a citizen's guide for 2025 travellers
Boston’s sweet spot for travel? June to October. The city is alive with festivals, perfect patio weather, and fiery autumn foliage. But with all that beauty comes the buzz—high season means bigger crowds and higher prices. On the flip side, winter and early spring offer a quieter, chillier experience, with lower hotel rates and a chance to see Boston in its snow-dusted glory. Whether you're here for peak-season energy or off-season charm, 2025 has plenty in store.
high season July and August are when Boston turns up the heat—literally and figuratively. Sun-soaked days, bustling streets, and the electric energy of Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, just a 12-minute walk from our citizenM Boston Back Bay hotel. Whether you're cheering on the Sox, strolling the Freedom Trail, or hopping between rooftop bars, summer is peak season for a reason.
Expect average highs around 80°F (27–28°C), with the occasional scorcher creeping into the low 90s (32–33°C).
shoulder season But hey, if you’re after a quieter vibe with fewer crowds but still heaps happening, the shoulder season is your best mate. We’re talking late spring (May and June) and early fall (September). You'll enjoy comfy weather and vibrant events like the Boston Film Festival. If you’re a sucker for autumn magic, October is when Boston shows off—crisp air, fiery foliage, and golden-hour strolls that feel like a movie scene.
low season And if the cold never bothered you anyway, the low season will be right up your alley. Imagine Boston with cozy cafés, twinkling holiday lights, and ice skating on Frog Pond. Tempting, right?
Boston’s weather? A little bit of everything, all the time. Packing for a trip here is like preparing for a plot twist—you never quite know what you’ll get. Sunny mornings can turn into drizzly afternoons, and a cool breeze might just sneak up on you when you least expect it. But hey, that’s part of the city’s charm.
Boston’s most rainy months
Thinking of leaving the umbrella at home? Think again. September takes the crown for the most rainfall, so expect some showers alongside those gorgeous early autumn days. February, on the other hand, dials it back with fewer rainy days—but don’t let that fool you, winter in Boston is all about chilly temps and the occasional snowstorm. Bottom line: layer up, bring an umbrella, and embrace the unpredictability. Remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only a chance to rock your best boots and cute umbrella!
Winter in Boston feels like you've wandered onto the set of a Disney movie. Yes, it’s chilly (average temps hover between 20–35°F / -6 to 1°C), but that’s what cozy cafés and steaming bowls of clam chowder are for. In need of some indoor charm? The Museum of Fine Arts is ready to play host with its splendid galleries. And when it comes to Christmas vibes, Boston doesn’t hold back—think charming pop-up markets, dazzling light displays, and enough holiday cheer to make even the Grinch crack a smile. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and let the city’s winter magic do the rest!
January
January might chill the bones, but it's also Boston at its calmest. Perfect for a sneaky jaunt post-holiday bustle. How about warming up with a hot chocolate from the Thinking Cup while taking in a snowy Boston Common? And don't miss Fenway Fest on January 11 at Fenway Park—a revamped fan experience offering a unique peek into the Red Sox's home turf.
February
February might be chilly, but Boston heats things up with Valentine's Day vibes. Walk hand-in-hand along the snowy paths of the Public Garden and let the romantic air sweep you off your feet. Plus, from February 12 to 20, the 4 Nations Face-Off brings international ice hockey excitement to TD Garden, right next to our citizenM Boston North Station hotel.
March
As Boston shakes off the winter chill, the city bursts into lively celebrations. St. Patrick's Day on March 17 brings parades, vibrant gatherings, and yes, plenty of green beer! And for a touch of culture, the Boston Ballet presents "Swan Lake" at the Citizens Bank Opera House throughout the month. Additionally, the Boston Seafood Festival offers a day of delicious seafood, chef demos, and entertainment on the historic Fish Pier.
Bundle up and enjoy all that Boston has to offer in these early months of 2025!
Spring sees Boston blooming beautifully. The Public Garden bursts into colour, cherry blossoms line the Charles River, and café patios fill up with locals basking in the sunshine. With mild temps ranging from 50–70°F (10–21°C), it’s prime time for long walks, outdoor festivals, and the first Red Sox games of the season. April brings the world-famous Boston Marathon, while May delivers rooftop season and fresh seafood straight from the Atlantic. Whether you're here for history, baseball, or just that fresh spring air, Boston in bloom is a sight to behold.
