Hidden Gems of Castle Hil Guided Nature Walk: Roundtrip Transportation from Boston Included!

Discover the Hidden Gems of Castle Hill and Beyond | The Details Come explore the lesser-visited corners of Castle Hill and its surroundings with us. This hike is a CraneOutdoors guide favorite because it’s got a little bit of all the things that make the Crane Estate such a special place!<ul><li>A stroll along the spine of Castle Hill, starting at the Barn Complex and working our way to the Great House, down the famous Grand Allée, and ending at Steep Hill with far-reaching views of Ipswich Bay, Plum Island, and the New England coastline all the way into Maine.</li><li>A walk along the Crane Estate’s less visited, but-no-less-beautiful “other” seashore (Steep Hill Beach) where it’s not uncommon to see waterfowl visitors from the arctic-like Common Eider, Black and White Winged Scooters, and the spectacular Long-Tailed Duck</li><li>A hike through the dunes with spectacular views of the saltmarsh surrounding Fox Creek</li><li>A visit to the newly renovated Rose Garden and the beautiful Italian Garden</li></ul>This hike brings us through historically built landscapes, past sweeping views of Castle Neck and the Great Marsh, and through quiet woodland trails. This one truly has it all. Optional Add-On:&nbsp;Guest of The Crane’s guided Estate Tour (can be added during check out). What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend commuter rail pass</li><li>Transportation to/from the station</li><li>Certified CraneOutdoor's guide</li><li>Time on your own to explore</li></ul>Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL10&nbsp;at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! Visit our website listed to the left to book your weekend adventure today!

Crane Estate

From Hive to Glass: Local Meadery Tour & Wine Tasting

Explore the Art of Mead-Making at Honeybound Meadery: A Journey Through History, Beekeeping, and Flavor Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL10&nbsp;at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! What is Mead? Mead is a form of wine made by fermenting honey with water, often flavored with fruits, spices, or herbs. This ancient drink offers a sweet, dry, or semi-sweet taste experience. Join Keolis massAdventures on a journey through history, craftsmanship, and flavor at The Colony, home to Honeybound Meadery in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts. Located on the last parcel of the original Thompson Farm, this unique facility is the heart of a 300-year-old agricultural tradition. Once a thriving dairy farm, The Colony now celebrates honeybees and the art of mead-making under the stewardship of Rick and Sue Reault, who founded the meadery in 2019. Your experience begins with a guided tour of this one-of-a-kind beekeeping and mead-making facility. Led by founder and beekeeper/mazer Rick Reault, you’ll explore the fascinating journey of honey — from hive to bottle. Learn the ancient art of mead-making and how Honeybound Meadery transforms pure, raw honey into this golden, fermented beverage beloved for centuries. The tour concludes with a tasting session of Honeybound's exquisite meads, paired perfectly with a curated charcuterie board. Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper, a honey enthusiast, or simply curious about the oldest alcoholic beverage known to humanity, this tour offers a delightful and enriching experience. Don’t miss this chance to taste tradition and innovation in a single sip at Honeybound Meadery! Note: If you have any dietary restrictions, please advise us at the time of booking. Whats Included:<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass</li><li>Private transportation to/from the station</li><li>45min guided tour of the meadery</li><li>Mead tasting paired with cheese and charcuturie</li></ul>

Honeybound Meadery

Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL10&nbsp;at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! Discover the Hidden Gems of Castle Hill and Beyond | The Details Come explore the lesser-visited corners of Castle Hill and its surroundings with us. This hike is a CraneOutdoors guide favorite because it’s got a little bit of all the things that make the Crane Estate such a special place!<ul><li>A stroll along the spine of Castle Hill, starting at the Barn Complex and working our way to the Great House, down the famous Grand Allée, and ending at Steep Hill with far-reaching views of Ipswich Bay, Plum Island, and the New England coastline all the way into Maine.</li><li>A walk along the Crane Estate’s less visited, but-no-less-beautiful “other” seashore (Steep Hill Beach) where it’s not uncommon to see waterfowl visitors from the arctic-like Common Eider, Black and White Winged Scooters, and the spectacular Long-Tailed Duck</li><li>A hike through the dunes with spectacular views of the saltmarsh surrounding Fox Creek</li><li>A visit to the newly renovated Rose Garden and the beautiful Italian Garden</li></ul>This hike brings us through historically built landscapes, past sweeping views of Castle Neck and the Great Marsh, and through quiet woodland trails. This one truly has it all. Optional Add-On:&nbsp;Guest of The Crane’s guided Estate Tour (can be added during check out). What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend commuter rail pass</li><li>Transportation to/from the station</li><li>Certified CraneOutdoor's guide</li><li>Time on your own to explore</li></ul>Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL10&nbsp;at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! Visit our website listed to the left to book your weekend adventure today!

