Check the Boston Event Calendar for May for fun things to do as spring arrives. Boston bursts into bloom, and you'll want to be outside soaking up the sun.
Top May events include the Boston Calling Festival, the start of whale watching cruises, and art walks, Memorial Day Weekend activities, Mother's Day events, and concerts.
Looking for Fun Activities for Boston in May?
- Guided Walking Tour of the Freedom Trail - Visit all 16 historical sights
- Hop-On Hop-Off Boston Trolley Tour - Choose a 1-day or 2-day ticket
- Whale Watching Cruise - These popular seasonal cruises start again in May
Other big May events include Lilac Sunday, the Garden of Flags on the Common, Duckling Day Parade, special Harbor cruises, Beacon Hill's Hidden Gardens tour, and lots of Theatre District shows and performances.
Take advantage of the balmy temperatures to see Boston on a Duck Tour, catch a Boston Red Sox games at Fenway Park, join a Historic Pub Crawl Tour along the Freedom Trail for a fun way to explore Boston, or just relax as you enjoy outdoor patio dining at one of our wonderful restaurants.
See for yourself why May is the perfect month to be in Boston!
Top photo: Tulips blooming in mid-May in Boston's Public Garden, (c) Boston Discovery Guide
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Boston Calling 2024
Boston Calling Music Festival, the popular 3-day indie, pop, and rock music festival that takes place over Memorial Day Weekend), returns to the Harvard Athletic Complex in Allston bigger and better than ever.
Headliners Ed Sheeran, Tyler Childers, and The Killers will take center stage on May 24, 25, and 26, 2024.
Other top artists in the lineup include Megan Thee Stallion, Maris, Beach Weather, Trey Anastasio and Classic TAB, d4vd, Khruangbin, Leon Bridges, Young the Giantm Chappell Roan, Frank Turner, Reneé Rapp, Hozier, Blondshell, and more.
Look for three music stages, a comedy stage, and more music than ever from over 50 groups, plus over 30 food vendors, a wide selection of beer and wine, sponsor exhibits, and surprise attractions.
Tickets typically go fast, and prices rise as the dates draw closer. In addition for single-day passes, you'll see options for 3-day passes plus a tiered array of VIP tickets; the most expensive tiers typically sell out the fastest.
Boston Calling 2024 Tickets
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- Boston Calling Tickets - All options & 3-day pass
- May 24 tickets - Boston Calling - Headliner: Ed Sheeran
- May 25 tickets - Boston Calling - Headliner: Tyler Childers
- May 26 tickets - Boston Calling - Headliner: The Killers
Boston Whale Watching Season Begins for 2024!
Boston whale watching cruises start on May 16. Don't wait to get your tickets!
These exciting excursions last about 3.5-4 hours and take you through Boston Harbor and out to Stellwagen Bank, a protected marine area 25 miles east of the city.
Marine biologists or naturalists serve as guides to make sure you don't miss a thing.
What will you see?
On a typical day, you may spot various types of large whales, dolphins, sea birds, and plenty of other marine creatures.
Be sure to bring your camera!
Get your whale watch tickets and reservations
More about Boston whale watching cruises
Boston Concerts & Shows during May 2025
Top May Concerts & Shows in Boston
Top concerts in Boston in May 2025 include Shakira, Warren Zeiders, the 3-day Boston Calling Music Festival over Memorial Day Weekend - plus a lot more to come:
- Warren Zeiders - MGM Music Hall - May 3
- Boston Calling Music Festival - 3-Day Pass - Harvard Athletic Field - May 23
- Shakira - Fenway Park- May 29
- Candlelight Concerts - Multiple dates in May at various locations
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Schedules & Tickets
Find more concerts & shows for May
Find Boston concerts throughout the Year
More Ways to Enjoy Boston
More: Sightseeing Tours | Tours for Teens | Kids & Family Tours
Memorial Day Weekend Events in Boston
When: Monday, May 26 - Memorial Day 2025
Many Bostonians leave town and head to the Cape or the mountains on Memorial Day - so if you're visiting, you have the best of both worlds: plenty of fun things to do, less competition (and perhaps lower prices) for tickets, and somewhat smaller crowds.
Memorial Day Weekend events in Boston range from somber ceremonies of remembrance and the Garden of Flags on Boston Common to fun activities embracing summer weather such as the Boston Calling Music Festival (get your tickets now!), the city's waterfront location, and of course, the Red Sox, home again in time to play the Brewers at Fenway Park on May 24, 25, and 26.
Find out about all the best Memorial Day events and activities.