April
April is the best moment to seeing Boston in bloom. Don’t miss the Swan Boats as they make their seasonal debut in the Public Garden. And for the culture vultures, the Boston Marathon takes place on April 21, with elite runners like Hellen Obiri aiming for a historic third consecutive win.
May
May turns the city into a stage with events like the Boston Calling Music Festival from May 23 to 25 at the Harvard Athletic Complex. This year's lineup features headliners such as Fall Out Boy, Dave Matthews Band, and Luke Combs, along with performances by Vampire Weekend, Public Enemy, and Avril Lavigne. The streets are lively, and it’s just the right time for patio dining and riverside walks.
June
June is when Boston really parties. The Boston Pride Parade on June 14th adds color and life everywhere you look, celebrating diversity and inclusion. Outdoor concerts fill the air with music, and the city buzzes with energy. Additionally, the Dragon Boat Festival on the Charles River showcases vibrant boat races and cultural performances.
Summer in Boston? It’s a whole vibe. Imagine lounging on the grass under a sun-drenched sky, a film projector humming in the background—it’s like your own open-air cinema. And speaking of temps, they're spot on, hovering between a comfy 70 to 85 F (21 to 29C). Perfect for all your outdoor shenanigans.
July
July in Boston? It's all about fireworks, open-air concerts, and those long, lush summer nights. The month kicks off with Boston Harborfest, a multi-day festival celebrating the city's rich history with events like historical reenactments, Freedom Trail walks, and a spectacular fireworks display over the harbor. On July 4th, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular at the Hatch Shell offers live music culminating in a dazzling fireworks show over the Charles River. Later in the month, Coldplay brings their "Music of the Spheres" tour to Gillette Stadium on July 15 and 16, promising unforgettable performances.
August
August keeps the buzz going with more festivals, outdoor eats, and harbor cruises. Don’t miss the chance to catch a game at Fenway Park, where the Red Sox will be in full swing. The Boston Jazz Fest typically takes place in August, featuring local and international artists performing at various venues across the city.
September
September might hint at summer’s end, but the party is far from over. The Boston Film Festival arrives, showcasing a range of independent films, documentaries, and shorts. The city's back-to-school energy is infectious, with students returning and the cultural calendar in full swing. Outdoor events continue, and the weather remains pleasant, making it a great time for exploring neighborhoods, attending street festivals, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Experience the dynamic energy of Boston's summer in 2025, where each month offers unique events and activities that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
As the leaves change, Boston transforms into a picturesque autumn scene. Hot chocolate stands pop up across the city, offering cozy warmth as you stroll through streets bathed in golden hues. Fall in Boston truly feels like an all-day golden hour. October
October brings cultural heavyweights like the Honk! Festival of Activist Street Bands, where the city thrums with lively music and performances. Additionally, the Head of the Charles Regatta on October 18-19 showcases rowing teams from around the world competing on the Charles River. The city buzzes with various music events and film screenings, creating a dynamic scene for culture-savvy citizens.
November
November might be quieter, but it's a hidden gem for visitors. The Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair from November 14-16 offers a treasure trove for book enthusiasts. It's the perfect time to explore the city without the typical tourist crowds.
December
December in Boston is downright festive. The city dazzles with holiday lights, bustling markets, and plenty of ice skating. Don't miss the Boston Common Tree Lighting on December 5, which illuminates the heart of the city. The Boston Pops' Holiday Pops concerts run throughout the month, offering a musical treat for all ages. And for a unique experience, check out the Upside-Down Christmas Tree installation at The Liberty Hotel.
And there you have it – your ultimate 2025 guide to Boston, season by season. Whether you're bundling up for a winter wonderland, chasing cherry blossoms in spring, basking in summer's golden glow, or crunching through autumn leaves, Boston’s got something special waiting for you. So, pack your bags, book your stay at citizenM Boston hotels, and get ready to dive into the city. Boston’s calling – are you in?