A Day at Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House Guided Tour w/ Transportation from Boston

Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL10&nbsp;at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! Step into the World of “Little Women” and Explore the Legacy of One of America’s Most Beloved Authors! Join Keolis massAdventures for an enchanting day in Concord, Massachusetts, at the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House, the cherished home where Alcott wrote her iconic novel. Nestled in the heart of literary history, this National Historic Landmark offers a glimpse into the lives of the Alcott family and the inspirations behind “Little Women.” Your journey begins with a ride aboard the Commuter Rail, followed by private, chartered transportation to the Orchard House. During your 45-minute guided tour, you’ll walk through preserved rooms filled with original family furnishings, personal artifacts, and stories that bring the 19th century to life. Marvel at the simplicity and charm of the space that fostered Alcott’s creativity. After the tour, enjoy free time exploring the grounds or wandering through downtown Concord before meeting the bus back at the Orchard Home to head back to Boston. If you’d like to stay in Concord longer to explore, grab lunch, or visit more sites feel free to reach out to us and we can suggest a later train home. This day trip offers a perfect blend of history, literature, and relaxation. Whether you’re a “Little Women” fan or a history enthusiast, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. What’s Included:<ul><li>Commuter rail pass</li><li>Transportation to/from the station</li><li>45-Minute guided tour of the home</li><li>Time on your own to explore the grounds</li></ul>What to Bring:<ul><li>Water</li><li>Snacks</li><li>Weather appropriate clothing</li></ul>Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL10&nbsp;at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar!

Louisa May Alcott Orchard house

Maple Sugaring Adventure at Natick Community Organic Farm w/ Transportation from Boston Included

Explore the Science, History, and Traditions of Maple Sugaring at Natick Community Organic Farm| The Details Join us at the Natick Community Organic Farm for an immersive journey into the science and history of maple sugaring! Gather around campfires to explore the traditional techniques of both Indigenous peoples and early Colonists as they transformed sap into maple sugar. Along the way, you’ll discover how to identify maple trees, learn about the qualities of sap and syrup, and see firsthand the process of tapping trees at outdoor displays. This unique tour includes four engaging stops:<ul><li>Maple Education Center: Begin with a hands-on introduction to maple tree identification, understanding sap flow, and the fascinating process that turns sap into syrup. Guides will explain how environmental factors affect sap production and give you an insider’s look into the science behind sugaring.</li><li>Native American Maple Museum: Dive into the rich history and cultural significance of maple sugaring through artifacts and stories that highlight the Indigenous origins of this timeless practice.</li><li>Colonial Campfire Demonstration: If the fires are lit, stop by and watch as cast-iron pots, like those used by early Colonists, are filled with sap for the boiling process. Experience how early settlers worked to create maple sugar over an open flame.</li><li>Sugar Shack Experience: Conclude the tour by stepping into the sugar shack, where staff will be actively boiling sap to produce rich, delicious maple syrup. Witness each step of the transformation and learn about modern vs. traditional methods of syrup-making.</li></ul>If time permits, there will be a chance to return to the museum for a closer look at its displays, or you can explore it at your leisure after the tour. Be sure to visit the farm shack before you leave to pick up the freshly tapped syrup and seasonal produce—perfect for taking a piece of this experience home with you!   *** CURRENTLY ON A WAITLIST, DUE TO THE SENSITIVE NATURE OF MAPLE SUGARING WE WON'T HAVE EXACT DATES AVAIALBLE UNTIL JANUARY 1ST. WE ANTICIPATE RUNNING THE TOUR FROM END OF JAN FOR SIX WEEKS. REGISTER FOR OUR WAITLIST TO BE THE FIRST TO KNOW WHEN DATES BECOME AVAILABLE BEFORE THE GENERAL PUBLIC*** What's Included:<ul><li>Weekend commuter rail pass</li><li>Transportation to/from the station</li><li>60-minute guided tour</li><li>30 minutes on your own to explore</li><li>Jar of Maple Syrup to bring home with every adult ticket purchase ($20 value)</li></ul>What to Bring:<ul><li>Warm clothes</li><li>Closed toe shoes</li></ul>

