How to make the most out of your layover in Boston

As locals will be more than happy to tell you, Boston is one of the United States' great cities. Steeped in the maritime history of New England, Boston has a long history of immigration, particularly from Ireland, which has given it a culture - and accent - all of its own. Plus, the area around the city is home to some of the world's greatest educational institutes, and the constant influx of students from around the world is part of what keeps the city young and vibrant, even with all its distinguished past.

Boston Logan Airport is one of the main airports in the eastern United States, so if you're traveling through the area, there's a good chance you may end up with a few hours to kill here. Luckily, downtown Boston isn't too far from Boston Airport, so if you don't feel like spending time in the airport lounges, you can think about heading into the city to sample at least some of what it has to offer. Leave your heavy bags behind with Bounce's Boston luggage storage network and go to the city to see what makes it so special.

Things to keep in mind before leaving Boston's Logan Airport

Visa requirements for the US

If you’re arriving from an international location, ensure that you meet U.S. entry requirements. For many travelers, a visa or ESTA is needed. Even if you're from a country that doesn't require a visa to visit the US - Canada, the UK, the EU, Australia, or New Zealand, for example - you may still need an ESTA, which is an electronic travel authorization that you need before entering the country. Boston’s Logan Airport has a well-organized international terminal, but allow extra time for security checks if you plan to leave the airport.

Minimum layover times in Boston

With its proximity to the city center and accessible transit options, Logan Airport is well-situated for a layover. Here’s a quick guide:

• In-airport short layover (2-3 hours): If your layover is brief, it’s best to stay at the airport. Logan has plenty of dining and shopping options to help pass the time before your connecting flight.
• Domestic flights (3-4 hours): With this amount of time, you can explore a nearby spot like East Boston’s waterfront or enjoy airport amenities before your next flight.
• International flights (6-8 hours): A long layover offers enough time to take public transit downtown, where you can enjoy a few historical sites along the Freedom Trail before heading back for security and customs.
• Overnight layover: For an overnight layover, consider booking a hotel near the airport or in the city center for easy access to downtown Boston’s attractions and restaurants.

Getting around Boston

Boston’s transit system makes it easy to reach the city center from the airport. The Silver Line bus provides free service from Logan’s terminals to South Station in downtown Boston. From there, you can connect to other subway lines. Another option is the Blue Line subway, which you can access by taking the free airport shuttle to Airport Station, connecting you directly to downtown in just minutes.

However you choose to get into the city, you'll find it a lot easier if you leave your heavy bags behind with a Bounce luggage storage location. We partner with local businesses to make it easy to find a place to leave your bags, whether at the airport or in the center of the city. That way, you can focus on enjoying yourself and pick up your things whenever it's convenient for you.

What to do in Boston during a Layover

With its compact layout, scenic waterfront, and iconic landmarks, Boston is a perfect city to explore on a layover. From historic sites to beautiful parks, there are plenty of things to do to pass the time.

Morning layover in Boston

If you have a morning layover, start with some fresh air and explore a few of Boston’s most famous historical sites.

• Activities: Begin with a stop at the Boston Public Garden, a beautiful spot where you can take a short walk among seasonal flowers and watch swan boats float on the water. From there, follow the Freedom Trail, a marked path that passes significant sites from the American Revolution. If you have time, visit Faneuil Hall, a historic marketplace and meeting hall that played a key role in the early days of American independence. It’s just a short walk from the garden and an excellent spot for a quick look into Boston’s revolutionary past. The Founding Fathers didn't carry heavy bags everywhere they went, and neither should you. Leave your belongings behind with Bounce while you explore the birthplace of America, and your bags will be safely looked after until you're ready to pick them up for your next flight.
• Breakfast spots: Stop at Tatte Bakery & Café near Beacon Hill for fresh pastries and coffee, or grab breakfast at Quincy Market, where you’ll find a variety of food options that locals and travelers love.

Afternoon layover in Boston

If you’re in Boston for an afternoon layover, the city’s waterfront, markets, and historic sites offer a variety of attractions to explore.

• Activities: Start with a visit to the Boston Harbor, where you can see the spot of the famous Boston Tea Party and enjoy views of the city skyline. From there, Quincy Market is nearby and offers plenty of shops, local food vendors, and a lively atmosphere. If you want to explore further, take a short walk to the nearby North End, Boston’s Italian neighborhood, where you can visit historical sites like Paul Revere’s House or the Old North Church.
• Lunch Spots: Enjoy lunch at Union Oyster House, one of the oldest restaurants in America, serving fresh seafood and New England classics. For a quick bite, Quincy Market has various stalls offering everything from lobster rolls to clam chowder.

Evening layover in Boston

An evening layover in Boston allows you to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife and scenic views as the lights come on over the city.

• Activities: Start the evening with a sunset stroll along Boston Harbor or visit the Institute of Contemporary Art on the waterfront if you’re interested in modern art. Then, make your way to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, where you’ll find street performers, shops, and plenty of restaurants to enjoy before heading back to the airport. The historic streets are beautifully lit at night, making for a scenic walk.
• Dinner spots: Try Legal Sea Foods at the Long Wharf for fresh seafood with a view, or head to the North End for Italian at Giacomo’s. Both options provide a delicious ending to a day spent in Boston. Don't ruin the restaurant ambiance by carrying more than you need to. Leave all your bags and suitcases behind with Bounce to make the most of your evening.

Overnight layover in Boston

If you have an overnight layover, Boston’s downtown hotels, dining, and cultural attractions make for a convenient and comfortable stay.

• Hotels: The Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor near the airport offers scenic views of the skyline, while the Marriott Long Wharf downtown places you close to top attractions. Both hotels offer easy access to the airport and city center.
• Night activities: For evening entertainment, check out the theater district or stop by a bar along Boston’s Seaport area for views of the harbor. If you’re interested in local history, consider a nighttime ghost tour of Boston’s historic sites for a fun twist on the city’s past.

Tips for making the most out of your Boston layover

Here are some practical tips for a smooth and enjoyable layover in Boston:

• Plan for security: Make sure to allow plenty of time to go through security when you return to Logan Airport, especially during peak travel hours.
• Transit options: The Silver Line bus offers free transportation from the airport to South Station, and the Blue Line subway provides a direct route from Airport Station to the city center.
• Currency and payment: The U.S. dollar (USD) is used in Boston, and credit cards are generally accepted everywhere.
• Dress comfortably: Boston is a walkable city, so wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the Freedom Trail or visit multiple sites.

Boston is a wonderful city to explore during a layover, offering everything from historic sites like the Freedom Trail to scenic spots along Boston Harbor. Grabbing lunch at Quincy Market, taking a short walk in the Boston Public Garden, or visiting Faneuil Hall will give you a feel for the city’s unique charm before your next flight. And with your bags safe in a Bounce luggage storage facility, it'll be one less thing you have to worry about as you explore the city for a few hours or even longer.