Visiting or living in Boston can be an expensive undertaking, but a variety of deals, discounts, sightseeing passes, and coupons can save significant money on almost every part of a vacation or daily life. Savings are available for hotels, tours, attractions, harbor and river cruises, museums, sightseeing, and day trips. Visitors can typically save around 10% to 50% by using enough deals, coupons, and discounts. For Boston and Boston-area residents, the savings can be even more substantial. Depending on the venue, residents may save up to 100%—in other words, receive free tickets—for as many as four tickets to museums, parks, and zoos.
The high prices in Boston are a noted concern, with reports of $27 fried chicken highlighting the cost of living and dining. However, it is possible to visit or live in Boston on a budget without resorting to extreme measures. The key is to find a balance between spending wisely and saving enough to create the life one wants to enjoy. There are many ways to save money, from using public transportation to finding free activities and affordable food options.
Discount Passes and Tickets
One of the most effective ways to save money on Boston attractions is through the use of discount passes. The Boston GoCity pass is a recommended option for visitors looking to save money and time. These sightseeing passes can save as much as 55% on the cost of attractions likely on a must-see list. There are two tourist passes worth considering for a trip to Boston. Many companies also offer bundles that combine boat and bus tours with popular Boston attractions.
For residents, heavily discounted or free tickets to top attractions are available. Venues offer savings up to 100% for local residents, often allowing them to get free tickets for multiple people.
Free Museums and Attractions
Boston offers an abundance of free museums and attractions, allowing visitors to keep themselves busy for a week or more without spending a penny. While specific museum names were not detailed in the source material, the availability of these free options is a significant budget-saving resource.
Beyond museums, there are numerous free activities available throughout the city. For those on a strict budget, free things to do at night in Boston include stargazing at the Coit Observatory, laughing at an open mic comedy show, and watching a movie at the Hatch Shell. Additionally, taking a walk around the city, using the T (subway), visiting the Commons, or finding a cool food truck are all ways to enjoy the city without spending much money.
Getting Around Boston
The best way to get around Boston and save money on transportation is using the MBTA, also commonly known as the "T". It operates an extensive network of buses, subways, trolleys, and commuter trains that serve the Greater Boston area. The subway system consists of four lines: Red, Orange, Blue, and Green, connecting various neighborhoods and key attractions. Buses cover additional areas and are a reliable means of transport. Commuter rail services are available for travel to suburbs and nearby cities. Ferry routes connect the city to nearby islands and waterfront neighborhoods, providing a scenic and budget-friendly alternative. Together, these options cover almost every attraction in and around Boston and offer a cheap way to commute to them.
Food and Drink Deals
Finding affordable food and drink is a major part of saving money in Boston. The Boston Public Market houses over 30 New England-based artists, offering a variety of fresh food and drink options, including mead. This market makes eating sustainably and locally accessible. For those looking for deals, local restaurants often have great offers of between 20% and 30% off. Checking Groupon is also recommended for offers on meals, as well as tours, tickets to shows, and top attractions.
When it comes to drinking, many Boston pub crawls offer drink specials at the bars and clubs they visit, allowing visitors to save money while discovering some of the best spots for a drink in the city. For specific affordable places to grab a drink, information is available through community resources such as Facebook groups.
Finding Deals Online and Other Tips
Before arriving in Boston, it is helpful to search for deals online. Comprehensive lists of free things to do in Boston are available, including even Boston ghost tours. It is also useful to have a breakdown of where money will go on a trip to Boston to better manage the budget.
For visitors with luggage, storage options are available in Boston to manage bags before checking into or after checking out of a hotel. Additionally, for those interested in a specific famous bar, information is available regarding the Cheers Bar in Boston.
Conclusion
Boston does not have to be prohibitively expensive. By utilizing discount passes like the GoCity pass, taking advantage of free museums and attractions, using the MBTA for transportation, and seeking out food and drink deals at places like the Boston Public Market or through pub crawls and Groupon, both visitors and residents can significantly reduce their expenses. For residents, additional savings up to 100% are available at many local venues. With careful planning and the use of available resources, it is possible to enjoy all that Boston has to offer on a budget.