Category: Attractions

Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Boston

Boston is the capital city of US state Massachusetts. This populous city has many amusement points which are interesting in many aspects. Boston has numerous types of historic museums, ancient buildings, extravagant parks and fabulous shopping places. Either you want to see greenery or art or cultural locations or even modern architecture, this marvelous city will not let you get bore. Boston is really an enjoyable place for vacations. Some of its famous zones are mentioned here that will describe how Boston is a good place to visit.

10) New England Aquarium

This family visiting aquatic museum was built in 1969. The preeminent specialty of this giant museum is its gigantic ocean tank of 20000 US gallons. People who came here are briefed that how this aquarium came into being. Tourists can explore the habitats of this underwater world. Penguins show and whale watching are most interesting pageant of this famous New England Aquarium. The New England Aquarium also houses a state-of art IMAX Theater will be a memorable experience for its visitors. A lot of fish, turtles and other water creatures are there to amaze you.

9) Fenway Park

Boston has a sporty baseball park named as Fenway Park. This huge stadium has seating capacity of 37,713 spectators. Boston’s visitors are amused themselves by watching different famous baseball leagues in this historic park. It also hosted some soccer matches, famous football leagues and some hockey games. Some of exotic and popular concerts of Boston are also held in Fenway Park. This stadium seems to be a focal point of games in Boston. As in 2016 a big skiing completion and snowboarding championship occupied here.

8) Faneuil Hall

The classic Boston Landmark designated Faneuil Hall was built in 1743. Though it was maintained and renovated time to time but still a masterpiece of history. This building is also titled as National Historic Landmark. This place is very old marketplace and commercial forum where you can find many shops and food outlets. Second floor of this monument has legendary meeting hall where many of famous debates were given by great leaders. Third floor is for history nerds, because here is a museum of ancient armor and artillery.

7) Museum of Fine Arts

The comprehensive Museum of Fine Arts is the fourth largest Museum of US. This encyclopedic gallery has more than 450,000 pieces of art. Isn’t it amazing? It has many departments in it Art of America, Art of Europe, Art of Asia and many much more to explore. Film, music, performing art and numerous types of art-related lectures are its different programs. This is surely a family visiting place as there is a lot to enjoy for kids also. Tourists of Boston stray in the exclusive exhibitions held in this museum.

6) Boston Children’s Museum

This great children’s museum of Boston is dedicated to education of children. All things that are displayed here are kids relevant. Plentiful academic and informative activities are arranged are children. Little ones, teenagers and youngsters all have amusement exercises to explore the world in a new way. Different types of festivals are celebrated in an enthusiastic way without any difference of race and religion. Various informative presentations and educational exhibitions are held here. Boston Children’s Museum is definitely an extravagant place to come and enjoy with family and friends.

5) Old North Church

In the north end of Boston this beautiful Old North Church is located. This National Historic Landmark is the most archetypal church of Boston. The enduring fame and its superb architecture of this church are reasons for the visitors to come and see this religious building of Boston. Church site is decorated with two elegant gardens and three big lawns. Mission of this church is really famous for its words Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts. Old North Church is categorically a worth-watching place for history lovers as it is a part of Boston National Historic Park.

4) Old State House

Boston Landmark designated building the Old State House is situated at junction of Washington and State Streets. This is purely a historic spot which is one of the memorials of Freedom Trail. Many momentous events have witnessed by Old State House and its grounds which change the fortune of Arkansas. This museum has very valuable unique things of past as well as an impressive photo gallery. Many exhibitions held here that’s why several educational institutes bring their students here, to equip them with knowledge of this great Museum.

3) Arnold Arboretum

Arnold Arboretum is basically a part of Harvard University. It is a chic fusion of lovely Public Park and remarkable research institution. The real reason of its popularity is its achievements and contributions in study and research of plants. It is only one of its kinds in the world because it exists on 281 acres acquiring enormous selection of trees and plants. Arnold Arboretum is an exotic point of Boston for the tourists as it is loaded with lush green sceneries and charming views of small ponds.

2) Boston Public Library

The classic Boston Public Library is an imaginary place for book lovers. This public library has both of influence, historic value and surely academic worth. It is accommodating more than 23 million items in it. This great library is also granting digital services to its visitors including downloading e-books, audio books, having collection of CDs and DVDs and videos. Its calm and graceful hall is ideal place for readers to study their favorite book. This library is decorated with many fascinating murals to impress its tourists. One cannot feel bore at this marvelous place.

1) Newbury Street

Let’s talk about most glamorous street of Boston, Newbury Street. This busy commercial street is crowded with hundreds of shops, boutiques, salons and delicious dining. Walkways are built there for shopping lovers. Exclusive international and local brands are there to entertain its visitors. The one who comes to Boston; this is a must visiting place for him. This popular destination is located in Back Bay area of Boston and gets renovated time to time. This shopping district conveys a charming urban landscape which makes it more trendy.

An American Girl Doll Tour of Boston

Visit Boston and Explore the Times of the Doll Felicity

Boston is famous for its colonial history, and visitors to numerous historical sites can learn about the times when American Girl doll Felicity grew up.

Felicity Merriman, American Girl’s colonial-era doll, and her friend Elizabeth grew up in Williamsburg, Virginia in 1774. Boston, Massachusetts, is closely associated with colonial history and the start of the Revolutionary War, and it is also the home to the American Girl Boston store. Families can visit historical sites in the Boston area and shop at the store.

