In search of the best and fun things to do in Quincy? Quincy is Norfolk County’s largest city. It is in Massachusetts, United States.
Quincy is a harmonious city with quite some attractions and activities. The city has a rich history and culture that will interest anyone. It is the home to two United States Presidents, John Adams and John Quincy Adams.
Are you looking for what to do in Quincy, MA? There are plenty of historical landmarks, museums, libraries, open green spaces, historical parks, family-friendly locations, and more to explore in the city. No matter what your preferences are, this city has got you covered.
Let’s explore the best things to do in Quincy, MA.
Things to Do in Quincy, MA
1. Wollaston Beach
Wollaston Beach
Visiting the beach is a perfect way to enjoy any vacation, making visiting Wollaston Beach a must-add to your bucket list of top things to do in Quincy, MA.
Wollaston Beach features approximately 2.3 miles of shoreline, which makes it the most extensive open beach in the Boston Harbor.
Apart from the beautiful water of the beach and its serene sandy shore, this beach provides panoramic vistas of Boston, South, Keston, Hough’s Neck, Nut Island, and Squantum.
The promenade on the beach brims with activities, and the path is excellent for jogging. You can enjoy a stroll with your dogs. The beach is an exciting place to visit and should be a must-see.
Address: Wollaston Beach, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
2. Moswetuset Hummock
Moswetuset Hummock
Moswetuset Hummock is a small historical site in Quincy that you should visit, as you will enjoy every bit of the trip.
This historic site was once a home for the native Muswetoset people. It is situated at the edge of Quincy Bay and offers panoramic vistas that you will love to see.
History lovers will find this place fascinating, as it has a great history to share despite being a little site. There is plenty of gorgeous scenery to see while walking around the area.
Birdwatching is another excellent activity here, or you can finish up a book in the serene area next to the ponds or marshes.
Address: 435 East Squantum Street near the junction with Quincy Shore Drive, Quincy, MA 02171-1520, United States
3. Boston Harbor Islands National State Park & Recreational Area
Boston Harbor Islands National State Park & Recreational Area
Visiting the Boston Harbor Islands National State Park & Recreational Area is a perfect way to have a great time outdoors. It should be on your list of the best things to do in Quincy, MA.
Boston Harbor Islands National State Park and Recreational Area constitutes 34 Islands and peninsulas. It is a short distance away from downtown Boston.
To reach these islands, you must join a park ferry to enjoy its many opportunities, such as learning, relaxation, and outdoor fun. You can check their website for upcoming events and create your adventure using tour planning tools.
Boston Harbor Islands attracts myriads of visitors yearly. It is a prime attraction for locals and tourists and a significant ecological environment for native wildlife.
There are campsites, historical forts, beautiful picnic areas, lighthouses, spectacular Harbor views, and others to explore. You can choose from any of the islands and plan your trip.
Address: 191w Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109, United States
4. Quincy Quarries Reservation
Quincy Quarries Reservation
The Quincy Quarries Reservation is the birthplace of America’s large-scale granite quarrying industry. Stones from this quarry were used in erecting the Bunker Hill Monument, which is why it is popular.
The quarry, which is now inactive, is a well-known site for activities such as picnicking, rock climbing, and hiking. With its steep walls, climbers are tasked with overcoming a significant challenge. So if you want to do something physical, do well to stop by.
Quincy Quarries Reservation features some trails ideal for amateur hikers and several more challenging spots for professional hikers. There are areas for picnicking with plenty of spectacular views to see. The Reservation is ideal for spending time outdoors or enjoying a walk with your dog.
Address: Ricciuti Dr, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
5. Boston Fishing Charters
Suppose you want to enjoy the best fishing experience while on vacation in Quincy, MA, you should book a fishing trip with the Boston Fishing Charters. It is one of the fun things to do in Quincy, MA.
It doesn’t matter if you are well experienced or have little or no experience with fishing, as this fishing charter has professional guides that will give you the best experience while on water.
This establishment has a team of expert anglers with many years of fishing experience, and they are always open to answering any questions you might have about fishing.
Their boats are of the best quality and are perfectly built for North Atlantic Waters. Boston Fishing Charters offers inshore trips. You can see their webpage for better information on booking any fishing trips. Visitors can catch bluefish, striped bass, haddocks, tuna, flounders, and bluefish.
Their boats are fully equipped with every necessary gear for fishing, and you are allowed to bring drinks, food, and a camera to capture all of your memories as you enjoy the best saltwater fishing.
Address: 64 Washington Ct, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
6. Granite Links Golf Club
Visit the Granite Links Golf Club to play some rounds of golf. If you are an avid or pro golfer visiting this place is a must-do in Quincy, MA.
