Boston
Boston
United States
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Boston is a city where colonial history meets world-class innovation, all set against a backdrop of distinct New England seasons. As a quintessential humid continental climate destination, Boston offe...
About Boston
Boston is a city where colonial history meets world-class innovation, all set against a backdrop of distinct New England seasons. As a quintessential humid continental climate destination, Boston offers everything from snow-dusted cobblestones in the winter to the fiery reds of autumn foliage. Whether you are following the Freedom Trail or cheering at Fenway Park, timing is everything in 'Beantown.' While it shares the historic gravitas of cities like Philadelphia and Washington, Boston's compact, walkable nature makes its seasonal shifts more intimate. For those who enjoy the crisp air of the Northeast, it’s a perfect companion to a trip through New York or Chicago, though visitors seeking year-round warmth might prefer a detour to Miami or Phoenix during the colder months.
Fly from Halifax, or anywhere in Atlantic Canada, and discover Boston at its best. We'll show you when to go, what to see, and where to eat, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
March, April, May
Spring (March–May)
June, July, August
Summer (June–August)
September, October, November
Fall (September–November)
December, January, February
Winter (December–February)
What's Included
Seasonal Guide
Complete 12-month breakdown with weather, crowds & pricing
Flights from Halifax
Routes: Halifax — Boston, or via major hubs from Atlantic Canada
Neighborhoods
5 curated areas to stay, from budget to luxury
Budget Guide
USD daily budgets: $100–150/day to $600+/day
At a Glance: When to Visit Boston
Best Overall
May–June and September–October
Cheapest
January–February
Busiest
July–August and mid-October
Best Weather
June and September
For Events
April (Marathon) and October (Regatta)
For Families
June–August
For Couples
September–October
Budget Travel
January–March
From Atlantic Canada
Halifax to Boston.
Month by month.
Everything you need to know about travelling from Canada to Boston — the best seasons, what to pack, and how to save.
Month-by-Month Guide to Boston
January
Average highs of 2°C (36°F) and lows of -5°C (22°F). High chance of snow and roughly 5 hours of daily sunshine.
“Best for budget travelers who don't mind the cold and want the city's museums to themselves.”
February
Highs of 3°C (38°F), lows of -4°C (24°F). Frequently the snowiest month of the year.
“Ideal for sports fans (hockey) and those looking for the absolute lowest hotel rates.”
March
Highs of 8°C (46°F), lows of 0°C (32°F). Unpredictable weather with a mix of rain and late-season snow.
“Best for those wanting to experience the world-famous South Boston St. Patrick's Day celebrations.”
April
Highs of 14°C (57°F), lows of 5°C (41°F). Frequent spring showers ('April showers').
“Best for fitness enthusiasts and history buffs, but book hotels months in advance for Marathon Monday.”
May
Highs of 20°C (68°F), lows of 10°C (50°F). Beautiful blooming trees and mild humidity.
“A gorgeous month for flowers, but beware of 'Graduation Season' which spikes hotel prices to their highest levels.”
June
Highs of 25°C (77°F), lows of 15°C (59°F). Pleasant warmth with low humidity compared to late summer.
“Widely considered the best month for outdoor activities and comfortable sightseeing.”
July
Highs of 28°C (82°F), lows of 19°C (66°F). Peak summer heat and occasional humidity.
“Best for those who want the full American summer experience and waterfront festivals.”
August
Highs of 27°C (81°F), lows of 18°C (64°F). Humid and warm; the ocean is at its warmest.
“Great for foodies wanting to experience the North End's famous street festivals.”
September
Highs of 23°C (73°F), lows of 14°C (57°F). Cooling temperatures and clear, crisp skies.
“Best for perfect walking weather and a vibrant, student-driven energy.”
October
Highs of 17°C (63°F), lows of 8°C (46°F). Crisp autumn air and peak fall foliage.
“The most beautiful time to visit, but also the most expensive month for accommodation.”
November
Highs of 11°C (52°F), lows of 3°C (37°F). Chilly and often gray as winter approaches.
“Best for travelers who want fall vibes without the October price tag.”
December
Highs of 5°C (41°F), lows of -2°C (28°F). Festive but cold; early snow is common.
“Best for those seeking holiday charm and historic winter traditions.”
Festivals & Events in Boston
First Night Boston
A massive New Year's Eve celebration with ice sculptures, parades, and fireworks.
Hotels in Back Bay and Downtown fill up; expect street closures.St. Patrick's Day Parade
One of the largest parades in the country, celebrating Boston's deep Irish roots.
