Boston in One Day: Hop Off at Must-See Stops

Breakfast: Faneuil Hall Food Court

If you're looking for a quick and diverse breakfast, head inside Quincy Market. The food court offers various options, from fresh pastries to breakfast sandwiches and bagels, all in a lively atmosphere.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Faneuil Hall Marketplace/New England Aquarium (Old Town Trolley)

USS Constitution & Museum

Explore the world’s oldest commissioned warship, which was pivotal in the War of 1812. The USS Constitution is a symbol of America’s early naval history.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: USS Constitution (Big Bus & Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Walk across the ship’s decks, see the ship's cannons and rigging, and learn about the famous “Old Ironsides” nickname.
Pro-tip: Take a guided tour for a deeper understanding of its significance in the early years of the American Navy.
Suggested time to spend: 45-60 minutes
Time to next stop: 10-15 minutes

Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile route that takes you to 16 historical sites. It tells the story of Boston’s crucial role in the American Revolution.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: TD Garden (Big Bus & Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground (the final resting place of Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere), King's Chapel.
Pro-tip: Wear comfortable shoes so you can easily cover the whole trail and make sure to stop at the informational landmark plaques.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 - 2 hours
Time to next stop: 10-15 minutes

Lunch: Union Oyster House

Enjoy a meal at this Boston landmark, one of the oldest restaurants in the U.S., known for its seafood and colonial-era charm.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Faneuil Hall Marketplace/New England Aquarium (Old Town Trolley)

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

The kids will love this interactive museum, where they can engage in live reenactments and learn about the Boston Tea Party through hands-on experience.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Participate in a reenactment of the Tea Party, throw “tea” into the harbor, and explore the two historical ships.
Pro-tip: The museum offers a family-friendly, engaging experience, especially for younger kids. Be sure to catch the multimedia presentations.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: 10-15 minutes

Granary Burying Ground

The Ground offers a deeply historical and reflective experience, allowing visitors to walk among the graves of Boston’s founding figures, while also offering insight into the city's colonial and revolutionary past.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: State House (Big Bus); Beacon Hill/Boston Common (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: See the graves of Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, John Hancock, and other revolutionary figures. Learn about the early American Revolutionaries.
Pro-tip: Take a moment to read the historical markers around the cemetery. These provide context about the roles these individuals played in early American history.
Suggested time to spend: 30 minutes
Time to next stop: 10 minutes

Old North Church

Visit the site where the famous "One if by land, two if by sea" lantern signal was lit, signaling Paul Revere’s midnight ride.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Steriti Memorial Ice Rink (Old Bus); Historic North End (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Don’t miss the Old North Church gift shop for unique Revolutionary War-related items, from historical books to souvenirs.
Pro-tip: Make sure to check out the small museum in the church to learn more about its role in American history.
Suggested time to spend: 30-45 minutes
Time to next stop: 5 minutes

Paul Revere House

Step into the home of Paul Revere, the famous patriot who warned the colonists of the British march. The house is now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Steriti Memorial Ice Rink (Old Bus); Historic North End (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Explore the preserved colonial home, learn about Revere’s role in the American Revolution, and view artifacts from the time period.
Pro-tip: The house is small, so be prepared for a quick but informative visit.
Suggested time to spend: 30-45 minutes
Time to next stop: 10-15 minutes

Dinner: The Green Dragon Tavern

Dine at this historic tavern, known as a meeting place for revolutionary figures like Samuel Adams and Paul Revere. The tavern's rich history makes it an excellent spot for history buffs.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Old State House (Old Bus); Historic North End (Old Town Trolley)

Breakfast: Tatte Bakery & Cafe, Summer Street

Start your day at this colorful, kid-friendly café near South Station with delicious pastries and fresh juices. It’s a great spot for families to fuel up for a day of adventure!

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Faneuil Hall Marketplace/New England Aquarium (Old Town Trolley)

New England Aquarium

The aquarium is a must-see for families, offering a variety of interactive exhibits, a giant ocean tank, and a touch tank where kids can feel starfish and sea urchins.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Faneuil Hall Marketplace/New England Aquarium (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Watch the sea lions play, explore the Penguin Pool, and visit the 3D IMAX theater for a film on ocean life.
Pro-tip: Allow some time for the kids to explore the touch tank and the interactive exhibits. Check out the daily animal feedings for a memorable experience.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: 10-15 minutes