You can check out this place with friends and family, as it promises to be fun. This top-tier golf club features 27 championship holes atop the popular Quincy Quarries.
The Granite Links Golf Club has quite a beautiful landscape which attracts numerous tourists who come here to see the spectacular views while playing some rounds of golf.
Apart from the views to see here, this gold facility features fairways that are well-maintained and verdant green areas. After hours of golfing, you can visit the famous Tavern Restaurant to eat dinner or stop by the Links.
Tee times are available for public play despite this golf facility being a private membership club.
Address: 100 Quarry Hills Dr, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
7. United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum
United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum
Are you a fan of military history? If yes, check out the United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum in Quincy, MA.
The United States Naval Shipbuilding Museum is on the water. It is an old shipyard building where workers constructed battleships for the United States Navy.
This museum tells the history of the United States Naval Shipbuilding and even the efforts of people involved in this industry.
The museum is also an abode to the only Heavy Cruiser in the world, the USS Salem. The exhibits in the museum comprise life aboard the ship in wartime and items that showcase the naval battles.
Apart from being a historic place, this museum offers overnight stays for guests interested in getting a personal experience aboard the gigantic ship.
Address: 549 South St, Pier 3, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
8. Blue Hills Skyline Trail
Blue Hills Skyline Trail
Blue Hills Skyline Trail is a 24.5 km challenging trail perfect for hikers seeking a more exciting adventure. Hiking along this Trail is one of the fun things to do in Quincy, MA.
A hike on this Trail takes about 8 hours, making the path an ideal way to experience nature even as you work on achieving fitness.
The rocky terrain and diverse trails make the hike challenging; therefore, you should ensure to come with grip shoes.
Aside from the challenging hike to experience, this Trail still offers excellent views of many parts of the city. You can check out the Eliot Tower, the ponds, the meadows, marshes, and ponds in the reservation, or see the Boston skyline.
When hiking, you might be fortunate to encounter numerous wildlife, such as turtles, snakes, birds, deer, and turtles. This attraction is available for visitations throughout the year, ensuring to bring lots of snacks and water before embarking on this adventure.
Address: Quincy, MA 02169, United States
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9. Quincy Historical Society
Quincy Historical Society
Learn more about the local history of this city by visiting the Quincy Historical Society, founded in 1893 by residents of Quincy, to preserve its history. It should be on your checklist of the top things to do in Quincy, MA.
Quincy Historical Society operates in a historic building on Adams Street, formerly the Adams Academy.
To commemorate the society’s objectives, the exhibits and programs in the museum are in line to promote and protect the rich culture and history of the community.
Take your time to browse the museum’s many collections, which comprise artifacts and historical archives, and documents with a history that stretches as far back as the 1800s and 1900s.
Address: 8 Adams St, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
10. Passcode Escape Room
Visit the Passcode Escape Room in Quincy to test your brain skills in analyzing and solving problems. You can check out this attraction with friends, family, or even your colleagues from work, as it promises to be an immersive experience.
This escape room facility has different types of themed rooms, each with its storyline and task to accomplish. Their rooms are unique, and there is enough parking space for visitors.
You and your buddies will be put in any of the rooms to find clues, use various features to solve puzzles, and fulfill your tasks within 60 minutes.
Address: 67 Coddington St Ste 206, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
11. Hancock Adams Common
Hancock Adams Common
Enjoy an afternoon at Hancock Adams Common, a scenic urban park and a perfect place to visit with your family, children, or dog.
The name of this Park was derived from John Adams and John Hancock, who were signers of the Deck of Independence. Quincy is also a birthplace for both men.
You can check out the bronze sculptures of John Adams and John Hancock, the beautiful foundation, and other gorgeous water elements in the Park.
The Park also features numerous benches, green spaces, and tall trees, making it an ideal place to relax and take your mind off life worries. You can also enjoy a stroll or go biking.
Address: Unnamed Road, 1305 Hancock St, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
12. Marina Bay Boardwalk
Marina Bay Boardwalk
If you are looking for a perfect escape from the noisy city, the Marina Bay Boardwalk is ideal, as it has fantastic weather, lovely views to see, and a relaxed environment.
The Marina Bay Boardwalk is said to be more vibrant and beautiful during night hours. Plenty of restaurants in the area offer excellent food menus, including entertainment venues where you can enjoy live music and dancing.
The Chantey Marina Bay, Victory Point Restaurant, and Water Club Marina Bay (a bar and grill) Industry are a few of the popular restaurants and clubs in the area.
