United States, North America
Boston in October
Peak foliage in the region, the Head of the Charles, and nearby Salem's Halloween crowds. The busiest and most expensive month.
The straight answer
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Boston. Peak foliage in the region, the Head of the Charles, and nearby Salem's Halloween crowds. The busiest and most expensive month.
- Weather
- Crisp, highs near 63F (17C), fall color
- Crowds
- 5 of 5
- Prices
- 5 of 5
What October is like in Boston
October is crisp and colorful. Highs sit near 63F (17C), the air is dry and cool, and peak fall color moves south to the Boston area by mid to late month. It is also the busiest and most expensive month of the year. Foliage visitors, the Head of the Charles Regatta, and Halloween crowds in nearby Salem all compete for hotel rooms.
This month suits leaf peepers, rowing fans, and families who plan and book early. It is a poor pick for budget travelers or anyone who dislikes crowds, especially on weekends. For similar weather with lower prices, September is the smarter choice.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Boston this month.
Peak fall foliage
Color peaks up north first, then reaches the Boston area by mid to late October. Drive north midweek to avoid heavy weekend traffic.
Head of the Charles Regatta
The world's largest two-day rowing event fills the riverbanks on a weekend in mid to late October. Watch from the bridges for free.
Salem at Halloween
Nearby Salem draws big crowds all month for its witch history and Halloween events. Go on a weekday and take the train.
What to pack for October
- A warm sweater and a light jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A hat and gloves for cold mornings
- A small daypack for foliage day trips
Our timing tip
Book hotels months ahead for October, drive north for color on a weekday, and visit Salem early in the month if you want smaller crowds.
Book Boston for October.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in BostonOpens a hotel search for Boston in October, 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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in October
Head of the Charles Regatta
A weekend in mid to late October
The world's largest two-day rowing event on the Charles River.
New England fall foliage
Late September to late October
Peak color moves south from northern New England to the Boston area by mid to late October.
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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Boston?
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Boston. Peak foliage in the region, the Head of the Charles, and nearby Salem's Halloween crowds. The busiest and most expensive month.
What is the weather like in Boston in October?
Crisp, highs near 63F (17C), fall color.
Is Boston crowded in October?
October is peak crowd season in Boston; expect lines at the headline sights.
What is happening in Boston in October?
Head of the Charles Regatta (a weekend in mid to late october); New England fall foliage (late september to late october).
Keep planning Boston.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
Sponsored links. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Visit Faye
Travel insurance.
FayeA missed connection, a bag that never turns up, a hospital abroad: far cheaper to cover before departure than to argue about after.
- Visit Saily
eSIM data.
SailySet up an eSIM before you fly so your phone has data the moment you land, without roaming charges.
Our top-rated travel gear
Whatever you decide, this is the gear we actually travel with: verified, priced, and ranked. Live price check on each.
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.