Boston & Niagara Falls 9-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).

Head to your hotel in the Back Bay area for check-in and to drop off your luggage. Take some time to settle in.

From BOS, you can take a taxi, ride-share, or the MBTA Silver Line to South Station, then connect to the subway (Red Line or other lines depending on hotel location).

Freedom Trail Part 1

Begin your exploration of Boston's rich history by walking a section of the iconic Freedom Trail.

Focus on sites like Boston Common, Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, King's Chapel, Old State House, and the Old South Meeting House.

Dinner at Faneuil Hall

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants or food stalls within Faneuil Hall Marketplace, a historic marketplace and popular dining spot.

Boston Harborwalk Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely morning walk along the Boston Harborwalk, taking in views of the waterfront and historic ships.

This offers great photo opportunities and fresh air.

Check out Boston's Waterfront (TripAdvisor rating 4.5/5).

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Step back in time to one of America's most pivotal historical events.

Experience interactive exhibits and re-enactments aboard authentic replica ships.

Lunch in the North End

Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine for lunch in Boston's historic North End, also known as Little Italy.

Plenty of trattorias and bakeries to choose from.

Private North End Neighborhood Tour

Explore Boston's Little Italy with an expert, discovering hidden gems, historical sites, and cultural insights, creating lasting food memories.

Evening in North End

Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the North End.

Perhaps grab a famous cannoli or gelato for dessert after your tour, or simply soak in the ambiance.

Boston Public Garden & Common

Wander through America's first botanical garden, the Boston Public Garden, known for its swan boats (seasonal) and diverse flora. Then explore the adjacent Boston Common, the oldest park in the U.S.

The Frog Pond on Boston Common offers ice skating in winter. Free admission.

Boston Public Library

Visit the stunning Central Library in Copley Square, an architectural masterpiece.

Explore its grand halls, historic reading rooms, and beautiful courtyards.

Free admission. Don't miss the Bates Hall and the courtyard.

Lunch in Back Bay

Enjoy a casual lunch in the elegant Back Bay neighborhood, with many options ranging from cafes to bistros.

Boston Private Driving City Tour

Get an excellent overview of Boston's neighborhoods and historical sites from the comfort of a private vehicle, perfect for families to cover more ground efficiently.

Dinner near Fenway Park

Experience the lively atmosphere around Fenway Park, even in the off-season.

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants catering to sports fans and locals alike.

Rental Car Pickup & Departure

Check out from your Boston hotel and pick up your rental car.

A car is highly recommended for this leg of the journey for flexibility with luggage and family.

Book your rental car in advance. Major rental agencies are available at Boston Logan Airport or downtown locations.

Scenic Drive to Niagara Falls, NY

Embark on a long but scenic drive from Boston to Niagara Falls, New York.

This journey typically takes 7-8 hours, so plan for comfort stops and snacks.

Consider podcasts, audiobooks, or travel games for the family. Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks.

Hotel Check-in Niagara Falls

Arrive in Niagara Falls, NY, and check into your pre-booked hotel.

Take some time to relax after the long drive.

Niagara Falls Illumination

Experience the majestic Niagara Falls illuminated in a spectrum of colors after dark.

This breathtaking spectacle offers a different perspective of the falls' power and beauty.

The illumination typically runs year-round, weather permitting. Check local schedules.

Niagara Falls State Park

Explore Niagara Falls State Park, America's oldest state park.

Visit key viewing areas like Prospect Point, Terrapin Point, and Luna Island for stunning views of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.

In January, attractions like Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds are closed due to ice. Focus on elevated viewing platforms and the Visitor Center for winter experiences. The Observation Tower remains open year-round for panoramic views.

Aquarium of Niagara

Discover a variety of aquatic life at the Aquarium of Niagara, featuring penguins, seals, sharks, and various fish species.

A great indoor option, especially during colder weather.

Lunch in Niagara Falls

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Niagara Falls, NY.

Options range from casual diners to family-friendly eateries.

Goat Island Exploration

Explore Goat Island, situated between the Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls.

It offers unique vantage points and walking paths amidst the natural beauty, even in winter.

Accessible by foot or by car (parking available). Provides close-up views of the rapids leading to the falls.

Dinner in Niagara Falls

Have dinner at a restaurant of your choice in the Niagara Falls area.

Arrive in NYC & Hotel Check-in

Arrive in New York City from Niagara Falls.

Check into your hotel and drop off luggage. Freshen up before heading out to explore.

Explore Central Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the iconic Central Park, visiting attractions like Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, and the Alice in Wonderland statue.

Lunch near Times Square

Grab a quick and casual lunch in the bustling Times Square area, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the New York City skyline, including the Empire State Building and Central Park, from the Top of the Rock.

Book tickets in advance online to secure your time slot.

Broadway Show

Enjoy a world-class Broadway musical or play in the iconic Theater District.

A memorable experience for the whole family.

Purchase tickets well in advance for popular shows. Consider a pre-theater dinner.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Take a ferry to visit the Statue of Liberty and explore Ellis Island, learning about immigration history and seeing iconic views of Manhattan.

Book ferry tickets in advance, especially if you want crown/pedestal access. Wear comfortable shoes.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Visit the poignant 9/11 Memorial and Museum to pay respects and learn about the events of September 11, 2001.

Tickets for the museum are recommended to be booked online. The memorial pools are free to visit.

Explore Wall Street & Charging Bull

Walk through the historic Financial District, see the New York Stock Exchange, Federal Hall, and take a photo with the Charging Bull statue.

Dinner in Greenwich Village

Enjoy dinner in the charming and historic Greenwich Village, known for its diverse culinary scene and bohemian vibe.

Morning Museum Visit (NYC)

Visit a museum of your choice, such as the American Museum of Natural History or the Metropolitan Museum of Art, before departing NYC.

Choose based on family interest. Allow travel time to Penn Station afterwards.

Train to Washington D.C.

Travel from New York City (Penn Station) to Washington D.

C. (Union Station) by Amtrak train. Enjoy the scenic journey.

Book Amtrak tickets in advance for better rates and availability. Grab lunch to go for the train.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up (D.C.)

Arrive at Union Station in D.

C., take a short ride to your hotel, check-in, and relax after the train journey.

National Air and Space Museum

Begin your D.

C. exploration with a visit to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, home to iconic aircraft and spacecraft.

Admission to Smithsonian museums is free. Check operating hours, some close earlier.

Dinner in D.C.

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant near the National Mall or your hotel, offering a taste of D.

C.'s diverse culinary scene.

National Mall & Monuments Tour

Walk along the National Mall, visiting iconic monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument (exterior view), WWII Memorial, and Reflecting Pool.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Consider a private driving tour if walking is a concern for the family.

National Museum of American History

Explore the National Museum of American History, showcasing the country's social, political, cultural, and scientific history.

Admission is free. Check for special exhibits. Grab a quick lunch at the museum cafe.

Departure Preparation & Check-out

Return to your hotel, gather your belongings, and check out.

Head to the airport (DCA or IAD) or train station (Union Station) for your onward journey.