Address: Marina Bay Boardwalk, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
13. The Dorothy Quincy Homestead
Dorothy Quincy Homestead
Visiting the Dorothy Quincy Homestead in Quincy walks you down memory lane into the history of America. The homestead was constructed in 1686 by Edmund Quincy II.
The famous colonial-era house is the earliest home of the Quincy family that is still standing. It is also the home where Dorothy Quincy was raised, who tied nuptials with John Hancock, Massachusetts’ first Executive Governor.
Dorothy Quincy Homestead showcases the growth of colonial architecture. In the early 1700s, the house went through numerous expansions and renovations. The home is recognized as a US National Historic Landmark and is open to the public.
Address: 34 Butler Rd, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
14. Nickerson Beach
Nickerson Beach
There is a park next to Nickerson Beach for picnics, including a walking trail close to Squaw Rock. The Park is usually peaceful because of less crowd, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a good time.
One fantastic thing about this place is the beautiful sunset views it offers during the evening hours of the day. If you have a dog at home, you should bring them along, as the beach is dog friendly.
Address: 161 Dorchester St, Quincy, MA 02171, United States
15. Adams National Historical Park
Adams National Historical Park
If you are a history enthusiast, an ideal place to visit while on vacation in Quincy is the Adams National Historical Park, a unique and popular historic site.
Formerly called the Adams National Historic Site, this place preserves as the home and also tells the history of two United States presidents, John Adams and John Quincy Adams, including United States envoy to Britain, Henry Adams, and also historians Brooks Adams and Henry Adams.
The primary features of this Park are the homes of the former United States presidents with the Old House at Peacefield. The Old Peacefield House is the property of Leonard Vassall, who also owns a sugar plantation.
A short stroll from the Old Peacefield leads you to the Stone Library, where you will see personal papers and treasure books of the Adams family. You can also check out the United First Parish Church to visit the grave site of the two presidents to pay your own last respects.
Address: 135 Adams St, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
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16. Thomas Crane Public Library
Thomas Crane Public Library
This city library in Quincy is famous for its architecture. It is one of the finest library buildings in the United States. Albert Crane established the Library in 1880 as a Monument to honor his deceased father, Thomas Crane.
The Thomas Crane Library features a Richardson Romanesque style and was designed by a famous architect in the 19th century Henry H. Richardson.
The Library is ideal for reading excellent books, hanging out with family and friends, or exploring this National Historic Landmark.
After the Boston Public Library, the Thomas Crane Library comes second with the most extensive municipal collection in the US state of Massachusetts. The Library also holds art exhibitions, lectures, and thrilling concerts.
Address: Thomas Crane Public Library, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
17. Passanageset Park at Broad Meadows Marsh
Passanageset Park at Broad Meadows Marsh is a scenic waterfront park with acres of upland meadow, 1.3 miles of walking trails, and gorgeous views. It is one of the best places to visit in Quincy, MA.
This Park is a perfect place for birdwatching, as more than 150 bird species have been observed since the reopening of the Park in 2015.
Apart from being a park, this site has a little history, so it is considered a historical landmark in the city. The Park was formerly an abode to the Native Americans who were original residents.
You can check out the four interpretive signs at the Park for more accounts about this site and Native American history. The Park also has diverse plant and wildlife species.
Address: 131R Sea St, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
18. Merrymount Park
Merrymount Park is the perfect place to visit if you want to spend a significant amount of time out in the open throughout your vacation in Quincy.
The Park is one of the biggest and most popular in the city. It covers a land area of 80 acres and was opened in 1885.
The facilities in Merrymount Park include outdoor sports courts, a field, a stadium, and a theater. It also has many trails, a boathouse, and forested uplands.
Dog owners can bring their dogs when visiting as the Park is dog-friendly. Finally, Merrymount Park is ideal for spending quality time with the entire family. You will surely have a wonderful experience with its natural and artificial facilities.
Address: 1 Merrymount Pkwy, Quincy, MA 02170, United States
19. Squantum Point Park
Squantum Point Park
Squantum Point Park is a public park on the Squantum Peninsula of Quincy, MA. It was established on the former site of Squantum Naval Air Station.
This Park occupies 49 acres of land packed with outdoor recreation and amenities for everyone. You can visit this Park with your loved ones and families as it promises to be fun.
The Squantum Point Park offers spectacular views of the Boston Skyline and outdoor activities, such as birding, shoreline fishing, canoeing, picnicking, birdwatch, and even trails for inline skating and running.
Visitors can bring their dogs to the Park, as it is furry-friendly. With the many features of this Park, visiting should be a must-see for anyone, especially if you are an outdoor enthusiast.
