40 Fun Things to do In Boston for Young Adults

Boston is not just a city steeped in history; it's also a vibrant playground for young adults seeking adventure, fun, and relaxation.

Whether you're celebrating the end of a work week, midterm exams, or simply the joy of living in one of America's oldest cities, Boston has something special for you. From outdoor bars to activities favored by young professionals, this guide will take you through some of the most exhilarating experiences Boston has to offer.

Seasonal Adventures in Boston

The seasons in Boston dramatically transform the city's landscape, offering unique activities that cater to the weather. Here's a look at some top attractions and activities tailored for young adults, ensuring your Boston experience is unforgettable, no matter the time of year.

Summer Sizzlers and Winter Wonders

• Trillium Beer Garden: A favorite among young professionals, Trillium Beer Garden on the Rose Kennedy Greenway is the perfect place to unwind. With food trucks nearby and several locations across the city, it's a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.

• Codzilla: Brace yourself for Boston's high-speed boat ride. Codzilla promises an adrenaline-pumping journey across the ocean, complete with laughs, speed, and a rocking soundtrack.

• Boston Harbor Cruises: Explore the scenic Boston Harbor Islands or the historic forts like Fort Independence at Castle Island and Fort Warren on Georges Island for a mix of nature, history, and fun.

• Marriott Boston Customs House Observation Deck: Offering breathtaking views of the city, the observation deck at the Marriott Customs House is a hidden gem for spectacular cityscapes.

• The Lawn on D: This dynamic space in the Seaport District is perfect for engaging with the community through arts, music, and lawn games during the warmer months.

• Assembly Row in Somerville: Assembly Row comes alive in summer with live music, cornhole, yoga, and a plethora of events along the Mystic River.

• Boston Harbor Hotel Summer Movies & Concerts: Enjoy classic movies by moonlight or groove to live music ranging from pop & soul to blues, right by the water at the Boston Harbor Hotel.

Year-Round Activities for the Spirited Young Adult

• Thrifting Quest: With the popularity of thrifting, explore Bow Market in Somerville, Garment District in Cambridge, and numerous Goodwill stores for your next unique find.

• Fenway Park: Whether it's catching a game or taking a tour, Fenway Park is an iconic stop for any young adult visiting Boston.

• MFA Late Nites: The Museum of Fine Arts offers after-hours celebrations connecting visitors to art, culture, and community with a variety of engaging activities.

• Third Thursdays at Isabella Gardner Museum: Experience the museum in a new light with music, art-making, and a peek into Isabella Stewart Gardner's world.

• Rock Climbing: Boston's diverse terrain offers ample opportunities for rock climbing enthusiasts, with indoor gyms catering to all skill levels.

• Freedom Trail: A walk along the Freedom Trail is a journey through Boston's rich history, passing by 16 significant historical sites.

• Run a 5K: Boston's active community means there's almost always a 5K happening. It's a fun, healthy way to explore the city and support various causes.

Culinary and Nightlife Exploration

• Explore The North End: Known as Boston's Little Italy, The North End is teeming with excellent dining options, from classic Italian to hidden culinary gems.

• Envoy Hotel Rooftop Bar: For stunning city views and a sophisticated atmosphere, the rooftop bar at the Envoy Hotel is the place to be.

• Sporting Events: Boston's rich sports culture means there's always a game to catch, from major league teams to college sports and minor league action.

• Farmers Markets: Experience the local flavor at Boston's seasonal farmers markets, offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and unique culinary finds.

• Piers Park in East Boston: Offering breathtaking views of downtown Boston, Piers Park is a serene getaway with ample green space and waterfront access.

• Glow in the Park on the Greenway: An annual event held on the Rose Kennedy Greenway.  Enjoy live band and DJ, lawn games, your favorite food trucks, beer, wine, and more!  A great chance to support the Greenway Conservancy and have a blast while doing it.

