So you’ve just moved to Boston or you’re calling Boston home for the summer. Either way, you may be asking yourself, “What is there to see and do in my new home?” You’re in luck, because now is the time to take advantage of the glorious sunshine and warm temperatures that create the perfect backdrop for fun activities in Boston.
We’re often asked by guests staying in our temporary furnished apartments about fun things to do in Boston, ranging from tourist attractions to hidden gems known only by local Bostonians. Here are some of our favorite finds we share with them and recommend for you to explore as well.
Fun Summer Activities in Boston
Hop on the ferry and explore Boston’s islands.
Did you know Boston has 34 islands and peninsulas spread over 50 square miles of bays, harbors and rivers? Hop on the ferry and take a short cruise to the Boston Harbor Islands. From exploring a Civil War-era fort to hiking lush trails, there are plenty of things to see, do and learn while visiting any of these Boston islands. Visit the Boston Harbor Islands website for ferry schedules and activities.
Attend a summer festival.
July is high season for festivals and other summer events in Boston. For music fans, hit up Outside the Box Boston, with more than 115 performances taking place on Boston Common (check the schedule for July performances). Bring the kids to the Family Film Festival for movies, games and prizes, or FunFest on July 15 for a day of ice cream and music.
Pedal your way around Boston.
Why see Boston on foot when you can discover it by bicycle? Take advantage of Hubway, the city’s bike share program, where you can hop on and off bikes throughout Boston. Hubway even recommends their favorite rides, including the Charles River Esplanade, Boston Harborwalk and Cambridge Reel Ride.
Visit the Public Garden and ride the Boston swan boats.
While swan boat season stretches from mid-April through mid-September, you’ll enjoy the best weather right now in the middle of summer. Experience the beautiful Boston Public Garden from the water, soak in the sun, and maybe even spot a real majestic swan doing this popular Boston activity. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
See a Broadway classic.
From now until July 23, Broadway’s hit musical Wicked is performing live at the Boston Opera House. Defy gravity while beating the summer heat at this popular sensation. It’s Wicked awesome, as the Bostonians would say.
What to Do in Boston in August
Ride the carousel along Rose Kennedy Greenway.
If you’re on a family vacation, the little ones will appreciate the chance to see Boston from atop a carousel in Boston’s newest park. Once your ride is done, there’s still plenty to do in this mile-long greenway, from cooling off in the splash fountain to grabbing a bite from one of Boston’s trendy food trucks.
See the Boston Carnival Parade.
Your summer in Boston won’t be complete without experiencing this vibrant and infinitely colorful Caribbean parade on August 26. The free festivities start at noon at Warren Street and MLK Boulevard. Don’t miss the Caribbean food court in front of Franklin Park Zoo.
Explore the Boston Harbor with brunch.
There’s no better way to discover the Boston Harbor than on a boat with brunch. From now until the end of September, Boston Harbor Cruises allows you to sail by three of Boston’s famous lighthouses while enjoying lobster BLTs, house-made granola, seasonal salads and a cash bar.
Get cultured on a walking tour.
Who knew there were so many different ways to take in Boston by foot? Jump on a Historical Pub Crawl and discover hidden factual secrets accompanied by cold beers. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, join the Back Bay Chocolate Walking Tour available every Saturday at 10:15am to learn the life and history of chocolate while sampling delectable treats. You’ll never see Boston the same way again.
When it comes to enjoying fun summer activities, this list of things to do in Boston is just the first lick of the ice cream cone, so to speak. You can read more about a wide range of Boston summer events and happenings in and around Boston at Boston Discovery Guide.
Looking for Short Term Rentals in Boston this Summer?
To learn more about your options for enjoying a summer with the local convenience of short term rentals or temporary furnished apartments in Boston—including summer furnished housing specials in Boston—contact Furnished Quarters at 1-800-255-8117.
Keith Munsell 
