Boston, renowned for being an educational hub and a city rich in history, is the cultural and economic hub of Massachusetts. While Boston is home to large businesses, hospitals and universities, it's also home to lots of green space, walking trails and rivers, making it an appealing destination for individuals who love to spend time outdoors.
Walking Trails
For individuals who love to walk, Boston hosts several beautiful walking trails. For those who love history, The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile walking trail that takes visitors through 16 nationally significant historical sites. Visitors can enjoy walking the trail on their own or take a guided walking tour.
For people who enjoy being near the water, walking along the Charles River is a great choice. In addition to beautiful views, there are lots of parks and playgrounds to picnic and rest along the river.
Parks
The Emerald Necklace composes half of the City of Boston's park acreage, according to the Emerald Necklace Conservatory. The Emerald Necklace is made up of 1,000 acres of parkland stretched through six parks and waterways, which include the Arnold Arboretum, Back Bay Fens, Franklin Park, Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park and the Riverway. The Emerald Necklace was created by Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr. and according the Conservatory, is the only remaining linear park designed by him.
Biking Trails
Bicyclists will enjoy riding along the Paul Dudley White Bike Path on the Charles River Conservation. The 18-mile loop takes bikers from Science Park to Watertown Square. The Minuteman Bike Pathway is also a popular biking path that takes riders on an 11- mile journey from Cambridge to Bedford. For riders who enjoy a more scenic route, The Emerald Necklace also has biking paths for riders to enjoy.
Playgrounds
Boston has some really great playgrounds for kids to enjoy. According to Boston Central, Castle Island & Fort Independence is a 22-acre land-bound island that is the site of an old armory. Located near Logan International Airport, kids can play on the playground and watch the planes take off and land at Logan, which is an added bonus.
Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park is another popular play area for children. A short walk from the North End and Faneuil Hall, it's a great place to let the kids run free and enjoy some time outdoors, especially if they've been touring the city by stroller. The Stoneman Playground on the Esplanade has two separate play areas, including an enclosed play area for younger children.
Historical Churches
Boston is home to several historical churches. The Park Street Church is one of the nation's most historical churches. In 1818, the church held the first Sunday School and in 1931, "My Country 'Tis of Thee" was sung there for the first time.
The Old North Church is the oldest church in Boston, and is the location where the lanterns were hung to signal the advance of the British troops during the American Revolution. Both churches still hold Sunday services that visitors may attend. Since the churches are centrally located, you can attend a service then enjoy a nice walk through the city.
Member Comments