Lexington and Concord

On April 19, 1775 the “shot heard round the world” was fired in Lexington, marking the start of the War for Independence. Minuteman National Historic Park is the place where that shot was fired. The park offers guided tours as well as special events such as historical reenactments, musical performances, and storytelling. Hours and activities are limited during the winter season.

From May to October visitors can go to the Hartwell Tavern, on Route 2A in nearby Lincoln, which was the home of the Hartwell family and their children. Tours will inform visitors of the lives of the family, which ran a tavern just as Felicity’s father ran a general store. The Tavern is part of the park system as is The Wayside, home to various authors since colonial times, including Louisa May Alcott, Nathanial Hawthorne, and Harriet Lothrop, who wrote Five Little Peppers under the pen name Margaret Sidney.

Also in the city of Lexington is the privately run National Heritage Museum. Admission is free, and the museum has special exhibits and special events year-round. It has a long term installation called “Sowing the Seeds of Liberty: Lexington & the American Revolution,” which was designed to appeal to adults as well as children. The exhibit includes The Loring Kitchen, which introduces visitors to family life during Felicity’s time and to understand how food preparation and cooking would have happened in colonial times. Children will experience the exhibit through the eyes of a cartoon character, Billy the Patriot Mouse.

The Concord Museum is a local historical museum that features family-friendly exhibits including a fife played by a young boy during the Revolution and treasure hunts and hands-on activities as well as many special exhibits geared for children all year-long such as craft workshops and story hours. Fans of the American Girl Book, Felicity’s Surprise: A Christmas Story might like to visit in December for its annual tradition, Family Trees: A Celebration of Children’s Literature, when the museum’s galleries are decorated with many trees decorated with different ornaments inspired by a selection of picture books.

Though unrelated to the colonial era, girls and their families might enjoy a visit to Concord to Orchard House, home of Louisa May Alcott, author of Little Women.

Boston and Beyond

Children have all learned about the Boston Tea Party in school, and girls know that Felicity is fond of serving tea and has her own Tea Set. A replica of the ship is a museum in Boston Harbor, and one original tea chest is on exhibit. The ship and museum are undergoing an extensive renovation and are scheduled to reopen in Summer 2011.

One of Boston’s most popular tourist attractions is The Freedom Trail. Visitors follow a red line painted along the city’s streets which takes them from one attraction to another along the historic path that led to the creation of the United States of America.

John Adams, the second President of the United States, hailed from Quincy, Massachusetts (south of Boston), where his birthplace and home is now a National Historic Site open to the public. During Felicity’s time, John Adams was a delegate to the Continental Congress and one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

About an hour north of Boston, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is Strawbery Banke Museum. It is an American neighborhood restored to represent a community from the late 17th to mid-20th century. Special events often include topics specific to the colonial era. The museum has a popular Christmas time Candlelight Stroll.

American Girl Boston

The American Girl Boston store is located in the suburban city of Natick, in the Natick Collection Mall along Route 9.

The American Girl Bistro is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Advance reservations are highly recommended, which can be done online or by telephone.

American Girl Boston offers a variety of birthday and theme party options and has a Doll Hair Salon. The store also hosts special events throughout the years, such as craft making days and workshops.

Felicity grew up in Williamsburg, Virginia, which is now the site of the family-friendly Colonial Williamsburg living museum. However, visitors to Boston can also tour numerous colonial-era sites and learn more about Felicity’s world and can also go to American Girl Boston, the American Girl store. If taking a vacation along the East Coast, families can also visit New York City, just four hours away, and visits immigration sites related to Rebecca Rubin, the Russian-Jewish American Girl doll.

Boston with Kids – A Perfect Family Day

In The Wizard of Oz Dorothy followed a magical yellow brick road. In Boston, young ones can travel along a red brick road linking historical treasures.

Mayflower Pilgrims arrived at nearby Plymouth Rock in 1620 and for nearly 400 years Boston has played an important part in the history of this country. It is easy to explore this immensely likable city with children as many of the attractions are centrally-located and easy to navigate.

Boston Common

Across the street from the public garden, this is one of the oldest parks in America. The Frog Pond is a place where kids can slush around in the summer or ice skate in the winter. There’s a cemetery with many historic tombs in one corner of the Common along with part of Boston’s historic Freedom Trail but there are also horse trails, a carousel, and other goodies.

The Mapparium

A unique structure inside the Christian Science Building. This is a colorful globe where visitors can walk inside and see the various countries and continents of the world lit in blazing reds and blues. The map was created in 1930s and remains frozen in time at 1935 when the world’s boundaries were quite different.

Quincy Market

Be careful here, it’s easy to get lost because two of the buildings are very similar and there are many entrances and exits. Primarily a long mall filled with small shops with one building devoted almost exclusively to food. There are food stands, but not the usual fast food court lineup of chain eateries. Here there are local delicatessens, lobster rolls and bowls of clam chowder, ice cream, cookies and candy.. But the fun part of Quincy Market are the stands outside on the green where you can pick up souvenirs or watch an impromptu show. For history, visit adjacent Faneuil Hall. Free.

Fenway Park

If the kids are older take in a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, although it will cost a pretty penny. Otherwise, settle for a very interesting behind the scenes tour of the place which includes a history of Boston’s oldest baseball team and such luminaries as Ted Williams. Obviously, these tours go on when the stadium is not in use although some warm-up pitchers might be on hand. Fenway Park is one of the last of the old-time baseball fields and has gained historic status so it will not be torn down.

Paramount Cafe

Before the history lesson, however, begin the day at the cozy, neighborhood Paramount Café, at 44 Charles Street in Boston’s charming and very fashionable Beacon Hill. This family-friendly eatery with exposed brick and hardwood floors serves up casual breakfast and egg dishes, omelets, French toast, pancakes, and waffles that are always a hit with kids.

