Boston Pass: 40+ Things To Do – Includes Franklin Park Zoo

Explore Boston’s Best with the Go City Pass: An Honest Review

Looking to experience Boston without breaking the bank or juggling multiple tickets? The Boston Pass: 40+ Things To Do by Go City promises flexible, one-price access to many of Boston’s top sights. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to maximize their sightseeing while keeping things convenient and straightforward.

What We Love About This Experience
First, the ease of use. Saving the pass on your phone and tapping for direct entry means no fumbling with paper vouchers or waiting in long lines. Second, the diversity of attractions — from science museums and historic landmarks to scenic boat cruises and cultural museums — makes it ideal for varied interests and ages.

A Possible Drawback
However, some reviews highlight a few frustrations, like seasonal closures and technical hiccups with the QR code. If your trip aligns with off-peak seasons or you’re not comfortable troubleshooting tech issues, it’s worth considering.

Who Should Consider This Pass?
Travelers who want a rundown of Boston and enjoy planning on the go will find tremendous value here. It’s especially well-suited for families, history buffs, and those eager to see a lot in a limited time.

Key Points

• Access to over 40 Boston attractions with one mobile ticket
• Flexible options for 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days of sightseeing
• Skip voucher lines with direct entry, saving precious vacation time
• The price ($79) offers good value, especially considering the number of included experiences
• Some attractions may be seasonal or temporarily unavailable
• Travelers should verify attraction hours and reservations in advance
• The pass is great for those who enjoy spontaneous exploration and a variety of experiences

Unpacking the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The Boston Pass offers a wide-ranging list, and while you don’t have to do everything, knowing what’s on offer helps plan your days. Let’s break down some of the highlights.

The Museum of Science: A Science Lover’s Dream

Starting with the Museum of Science is a solid choice. It ranks as one of the biggest science centers in the world, packed with over 700 interactive exhibits. Whether you’re fascinated by electricity, dinosaurs, or the human body, this spot offers something for all ages. We loved the way the exhibits engage with hands-on displays, making science fun and accessible.

A few reviews mention that some attractions might not be open year-round, so check ahead. Still, with a 3-hour visit, you’ll get a full dose of discovery. It’s a great way to start your Boston adventure on an educational note.

City View Trolley Tours: A Scenic Hop-On Hop-Off Experience

The CityView Trolley offers a convenient way to see Boston’s top sights while learning about its history. The fully narrated, hop-on hop-off service allows you to explore at your own pace over two days. Expect open-air views and engaging stories from knowledgeable guides.

Some reviews note that the trolley was not operating during certain months, specifically December through March, so if you’re traveling in winter, this might not be available. When running, it’s a fantastic way to get your bearings and visit places like Boston Common, the North End, and Boston University.

Historic Landmarks: Paul Revere House & the Boston Tea Party

History buffs will appreciate the Paul Revere House, a National Historic Landmark. Standing in the same spot where Paul Revere once lived, you’ll learn about his midnight ride and Boston’s role in the American Revolution. It’s a tangible connection to the past, and the house is one of the city’s oldest structures.

The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum is also a popular inclusion, offering interactive exhibits, reenactments, and historic artifacts. While not included in the current pass details, the experience generally immerses visitors in the rebellious spirit of colonial Boston.

Observation Deck & Scenic Views

For sweeping views of the city, head to the Boston Observation Deck atop the Prudential Tower. From the 52nd floor, you’ll see Boston laid out in all directions — a perfect photo opportunity and a way to orient yourself.

Family-Friendly Fun: Boston Children’s Museum & Swan Boats

The Children’s Museum is a highlight for families, with climbing walls, giant mazes, and art projects. Kids and parents alike find it engaging, with the emphasis on fun through hands-on activities.

The Swan Boats are a charming tradition, offering a serene pedal boat ride across a lagoon. With over a century of history, these boats give visitors a relaxing break from city walking and are a must-do for many.

Art, Culture & Natural History

Art lovers can spend hours at the Museum of Fine Arts, with its expansive collection spanning thousands of years and cultures. Meanwhile, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum offers a unique atmosphere with its Venetian-style courtyard and curated collection of both classic and contemporary art.

Nature and natural history enthusiasts will enjoy the Harvard Museum of Natural History, filled with fossils, minerals, and specimens that span from dinosaurs to meteorites. (Note: Currently unavailable, per COVID-19 updates.)

