The last year has been a tricky one for travelers. With restrictions around the world, many people had no choice but to stay at home. And on top of that, vacation plans continue to look very different in 2021.
Many people have found themselves exploring their own backyards more extensively, with staycations and city breaks to nearby locations increasingly popular. Boston offers a wealth of great options for anyone looking for fun around the area. The place also has some brilliant socially distanced activities that are still going strong.
So while you might not be able to take a cruise from Boston right now, check out these fun and socially distanced activities that will make a staycation or a weekend in the city just as exciting as a trip abroad.
Eat and Shop at Bow Market
Somerville’s charming Bow Market has put strict new measures and procedures in place to ensure that everyone can enjoy the excellent array of wonderful shops and dining options safely and securely. Most shops are open normally with standard social distancing rules, while some can be booked for a private shopping slot for only $5. The market’s fantastic new fire pits provide scrumptious meals for anyone willing to reserve a 90-minute slot in advance.
Hit The Museum
Having implemented carefully guided routes to follow, online advance reservations, and capacity limits, loads of Boston’s wonderful museums opened to the public during phase three of Boston’s COVID-19 response. Although many closed their doors again during December and January, spring is likely to bring with it a resumption of socially distanced cultural highlights.
Check out the Peabody Museum and the Museum of Natural History at Harvard, the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, or the Museum of Science. If you don’t fancy an in-person visit, you can experience the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum from your own home with their great virtual programming tour.
Check Out Boston’s Public Garden
Although Boston’s weather can be chilly, you’ll hardly notice the cold when you are lost in the beauty of Boston Public Garden. A stroll around a park or green space is one of the best socially distanced activities you can do, and the Boston Public Garden offers a wonderful example of historic horticulture and botanic gardening. Don’t miss the Lagoon and its gorgeous Swan Boats, a real highlight of any visit to this picturesque location.
Explore The Freedom Trail
Boston’s Freedom Trail is a fascinating dive into the remarkable story of the city itself and the role it played during the US’s struggle for independence. The trail leads you through America’s journey from being a British colony to an independent nation via the landmarks of the city. This historical walkthrough helps you understand the events that took place on the streets and how they changed the history of this country.
Go Boating On Jamaica Pond
Jamaica Pond is the jewel of the “Emerald Necklace,” the largest lake in this lovely series of parks. Technically, it is a glacial kettle hole. The natural beauty of Jamaica Pond inspired the architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, to design a park around it. Now, it is a charming spot for boating in the summer. In colder weather, the Sugar Bowl offers great sledding opportunities and active folks will love jogging the mile-and-a-half path around the rim.
Ski at Blue Hills
For adrenaline-fueled adventure, look no further than the ski resort at Blue Hills. A quick jaunt by car from the center of town, these are some of New England’s finest slopes and would probably rival any across the country! Skiing is the perfect way to stay socially distanced while getting some much-needed exercise and fresh air.