Things to Do

Here are 12 fun ways to enjoy summer weather right now

We rounded up some ideas for enjoying the summer weather right now — rain or shine.

More than 400 children from youth development and community groups from across Boston took part in the Save The Harbor’s annual Youth Beach Bash and Splash at Constitution Beach in 2023. John Tlumacki/Globe Staff

By Nia Harmon

We rounded up a dozen ways to enjoy the summer weather — whether you prefer to soak up the sun or take a break inside.

Go indoors on a hot or rainy day 🌧️ 

Avoid the gloomy weather with a variety of things to do in Boston on a rainy day like rock climbing, visiting the New England Aquarium, or spending a day at a museum. 

Watch a new movie 🍿

Stop by one of readers’ favorite movie theaters in Boston to see some of the newest releases, like “Inside Out 2” or plan ahead for “The Instigators” set to release on Aug. 2. If you prefer to stay inside your own air-conditioned palace, catch the latest releases to Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, Paramount+, Apple TV+, and Peacock. 

Treat yourself to ice cream🍦

Stay cool with a scoop of honeycomb at Van Leeuwen in Chestnut Hill, one Boston’s newest shops, a late-night Fribble from Friendly’s, or head to one of readers’ favorite ice cream shops around the region.

Go for a hole-in-one at mini golf ⛳

Enjoy this classic summer activity at one of these 12 reader-recommended mini golf courses around Massachusetts. 

Dine out at a new restaurant 🍽️

Prepare your appetite and make a reservation at one of the latest restaurant openings in and around Boston. Looking for patio seating? Enjoy a bite from one of the many restaurants offering outdoor dining.

Find a pool or splash pad 💦

Make a splash in one of these public pools open for the season around Boston and stay cool in the summer heat.

Hit the beach 🏖️

Visit one of the beautiful beaches Massachusetts has to offer from a reader-favorite in Ipswich or a top ranked beach on Cape Cod.

Picnic at a park or green space 🌳 

Take advantage of picnic season with a scenic view at one of the region’s best parks or green spaces — whether it be a day trip to Adams Farm or a ferry ride to a Boston Harbor Island. 

Rock out at a live concert 🎸 

Enjoy performances from big artists in small places, stellar acts at top venues, and even free outdoor shows like Playhouse in the Park and Boston Jazz Fest in the Seaport.

Go for a ride at an amusement or water park 🎢

Keep your thrills going this summer with a visit to an amusement or water park around New England.

Dive into New England seafood 🦞

What would a New England summer be without seafood? Get your hands on a lobster roll, available at varying price points. Or find a $1 oyster deal every day of the week in Boston. 

Go to a cool event this weekend 🎟️

Your weekend plans are waiting for you with Boston JerkFest, Brew at the Zoo, and more fun events in our BosTen weekly guide.

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