Boston, MA: When to Go and Weather

Weather: Boston weather is partly determined by its position on the Shawmut

Peninsula at the mouth of two rivers (the Charles and the Mystic) that flow into the Boston Harbor. The harbor eventually feeds into the Atlantic. The area's marshlands and various bodies of water contribute to the strong humidity that's characteristic of Boston weather. Rain is common throughout the year, and it snows all winter. Winds blow in from the Atlantic, keeping temperatures cooler in summer but adding a distinct chill during winter.

Summer: Boston weather is balmy and humid but not extremely hot in summer. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. The average temperature is 74 degrees F and the average monthly rainfall is 3 inches.

Fall: Fall foliage is Boston's finest attraction in the months of September through November. The weather is usually warm and sunny in early fall, but as winter comes on, the temperatures drop dramatically and rain showers the city. The average temperature is 55 degrees F and the average monthly rainfall is 3.8 inches.

Winter: Freezing rain and snow fall in Boston almost every day in winter. Boston weather is notoriously gray, wet, and chilly during the months of December, January, and February. Northeasterly storms bring up to 12 inches of snowfall in January alone. The average temperature is 29 degrees F and the average monthly rainfall is 4 inches.

Spring: Temperatures don't start warming up in Boston until well into spring. Rain showers seem to occur nearly every day in April and May, and early spring (March) usually brings a snowstorm or two. The average temperature is 53 degrees F and the average monthly rainfall is 3.5 inches.

For local weather reports, pick up a copy of the Boston Herald. or turn on WDH7 News..

When to Go: Peak Season

Peak travel season extends beyond the summer in Boston. The months of June, July, and August are busy with vacationing families, sports fans, and European travelers, but all of the city's colleges and universities draw large crowds for major spring and fall events like graduation and homecoming weekend. Downtown hotels are filled to capacity and the best accommodations may be booked up months ahead of time. Boston is popular whenever the weather is warm, and autumn, with its changing colors and sunny afternoons, is quite picturesque. You'll encounter good-sized crowds throughout the summer, and if you're traveling in spring or fall, make sure to check the major universities' calendars ahead of time to find out whether any events are on.

When to Go: Off Season

Boston is busy around the holidays, but the cold, snowy off season kicks off afterwards. From January to March, hotel rates take a nosedive and many major tourist sites are virtually empty due to Boston's frigid weather and short days. A dynamic schedule of cultural events, from theatre performances and classical concerts to art exhibitions, keep Boston residents busy during the chilly months, and visitors will find no shortage of indoor entertainment. Beware that travel plans may be delayed if you travel in the off season because of frequent icy precipitation that alters flight schedules.

When to Go: Shoulder Season

Early spring and late fall constitute the city's shoulder season. Boston weather is often clear and beautiful during the in-between months of April and November, though the former can be rainy and the latter can be quite chilly, especially at night. Business hotels are often booked to capacity during this time, as Boston hosts the highest numbers of conventions in spring and fall, and the shoulder season also sees plenty of travelers passing through for a night or two on their way to smaller New England towns. Still, the tourist crowds are minimal compared to what you'll see in summer, and there are some hotel deals to be had if you plan ahead.

• Mon

   

  Scattered Showers

  51  45

• Tue

   

  Showers

  51  39

• Wed

   

  Mostly Cloudy

  55  44

• Thu

   

  Showers

  55  47

• Fri

   

  Showers

  58  39

• Sat

   

  Showers

  49  33

• Sun

   

  Mostly Sunny

  48  33

Get more information on Boston weather.