Natick Community Organic Farm

Galentine's Day Special:  Local Meadery Tour & Wine Tasting

Explore the Art of Mead-Making at Honeybound Meadery: A Journey Through History, Beekeeping, and Flavor Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL10&nbsp;at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! What is Mead? Mead is a form of wine made by fermenting honey with water, often flavored with fruits, spices, or herbs. This ancient drink offers a sweet, dry, or semi-sweet taste experience. Join Keolis massAdventures on a journey through history, craftsmanship, and flavor at The Colony, home to Honeybound Meadery in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts. Located on the last parcel of the original Thompson Farm, this unique facility is the heart of a 300-year-old agricultural tradition. Once a thriving dairy farm, The Colony now celebrates honeybees and the art of mead-making( Honey Wine) under the stewardship of Rick and Sue Reault, who founded the meadery in 2019. Your experience begins with a guided tour of this one-of-a-kind beekeeping and mead-making facility. Led by founder and beekeeper/mazer Rick Reault, you’ll explore the fascinating journey of honey — from hive to bottle. Learn the ancient art of mead-making and how Honeybound Meadery transforms pure, raw honey into this golden, fermented beverage beloved for centuries. The tour concludes with a tasting session of Honeybound's exquisite meads, paired perfectly with a curated charcuterie board. Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper, a honey enthusiast, or simply curious about the oldest alcoholic beverage known to humanity, this tour offers a delightful and enriching experience. Don’t miss this chance to taste tradition and innovation in a single sip at Honeybound Meadery! Note: If you have any dietary restrictions, please advise us at the time of booking. What's Included:<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass</li><li>Private transportation to/from the station</li><li>45min guided tour of the meadery</li><li>Mead tasting paired with cheese and charcuturie</li><li>Special Gift from a Local Chocolate Maker to Take Home</li></ul>

A Colorful Christmas at Castle Hill with Transportation from Boston Included!

Use code: BOSCAL10 at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! Experience a Colorful Holiday at Castle Hill: November 29- December 29th  Visiting Castle Hill at Christmas is a time-honored tradition. Don’t miss this year’s festival of color. Each room in our 1920s mansion is decorated with a different vibrant color scheme. Enjoy freshly baked cookies and hot chocolate, try the Crane holiday eye spy, and shop in the Castle Hill Gift Shop during your visit. What's Included<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass</li><li>Last mile transportation via private van</li><li>Entry to A Color Holiday at Castle Hill Holiday Event</li><li>Time on your own to explore the grounds</li></ul>

Deck the Halls at  Hammond Castle Museum- Car Free w/ transportation from Boston included!

Use code: BOSCAL10 at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! Skip the traffic and hassle of getting to Gloucester and explore the enchanting Hammond Castle Museum with massAdventures! this tour is at your own pace with a self-guided tour through its stunning galleries. The museum’s comprehensive booklet provides in-depth information about the castle’s history and inhabitants, alongside a suggested route. Nestled on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this European-style castle was constructed in the late 1920s by the visionary scientist and inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr. His extensive travels and passion for ancient, medieval, and Renaissance art are evident throughout the castle, which features architectural elements from the Old World and innovative technological applications. Highlights include the majestic courtyard with its tropical plants and concealed pool, and the impressive pipe organ, one of the world’s largest, with 8,400 pipes and revolutionary features. Hammond Castle has served as a set for TV shows and films and continues to attract thousands of visitors each year. Now in its 48th season, the museum offers new exhibits, educational programs, and community events, aiming to become a leading STEM museum in Essex County. What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Ticket( Valid on all commuter rail lines Saturday &amp; Sunday)</li><li>Transportation to/from the Station</li><li>Entry fee into the museum</li><li>2 hours to explore at your own pace</li></ul>What to Bring<ul><li>Water</li><li>Snacks</li></ul>

Hammond Castle

 Snowy Owl Dune Trek: A Guided Wildlife Walk at Crane Estate- Last Tour of 2024!

Use code: BOSCAL10 at checkout for a special 10% savings just for Boston Calendar! Join us for a unique adventure through the scenic dunes of Castle Neck, where we’ll search for the elusive and magnificent Snowy Owl. Unlike most owls, Snowy Owls are diurnal—active both day and night—so we have a good chance of spotting one even in daylight. These wide-open coastal sites are a favorite wintering ground for the owls, with common perches on dunes and salt hay staddles. This four-mile hike may feel more rigorous due to the hilly terrain and sandy trails, but it’s worth the effort! Your CraneOutdoors guide will point out fascinating flora such as the Woolly Hudsonia, which blooms in late spring, the unique Earth Star mushroom, and the fragrant Bayberry—once used to make candles. Please bring binoculars, as we’ll be scanning distant dunes for Snowy Owls. Your guide will tailor the route based on weather conditions, but you can expect an unforgettable experience exploring one of the most dynamic ecosystems north of Cape Cod while learning about the area’s wildlife and plant life. This trek is perfect for nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fresh outdoor adventure in the winter landscape of the Crane Wildlife Refuge. What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass</li><li>Transportation to/from the station</li><li>Certified CraneOutdoor's guide</li><li>Time on your own to relax and explore</li></ul>

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Discover kid-friendly fun in Boston, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas! Enjoy hands-on exhibits at the Boston Children’s Museum, explore the New England Aquarium, and visit the Franklin Park Zoo. Find parks, playgrounds, and seasonal events perfect for families across Massachusetts.

Top 20 kid-friendly things to do in Boston, MA

Kid-friendly things to do in Boston

Kid-friendly events

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.