Things to do

1 Freedom Trail

Boston’s best walking tour is free, self-guided, chock-full of history, and open year round. Just follow the painted red stripe threading its way past historic buildings such as the Massachusetts State House.

Transport: Start point: Boston Common. “T” station: Park St (red/green lines)
Transport: Finish point: Charlestown. “T” station: Community College (orange line)

www.thefreedomtrail.org

2 Faneuil Hall Marketplace

What was once a dilapidated, post-revolutionary mercantile area now sets the standard for urban-renewal projects worldwide. It boasts an indoor food court in Quincy Market shops, and street performers.

Transport: “T” station:Government Center (green/blue line)
Phone: 617 523 1300
Quincy Market
Opening info: open 10am– 9pm Mon–Sat, noon– 6pm Sun
www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com

3 Boston Common & Public Garden

Swan boats drift beneath weeping willows, children splash in fountains, and a bronzed General George Washington oversees the proceedings from his lofty steed. The French-style flowerbeds may only bloom in warmer months, but the garden exudes old-world charm year round.

Location: Bounded by: Beacon, Park, Tremont, Arlington, & Boylston streets
Transport: “T” Station: Park Street (red/green line), Boylston, & Arlington stops (both green line)
Opening information: open 24 hours
www.bostonusa.com

4 Harvard University

America’s most prestigious university – named in honor of its principal benefactor, John Harvard, in 1638 – has nurtured, tortured, and tickled some of the greatest minds of the past 350 years. Visitors craving contact with the Harvard mystique are in luck, since much of the university is open to the public

Transport: Harvard (red line)
Address: Massachusetts Hall Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617 495 1573

www.harvard.edu/museums

5 Around Newbury Street

Don’t let the profusion of Prada-clad shoppers fool you: there’s more to Newbury Street than world-class retail, people watching, and al fresco dining. Look closely and you’ll glimpse a historical side to Newbury Street all but unseen by the fashionistas. Stock up at Deluca’s Back Bay Market (239 Newbury St) and have a picnic.

www.newbury-st.com

 

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