Boston Common & Swan Boats

Spend time at the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the U.S., where kids can run around, have a picnic, or take a ride on the Swan Boats.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: MA Transportation Bldg/Big Bus Ticket Office (Big Bus); Beacon Hill/Boston Common (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Ride the famous Swan Boats on the Public Garden lagoon, visit the playgrounds, and enjoy the outdoor space.
Pro-tip: If you’re visiting during the warmer months, the Swan Boat ride is a must for kids. It’s relaxing and fun!
Suggested time to spend: 45 minutes
Time to next stop: 10 minutes

Lunch: The Paramount

A classic family-friendly spot known for its generous portions and classic American breakfast and lunch fare, including burgers, salads, and sandwiches.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: MA Transportation Bldg/Big Bus Ticket Office (Big Bus); Beacon Hill/Boston Common (Old Town Trolley)

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

The kids will love this interactive museum, where they can engage in live reenactments and learn about the Boston Tea Party through hands-on experience.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Participate in a reenactment of the Tea Party, throw “tea” into the harbor, and explore the two historical ships.
Pro-tip: The museum offers a family-friendly, engaging experience, especially for younger kids. Be sure to catch the multimedia presentations.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: 10-15 minutes

Boston Children's Museum

This museum is designed to stimulate young minds with hands-on exhibits. Kids can climb, play, and learn through fun activities like arts and crafts, building blocks, and water play.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: The construction zone, the art studio, and the bubble exhibit are favorites among children.
Pro-tip: Check out the Global Village that features exhibits from different countries, allowing kids to experience cultures from all around the world.
Suggested time to spend: 1-1.5 hours
Time to next stop: 10-15 minutes

Breakfast: Tatte Bakery & Cafe, Summer Street

Start your day with a simple, affordable breakfast at Tatte Bakery & Café. Known for its artisan pastries, hearty breakfast bowls, and good coffee, it's the perfect place to fuel up without overspending.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Faneuil Hall Marketplace/New England Aquarium (Old Town Trolley)

Boston Common & Public Garden

Start your day with a visit to Boston Common, the oldest public park in the U.S. From there, walk to the nearby Public Garden, both of which are free to visit. Enjoy a stroll through the park, check out the Make Way for Ducklings statue, and take in the beautiful greenery.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: MA Transportation Bldg/Big Bus Ticket Office (Big Bus); Beacon Hill/Boston Common (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Walk around the Public Garden, visit the Swan Boats (optional small fee), and enjoy the scenic views.
Pro-tip: Both parks are great for photo ops, and there’s no entry fee - perfect for a leisurely morning walk.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: 10-15 minutes

Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a must-do for history buffs and anyone visiting Boston. It’s a 2.5-mile route that covers 16 historical sites. While the full tour might cost a little, you can walk parts of it for free and enjoy several significant sites without paying an entrance fee.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: TD Garden (Big Bus & Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Visit Massachusetts State House, Old South Meeting House, and the Granary Burying Ground.
Pro-tip: The entire trail takes about 2-3 hours to walk, but you can choose which sites to visit for free. Stop in at Faneuil Hall for a quick look around.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: 10 minutes

Lunch: Quincy Market or Food Trucks

For lunch, head over to Quincy Market, where you’ll find food stalls offering affordable options like pizza, sandwiches, and local specialties such as clam chowder. Alternatively, consider grabbing lunch from a food truck, which often has great deals.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Faneuil Hall Marketplace/New England Aquarium (Old Town Trolley)

Boston Harborwalk & Christopher Columbus Park

After lunch, take a walk along the Boston Harborwalk, a scenic, free path along the waterfront. You can explore Christopher Columbus Park, which is also right on the water, and enjoy views of the harbor. This is a peaceful and cost-free way to experience Boston’s waterfront.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: New England Aquarium (Big Bus); Faneuil Hall Marketplace/New England Aquarium (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Stroll along the Harborwalk, visit Christopher Columbus Park, and relax by the water.
Pro-tip: Bring a water bottle and enjoy the cool breeze from the water—perfect for a budget-friendly break.
Suggested time to spend: 45 minutes
Time to next stop: 10 minutes

North End & The Rose Kennedy Greenway

Walk through Boston’s North End and explore the beautiful Rose Kennedy Greenway. This park area features beautiful gardens, fountains, and public art displays, making it a peaceful spot for a relaxed afternoon. The North End also offers free walking tours of its rich history.

Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Old State House (Old Bus); Historic North End (Old Town Trolley)
Highlights: Walk through the Greenway and check out the public artwork and fountains. If you're up for it, try a free walking tour of the North End to learn about Boston’s Italian heritage.
Pro-tip: The Greenway is a great spot to people-watch and relax. You can also grab an affordable Italian pastry at one of the North End bakeries if you're craving a treat.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: 15 minutes