Are you planning a trip to Boston? If so, you'll want to know what kind of weather to expect. Boston has a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the low 80s Fahrenheit. Winters are cold and snowy, with average low temperatures in the mid-20s Fahrenheit. Spring and fall are mild, with average temperatures in the mid-50s Fahrenheit.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at Boston's temperature by month, so you can plan your visit accordingly. We'll also provide some tips for packing and dressing for the weather in Boston.
Now that you have a general idea of what to expect from Boston's weather, let's take a closer look at the temperature by month.
Boston Temperature by Month
Here are eight important points about Boston's temperature by month:
- January: Cold and snowy
- February: Coldest month
- March: Starts to warm up
- April: Spring arrives
- May: Mild and pleasant
- June: Warm and humid
- July: Hottest month
- August: Warm and sunny
Keep in mind that these are just average temperatures, and the actual weather can vary from year to year.
January: Cold and snowy
January is the coldest month in Boston, with average low temperatures in the mid-20s Fahrenheit. It's also the snowiest month, with an average of 10.7 inches of snowfall. So, if you're planning a trip to Boston in January, be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes and boots.
- Bundle up: Dress in layers and wear a warm coat, hat, gloves, and scarf.
- Be prepared for snow: Wear boots with good traction and be careful walking on icy sidewalks.
- Take advantage of winter activities: Go sledding, ice skating, or skiing. Or, visit one of Boston's many museums or indoor attractions.
- Stay safe: Be aware of the wind chill and take breaks from the cold if you're spending extended time outdoors.
January can be a great time to visit Boston, as there are fewer tourists and many attractions offer discounts. Just be sure to come prepared for the cold weather.
February: Coldest month
February is the coldest month in Boston, with average low temperatures in the low 20s Fahrenheit. It's also the windiest month, with an average wind speed of 12.5 mph. So, if you're planning a trip to Boston in February, be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes and layers.
Here are some tips for staying warm in Boston in February:
- Dress in layers: Wear a base layer of warm clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt or turtleneck, followed by a sweater or sweatshirt. Top it off with a warm coat or parka.
- Cover your head, hands, and feet: Wear a hat, gloves, and scarf to protect yourself from the cold wind. And be sure to wear boots with good traction to prevent slipping on icy sidewalks.
- Take breaks from the cold: If you're spending extended time outdoors, take breaks to warm up inside. Visit a museum, go shopping, or grab a cup of coffee at a cozy café.
- Be aware of the wind chill: The wind chill can make the temperature feel much colder than it actually is. So, be sure to check the wind chill forecast before you go outside.
Even though February is the coldest month in Boston, there are still plenty of things to see and do. You can visit the city's many museums and historical sites, or take a walk through one of Boston's beautiful parks. And, if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
March: Starts to warm up
March is a transitional month in Boston, as the weather starts to warm up after a long winter. Average high temperatures rise into the mid-40s Fahrenheit, and average low temperatures are in the mid-20s Fahrenheit. There is still a chance of snow in March, but it is less likely than in January and February.
- Dress in layers: The weather in March can be unpredictable, so it's best to dress in layers so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
- Bring a raincoat or umbrella: March is a wet month in Boston, so be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella in case of rain or snow.
- Enjoy the outdoors: As the weather starts to warm up, it's a great time to get outdoors and explore Boston's many parks and green spaces.
- Celebrate St. Patrick's Day: Boston is home to a large Irish population, and St. Patrick's Day is a big celebration in the city. There are parades, festivals, and other events throughout the month of March.
March is a great time to visit Boston, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months. You can enjoy all that the city has to offer without the crowds.
April: Spring arrives
April is a beautiful time to visit Boston, as the city comes alive with the arrival of spring. Average high temperatures rise into the mid-50s Fahrenheit, and average low temperatures are in the mid-30s Fahrenheit. The days are getting longer and the flowers are starting to bloom.
Here are some things to do in Boston in April:
- Visit the Public Garden: The Public Garden is one of Boston's most beautiful parks, and it's especially stunning in April when the tulips are in bloom.