Need a place to stay? Check out available Boston hotels, apartments, and last-minute deals
Boston Harbor Sightseeing Cruises
Tour Boston by boat - the best way to see the city! Check out these fun sightseeing, sunset, and entertainment Boston Harbor cruises on the Yacht Northern Lights and Schooner Adirondack III:
Popular Cruises on the Northern Lights:
- Northern Lights Sunset Cruise - Grab a refreshments from the bar and then relax as you watch the sun set on this sail around the Harbor, just in time to catch the USS Constitution fire its cannons as the sun dips down past the horizon
- Brunch Cruise on the Northern Lights - Savor a delicious 3-course brunch on this relaxing sightseeing cruise around Boston Harbor
- Boston Harbor Cruise on Northern Lights - Soak up Boston's unique sites and rich history on this comfortable sightseeing cruise around the Harbor - perfect friends and family experience! Food and beverages available for purchase at the bar
Sailing on the Adirondack III & IV (through mid-October):
- Adirondack III & IV Day Sail - Enjoy cool breezes and the afternoon sun on this relaxing sightseeing sail around Boston Harbor and the Inner Harbor Islands
- Adirondack III & IV Sunset Sail - Relax as the setting sun turns the sky brilliant colors
Fall Foliage Cruises - Starting October 5
- Fall Foliage Brunch Cruise on Northern Lights - Enjoy a tasty gourmet brunch, fall foliage, and panoramic views as you cruise around Boston Harbor
- Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise on Northern Lights - Sip hot cider as you enjoy lunch on this relaxing fall foliage cruise to celebrate seasonal colors
Whale Watching Cruise Tickets
Join one of the exciting 3-hour Whale Watching Cruises departing from the Downtown Boston Waterfront, and experience the thrill of spotting whales off the coast of Boston.
You'll see magnificent creatures such as Humpback and Finback whales close-up from the deck of your ship, and spot White-Sided Dolphins frolicking in the waters.
These cruises sell out quickly, so don't wait to get your tickets now for this iconic Boston experience!
Wine Tasting Classes with Food Pairing at Bonde
Get ready to savor superb small-production American wines paired with cuisine from top local restaurants when Bonde Fine Wines' owner/sommelier Bertil Jean-Chronberg teams up with top winemakers to present weekly wine tastings and wine tasting classes.
Although the format varies somewhat each week, in a typical session you'll enjoy a flight of special wines accompanied by light snacks as you learn about the wines and key things to consider when doing food pairings.
The focus varies each week, and because this is a small-group experience, the events sell out quickly - so sign up as far in advance as possible, and be flexible, if you can, with your dates.
Location: 54 Church Street, Harvard Square, Cambridge
More information and reservations: Bonde website
More about where to find wine tastings in Boston
Boston Theater & Shows for May 2025
Top May Shows in Boston - Schedules & Tickets
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Check out the Boston theater schedule for May with its exciting mix of touring Broadway shows, musicals, ballet, kids shows, and comedy:
- Kimberly Akimbo - Emerson Colonial Theatre - May 6-16
- Blue Man Group - Charles Playhouse - Multiple shows all month
More Boston Theater District Shows
Where to stay and dine in Boston's Theatre District
Top Hotels near Boston's Theatre District
Enjoy your Boston performance or show experience to the fullest when you stay in one of the nearby Theatre District hotels, such as the hip and glamorous Revere Hotel:
More top Theatre District hotels:
Check out more hotels in Boston's Theatre District
Fun Boston Sightseeing Tours
Boston Comedy Clubs May 2025
Looking for something fun to do in Boston that doesn't (usually) cost too much money? Check out these shows:
Enter DISCOVERY10 to save 10% on TicketLiquidator & TicketNetwork tickets. Good for purchases made through 12/31/24.
Find more comedy club show schedule & tickets
More about Boston's comedy clubs
May Boston Red Sox Schedule - Home Games at Fenway
Location: Fenway Park
Nearest T stations: Green Line B or C/Kenmore; Commuter Rail Worcester Line/Yawkey
Indulge your passion for baseball by going to see the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park!
Get Schedule & Tickets
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Find Red Sox Home Games at Fenway for Other Months
June - July - August - September - October
Stay: Hotels near Fenway Park
Park: Garages & lots near Fenway Park
Celebrate: Best sports bars near Fenway Park
Find out about more Boston sports
MFA: Memorial Day Open House - Free Admission 2024
Museum of Fine Arts in BostonMFA will offer family-oriented festivities this year with special exhibitions and free admission to Massachusetts residents (be prepared to show something with an MA zip code) on Memorial Day.
This fun family event takes place mostly in the Shapiro Family Courtyard where you can make art, see neon art in the Druker Family Pavilion, watch a taekwondo demonstration, dance, pose in a photo booth, and join tours and discussions in the art galleries. You'll also get free access to MFA's special exhibition, "Hallyu! The Korean Wave."
Want to come on another day? If you have a GoBoston card or CityPASS, you can get free admission at any time.
