Known as Beantown back in the colonial days and often called the Hub, Hub of the Solar System or Hub of the Universe---a phrase that was originated by writer Oliver Wendell Holmes in 1858---New England's largest city is also one of the nation's oldest cities. Boston offers free, healthy and active activities for locals and tourists during any season and it is a perfect haven for tourists who don't want to spend a lot of money. Locals and tourists can wander endlessly through historic sites with no admission fees or do a total of about 5 miles on the Freedom Trail walking tour of Boston's colonial and revolutionary landmarks.
The Boston Freedom Trail
At approximately 2.5-miles each way, the Freedom Trail is designed for visitors to explore or take a guided tour that leads to 16 historic sites within the city of Boston for a total of about five miles. It's a healthy walking tour where you can enjoy learning about the American Revolutionary period. It is best to walk during the spring or fall when the weather is not too hot or freezing. Just follow the red-brick line on the sidewalks starting at the 50-acre Boston Common. Historic landmarks include the Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, King's Chapel, Benjamin Franklin Statue, Boston Latin School, Old Corner Book Store, Old South Meeting House, Old State House, site of the Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, Copp's Hill Burying Ground, Bunker Hill Monument and USS Constitution.
Boston Beaches
Within 45 minutes by ferry from downtown Boston, Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area is a relaxing hub to camp, walk through a Civil War-era fort, swim, hike on trails and salt marshes, fish or have a picnic with your family. From June to October there are island tours to famous American lighthouse Boston Light in outer Boston Harbor. If you are looking for a breathtaking view of the Boston Harbor, want to play Frisbee in the sand or are just want to relax on a real beach, walk to the Carson Beach in south Boston from the JFK stop. You can walk, jog and bike along the Fort Independence Park or on the walkway from Castle Island to the Kennedy Library.
Harvard Square
Harvard Square is a bustling center of arts and entertainment and has an especially diverse collection of bookstores such as the Harvard Book Store and Harvard COOP. If you are visiting at the right time, you can attend lectures or book signing at the bookstores. It is home to academic students, international visitors and Cambridge locals as well as folk music and antique theaters. You can walk on the brick-laden sidewalks around Harvard Square, explore the eclectic shops, coffeehouses and cafes or enjoy the free entertainment from the street performers.
Bunker Hill Monument
On June 17, 1775, the American colonists and the British armies fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill, which remains the first major battle of the American Revolution history. Standing at 221 feet tall, the Bunker Hill Monument showcases a total of 294 steps where visitors and locals can climb to the top with view of Boston skyline. It is a healthy workout for anyone who wants to use every muscle in their legs. The admission is free and it is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day.
Newbury Street
Situated at the Back Bay area of Boston from the Boston Public Garden to Massachusetts Avenue, popular Newbury Street serves as a boutique shopping and fine-dining destination where tourists and residents can stroll leisurely through art galleries or boutique shops for free. It is also an eclectic mix of local flavor and street entertainment. The best time to visit Newbury Street is during the spring or summer.
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