Boston, in eastern Massachusetts, is New England's largest city. This historical city traces its roots to long before the Revolutionary War, a conflict in which it played a great part. Today, it is best known for its waterways, sports teams and extensive green space. Active visitors to Boston will have no shortage filling their time in the city, whether taking a walking tour of Paul Revere's house, shopping for fresh produce or paddling on the river.
Exploring History
History buffs won't want to miss Boston's colonial history. One excellent tour is the Freedom Trail, .5 mile-walk that meanders through Boston, passing its 16 most important historical sites, from Paul Revere's house and the Old North Church to the first public school in the nation and USS Constitution, affectionately known as "Old Ironsides." Walk the path yourself, or take one of the guided tours, which start in Boston Common, to get historical insights.
Shopping and Eating
Downtown's historic Quincy Market, next to Faneuil Hall, where many Boston patriots gathered to discuss the Revolution, is another good stop for active visitors. Walk the outdoor market place not just for its stores, but its street performers as well. On summer weekends you can also pick out fresh produce from the nearby farmer's market as a snack or as the foundation of a healthy dinner. For an experience with more boutique stores, walk the shops along Newbury Street or Copley Place in Back Bay. During warmer weather, grab a bite to eat outdoors by the Seaport, or head to the South End for more restaurants with outside seating.
On the Water
Boston sits on the banks of the Charles River, which empties into Massachusetts Bay. You can canoe or kayak on the river, a good way to view the city on a hot summer day, and if you don't have your own craft you can easily rent one. A number of companies also offer cruises throughout the day. If you have several hours, take a whale watching trip, which goes out into the Bay in search of humpbacks and other behemoths.
Sports
Boston is the heart of New England's sports life, home to teams like the Bruins and Celtics. But perhaps its best known stadium is Fenway, home of the Red Sox. You can take a 50-minute guided walking tour of the fabled stadium, seven days a week, although tours are not available less than three hours before a game.
Special Events
You may want to time your visit to Boston to coincide with one of the many special events that the city hosts every year. If you're a runner and meet the time qualifications, sign up to do the Boston Marathon, held every April, or for a less strenuous day, do the half-marathon or 5K, held at different times throughout the year. If you plan to visit in the fall, you can witness October's Head of the Charles Regatta, where rowers compete for two days on the.
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