When: Monday, May 27 - Memorial Day Weekend
Find more things to do on Memorial Day Weekend in Boston
Boston Hotels with Outdoor Swimming Pools
- Verb Hotel next to Fenway Park (shown in photo) - Find Lowest Rates
- Colonnade Hotel near Prudential Center - Find Discount Rates
- Revere Hotel in the Theatre District -Find Discount Rates
Find more Boston hotels with outdoor swimming pools
Fun Boston Tours for May
Fun Events & Activities on the Rose Kennedy Greenway 2024
The Rose Kennedy Greenway is offering so many fun things to do this summer:
- Night Shift Beer Garden at Dewey Square Plaza across from South Station. Beer, seltzer, wine plus bites from rotating food vendors. Open Wednesday - Friday from 3pm - 9pm, Saturday 12 noon - 9pm, and Sunday from 12 noon - 7pm
- Trillium Beer Garden in the Wharf District Parks (High Street and Atlantic Ave) featuring draft beers by Trillium Brewing Company and a rotating selection of food trucks. Open Tuesday - Saturday from 3pm - 10pm, and Sunday from 12 noon - 6pm.
- Greenway Food Truck Festival, May 6, 11am - 3pm at High Street and Atlantic Avenue - Savor everything from dumplings to ice cream, including local favorites such as The Dining Car, Gogi on The Block, Indulge India, and many more
- Fountains - You'll find them in 7 different locations along the Greenway - so get ready to splash, wade, and cool off!
- Carousel - Open daily, 11am-6pm. Tickets: $4 (buy online)
- Boston Chinatown Lantern Festival with Gala Performances - 5:30pm-6:30pm, May 14 at Chin Park (near Chinatown's Gate) - Enjoy free music and dance performances in this celebration of Asian and new immigrant families
- Massachusetts Youth Pride Celebration - May 18, 10am - 4pm - Youth-led festival with a march and live performances the India Street and Atlantic Ave
- Greenway Food Trucks: A rotation of 20 trucks offer Korean, Jamaican, Indian, Caribbean, Italian, seafood, and other specialties along the Greenway at Night Shift on Dewey Square, the Carousel, Rings Fountain (Milk Street), State Street, the North End, Rowes Wharf Plaza, and Trillium Beer Garden. You'll find them at several locations each day, usually with a total of about 3 trucks per day. You can track the schedule and locations of your favorites here
- Public Art - See new installations by top artists
- Plants & Landscapes - Enjoy the sustainable organic gardens, including the Greenway's Meadow, Beehives, Pollinator Ribbon, Carolyn Lynch Garden with brightly colored flowers, and the Armenian Heritage Park with an abstract sculpture and maze
- Fitness Program - Join any or all of the free fitness classes (many different types) - find the schedule here
More about the Rose Kennedy Greenway
Independent Film Festival Boston
When: April 26 - May 3
Where: Somerville Theatre, Brattle Theatre, and Coolidge Corner Theatre
Tickets: Buy season passes (partially tax deductible) or individual tickets - see IFF's website for pricing.
More information: IFF Boston Website
The Independent Film Festival Boston spans eight days this year year, and promises to be bigger and better than ever, with familiar names plus many new ones.
IFF Boston showcases independent film makers from around the world working outside of the Hollywood system, and the lineup offers plenty of interesting features, shorts, and documentaries.
Lots of panels and parties let you can talk with the filmmakers and ask them questions. Boston film fanatics rate this festival as one of the best.
Find more Boston film festivals
Martha's Vineyard Day Trip from Boston
Spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches, art galleries, gingerbread houses, and seafood restaurants on this unforgettable Martha's Vineyard Day Trip fro Boston.
And don't forget to catch the brass ring at the country's oldest carousel!
Pickup and dropoff from selected Boston hotels plus ferry tickets are included.
More Fun Boston Tours
What to See in Boston's Museums - May
Museum of Science Exhibits
Special Exhibits
- Changing Landscapes: An Immersive Journey - Visit 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites in this new immersive exhibit about adapting to climate change
- Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology- Fly a virtual drone and become an Arctic explorer
- Exploring AI Making the Invisible Visible: Discover how AI is already part of your life, and examine your choices about how and when you use it
With fascinating permanent exhibits for all ages, there's always something to see, do, and learn. Here are just a few of the most popular: Engineering Design Workshop, Colossal Fossil - Triceratops Cliff, The Light House, Dinosaurs, Hall of Human Life, Animal Sculptures, Live Animal Care Center, a Rock Garden, Mathematica, New England Habitats, Garden Walk & Insect Zoo, Electricity.
Where: Boston's Museum of Science
When: Daily, 9am-5pm; open until 9pm on Fridays
Admission: $29 general museum admission ($24 for kids; children under 3 free; seniors 60+ $25). Reserve your tickets, or get free museum admission when you have a GoBoston Discount card or CityPASS card.
