There is a certain romance to Boston in the winter, its historic streets often dusted in snow and looking like something from a picture book. Nothing compares with being surrounded by interesting stories, breathtaking art, or mind-blowing scientific marvels when the cold air takes a bite.

We at The Whitney Hotel think a great winter day is spent warming up in a museum, appreciating art, science, and history, while leaving the chill and colder temperatures outside. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the best museums in Boston, highlighting some of the city’s most delightful museums and galleries—ideal retreats for warming your body and nourishing your mind this winter.

Boston’s Best Art Museums

From world-class art collections to interactive exhibits for any age, Boston’s cultural landscape offers many chances to escape the winter doldrums. 

• Museum of Fine Arts, Boston: One of the world’s great art museums filled with art from cultures all over the world throughout time.
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: Collections displayed in a distinctive Venetian-style palazzo include European, Asian and American works.
• Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), Boston: Museum showcasing and preserving contemporary art.
• Boston University Art Galleries: The gallery with several exhibits.
• BSA Space: Dedicated to architecture and design, operated by the Boston Society of Architects.

Exploring Science, Nature, and Education Museums in Boston

From top-flight observatories to houses with rare natural specimens, the city has a rich trove of educational museums devoted to exploring the physical world. You’re about to take an intellectual trip through some of the country’s most inspiring educational destinations.

• Museum of Science: Boasts hundreds of hands-on exhibits as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theatre.
• Boston Children’s Museum: One of the nation’s oldest children’s museums, offering interactive experiences.
• Russell Museum of Medical History and Innovation: Exhibits on the history of medicine.

Boston’s Best Historical Museums and Landmarks 

Boston is a time machine of US history; its streets and buildings tell the story not only of founding fathers and pilgrims, but also of pivotal moments in modern American society. Delving into the best history museums and landmarks around Boston is an unforgettable up-close of the forces that founded a country. 

• Museum of African American History: Houses the history and culture of New England’s African Americans, including spaces like the African Meeting House and Abiel Smith School.
• Old State House: A Freedom Trail site and the seat of the colonial government.
• The Paul Revere House: The former residence of the well-known American patriot.
• Old South Meeting House: A historic church and gathering place where colonists met to discuss British rule.
• John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum: Commemorating the life of America’s 35th President.
• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum: An interactive museum and re-enactment of the 1773 event that led to a revolution.
• USS Constitution Museum: Dedicated to the history of USS Constitution also known as “Old Ironsides”.
• William Hickling Prescott House: The home of the 19th-century historian is now a museum.
• Faneuil Hall: An historic marketplace and meeting hall commonly referred to as the “Cradle of Liberty.

Your Cozy Retreat Awaits at The Whitney Hotel

After a long day exploring museums, you’ll love coming home to the inviting warmth and refined comfort of The Whitney Hotel. Our boutique haven in Beacon Hill is the perfect place to escape, whether it’s lounging by the fireplace, indulging at dinner, or simply soaking up your lavish surroundings and letting everything from the day fade away. For an experience that blends exploration and relaxation, consider our Museum of Science Package, designed to make your cultural getaway even more inspiring. We’ll make sure your stay is as cozy, comfy, and noteworthy as the metropolis itself.

We hope this list helps you dream up your winter adventures. Boston’s museums and galleries are not mere buildings but gateways to knowledge, beauty, and wonder, an ideal plan for the winter chill.