- Take a walk along the Charles River Esplanade: The Esplanade is a scenic walkway that runs along the Charles River. It's a great place to go for a walk, run, or bike ride.
- Visit the Arnold Arboretum: The Arnold Arboretum is a 281-acre park that features a collection of trees and shrubs from around the world. It's a great place to learn about botany and enjoy the outdoors.
- See a Red Sox game: The Red Sox are Boston's beloved baseball team, and April is a great time to catch a game at Fenway Park.
April is also a great time to visit Boston's many museums and historical sites. The weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months, so you can enjoy all that the city has to offer without the crowds.
May: Mild and pleasant
May is a delightful month to visit Boston, as the weather is mild and pleasant. Average high temperatures are in the low 70s Fahrenheit, and average low temperatures are in the mid-40s Fahrenheit. The days are getting longer and the humidity is relatively low, making it a great time to enjoy the outdoors.
- Explore Boston's neighborhoods: Boston is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Take some time to explore some of the city's most popular neighborhoods, such as Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the North End.
- Visit the Freedom Trail: The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking trail that takes you to some of Boston's most important historical sites. You'll see the Boston Common, the State House, and the Old North Church, among other landmarks.
- Take a harbor cruise: Boston is a coastal city, and there are many different ways to enjoy the harbor. You can take a ferry to one of the islands in the harbor, or take a cruise that offers stunning views of the city skyline.
- Enjoy a picnic in the park: Boston has many beautiful parks, perfect for a picnic lunch. Pack a lunch and head to the Public Garden, the Boston Common, or the Arnold Arboretum.
May is also a great time to visit Boston's many museums and cultural attractions. The weather is perfect for walking around the city and exploring all that it has to offer.
June: Warm and humid
June is a warm and humid month in Boston, with average high temperatures in the low 80s Fahrenheit and average low temperatures in the mid-60s Fahrenheit. The humidity can make it feel even hotter, so it's important to stay hydrated and wear loose, lightweight clothing.
Here are some things to do in Boston in June:
- Visit the Boston Public Library: The Boston Public Library is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It's a great place to cool off on a hot day and browse the collection of over 23 million books.
- Take a walk through the Boston Common: The Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States. It's a great place to relax, have a picnic, or go for a walk.
- See a concert at the Hatch Shell: The Hatch Shell is an outdoor amphitheater located on the Charles River Esplanade. It's a great place to see a concert on a warm summer night.
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts: The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the United States. It has a collection of over 450,000 works of art from around the world.
June is also a great time to enjoy Boston's many outdoor activities. You can go swimming, kayaking, or fishing in the Charles River. Or, you can take a walk or bike ride along the Esplanade.
July: Hottest month
July is the hottest month in Boston, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit and average low temperatures in the mid-60s Fahrenheit. The humidity can make it feel even hotter, so it's important to stay hydrated and wear loose, lightweight clothing.
- Visit the beaches: Boston has several beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand. Some of the most popular beaches include Carson Beach, Revere Beach, and Nantasket Beach.
- Take a walk or bike ride along the Charles River Esplanade: The Esplanade is a scenic walkway and bike path that runs along the Charles River. It's a great place to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.
- See a Red Sox game at Fenway Park: Fenway Park is one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the world. It's a great place to catch a Red Sox game on a hot summer night.
- Visit the Museum of Science: The Museum of Science is a great place to learn about science and technology. It has a variety of exhibits, including a planetarium, a dinosaur exhibit, and a live animal exhibit.
July is also a great time to enjoy Boston's many festivals and events. The Boston Harborfest is a week-long festival that features concerts, fireworks, and other activities. The Boston Book Festival is a four-day festival that celebrates literature and writing.
August: Warm and sunny
August is a warm and sunny month in Boston, with average high temperatures in the low 80s Fahrenheit and average low temperatures in the mid-60s Fahrenheit. The humidity is typically lower than in July, making it a more comfortable time to visit the city.
