Boston is a city steeped in history and is the birthplace of United States independence. There is much to do to celebrate the fascinating past but also to explore contemporary society. Historic tours and sites are popular, and there is also a beautiful park, world-class art museums, and ample shopping and dining opportunities. Much of the city can be explored on foot, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the fresh air.
Chocolate and Sightseeing
The Old Town Trolley Tours are a hop on and off adventure through the city of Boston. The trolleys stop at 17 different predesignated locations and point out more than 100 sites. Tickets are valid all day and include free admission to the Old State House Museum. The regular city tour operates throughout year. On Saturdays from January to April visitors can load up on sweets during Boston's Original Chocolate Tour, a three-hour journey with tasting opportunities along the way. The conclusion of the tour is its main highlight, the decadent all-you-can-eat chocolate buffet at the Langham Hotel.
Gardens
Boston's Public Garden has been a space for the city's residents and visitors to relax and enjoy nature since 1837, when it opened as the country's first botanical garden. The park is filled with unusual plants, monuments and fountains and is a favorite site for picnics and romantic walks. Many come to enjoy the lagoon and to ride in the Swan Boats, which glide as serenely across the water as the birds for which they are designed and named. The neighboring Boston Common is another large park whose Frog Pond provides a summer spray pool and a winter skating rink.
Art Museums
The Museum of Fine Art has one of the most important comprehensive art collections in the world. Its holdings include a large Egyptian collection, the arts of Americas, musical instruments, textile and fashion arts, contemporary art and a strong European collection including many Impressionist works. The Institute of Contemporary Art, or ICA, opened its waterfront location in 2006, and the architecture of the building itself is one of the most exciting displays of modern art. The ICA has a continually changing rotation of temporary exhibits which can include painting, sculpture, photography or mixed media.
Walk Across History
The Freedom Trail is one of the country's oldest historic walks, and many of the sites along the trail played a key role in the independence of the United States. Visitors can take a self-guided walk along the trail by following the red lines painted on the sidewalks. The walk goes past places like the site of the Boston Massacre, Paul Revere's House, the Granary Burying Ground, the Old South Meeting House and the site of first public school. One of the most beloved stops along the trail is the Old North Church, where Robert Newman signaled the approach of the British troops with hanging lanterns from its steeple, "One if by land, and two, if by sea," and from which set Paul Revere off on his historic ride.
Shopping and Dining
Faneuil Hall is a shopping and dining area but is also rich in history. Patriot Sam Adams rallied citizens from the site, and throughout American history speakers like Susan B. Anthony and Ted Kennedy have spoken in Faneuil Hall. The Faneuil Hall Marketplace, also known as Quincy Market, has dozens of casual and fining dining restaurants as well as variety of shops. There is always live entertainment, from jugglers and magicians to musicians of all genres, performing in the open spaces. Faneuil Hall Marketplace is Wi-Fi-friendly.
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