As with other New England cities and towns, the best time to visit Boston depends on your favorite season, as you can truly experience all four in Boston, but popular opinion from locals and tourists alike reveals your best bet for great weather and fewer crowds is in the spring (May to June) or fall (September to October).

Late spring and early fall are the best time to visit because it’s not too hot, not too cold, and you can take advantage of key attractions that make the city a top tourist destination. No matter what time of year you choose to visit Boston, refer to this guide as you plan what to do, where to stay, and what to pack.

Weather in Boston
One of the best parts of Boston is that you can experience all four seasons, as each is quite different when it comes to weather. There are benefits to each season, but choosing the best season to visit depends on whether you prefer snow, foliage, or sunshine.

Spring typically brings highs in the 50s to 70s degrees F, increasing to the higher end as you get into June. In the summer, average temps will reach the low 80s. July and August see average highs in the low 80s, though June and even September can get hot as well. During hotter months, you may consider taking a day or weekend trip to Massachusetts beaches north or south of the city, or even heading to Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, or Nantucket. But if you choose to stay overnight in a coastal destination, expect peak season pricing from Memorial Day Weekend all the way through October in many cases.

As you get into fall, the end of September and sometimes early October can remain in the 70s—but eventually, October and November bring chillier, more fall-like weather.

Once December hits, the temperature drops significantly and stays that way until spring comes around. Snowstorms have hit Boston as early as November and as late as April, so be aware of that as you book travel arrangements.1 Boston can be unpredictable in this way, but the snowstorms can also make for beautiful scenery throughout the city.

Seasonal Prices in Boston
May through October is when you’ll typically experience the highest price for accommodations, with October topping the list in recent years. July and August don't see quite as high prices as the other months, likely due to hot temperatures that oftentimes make for a better day spent at the beach than in the city. For the most economical option, pull out your parka, and head to Boston in January or February.

Crowds
Even during peak season (May through October), you’ll likely find that the crowds aren’t as crazy as in other popular tourist destinations. More often than not, you won't find yourself waiting in hours-long lines that you can find in other major cities. But keep in mind that for local families, kids are typically only out of school during July and August (snow days tend to keep public schools open through the end of June). This adds to the crowd situation at tourist attractions, especially those that are ideal for families. If you have specific museums and activities in mind, it's always helpful to plan ahead and grab tickets online if you can, which will not only secure you a spot but may also help save some money.

Tourist Attraction Availability
During peak season, you’ll be able to access the major sights with no problem. You may even want to find a way to head to one of the Boston area beaches in the summer months.

Attractions like the popular Boston Duck Tours, which take you out on the Charles River and through various points within the city, operate daily from April to late November. Holiday Duck Tours have also been offered.

The city certainly doesn’t shut down during the winter months, as Bostonians are well acclimated to the chillier temps and snow. For outdoor activities, you can go ice skating at the Frog Pond or browse the city’s festive holiday décor, especially in neighborhoods like Beacon Hill.

And whether it’s cold or rainy at any time of year, there are plenty of indoor museums to visit, ranging from the Museum of Science to the Children’s Museum. One that you’ll want to save for nicer weather is the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, as you’ll be outdoors for a bit during the reenactment and dumping of the tea overboard.

Popular Events in Boston
One of the most popular events that brings people from all over the world to the city is the Boston Marathon, the country’s oldest marathon that takes place each year on Patriots’ Day in April. Whether you’re a runner or spectator, it’s quite the experience, as long as you don’t have a problem with crowds. If you’re traveling to the city on the weekend of Marathon Monday, expect hotel rates much higher than usual, and be sure to book far in advance.

St. Patrick’s Day is a popular Boston holiday, especially in Irish neighborhoods like South Boston, where a parade takes place each year. And there are lots of activities around Independence Day along the Charles River, including the annual Boston Pops concert and fireworks.