10 Things to Do in Boston in April

In the month of April, the city of Boston dresses up in springtime and offers a wide variety of activities and scenery for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

Carmen Navarro

Carmen Navarro

9 min read

10 Things to Do in Boston in April

Boston | ©armağan başaran

Boston is both the oldest and one of the most modern cities in the United States. It is the cradle of great historical moments, among which the beginning of the Revolution and the Liberation War stand out.

If you visit Boston in April, you will find a great number of activities. During this month, spring arrives with an explosion of color and the gift of an ideal climate to, for example, discover its typical dishes or watch marine animals. At this time of the year, the city acquires a special charm and it is convenient to take note of the things to see and do in Boston to make the most of your trip.

1. The oldest marathon in the world

Boston Marathon| ©John Beagle
Boston Marathon| ©John Beagle

Regardless of whether you are going to participate or not, the Boston Marathon is an event not to be missed. The streets are filled with great enthusiasm and the energy is contagious. So much so, that you will surely want to encourage the competitors to keep going with energy and reach the finish line.

This event has been happening year after year since 1897, with just 15 runners, until today, when 30,000 participants sign up.

It is usually planned for Patriot's Day as a way to honor the struggle for the liberation of the United States. The course is over 40 km, which allows a wide choice of selection to enjoy the race.

It is an event of great importance for the city, so if you find yourself there during the month of April, you can take the opportunity to attend, even if only as an audience, the oldest marathon in the world.

The route starts in Hopkinton and extends for 42, 195 km to Copley Square.
To register you have to do some formalities with some time, in addition to paying a fee for participation.

Where to sign up and how much does it cost?

The price to participate in the Boston Marathon varies every year, there is a fee for residents and another for tourists, so it is advisable to be attentive to the official website, if you want to take part.

In addition, it is necessary to comply with a series of requirements and tests to qualify as a participant.

2. The traditional search for new easter eggs

Easter Eggs| ©Marni
Easter Eggs| ©Marni

One thing that could not be missed in April is the celebration of spring, and this comes with the traditional Easter egg hunt throughout the city.

Traditionally, several locations are chosen for this game that can be enjoyed as a family and is one of the best things to do with kids in Boston in April.

Eggs are hidden in businesses, markets and parks and participants are given a series of clues and a basket to store their loot. The event is free, but requires registration, which you'll need to do through the Eventbrite page, where information is posted as the date approaches.

Many times there are decorations and a huge Easter Bunny to take pictures and keep a special souvenir.

Book a historical tour of Boston

3. The Japanese Outdoor Festival

Boston Common Park.| ©Doug Kerr
Boston Common Park.| ©Doug Kerr

Every year, when spring arrives, Japan is filled with the color of the cherry blossoms. Meanwhile, in Boston, the month of April brings other very different colors, but they inspire the resident Asian community to celebrate Matsuri, which is an outdoor cultural festival that takes place in Boston Common Park.

Admission is free and it is usually held near the end of April, on the weekend, although as with most dates of Asian tradition it is a moveable date.

During these weekend days it is possible to enjoy a magical cultural exchange, learning a little more about the customs, cuisine and crafts of Japan. The celebration offers dance shows, music and entertainment ideal for sharing with family or friends.

The event is organized entirely by volunteers, who create an ideal environment for healthy recreation. In addition to the gastronomy, you can admire and purchase some traditional Japanese jewelry, among other curious objects that can become the most original souvenirs.

Information of interest

  • Place: Boston Common Park.
  • Price: Free admission, you will only have to pay for what you consume or acquire at the fair.
  • Date: Usually at the end of April, but the date is movable.

4. Boston's annual Charles River Race

Head of the Charles Regatta| ©KrisNM
Head of the Charles Regatta| ©KrisNM

Every year in April, about 1,500 canoes and kayaks gather for one of the most traditional races on the Charles River. Spectators gather along the banks to watch an event that is one of the largest of its kind.

The race begins at various locations, according to the different categories, and ends at the Artesani Playground in Brighton, where a festival with live music, food, raffles and various curio vendors awaits.

If you want a good place to see the boats and kayaks, it is precisely near this point.

Thanks to the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA), and thousands of volunteers, this tradition has been one of those responsible for the recovery of the Charles River, making it one of the most beautiful recreational sites in the city.

5. Whale watching

Whales in Boston| ©Deleep George
Whales in Boston| ©Deleep George

Although whale watching in Boston is an activity that can be possible throughout the year, the month of April is one of the most recommended for a truly unforgettable experience. It is perfect to enjoy with family or friends, especially for those who love marine life.

The reason why this activity is propitious for this time of the year is that in the city there is a marine sanctuary where whales and their calves come to feed, taking advantage of the spring weather.

The activity is preferably done aboard a catamaran, some with two decks, where you can also enjoy the sea air, the warm weather and the spring sun. If you find a good spot, you will be able to take some great pictures.

6. Lobster season

Eating Lobster Roll| ©Chun Her
Eating Lobster Roll| ©Chun Her

Seafood dishes are part of the typical gastronomy of Boston, and it is not difficult to find a good restaurant where you can taste a delicious lobster, prepared with local recipes.