Embrace Boston's Seasons

Whether you're looking to make the most of Boston's summer warmth or embrace the winter chill, this city has an abundance of activities tailored for young adults. From thrilling boat rides and beer gardens to historical explorations and vibrant nightlife, Boston offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to every interest. So, pack your adventure spirit and dive into the myriad of fun things to do in Boston for young adults. Boston awaits to offer you memories that will last a lifetime.

Fun Things to do In Boston during the Summer (or Winter)

Seasons matter in Boston, and you can find super fun things to do outside during the summer months, because outdoor weather is fleeting.  We've compiled some of our favorites for you here: 

Mingle at Trillium Beer Garden

Outdoor beer gardens have taken the city by storm lately, and Trillium Beer Garden on the Rose Kennedy Greenway is a super cool place to mingle with other young professionals in the city.  Happy hours here quite popular and people line up and are very willing to wait awhile to get inside the fences.   

Food Trucks line up right nearby so you can grab a quick bite while you wait.  Trillum actually has several locations - the Trillum Restaurant & Brewing Co. is a building tucked back one street off of Seaport Blvd. in Fort Point   The venue features a large patio & deck setup, as well as indoor seating for the cooler months.   Another year-round, indoor-outdoor Trillium taproom is located in the Fenway.   

Experience Codzilla: Boston's High Speed Boat Ride

Codzilla is Boston's first and only high-speed thrill boat ride featuring two turbo-charged diesel engines generating 2,800 horsepower and speeds of approximately 40 miles an hour. Get ready for some thrills, laughs and more speed than you ever imagined as you zip across the ocean at up to 40 miles per hour with the wind roaring and the music blaring through a state of the art sound system. (it's loud, and it's fun!)

Take Boston Harbor Cruise and visit a Historic Fort

A great day trip might include taking a ferry ride out to visit one of the scenic Boston Harbor Islands. Ferries depart from Atlantic Wharf with destinations of Spectacle Island or Georges Island and Historic Fort Warren.

Visit a historic fort, (Fort Independence at Castle Island) or Fort Warren on Georges Island. Castle Island is actually accessible by car, and features a beautiful walkway (a 2.16 mile loop), big grassy areas for running and playing, a playground, BBQ pits,lots of parking, and a small beach area. Carson Beach is just down the road offering more space to stretch out on.

Fort Warren is only accessible by boat, so you can take a Boston Harbor Ferry out for a visit. Ferry rides are about 50 minutes so it's a terrific day trip. During the summer, lots of fun family-friendly activities take place out here, including vintage Base Ball games, kite flys, live music and of course, tours of Fort Warren. If you are daring, you may opt to take the "Lady in Black" tour, and hear the tale of Fort Warren's infamous ghost!

Visit the Observation Deck of the Marriott Customs House

The Marriott Boston Customs House (aka “The Boston Clock Tower”) is actually one of the city’s very first skyscrapers.  It was the tallest building in Boston from 1915 to 1965.  This iconic 492-foot structure has been a central part of the Boston skyline for over 100 years. 

But did you know there is an observation deck at the top?  The views are simply amazing!  Here's what you need to know about how to get a birds eye view of Boston from the Customs House Observation Deck.

The top of the tower is open & accessible to the public during limited hours. A fenced-in area surrounds the deck allowing visitors a view of the city from all sides.

photo credit: BostonCentral

The Lawn on D (seasonal)

The Lawn on D is an open space in the Seaport District designed to encourage community engagement with arts, music, lawn games, LED swings, Pickleball, food & beverage, and other original programming throughout summer & fall.

photo courtesy of Signature Boston

Summer Fun at Assembly Row - Somerville (seasonal)

Each summer, Assembly Row hosts a full roster of activities and events, including live music, cornhole, yoga along the Mystic, Bar Stars, Food Trucks, Riverfest, and Volo’s sports leagues.  It's a great way to meet new people along the banks of the Mystic River during the warm weather months. 

Boston Harbor Hotel Summer Movies & Concerts

Speaking of the Boston Harbor Hotel, every summer, the hotel hosts a variety of entertainment along the water, including Classic Movies by Moonlight on Summer Fridays, and concerts featuring Summer Pop & Soul Tuesdays, and Rat Pack Wednesdays, and Blues on the Barge Thursdays.  There is a large bar / restaurant there that provides ample seating and views.  And for the dancing souls, the barge is open for people to get up and dance along to the music. 