New England Aquarium
Harbor seals and seal lions, a giant 4-story ocean tank with hundreds of Caribbean reef animals, an Amazon rain forest, sharks, Myrtle the green sea turtle, and frisky penguins are just a few of the thousands of aquatic animals you'll experience here.
Get your tickets in advance, or find out more about the Aquarium. Admission also available through the Go Boston Pass, Explorer Pass, and Boston CityPASS discount cards.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Watch the famous tea party event come alive with live actors, immersive exhibits, and a visit to the full-scale replica 18th century sailing ships at this unique living history museum. Get advance tickets.
MFA Boston - Current & Future Shows
- Dress Up - A look at how we dress expresses our politics, moods, and personal identities - Through September 2
- Dalí: Disruption & Devotion - How Dalí's Surrealist works took inspiration from the past: 30 of his paintings and prints paired with masterpieces by El Greco, Velazquez, and others - July 6 - December 1
- Thinking Small: Dutch Art to Scale - 17th-century Netherlands paintings, prints, books, and other creations designed to elicit slow looking and contemplation. - Through November 3
- Georgia O'Keefe and Henry Moore - Juxtapositions between the work of these two 20th century icons - October 13 - January 20, 2025; timed-entry tickets required. Reserve online
- Deep Waters: Four Artists & the Sea - Compare the visions of four disparate artists with unique perspectives - Nov 9, 2024 - Nov 9, 2025
Museum of Fine Arts Boston admission: $27; some special exhibits require a timed-entry reservation and/or additional fee; free entrance when you have a GoBoston Discount card or Boston CityPASS). Free admission to 1) U.S. active duty military and veterans, 2) Boston Public Schools students and up to 3 family members ever first and second Sunday each month, plus $7 for some special exhibitions 3) Massachusetts residents on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, & Indigenous Peoples' Day, and 4) thanks to UNIQLO, everyone on September 14, 2024. MFA is open every day except for Tuesday.
Museum of African American History - Current Show
- The Emancipation Proclamation: A Pragmatic Compromise - A close look at this important American document that changed the course of the Civil War, freed enslaved people in the Confederacy, and allowed men of African descent to join the fight for freedom
Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston - Current & Future Shows
- Wu Tsang: Of Whales - An immersive installation inspired by Melvilles Moby Dick - Through Aug 24
- Igshaan Adams - A new monumental commissioned work by this South African artist - Through Feb 15, 2025
- Firelei Baez - Massive works -Through September 2
- Wordplay - This show focuses on how contemporary artists have played with words to animate and expand their art - Through Jan 5, 2025
- Stanley Whitney: How High the Moon - Retrospective featuring Whitney's small paintings and other works - Through Sept 1, 2025
- Gun Violence Memorial Project - A living memorial to the 700 lives typically lost each week by gun violence in the US - Aug 29 - January 20, 2025
- Tau Lewis - Sculptures, quilts, masks, and more made from found materials; her first solo show in the US - Aug 29 - January 26, 2025
- Charles Atlas - An immersive multimedia exhibit - Oct 10 - March 16, 2025
Admission: $20 adults, 18 and under free; free entrance with GoBostoncard and Boston CityPASS, and on Thursday evenings (tickets available at 10am on the day of your visit; recommended due to limited space). Closed on Mondays. Free admission on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Labor Day, & Indigenous Peoples' Day, and every Thursday from 5-9pm.
Free Drop-In Summer Yoga on Boston Common 2024
Dropping in on free summer yoga sessions near the carousel on Boston Common is part of what makes Boston fun in the summer. A variety of talented local instructors lead a vinyasa flow classes focused on releasing stress and expanding energy and welcome participants of all levels.
When: Every Monday, 6pm-7pm, May 9 - August 29
Where: Frog Pond at Boston Common
Nearest T station: Green Line/Park
Cost: Free
Bring: Your own mat, blocks, towels, and belt
Berklee Summer in the City: Free Summer Concerts in Boston
Berklee College of Music students, faculty, and alumni give hundreds of free outdoor concerts all over the city from May 1 and throughout the summer, usually going through September.
Music ranges from jazz to classical, Latin to funk, folk to world, and are free.
To kick off the series, Cesare Panizzi will perform at the Brewer Fountain Plaza from May 1 - 5, at 12:15pm - 2:15pm.
Most concerts for this year are still TBD but once they're announced, you can find the schedule here: Berklee events website
Locations typically include Atlantic Wharf, the Boston Public Library, Brewer Fountain Plaza on Boston Common, the Charlestown Navy Yard, Chin Park and City Winery on the Greenway, selected Boston Harbor Cruises, the Arnold Arboretum, Christopher Columbus Park on the waterfront, Downtown Boston, the Longwood Medical Campus, multiple locations in Cambridge, Dorchester Heights, Institute of Contemporary Art, Prudential Center, Fenway locations, and more.
