Boston on a Budget - Five Things to See and Do

Photo by: Kafziel

Boston is known as America's 'walking city' and there is plenty to see and do here without blowing your budget. Whether you are visiting with friends, family or your partner, we have five great things to see and do on a budget in Boston.

#1. Head for Chinatown

Affordable eats can be found in the city centre and we recommend heading for Chinatown, where China Pearl offers great dim sum or Gourmet Dumpling House offers value-for-money lunch specials.

#2. Take a library tour

Created in 1885, the Boston Public Library is the US's second largest library and is home to murals by the artist John Singer Sargent, a map room, regularly-changing free exhibitions, and a magnificent Italian-style courtyard. Free tours run daily.

#3. Get cultural

It is easy to find free art in Boston. Lawn on D in South Boston has some cool interactive art exhibitions plus ping-pong tables, street food trucks and a bar. Alternatively head for the Museum of Fine Arts Boston (MFA) on a Wednesday after 4pm for free entry, which is home to works by John Singer Sargent, Monet and Hopper. The Children's Museum is also worth checking out if you have the little ones in tow - get $1 family entry from 5-9pm on Fridays and let the kids burn off some energy in the playroom, bubble room and Japanese house. This is a great choice for those rainy days.

#4. Drink like a local

Did you know that the renowned Samuel Adams Brewery offers free tours and tasting, with a suggested donation of $2 for local charities? Alternatively hop on the Orange Line to Everett, just 10 minutes away, and check out Night Shift Brewing. The $1 recommended donation gets you access to some really unusual flavoured beers, arcade games and an outdoor patio with street food trucks.

#5. Explore the coast

If you fancy escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for a bit, you can take a 30-minute train ride from North Station and explore the town of Salem. Its colonial houses and rich history ‒ it is famous for its links to witchcraft ‒ make it a tourist hotspot, yet the town retains a quaint, charming atmosphere. Check out Revere Beach, explore the cafes and psychic shops, or enjoy a crab roll at local institution Kelly's or treat yourself to a large roast beef sandwich for under $10.