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10 Best Things to Do in Boston’s Seaport District

Dec 04, 2025

Boston Seaport Night View

Boston’s Seaport District is home to some of the city’s best attractions, events, and coastal views. From world-class museums and parks to shopping centers and local breweries, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling part of the city.

While there are endless opportunities for fun in the district, we’ve compiled 10 of the best things to do in Seaport to narrow things down for your next trip. Whether you choose to try one or all, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Seaport Boston.

Quick Guide to the Best Things to Do in Seaport Boston:

Attraction
Best For Pro-Tip / Location
One Seaport Shopping & Movies Highest concentration of retail in the district
City Cruises Harbor Tours & Whale Watches Leaves directly from the Seaport District
Harpoon Brewery Local Craft Beer & Festivals Weekly events and fresh local brews
Boston Children’s Museum Family & Kid-Friendly Activities Perfect for a rainy day or keeping kids engaged
The ICA Boston Modern Art & Culture Free admission every Thursday from 5 to 9 PM
The Lawn On D Outdoor Games & Live Music Snap a picture on the famous scenic swings
Martin’s Park Inclusive Play Spaces Located right next to the Children’s Museum
Fan Pier Waterfront Walks & Photography One of the East Coast’s most coveted view sites
Boston Tea Party Museum Immersive American History Features live actors and 18th-century vessels
Waterfront Dining Fresh Seafood & Italian Eats Endless culinary options along the harbor

1. One Seaport

If you want to go on a shopping spree or find some entertainment for the entire family, One Seaport is your one-stop shop for it all. The mall has the highest concentration of retail space in the Seaport District with everything from stores and restaurants to fitness centers and premium entertainment experiences (a trip to the movies anyone?). 

2. City Cruises

Many Boston harbor cruises leave from the Seaport District. Companies offer romantic dinner cruises, day-time harbor tours, seasonal whale watches, and even excursions to the islands sitting just offshore. 

3. Harpoon Brewery

The Seaport District is home to some of Boston’s best breweries, including Harpoon Brewery and Beer Garden. This is one of the largest breweries in the area that serves fresh brews and offers weekly events and fun seasonal festivals you shouldn’t miss if you’re in the city.

4. Boston Children’s Museum

There are plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Boston Seaport as well. The Boston Children’s Museum is the perfect place to spend a rainy day with your kids or help keep them engaged during your stay. If you are traveling with kids, make sure to search for a family-friendly hotel in Seaport before your stay to make the experience a breeze.

 

5. The Institute of Contemporary Art

The Boston Seaport District also has a bustling art scene. The Institute of Contemporary Art has new and modern exhibits that you shouldn’t miss. As a bonus for your itinerary, the ICA is free for all visitors every Thursday from 5 to 9 PM.

6. The Lawn On D

To soak up the outdoors, make sure to visit The Lawn On D for live music events, lawn games, local food trucks, drinks, and more! The entire family will enjoy this interactive outdoor space while the scenic swings are the perfect place to snap a group picture.

7. Martin’s Park

Let the kids burn off some energy at Martin’s Park. The park is an inclusive play space for children of all ages and abilities to have fun and explore while out in nature. It’s also located conveniently right outside the Boston Children’s Museum, making it easy to visit both back-to-back.

8. Fan Pier

Take in the waterfront views with a stroll on Fan Pier. This is one of the East Coast’s most coveted waterfront sites and a testament to outdoor architecture, and the perfect backdrop for a photo of the Boston skyline.

9. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum 

History lovers looking for what to do in Boston Seaport will enjoy a dramatic and engaging reenactment of this historic American event. Live actors, interactive exhibits, and full-scale 18-century sailing vessels all make the experience one you won’t soon forget.

10. Waterfront Restaurants

Of course, we can’t forget about the many waterfront restaurants that are also worth a stop. In the Seaport District, you’ll find everything from the freshest seafood, American classics, and mouth-watering Italian delicacies to indulge in.

Seaport Events

The Seaport District also hosts many weekly, seasonal, and annual events that can be fun for the entire family.If you are visiting during the summer, make sure to check out the open-air Boston Seaport summer market to browse local vendors and artisans.

When it comes time to find a place to stay, you want to ensure you can get a good night’s sleep so you can be completely rested for the next day and all it has to offer.

 

Finding a Seaport Hotel is easy when you book with Hampton Inn & Homewood Suites. Both accommodations place you directly in the heart of the Seaport District and within walking distance of many of these great attractions. 

 

Book your next stay today and check out some of these best things to do in Boston Seaport’s District.

Frequently Asked Questions: Visiting Seaport Boston

What is the best time of year to visit Boston’s Seaport District?

While Seaport is a year-round destination, late spring through early autumn is spectacular. Summer is especially popular due to outdoor events like The Lawn On D, harbor cruises, and the open-air Boston Seaport summer market.  

Are there kid-friendly things to do in Seaport Boston?

Yes! The Seaport District is incredibly family-friendly. Top spots for kids include the interactive Boston Children’s Museum, the inclusive playground at Martin’s Park, and the lawn games at The Lawn On D.  

Can you walk to attractions from hotels in the Seaport District?

Absolutely. The Seaport District is highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly. Staying at a centrally located hotel like the Hampton Inn & Homewood Suites Boston Seaport District puts you within walking distance of Fan Pier, One Seaport, and top waterfront dining.  

What are the top cultural or historical attractions in Seaport? 

For art and culture, visit The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA). For history, check out the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, which features live historic reenactments and full-scale 18th-century ships. 

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Endless adventures by land or sea await you at the Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston Seaport. Book an elevated room or an apartment-style suite today!

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