Address: Miwra Haul Rd, Quincy, MA 02171, United States
20. Sunset Yacht Rentals
Make your stay in Quincy, MA, memorable by going on a cruise on the Boston Harbor with Sunset Yacht Rentals.
Sunset Yacht Rentals is a private charter that provides boat cruises on the Boston Harbor. You can call or make reservations for their services via their webpage.
This charter company allows tourists to explore Boston Harbor or their destination aboard their 103′ Trilogy motor yacht. No matter what the occasion is, they have got you covered.
Their services are top-notch. You will be riding with the best captain and crew. The experience is top-tier at reasonable pricing. The Trilogy has many outstanding features to give you the most authentic experience while on the water.
Some of the features of the yacht include a spacious Foredeck Spa Pool Tub and two SunPads, Full-beam, luxurious Main Suite and two VIP Staterooms, a spacious Interior with sectional Sofa, Table, Chairs & Bar, Stools, and many others.
Address: 332 Victory Rd, Quincy, MA 02171, United States
21. Josiah Quincy House
Josiah Quincy House
The house was home to a revolutionary leader Colonel Josiah Quincy I, and his family. Quincy was significantly involved in Massachusetts’s political and social life during the 18th century.
The house features a Georgian architectural style and was designed by Pierce, Deacon Edward. In 1997 the house was formally named a National Historic Landmark due to its architectural importance and connection with the Quincy family. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Address: 20 Muirhead St, Quincy, MA 02170, United States
22. Hamill Galleries of Tribal Art
Hamill Galleries of Tribal Art
Check out the art scene in Quincy, MA, by visiting the Hamil Galleries of Tribal Art. Boston was the primary location of the art gallery before its shutting down.
With time a new location was opened in Quincy dedicated to tribal and contemporary art. You can browse its art collections consisting of wooden sculptures, exhibitions of traditional African art, textile models, and currencies.
In addition, the art gallery features work devoted to outsider art and architecture with insightful explanations. If you are an art enthusiast, this attraction should be a must-see.
Address: 1415 Hancock St, Suite 2, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
23. Hancock Cemetery
Hancock Cemetery
This historic burial site is on the Hancock Adams Common opposite the United First Parish Church. The Hancock Cemetery was built in 1640 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its significant history.
The cemetery takes after the name of Reverend John Hancock, who lived between 1702 and 1744 and is the father of the Founding Father John Hancock.
Hancock Cemetery was formerly the burial site for John Adams and John Quincy Adams with their wives, Abigail Adams and Louisa Adams, before they were transferred to the presidential crypt in the United First Parish Church.
Many members of the Quincy family are buried in the cemetery. Visitors can take a tour to learn more about people buried in the cemetery and how they lived.
Address: 1305 Hancock Street, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
24. United First Parish Church
United First Parish Church
The United First Parish Church was constructed using local granite and is believed to be part of the most exceptional Greek Revival Churches in New England. The Church was built entirely in 1823 and is a famous landmark in the city.
Since 1639 this Church has maintained this exact spot. Its current building was constructed through cash donations from the Adams family, and most of the granite needed for construction was obtained from the family’s quarry.
Both United States presidents, John Adams, and John Quincy Adams, were laid to rest inside the family crypt in the Church together with wives Abigail Adams and Louisa Catherine Adams.
Only two churches in the country house a presidential crypt, and United First Parish is one of them. Visitors can go on a guided tour of the Church and underground tomb. A friendly and interactive guide will lead you.
Address: 1306 Hancock St, Quincy, MA 02169, United States
25. Tony’s Clam Shop
Tony’s Clam Shop
You shouldn’t be looking for what to do in Quincy, MA, when you haven’t dined in Tony’s Clam Shop. It is a seafood restaurant on the historic Wollaston Beach in Quincy.
Tony’s Clam Shop is ideal for hanging out with your partner, family, or friends to enjoy the best seafood dishes.
This family-friendly restaurant has been operating for quite a long time since 1964, you can stop by for their fresh lobster roll, fried clams, and other seafood dishes, and they also serve cold beer and cocktails.
Tony’s Clam Shop has a greenhouse, a spacious patio where you can enjoy your food and seating that can accommodate over 100 customers. The restaurant is open every day between 11 am to 9 pm.
Address: Quincy Shore Drive Quincy, MA 02170, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Quincy
Quincy is a perfect destination to plan for your next vacation. The city has plenty of attractions and activities that will keep you busy throughout your stay. In this post, we have carefully listed some of the best things to do in the city to help make your trip worthwhile and memorable.