The Boston Marathon is held annually on Patriots’ Day, the third Monday of April. This race is one of the city’s most significant events, drawing thousands of runners and spectators from around the world. The city and the surrounding areas transform into a hub of excitement and celebration.  While the marathon is the main attraction, Boston offers a plethora of activities and sights to explore before, during, and after the race. Here’s a guide to making the most of your time while in town for the Boston Marathon, including some unforgettable experiences with City Cruises!

Exploring the Boston Marathon Route

The Boston Marathon route begins in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. It winds its way through Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, and Brookline before culminating on Boylston Street in Boston. Each town along the route has its unique charm and offers various activities, such as:

• Hopkinton: Explore the small, welcoming community’s shops and cafes. Grab a cup of coffee and head to the starting line to see the action begin!
• Wellesley: Visit the “Scream Tunnel” at Wellesley College, where students cheer on runners. After the race, walk through Wellesley’s charming downtown area full of boutique shops and eateries.
• Newton: Home to the infamous Heartbreak Hill, Newton offers a challenging yet iconic part of the race. Since the hill comes at around mile 20, runners are already fatigued, making it that much more difficult. This town has beautiful parks to enjoy and historic sites to see.

Get in the Spirit of Patriot’s Day and Get Ready for Race

Boston Marathon Expo

Located at the John B. Hynes Veteran Memorial Convention Center, the Boston Marathon Expo is a must-visit for runners and enthusiasts. This event is free and open to the public. Exhibitors showcase the latest in running gear, technology, and nutrition. It’s also where runners pick up their race bibs, gear bags, and packets, and maybe even a few souvenirs from the exhibitors.

Cheer on the Runners

If you aren’t taking part in the race, join the spirited crowds of fans along the marathon route to cheer on the runners. The atmosphere is infectious, especially around the finish line on Boylston Street.

Preparing for Marathon Day in Boston, Massachusetts

As thousands of people gather in the city, it’s important to prepare for crowds and take care of essentials ahead of time. Take advantage of the city’s great public transportation services. Boston’s MBTA (known as the “T”) is the easiest way to get around the city on marathon day. If the train is too crowded, Boston is a walkable city with plenty of bike rental options.

Whether you’re running or spectating, keep water and snacks on hand. Staying properly hydrated and nourished can make the difference between an amazing experience and a dreadful one. Stay aware of your surroundings, follow security guidelines, and report suspicious activity to authorities. Keep track of weather forecasts, as Boston’s weather in April can be unpredictable. To be on the safe side, bring a light sweater, a waterproof windbreaker, and shorts, as it can be chilly, rainy, or warm.

Explore Historic Boston While In-Town for the Marathon

See a piece of American history on the Freedom Trail. A 2.5-mile-long path through downtown Boston, the Freedom Trail passes by 16 significant historical sites. Start your journey at Boston Common as you “ride like Paul Revere” and make your way to landmarks such as the Massachusetts State House and the Old North Church. The trail is marked by a red brick line, making it easy to follow.

Family-Friendly Activities in Boston

New England Aquarium

Located on Central Wharf, the New England Aquarium is home to thousands of marine animals, including sea turtles, sharks, and penguins. The centerpiece is the Giant Ocean Tank, a four-story coral reef exhibit that was hand-sculpted and painted by aquarium artists.

Whale Watching with City Cruises

Set sail with us for the whale watch experience of a lifetime on the New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise. Climb aboard our custom whale watch catamarans as we sail on a 3-4-hour experience to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. It is a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds, and other marine creatures. Stellwagen is home to many species of large whales, including humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes. New England Aquarium naturalists will share their knowledge, answer your questions, and explain the fascinating behaviors of these truly magnificent mammals.

Fuel-Up with Boston’s Food Scene as Your Final Race Prep Ritual

Boston is world-famous for its seafood! Try a lobster roll, fresh mussels, lump crab cakes, or authentic New England clam chowder. Union Oyster House has been serving up some of the best eats in the area for nearly 200 years! As America’s oldest operating restaurant, it is something you need to add to your itinerary while in Beantown.

The North End, also known as Boston’s Little Italy, is a must-visit for foodies. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at local favorites such as Giacomo’s. Tasting Table voted it one of “The 20 Best Italian Restaurants in the U.S.” Try their house-made pasta, which pairs perfectly with their selection of seafood, chicken, and veal.

The South End is known for its trendy eateries and brunch spots. Taste Boston’s award-winning Spanish tapas at Toro. This restaurant was co-founded by the famous chef Ken Oringer, who owns several top restaurants in the Boston area.

Dine with City Cruises Boston Before or After the Big Race

Come dine, dance, and celebrate your accomplishments aboard the Boston Signature Dinner Cruise. Whether you are celebrating a personal best, first-time completion, or looking for some fun ahead of the grueling 26.2 miles, this dining cruise is the perfect partner for your Boston Marathon plans. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner buffet featuring entrees, salads, and desserts. Grab a cocktail, wine, or beer from our well-stocked cash bar, and let the DJ’s tunes set the mood for a good time. You’ll have the best views of the Boston skyline and waterfront landmarks, including Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge and Boston’s Seaport District. Both offer the perfect backdrop for celebratory photos. Our decks are climate-controlled to cruise year-round in all weather conditions.

Boston Harbor Cruises and Waterfront Activities

Boston’s historic waterfront offers numerous activities and things to do. You can explore the Seaport District, book a sunset cruise, or take a ferry ride to the Boston Harbor Islands. However, we recommend:

Historic Boston Harbor Cruise

The best way to see Boston’s beautiful skyline is from the water. The Historic Boston Harbor Cruise provides a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective. During this fully narrated 1-hour Historic Boston Harbor Cruise through the harbor, you’ll hear heroic tales of the Revolutionary War and local legends of the sea. Learn how the harbor was transformed into one of the cleanest waterways in the country. Other highlights include views of the Boston Harbor Islands, USS Constitution (“Old Ironsides”), and the Bunker Hill Monument.

CODZILLA Thrill-boat Ride in Boston

Are you looking for something to get your heart rate pumping besides running the marathon? Get ready to roar for more after riding the CODZILLA thrill-boat ride! We put the pedal to the metal and the volume to 11 as we blast an original soundtrack and storyline that takes you on a fun, up-tempo journey. There won’t be any relaxation on this cruise. Guests will have thrills galore as you scream across the water at up to 40 MPH, with a few hairpin turns and 360-degree spins thrown in for good measure. CODZILLA is 70 feet of marine aluminum and bad attitude, prowling the ocean with two turbo-charged diesel engines, state-of-the-art water jets, and 2,800 horsepower. Its unique hull design makes it capable of thrilling turns and spinning on a dime! Be sure to secure all hats, scarves, and eyewear!

City Cruises Welcomes You to the Boston Marathon!

Marathon Week in Boston, Massachusetts, is an exciting place to be. Whether you’re there to run, support a runner, or simply soak in the atmosphere, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. So, lace up your racing shoes, plan your itinerary with City Cruises, and get ready to experience the best of Boston during the marathon.