Boston is the largest city in Massachusetts and has a rich cultural, historical and economic heritage. With a prominent academic reputation, it has some of the best hospitals and scientific institutions in the world and is the commercial center of New England.
Many people visit Boston each year for the historic districts and cultural and sporting events. Take the Freedom Trail to some of the most historic parts of Boston and see the site of the Boston Tea Party. Nearby the street performers at Faneuil Hall Market entertain shoppers and passers-by, whilst bargain hunters head for Filene’s Basement.
For art visit the Isabella Stewart Gardiner Museum or the Museum of Fine Arts, and for those who like interactive, the Science Museum is one of the best in the world. The John F. Kennedy Museum is a tribute to one of America’s best-known presidents and a glimpse of twentieth-century history.
See one of America’s best universities at Harvard in nearby Cambridge where tours are often run by students. Look out for concerts by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Boston Ballet. Sporting fans may be lucky to catch a match with the Boston Red Sox. Take a train ride to Salem, site of the infamous witch trials. Visitors in the Fall will enjoy the colors of the leaves on Boston Common and in nearby New England.
Boston museums
Boston Children’s Museum
Exhibits include a cutaway city street, interactive orchestra, rock wall and lots more. This museum is not just for kids, all ages will enjoy the visit as well. 300 Congress Street, (617 266 5152 )
Boston Fire Museum
Displays of fire apparatus, and fire fighting equipment.Congress Street, Boston
Boston Museum of Fine Arts
This is known to be one of America’s finest museums and houses over 350,000 pieces of art. Art from all corners of the world is displayed here, with most housed in different sections.It will take a couple of days to really explore this museum. 465 Huntington Ave (617 267 9300).
Christian Science Centre
The world headquarters of the Christian Science Church. 175 Huntington Ave. (617 450 3790).
Faneuil Hall
Where the Revolution started and nicknamed as “the cradle of Liberty “. Dock Square( 617 242 5675).
Gibson House Museum
This Victorian house displays life as it was in the 19th Century. 137 Beacon Street (617 267 6338).
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
An amazing collection of quality furnishings, textiles, paintings, and sculptures are displayed here. There are several floors and galleries and even a courtyard displaying many beautiful works. A highlight is the Raphael Room housing work by the great artist. 280 The Fenway (617 566 1401).
John F. Kennedy Library and Museum
The story of Boston’s favorite son, J F Kennedy is told inside this modern glass structure. There are visual and media displays as well as a recreation of part of the White House in the Kennedy days. Columbia Point, Dorchester (877 616 4599)
Museum of Science
This is a must-see for children of all ages. With over 600 exhibits there is plenty to explore. Highlights are the Planetarium and Observatory as well as the five-story theatre screen. Science Park (617 723 2500).
Mapparium
175 Huntington Avenue
Nichols House Museum
Designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1804. 55 Mount Vernon Street (617 227 6993).
USS Constitution Museum
“Old Ironside” was launched in Boston in 1797. In this interactive museum, you can battle the British by video, raise a flag, tie a knot and learn much more about Boston’s maritime war history. Charlestown Navy Yard (617 426 1812).
Boston parks
Arnold Arboretum
This is 265 acres of park that contains over 7000 species of plants and trees. There are some great walking tracks through here and maps that show you which way to go and how long it takes. 125 Arborway, Jamaica Plain
Back Bay Fens
This pretty garden is popular with the inner city dwellers for running, walking or just relaxing. A highlight is the rose garden and the varied birdlife species. Fenway Park Drive
Boston Common
Boston Common is situated in the heart of Boston and covers 50 acres. It is always busy with dog walkers, joggers and families having a play together. Tremant Street
Boston Harbor Islands
Located just 8km from the CBD is this wonderful recreation area. There are 34 islands in total ranging in size and offering natural environs to walk, explore and swim in.
Boston Public Garden
Located adjacent to the Boston Common, is this peaceful garden. Flowers, paths, grassy areas and statues all combine to give it a tranquil feel, in the heart of the city. A highlight for children here is the famous paddle swan boats. and the bronze ducks. Arlington Street
Charles River Esplanade
This is a park and esplanade that extends for 14km and has plenty of activity surrounding it. Jogging, walking, skating and picnicking can all be enjoyed along here.
