Being a major industrial, historical, and cultural hub of the Northeast, Boston has a wealth of museums in every category. With over 60 museums in Boston and near the city, both world-class and smaller local museums are options for visitors and locals, providing a fantastic experience for museum-goers.
Different programs, such as Go Boston, Card to Culture, and CityPASS, include admission or discounts on admission to help you save money. Many Boston museums also offer a variety of discounts. Below are 20 of the best museums in Boston, but since the city is so large, note the locations in relation to you and each other, particularly when planning multiple in a day. All hours and admissions are current as of January 2023, but confirm details on their website before going.
Museums in Boston
Museum Passes
- The Boston CityPass offers admission to New England Aquarium, Museum of Science and Harvard Museum of Natural History, plus other benefits.
- The Boston Explorer Pass by Go City – Save money by choosing 2 to 5 attractions from a list of 20. Museums include the New England Aquarium, Museum of Science, Boston Children’s Museum, Salem Witch Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, USS Constitution Museum, Harvard Museum of Natural History.
- Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley – This will get you to 14 stops, including some museums.