Boston’s Public Garden

A nice place to spend some free time—literally, because the place is lovely and it’s free. The traditional swan boat ride does cost a little extra and older kids may find it boring, but it’s certainly one of those touristy musts that round out a vacation.

A short stroll along Charles Street will bring you to the elegant Public Garden. Through a storybook wrought-iron gate, wind your way under tall, majestic trees to one of the most popular (and free!) attractions for children. In 1941 Robert McCloskey published “Make Way for Ducklings,” an endearing tale of a pair of mallard ducks who relocate their family to an island in the lagoon of the Boston Public Garden. Children visiting from within Boston or from as far as Botswana will be captivated as they make their way along the backs of bronze statuettes of the mother duck and her eight ducklings.

While they are darting from one duck to the next you can steal a glance over the wrought-iron fence towards Beacon Street at the fictional setting of the popular television show, “Cheers.” Don’t waste time going down the stairs hoping to run into Sam, Woody, Carla, or Diane as the interior is a fabrication of some Hollywood writer.

Returning your glance to the ducks, after some minutes you will come to the realization that the only way you’ll pry them away from these ducks is with the promise of a ride on a really, really big duck. Make your way over to the Prudential Center for the extremely popular “Duck Tour.”

Boston’s Duck Tour

This is great fun and a wonderful way to add spice to history and architecture. The amphibious vehicles (once known as DUKWs) prowl the streets of Boston while a costumed driver gives details on everything from Paul Revere’s ride to the pub trivia of Cheers. The vehicle then slips into the Charles River where the tourists can get a gander of Cambridge on the other side and hear all about Harvard and MIT. Not for very young children but anyone from eight to eighty should have a ball.

You will be forced to succumb to their pleading entreaties after they’ve caught one glimpse of these World War II-style amphibious vehicles prominent throughout central Boston. Your just-right 90-minute tour will take in all of Boston’s firsts: the first subway in the United States, the first public library, the first post office, the first college, the first public park, and the first public school.

From a comfortable vantage point, you can all sit back and relax on the top deck as everything slowly glides by. You’ll pass the imposing gold-domed State House, Faneuil Hall (pronounced like “flannel,” but without the “L”), the USS Constitution, the Boston Aquarium, the Boston Tea Party Ship, Paul Revere’s House, the Old North Church (“One if by land and two if by sea…”), as well as the winding streets of Beacon Hill (so much more enjoyable when experienced from a cushioned seat), and the TD Bankworth Garden (that everyone knows as the Boston Garden—home to the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins).

A Duck Tour satisfies your hunger to see all the historical sites and rewards the kids at the conclusion by veering off the road and diving right into the Charles River for a breathtaking cruise of the Boston and Cambridge skyline.

Faneuil Hall, Where Boston Meets since 1742

Return to Faneuil Hall Marketplace after your tour for their myriad of lunch options with more than 14 restaurants and 36 international food vendors inside Quincy Market Colonnade, the largest food hall in New England, offering everything you could imagine from Pizzeria Regina (of course) to healthy bowls of hot udon at Wagamama. You and the kids will be spoiled for choice.

Boston’s Freedom Trail

Energized for the afternoon, return to the street, and follow the red brick road known as the Freedom Trail. Boston recognizes the importance of incorporating the past with the present. While Faneuil Hall Marketplace may be viewed in its capacity as a useable mix of twenty-first century retail and restaurants, the imposing three-story brick structure facing Congress Street played center stage for revolutionary speeches by Samuel Adams and James Otis encouraging independence from Great Britain.

The red brick line in front of Faneuil Hall was the brainchild of local journalist William Schofield who, in 1951, wanted to preserve the city’s tremendous historical value and promoted the idea of creating a walking tour linking important local landmarks. By 1953, 40,000 people followed a red (mostly brick) path known as the Freedom Trail, providing correlation to16 significant historic sites along a 2.5-mile walk from Boston Common to Bunker Hill Monument across the river in Charlestown.

You can go at your own pace as you pass along monuments such as the original site of the Boston Latin School, the first public school built in 1636 and remains the oldest school existing in the United States. History is intertwined in Downtown Crossing at the Old South Meeting House where outraged colonists met in 1773 and organized events that would result in the Boston Tea Party. The reservedly-impressive Park Street Church built in 1809 was the location of a significant anti-slavery address in 1829.

Continuing along Park Street is the Old Granary Burial Grounds. This cemetery, dating from 1660, is the final resting place of many historical figures including three signers of the Declaration of Independence, eight governors and five victims of the Boston Massacre. You may be fortunate to see a costumed character in the style of Benjamin Franklin offering commentary. Though Ben isn’t buried here, his parents are.

Barking Crab, Boston

Depending upon energy levels there are many excellent museum options in downtown and the immediate vicinity, such as the Boston Children’s Museum, the Boston Fire Museum, the Science Museum, or the Aquarium.

At the conclusion, the Barking Crab located on Sleeper Street just off of Seaport Boulevard (unmissable under a massive yellow and red-striped canopy) is a family-friendly restaurant sure to be a hit of multiple generations. If you close your eyes, the sounds and smells could transport you to a roadside stand on the distant coast of Maine, but open your eyes and take in the magic of the Boston Waterfront with stunning views over the causeway of towering skyscrapers.

