Free Ferry Weekend: Day Trips, Hidden Gems, & Free Things To Do šā“ļø (May 15-18, 2025)
Bostonās in full adventure mode this weekāthink free ferry rides to Spectacle Island, secret museums tucked into Beacon Hill, and block parties that turn sidewalks into dance floors. Hereās your guide to soaking up the city without spending a dollar. (May 15th to May 18th, 2025)
What's Poppin': Boston's Free Ferry Weekend To Spectacle Island āļøšļø
š What's New In Boston This Week
Free ferry rides? Say less. Boston Harbor Islands are officially open for the season, and to celebrate, you can catch a FREE ferry to Spectacle Island this weekend (yes, really). A round trip to Spectacle Island typically costs $39 per person. Think: scenic trails, beach hangs, seafood shacks, and a salty breeze that makes the most of this weekend's warm weather. Ferries leave from Long Wharf North, and itās first come, first served. Set that alarm and grab your iced coffee on the way. This event will sell out early.
šļø Discover Spectacle Island
Look forward to five miles of scenic trails and panoramic city skyline views. Once a landfill, the island has been transformed into a vibrant public park, featuring a visitor center, lifeguarded swimming areas, and picnic spots perfect for a sunny day out. Whether you're looking to hike, swim, or simply relax by the water, Spectacle Island provides a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities right in Boston Harbor.
š¦ļø Boston Weekend Weather Check
Here's your ferry day trip weekend forecast:
- Saturday, May 17: Sunny and breezy with a high near 70Ā°Fāperfect ferry weather
- Sunday, May 18: Mostly sunny, high of 68Ā°F, with a light sea breeze (you might even catch a tan)
š Pack sunscreen, a tote, and your best beach outfit.
šø Free Ferry Weekend Schedule
- Schedule: Saturday & Sunday, May 17th to 18th
- Time: 8:00 AM Onwards | First Come, First Served
- Where: Long Wharf North | Ferry To Spectacle Island
- Admission: Free (Limit Of 5 Tickets Per Adult)
Hidden Gem In Boston: Nichols House Museum In Beacon Hill š šÆļøš
šÆļø What Is Nichols House Museum?
Located on the iconic Mount Vernon Street in Beacon Hill, the Nichols House Museum is a beautifully preserved 1804 Federal-style townhouse designed by architect Charles Bulfinchāaka the same guy who designed the Massachusetts State House. Once home to Rose Standish Nichols, a designer, writer, and activist, the house tells the story of Bostonās upper-class life in the early 20th century. After inheriting the home in 1930, Rose began transforming it into the museum we can visit today.
š What Makes Nichols House Museum A Hidden Gem?
Beyond its historic faƧade, this museum offers a personal peek into the life of Rose Standish Nicholsāa designer, writer, and social activist who shaped Bostonās cultural and intellectual scene. Her home is filled with handcrafted furniture, global art, and personal treasures that reflect both her taste and her activism. The guided tours are intimate and rich with personal stories, covering not just the Nichols family but also the lives of working-class Bostonians who kept homes like this running. Itās small, quiet, and tucked along one of Beacon Hillās prettiest streets, making it feel like your own secret find.
š Nichols House Museum Is Worth A Visit
- Where: 55 Mount Vernon Street, Beacon Hill, Boston
- Open: Every Wednesday to Saturday: Tours at 10 AM, 11 AM, and 12 PM | Sunday: Tours at 11 AM, 12 PM, and 1 PM
- Admission: $16 for adults; $8 for students
- Details: Nichols House Museum
This Weekend: Free and Cool Things To Do in Boston š š
š Beach Reads Book Fair
Kick off your weekend with a literary happy hour! Join Trident Booksellers at the Sam Adams Downtown Boston Taproom for a curated selection of beach reads, author meet-and-greets, and bookish vibes.
- When: Thursday, May 15th, 5:30 PM ā 8:30 PM
- Where: Sam Adams Boston Taproom, 60 State Street, Boston
- Admission: Free
- Details: Beach Reads Book Fair
š¼ Greenway Spring Fest
Celebrate spring at the Rose Kennedy Greenway with over 15 food trucks, free fitness classes, live DJ sets, artisan vendors, face painting, and more. Perfect for a sunny Saturday outing.
- When: Saturday, May 17th, 11:00 AM ā 5:00 PMā
- Where: Rowes Wharf Plaza, Atlantic Ave and High St, Boston
- Admission: Freeā
- Details: Spring Fest
š¶ Harvard Square Block Party & Vintage Market
Experience a vibrant open-air celebration with live music, art, food, 100+ thrift vendors, and community vibes. Church Street transforms into a dynamic block party you won't want to miss.
- When: Saturday, May 17th, 12:00 PM ā 7:00 PMā
- Where: 33 Church Street, Cambridge
- Admission: Freeā
- Details: The People's Party
šŖ Franklin Park Kite & Bike Festival
Join a 50-year tradition of kite flying, bike riding, and picnicking in Franklin Park. Enjoy food trucks, arts and crafts, and activities.
- When: Saturday, May 17th, 12:00 PM ā 5:00 PMā
- Where: Franklin Park Playstead, 25 Pierpont Road, Boston
- Admission: Free
- Details: Kite & Beach Festival
šļø Seaport x Black Owned Bos. Market
Support Black-owned businesses at this vibrant outdoor market featuring 60+ vendors, live music, and delicious food options. A perfect Sunday activity to shop and chill.
- When: Sunday, May 18th, 12:00 PMā ā 6:00PM
- Where: 111 Harbor Way, Boston
- Admission: Freeā
- Details: Black Owned Bos. Market