Voices of Humanity Concert at Vilna Shul
Vilna Shul, a historic landmark on Beacon Hill and Boston's last remaining immigrant-era synagogue (now a Jewish cultural center), presents their annual Voices of Humanity concert on May 7 at 3pm.
In this community event, three Boston-based choirs will perform uplifting songs from Jewish, Muslim, and Christian traditions in an expression of unity and hope.
Location: 18 Phillips St, Beacon Hill, Boston
Tickets & more information: Vilna Shul website
2 Easy Ways to Save BIG in Boston on Tours, Cruises, Admissions
Best way to save in Boston. Save up to 50% when you take a Boston Harbor cruise or Duck Boat tour, visit Plimouth Plantation, the New England Aquarium, Museum of Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Fenway Park Tour, and more.
Compare to find out which one is best for you.
Harpoon Fest
Harpoon Brewery (306 Northern Ave, South Boston Waterfront) celebrates spring, local bands and DJs, and local brews with a 2-day beer festival at their brewery featuring a large selection of Harpoon beers, seltzers, and ciders, and food trucks.
Dates: May 19 and 20, rain or shine
Cost: Tickets (credit cards onlyi) start at $35 - Includes festival entrance, souvenir cup, and first beer.
Nearest T station: Silver Line 2/Harbor Ave
Age: 21+
More information and advance tickets: Harpoon Brewery website
Not Sure about Boston Neighborhood Locations?
This neighborhood map should help you get oriented. You can find a list of top attractions in each neighborhood here.
Need a more details? Here are our favorite free and low-cost Boston maps.
Lawn on D
Lawn on D, a playground for adults (kids are welcome too but this is primarily an adult venue) located behind the Convention Center in the South Boston Waterfront, is where you'll find fun swings with LED lights and comfy seating, pickleball and other games, and music throughout the summer and early fall, along with casual food and wine, beer, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Opening date: May 1
Open daily from 7am-11pm from May to October, except when closed for private events (always check their website before going).
Food, drinks, and lawn games available Thursday 3-10:30pm, Friday & Saturday 12 noon-11pm, Sunday 12 noon-10:30pm, with live entertainment by local bands on the weekends.
Swings are open whenever Lawn on D is open.
Rules, in case you're wondering: No dogs, no outside alcohol, no outside food during concession hours.
Another option in this area is to sample one of the many restaurants in the Seaport and Fort Point areas of the South Boston Waterfront.
For Boston Harbor views while you dine, visit a Seaport restaurant. To try the creative cuisine of some of Boston's most innovative chefs, head to a Fort Point restaurant.
Featured New Hotel for May: Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton
One Dalton Street, Boston's Back Bay neighborhood
The opening this month of Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street in Boston's third tallest building brings another 5-star luxury hotel to chic Back Bay.
You'll enjoy the excellent location near renowned Newbury Street, top cultural attractions, and Fenway Park - plus the onsite spa, restaurant, and bar, and superb service.
Boston Theater Marathon XXIV
Even though the Boston Theater Marathon, produced by the Boston Playwrights' Theatre, stretches across a weekend filled with full-length play reading, the heart of this part-festival, part-race takes place from noon until 10pm on one special day when 50 New England theater actors, directors, and technicians present 50 new 10-minute plays produced by 50 New England theaters.
To call this event "lively" is an understatement! In one short 10-hour period, you'll see the wide diversity of Boston theater in this showcase for the local and New England theater community
Inspired by the iconic Boston Marathon, the Theater Marathon is an endurance event designed to make connections between local playwrights and local theaters.
When: May 18, noon-10pm (ticket needed)
Where: Boston Playwrights' Theatre, 949 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston
Tickets: $35 purchased online; all net proceeds benefit the non-profit Theatre Community Benevolent Fund to provide financial help for actors in dire need
More information: https://www.bu.edu/bpt/our-programs/boston-theatre-marathon/
SoWa Open Market Opening Day & Sunday Markets
A sea of white, blue, and even a few red tents await you at SoWa, Boston's biggest outdoor art and indie market showcasing over 100 local and regional artists, artisans, designers, and creators in Boston's South End.
Add in musicians, the SoWa Vintage Market (downstairs at 450 Harrison Ave) Sundays, 10am-4pm all year), and onsite food trucks, and you have the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Vendors are carefully chosen to avoid duplication - plus the mix of vendors is different every week, so you never know what you'll find.
More information: What to shop for at SoWa Open Markets
When: Every Sunday from May 7 through October 29, 10am - 4pm (to be confirmed)
Where: 530 Harrison Ave, Boston's South End
Closest T station: Orange Line/Back Bay, or Red Line/Broadway
Free Art and Architecture Tour at BPL
Join one of the Boston Public Library's free tours offered once a day almost every day. You'll see highlights of the library's magnificent Renaissance Revival architecture by Charles Follen McKim and late 20th century building by Philip Johnson.
