10 Things to Do in Boston in April

The city of Boston is both the oldest and one of the most modern cities in the United States. It is the birthplace of many important historical moments, including the start of the revolution and the War of Independence.

If you visit Boston in April, you will find a wide range of activities to enjoy. During this month, spring arrives with an explosion of colour and ideal weather for discovering typical dishes or spotting marine animals, for example. At this time of year, the city takes on a special charm, and it is a good idea to take note of the things to see and do in Boston to make the most of your trip.

Whether you are participating or not, the Boston Marathon is an event not to be missed. The streets are filled with excitement and the energy is contagious. So much so that you will surely want to cheer on the competitors to keep going and reach the finish line.

This event has been held every year since 1897, starting with just 15 runners, and today attracting 30,000 participants.

It is usually planned for Patriots' Day as a way of honouring the struggle for the liberation of the United States. The route is over 40 km long, which allows for a wide range of options to enjoy the race.

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

The route starts in Hopkinton and stretches 42.195 km to Copley Square.
To register, you must complete some paperwork in advance, as well as pay a participation fee.

Where to register and how much does it cost?

The price to participate in the Boston Marathon varies each year, with one fee for residents and another for tourists, so it is advisable to keep an eye on the official website if you want to take part.

In addition, you must meet a series of requirements and tests to qualify as a participant.

Something that cannot be overlooked in April is spring, which arrives with the traditional Easter egg hunt throughout the city.

Traditionally, various locations are chosen for this game, which can be enjoyed with the family and is one of the best things to do with children in Boston in April.

** The eggs are hidden** in shops, markets and parks, and participants are given a series of clues and a basket to store their loot. The event is free, but you must register on the Eventbrite website, where the information is published as the date approaches.

There are often decorations and a huge Easter bunny for taking photos and creating special memories.

Every year, when spring arrives, Japan is filled with the colour of cherry blossoms. Meanwhile, in Boston, the month of April brings other very different colours, but ones that inspire the Asian community to celebrate Matsuri, 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 Asian traditions, the date is flexible.

During these weekend days, you can enjoy a magical cultural exchange, learning a little more about the customs, cuisine and crafts of Japan. The celebration offers dance and music performances and entertainment that are ideal for sharing with family or friends.

The event is organised entirely by volunteers, who create an ideal atmosphere for wholesome recreation. In addition to the cuisine, you can admire and purchase traditional Japanese jewellery, among other curious objects that can become the most original souvenirs.

Useful information

• Location: Boston Common Park.
• Price: Free admission; you only pay for what you consume or purchase at the fair.
• Date: usually at the end of April, but the date is subject to change.

Every year in April, around 1,500 canoes and kayaks gather to celebrate one of the traditional races held on the Charles River. Excitement takes hold of the spectators who gather along the banks to watch one of the largest events of its kind.

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

If you want a good spot to watch the boats and kayaks, this is the place to be.

Thanks to the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) and thousands of volunteers, this tradition has been one of the driving forces behind the recovery of the Charles River, turning it into one of the city's most beautiful recreational areas.

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

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

The activity is best done on board a catamaran, some with two decks, where you can also enjoy the sea air, warm weather and spring sunshine. If you find a good spot, you'll be able to take some great photos.

Seafood dishes are part of Boston's typical cuisine, and it is not difficult to find a good restaurant where you can enjoy delicious lobster, prepared according to local recipes.

In April, the waters warm up thanks to the spring weather that bids farewell to winter, and the crustaceans come closer to the coast.

Visitors to the city often sign up for one of the food tours to enjoy a complete experience and try all the different ways of preparing fresh lobster.

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

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

Spring lights up the city of Boston with colours, which seems to be dressed up for a gala. From the emerald green of the leaves to the flowers decorating every corner, making the buildings and streets with their modern and ancient airs look even more beautiful.

It is the perfect time to "enjoy the scenery" and fall in love. In the Boston Public Garden, the colours of the flowers are so bright and vivid that you will feel like you are trapped inside a painting. In fact, this spot is considered one of the best places to take spring photographs.

As you walk around, 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'll see that, together with the children, you'll have a fantastic time outdoors. The Boston Public Garden is definitely a must-see in April.

Practical information

• Opening hours: The park is open every day of the year from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
• Location: 4 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02116. Right next to Boston Common Park.
• Price: Admission is free, but it's a good idea to bring some money to go on the boat rides.

One of the events held every year in the spring is Boston Design Week. A display of creativity that is eagerly awaited and allows designers to showcase their skills and make a name for themselves.

Meanwhile, you can enjoy a different and inspiring activity. The design exhibitions include architecture, historical preservation, interior design, graphic design and fashion, among many others. How to visit a design fair!

Most programmes and exhibitions are free, although in some cases you will need to book and confirmyour attendance, as many people travel to Boston in April to enjoy this event.

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

Seals are part of the marine fauna that you can observe at the Boston Aquarium. The exhibition featuring these friendly stars is located near the entrance, and one of the most exciting moments is when they escape and approach the public to greet them 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 year to enjoy this show offered by the New England Aquarium in Boston.

Ticket prices vary according to the season, but if you want to enjoy this fun experience for less, don't hesitate to purchase the Boston City Pass or the Go Boston Card.

With either of these Boston tourist passes, you'll find interesting discounts for visits to the aquarium as well as other activities and tours in the city.

Cruises around Boston are one of the most recommended activities in the city, regardless of the time of year.

However, each season has its charm, and April is no exception, with its spring weather that warms up and drives away the remaining cold of winter, without reaching the heat of summer.

You can choose the time of night and enjoy a quiet dinner in the moonlight, rocked by the gentle waves, which is ideal if you are travelling as a couple or with your family. From these boats, you can enjoy a different view of the city, especially its coastline and docks.

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

I recommend getting the Boston City Pass so you can get incredible discounts and not miss out on this activity.

In addition to the above, 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 their all on the court.

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

Visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace

This attractive market is open all year round. However, it is during April and spring in general that the largest number of street artists, activities and events come together, making Faneuil Hall a must-see stop on your visit to the city of Boston.

This space also hosts the Easter Egg Hunt, as well as other family activities 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 themselves. All this in wonderful weather and surrounded by the colours that adorn the city at this time of year.