In the summer, eat at weather-worn picnic tables under a colorful canopy. If you visit during cooler months, you’ll still feel as if it’s August as plastic sheeting envelopes the sides allowing warm sunlight to pour in. The kids will be challenged to get as messy as the adults as they rip apart succulent Maine lobster and dive into cardboard baskets of fried clams, oysters, shrimp, and scallops. They also have veggies and even chicken burgers which is made from whatever is left behind after they’ve made chicken fingers.

Modern Pastry, Boston–1960s Time Warp

From here, a short and scenic stroll along the Waterfront will bring to the North End and Hanover Street, a slice of 1960s Napoli. Get in line at Modern Pastry and be rewarded some minutes later with the very best sfogliatelle, torrone, cannoli or tiramisu you will ever have this side Rome.

Green Oasis, The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Conservancy

Walk along Hanover Street to the stunning Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Conservancy and take a spin on the nostalgic carousel with an impressive skyline. Get out the camera and capture the memory of a Perfect Day in Boston with Kids. You will all slumber like angels tonight.

Older children could get a gander at some great art at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabel Gardner Museum, both standard stops for adults. And certainly, if there are teenagers in tow a visit to Harvard Square to check out the campus is in order. The school is surrounded by coffee shops, book shops, and that balmy university air.

Boston Duck Tours – Sightseeing on The Charles River

Freedom Trail, Beacon Hill, Sightseeing on The Charles River

Boston is famous for its role in the American Revolution. Boston Duck Tours provides an unusual way to see many popular attractions.

Boston Duck Tours offer visitors a novel way to see the city. Amphibious World War II landing craft tour the historic sites, with well-informed con”duck”tors providing an entertaining commentary throughout the eighty-minute trip. The trip is mainly on roads, but for about twenty minutes the boat takes to the water offering spectacular views of the city skyline from the Charles River. While afloat, the young, and young at heart, are offered the opportunity to take the controls.

The trip starts at the Prudential Center, which along with the adjacent Copley Square form Boston’s largest shopping center. The Prudential Tower is Boston’s second-largest building with an observation floor.

The Duck Tour passes Christian Science Center, Trinity Church, and the John Hancock Tower before entering Boston Public Gardens. The gardens, which are the oldest public botanical gardens in the country, are home to Swan Boats on the lake and the Make Way for Ducklings Statues by Nancy Schon

Continuing up Beacon Hill, the tour passes the monument to Civil War hero Robert Gould Shaw and the State House where Samuel Adams and Paul Revere laid the cornerstone in 1795.

Sports fans then see the TD Banknorth Garden, home of Boston Celtic and Boston Bruins, and pass the Museum of Science, which is an alternative starting point for this circular trip.

The bus then turns into a boat, sailing up the Charles River before returning to dry land. The Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution are the next landmarks passed, followed by the Old North Church where two lanterns were hung from the steeple on the night of Paul Revere’s ride.

Six encased glass and steel towers are the Holocaust Memorial built in 1995 and nearby the Union Oyster House is the oldest continually operating restaurant in the United States.

Faneuil Hall, christened the “Cradle of Liberty” after meetings there led to the American Revolution, continues the historical theme. Across the road stands The Old State House where the Royal Governors of Massachusetts held office.

The final leg of the journey passes the King’s Chapel Burying Ground and the Parker House Hotel before crossing Boston Common to the Bull and Finch pub, made famous by the TV Series Cheers. A short trip down the exclusive Newbury Street past the Copley Plaza Hotel and Boston Public Library completes the trip.

The Con”duck”tors make the trip both enjoyable and informative. Despite novel names like Major Tom Foolery, Dr Ima Quack and Paul Reverse, they have a detailed knowledge of history on the route and are willing to answer questions.

The tours are very popular and internet booking is available from 5 days in advance (at an extra charge). If you book on the day you will be given a ticket for a set time but expect this to be at least two hours after booking.

JFK Travel Sites in Boston

Tour President Kennedy in Massachusetts

Boston is a great place to visit to see many different phases of American history, from the Revolution up through President John F. Kennedy.

A visit to Boston gives one a chance to see many different parts of the history of America, and part of that history includes the life of President John F. Kennedy. There are several places to put on the list to see and do throughout the city not only because they are great places to visit, but because they also offer insight into the life of one of our country’s most beloved political figures.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum

Wanting to know more about the life of President John F. Kennedy during a visit to Boston must include a visit to the JFK Library since it is the central place to learn about the amazing life of this man before he became president and while he was in office. While reviewing the life and politics of the president and his family, visitors will experience pictures, audio and television clips, and interactive exhibits.

The Museum is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It sits overlooking the water at beautiful Columbia Point and can be reached by using public transportation. For those traveling by automobile, free parking is available.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
Columbia Point
Boston, Massachusetts 02125
888-535-1960

Union Oyster House

It’s worth visiting the Union Oyster House simply because it has some of the best seafood in Boston and can also boast that, having been established in 1826, it is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in America.

Beyond that, ask to sit upstairs in a special place called the “Kennedy Booth,” the very place where the future president used to regularly go on Sundays to hang out and read the newspapers while enjoying fresh, local seafood.

Union Oyster House
41 Union Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
617-227-2750

Fairmont Copley Plaza

When this beautiful, historic hotel opened in 1912, it was JFK’s grandfather, Boston Mayor John “Honey Fitz” Fitzgerald who cut the ribbon. The hotel has combined with the JFK Library and Museum to offer a suite that celebrates the public and private life of the president.

Besides offering a wonderful place to stay and an amazing level of service, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is also home to the Oak Room, a luxurious dining room offering steak house fare as well as local seafood.