You'll also get to view some of the many works by famous artists throughout the building.
Tours last about an hour, and are conducted by trained volunteer guides.
When: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in May - and throughout the year; times vary
Where: Meet at Dartmouth Entrance (McKim Building), 700 Boylston Street, Copley Square, Boston
Cost: Free
Closest T station: Green Line/Copley
More information: 617-536-5400; BPL website - click on on Visit/Tours to get dates and times.
More about Boston Public Library
Boston Discount Cards for Attractions, Tours, Cruises
Best way to save in Boston. Save 50% or more when you take a Boston Harbor cruise or Duck Boat tour, visit Plimouth Plantation, the New England Aquarium, Museum of Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Fenway Park Tour, and more.
Compare to find out which one is best for you.
Greenway Open Market
Greenway Open Market, sister market to SoWa Open Market (held Sundays in the South End), brings an eclectic mix of hand-made art, music, and locally produced products to Boston.
Look for the sea of white vendor tents - and get ready for some fun shopping, plus good eating at the gourmet food trucks.
With a different mix of vendors present each week, you never know what treasures you'll find! It's a quintessential Boston event.
When: Every Saturday from May 1 through October 31,
11am - 5pm
Where: Rose Kennedy Greenway, near Rings Fountain along the Wharf District parks (look for the Carousel and the vendors' white tents)
Nearest T station: Blue Line/Aquarium, or Orange and Green Lines/Haymarket
Cost: Free (but of course you'll probably be tempted to buy things
Opening Day for Boston Harbor Islands
Hop on a ferry at Boston's Long Wharf (near the Boston Marriott Long Wharf) for a 15 minute cruise to Georges or Spectacle Island. Join a free tour led by the Park Rangers, or enjoy a day of exploring historic sites, photographing birds, enjoying a picnic, hiking, swimming, wading in tidal pools, or simply enjoying the scenery.
When: Saturday, May 18 to Spectacle Island; service from Boston to both Spectacle and Georges Islands begins June 22
Where: Long Wharf - North (ferry location)
Closest T station: Blue Line/Aquarium
Cost: Check Boston Harbor Islands for current ticket costs. You can buy your tickets at Long Wharf ticket booth
More information: Park Rangers: 617-223-8666; Harbor Island Express: 617-222-6999
Ancient Fishweir Project on Boston Common
When: May 4 (to be confirmed) through June, with dance and music performances by the Wampanoag Nation Singers and Dancers on Monday, June 1 during school hours
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Each year, members of the local Wampanoag and Massachusetts Nations collaborate with about 1,000 Boston public school students to build a 150 foot fishweir sculpture on the Common.
The fishweir commemorates those built by local Native people about 5,000 years ago to catch alewife, herring, smelt, and salmon in the tidal flats then covering the area.
Remnants of these still exist, buried in layers of clay 28-35 feet under the city's streets.
This ephemeral fishweir is Boston's only centrally-located historical monument focused exclusively on the Native people who lived here for 12,000 years before the arrival of the Puritans.
If you want to take a look at this temporary memorial, you'll easily find it close to the path running from Charles Street to the baseball field.
More info: Ancient Fishweir Project
Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill Special Tour 2024
Once a year on the third Thursday in May, a dozen or so Beacon Hill Garden Club members open their gardens to the public for a special Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill self-guided tour.
Celebrate spring by spending a day exploring the secret gardens in this historic Boston neighborhood. But don't forget to break for a relaxing brunch or lunch in one of these wonderful neighborhood spots:
- 75 Chestnut Street - Brunch menu will be available in dining room or on the patio
- Peregrine at the Whitney Hotel - (170 Charles Street) - Start your day with breakfast here, enjoy coastal Italian specialties for lunch, or relax with a glass of wine at the bar
- The Paramount (44 Charles Street) - Classic diner food with a huge local fan base
- The King & I (145 Charles Street) - Some of the best Thai food in Boston
- The Grotto (37 Bowdoin Street) - Wonderful Mediterranean cuisine; nice wine list
More about Boston and Cambridge Garden Tours
When: Thursday, May 16, 9am - 5pm, rain or shine
Where: Beacon Hill; hostess booths will be at the corners of Charles and Mt. Vernon Street
Closest T stations: Green and Red Lines/Park
If you drive: Park in the garage under Boston Common; if you plan to find on-the-street parking, read this first
Cost: $60 advance reservations (see website for deadline), $80 day of the event
More information: Beacon Hill Garden Club website
More about What to See & Do in Beacon Hill
Cinco de Mayo Celebration & More in Downtown Crossing
Enjoy free serenade of Mexican folk music and bilingual public performances by Zaira Meneses and Daniela Gomez to celebrate Cinco de Mayo at The Stairs in Downtown Crossing (1 Franklin Street) on Friday, May 5 from 12 noon - 2pm.
