Boston has many museums that are great for everyone. If you love museums, Boston is a perfect place to visit, especially if you’re exploring with Boston Bus Services.
Most people visit the big museums like the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA), Museum of Science, and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. They also explore the famous stops along the Freedom Trail. But there are also smaller, less-known museums that are interesting and unique. These museums focus on different topics or parts of history that you might not know much about.
Whether you live in Boston and want to discover more about your city, you’re a parent looking for fun and educational activities for your kids, or you’re visiting for the weekend and want to see the best places, this guide will show you some hidden gems.
Here, you’ll find a list of Boston’s best museums that may not be as famous but are worth visiting to learn more about the city’s diverse culture and history.
- 1. Best Science Museum in Boston: Museum of Science
- 2. Best Boston Museum of Fine Arts
- 3. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- 4. Boston Children’s Museum
- 5. The Institute of Contemporary Art
- 6. Museum of African American History
- 7. USS Constitution Museum
- 8. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
- 9. Old State House
- 10. The Paul Revere House
- 11. Old South Meeting House
- 12. Boston Fire Museum
- 13. Metropolitan Waterworks Museum
- 14. The Sports Museum
- 15. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
- 16. Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate
- 17. Vilna Shul
- Planning a Group Trip to Boston’s Best Museums?
1. Best Science Museum in Boston: Museum of Science
The Museum of Science in Boston stands as a beacon of knowledge and discovery within the city. Its extensive collection boasts more than 30 exhibits that span the breadth of human understanding, ranging from the prehistoric world of dinosaurs to the forefront of nanotechnology. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of experiences, including captivating Omni and 4D films, live demonstrations, enlightening planetarium shows, and engaging public events.
Planning Your Visit:
Opening Hours: The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Recommended Visit Duration: Plan for about 3 to 4 hours to explore the exhibits and enjoy the shows.
Address: You can find the museum at 1 Museum Of Science Driveway, Boston.
Admission Fees:
$29 for children aged 12 years and older.
$25 for seniors aged 60 years and older.
$24 for children aged 3 to 11 years.
Whether you’re a science enthusiast, a family looking for an educational outing, or simply curious about the world around you, the Museum of Science in Boston promises a rewarding experience for all ages.
2. Best Boston Museum of Fine Arts
Established in 1870, this expansive museum spans 616,937 square feet and ranks among the world’s finest, housing nearly 500,000 artworks. Since 1909, it has resided at its present location, drawing over a million visitors annually to explore art ranging from ancient Egypt to contemporary times. The museum hosts special exhibitions, educational programs, and art classes year-round, complemented by several restaurants catering to visitors.
Visitor Information:
- Open Hours: Temporarily Closed
- Recommended Duration: Approximately 2 hours (more for art enthusiasts)
- Address: 465 Huntington Ave, Boston
- Entry Fee: USD 15-20
3. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston is one of our top picks, not just locally but nationally. It’s special because it blends intimacy with grandeur, housed in a palace-like building with a stunning courtyard. The museum showcases art collected by its founder, Isabella Stewart Gardner, who had a passion for travel and luxury. You’ll find masterpieces by famous artists like Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, and John Singer Sargent, alongside impressive architectural features. Gardner personally curated a collection of over 17,000 items including paintings, sculptures, furniture, textiles, and more. In 2012, a new wing designed by Renzo Piano opened, adding a cafe, gift shop, and space for contemporary artists, musicians, and scholars to collaborate and exhibit their work.
Visitor Information:
Open Hours: 11 AM – 5 PM
Recommended Duration: 2-3 Hours
Address: 25 Evans Way, Boston
Entry Fee:
USD 15 for adults
USD 12 for senior citizens
USD 5 for college students with ID cards
4. Boston Children’s Museum
The Boston Children’s Museum, one of the oldest in the USA, has a huge collection of over 50,000 historical objects. It’s in Boston, Massachusetts. The museum is all about teaching young children. They can touch and play with things in the exhibits to learn about science, history, culture, and art. There are also programs and workshops for different ages to help kids understand more about the world. Overall, the Boston Children’s Museum is a fun place for kids to learn and explore new ideas while seeing cool stuff.