Very high impact on South Boston; public transit is extremely crowded.Boston Marathon
The world's oldest annual marathon, held on Patriots' Day.
Major city-wide impact; hotels sell out 6+ months in advance.Lilac Sunday
A celebration of the lilac collection at the Arnold Arboretum.
Moderate; local traffic around Jamaica Plain increases.Harborfest
A multi-day Fourth of July festival celebrating Boston’s maritime and colonial history.
High; the waterfront area and Faneuil Hall are packed with tourists.North End Feasts
Religious processions and street festivals with incredible Italian food.
High in the North End; walking is easy but driving is impossible.Head of the Charles Regatta
The world's largest two-day rowing event on the Charles River.
Very high; hotels near Harvard and the river are at a premium.Boston Tea Party Reenactment
A large-scale dramatic reenactment of the 1773 event.
Moderate; brings history buffs to the Waterfront district.Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Visit Boston?
USD
Daily Budget
Peak
$350–500/night
Off-Peak
$120–200/night
Boston is one of the most expensive hotel markets in the U.S. Prices fluctuate wildly based on university events; a graduation weekend in May can be 3x more expensive than a weekend in February.
Where to Stay in Boston by Season
Back Bay
PremiumYear-round / Spring
Known for Victorian brownstones and high-end shopping on Newbury Street. Stunning when spring flowers bloom.
North End
Moderate to PeakSummer
The historic Italian district. Best in summer when street feasts are in full swing and the harbor is nearby.
Beacon Hill
PremiumFall
Boston's most photographed neighborhood. The brick and ivy look spectacular with autumn leaves.
Seaport District
PeakSummer
A modern, trendy area on the water with rooftops and harbor views. Perfect for July heat.
South End
ModerateSpring / Fall
A local favorite with a massive arts scene and park-filled streets. Great for foodie explorations.
What to Pack for Boston
Spring
Pro tip: The wind off the Charles River can make 50°F feel like 40°F—always carry an extra layer.
Summer
Pro tip: Many historic buildings have aggressive air conditioning; a light wrap is essential indoors.
Fall
Pro tip: Dress in 'smart casual' layers—Bostonians lean toward a preppy, polished aesthetic in the fall.
Winter
Pro tip: Salt used on snowy sidewalks can ruin leather; choose waterproof, durable footwear.
FAQs: Visiting Boston
What is the best month to visit Boston?
October is widely considered the best month due to the stunning fall foliage and crisp, comfortable weather, though it is the most expensive.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Boston?
January and February offer the lowest airfares and hotel rates, as the weather is at its coldest.
How many days do I need in Boston?
Three to four days is usually sufficient to see the major historical sites, explore a few museums, and enjoy the waterfront.
Is Boston worth visiting in winter?
Yes, if you enjoy museums, cozy dining, and festive atmospheres. It is also significantly cheaper than other seasons.
When is peak fall foliage in Boston?
Foliage usually peaks in the city from mid-to-late October, slightly later than in northern New England.
What is the weather like in Boston in July?
It is warm and humid, with highs averaging 82°F (28°C). It's great for being on the water but can be draining for long walks.
Why are hotels so expensive in May?
Boston is home to dozens of universities. Graduation season in May and June brings thousands of families to the city, selling out hotels.
Can I see the fall foliage and do the Freedom Trail in one day?
Absolutely. The Freedom Trail passes through the Public Garden and several historic parks that offer great leaf-peeping.
Also Consider: Other Destinations in United States
Chicago
Like Boston, Chicago has intense seasons, but it trades Boston's historic colonial feel for soaring modern architecture and a massive lakefront.
New York
Just a short train ride away, New York offers a much faster pace and higher scale, whereas Boston feels like a compact, walkable collection of villages.
Philadelphia
If you are visiting for the history, Philadelphia is the only city that rivals Boston's Revolutionary War importance with a slightly more affordable price tag.
Washington
Washington provides a similar historic gravity but with a more humid, southern climate and a grander, monument-focused layout.
Miami
For those escaping the harsh Boston winter, Miami offers a tropical retreat with a nightlife and beach scene that is entirely different from the Northeast.
San Francisco
Both are compact, water-locked, and hilly historic cities, but San Francisco offers a mild, 'eternal spring' climate compared to Boston’s extreme seasons.
Seattle
Seattle shares Boston's intellectual and maritime spirit but with a rainy, temperate Pacific Northwest climate rather than the snowy Atlantic winter.
Phoenix
Phoenix is the perfect winter alternative, offering desert heat and outdoor hiking when Boston is buried in snow.
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