things to do in boston in the winter

Things to do in Boston in Winter – Photo Credit: New England with Love

What is there to do in Boston in the winter? Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity for this upcoming weekend, or inspiration for a date night or hang out with friends, try these fun winter activities and the best places to visit. 

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The Go City All-Inclusive Pass provides admission to more than 40 popular Boston area things to do, including a hop-on hop-off bus tour, amusement parks, boat cruises, museums, tours, and more. Attractions include Boston Duck Tour, Boston Trolley Sightseeing Tour, Isabella Steward Gardner Museum (listed in our article below), Sam Adams Brewery Tour, Fenway Park Tour and more! 

Check out all the details about the Go City Boston All Inclusive Pass and save BIG! 

 

10 Things To Do in Boston In Winter: Activities, Attractions, and Events

*Please note: As of January 15th, individuals will be required to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to enter certain indoor spaces in Boston. For more information, visit B Together.

Winter Activities in Boston

1. The Rink at 401 Park

things to do in boston this winter the rink at 401 park

Photo Credit: Boston.com

When you think of the Fenway neighborhood, an ice skating rink isn’t exactly what comes to mind. In its second year running, The Rink at 401 Park offers locals the ultimate winter getaway in the city. In addition to times to free skate, The Rink offers skating lessons and even a broomball league. Thanks to their partner, REI, The Rink provides locals with great winter activities in Boston.

Where: The Rink at 401 Park Drive, Boston
How Much: $10 for Adults, $6 for College Students, Seniors and Kids under 12

Localite Tip: You can purchase your tickets in advance to secure your skate time to make sure you get the time and date you want. Afterward, grab a drink at Trillium next door – they have heat lamps outside so you’ll be able to watch the skaters and enjoy a cold brew!

 

2. Frost Fit with the Esplanade Association

Returning on January 30th, Frost Fit is back! Presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA, those looking for an outdoor, free, and let’s face it, chilly workout will be able to participate in this fitness series. Among the workouts, instructors from Lynx Fitness Club will be leading 45-minute, high-intensity interval training classes every week. Additionally, Winter Walks and workouts from The November Project are included in the series. Check out the guide of all the upcoming events here.

Where: The Hatch Shell, Charles River Esplanade, Boston
How Much: Free

 

3. Learn to Curl at Snowport

Things To Do in Boston In Winter: 10 Best Activities, Attractions, and Events

Photo Credit: Snowport Boston

Ever tried curling? Thanks to The North End Curling Club and Fjällräven, you can give it a go this winter in Boston! As a great winter activity in Boston, you’ll learn the basics of the sport and practice with real games on Snowports’s iceless curling lanes.

Where: 65 Northern Avenue, Boston
How Much: Free

Localite Tip: While parking in the Seaport can be a challenge, you can find parking at the One Seaport Garage located at 75 Sleeper Street.

 

4. Sip Hot Chocolate at L.A. Burdick

things to do this winter in boston la burdick hot chocolate

Photo Credit: L.A. Burdick

Regarded as the best hot chocolate in the city, stopping at L.A. Burdick is a must if you’re looking for things to do in Boston this winter. Deliciously rich and creamy, it’s the perfect pit stop on a snowy winter’s day, or after dinner for a dessert.

Where: L.A. Burdick Chocolates & Cafe, 220 Clarendon Street, Boston
How Much: Prices range from $4.75 for a small to $6 for a large, depending on the type of chocolate

Localite Tip: L.A. Burdick not only has delicious hot chocolate but is also home to one of the best chocolate chip cookies in the city. Don’t miss an opportunity to taste one!

 

5. Visit the Indoor Boston Public Market

This year-round market is the perfect activity to beat Boston winter weather since it’s all located indoors. With more than 30 local sellers, you’re bound to find the perfect specialty item or bite to eat.

Where: Boston Public Market, 100 Hanover Street, Boston
How Much: Free to enter, cost dependant on individual merchant’s prices

Localite Tip: It’ll be hard to miss Red Apple Farm’s section, with the smell of warm cider donuts wafting in the air. Definitely stop to taste one!

 

6. Watch a BU Ice Hockey Game

Boston University is just one of the 35 colleges located in the city of Boston, so it won’t be hard to find a game that you and your family can attend. From the Boston College/Boston University rivalry to Northeastern’s and Harvard’s hockey program, check the websites of the colleges for a game that fits your famil’sy schedule.

Where: Boston University – Agganis Arena 925 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston
How Much: Average college hockey ticket cost is $35 a game

Localite Tip: If you’re able to take a bit of a risk and wait to buy a ticket, tickets can sometimes get as low as $15 the day of the event

 

7. Stay Warm and Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

things to do this winter in boston Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Photo Credit: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum – Sean Dungan

The Gardner Museum is the perfect place to escape the Boston winter cold. Modeled after a Venetian palazzo, the museum is home to some of the world’s most remarkable art collections. Make sure to check out “This Is A Robbery: The World’s Biggest Art Heist” on Netflix before heading to the museum to learn about the 1990 heist that occurred at the museum.

Where: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, 25 Evans Way, Boston
How Much: $20 for Adults, $18 for Seniors and $13 for Students

Localite Tip: The first Thursday of every month, the museum is free to the public. That said, a ticket is required in advance, so make sure you reserve in advance!

 

8. Visit the Boston Opera House

This winter, visit the historic Boston Opera House to view a theater or ballet performance. The interior of the Opera House is stunning, and home to award-winning performances.

Where: 539 Washington Street, Boston
How Much: Tickets vary pending on show, starting at $25

 

9. Sip a Cold One at Night Shift Brewery

things to do in boston this winter night shift brewery

Photo Credit: Night Shift Brewery

While the Night Shift headquarters is located just a little outside the city, their newer location at Lovejoy Wharf is right near the TD Garden and features some of their more creative offerings.

Where: 1 Lovejoy Wharf #101, Boston
How Much: Free to enter, beer prices range $7 – $10

Localite Tip: The brewery was recently awarded the Best Pizza by Best of Boston, so order a pie while you’re there!

 

10. Take a Cooking Class at Eataly 

With a variety of Italian cooking classes offered, a cooking class at Eataly is sure to warm you up with comfort food this winter. From basic classes, to meet and greets with chefs, to sip and savor classes with craft beer and Italian salumi, you and yours are bound to find the perfect class for you.

Where: 800 Boylston Street, Boston
How Much: Prices vary depending on the event, $20 – $115

 

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Brigid Sweeney
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