Fairmont Copley Plaza
138 St. James Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02116
617-267-5300

Omni Parker House

Omni Parker House is worth visiting for a variety of reasons. Besides being a classic place to stay with a lot of history, it’s also the place to indulge one’s taste buds as the Boston Cream Pie and famed Parker House rolls were invented there. The hotel is also loaded with Boston history, and its renowned “Press Room” has been the place where a variety of public figures, including JFK, made major announcements.

In 1946, Kennedy, who was already known as a World War II hero, announced his candidacy for Congress, his first public office, at the hotel’s Press Room. In 1954 he held his bachelor party at the hotel’s Press Room before his marriage to Jacqueline Bouvier.

OMNI Parker House
60 School Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
617-227-8600

From a museum to hotels, to a restaurant booth where the future president would read the Sunday papers, Boston offers a variety of sites that offer a chance to find out more about JFK while also having a great vacation.

Free Historical Tours in Boston

Learn about some great historical tours in Boston that can be enjoyed for free. They include Boston Women’s Heritage and Boston National Historic Park.

Boston has many historical tours that focus on its general history, as well as many tours that focus on specific aspects of local history and leaders that contributed to its history. These tours are often offered at discounts to schools, but many of them can actually be quite expensive. However, there are also some great tours that are completely free, although some do suggest small donations. Some of these tours offer tour guides, while others are self-guided and simply supply all the learning materials.

Historic sites in Boston can be quite expensive, especially since many historic locations charge admission fees of $5-$15. This adds up over time, especially considering how many historical locations can be found throughout the city. Luckily, many locations offer free historic tours in Boston, and sometimes these locations don’t even charge an admission fee.

Boston African American National Historic Sites

Boston African American National Historic Sites offers a collection of fifteen sites that played an important role in African Americans’ fight towards freedom. The tour is known as the Black Heritage Trail, and it begins at the Shaw Memorial and ends at the Museum of Afro-American History. They also offer tours of the museum which is accompanied by an educational video.

The museum also has some excellent exhibits that are available to those that take the tour. The museum is in the Beacon Hill area of Boston, and further information can be found on the museum’s website. Although the tour is technically free, they do have a suggested $5 donation, but it is not required.

Museum of Afro-American History
46 Joy Street
(617) 725-0022

Boston Women’s Heritage

Boston Women’s Heritage Trail offers some great, free self-guided tours. It’s also the only tour in Boston that focuses on the women that played an important role in local history.

The website offers downloadable information for tours, which includes maps. They also offer a variety of tours that focus on different aspects of women’s history, including tours that focus specifically on women artists, educators, activists and abolitionists, and much more.

Boston Women’s Heritage Trail
(617) 522-2872

Boston National Historic Park

Boston National Historic Park consists of six different sites that have been administered by the NPS (National Park Service), all of which are part of the Freedom Trail, which consists of a total of fifteen sites. The tour begins at the Visit Center, and ends at the Old North Church, and takes around an hour and a half total.

Free tours are provided with a professional tour guide, but they also offer information and material for people to take a self-guided tour.

NPS Downtown Visitor Center
15 State Street
(617) 242-5642

Park Street Church

Park Street Church was built in the early 1800s and is a stop along the Freedom Trail. Park Street Church was part of a lot of the history of Boston and even stored gunpowder during the War of 1812. They also had a lot of well-known members and was the location for the Address to the Colonization, given by William Lloyd Garrison. This speech was his first public statement against slavery. The church still plays an important role in many current social issues and programs.

Park Street Church
(617) 523-3383

The Old State House

The Old State House was built in the early 1700s and is the oldest public building in Boston. It was originally used for the royal government in the New World and was the location of many historical events. It was the location of The Boston Massacre, as well as the first reading to the public of the Declaration of Independence in the entire state. It is open daily year-round from 9 am until 5 pm, although this changes to 4 pm throughout January. There is a small admission charge, except Boston children and the elderly can get in for free. However, they offer self-guided tours that are free, as well as guided towards (which may cost a small fee).

Old State House
206 Washington Street

The Old South Meeting House

The Old South Meeting House was the location where the colonials gathered to find a way to deal with the British tea tax. This quickly led to the Boston Tea Party, where many of the attendants gathered to toss all of the tea into the ocean. The Old South Meeting House still holds lectures and discussions on recent events, but also offers many concerts and readings as well. Admission is around $5, and they normally charge $3 for the tours. However, sometimes they offer tours for free. The tours are held from April through October.

Old South Meeting House
310 Washington Street
(617) 482-6439

  • Grader, Rob. The Cheap Bastard’s Guide to Boston, 2nd: Secrets of Living the Good Life–For Free!Guilford, Connecticut: Globe Pequot, 2009.
  • Wolff, Ethan. Frommer’s Boston 2010 (Frommer’s Complete). Hoboken, NJ: Frommers, 2010.

Top Attractions in Boston

Boston Offers Rich History and Top Attractions

Boston’s rich history in combination with its top attractions makes the city a great destination. Draws include the Public Garden, Freedom Trail, and New England Aquarium.

Boston is one of America’s best-loved cities. Whether you’re a fan of history, architecture, or Yankee cooking, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Beantown.

Boston is one of America’s best-loved cities. Whether you’re a fan of history, architecture, or Yankee cooking, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Beantown.

Swan Boats Are Big Boston Attraction

If you visit Boston between April and September, you’ll need to take a ride on the city’s beloved Swan Boats, a fleet of paddle boats that have been gliding across The Lagoon in the Public Garden for 120 years. The Public Garden itself, located in the heart of downtown, is a horticultural museum and the nation’s first botanic garden.

