This time of year can bring on the winter doldrums, but you’ll find Boston’s residents are a hearty lot. Where else can you find bike lanes cleared of heavy snow and sailing on the Charles river as soon as the ice is out? These eight activities will have you shaking off winter temperatures, breezing into spring and finding crocus breaking ground in no time.
- Tower Hill Botanic Garden is about an hour drive outside Boston and well worth the effort for flower lovers. Step into the Orangeria and you will be hit with a jolt of hot, humid air filled with the heady scent of orange blossoms. Come during the Camellia Festival in February and you will think you’ve landed on another planet. Winter doldrums be damned.
- Although climbing in Somerville at Brooklyn Boulders is a fun family activity any time of year, winter is an especially good time to put those climbing skills to the test. Challenging for any skill level, you’ll find the guides extremely helpful and encouraging. All equipment necessary can be rented on site.
- Have you ever wanted to learn how to shuck an oyster? The North End Fish Market offers free lessons every Saturday; you only pay for what you shuck and eat.
- The Boston Common, built in 1634, is America’s oldest park and the start of the famous Freedom Trail. A beautiful spot to walk in all seasons and try to imagine the Redcoats making camp there in 1775. During the winter, the Frog Pond has a magical skating rink that will delight both young and old—especially in the early evening when the surrounding trees twinkle with fairy lights.
- Stop into one of L.A. Burdick’s shops and taste a little bit of heaven with a liquid chocolate. This is unlike anything you’ve had around the campfire. Although they are known for their adorable chocolate mice, drinking chocolate, especially the dark variety, is a decadent experience. Just try to keep from licking the bottom of the cup!
- Sports fans in Boston have a legendary reputation. Not saying it’s good or bad, but let’s just agree that they’re loyal! And while the city is about so much more than just sports, taking in a Bruins game is definitely a highlight in winter and a unique Boston experience.
- The Boston Public Market is the indoor first year round market in the country featuring local produce. Visit, sample the best of New England farmers, enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner and forget the cold temperatures hovering outside.
- Visit one of the many museums Boston has to offer. Head to the ICA for contemporary art on the waterfront, The Museum of Fine Arts to view the classics and Americana or The Boston Tea Party Museum (pictured above) and have a taste of the original Tea Party Revolution.
The city of Boston might get its fair share of winter weather, but residents make the most of everything it has to offer. You won’t find any hibernation going on in Beantown.
