10 Things to Do in Boston in June

Visiting Boston during the month of June is one of the best options due to the ideal weather between spring and summer, not to mention the many activities in the city.

Verónica Álvarez

Verónica Álvarez

9 min read

10 Things to Do in Boston in June

Boston | ©Kristine Stephenson

After Boston's harsh winter, there's nothing better than enjoying the outdoor attractions available in June. From strolls along the Charles River to gay pride month celebrations, there's something for everyone. Everything there is to do and see in Boston throughout the year is enhanced in the month of June.

Join me as I tell you in this article what are the best things to see and do in Boston during the month of June. I'll also give you some money-saving tips on the top activities so you can make the most of your visit to the city this month.

1. Be amazed by Boston's Dragon Boat Festival

Boston Dragon Boat Festival| ©Julian
Boston Dragon Boat Festival| ©Julian

You can celebrate the annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival during the month of June in Boston. It is a festival in which a dragon boat race is held, decorated and painted in bright colours in Hong Kong style.

Around 50 teams of rowers from all over New England and other parts of the United States take part in the event, racing down the Charles River between JFK Street and Western Avenue.

In addition to the dragon boat race, you can enjoy the cultural programmes that accompany this event every year. There are exciting theatrical performances, art and craft demonstrations.

You can also indulge in the tasty Asian food sold at the stalls during this event. This is the oldest Dragon Boat Festival in the United States and one of the oldest in the West.

It is important to note that all programmes at this event are free and suitable for the whole family. Also included are Chinese dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, dance, music and much more.

Practical information

  • Where: On the banks of the Charles River in Boston.
  • When: Dates change from year to year, so keep an eye on the event's website.
  • Price: free

2. Attend one of Boston's Gay Pride Month events

Boston Pride Parade| ©Leslee_atFlickr
Boston Pride Parade| ©Leslee_atFlickr

Boston is one of the cities in the United States that celebrates Gay Pride Month with the most enthusiasm. Throughout the month of June, there are various cultural activities such as cinema, theatre, parades and concerts.

There are also special food events during Boston Gay Pride Month that are really worthwhile. After dinner, the fun doesn't stop, as many venues offer special dances.

Boston Gay Pride month activities are varied and there is something for everyone, for those who prefer the wildness of the nightlife as well as for those who prefer quieter activities.

3. Join the Juneteenth commemorations in Boston

Juneteenth in Boston| ©Dtrain891
Juneteenth in Boston| ©Dtrain891

June is the most important month for people of African descent across the United States. On 19 June, the United States celebrates and commemorates the anniversary of an important event, when enslaved people in parts of Texas learned of their liberation in 1865.

Juneteenth, as this annual event is called, is celebrated in Boston and across the United States in a festive and exciting way.

Events throughout the month of June that accompany the Juneteenth celebrations include delicious food, art shows, music concerts, dancing and above all remembering the history of slavery and freedom.

You can check out Juneteenth' s calendar of events to see what special activities you'd like to participate in.

To learn more about these events , check out this special Juneteenth program.

4. Take part in Bunker Hill Day celebrations and attend the parade

Bunker Hill Memorial| ©Viator
Bunker Hill Memorial| ©Viator

Bunker Hill Day is one of Boston's official holidays and is celebrated annually around June 17th. There are also some pre- and post-Bunker Hill Day activities, depending on the celebration's annual calendar of events.

Bunker Hill Day is the anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill, also known as the Battle of Breed's Hill. This important battle, which took place on June 17, 1775, was part of the Siege of Boston, which took place during the American Revolutionary War.

The Battle of Bunker Hill is considered the first major battle of the American Revolution.

The famous Bunker Hill Day Parade is part of the city's culture and has been a tradition since 1786. It's an event that everyone looks forward to and, above all, it's one of the best things to do with children in Boston.

The little ones love to see the participants, of all ages, dressed in period costume, spreading their joy to all the participants.

You can find out all the details of the Bunker Hill Parade on the official event page on Facebook.

5. One of Boston's most iconic activities, a cruise on the Charles River

Charles River Cruise| ©Brooks Payne
Charles River Cruise| ©Brooks Payne

June in Boston is one of the best months for outdoor activities, thanks to its wonderful weather. One of the things you can't miss is a cruise on the Charles River.

There are different companies that organise cruises on the Charles River at very affordable prices and in strict compliance with all safety regulations.

The great advantage of taking a cruise on the Charles River in June is that the weather is warm, but not stifling and the sun is not as harmful as in the middle of summer, so you can enjoy the ride more relaxed.

There are several options for Charles River cruises and you're sure to find one that suits your tastes.

Book your cruise in Boston

6. Enjoy the start of summer in the city at the Boston Harbor Hotel

Summer in Boston| ©Harry Lipson III
Summer in Boston| ©Harry Lipson III

During the month of June, you'll have the chance to enjoy live music, dancing and moonlit movies at the Boston Harbor Hotel. Each night's schedule includes a specific and different genre of music. Also, once a week there is a fun line-up of movies - all of this entertainment is free!

In addition, those who participate in these shows can order food and drinks at the hotel's restaurant and outdoor bar. These activities are much appreciated by Bostonians and also by dozens of tourists who join them to enjoy these free outdoor events.