If you visit between December and March, you can ice skate on Frog Pond, the ice skating rink in the Boston Common, America’s oldest public park. The 50-acre area was set aside in 1634 as a military “training” ground and common pastureland, but it has always been a place where city dwellers convene for anything from a political rally to sunbathing. Adjacent to the Public Garden and across from the State House, these two beautiful green spaces are an oasis in the heart of the city.

Freedom Trail

Walking along Boston’s Freedom Trail, visitors can’t help wonder at the quaint historic churches and meeting halls surrounded by towering glass-and-steel skyscrapers.

The walls of the Old South Meeting Hall, one of 16 stops along the trail, were privy to Samuel Adam’s secret signal, which launched the Boston Tea Party. With a little imagination, you can almost hear today his words to make “Boston Harbor a teapot.”

Boston’s Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile, red-painted path that connects most of the city’s historic sights. From the Common, you can walk all the way to the Bunker Hill Monument and the Charlestown Navy Yard where the U.S.S. Constitution, familiarly known as “Old Ironsides,” is berthed.

Little Italy

You can also take a less ambitious version that leads you past Charles Bulfinch’s gold-domed State House (completed in 1798), King’s Chapel and Burying Ground (built in 1688), Old South Meeting House (built in 1729 as a Puritan meeting house), Old City Hall (also the site of the first public school in the nation), Old North Church (where the lantern was hung to signal that British troops were moving “by sea”), and Paul Revere’s House (the oldest house still standing in Boston).

Since this stop is in the heart of “Little Italy,” Boston’s North End, feel free to put history aside and have lunch at one of the many pizzerias/trattorias here, such as Antico Forno (93 Salem Street), Nebo (90 North Washington Street), or Pizzeria Regina (11 Thatcher Street).

Theater District

Just a few blocks away from this evocative historic setting, Boston’s theater district beckons. A variety of fine cuisine can be enjoyed at popular restaurants like BiNA Osteria. The restaurant’s creative menu and an excellent selection of wine and craft beer are perfectly set off by its stylish modern décor.

Museum of Fine Arts

And no matter where you are on the Freedom Trail, there always seems to be a Starbucks nearby. It’s only a short ride on the subway or via taxi to see the latest exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, or hear the Boston Pops at Symphony Hall. Boston is a great walking city with reliable mass transit.

Fortunately, many of the best hotels place you right near the action, including the historic Four Seasons Boston and the recently built Fairmont Battery Wharf.

Four Seasons Boston Across from the Public Gardens

The Four Seasons Boston is just across Boylston Street from the Public Gardens and near Beacon Hill, Boston Commons, and the start of the Freedom Trail. As in other Four Seasons hotels and resorts, the service level is impeccable and the décor luxurious down to the smallest detail. Many of the spacious guestrooms offer garden views. Guests can take advantage of the fitness center and indoor pool. The adjacent spa is cozy and offers diverse treatments.

Even locals are drawn to the Four Season’s restaurant, The Bristol, from breakfast to late-night snacks. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow diners to watch the world go by as they indulge in tasty signature martinis and creative entrees. Late Friday and Saturday night the Viennese dessert buffet tempts guests with 30 types of rich confections. The restaurant lounge features comfy couches and a fireplace.

Public Gardens

Just a few footsteps away from the Four Seasons, the Public Gardens are filled with flowering trees, charming bridges, and a willow-lined pond with a swan boat ride. Bronze statues overlook vibrant tulip beds and garden pathways. Next to the gardens is Boston Commons, which once was used as a cow pasture by city residents. Now it’s a popular park filled with leafy trees, monuments and well-used benches.

Bunker Hill Monument

A trek across the commons leads to the start of the Freedom Trail, which ends with the Bunker Hill Monument. Visitors can get their National Park passport stamped at the Freedom Trail visitor center adjacent to the Old State House. The Old Statehouse is just across from the site of the infamous Boston Massacre, which is now marked by a patch of bricks in a busy intersection.

Fairmont Battery Wharf Hotel on Boston Harbor

Only a few blocks from such stops are The Fairmont Battery Wharf Hotel on Boston Harbor in the North End. The stylish new hotel is just down the street from the Quincy Market, Christopher Columbus Park, and the New England Aquarium. A nearby water taxi stand offers transit to additional sites along the harbor and the Charles River, which feeds into it.

Additionally, the hotel is not far from popular Italian restaurants, including the North End’s oldest, Cantina Italiana, a favorite since 1931.

But even with such dining options nearby, guests shouldn’t miss the hotel’s own restaurant, Sensing. Making a splash on the local cuisine scene, Sensing offers a sophisticated setting where guests can watch their dinner being prepared by top chefs.

Rooms at the hotel provide harbor views and are outfitted with smart contemporary furnishings. Guests will appreciate the smart design of their accommodations, including the large, two-door clothes closet that opens both to the room’s foyer and its large bathroom.

Quincy Market

The nearby Quincy Market is a shoppers delight with a multitude of brand name venues as well as locally owned specialty boutiques and restaurants. Entertainment from musicians to magicians can be seen in the market’s central courtyard. Just a few blocks away, lush, green Christopher Columbus Park is set off by sweeping blue views of the Harbor.

New England Aquarium

Also within walking distance of the hotel is the New England Aquarium with its stories-tall central tank filled with all manner of sea creatures from sharks to parrotfish. Visitors wind their way up the central ramp surrounding the huge tank and can stop off at various floors to see other exhibits, including one on the massive Gulf of Maine ecosystem, which includes Boston Harbor.