Go on a Thrifting Quest

Take a Tour of or Catch a Game at Fenway Park

No visit to Boston would be complete without a trip to Fenway Park!  Catch a game, or take a tour the home of the Boston Red Sox, including the press box, dugout, field, and more. Tours run daily and leave from the Souvenir Store across Jersey (Yawkey) Way.

MFA Late Nights

MFA Late Nites are a seasonal series of after hours celebrations connecting visitors to art, culture, and community through art, music, performance, food and drink, and an unforgettable night at the Museum.  Guests can explore the galleries and engage in art making. There’s something for everyone, from dancing and DJs to pop-up performances, intriguing bites, and much more.  Advanced tickets to these events are recommended.  

Third Thursdays at the Isabella Gardner Museum 

Soak up the enchanting atmosphere of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum at night at Third Thursday celebrations.  These lively, social evenings features music, creative collaborators, a cash bar, playful gallery activities, and hands-on art making, not to mention just being in the museum at night, as if you were one of Isabella's guests from long ago. Hungry? Café G will be open for snacks, dinner, and drinks.photo courtesy of Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Visit the Boston Public Garden. This beautiful park is a great place to relax, people-watch, or have a picnic. There are also several historical landmarks in the park, such as the Make Way for Ducklings statues.

Go Rock Climbing

Explore the Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail, Boston's historic walking trail takes you past 16 of Boston's most important historical sites, including the Boston Common, the Old North Church, and the Bunker Hill Monument.

Run a 5K

Boston is a very active town, and there's a Boston area 5K to run in almost every week!  Grab a friend, pick your cause and join the road race fun!  Race registrations generally raise money for charities and running is a fun way to stay in shape and bond with friends.

Grab a Bagel - What's Your Fave?

Bagel aficionados in Greater Boston are spoiled for choice with an array of bagel stores offering everything from classic plain to innovative gourmet flavors. Whether you're craving a quick breakfast bite or planning a leisurely brunch, these bagel shops are sure to satisfy your cravings.  How many places can you check out - and what's your favorite!?

Enjoy Boston Summer Outdoor Movies

Grab a chair, a blanket and some snacks you are ready for a great night at the movies under the stars every summer in Boston.   A multitude of venues host movies with a variety of movie styles.   Check out our guide to outdoor summer movies in Boston for a full list of shows, venues and start times here. 

Enjoy Open Newbury Street Days

Newbury Street is a fun way to spend an afternoon no matter what, however, over the course of 3 summer Sundays, Newbury Street becomes a pedestrian-only walkway, closing to vehicles allowing people the opportunity to use the full width of the street. During this time, Open Newbury Street become be pedestrian-only from Arlington Street to Mass Avenue.   Enjoy shopping, and walking the streets perusing arts vendors along the sidewalks.   Some restaurants even put tables outside and visitors can dine al fresco; 

Climb the Bunker Hill Monument 

Bunker Hill Monument is located over the Charlestown bridge (just about a mile from TD Garden, with a pretty walk over the bridge to Charlestown).  Take the challenge and make the walk.  Then, see if you can climb all 294 steps to the top.  

The obelisk was built to commemorate the famous Battle of Bunker Hill, and there is only one way up and one way down. The views (and bragging rights) are worth the climb. Be prepared for a cardiovascular workout.

If you you do make it all the way to Bunker Hill Monument, reward yourself with a quick visit to see Old Ironsides. and then take a scenic ferry ride back downtown from Charlestown pier.  It's about an 18 minute ride that affords splendid views of the skyline as well as a refreshing breeze. Check out our guide to visiting Charlestown from downtown Boston. 

Photo Credit: Brandon Turner 

Go to the Beach

Boston is only a short drive from the beach. Visit Revere Beach, Nahant Beach or Nantasket Beach for a day of sun and sand.  Many Boston beaches are accessible by rail so you can pack a bag and be on your way for a day at the beach if you don't have a car.  If you are lucky enough to have access to wheels, check out our comprehensive list of Boston Beaches and take your pick!

