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Boston flaunts its magic all year round.

Its public parks, harbor and surrounding waterfront offer a wealth of activities for everyone in every season 鈥� from ice skating on the frozen ponds in winter to outdoor yoga come spring, picnics and pop-up beer gardens in summer, and autumn strolls under falling golden leaves.

Here鈥檚 how to choose the best time for your next trip to Boston.

June to August reveals Boston in all its glory

New England summers are the stuff of legend 鈥� which makes June to August the glory time for Boston鈥檚 showcase attractions like outdoor sporting events and waterfront dining. Of course, the ideal weather usually draws crowds to the city鈥檚 best attractions and activities 鈥� walking , sailing in the harbor, lying out at one of the city鈥檚 numerous beaches, indulging in a lobster feast at a waterside restaurant, and meandering the boutiques and galleries along Newbury St.

 (formerly Restaurant Week) takes place twice a year, including once in August 鈥� so you can find some good deals on great spots. It鈥檚 wise to book hotels and excursions as far in advance as possible if you鈥檙e visiting in summer to ensure you won鈥檛 miss out.

June sees average temperatures in the mid-70s F, while July and August's temperatures increase to the low- to mid-80s F, though things can feel hotter with the urban heat-island effect. When the occasional summer storm rolls, seek out indoor attractions such as the New England Aquarium and Boston鈥檚 fabulous art museums.

March to May and September through November bring colorful flowers and foliage

Spring and autumn are both wonderful in Boston, with balmy, mild temperatures perfect for strolling and exploring. From March to May, crowds will be thinner and you鈥檒l enjoy a display of spring flowers such as magnolias and tulips; September through November brings a backdrop of glorious red, orange and yellow foliage.

Key events in spring include the St Patrick鈥檚 Day Parade in March and the in April. In fall, Oktoberfest festivities throughout the city start in September, with food vendors, live entertainment and (of course) plenty of beer. The third weekend in October is the , three days of rowing races on the Charles River that attract thousands of elite competitors and several hundred thousand spectators.

Average temperatures in spring and fall typically range from 50-60掳F, with early fall offering the possibility of summer-like stretches of sunshine.

December to February is best for fewer crowds and lower costs (just bundle up)

It鈥檚 no secret that Boston winters are cold, damp, windy (move over, Chicago) and generally quite snowy. Still, if you come prepared with a warm winter jacket and cozy accessories, Boston鈥檚 low season promises a local vibe, free of tourist hordes. Plus, you鈥檙e more likely to snag reservations at coveted restaurants.

December also means holiday magic; twinkling trees and festive pop-ups are a great reason to brave the chill. Another is the three-month-long , which starts mid-January and runs through the end of March.

Do dress appropriately, though. The cold temperatures typically blow in during December, averaging between 30掳F and 40掳F 鈥� but they dip in January and February, when the lows stay below freezing, hovering  between 20掳F and 25掳F. Wind chill can often exacerbate the cold, making temperatures feel even lower: don鈥檛 forget to look at the 鈥渇eels like鈥� temperature on the weather report to be sure you鈥檙e properly bundled up.