if planning on staying out late, as the nights can be chilly. (Average High 23°C, Average Rain 70mm.)
• Boston Weather in October: October sees the peak of autumn foliage transformation, especially towards month`s end. Days tend to be bright and dry but brisk and brief. This remains a trendy time to visit the city though be certain to dress for the conditions. Layers and a lightweight jacket are recommended if exploring the city or leaf gazing. (Average High 16°C, Average Rainfall 80mm.)
• Weather conditions in Boston throughout November: Chilly temperatures return to Boston that month. Days are expected to be cool while nights approach freezing point. Most years see no snowfall, though some witness several centimeters over the thirty-one days. It is the second wettest month after April, with precipitation on almost half the days totaling around 100mm. Sturdy footwear and an umbrella are highly advisable. (Average High 11°C, Average Rainfall 100mm, Average Snowfall 3cm.)
• Weather in Boston During December: Most years see the first snowfall of the winter during this month, with approximately 23cm expected along with frequent cold rain. Nights almost always drop below freezing, while daytime temperatures hover just above that point. December also has the fewest hours of sunlight each day, around five on average. Layers of warm clothing, boots, and an umbrella are essential for staying comfortable outdoors. (Average High 5°C, Average Rainfall 90mm, Average Snowfall 23cm.)

Boston Events and Festivals

Boston in January

• L Street Brownies Polar Plunge – Since 1902, one of the oldest polar bear clubs takes an annual dip in the frigid Dorchester Bay every New Year’s Day. Anyone over 16 may join in, and previous years have seen up to 1,000 swimmers. Come dressed for the water (some wear costumes), as locker rooms won’t be available until post-swim. The event occurs at the BCYF Curley Community Center and info can be found on the CCC’s site.
• Barleywine Festival – Cambridge Brewing Company hosts their annual Barleywine Festival every year, usually at the end of January. A type of ale, barleywine has a higher alcohol content than regular beer and is deep amber to black in color. No tickets required; simply pay as you go. Lots of food is available, too!
• Annual celebration of Celtic music and dance at venues near Harvard Square – This tradition takes place every year and celebrates Celtic music and dancing, happening at various locations close to Harvard Square. Throughout the weekend, concerts, classic dances classes, and workshops are held and all focus on the musical traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and Cape Breton.

Lodging Website • Check prices for Mercure

Boston in February

• Boston Science Fiction Film Festival – A weeklong festival of feature films, shorts, webisodes, and more from emerging and visionary directors. The first nine days are set up as a standard film festival, and the final event is a 24-hour marathon of classic and new movies, running from noon the 10th day until noon the 11th day.
• Boston Extreme Beer Fest – A three-day event focused on creativity and boundary-pushing within the craft brewing industry. The festival showcases over 250 unique beers from more than 70 breweries located in Boston and globally. Admission includes unlimited tastings; food is available for separate purchase. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended as this function tends to reach full capacity.

The Bolt Bus runs various daily journeys between Seattle and Portland, and can be an reasonably priced choice if you want somebody else to handle the driving duties while seeking to spend less on transit. Fees usually fall between $15 and $30 for each leg of the trip, with some outings being offered for only $1. Individuals taking the Bolt Bus can access wi-fi and charge their electronic devices, and while not extremely lavish, it offers a tidy and clean setting for travel. Similar to going by automobile, however, riding the bus leaves you at the will of delays brought on by overcrowded roadways

Boston in March

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Boston`s largest parade highlights bagpipers and marching ensembles, dancers, floats, minutemen companies, and more. Around a million green-clad people arrive to cheer, so come early to get a good spot. The route tends to get especially busy near the Broadway train station.
• The Boston Underground Film Festival showcases unconventional films, according to its organizers. Held yearly in March at the Brattle Theater in Cambridge, it has screened works by independent directors and hosted notable guests from the genre.

Boston in April

• Boston Marathon – The renowned annual marathon, held in Boston on the third Monday of April, attracts approximately half a million spectators with around 30,000 entrants. Starting 26 miles west of Boston, the race concludes in Copley Square by the Boston Public Library. Accommodations fill up quickly during this period, so reservations ideally should be made 6 months in advance.
• Street Performers Audition at Faneuil Hall – Street acts are a standard feature of the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with buskers of all styles. Yearly tryouts for the following year are held in April, and are free to watch. Performances include musicians, magicians, dance troupes, and varied acts of all kinds.
• Patriots’ Day – On the third Monday in April, Patriots’ Day is commemorated, honoring the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the initial fights of the Revolutionary War. Battle reenactments are scheduled for several locations in the Boston area, with Lexington Green in Lexington and the Old North Bridge in Concord being the best known sites. Reenactments of Paul Revere’s midnight ride usually follow. Events take place on the Saturday before the holiday and continue through Monday.
• The Wicked Queer: The Boston LGBT Film Festival has been running since 1984 as one of the oldest festivals in the nation focused on films relating to the LGBT community. It is hosted by locations including the Museum of Fine Arts and various other venues scattered throughout Boston. Taking place over 10 days, Wicked Queer presents over 150 movies while awarding prizes for narratives, documentaries, and shorter films.
• Taste of the North End – This occasion highlights food from approximately 45 restaurants in Boston’s North End neighborhood. Expect an abundance of Italian cuisine! Visitors get to sample various dishes for a worthy cause, with the funds raised going to different North End charitable groups.