Practical information

  • Where: Boston Harbor Hotel, on Rowes Wharf
  • When: All month of June.
  • Price: depends on the event you go to

7. Join another of Boston's favourite parades: the June Day Parade

Boston Military Parade| ©Richard Lee
Boston Military Parade| ©Richard Lee

During the month of June, the city of Boston is full of special parades, so if you're in town at this time of the year, take advantage of them and attend - you won't regret it. Every year in early June, the largest military parade on the east coast of the United States takes place. This ceremony has been an annual tradition since 1638.

Participants in the June Day Parade include the National Guard, the USS Constitution, the United States Navy, the Ancient and Honorable Artillery, the Washington Light Infantry and many, many other historic military organizations. This parade is free and open to the public.

If you want to learn more about the historical events that shaped the city of Boston and the surrounding area, you can book one of the tours focused on the history of the city.

Book a Boston City History Tour

8. Take part in the Feast of St. Peter

Greasy Pole Contest| ©Leon LEE
Greasy Pole Contest| ©Leon LEE

About 45 minutes north of Boston, in the seaside town of Gloucester, the Feast of St. Peter is celebrated at the end of June.

This festival is a long-standing tradition in honour of the patron saint of fishermen, St. Peter. You can travel by train for around 11 euros per person, departing from Boston's North Station.

During the Feast of St. Peter, visitors can enjoy musical concerts, parades, rides, games and the famous 'Greasy Pole Contest', a favourite event for regular participants of the celebration.

The Greasy Pole Contest is a competition in which men dress up in outlandish costumes and try to be the first to grab a flag at the end of a very slippery pole.

The brave winners go down in the local history books as legends and the best part of the contest is that they get free drinks all night.

9. The Beacon Hill Art Walk is one of the best things to do in Boston in June

At the Beacon Hill Art Walk| ©Natalie Gale
At the Beacon Hill Art Walk| ©Natalie Gale

The Beacon Hill Art Walk takes place on the first Sunday in June every year, from noon to 6pm.

On this day, Beacon Hill residents open their private gardens and courtyards to allow artists to exhibit and sell their work.

This is an excellent opportunity for visitors to tour Beacon Hill's private places while viewing original handmade artwork.

It is estimated that thousands of people attend each year. This is a popular, free event with a festive atmosphere and family-friendly performances by volunteer musicians who play in various gardens throughout the day. There are usually about 100 performers, with a wide range of styles.

The Beacon Hill Art Walk is an event not to be missed if you're a fan of the visual arts.

Practical info

  • Where: all over the northern slopes of Beacon Hill.
  • When: First Sunday in June.
  • Price: free

10. Tour the city's parks

On the Rose Kennedy Greenway| ©Andrew Nash
On the Rose Kennedy Greenway| ©Andrew Nash

Boston is a city that has many green spaces to enjoy. Due to its extreme weather during the winter months, Bostonians are not able to enjoy them much during the colder months.

For this reason, many of the city's residents choose the month of June to stroll through the city's parks and squares, enjoying the beautiful variety of flowers and trees in all their splendour.

You can take advantage of this time to get to know the city well and do some of the top 10 things to do in Boston in spring.

Temperatures in Boston during the month of June

Evening in Boston| ©Kristine Stephenson
Evening in Boston| ©Kristine Stephenson

In June, the first warmth of summer begins, but for much of the month it can be quite windy and humid, especially in the first few weeks.

Temperatures hover around 24 degrees Celsius, but drop drastically at night to 16 to 18 degrees.

Be aware that rain showers are possible, so it's a good idea to pack rain gear.

Boston's June tourist crowds

Beacon Hill| ©Javi D
Beacon Hill| ©Javi D

As the weather improves, the city begins to gain more foreign tourists. In the month of June, due to the large number of historical and patriotic events, Boston and the surrounding area is a destination for many domestic tourists as well.

For these reasons, when planning your travel itinerary, it is advisable to buy and book tickets online for the attractions you plan to visit to secure your place. It's also a good idea to book excursions from Boston to nearby attractions in advance to guarantee your place.

Are prices in Boston in June too high?

Money in Euros| ©Pixabay
Money in Euros| ©Pixabay

In high season it is common for prices to increase a little, both in shops, hotels and services in general.

A good way to save a lot of money during the month of June is to buy one of Boston' s tourist passes that offer free entry to many attractions as well as significant discounts in shops, restaurants and transport.

Buy your Boston Sightseeing Card

What to pack for your visit to Boston in June

Packing your bags| ©Marissa Grootes
Packing your bags| ©Marissa Grootes

When you're packing your bags remember to pack:

  • Swimming costume, the weather is warmer, maybe you can go to the beach or enjoy the pool at your hotel.
  • Light and comfortable clothes to be able to walk around the city comfortably.
  • Comfortable shoes because you will be walking a lot.
  • Hat, to protect you from the sun during your walks.
  • Sunscreen, essential if you are going to do outdoor activities.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Acoat for the evening because it tends to get quite chilly when the sun goes down.
  • Slightlymore formal clothes in case you go to a concert or show at night.