Most of us can't take as many vacations as we'd like, but in Boston, you don't have to make a major time commitment to have an epic adventure. You can fit these 9 unique activities into a day, or sometimes even an afternoon!
1. Ride Codzilla.
You'll never forget a ride on Codzilla. This fast boating experience lets you spin 360 degrees and travel up to 40 miles per hour around Boston Harbor!
Address: 1 Long Wharf, Boston.
2. Spend an afternoon biking.
Boston is filled with bike paths. Go biking along the Southwest Corridor or along the Charles River Bike Path. If you're just visiting, consider taking an organized bike tour or renting a bike through Hubway.
3. Hit the tracks.
Go kart racing? In Boston? Well, technically this adventure is in Braintree, but yes! Zip around either the city- or country-themed tracks, complete with tight turns and tunnels. If it's an adrenaline jolt you're seeking, look no further.
Address: 290 Wood Road, Braintree.
4. Bring back playtime.
If you're short on funds, go old school at Lawn on D. Here, visitors to the Seaport and neighborhood residents alike can play free bocce games, Jenga, and indulge in "swing time." Grab some friends and go low tech for a few hours. Since this is outdoors, Lawn on D is a seasonal attraction.
Address: 420 D Street, Boston.
5. Join the Boston Tea Party.
Touristy? Sure... but it's also a lot of fun! Don't wait for out-of-town guests to arrive before visiting the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. Part reenactment, part history class, you'll find yourself hoisting containers into Boston Harbor with gusto and ogling the last surviving tea crate from the event itself.
Address: 306 Congress Street, Boston.
6. Get to know your inner Sherlock Holmes.
Mystery Café Dinner Theater - the first folks to put on a murder mystery dinner - are still offering a menu of crime. Snag some tickets, then head to the Elephant and Castle Pub on select nights for an evening of death and dining. Alternatively, check out Murder at the Mansion, a live version of Clue that takes place in Dedham.
7. Discover a new hiking area.
Have you explored all the green spaces in Greater Boston yet? There are so many that chances are good you've overlooked a few. Consider walking in Lynn Woods Reservation, World's End, or Rocky Woods in Medfield.
8. Try glass blowing.
Luke Adams Glass offers one-hour and three-hour classes in fused glass or glass blowing. Facing the furnace is quite an adventure! This is definitely a unique new skill to pick up.
Address: 416 Lenox Street, Suite 2, Norwood.
9. Paddle along the Charles.
Paddle Boston has multiple locations where (in warm months) you can rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard for a relaxing day of fun. Viewing the city from the water gives you a whole new perspective and appreciation for Boston.
What's the best quick adventure you've ever enjoyed in Boston? Share your favorites in the comments below! We always love hearing your recommendations for new experiences to try!
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