Boston offers activities galore to make the official end of summer unforgettable. The program caters to all tastes. You can choose between harbor fireworks, whale watching, iconic baseball by Red Sox, a trip to Cape Cod, or merely another beach holiday.
Attend a Red Sox Game at Fenway Park (September 1–3, 2023)
Typically, Boston Red Sox play several games at Fenway Park during Labor Day Weekend, excluding the holiday Monday itself.
Book a Whale Watching Cruise
Apart from the fireworks, Boston Harbor is a getaway to a whale encounter. Early fall is a perfect time for viewing the gentle giants on a cruise to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. You can spot acrobatic humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, and sometimes pilots, along with other marine wildlife. An average trip lasts for 3.5–4 hours, and the adventure starts from Long Wharf. Make sure to come in advance to occupy the most convenient seats on the top deck, and bring a light jacket, sunscreen, and a hat.
Take a Trip to Provincetown, Cape Cod
A long weekend is an excellent occasion to plan a trip out of the city. Provincetown, which is situated at the eastern tip of Cape Cod is a great destination to explore for a day or longer. This picturesque village boasts scenic lanes, art galleries, clothing boutiques, excellent seafood restaurants overlooking the water, gorgeous sunsets, and of course, the beach! Provincetown is easily accessible by the "Fast Ferry," but it has to be booked in advance, especially on a holiday weekend. The journey by a comfortable passenger-only catamaran will take 1.5 hours. Provincetown Ferry departs from the Long Wharf. Alternatively, you can go by car, that's a 2-hour drive. Also, you may get some inspiration from other road trip itineraries from Boston.
Chill out at a City Beach
If you prefer to stay in the city and enjoy the outdoors, the most convenient choice would be a beach weekend. The beach season in Boston area continues all the way up to mid-September, yet depending on the weather, Labor Day could be the last chance to take in the sun. The local favorites include Carson Beach, Savin Hill Beach and Dorchester Shores Reservation, Orient Heights Beach, M Street Beach, and many more.
See Fireworks over Boston Harbor (August 31, 2023)
Labor Day Fireworks over Boston Harbor open the long weekend of celebration on Thursday evening. The show usually begins at 8:30 pm. The fireworks are launched from the barges near the North End and the Seaport. A cruise boat will be the most winning option for the best spectacle. Alternatively, you may view the show from Christopher Columbus Park or Long Wharf in the North End and all along the Downtown Waterfront. Fan Pier in the Seaport District is another great spot, and also Piers Park in East Boston. Just bring a sweater as the evenings are chilly, especially near the water.
Find all locations on the map. For the tickets and latest updates, please check with the official website (see External Resources below.)
