Boston is not a city where you take a tour merely out of a sense of obligation. You may find yourself simply inspired to wander around this architectural theme park of cobblestone paths, antique brownstones and 18th century buildings. Explore quaint neighborhoods and discover quiet corners within the city.
Museum of Fine Arts The Museum of Fine Arts opened in 1876 and is considered one of the best in the country. Behind the Museum, is a secluded park, Back Bay Fens, which is convenient for taking a stroll. Nearby Canestaro is a family-friendly Italian restaurant that is well-known for its quality. When you've finished your meal, walk over to Copley Place or the Shops at Prudential Center, two large malls that have hundreds of stores and restaurants to explore.
Boston Common Located in the historic neighborhood of Beacon Hill is Boston Common, the country's oldest park, which also contains a public garden and frog pond. Also in this area is the Old State House, Boston's oldest public building. Stop into the nearby Museum of Science, which contains hundreds of educational and interactive exhibits, or shop at the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, which also offers many unique dining options.
Back BayBack Bay is a neighborhood filled with brownstones and tree-lined streets. The Boston Public Library can be found in this area. The nearby Fenway Park is home to the Boston Red Sox. The Brown Sugar Cafe is just a few blocks away as is theBoston University Observatory, where you can look through professional-grade telescopes and learn about the history of space.
North End The North End neighborhood is a largely Italian community that is filled with history. The Old North Church is the oldest religious building in Boston. Drop into Gelateria for some traditional, Italian gelato. Just up the road is Christopher Columbus Park, which features stunning views of the harbor. Lucca Restaurant & Bar is a nearby dining option where guests can enjoy some rustic Italian dishes.
Whether you travel by foot, trolley, bike or car, you are sure to bump into a museum, historic site or architectural gem at almost every turn in Boston and Cambridge. From Paul Revere's ride to John F. Kennedy's presidency, Boston has long been a place where history is made, and its popularity as a tourist destination attests to the ease with which you can explore it.