A Boston architectural landmark: The Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston by Diller Scofidio + Renfro Architects. Photo credit: Smart Destinations.

Lela wrote this guest post about free things to do in Boston. She is a writer for HostelBookers.

Boston is one of the most important historical cities in the United States. The famous Boston Tea Party really put the city on the international map, and its universities preserve its clout as a global mover. Travelers should know that despite Boston’s fame, you can find on HostelBookers.com a nice selection of cheap accommodation. Once settled in, head out on the town to check out these 5 free things to do in Boston:

Boston Public Library

If you’re a literary person, and you’re truly taken in by grandeur and elegance, then the Boston Public Library is the perfect place to visit. In addition to its beautiful, expansive construction skirting Copley Square, it is globally renowned for its collection. The library is more than just books, however. There you’ll find interactive multi-media, rare art and even noteworthy sculptures. It’s like one giant, living, modern and old museum at once.

MIT Building 10 and the Great Dome, Cambridge Massachusetts. Photo credit: John Phelan.

MIT or Harvard Campuses

As you’ll already been in the world’s greatest city of higher education, you should take advantage of it and visit two of the world’s leading institutions. Harvard University is set on a vast area and its old buildings bring to mind thoughts of older times. Make sure you head over there on Saturday morning to catch the art museums, which are only free then. Over in Cambridge you’ll find MIT’s campus an eclectic mix of architectural styles.

Public Gardens and the Boston Common

United States city parks owe their beginning to Boston’s green spaces, some of which were the first in the country. Boston Common just so happens to be the oldest around. The place is packed with the expected and unexpected. You’ll find ample bench space in the shade, and plenty of free activities in the summer months (which can range from concerts to theatrical performances). The Public Gardens hold the world-renowned Swan Boats, which you can enjoy onboard or off, perhaps snacking on the lawn. Fall is the best season to see the changing colors.

The Freedom Trail path in Boston. Photo credit: Ben Schumin.

Freedom Trail

The Boston Freedom Trail is one of Boston’s must-do activities. Give yourself a day to do it, as the trail will take you to 16 historical sites and all the beautiful places in between. America began there, and if history matters to you, you must learn about such places as the Old South Meeting House, Paul Revere’s House and Faneuil Hall. Be sure to snap plenty of photos of the USS Constitution.

Old North Church

Head to the North End to see how Italians made their mark and continue to make their mark on America’s first city. Italian immigrants made up one of the most important groups in the formation of American cities. The neighborhood, an attractive walk by itself, also boasts the North End Church, where Paul Revere placed the two lanterns to signal that the British were moving by sea.

Boston is filled with free things to do, so don’t let this list limit you. You still have to see Bunker Hill, the Massachusetts State House, the Custom House and New England Aquarium. And the list goes on!