Boston in May

• Art Week – A ten-day celebration of creative works in diverse forms, with hands-on exhibits, skill-building sessions, and behind-the-scenes insights into artistic processes. Events take place at multiple venues around town and involve experiences like light shows on landmark structures, traditional dance lessons, impressionist painting classes, and more. Most events are complimentary, though a handful require tickets priced up to $50.
• Stand Up Throw Down – A month-long comedy opposition involving stand-up performances. Fifty of the area`s best comedians compete across ten events spanning the month. Winners are selected by a panel of judges from ImprovBoston along with audience input.
• Revere Beach Kite Festival – On America’s first public beach, this family-friendly occasion generally takes place for a few hours on a Sunday in mid-May. The first 300 children to arrive get complimentary kites to craft, embellish, and fly.
• Duckling Day – On each Mother’s Day, extended families with youthful offspring gather for Duckling Day occasions in Boston Common. Little ones (usually 5 and underneath) dress as small birds and retrace the course from the classic children’s publication Make Way for Ducklings from the Common to the Lagoon in the Public Garden. The march arrives complete with Officer Michael from the Boston Police Force stopping traffic on Charles Street for a harmless traversing (precisely like in the book), plus tunes from the Harvard Marching Band, a live reading of the book, and snacks.

Boston in June

• Enduring Love: The Love Letters of John and Abigail Adams – An annual reading held at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum sees performers from their resident troupe share a selection of adoring letters exchanged over the duration of the Adams’ 54-year bond. Ticket pricing incorporates a glass of champagne, hard cider, or beer; unlimited tea; plus a choice of cheeses and fruits. Advance booking is advised.
• Dragon Boat Festival – This two date festival sees thirty to forty teams competing over a five hundred meter course on the Charles River. The primary day focuses exclusively on racing while the second day reserves the finals alongside a cultural festival highlighting Asian culture through traditional dances, drumming, martial arts demonstrations as well as regional foods and handicrafts. As the longest running and most significant dragon boat festival in North America, it also represents the largest Asian-American celebration in New England.

In 2001, Lombok’s only international/domestic airport shifted from the center of Mataram (convenient for Senggigi) to Praya in the south (handy for Kuta). With no public transport or metered taxis in the region, the sole way to/from the airport is by Perama shuttle bus or a private car with a driver. These hang around the airport or can be pre-arranged through your lodging.

Boston in July

• Boston Harborfest – One of America`s most extensive 4th of July celebrations, Boston Harborfest presents four days packed with cuisine, performances, historical reenactments, and, naturally, fireworks displays. Highlights involve the U.S. Navy Welcome including navy-themed gatherings, 18th-century chocolate-making demonstrations, dramatic readings of the Declaration of Independence, and much more. Creating an experience to remember is possible by sailing on a tall ship after sunset for the fireworks show above the water. Events are held throughout the city, some free of charge, some for a fee.
• Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular – Here, a demonstration that essentially defines 4th of July festivities across the country commences. The event starts with a performance of modern and classic gentle songs by the Boston Pops at the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade. Following this is the fireworks show, which lasts about half an hour. The concert is free and available to the public on a first come, first served basis. The fireworks can be witnessed from multiple vantage points along the river and throughout the city.
• Revere Beach National Sand Sculpting Festival – One of the most substantial sand sculpting competitions globally. Each artist receives ten tons of sand to employ and a total of 24 hours (spread over four days) to develop their sculpture. The festival also features live music, food, fireworks, and additional activities.
• Shakespeare on the Common – For a fortnight toward the end of July, the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company produces complimentary, full-length performances of Shakespeare’s plays in the Boston Common. Each annual season features a differing play for the running season. Most shows start at 8:00, with the exception of Sundays at 7:00, and usually one matinee show over the course of the run.

Boston in August

• The occasion of St. Anthony – National Geographic has named this North End celebration “The Feast of All Feasts.” This is a four-day festival on the fourth weekend of August, with the Friday through Sunday honoring St. Anthony and the following Monday for St. Lucy. The primary event is Sunday’s ten-hour procession of the statue of St. Anthony throughout the North End neighborhood. Highlights involve food from hundred stalls run by neighborhood Italian eateries and markets, roving singers, dancing, parades, confetti, and streamers.
• Boston GreenFest – A three-day eco festival with live music and dancing, an upcycled fashion show, green film festival and innovations. Free events at City Hall Plaza, Faneuil Hall and Sam Adams Park.
• Hawaii Book and Music Festival: Didn’t pack a beachside book? Ran short on tracks for your MP3 player? This festival should stock you up with a soundtrack and a quality read for your entire stay. There’s a book swap, author talks, entertainment, and more.
• Films at the Gate – This complimentary, outdoor movie festival located in Chinatown presents classic kung fu and Chinese language films with subtitles or bilingual summaries. Folding chairs are offered on a first come basis, or you can bring your personal seating. Support the local community by ordering takeout to consume during the showing.