Recreation Sundays on Memorial Drive: Bike, Jog, Walk or Skate

Every Sunday, from the last Sunday of April to the second Sunday of November, Memorial Drive (Mem Drive to locals), is closed to traffic between Western Avenue and Mount Auburn Street., and open to recreation!  

Recreation Sundays are open to all to bring your bikes, scooters, inline skates, running shoes, strollers or walking feet to take advantage of the unique access to this normally busy road with views of the Charles each summer Sunday.  When you are done, go grab lunch in Harvard Square.

Community Boating & Sailing

Community Boating and Sailing non-profit organization dedicated to providing sailing and boating opportunities to anyone interested in learning to sail. Visitors can also rent sea kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and windsurfers for a daily fee.  This is a terrific way to spend a summer afternoon on the Charles River.

Boasting a fleet of many types of sailboats, membership entitles one to unlimited use of the boats, free instruction at all levels from beginner to advanced, with guest privileges once a member has passed a skills test. 

Over in Charlestown, you can hone your skills in the Harbor at Courageous Sailing Center.  Recognized as one of the top community sailing programs in the country, Courageous Sailing offers year-round sailing programs on both Boston Harbor and Jamaica Pond in Jamaica Plain.

Explore The North End

Boston's 'Little Italy' is known as The North End.   It's a neighborhood filled with character, charm and terrific restaurants.  You can't go wrong finding a great place to eat here, just walk around and peruse the menus, or follow the delicious aromas, and you are sure to find a winning meal. 

Hanover Street is the main artery, but you can find hidden gems on side streets, back alleys and on Ipswich Street.  No visit to the North End would be complete with out stopping at either Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry for a cannoli.  Try them both to see which one is your favorite. 

The North End abuts a beautiful park along the Rose Kennedy Greenway that features swinging benches, a wide open lawn & garden, and gentile spray fountains where kids can frolic.   It's a popular place to stroll after dinner or to sit and enjoy your box of pastries.   

It's also a short walk to the Christopher Columbus Park, a beautiful waterfront venue with benches and restaurants as well as Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market.   You could spend an entire day just walking along the Boston Harborwalk and the Greenway, discovering all sorts of fun things to do along the way.

Envoy Hotel Rooftop Bar

Go to a Sporting Event

Find a venue and root for the home team!  The Boston Red Sox, the Boston Celtics, The  New England Revolution and the New England Patriots all play in Boston, and there are often discount tickets available for youth or students. 

Minor league teams are also a lot of fun and often a much more economical option.

1. Boston Cannons (Major League Lacrosse): The Boston Cannons are a professional lacrosse team based in Boston, Massachusetts. They compete in Major League Lacrosse (MLL) and play their home games at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts.

2. Boston Breakers Reserves (United Women's Soccer): The Boston Breakers Reserves are a women's soccer team based in the Greater Boston area. They compete in the United Women's Soccer (UWS) league, serving as a reserve team for the Boston Breakers professional women's soccer team.

3. Boston Glory (Premier Lacrosse League): The Boston Glory is a professional lacrosse team based in the Greater Boston area. They compete in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL), which is a professional field lacrosse league in North America.

4. Boston Whitecaps (American Ultimate Disc League): The Boston Whitecaps are a professional ultimate frisbee team based in the Greater Boston area. They compete in the American Ultimate Disc League (AUDL) and play their home games at Hormel Stadium in Medford, Massachusetts.

5. New England Free Jacks (Major League Rugby): The New England Free Jacks are a professional rugby union team based in the Greater Boston area. They compete in Major League Rugby (MLR) and play their home games at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts.

These minor league teams provide opportunities for sports enthusiasts in the Greater Boston area to enjoy high-level competition and support local talent.

In addition, there are a TON of colleges in Boston, which means, of course, tons of college sports to enjoy.  Go watch a rugby game, or see a squash match, see how many hockey games you can attend.  It's fun and accessible and a great way to spend a few hours with friends without breaking the bank.

