Things To Do
Freedom Trail
This walking trail winds for two and a half miles beginning at Boston Common and ending at the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown on the opposite side of the River. There are sixteen historically significant sites on the trail, all noted with bronze markers embedded in the sidewalk. Several companies offer guided tours by docents wearing period garb, but visitors can very easily follow the trail on their own, as its entire length is well marked in red brick and free maps are available at the visitors’ center in the Common. Most of the sites are free to visit, but a three stops charge admission: The Paul Revere House, the Old South Meeting House, and the Old State House.
Quincy Market
One of Boston’s favorites, Quincy Market is located in a historic area constructed in 1824 and named in remembrance of Mayor Josiah Quincy, who had arranged its construction without any debt or tax. The colorful, always lively market is made up of interesting knick knacks, souvenirs in which to buy your mementos of Boston and a fabulous food hall that has so many delectable culinary items you really will be spoilt for choice. And if any members of the family enjoy playing chess and other games, there are even tables set up for this during the day. And for all of you “Cheers” fans out there, there is a replica of the famous bar there too!
Boston Common & Public Garden
Probably the best known landmark in the city, Boston Common is the oldest park in the U.S. since 1634. The 50 acre park began as a cow pasture, then became a British camp in the pre-Revolutionary years, an execution ground, and more recently has been used as a public park for concerts, gatherings, protests, and speeches (notable speakers here include Martin Luther King, Jr. and Pope John Paul II). Charming public gardens were created in 1634 and modified in the Victorian Age, with the assistance of the then newly formed Boston Parks and Recreation Department, introducing over 80 species of plants from both local and varied locations around the city. Vibrant floral patterns were created using the very new techniques of hybridizing and propagating, eventually leading to the importing of exotic trees and plants. A popular attraction for all the family as you stroll past the famous Swan Boats operated and created over 100 years ago, the lovely lake and fountains, and variety of trees.
Museum of Fine Arts
Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is one of North America’s largest, and home to more than 450,000 works of art. The museum is huge, so make sure the family have on their comfortable walking shoes! The museum’s collection is spectacular, and includes a wonderful array of French Impressionist paintings as well as a magnificent Classical collection, where you can enjoy taking in the plentiful amount of frescos and sculptures from the Villa of the Contrado Bottaro in Pompeii. There are regular special exhibits too and certainly something for the whole family to enjoy. Plan on making a whole day of it!
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
This museum operates out of the historic home of Isabella Stewart Gardner, and showcases her personal art collection, which she began on her own and accumulated with her husband. The palatial estate includes work by Botticelli, Titian, Fra Angelico, and John Singer Sargent, among many, many others. Her collection also includes original pressings of books by Dante and illuminated manuscripts. Upon her death in 1924, her will included that the museum be open to all, but all works had to be displayed in the order that she herself had place it in. This meant that after an art theft in 1990 (among the thirteen stolen works were a Rembrandt and a Vermeer), the spaces in which those works hung remain empty. Gardner was a Red Sox fan, so discounts are given to people wearing Sox garb. Discounts are also given to anyone named Isabella.
Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill, a neighborhood of Federal style row houses, is not only a historic part of Boston but also one of the most desirable areas to live in these days! It is worth having a walk around the area to view its brick sidewalks and narrow streets with their prettily decorated lampposts. As you and your family explore the district passing through Charles Street and Louisbourg Square, home to some of Boston’s most lavish properties, you will understand why it is such a popular spot. There are also some lovely cafes and shops to explore.
Boston Brewery Tours
These fun tours offer both a day and evening option, and consist of a super time for the visiting adults of the family! The tours focus on the city’s popular brew/pub scene with the chance to learn all about the mechanics and history of brewing beer, as well as visiting four different Boston breweries. Enjoy learning all about the making of beer, talk with some brewery owners, participate in either a lunch or dinner (dependent on which tour you have chosen) and the opportunity to sample between 15 to 20 award-winning pilsners, stouts and other beers. There will be a small amount of walking involved. The tours are also wheelchair accessible.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
A completely new type of museum, this is where the family can view not only artifacts of historical importance but also enjoy a multi sensory experience! This floating museum is made up of high tech interactive exhibits, restored tea ships, absorbing documentaries all about this famous event and knowledgeable actors bringing you a sense of how it all happened, with a perfect sense of flair and drama! There is also the opportunity of throwing the tea overboard! A very interesting and enlightening time for all, rounded off with a visit to the café and well stocked gift shop.
USS Constitution Museum
Also known as “Old Ironsides”, this wooden-hulled ship is the oldest commissioned naval vessel in the world still afloat. Named by President Washington and launched in 1797, the ship is best known for defeating five British warships in the War of 1812. The Constitution is located on the north side of the Charles River in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Visitors are allowed to board the ship for a tour and photos; check the website for hours and be advised that the last tour boards half an hour before the scheduled closing time. All must pass a security screening, while visitors over 18 will need to present a photo ID.
Museum of Science
Together with over 700 interactive exhibits and various live presentations on show throughout the building, the Museum of Science is a Boston landmark. As well as its presentations, it is also home to the Mugar Omni Theater and Charles Hayden Planetarium. And if that wasn’t enough to keep the kids interested, the museum is also part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and home to over 100 rescued and rehabilitated animals. The MOS is a perfect learning arena for both adults and kids, even very little ones! There is also a lovely café serving delicious food (though you are allowed to bring your own refreshments).
Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library was founded in 1848, but this location was built in 1888 and offers one of the largest lending collections in the U.S. with over 23 million items. Free tours are offered seven days a week here, focusing on the sweeping, Renaissance-style architecture, inspired by Paris’ Bibilotheque Nationale and art-filled spaces with sweeping murals by John Singer Sargent, who died before finishing his final installation here (it remains as he left it). While here, don’t forget to make a wish by rubbing the tail of one of the stone lions leading up the staircase of the grand entry inside.
Boston Harborwalk
Take a family walk along the Harbor by following the Waterfront Trail which passes along the edge of wharves, piers, beaches and shoreline. You will discover some very quaint areas as you traverse the city’s many different attractions, while at the same time enjoying some fresh air and exercise. And, if you get a little weary, you can always take a water taxi! Harborwalk is in the process of expanding and, when fully completed, will extend in total to 46.9 miles from Chelsea Creek to Neponset River.