killington mountain skiing
Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock
Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock

The best things to do in Boston in January

Cool ideas for things to do in Boston in January, from museums to travel and more.

Jacqueline Cain
Advertising

New year, new you? Whether you want to get outside more this winter, partake in the best indoor activities or get out of town, there's plenty to do around Boston. Yes, even if we get more snow this winter! From the cultural to the culinary, we have some ideas for the best things to do in January in Boston.

RECOMMENDED: The 50 best things to do in Boston

Time Out Market Boston

Alongside the usual major lineup of food vendorssatisfying comfort food and seasonal cocktails, there are new new mocktails to try and a January Cocktail for a CauseBut just like on our website, showcasing the best of the city under one roof goes beyond food and drink. Time Out Market Boston also hosts frequent events like pop-up markets, drag brunch, DJ nights and more. Here's an updated list about what's going on this month.

Featured Boston events in January 2025

  • Museums
  • Downtown

Starting Sunday, Jan. 5, Boston families can get into some of the city's top museums for free on Boston Family Days. The new initiative from the City of Boston opens nine institutions—Boston Children’s MuseumInstitute of Contemporary ArtMuseum of Fine ArtsMuseum of ScienceNew England AquariumFranklin Park ZooMuseum of African American HistoryJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museumto local students, plus two guests per child, on the first and second Sunday of each month until the end of 2026. The program is open to K–12 students who live in Boston as well as Boston Pre-K kids. Before inviting the whole fam, check with your destination to see if you should pre-register—popular spots like the Children's Museum and Aquarium recommend it.

  • Things to do
  • Somerville

Moki, a Massachusetts wellness company inspired by Nordic experiences, is bringing its urban sauna and cold plunge experience to Somernova in Somerville, a development home to Aeronaut Brewing CompanyBoston Bouldering Project, Carolicious Venuzuelan Arepas, brand-new dumpling house Mimi's Chuka Diner and other businesses. Here's how it works: Plan for about two hours, and book a $60 session to experience full use of the wood-fired sauna, cedar-barrel cold plunge tub and fire pits. Bring a swimsuit or other light, comfortable clothing; Moki supplies towels, slippers, lockers, changing areas and rinsing stations (robes are available for a small additional fee). One-hour fast passes, 10-packs, monthly memberships and gift cards are also available.

Advertising
  • Things to do

Though twinkling lights would probably brighten spirits all winter long, it's customary to take them down in the new year. So this weekend would be a good one to consult our guide to the best light displays locally and go for one final sparkling spin. Winterlights from the Trustees of Reservations ends on Saturday, and ZooLights at the Stone Zoo ends on Sunday. Some light displays extend the season, such as Winter Fest in Charlestown (closed this weekend, but open on weekends through January 20) and Hatchlings on the Greenway (lit all day and nightly until 11pm through February 24).

  • Things to do
  • Ice skating

This weekend is will be brisk, but if you clutch a hot drink with your mittens, it can be charming. One of the best winter activities—which isn't dependent on snow—is hitting an ice rink. Boston and the surrounding area has no shortage of rinks fit for all levels, but none are as iconic as the Boston Common Frog Pond. Situated on the oldest public park in America, the rink hosts a steady, multigenerational throng of newbies and aspiring Kristi Yamaguchis alike. (Those who prefer to stay on non-slippery ground can snuggle up beside the snack bar with a hot chocolate and free Wi-Fi.) Just be sure to bundle up—a wait is inevitable.

Advertising
  • Things to do
  • Markets and fairs
  • Seaport District

The holiday festivities at Snowport have ended for the season, but the Seaport winter wonderland's iceless curling rink is up through February. Dress for the weather and head to Harbor Way for free outdoor fun—no curling experience is required. Reserve a lane for up to eight people for half-hour games. Curling at Snowport is open weeknights and all day on weekends.

  • Things to do

It's time to hit the slopes. Winter is here and it is not going anywhere for a while. So, get out there and enjoy the best part of living in New England, getting out on a beautiful mountain, not too far from Boston and get a little exercise and feel the wind in your googles! Skiing has to be the best cure for the winter blues!

https://media.timeout.com/images/105910510/image.jpg
JQ Louise
Former Editor of Time Out Boston
Recommended
    You may also like
    You may also like
    Advertising