Visitor Information:
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Recommended Visit Duration: 2 hours
Address: 308 Congress Street, Boston
Admission Fee: USD 17
5. The Institute of Contemporary Art
Established in 1936, The Institute of Contemporary Art aims to showcase the compelling influence of contemporary art and the creative expressions of modern artists. Today, the museum hosts exhibitions featuring works by renowned artists, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and creators alike.
Visiting Information:
Opening Hours: 11 AM – 5 PM, 11 AM – 9 PM on Thursday and Friday
Recommended Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Address: 25 Harbor Shore Drive, Boston
Admission Fee: USD 10-15
6. Museum of African American History
The Museum of African American History offers a comprehensive exploration of African American history, distinguishing itself as one of the few museums dedicated entirely to this narrative. Its primary mission is to preserve and showcase the significant contributions made by African Americans throughout history. The museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, artworks, manuscripts, and inventions that highlight these contributions.
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM to 4 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Recommended Visit Duration: 1-2 Hours
Address: 46 Joy St, Boston
Admission Fees: Adults: $10, Seniors: $8
7. USS Constitution Museum
Discover the USS Constitution Museum, located within a beautifully restored shipyard building at Pier 2. This museum offers a captivating journey through the history of the USS Constitution, with a range of exhibits and a comprehensive archive library showcasing the ship’s illustrious past.
Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and Wednesdays
Recommended Visit Duration: Approximately 1.5 Hours
Address: Boston Navy Yard, Building 22, Charlestown, Boston
Admission: Free
8. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Experience the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, recognized as the top patriotic attraction. Step aboard replicas of 18th-century sailing vessels and explore artifacts dating back 200 years. This floating museum offers an engaging experience with interactive exhibits, a theater, and a serene tea room terrace, ensuring a memorable visit for all.
Learn about the historic Boston Tea Party through guided tours and immersive displays that bring history to life. Conveniently located at 306 Congress St, Boston, the museum invites you to delve into its rich collection and enjoy a journey through American history.
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Mondays and Wednesdays)
Recommended Duration: 1 Hour
Address: 306 Congress St, Boston.
9. Old State House
The Old State House stands as one of Boston’s most historic landmarks. Situated along the renowned Freedom Trail, this venerable building dates back to colonial times and has been meticulously preserved as a museum. It serves as a vivid testament to the pivotal historical events that unfolded in Boston, offering visitors a comprehensive journey through the city’s rich past.
Visiting Information:
Hours: Open from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays.
Recommended Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Address: 206 Washington St, Boston.
Admission Fees: Adults: USD 12, Seniors and Students: USD 1
10. The Paul Revere House
The Paul Revere House, constructed in 1680, has stood as a historical landmark since it was designated as such in 1961. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing valuable artifacts from the American Revolution era. The museum also commemorates Paul Revere, an American patriot and revolutionary figure.
Visiting Information:
Open Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM (Wednesday to Sunday)
Closed: Monday and Tuesday
Recommended Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Address: 19 North Square, Boston
Entry Fee: USD 1-5
11. Old South Meeting House
Explore the Old South Meeting House, a historic Congregational church built in 1791. Today, it houses a library brimming with archives on Boston and colonial history, the American Revolution, and Massachusetts Revolutionary War military records. You’ll find manuscripts, financial records, maps, plans, and newspapers.
Plan Your Visit:
Location: 310 Washington St, Boston
Hours: Open 10 AM – 4 PM (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
Recommended Time: 1-2 Hours
Entry Fee: USD 5-6
12. Boston Fire Museum
Experience the Boston Fire Museum, also known as the Congress Street Fire Station, a historic Romanesque-style firehouse dating back to 1891. The museum stands out with its architecture featuring light bricks and distinctive rusticated ground details, offering a stark contrast to Boston’s typical buildings and museums.
