When you think of cruises, you may imagine sunbathing on a deck and watching the sea life beneath you. While many people go on cruises for beauty and relaxation, others look forward to traveling.
If you planned a cruise that will stop at Boston Cruise Port, you are in for a treat. The city is huge, and many attractions are only a bus ride away. When you step off the ship, be prepared to make the most of your short time. Continue reading to find the best spots to visit while there.
Port Overview
Flynn Cruiseport is part of South Boston’s Seaport District. Just minutes from Boston Logan International Airport, Boston Cruise Port witnesses the exchange between hundreds of thousands of passengers each year.
Sightseeing & Activities
It could take weeks to visit every attraction, but you may not have much time. Here are some attractions and activities that should be at the top of your to-do list as soon as you leave the cruise terminal.
The Institute of Contemporary Art
This art museum has seen many homes, but it settled down in the South Boston Seaport District. The new, convenient location allows passengers on cruise ships to admire various artistic approaches from emerging artists. There are also areas for artists from the Boston area and group exhibitions.
Duck Tours
A Duck Tour is the perfect opportunity to visit the best parts of the city by traveling on land and by sea. Visit popular areas such as Quincy Market, the Boston Public Library, Trinity Church, Granary Burying Ground, and the Holocaust Memorial. You will also enjoy some relaxing time on the Charles River.
New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is a must-see for adults and children alike. With breathtaking exhibits of penguins and sea lions performing tricks for audiences, you will never be bored here. There is even a massive theatre that shows nature films, often in 3D.
Boston Children’s Museum
If you travel with children, let them release their creative and curious side at the Boston Children’s Museum. They can participate in hands-on activities focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. PlaySpace is a unique area for children ages three and younger. It promotes cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.
Shopping & Food
Cruise lines work hard to provide quality food, but it can get boring after a while. Once you get off the ship, taste some local food.
People in Massachusetts take pride in their local restaurants and shopping plazas. There are many great options near Flynn Cruiseport, and you will have to try a few of the ones below.
Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall is full of unique shops, delicious food, and history. Many tourists are drawn to this market because of the meetings and protests that occurred here during the Revolutionary War. You can also enjoy the best food Massachusetts has to offer at Quincy Market, including Boston Baked Beans, Indian Pudding, and clam chowder. Plus, 40 local artisans set up shop all around Fanueil Hall.
CambridgeSide Mall
If you love shopping, you may never leave CambridgeSide Mall. This contemporary building holds two levels of shops and restaurants. There are shops and boutiques for everyone, including favorites like T.J. Maxx, Foot Locker, Sunglass Hut, Sephora, GameStop, and Newbury Comics.
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House
Just a short distance from the cruise port, you will find Del Frisco’s, one of the highest-rated restaurants in the city. It is a true American steakhouse with chef-driven cuisine. Plus, this restaurant has much more to offer than steak. You can try seafood such as lobster tails or delicacies like lamb racks.
Strega Italiano Seaport
Strega is the best spot for oceanfront views when you take a cruise to this city. Whether you prefer Italian classics like Chicken Piccata or seafood wonders like Scallops Risotto, you will find something to love here. There is even a Filet Mignon for the person in your group who shies away from Italian.
Nearby Historical Sights To Check Out
Boston is home to many milestones in United States history. You cannot leave Boston Cruise Port before checking out these historical sights in American history.
The Freedom Trail
Join the Freedom Trail at Old North Church. In 1775, two men signaled Paul Revere from the steeple of the Old North Church. Their lanterns alerted him the British were traveling across the Charles River toward Lexington and Concord. From that moment, the American Revolution was inevitable.
Paul Revere House
After Paul Revere saw the signal from the Old North Church, he grabbed boots and an overcoat from his house. He then traveled to warn many patriots that the British army was on its way. At this house, you can experience the moments leading up to the Revolution.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum may be the most spectacular museum you will see. Between live plays, interactive exhibits, and full-scale replicas of sailing vessels from the time of the Boston Tea Party, it is impossible to be bored here. You can even throw tea into the Boston Harbor as Revolutionaries did centuries ago.
Other Things To Do
Set aside some time for these extra activities.
Visit Laugh Boston
Once you have had your fill of history and sightseeing, sit down and enjoy some laughs at Laugh Boston. This massive theatre is part of the Westin Waterfront Hotel. Hundreds of people gather to watch local comedians and nationally touring headliners.
See a Game at Fenway Park
Very few states are as passionate about sports as Massachusetts. The sprawling stadium fills with die-hard fans, foam fingers, and face paint. Whether you love baseball or want to emerge yourself in Boston culture, watching the Red Sox should be on your list.
Take a Walk Around Castle Island
After spending so long on a ship, you will need to stretch your legs. At Castle Island, you can spend time sunbathing, swimming, fishing, or walking. There is a playground for children and a scenic overlook. You can also tour Fort Independence, which the United States military used during World War I and II.
Currency
Boston currency is US Dollars.
If you need to exchange currency, take a short bus ride to Copley Place, the Boston branch of Currency Exchange International.
How To Get to Boston From the Boston Cruise Port
Many services are available for travel throughout the city once you arrive at the Boston Cruise Port. The Old Town Trolley Tour stops outside the cruise terminal to pick up passengers as they depart the ship. From there, you can enjoy a tour that will also bring you to over 100 of the top attractions downtown.
If you prefer to rent a car, you can use Enterprise, near Cruise Port Boston. However, keep in mind that parking in this city is expensive and challenging.
You can also take a taxi from Metro Cab or ride the Silver Line Rapid Transit bus. If you want to take a shuttle, try Go Boston Car Service.
Cruise Lines That Sail Here
Several cruise lines can bring you to the Flynn cruise terminal, including:
- American Queen Voyages
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Celebrity Cruises
- Cunard Line
- Oceania Cruises
- P&O Cruises
- Ponant
- Princess Cruises
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Royal Caribbean International
- Seabourn Cruise Line
- Silversea Cruises
Final Thoughts
Do you have a long list of places to visit on your trip? The beauty of this city is that there is something for everyone. Children can explore Boston Children’s Museum and Fenway Park, adults love the fine dining and Laugh Boston, and history enthusiasts can surround themselves with the rich stories of Boston.
Make the most of your short time in this city by planning ahead. Once you find transportation and pick the most important attractions, you will have the chance to fully experience the history and beauty of Boston before moving on to your next adventure.