Also in DTX: The Downtown Boston Arts Market opens on pedestrian-only Summer Street Plaza on Thursday, May 4, and will be open every Thursday and Friday from 11am - 5:30pm going forward.
Stop by and check out handcrafted products including jewelry, sculptures, clothing and more offered by 20+ vendors, including local and minority-owned businesses.
Look for other live music and entertainment in this area as well!
More information on the DTX website (click on Explore/Events Calendar)
Mother's Day Events in Boston
Mother's Day is on Sunday, May 12. Check out things to do with your mom in Boston on Mother's Day
More Mother's Day events:
- Duckling Day Parade
- Lilac Sunday
- Where to Go for Mother's Day Brunch
- SoWa Open Market
- Theatre and Shows
Mother's Day Harbor Cruises
Treat her to a fun, relaxing cruise around Boston Harbor aboard the Northern Lights classic 1940s-style commuter yacht or Adirondack III, Boston's own "tall ship" schooner.
Enjoy the music, treat your mom to the beverage of her choice, and smile as you watch her relax and enjoy the best views of Boston.
Mothers Day Cruise
- Mother's Brunch Day Cruise with Live Jazz - Celebrate your mom while you enjoy a delicious brunch and live jazz on this relaxing Harbor cruise - May 12
More Cruises on Mothers Day Weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
- Adirondack III Day Sail - Relax with your mom on this afternoon sail
- Boston Harbor Cruise on Northern Lights - Toast your mom with a drink from the bar
- Adirondack III Sunset Sail - Watch the setting sun turn the sky brilliant colors
- Northern Lights Sunset Cruise - Treat your mom to refreshments from the bar as you relax and watch the sun set
- Brunch Cruise on the Northern Lights - Savor a delicious 3-course brunch with your mom on this sightseeing cruise
Revere Beach Kite Festival 2024
Celebrate spring by heading to Revere Beach, America's oldest public beach, on Sunday, May 19 at 10am-1pm for the annual family-friendly kite festival with kite decorating, live music, and of course, kite flying.
Bring your own kite, and watch it soar. You'll see people of all ages flying kites, having a great time, and enjoying this lovely 2-mile long expanse of sun and water.
Don't forget that across the street from the pavilion, you can get fabulous fried clams or a lobster roll at Kelly's Roast Beef, just a short walk from the Blue Line's Wonderland Station.
More about Revere Beach and other Boston beaches
SoWa First Fridays
On May 3 as well as on other SoWa First Fridays in Boston's art-filled South End, over 60 galleries south of Washington Street and at the Artist's Guild at 450 + 460 Harrison Ave, and nearby businesses and restaurants open their doors from 5pm to 9pm to give you a chance to experience the vibrant South End arts community.
Start at either 450 or 460 Harrison, and just follow the gallery lights and signs as you stroll around the neighborhood.
Wrap up your evening at one of the South End's renowned restaurants.
Duckling Day Parade - 2024
For the perfect Mother's Day celebration, join Boston's annual Duckling Day Parade with your young children - and be sure to bring your camera!
You'll retrace the path taken by Mr. and Mrs. Mallard and their own flock of 8 young ducklings in Robert McCloskey's beloved children's book, Make Way for Ducklings.
To really get into the spirit, dress your offspring in yellow to resemble their favorite Ducklings characters, and decorate your stroller or even a wagon.
When: Mother's Day Sunday, May 12, with entertainment on the Common, including the Harvard University Band, starting at 10am until the parade kicks off at around noon
Where: Boston Common and the Public Garden - Starts at the Parkman Bandstand on Boston Common and ends in the Public Garden near the Make Way for Ducklings statues.
Cost: $35 before May 6 ($40 on day of event) donation per family, which includes a special goodie bag for each child; proceeds benefit the nonprofit Friends of the Public Garden
More info
Need cute duckling outfits? Here's our favorite selection on Amazon (#ad).
More about the Duckling Day Parade
For a special Mother's Day weekend, stay in a hotel overlooking the Public Garden. Here are several with spectacular views to consider:
Hotels with Public Garden & Boston Common Views
Find out more about these spectacular hotels
Treat Your Mom to a Relaxing Mother's Day Harbor Cruise
Your Mom: Busy helping others, sometimes stressed, definnitely deserves a break!
Treat her to a fun, relaxing cruise around Boston Harbor aboard the Northern Lights classic 1940s-style commuter yacht or Adirondack III, Boston's own "tall ship" schooner.
Enjoy the music, treat your mom to the beverage of her choice, and smile as you watch her relax and enjoy the great views.
