Boston Date Ideas

One of the finest concert halls in the world and home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra since 1900. The acoustics are legendary -- it was one of the first halls designed using scientific acoustic principles. BSO season runs October through April, with Boston Pops taking over in spring and summer. Tickets range from $30 for rush seats to $150+ for prime orchestra seating.

Historic 1,200-seat theater in the Theater District hosting stand-up comedy, live music, and special events. Built in 1914, the intimate venue has hosted everyone from Dave Chappelle to John Mulaney. Ticket prices vary widely by performer -- expect $30-80 for most comedy shows, with bigger names commanding $60-150+.

Boston's premier improv and sketch comedy theater in the heart of the North End. The mainstage show is a mix of scripted sketches and audience-interactive improv that runs about 90 minutes. College students can get $20 tickets with valid ID at the box office on show day. Regular tickets run $48-71. Shows Thursday through Sunday with late shows on weekends.

One of the largest art museums in the country with over 500,000 works spanning ancient Egyptian to contemporary. Highlights include the Art of the Americas wing, Japanese garden, and Impressionist galleries. Adults $30, youth 7-17 $14, under 6 free. Pay-what-you-wish ($5 minimum) on the third Thursday of each month after 5pm.

Striking waterfront museum in the Seaport with a cantilevered design overlooking Boston Harbor. Features rotating contemporary art exhibitions, performance art, and film screenings. Adults $20, students $15, seniors $17, under 18 free. Free admission every Thursday 5-9pm (advance reservation recommended). The museum shop and harbor-view cafe are worth a visit on their own.

300-seat comedy club in the Seaport District featuring nationally touring stand-up comedians. Located in the lobby level of the Westin Hotel at the corner of Summer and D streets. Hosts both headliner weekends and local showcase nights. Tickets typically $20-45 depending on the performer. Full bar available. Group rates for parties of 20+.

5,000-capacity concert venue adjacent to Fenway Park that opened in 2022. Hosts major touring acts across rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. The multi-level venue has excellent sightlines from most seats. Ticket prices vary by artist -- expect $40-120 for most shows. Located right on Lansdowne Street, making it easy to combine with Fenway-area bars and restaurants.

Legendary 933-capacity rock club on Comm Ave that has been a launchpad for bands since 1977. U2, The Police, and Radiohead all played early shows here. Now hosts indie rock, punk, electronic, and hip-hop acts. Standing room with a balcony for a better view. Tickets typically $20-50 for most shows. The quintessential Boston music venue.

Irish pub right next to Fenway Park that doubles as a comedy venue on Wednesday and Friday nights. Live stand-up comedy shows with local and touring comics. The comedy shows are a low-cost alternative to the bigger clubs -- typically $10-20 cover. Also a solid spot for pre-game drinks and live music on other nights. Full food menu available.

2,500-capacity music venue on Lansdowne Street hosting national touring acts across all genres. Part of the Live Nation-owned House of Blues chain but retains a distinct atmosphere with its Southern-inspired decor and gospel brunch on Sundays. Tickets typically $30-80. Standing general admission floor with a seated balcony. Restaurant and bar open before shows.

Comedy night series at The Dugout Cafe near BU featuring stand-up, roasts, and open mic nights. A more underground, casual comedy experience compared to the polished clubs. Cover is usually $5-15, making it one of the cheapest comedy options in the city. Popular with the BU and college crowd. Check their social media for the weekly lineup.

Upscale bowling alley, arcade, and entertainment complex near Fenway Park. Features bowling lanes, billiards, arcade games, and a full bar and restaurant. Bowling runs $7-12 per person per game depending on time and day. A good group activity option before or after a game, or as a standalone night out. 21+ after 8pm on weekends.