Visiting Information:
Location: 344 Congress St, Boston
Open Hours: Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 4 PM
Recommended Visit Duration: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Entry Fee: Free
13. Metropolitan Waterworks Museum
The Metropolitan Waterworks Museum, situated within an old water pumping station on Chestnut Hill in Boston, features a collection of well-maintained mechanical engineering equipment. These machines were once used to pump 1000 gallons of water daily. The museum stands out not only for its intricate architectural design but also for its commitment to preservation.
Operating Hours: 11 AM to 4 PM (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
Recommended Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Address: 2450 Beacon St, Chestnut Hill
Admission: Free
14. The Sports Museum
The Sports Museum in Boston offers a distinctive exploration of the city’s sports heritage, spanning a variety of disciplines including boxing, football, college athletics, and the histories of local sports teams. As a non-profit organization, the museum is dedicated to fostering comprehensive child development and advocating for social change.
Operating Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM
Recommended Visit Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Address: 100 Legends Way, Boston
Admission: Free
15. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated to commemorating America’s 35th president and individuals who strive to better the world through the art of politics. The museum showcases President Kennedy’s life through archives, exhibits, and films.
Operating Status: The Museum is open 7 days a week. Regular admission will end at 3:30 p.m.
For more detailed information visit their official website or click here.
Recommended Visit Duration: Approximately 1 Hour
Address: Columbia Point, Boston
Admission Fee: USD 10-14
16. Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is dedicated to educating the public about the Senate’s role in the U.S. government. Visitors can experience a replica of Senator Kennedy’s Washington, D.C. office and explore digital exhibits.
Operating Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Recommended Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
Address: 210 Morrissey Blvd, Boston
Entry Fee: USD 18
17. Vilna Shul
Vilna Shul, originally constructed in 1919 by Jewish immigrants from Lithuania, stands today as Boston’s Center for Jewish Culture and a museum celebrating Jewish heritage. Located in the heart of Beacon Hill, it offers a glimpse into the rich history of this neighborhood, formerly part of the West End, and the Eastern European Jewish community in Boston. The synagogue’s restoration includes preserved murals and informative exhibits that reveal layers of history to visitors.
Address: 18 Phillips St, Boston, MA 02114, United States
Planning a Group Trip to Boston’s Best Museums?
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Experience seamless travel with our reliable services and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Boston’s museums. Choose Boston Bus Services for your next museum adventure in the vibrant city of Boston.
What are some must-visit museums in Boston?
Some of the top museums in Boston include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.
What is unique about the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum?
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is renowned for its eclectic collection displayed in a recreated Venetian-style palace, with artworks ranging from ancient to modern.
Are there any family-friendly museums in Boston?
Yes, the Museum of Science and the Boston Children’s Museum are ideal for families, featuring interactive exhibits and activities for children of all ages.
Which museum in Boston has the best exhibits on science and technology?
The Museum of Science Boston is renowned for its comprehensive exhibits on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), making it perfect for enthusiasts of these fields.
Are there any free museums in Boston?
Yes, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) Boston offers free admission on Thursdays from 5-9 pm, providing access to its contemporary art exhibitions and waterfront views.
What is the best time to visit museums in Boston to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than weekends. Additionally, visiting during non-peak hours or off-peak seasons can help avoid crowds at popular museums.
Are there any virtual tours available for Boston museums?
Some museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) Boston and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, offer virtual tours online, allowing visitors to explore their collections from anywhere.
What museums in Boston offer free admission or discounted days?
Some museums in Boston offer free admission on certain days or times, such as the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) Boston on Thursdays from 5-9 pm. The Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) Boston and the Harvard Art Museums offer free admission to Massachusetts residents on select days.
Which Boston museum offers the best views of the city?
The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) Boston, located on the waterfront, offers stunning views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline in addition to contemporary art exhibitions.
Which museums in Boston are wheelchair accessible?
Most major museums in Boston, including the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) Boston, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and the Museum of Science, are wheelchair accessible and provide accommodations for visitors with disabilities.