United States, North America
Boston in November
Quiet and cheaper. Thanksgiving is a natural fit, with Plymouth and its Pilgrim sites an hour away.
The straight answer
November is a quiet, good-value month to visit Boston. Quiet and cheaper. Thanksgiving is a natural fit, with Plymouth and its Pilgrim sites an hour away.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 52F (11C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What November is like in Boston
November is cool and quiet. Highs drop to about 52F (11C), the last leaves fall early in the month, and the days get short. Crowds thin out after October, and hotel rates fall with them. Harbor Islands ferries have stopped for the season, but museums, restaurants, and historic sites all run as usual.
This month suits history lovers, museum fans, and families planning a Thanksgiving trip. It is less appealing for anyone who wants long, warm days outdoors. For peak color, you are too late, so aim for October, and for mild weather, choose June or September.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Boston this month.
Thanksgiving and the Pilgrims
Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday of November, and Plymouth and its Pilgrim sites are about an hour away. It is a natural fit for families.
Lexington and Concord
Quiet fall days are a good time to visit the Revolutionary battle sites outside the city without summer crowds.
Lower rates after the peak
Hotels drop from their October highs, so a central stay costs much less.
What to pack for November
- A warm jacket
- A hat and gloves for cold evenings
- Waterproof shoes for rainy days
- Layers for heated museums
Our timing tip
Book early November for the best rates, and reserve Thanksgiving week rooms and restaurant tables well ahead.
Book Boston for November.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in BostonOpens a hotel search for Boston in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in BostonWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in BostonTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Boston for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Boston
The Freedom Trail
Start early at Boston Common and follow the red line. Ranger and costumed guide tours run in season.
Fenway Park
A Red Sox game from April through September, or a ballpark tour year-round.
Museum of Fine Arts
One of the largest art museums in the US. Plan a half day.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
A Venetian palace courtyard filled with art, and the site of a famous unsolved art heist.
Boston National Historical Park
Faneuil Hall, the Old North Church area, Bunker Hill, and the Charlestown Navy Yard.
USS Constitution Museum
Old Ironsides and the museum in Charlestown. Great for kids.
Beat the crowds
- Check college graduation and move-in dates before booking. Those weekends can double hotel rates.
- Walk the Freedom Trail before 10am in summer and fall.
- Stay in Cambridge or Brookline near the T for lower rates than the Back Bay.
- For foliage, go midweek. Weekend traffic to New Hampshire and Vermont is heavy in October.
Know before you go
- Boston Harbor Islands ferries run seasonally, roughly May through October.
- Nor'easters can cancel flights and slow the T for a day or two in winter.
- Patriots' Day closes streets along the Marathon route and some businesses keep holiday hours.
Boston in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Boston?
November is a quiet, good-value month to visit Boston. Quiet and cheaper. Thanksgiving is a natural fit, with Plymouth and its Pilgrim sites an hour away.
What is the weather like in Boston in November?
Cool, highs near 52F (11C).
Is Boston crowded in November?
November is one of the quieter months in Boston; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Boston.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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