If you are planning a solo trip to Boston, check out our top things to do alone in Boston below!
Boston MA in the USA is a great mix of tall skyscrapers, a beautiful harbour, and lots of amazing spots to eat and shop. If you’re travelling solo, Boston is a great place to visit. It’s the perfect city to explore and there’s a real buzz as you walk around, and it’s easy to get caught up in the energy. Whether you’re there for a weekend or just a day, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the city alone.
N.b. If you book through this page for your Boston solo travel, I donate to organisations helping vulnerable girls about the globe in conflict zones. Thanks for helping.
Things To Do Solo in Boston in the Morning
Whilst it is a bit cliché for America on your Boston solo trip, you have to try the bagels served at the South End Buttery. They have so many different breakfast choices and amazing coffee, the perfect way to fuel yourself for a day of exploring.
You can follow Tremont Street from the South End, which will lead you directly to Boston Common – the first public park in the USA. If you walk around the park, you will get a great view of the city’s financial district and Massachusetts State House. If you prefer company for exploring Boston, you can join the Boston Freedom Walking Tour to meet others. * Check rates & availability: Boston Freedom Trail Walking Tour
Boston Walking Tour
Parallel to Boston Common is Washington Street, which is the best place for some retail therapy, especially at the giant Macy’s, and is the ideal location to grab a mid-morning coffee before heading to the Boston Movie Mile.
The Boston Movie Mile starts around the Beacon Hill area, which is roughly a 10-15 minute walk from Washington Street, depending on where you are along the street. If you’re near Downtown Crossing on Washington Street, it’s just a short stroll to Beacon Hill, where the Movie Mile kicks off. So, if you’re already exploring Washington Street, you’re quite close to the famous film locations!
This famous stretch takes you through iconic spots featured in blockbuster movies and TV shows like Good Will Hunting and The Departed. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll recognise landmarks from the big screen, making it an exciting way to explore the city. Perfect for a solo traveller who enjoys sightseeing with a cinematic twist! * Check rates & availability: Boston walking tour
Mid-Morning to Lunchtime
To continue your solo travel to Boston, from Washington Street, you can walk towards the Government Center, which is home to the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the best place to buy your Boston jumpers and t-shirts!
Government Center is quite close to the starting point of the Boston Movie Mile. It’s about a 10-minute walk to Beacon Hill, where many of the Movie Mile sites are located. You can easily walk from Government Center to the Boston Public Garden or stroll through the charming streets of Beacon Hill to see famous movie locations, all within a short distance!
Boston Public Market is about a five-minute walk away from Faneuil Hall and has all kinds of options for lunch, from falafels to pizza to bagels (again!). It is also a great place to sample some local beers and ales and immerse yourself in the culture, but make sure you have your ID handy.
You can explore historical Boston on a walking tour whilst seeing the Public Market and the Old North Church and enjoying donuts whilst discovering local history. * Check rates for Boston Underground Donut Tour
In The Afternoon
One of the free things to do in Boston alone is to wander around the harbour. It is breathtaking – literally if it’s as windy as it was when I visited. From the Wharf, head towards Back Bay and aim for the Prudential Building; it’s the second tallest building in Boston, so it is pretty hard to miss.
If you prefer to learn about the USA’s revolutionary history on a guided tour, you can combine Back Bay with the Freedom Trail on a walking tour. * Check rates & availability: 2 Hour Back Bay Tour
If you decide to include the tower, you could spend a day in the Prudential Tower itself, as there are many shops (including a massive Sephora!), restaurants, and bars. But the real gem is on the 50th floor of the Pru: the Skywalk Observatory.
This is the highest observation deck in New England and gives you a panoramic view of Boston and surrounding areas. It really is the best way to experience the city and one of the best things to do in Boston by yourself, as you can see Fenway Park and even Harvard University, which you otherwise might not be able to see in just one day.
You can even do a guided tour of this famous university with one of the students! (check availability here). Discover what else Boston is known for.
Fenway Park
Fenway Park in Boston, the iconic home of the Red Sox, is a must-visit spot for sports fans. It’s not just about baseball; it’s about soaking up the history and vibes. You can’t miss the famous Green Monster! Take a tour and dive into the stories of legendary players, feel the excitement of game days, and bask in the park’s timeless charm. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just curious, Fenway Park is a place where sports magic happens. * Check rates and availability: Boston Fenway Park
Where To Dine
If you are feeling peckish, check out EATALY, located in the Prudential Center. As you may have guessed, it specialises in all things Italian, including absolutely amazing freshly-made pizza – totally worth it! It also has four restaurants to choose from, so it will suit any budget, and has loads of cool things to buy as souvenirs or presents.
In The Evening
Choosing a place for dinner is going to be difficult, as wherever you are in Boston, there are great options for food. I would recommend heading back towards the North End, which you can do via cab or subway. The North End is known for its Italian-American population, so if a big bowl of pasta is what you fancy after a long day of exploring, this is the place to be.