Boston Duck Tours

Boston Duck Tours features a tour via an amphibious vehicle that leaves from the aquarium. Tour participants view historic sites along the streets of Boston then the tour leader drives into the Charles River for an exciting boat tour that shows off the city skyline.

Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market

Historical premises are only a few of the more than 15 designated stops on the Freedom Trail, along with Faneuil Hall (built by merchant Peter Faneuil in 1742 as the meeting place of the Sons of Liberty), Quincy Market, and the North and South Markets that now make up the huge urban destination know as Faneuil Hall Marketplace. While the historic structures remain, the markets are filled to the brim with modern shops, bars, restaurants, pushcarts, kiosks, and some historical exhibitions.

The area is also home to two landmark restaurants, Ye Olde Union Oyster House and Durgin-Park, both famous for New England and “Yankee” specialties like scrod, clam chowder, pot roast, and baked beans (they don’t call it “Beantown” for nothing!”

Boston’s Freedom Trail

Enjoy this Free Outdoor Tour of Boston’s Historical Attractions

Boston’s Freedom Trail is an excellent way to get an overview of Boston’s historical sites and to see downtown Boston on the cheap any time of the year.

The Boston Freedom Trail is a red-brick path that leads pedestrians throughout Boston’s downtown core to some of its major historical buildings and not-to-be-missed sites.

The trail can be experienced as a self-guided tour using one of the many travel guidebooks available from your local bookstore, or you can purchase a ticket for a more formal group tour. The 90-minute tours run daily year-round and are lead by energetic guides often costumed in historical garb. Tickets can be purchased at the Boston Common Visitor Information Centre or at the Bostix Booth in Faneuil Hall.

Though you can start walking the Freedom Trail at any point along the way, the official starting point is just outside the Visitor Information Centre in the Boston Common.

Sites along the Boston Freedom Trail

There are 16 historical stops along the 2.5 mile-long Freedom Trail, including everything from government buildings to chapels and cemeteries, to historically important homes, stores, and battle sites. Here is a selection of what you’ll see:

  • The Boston Common: A large public park, the Boston Common is the oldest such park in America and has been witness to everything from grazing herds to public speeches, military training, and even gallows and hangings. Today it is a lush green refuge in central Boston and host to concerts and public celebrations
  • Granary Burying Ground: This final resting place of some of Boston’s most famous people evokes both the historical significance of the region and the simple beauty of the seasons in the northeast US. Among the 2,300 burial markers on the grounds, you’ll want to keep a lookout for those of important historical figures like Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, James Otis, Benjamin Franklin’s parents, Peter Faneuil and John Hancock.
  • Faneuil Hall: The site of the first town hall meeting in America, Faneuil Hall witnessed both debates and dissent in its 250 years as a meeting hall and marketplace. Currently, the location of a variety of retail stores and the Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall is a good place to stop for lunch and a little shopping. With restaurants and outdoor patios lining the pedestrian mall, there are many spots to sit and watch the passers-by. Or, venture into the Quincy Market for a wide selection of food-court style eateries.
  • Paul Revere House: It was Paul Revere’s home in 1775 when Revere set out on horseback to warn Boston’s leaders about the pending British attack. Today it is a museum commemorating one of Boston’s most famous sons.

History of the Boston Freedom Trail

The Boston Freedom Trail was established in 1951 by Bill Schofield, a writer for the Herald Traveler newspaper who had been frustrated at his inability to easily locate Boston’s famous historical sites. Using his newspaper column to propose and market the idea, Schofield quickly found success when his idea was picked up by city officials who recognized the value the trail would bring to city dwellers and tourists alike. Schofield became known as the Father of the Freedom Trail. To this day, the Freedom Trail remains one of Boston’s most popular attractions and a worthwhile trek through the city’s historical sites.

Things to Do in Boston

Boston is the capital of Massachusetts. The city offers many dining venues, dance clubs, comedy clubs, and other things for people to enjoy.

Where is Boston? Boston is situated on the eastern coast of Massachusetts. Boston, incorporated in 1630, is one of the oldest cities in America. Many people visit Boston each year to experience the rich history that this city has to offer. There are many sights to see and activities to partake in while in the Boston area.

Dance Clubs in Boston

There are several dance clubs located in the Boston area. Dancing and club hopping can be a fun way to burn calories and have fun at the same time. Kells of Boston is a nightclub/restaurant with an Irish-American feel. Venu is a popular dance club that features hip-hop, Latin, or techno music depending on the night of the week. Gypsy Bar is an upbeat bar that features house music.

Comedy Clubs in Boston

Those that are in the mood to laugh should check out Dick’s Beantown Comedy Vault, which is located below Remington’s Restaurant. ImprovBoston is another comedy club where people can go to enjoy a laugh while watching stand-up comedians. This club is family-friendly and offers a slew of improv classes however, no drinks or dining are offered at this location making it easier not to destroy one’s diet with beer and unhealthy food.

Live Music Venues in Boston

Many bars and restaurants in the Boston area offer live music at certain times during the week. Hurricane O’Reilly’s is an Irish bar with a New Orleans feel where people can enjoy dancing and live music. TT The Bear also features live bands depending on the day of the week. Regular shows are offered at Berklee College of Music.

Boston Tourist Attractions

Sometimes, doing traditional “touristy” activities can be very enjoyable. People can take a tour provided by the Boston Duck Tour, which is available at sundown. Boston’s Prudential Building features a rooftop deck, which is usually open until as late as 10 pm. People can enjoy panoramic views of the Boston area from this vantage point. The Ghosts and Gravestones tour is available for people that wish to take a tour around some of Boston’s most “haunted” locations and parts of town.