Visit a Farmers Market

Grab your reusable totes or baskets and meander around these top seasonal Boston farmers markets. From Spring to late Fall, eager shoppers can find scores of markets throughout Boston selling fresh produce, locally made cheeses, honey, and even some unusual culinary curiosities.  

Explore East Boston's Piers Park

Piers Park is a beautifully landscaped park in East Boston providing direct access to the waterfront, and spectacular views of downtown Boston across the inner harbor.  Along with lots of greenspace, refreshing breezes, a playground, sailing center and plenty of benches and shade, the ICA Watershed is just down the street open for seasonal art exhibitions and a small refreshment deck along the Marina. 

Discover Boston-based Breweries with Boston Brew Tours

If your crew is interested in good beer paired with good eats, you may be up for one of these Boston Brew Tours.  Experience the rich history of Boston in an entirely new way through local craft beer! City Brew Tours Boston, otherwise known as Boston Brew Tours, as we explore brings groups of 4 our more on behind-the- scenes tours of craft breweries while tasting local beer and deliciously paired food.   You get to visit a variety of locations and the guides at City Brew Tours drive you around to each venue.

Enjoy a Beverage at a Local Beer Garden

Outdoor beer gardens seem to be the thing lately, and Boston has no shortage of some terrific spots to meet up with friends for a brew. 

The Owl's Nest (Charles River Esplanade)

Adjacent to the Charles River, the Esplanade location of Owls Nest Beer Garden is a perfect summer spot to hang after work, relax after a run, or catch up with friends.  Seasonally open Wednesday - Sunday, visitors can enjoy got lots of tunes, events, and food trucks, as well as the breezes, and excellent views of the Charles River.

photo courtesy of Owl's Nest Beer Garden

Cisco Brewery Beer Garden (Seaport District)

Head over to the Seaport District and you can enjoy a round at  the Cisco Brewery Beer Garden showcasing an extensive portfolio of beers including favorites like Whale’s Tale Pale Ale, Grey Lady Wheat Ale, Wandering Haze Hazy IPA and its seasonal Summer Rays Golden Ale, as well as hard ciders, wines, frosé and coolers. 

New this year is a menu by local restaurant Rexicana Surf Cantina which will offer Caribbean and Central American cuisine. Rexicana will serve up tacos, corn tortilla chips with freshly made dips, guacamole & salsas.

photo courtesy of Cisco Beer Garden

The Anchor (Charlestown)

Finally, you can enjoy some fun outdoor games, harbor views and brews at The Anchor, in Charlestown.  The Anchor is an all-ages gathering space that is complemented by live music programming, public art, and backyard games.  

Indulge in a finely curated collection of local and international brews, as well as a robust selection of wines, sangria and bubbly. Espresso, coffees, teas, freshly squeezed lemonades are also available for refreshment. Explore more Boston beer gardens here. 

photo courtesy of The Anchor

Have a Picnic in the Park

Pack a lunch and head to one of Boston's many parks (The Esplanade, Greenway, Boston Common or Public Garden, to name a few), for a relaxing afternoon. Bring a frisbee, or a ball to toss about. 

Enjoy Some live Music

Boston's vibrant culture is not just about historic sites and academic institutions; it's also a haven for live music enthusiasts. From outdoor venues to cozy bars, the city offers a myriad of options for families and music lovers to enjoy tunes together. Check out some of the more popular spots to enjoy some live music in Boston.

Dress for Success and Enjoy an Odyssey Cruise

Take a high-end cruise around Boston harbor with Odyssey Cruises. Enjoy upscale dining, live music entertainment and stunning skyline views. Cruising year-round from Rowes Wharf, Odyssey shows you the most breathtaking views of Downtown Boston and its famous waterfront. Great for dates nights or to get a group of friends together.

Lunch, Brunch, and Dinner Cruise options are all available and are offered throughout the week.  Attire ranges from dressy casual to cocktail attire based on the cruise you select.  Odyssey Cruises depart from Rowes Wharf near the Boston Harbor Hotel. 