Mothers Day Cruise
- Mother's Brunch Day Cruise with Live Jazz - Celebrate your mom while you enjoy a delicious brunch and live jazz on this relaxing Harbor cruise - May 12
More Cruises on Mothers Day Weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
- Adirondack III Day Sail - Relax with your mom on this afternoon sail
- Boston Harbor Cruise on Northern Lights - Toast your mom with a drink from the bar
- Adirondack III Sunset Sail - Watch the setting sun turn the sky brilliant colors
- Northern Lights Sunset Cruise - Treat your mom to refreshments from the bar as you relax and watch the sun set
- Brunch Cruise on the Northern Lights - Savor a delicious 3-course brunch with your mom on this sightseeing cruise
Take Your Mom for a Mother's Day Brunch
Your Mom: Loves to cook, and made a fantastic (or at least edible, most of the time) dinner every night when you were growing up.
But let's face it...that adds up to almost 10,000 dinners (not to speak of breakfasts, school lunches, and snacks for your entire soccer team) - So now, Mother's Day is her chance to enjoy a meal cooked by someone else.
Here are suggestions for where to treat her to a special Mother's Day brunch in Boston:
- Miel Brasserie, at the InterContinental Boston - Treat your mom to a feast at Miel's Mother's Day brunch featuring an omelette station, lobster benedict, fruits, parfaits, French toast, a carving station, salads, and a sushi and seafood raw bar. Save room for the chef's dessert table!
- Mamma Maria in Boston's North End - Northern Italian cuisine featuring local and New England products, with a seasonal menu that changes daily
- Peregrine in the Whitney Hotel in Beacon Hill - Enjoy patio dining and Peregrine's Italian coastal specialties
- Carmelina's in Boston's North End - Southern Italian cuisine at its finest, with one of the tastiest red sauces in the neighborhood. Go for the calamari fra diavolo, the pasta with Bolognese sauce, or the pesce al forno, and then head for one of the neighborhood bakeries for dessert
- 75 Liberty Wharf, Seaport neighborhood - So many great choices! Try the raspberry-stuffed French toast, the Seaport lobster toast, the Mediterranean platter, or the Nantucket Seafood Stew as you enjoy the views overlooking Boston Harbor
- Q Restaurant in Boston's Chinatown/Theatre District) - Share Mongolian hot pot with your mom, or choose from the extensive Chinese entrees and sushi selections
- Bistro du Midi in Back Bay - Start with a shellfish platter, and proceed to bavette steak and eggs or perhaps a croque madame, and you'll almost believe you're enjoying brunch in Paris - even though you're at this favorite Boston French restaurant overlooking the Public Garden
- Stephanie's on Newbury in Back Bay - Relax with your mom on Stephanie's huge terrace overlooking Newbury Street, and treat yourselves to her favorite brunch classics: cinnamon monkey bread, a smoked salmon platter, New England clam chowder, and an ice cream sundae
- Cafe Luna in Kendall Square, Cambridge - Take your mom to brunch (9am-4pm) and indulge her with steak and lobster eggs benedict, lemon ricotta pancakes, or the housemade corned beef hash with eggs; dine indoors or at a sidewalk table.
Forgot to make reservations? Take your mom for Dim Sum in Boston's Chinatown - but pretend that's what you were planning all along. You'll see other mom/child couples doing the same thing.
More fun possibilities (because who doesn't love pizza?):
Lilac Sunday - Mother's Day Event
The Arnold Arboretum's large lilac collection bursts into glorious bloom in May, putting on an exuberant show of color and intoxicating fragrance just in time for Mother's Day.
Visit on Lilac Sunday to enjoy family-oriented activities in honor of Mother's Day - or come any time during early-to-mid-May to experience the unforgettable scent of these gorgeous lilacs.
Lilac Sunday is the only day of the year when the Arboretum allows picnics - so take advantage by bringing a tasty brunch or lunch and perhaps a blanket for sitting.
When: May 12; lilac tours and family activities from 10am - 3pm; Arboretum open from dawn to dusk
Where: Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Jamaica Way, Boston
Closest T station: Orange Line/Forest Hills; follow the signs to the Arboretum, about a 10 minute walk
Parking: Street-side parking spaces are always quite limited so don't count on finding any available on Lilac Sunday - take public transportation!
Cost: Free
More information: 617-524-1718; Arnold Arboretum website
Looking Ahead to June Events in Boston
More Things to Do in Boston in May
More Ways to Experience Boston in May
Balmy May days make exploring the city easy. These fun trolley tours, bus tours, and special destinations let you enjoy Boston at its best!
Continuing during May
- Noon Concerts at King's Chapel on the Freedom Trail
- First Fridays at Museum of Fine Arts
Boston Events Each Month
January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | Year at a Glance
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