Travel Guide: 24 Hours in Boston

Boston, Massachusetts, is a dream getaway for a Memorial Day weekend—coastline, history, and lots of great touristy things to do. If you can only squeeze in a quick trip, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. To help you kick start your summer vacation planning, I share some ideas on the can’t-miss sights and eats in Boston!

Faneuil Hall

Address: 4 South Market Building, Boston, MA

Kick off your morning by strolling through Faneuil Hall. This was a central marketplace in the 1700s and now, the National Park Service has exhibits here with great information on the history. You can also quell your shopping urges here, and be sure to grab a Lobster Roll in the food court! On a really cold day, you can even check out Frost Ice Loft for some relief from the summer heat.

Harpoon Brewery

Address: 306 Northern Ave., Boston, MA

If you’re a beer fan, Boston has many different options to check out. But if you find yourself in the city without other beer fans, you might be able to sway their taste buds. Harpoon features a quick tour and tutorial on how beer is made. The tour itself is nothing advanced, but the tasting is excellent—the beertenders refer to it as “speed dating for beer,” and they’ll not only give you any pour you want, but they’ll even mix up different brews for you. My favorite? The Hawaiian punch, a mix of their UFO beers with a splash of Hibiscus cider. My girlfriend who does not like beer even enjoyed some pours here! After the $5 tour, be sure to grab a seat in the beer hall for a Bavarian-style pretzel.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum

Address: Columbia Point, Boston, MA

If you’re a fan of Camelot, or just interested in presidential history, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is a must-visit. It covers the President’s campaign trail, as well as major moments in his presidency, like the Space Race, and has dedicated exhibits to both the rest of the family and Jackie O. If you’re a student, be sure to present your ID for discounted admission!

North End Pizza

Address: Literally, every storefront on the north end

Boston’s North End is filled with Irish history, and the influence is undeniable as you stroll through the streets and pass pizzeria after Italian restaurant after cannoli bakery. Rather than stressing about which restaurant to pick, do yourself a favor, and stop into each pizzeria for a slice. Give yourself a walking tour of the history in the area—the bell tower where Paul Revere signaled the British’s arrival is here, and top your walk off with a cannoli from the legendary Mike’s Pastry.

Museum of Fine Arts

Address: 465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA

I love museums, and the Museum of Fine Arts is one of the best I have been to. No matter what kind of art you’re into, there will be a wing dedicated to it: Ancient Asian, impressionism, contemporary, and even a great exhibit on technology in fashion. The museum is free on Mondays, so head to the Northeastern campus (and stop by nearby Pavement for lunch, breakfast, or just the best coffee you’ll find in Boston along the way!)

Lawn on D

Address: 420 D St, Boston, MA

Close out your evening at Lawn on D. A great greenway and park, during the summer they’ll show movies on the big screen. Grab a beer at the beer garden, a snack from one of Boston’s great food trucks, and be sure and check out Swing Time—an interactive, lighting-enabled swing-set!

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Do you live in Boston or visit often? What are some of your favorite sights in and around the city? Let us know in the comments below. To plan your trip to Boston this summer, check out Boston Insider!

All photographs were taken by Desi Rottman unless otherwise stated.