Boston in September

• Mayor’s Cup Race and Hub on Wheels – A two-day bike fest with two events: Saturday’s Mayor’s Cup Race, where pro cyclists compete for a cash prize, and Hub on Wheels, where all can register for a fun ride along the harbor and through neighborhoods, concluding in a block party at City Hall Plaza with live music and a beer garden.
• Boston Freedom Event – Also called the Hempfest, this is the second largest demonstration in support of marijuana law reform legislation globally, just after Seattle’s Hempfest. The occasion takes place opposite the Boston Common at the Carty Parade Field and includes live performances, cuisine choices, and additional options. The two-day function begins at midday.

Boston in October

• The Head of the Charles Regatta – Considered the largest two-day rowing event globally, this regatta attracts around 11,000 athletes internationally along with crowds of tens of thousands viewing from the shorelines. Spanning three miles of the Charles River, most spectators watch from between the Anderson and Weeks bridges on either the Boston or Cambridge side of the rivercourse.

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• Autumn Pumpkin Float – Annually held at the Frog Pond in Boston Common. Bring your own small jack o’ lantern 20cm or under in diameter and hollowed out to light and float on the pond; costumes are encouraged. Highlights include a haunted zombie maze, snacks, drinks, and kid-friendly activities.

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• Salem Halloween: Haunted Happenings – The city of Salem, known as the Halloween capital of the nation, hosts various events throughout the month of October. Visitors can tour locations connected to the witch trials, like Proctor’s Ledge where victims were hanged, watch reenactments of court cases, participate in séances, or take haunted boat rides around the harbor among other activities.

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Boston in November

• Plymouth Thanksgiving Celebration & Parade – An occasion during a three day period from Friday to Sunday following Thanksgiving day. The celebrations commence on Friday afternoon with guided tours of the waterfront and Plymouth Rock, followed by an illumination ceremony and street festival. Saturday’s Historic Parade features drum and fife groups, horses, and floats arranged in a chronological order, telling the story of America`s history. The weekend continues with activities like visiting a historical village, food fest, arts and crafts show, as well as additional live entertainment.
• Boston Comedy Festival – A week-long event celebrating comedy through performances and stand-up competitions. It`s a favorite among industry insiders and allows attendees to see some of the best up-and-coming comedians nationwide. Esteemed comedians receive yearly honors like Comedian of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award. Most shows require attendees to be 21 or older.
• Boston Jewish Film Festival – Since 1989, the BJFF has screened films focusing on the depth and diversity of the Jewish experience. Screenings are often followed by in-depth panel discussions and Q&A sessions involving filmmakers and guests. Tickets can be purchased at venue entrances for specific screenings an hour before, but early online purchases are advised as they close at midnight the night before.

Boston in December

• Boston Common Tree Lighting – On the first of December, the annual tree illumination festival begins with the lighting of the Nova Scotia tree, donated to the city each year as a sign of thanks to Boston for its humanitarian efforts after the explosion of a munitions vessel in Halifax Harbor. Trees throughout the Common and Public Garden will illuminate between 6 and 8p, plus you’ll see a pyrotechnics show, a Canadian Mountie, and Santa.
• Santa Speedsuit Dash – Annually many people gather to run wearing merely speedsuits and Santa caps (ladies also sport sports bras). This one-mile jog starts and ends at Lir Tavern and Whiskey’s Food/Spirits raising money for the Play Ball Foundation, a sports charity for middle school aged kids. Onlookers can watch and cheer the runners, but to participate in the run, be sure to arrive early as it is limited to the first 700 registering.
• Reenactment of the Historic Boston Tea Party – Held annually on December 16th, the commemoration date of the real Boston Tea Party, this occasion begins with a reenactment of a debate between notable figures John Adams, Paul Revere, and John Hancock about the tea tax at the Old South Meeting House. Following the debate is a march to replica ships anchored in the harbor, where boxes symbolizing tea are tossed overboard replicating the defiant act of the original protesters. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended as attendance for this reenactment often exceeds capacity.
• First Night Boston – This yearly New Year`s Eve celebration in the city of Boston does not charge admission and is available to all. Events occur in theBoston Common and Copley Square. Shows at the Common incorporate Family Fireworks at 7:00 PM while Copley Square hosts the iconic countdown. Expect ice sculptures, artistic and musical performances, and light displays.

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