Exploring Salem & Beyond

For those interested in Salem’s infamous witch trials, the Salem Witch Museum provides an animated overview of 17th-century events. It’s a short trip from Boston, and the museum’s stage sets bring history vividly to life.

The Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly Plimoth Plantation) offers a reconstructed 17th-century settlement where visitors can meet reenactors, view historic trades, and explore farm life of the Pilgrims and the Native Americans.

Unique Experiences & Cruises

A Boston Harbor City Cruise offers a 90-minute tour through historic waters, with tales of ships, lighthouses, and Revolutionary War stories. It’s a relaxing way to see Boston from a different perspective.

The Hy-Line Harbor Cruise provides a one-hour trip to explore Hyannisport, while a visit to the Samuel Adams Brewery offers a taste of Boston’s brewing history — though currently unavailable.

Authentic Traveler Feedback & What It Means

The reviews paint a balanced picture: many enjoy the value and variety the pass offers. One reviewer raves, “Pass worked very well — scanned and accepted at all attractions,” highlighting how smooth the process can be when everything goes right. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides during trolley tours and the stunning city views from the Prudential Deck.

However, some frustrations shine through. Several travelers encountered seasonal closures or technical issues, like QR codes not working. For example, one review mentions difficulty in accessing tickets, which could cause delays or missed stops. This underscores the importance of double-checking opening hours and reservations before heading out.

The price point of $79 for a multi-day pass offers considerable value, especially compared to buying individual tickets. For visitors planning to see multiple sights, the savings and convenience can be well worth it. But the key is to plan wisely—pick your must-see attractions and check their availability beforehand.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Boston Pass

• Activate your pass early to maximize your days of access. Remember, it’s valid for consecutive days once activated.
• Use the Go City app or digital guide to plan your itinerary and make reservations for attractions that require them.
• Verify if attractions are seasonally closed or temporarily unavailable during your visit; this can save you disappointment.
• Consider prioritizing high-value experiences like the Museum of Science, Museum of Fine Arts, and harbor cruises, since these often have the most to offer.
• For attractions like the Harvard Tour or Salem Witch Museum, booking in advance can help avoid missing out.
• Keep in mind that transportation options like certain hop-on-hop-off buses may not operate year-round, so plan accordingly.
• Read reviews and check attraction websites to confirm hours and availability at your planning stage.

Who Will Love This Pass?

If you are someone who enjoys covering a lot of ground in a limited time, this pass is a smart choice. It offers easy access to iconic sights and lesser-known gems alike, making it ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and first-time visitors. Those who like flexible pacing will appreciate the ability to pick and choose what to see each day.

Travelers who value convenience and cost savings will find that the pass simplifies logistics and often reduces entrance fees significantly. But be prepared for some attractions possibly being seasonally closed or experiencing technical glitches, which could affect your plans.

If you’re visiting Boston during peak season and want a broad overview of its highlights, this pass can be a fantastic way to experience the city without fussing over individual tickets. Just remember, it’s most effective when used as part of a well-planned itinerary.

FAQs

Does the pass include transportation?
No, the pass grants access to attractions but does not include transportation unless specified, such as the CityView Trolley Tours.

Can I use the pass for multiple attractions in one day?
Yes. You can visit as many attractions as you like within your valid days, but each attraction can only be visited once.

Is the pass valid for a full year after purchase?
Yes, your pass is valid for 1 year from the date of purchase. It activates upon your first attraction visit and then remains valid for the number of consecutive days purchased.

Are all attractions included in the pass open year-round?
Not necessarily. Some attractions, like the Harvard Museum of Natural History and Plimoth Grist Mill, are temporarily unavailable due to COVID-19, and some seasonal closures may apply.

Do I need to reserve spots at attractions?
Some attractions require reservations, so it’s best to check the included digital guide or app for instructions and to plan ahead.

What if my QR code doesn’t work?
Some reviews noted issues with QR codes. If this happens, contacting Go City customer service promptly can help resolve the problem.

Is it worth the price?
For travelers planning to visit multiple sites, the pass offers good value. It simplifies entry and can save money, especially when combined with the flexibility of choosing your own itinerary.

To sum it up, the Boston Pass by Go City offers a practical and cost-effective way to see a broad swath of Boston’s top attractions. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy spontaneity, want to cover a lot of ground in a short time, and appreciate the convenience of mobile tickets. While some seasonal limitations exist, with a bit of planning, this pass can unlock a memorable Boston experience that balances quality and affordability.