Another fantastic thing to do alone in Boston at night is to take a sunset cruise along Boston Harbour to see the city come to life when the sun sets. From Rowes Wharf, you’ll get to see the city’s famous landmarks as well as the historic USS Constitution. * Check rates and availability: Harbour cruise
From The North End, you are about a mile away from South Station, which is Boston’s busiest transport hub and will get you to the airport or help you on your way to your next destination.
Boston Tours
Free Walking Tour – Take the Boston Highlights free walking tour. Book your tour for free and then give a donation at the end depending on how great you found the tour! They are a great way to get your bearings around the city, find out more about the history, get some exercise and meet others whilst you sightsee! * Book your Boston walking tour
Get Your Guide – If you’re unsure of things to do in Boston solo, Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated day tours and activities in Boston. Choose from the original and world-famous Boston duck tour, a ghost and gravestones tour, or the Boston sightseeing trolley tour.
There are several to choose from, including a whale-watching catamaran cruise off the coast of Boston, and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability, then book online. Read my Get Your Guide review or click the link below for all their tours.* Check all Get Your Guide tours, prices and availability
Viator – Viator is similar to Get Your Guide. They are an American company and a tour platform with more than 345,000 tours and worldwide activities. They also offer a food and history North End Freedom Trail walking tour and a Martha’s Vineyard day trip with a ferry and island tour option. Read my Viator review or click the link for all their tours. * Check all Viator tours, prices and availability
Where To Stay in Boston
If you’re unsure where to stay in Boston, here are a run down of the areas to help you to decide.
Back Bay – This is probably one of the most picturesque parts of Boston. You’ve got lovely brownstone homes, tree-lined streets, and the iconic Newbury Street with its fancy shops and trendy cafés. Plus, you’re close to Boston Common and Copley Square. It’s central, walkable, and perfect if you like a mix of luxury and culture.
Beacon Hill – If you’re after that old-world Boston feel, Beacon Hill is all cobblestone streets and historic charm. It’s a bit quieter than Back Bay but still close to the action. Staying here feels like stepping back in time, with its gaslit lanterns and quaint little shops.
Other areas are the Downtown/Financial District which are near the city’s historical sites, South End which has a local, artsy feel and hipster cafes and art galleries. For a waterfront view and rooftop bars, the Seaport District is ideal for seafood restaurants and nightlife. Or head across the river to Cambridge, home to Harvard and MIT with a young, intellectual vibe.
Below I have included accommodations that have been recommended by solo female travellers. * Or check rates & availability for all Boston accommodation here
The Lenox Hotel – $$
From installing low-flow toilets, showerheads, and aerators, to giving left-over food to employees and upgrading their recycling practices, it’s no wonder that the Lenox Hotel was designated by Condé Nast as one of America’s “greenest” luxury hotels. They are very transparent when it comes to their green and sustainable practices. * Check rates and availability for Lenox Hotel
Hotel AKA Back Bay – $$$
Stay in this stylish 4-star hotel which was once a former police headquarters. There’s a fitness centre to work out, a lobby lounge to work in, and a bar to relax and socialise in. Plus, the beds are super comfy.
You’re just a short walk away from the Boston Common and Copley Square and just 5 minutes away from the Boston Bay train station too. * Check rates and availability for Hotel AKA Back Bay
Hotel AKA Boston Common – $$$
Close to Boston Commons Park and a Subway station, this 4-star eco hotel does not only serve stunning views but also social commitments. It’s also a 15-minute walk to shops and restaurants and close to the Granary Burial Grounds. There’s a minibar in your room, a cocktail bar and a gym to work off those calories. Plus you can bring your pet too! * Check rates and availability: Hotel AKA Boston Common
Getting Around Boston
Getting around Boston is a breeze thanks to its compact size and excellent public transport system. The T (Boston’s subway) is the easiest way to navigate the city, with lines connecting major neighbourhoods and attractions.
If you’re staying central, Boston is incredibly walkable—perfect for exploring areas like Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the Freedom Trail. Taxis and ride-shares like Uber are also widely available. For a scenic option, you can hop on a ferry or water taxi to cross the harbour. Renting a bike or using the Bluebikes bike-share programme is another fun way to explore!
Travel Insurance For Boston
Boston is a great destination to visit but travel insurance is always recommended for your holiday to cover you for any medical assistance especially if you’re travelling here solo.
True Traveller and World Nomads are insurance companies that I recommend. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.
All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover. * Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller
N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Social Impact Programs
EatOkra – Brooklyn-based startup EatOkra is a mobile app for finding black-owned restaurants. The app contains information and ratings for local black-owned restaurants in Boston and elsewhere in the US. It is a great way to discover new places to eat and support local black-owned businesses.
Books to read before traveling to Boston alone:
- Only In Boston: A Guide to Unique Locations, Hidden Corners and Unusual Objects by Duncan J. D. Smith.
- Boston Food Crawls: Touring the Neighborhoods One Bite & Libation at a Time by J. Q. Louise.
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