Susanne People say New York City is the economic center of the United States; Washington D.C. is the US’ political center, and Boston is the nation’s center of growth and innovation that nurtures America’s economic and political talents. Located on the northeast coast of America, Boston, the largest metropolis in Massachusetts, features many world-renowned universities. Harvard University and MIT, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, are among the most famous. Due to its important role in American history, Boston is called the First City of America.
The best period to visit Boston is from May to October when the weather is warm. Because of the influence of the maritime climate, the weather in Boston can change rapidly. Therefore, always make sure to check the Boston weather forecast before going outside.
Interested in taking a tour in Boston? Let’s grab a map of Boston and take some wonderful Boston pictures!
Main Attractions:
Bunker Hill Monument: Bunker Hill Monument is a 221-foot tall granite obelisk which is visible from miles away. It was erected in 1843 by the city’s residents in order to commemorate the American War of Independence. It is evidence of Boston’s long and important history and should not be missed.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace: Located between the Financial District and the north end of Boston, the Faneuil Hall Marketplace is one of Boston’s most popular attractions. This bustling public space is home to shops, food counters, restaurants, bars and more, and entices both tourists and locals. Make sure to visit the well-known Faneuil Hall, a four-story brick structure with a golden grasshopper weathervane that was built in the 1760s. This is where Bostonians fought for independence by protesting against British tax legislation.
New England aquarium: The New England Aquarium is home to more than 30,000 fish and 750 aquatic species including sharks, sea turtles, penguins and rare sea dragons. It is an ideal place if you want to spend a nice day with your children. Make sure not to miss the special exhibits, such as “Penguin Power”, “Move it! Marine Mammals in Motion” and “Turtles Uncovered”.
Things to do:
Stroll along the Freedom Trail: The Freedom Trail is a red-brick striped sidewalk. It stretches from Boston Commons to the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown and is 2.5 miles long. This trail links sixteen points that signify the contribution of Boston residents to the struggle for American freedom. Visit the Old North Church which warned of British troop and naval movements with its lanterns in 1775; and the site of the Boston Massacre, which occurred in 1770 and sparked a rebellion against the British that eventually led to the American Revolutionary War.
Enjoy great music and world class ballet: Boston is a major center for contemporary classical music and art; it is home to numerous world-renowned Boston theatres, operas and performing-art organizations, such as the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Pops Orchestra and the Boston Ballet. Every year, many top caliber Boston events and performances take place in the city and attract thousands of visitors.
Explore Boston’s neighbourhoods: Boston has numerous diverse neighbourhoods, such as Beacon Hill, the North End, the South End, Back Bay, Fenway-Kenmore, and others who all have a unique flavor and an interesting history. Several districts offer unique entertainment opportunities such as the Theatre District, the Waterfront District or the Leather District.
Boston Museums: Boston has a large assortment of museums that span a wide range of sometimes eclectic topics. Museums include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Institute of Contemporary Art, the Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments, the Boston Children’s Museum, the Museum of Science, the USS Constitution Museum, the Warren Anatomical Museum, the Semitic Museum and many more.
Visit Cambridge and its famous universities: Just across the Charles River from Boston, you can visit two of the world’s most renowned universities: Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Walking along the colonial-era brick sidewalks and narrow, winding roads, you will not only view many plaques and monuments linked to American History, but you will also experience the unique and vibrant atmosphere of Cambridge: dressed-up business people, punk rock kids and clean-cut college students. This area is effused with an air of pluralistic culture and represents a microcosm of American society. Make sure to visit “The Pit”, a center for alternative culture in Harvard Square.
Boston Duck tours: Another activity that you cannot miss is a Boston Duck tour, which begins at Boston Harbor. The “Duck” is an authentic WWII amphibious landing vehicle, renovated for sightseeing. It will take you on a cruise through all the historic places of Boston, such as the Boston Seaport, Copley Square, the Big Dig and the Prudential Tower. Roaming on the river, you will learn more facts and interesting insights about this unique and wonderful city.
Travel tips:
Boston Traffic:
As an international city, Boston has an extensive transportation traffic network. There are 6 different airports in and surrounding Boston. At Logan International Airport, located on the east side of Boston, a plane takes off or lands every two minutes. You can also reach Boston by bus or train. Amtrak trains to Boston arrive at the main terminus, South Station Boston. The MTBA-Massachusetts Bay Transportation authority operates the city transportation in Boston including the subway, buses and ferries.
Boston Restaurants / Foods:
Seafood, particularly lobster and New England clam chowder, which is studded with fresh clams and thickened with cream, are an essential culinary experience in Boston. Make sure not to miss the Boston cream pie, which consists of layers of custard that are topped with chocolate glaze. There are many fancy restaurants with dizzying menus and funky décor at all price points.
Boston is a vibrant and dynamic city with a long history and sophisticated cultural offerings. A trip to Boston is certain to create travel memories for a lifetime.
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