In April the waters warm up thanks to the spring weather that says goodbye to winter and the crustaceans come closer to the coast.

Visitors to the city often sign up for one of the gastronomic tours to live a complete experience and try as many fresh lobsters as possible.

With these activities, it doesn't matter if some of the family members prefer something other than seafood, as menus with typical dishes abound and are all exquisite.

An ideal recommendation to enjoy this activity is to plan it for the evening, closing the day after some sightseeing tours in Boston during the day.

Book a food tour of Boston

7. Visit the Boston Public Garden

Boston Public Garden in Fall| ©Bill Ilott
Boston Public Garden in Fall| ©Bill Ilott

Springtime brings color to the city of Boston, which looks like it's dressed to the nines. From the emerald green of the leaves to the flowers decorate every corner, making the buildings and streets with their modern and antique airs look even more beautiful.

It's the perfect time to "enjoy the scenery" and fall in love. In the Boston Public Garden, the colors of the flowers are so bright and vivid that you'll feel like you're trapped inside a painting, in fact, this spot is considered one of the best for spring photography.

As you stroll through, stop at the memorials and discover a little more about the history of the city and the United States.

Plan a nice picnic and you and the kids will have a fantastic time outdoors. The Boston Public Garden is definitely a must-see in April.

Practical Information

  • Hours: The park is open year-round, every day, between 6:00 am and 11:00 pm.
  • Location: 4 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02116, right next to Boston Common Park.
  • Price: Free admission, although it's a good idea to bring some money for the boat rides.

8. Boston Design Week

Creating a Design| ©Anete Lusina
Creating a Design| ©Anete Lusina

One of the events that takes place every year in the spring season is Boston Design Week. A display of creativity that is not to be missed and allows designers to demonstrate their skills and leave their name high.

In the meantime, you can enjoy a different and inspiring activity. Design shows include architecture, historic preservation, interior design, graphic and fashion design, among many others. How to visit a design fair!

Most of the programs and exhibits are free, although in some cases you will need to RSVP, as many people travel to Boston in April to enjoy this event.

The date is moveable, so if you are interested in attending, it is good to confirm your location on the calendar so you don't miss it for anything. In addition, each year the exhibitors are different, with interesting projects full of a great futuristic and creative vision.

9. Visit the friendly seals at the New England Aquarium

Aquarium Seal| ©angela n.
Aquarium Seal| ©angela n.

The seals are part of the marine fauna that you can observe at the Boston Aquarium. The exhibition that has these friendly protagonists as hosts takes place near the entrance, being one of the most exciting moments when they escape and approach the public to greet and play.

In April, the spring weather takes away some of the winter cold and gives the waters the warmth that these marine mammals enjoy, making it the best time of the year to enjoy this show offered by the New England Aquarium in Boston.

Tickets are priced according to the seasons, but if you want to enjoy this fun experience for a little less, don't hesitate to purchase the Boston City Pass or the Go Boston Card.

In any of these Boston tourist passes you will find interesting discounts for visits to the aquarium as well as for other activities and tours to do in the city.

Buy your ticket for the Boston Aquarium

10 Enjoy a cruise in spring weather

Charles River Cruise| ©Brooks Payne
Charles River Cruise| ©Brooks Payne

Boston cruises are one of the most recommended activities in the city, no matter the time of year.

However, every season has its charm and the month of April is no exception, with its spring-like weather, which warms and chases away the remaining cold of winter, without reaching the heat of summer.

You can choose the hours of the night and enjoy a quiet dinner in the moonlight, rocked by the gentle waves, ideal if you are traveling as a couple or with your family. From these boats it is possible to enjoy a different view of the city, especially of its coasts and docks.

You can also book a boat tour during the day, to bathe in the spring sunshine, indulge in the sea breeze and spot some marine animals. In fact, April is one of the best times of the year to enjoy these sea tours.

I advise you to get the Boston City Pass to get incredible discounts so you won't miss out on this activity...

Book your Boston cruise

Other activities to enjoy in the city of Boston in April

Faneuil Hall at night| ©Philip Kearney
Faneuil Hall at night| ©Philip Kearney

In addition to those already mentioned, here are some additional recommendations to complete your list of activities to enjoy in Boston if you decide to visit this city in April.

A Boston Celtics game

For basketball lovers, visiting Boston in April is an opportunity to enjoy a live game, where one of the best teams in NBA history will give its best on the court.

The adrenaline and excitement are contagious and even the least fanatic fans end up cheering, immersed in the passion of the game.

Buy your ticket to a Boston Celtics game

Visit Faneuil Hall Market

This attractive market operates year-round. However, it is during the month of April and the spring in general when the greatest number of street performers, activities and events come together to make Faneuil Hall a must-see stop on your visit to the city of Boston.

In addition, the Easter Egg Hunt is usually held in this space, as well as other family plans that children will love, such as puppet shows, free art classes and storytelling.

Many companies take advantage of this market to offer free samples of their products and advertise. All this with a wonderful weather and surrounded by the colors that dress the city in this season.