Fun Things to do in Winter (or Summer)

Take a Spin Ice Skating

When the temps drop in Boston, the holiday lights go up and outdoor ice skating rinks open up for winter recreational fun. Here's a handy list of where to ice skate in Boston on some of our favorite, (and a few new) outdoor ice rinks.

Go Bowling 

Kings Bowling first opened its doors in 2002 in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay.  Each Kings location features upscale, retro-inspired décor and executive-chef designed menus.  You can now find Kings locations in the Seaport, and in several suburbs on Boston.

With varied entertainment options, (skee-ball, arcade games, air hockey and more), themed nights, and state-of-the-art audio visual equipment, Kings sets itself apart as an unparalleled social scene for all occasions.

There are quite a few bowling options in Boston - check out our handy guide to bowling in Boston for some fun new venues to try. 

Play Some Golf at an Indoor Golf Simulator

Keep your game strong all year round, or try your hand at a new hobby. From cutting-edge golf simulators and launch monitors to chill-putting spaces, there’s a venue in Boston for every golfer.  Here's a handy list of golf simulators in the Boston area. Plus, it's a great indoor activity when the weather doesn't cooperate.  

In addition, Puttshack is an upscale, tech-infused mini golf experience pairing modern technology and neon lights with crazy courses and cool vibes for an experience that you won't find anywhere else.

Speaking of simulators, Boston Seaport will welcome F1 Arcade and Racing Simulator to the neighborhood in late April 2024.  Assemble your pit crew, grab a cocktail, and take the wheel of an F1 simulator for an electrifying experience you’ll never forget. This will add to a number of innovative indoor options for entertainment.  Racers, start your engines! 

Explore Seaport Snowport

Seaport is at its wintry best during Seaport Snowport, featuring holiday shopping, rooftop igloos, outdoor fun & games, plus a few festive surprises, Seaport style.  

Curling is back by popular demand, in a new location on Harbor Way. Give it a curl, with lessons select Saturdays or sign up and play on your own and with friends.  Keep your eyes peeled for a Betty the Yeti sighting.  She's the pink yeti mascot that brings extra cheer every year. 

Enjoy Some live Music

Boston's vibrant culture is not just about historic sites and academic institutions; it's also a haven for live music enthusiasts. From large-scale venues to cozy bars - and everything in-between - the city offers a myriad of options for friends and music lovers to enjoy tunes together. Check out some of the more popular spots to enjoy some live music venues in Boston a fun thing to do any time of year.

Go Rock Climbing

With its diverse terrain and vibrant outdoor community, Boston offers a plethora of opportunities for Boston rock climbing enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just starting out, rock climbing gyms provide a safe and exciting environment to hone your skills and challenge yourself.  A great indoor activity anytime of year. 

 

Go Skiing

There are plenty of ski areas within a two-hour drive of Boston —and several are as close as 30 minutes away!  Depending on your expertise and time, you can find all types of terrain, large and small mountains, within a drive of Boston.  Grab your friends and experience a ski area near you! 

Snow Tubing

Not into skiing yet? Prefer sitting down as you slide down a hill? Perhaps snow tubing is more your speed. From the Berkshires to the suburbs of Boston, here's a roundup of our favorite places to go snow tubing near Boston.

Visit a Museum

Boston has many great museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Science, and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Many museums offer free admission on certain days of the week or for certain hours.

In short, Boston is a terrific walking city that features lots of things to do for all ages.  Proximity to large waterfront affords entertainment both on and off shore; plus, the four seasons provide different environments for each activity. 

During the winter, you can also find great skiing near Boston just an hour or two away by car or some fun tubing hills just a short drive away.  Enjoy it all!

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Stacey Sao has been the Managing Director of the family-friendly events & activities website, BostonCentral for over 20 years.  She is the proud parent of a Tufts Jumbo ('24), and a BU Terrier ('26), and she continues to enjoy discovering and exploring new places to visit in the Greater Boston area.