Other Leisure Activities

Boston offers several leisure activities for people that are simply looking for relatively non-abrasive activities. A stroll down Boston’s North End takes you into the old Italian neighborhood. During the baseball season, visitors can check out the Red Sox game; they usually start at around 7:15 pm. The Museum of Fine Arts is open until 10:00 on certain days of the week.

Boston Museum of Fine Arts

A person can go back in time through art. A person’s art is what he or she can leave behind and it will remain long after his or her death. You can still see and appreciate the works of famous painters such as Renoir, Manet, and Van Gogh centuries after they are gone. For this reason, art museums become the homes of these collections of ancient and modern creations.

If you are an art person and happen to travel in Boston, make sure you stop by the Museum of Fine Arts. The Museum of Fine Arts Boston is home to over 450,000 artworks that goes back to the ancient times. It was founded in 1870 and its collection continues to grow. The museum itself is an art form on its own. It’s been built back in 1909, 100 years ago.

The Museum of Fine Arts Boston has had several major renovations before to house the ever-increasing number of artworks and to add more facilities for the community who could benefit from it.

The museum has a great collection of Egyptian artifacts including some of the ancient Egyptian jewelry worn by their royalties, some ancient Egyptian sculptures as well as some sarcophagi.

It houses several expensive paintings from artists such as Renoir, Manet, and the French impressionist Paul Gauguin. Japanese potteries of over 5,000 pieces as well as other arts from Asia, Africa, Oceania, Europe, America and of course it also exhibits the Ancient artifacts of the world.

Families can spend an entire day at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston through their Family Art Cart. Kids ages 4 and up (including the olds) can enjoy together with their hands-on activities. You can read books and check out some of the available materials that you could use for free. The adults can come and learn a new craft. MFA is offering some workshops and art classes.

There are different courses to choose from, printmaking, painting, sculpture and even calligraphy are being offered here. You will be taught how to turn your ideas into some form of art. You’ll be taught how to depict loneliness into a painting or a sculpture, etc. Check out their classes, they offer both day and night classes so you won’t have a hard time squeezing it into your schedule.

The Museum of Fine Arts Boston is indeed the home for art. You don’t only get to appreciate art; you can also learn how to create your own form of art.

Museum of Fine Arts Address
465 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02115

Contact:
Tel: (617) 267-9300
Email: webticketing@mfa.org(MFA Ticket Line)

Museum of Fine Arts Hours:
Monday and Tuesday: 10 a.m.- 4:45 p.m.
Wednesday-Friday: 10 a.m.- 9:45 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.- 4:45 p.m.

Ticket Information for the Museum of Fine Arts:
Adults: $20
Seniors and Students 18 and older: $18
Youths 6 and under: Free
Youths 7-17, Weekdays before 3 p.m.: $7.50
Members: Free
Youths 7-17 admitted free on weekdays after 3 p.m., weekends, and public school holidays

Audio Guides
Members: $5
Nonmembers: $6
Youths, 17 and under: $4

For more info, please visit its website below.

Website: http://www.mfa.org

Hotels Near Museum of Fine Arts Boston

Have your pleasant stay in Boston by staying at hotels near the Museum of Fine Arts! These decent hotels stand out from the rest with their easy access to major attractions, the financial district, academic institutions, medical institutions, and entertainments. They are the perfect bases for discovering the culture of this vibrant city and also serving academic or medical purposes.

No matter what you decide on Boston hotels in this area, you can always find and book the right one with less effort on this page. Some useful reviews will help you smooth your choosing process. And we also offer a one-stop reservation to save your priceless time. Read our helpful customer reviews and book now!

Benefits of Hotels Near Museum of Fine Arts Boston

  • Near several medical institutions and academic institutions
  • Steps to the Museum of Fine Arts
  • Easy to reach the shopping area and attractions
  • Modern amenities for travelers of all purposes
  • Special packages for a pleasant stay

You will find a suitable hotel to fit your needs among numerous Boston hotels near the Museum of Fine Arts no matter you are business travelers, pleasure tourists or go to Boston for educational or medical purposes. Their locations are all near the financial district, six major medical institutions like Boston’s Children’s Hospital, academic institutions like Northeastern University, tourist sights and shopping streets. Most hotels of two-star and above are dedicated to meeting your different requirements with various amenities including banquet facilities, conference services, business centers, fitness centers, health club, beauty salon and more. For those who plan to visit the Museum of Fine Arts, they offer the ultimate of convenience with the easily accessible public transports, special offers of museum ticket packages and a lot more.

Some complimentary hotels of this area are from top named brands, such as Hilton Boston Back Bay and Best Western at Longwood Medical Area. Both provide something special that may arouse your interest. Hilton’s Romance Package ensures romantic stay for couples with sparkling wine in room, full breakfast in the room, a customized local guide and a lot more. Western’s Museum of Fine Arts Package includes overnight accommodations, 2 tickets to the Museum, full American breakfast for two and parking for one car per night ($18value).

Hotels Near Museum Of Fine Arts Boston & Official Site Links

1. Hilton Boston Back Bay
40 Dalton Street, Boston, MA 02115-3123
Phone: (617) 236-1100
Official Website:
http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/BOSBHHH-Hilton-Boston-Back-Bay-Massachusetts/index.do

2. Best Western Boston – The Inn at Longwood Medical
342 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: (617) 731-4700, (800) GOT-BEST
E-Mail: info@innatlongwood.com
Official Website:
http://www.innatlongwood.com/