Forest Hills Cemetery
This cemetery is very unghoulish, in fact, it is one of the prettiest cemeteries in America. It is over 150 years old and is the resting place of some famous Americans. However, it is the trees, pond and scenic views that make it a pleasurable visiting experience. 95 Forest Hills Avenue, Jamaica Plain
Boston Places of Interest
Castle Island
Castle Island is home to Fort Independence used in the War of 1812. (617 268 5744)
Chinatown
A small Chinatown crammed with shops, restaurants, and more than 6,000 residents, located between South Station and Boston Common.
Freedom Trail
A 4 km walking tour of 16 historic sites that starts at Boston Common ending at the USS Constitution. Along the way see the old State House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church. (617 242 5642).
Long Wharf
This is where the boats and sightseeing cruises dock, and is the best palace to travel to the islands from. State Street
Harvard Square
A historic square in Cambridge with Harvard University.
Boston buildings
African Meeting House
This is the oldest African American church in America. 8 Smith Street (617 725 0022)
Boston Public Library
Established in 1848, this was the first library in America to lend books. It is an elaborate and ornate building, that includes a courtyard, halls and upper levels. 700 Boylston Street (617 536 5400).
Christian Science Centre
The world headquarters of the Christian Science Church. 175 Huntington Ave. (617 450 3790).
Faneuil Hall
Where the Revolution started and nicknamed as “the cradle of Liberty ”. Over the years many famous Americans have addressed the public in this hall, including JFK and Martin Luther King. There are several floors displaying art and historical artifacts. Dock Square( 617 242 5675)
John Hancock Tower
Once very popular due to its observation tower that closed to the public in 2001, this building still holds the mantle of New England’s tallest skyscraper. St James Avenue
Kings Chapel
A fine example of Georgian church architecture and next door is the King’s Chapel Burying ground which is Boston’s oldest cemetery. Corner Tremont and School Streets (617 635 4505)
Old North Church
Famous for hanging the two lanterns in the church sexton to say the British had gone to Lexington, this is one of Boston’s historic landmarks. 193 Salem Street (617 523 6676).
Paul Revere House
Built in 1680 and the house from which Paul Revere started his historic ride. Dwarfed by the surrounding modern buildings, this house remains true to its 1680 roots. There is even the Revere family 900-pound bell in the courtyard. 19 North Square (617 523 2338).
Prudential Center Skywalk Observatory
Prudential Centerb617-859-0648,
State House
This impressive piece of architecture is recognizable due to the golden dome. Inside are walls lined with works of art tracing Boston’s famous history, there is also a collection of 400 flags. 24 Beacon Street (617 727 3676).
Trinity Church
This Romanesque church is an imposing landmark in Boston. Constructed in 1877 of sandstone and granite, inside there is some lavish artwork, including murals and carvings. Copley Square (617 536 0944).
Boston animal attractions
New England Aquarium
This Aquarium is located on the waterfront and houses 70 exhibits all relating to aquatic marine life. Many exotic species are here to marvel at, and there are daily presentations of some very talented marine mammals. Central Wharf (617 973 5200).
Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover farm life on this typical New England working farm. All the usual farm animals are here to feed and pet, plus you can go on a good old fashioned hayride around the property. 208 South Great Road, Lincoln (781 259 2200)
Belkin Lookout Farm
Known to be the oldest continuous working farm in the USA, dating back to the 1600s. There is plenty to enjoy here, the usual farm animals can be seen working and playing, plus there are train rides, stagecoach rides, and fruit picking. 89 Pleasant St. South , South Natick (508 653 0653).
Franklin Park Zoo
This 72-acre zoo is nestled in Boston’s historic Franklin Park. Highlights of Franklin Park Zoo’s collection include the African lions of the Kalahari Kingdom, Masai giraffe and Grevy’s zebra of the Giraffe Savannah, and western lowland gorillas of the Tropical Forest. 1 Franklin Park Road, Dorchester.
Stone Zoo
There are some native American animals here as well as some exotic species from around the world.149 Pond Street, Stoneham