Arnold Arboretum
Nestled in Boston’s historic Jamaica Plain neighborhood, the awe-inspiring Arnold Arboretum offers a vibrant, living museum of trees and plants from around the world. Spanning 281 acres of expertly manicured landscape gardens, this leafy oasis transports you far from the city’s bustling streets. Embark on a self-guided journey through over 15,000 varieties of plants, flowers, and trees along winding trails and paths. Can’t-miss highlights include the utterly charming Lilac Garden and Azalea Ponds, exploding with brilliant blooms each spring. Take your group on an invigorating three-mile trek around the arboretum’s forested valley or just find solace among towering conifers and colorful meadows.
Address: 125 Arborway, Boston, MA 02130
Phone: (617) 524-1718
SoWa Art + Design District
Located in Boston’s former Architectural Fabric Arts neighborhood, the SoWa Art + Design District is a funkytrendy enclave bursting with raw creative energy. As a hub for local artisans, entrepreneurs, and trendsetters, SoWa delights with its eclectic array of art galleries, showrooms, craft markets, restaurants, and happening events. Time your group visit for one of SoWa’s legendary open markets like the SoWa Vintage Market or SoWa Boston Village Farmers Market, overflowing with unique art, antiques, fashion, and mouthwatering eats from beloved food trucks. Get inspired wandering cutting-edge galleries, shop one-of-a-kind handmade goods direct from local makers, then refuel at one of SoWa’s buzzworthy craft breweries or hip cafés.
Address: 450-460 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118
The Mapparium
Talk about a hidden gem – most Bostonians don’t even know about this mind-bending attraction at the Mary Baker Eddy Library. Step inside The Mapparium, a literal three-story globe made entirely of stained glass, and behold one of the world’s most unique exhibitions. Featuring 608 stained glass panels and lit by a cozy amber glow, this trippy spherical wonder provides vantage points on world geography like nowhere else. As your group stands in the center bridge, marvel as continents seemingly bend and distort around you. Time your visit to catch one of the enlightening multimedia shows. Part geographical odyssey, part time capsule, The Mapparium transports you back to the 1930s in grandly immersive fashion.
Address: 200 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: (617) 450-7000
Bodwoin Crescent/Charlestown Navy Yard
Wander off the tourist trail over to the historic Charlestown Navy Yard and adjacent Bodwoin Crescent for a taste of classic Beantown charm. Soak in the salty sea air and take your group on a self-guided stroll past this residential enclave’s handsomely preserved 19th-century colonial brick rowhomes and manicured gardens. Don’t miss snapping pics in front of the iconic Bunker Hill Monument, a towering granite obelisk commemorating the first major battle of the American Revolution. Before leaving, stop by the Navy Yard’s Shipyard Quarterdeck for maritime museum exhibits and history on this former shipbuilding powerhouse. Relax by the marina and watch boats glide across Boston Harbor while keeping an eye out for resident seals!
Address: Charlestown, MA 02129
Phone: (617) 242-5641
Emerald Necklace
Welcome to one of America’s oldest and most magnificent urban park systems, Boston’s iconic Emerald Necklace. Strung together like a brilliant green jewel, these nine interconnected parks and parkways stretch for over 7 glorious miles across Boston from the Back Bay to Dorchester. Among the shining gems in the Emerald Necklace is Jamaica Pond, the breathtaking Jamaica Plain kettle hole offering idyllic views of the Boston skyline across its tranquil waters. Follow the Emerald Necklace’s lush trails shaded by towering trees through picturesque Jamaica Plain, Mission Hill, Roxbury, and Dorchester. Stop to picnic in lush meadows or rent a boat and take to the peaceful ponds. Jamaica Pond Park Dr. & Jamaicaway, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Mount Auburn Cemetery
One of the nation’s first landscaped rural cemeteries, the serene and stunning grounds of Mount Auburn provide the perfect escape into nature without even leaving Cambridge. This lush 174-acre sanctuary features rolling hills, quiet dells, reflective ponds, and winding paths just made for a relaxing afternoon stroll. Pay respects at the gravesites of prominent historical figures like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, founder of American Red Cross Clara Barton, and naturalist Henry David Thoreau. Join a guided tour to meander by sculptures, bird watch along the trails, or simply find tranquility among the ancient trees and vibrant gardens of this natural oasis. An unexpected yet awe-inspiring hidden gem!
Address: 580 Mt Auburn St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: (617) 547-7105
Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park
Want to getaway without actually leaving Boston? Then set sail with your group to the Boston Harbor Islands for an amazing back-to-nature island adventure! This cluster of 34 islands and peninsulas offer endless opportunities for hiking, beachcombing, bird watching, kayaking, camping, and more. Hop a ferry to fan-favorite islands like the scenic Spectacle Island with its towering North Drumlin Hill vistas, the serene and secluded Bumpkin Island, or Georges Island where you can explore historic Fort Warren. Be sure to time your island odyssey during one of the national park’s special events like outdoor movies, lighthouse tours, or guided nature walks. Escape to your own New England island paradise without even leaving Boston!
Address: 15 State St, Boston, MA 02109
Phone: (617) 223-8666
Lawn on D / Signature Park
Welcome to one of Boston’s most whimsical outdoor spaces, the playfully designed park and art installations known as Lawn on D and Signature Boston parks. Located on the footprint of the former Boston Convention Center, this sprawling 2.5 acre playground erupts with imaginative landscapes and interactive art displays by leading designers and architects. Let your sense of wonder run wild among inventive sculptures like the massive Swing Time installation of benches and chairs suspended mid-air. Marvel at the beloved Rainbow Swash display of vibrant arches, or simply relax on the sprawling lawn and play areas custom-built to spark your inner child! Coupled with on-site food trucks and bustling events, Lawn on D delivers non-stop fun and unexpected magic.
Address: 420 D Street, South Boston, MA 02210
Phone: (781) 643-6511
Plan Your Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventure With Boston Party Bus
Whether you’re visiting Boston or have lived here for years, these incredible hidden gems offer an authentic experience of the city’s vibrant personality that most tourists completely miss. But navigating Boston’s hectic streets while trying to locate parking and obscure attractions? Not exactly a stress-free good time. Skip the hassles and headaches by renting a charter bus from Boston Party Bus for your group’s off-the-beaten-path adventure! With Bus loads of amenities including plush seating, onboard restrooms, and entertainment systems, your personal bus rental will keep your group feeling energized and comfortable as you uncover Boston’s best-kept secrets! Our friendly team are Boston specialists, ensuring you’ll reach each destination efficiently while getting the inside scoop on cool local hotspots along the way. Ready to take on Boston’s most amazing hidden gems? Call up our knowledgeable reservation team at 857-317-8503 – an unforgettable Boston experience is just a bus rental away!