Here are some things to do in Boston in August:
- Visit the North End: The North End is Boston's Little Italy, and it's a great place to find delicious Italian food. You can also visit the Old North Church, which is where the signal lanterns were hung to warn Paul Revere of the British invasion.
- Take a whale watching tour: Boston is a great place to go whale watching. There are several companies that offer whale watching tours, and you're likely to see humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins.
- Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is a museum that tells the story of the Boston Tea Party. You can even board one of the replica tea ships and learn about the events leading up to the Tea Party.
- Enjoy a concert at the Blue Hills Bank Pavilion: The Blue Hills Bank Pavilion is an outdoor amphitheater located on the waterfront. It's a great place to see a concert on a warm summer night.
August is also a great time to enjoy Boston's many parks and green spaces. You can go for a walk, run, or bike ride in the Boston Common or the Public Garden. Or, you can take a ferry to one of the islands in the Boston Harbor, such as Spectacle Island or Georges Island.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Boston's weather by month:
Question 1: What is the coldest month in Boston?
Answer 1: January is the coldest month in Boston, with average low temperatures in the mid-20s Fahrenheit.
Question 2: What is the hottest month in Boston?
Answer 2: July is the hottest month in Boston, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit.
Question 3: When is the best time to visit Boston?
Answer 3: The best time to visit Boston is in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Question 4: What should I pack for a trip to Boston?
Answer 4: Be sure to pack clothes for all types of weather, as the weather in Boston can be unpredictable. In the winter, pack warm clothes, including a coat, hat, gloves, and scarf. In the summer, pack light, comfortable clothing and a raincoat.
Question 5: What are some things to do in Boston in the summer?
Answer 5: There are many things to do in Boston in the summer, including visiting the beaches, taking a whale watching tour, or enjoying a concert at the Blue Hills Bank Pavilion.
Question 6: What are some things to do in Boston in the winter?
Answer 6: There are also many things to do in Boston in the winter, such as visiting the city's many museums, ice skating on the Frog Pond, or taking a walk through the Boston Common.
Question 7: How can I get around Boston?
Answer 7: Boston has a public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. You can also get around the city by taxi or ride-sharing service.
Question 8: Where can I find more information about Boston?
Answer 8: You can find more information about Boston on the city's official website or on the website of the Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau.
We hope this FAQ has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.
Now that you know more about Boston's weather by month, you can start planning your trip. Be sure to pack accordingly and allow plenty of time to explore all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Tips
Here are some tips for planning your trip to Boston by month:
Tip 1: Check the weather forecast before you pack. The weather in Boston can be unpredictable, so it's important to check the forecast before you pack your bags. This will help you make sure that you have the right clothes for the weather conditions.
Tip 2: Pack layers. The weather in Boston can change quickly, so it's a good idea to pack layers of clothing that you can easily add or remove as needed. This will help you stay comfortable no matter what the weather is like.
Tip 3: Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking in Boston, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes. Avoid wearing new shoes that haven't been broken in, as this can lead to blisters.
Tip 4: Take advantage of free activities. There are many free activities to enjoy in Boston, such as visiting the Boston Public Library, walking through the Boston Common, and taking a ferry to one of the islands in the Boston Harbor. This is a great way to save money and still have a great time.
We hope these tips have been helpful. By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip to Boston, no matter what time of year you visit.
Boston is a beautiful city with something to offer everyone. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just enjoying the outdoors, you're sure to find something to love in Boston.
Conclusion
Boston is a city with four distinct seasons, each with its own unique charm. In the winter, the city is covered in a blanket of snow and the streets are lined with festive holiday decorations. In the spring, the flowers bloom and the city comes alive with activity. In the summer, the weather is perfect for enjoying the city's many outdoor attractions, such as the beaches, parks, and harbor islands. And in the fall, the leaves change color and the city takes on a beautiful new look.
No matter what time of year you visit, you're sure to find something to love in Boston. The city is home to world-class museums, historical sites, and cultural attractions. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, from walking and biking to sailing and kayaking.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Boston today!