Compact and easily navigable, the largest city in the New England region is bursting with tourist attractions, including a vast amount of landmarks tied to the founding of our nation. While the city of firsts in public schools and parks is home to many of the events that paved the way for the American Revolution, it’s also a vibrant and growing city.
Fenway Park in Boston
Known as the smallest but oldest Major League Baseball (MLB) stadium, this iconic ballpark opened its doors in 1912 to Boston’s beloved team, the Boston Red Sox. Rich in history, it attracts millions of people yearly for good reason. Fenway Park is recognized for its Green Monster, a high left-field wall and scoreboard operated by hand, and Pesky’s Pole down the right-field line. Home games sell out frequently. Check out more of our must-see stadiums across the globe.
Boston Faneuil Hall Market Place
These four historical brick buildings combine to make a popular destination for shopping, dining and convening in the heart of downtown. The place where Americans came to protest British rule now offers a lively atmosphere. Stop in Quincy Market for delicious local and international food and treats or head to the North and South Market buildings to find chain stores and specialty boutiques. Go outside to catch talented street performers, such as musicians, jugglers and escape artists.
New England Aquarium
Located on Boston’s central waterfront, the New England Aquarium features a four-story giant ocean tank home to tropical fish, turtles, sharks, eels and more. Touch sharks and rays, meet seals or watch an educational film in their IMAX theater. A place perfect for all ages. Behind the fun scenes, the aquarium is actively researching how to better protect the ecosystem while promoting conservation.
Freedom Trail in Boston
Marked by red lines and bricks fixed into the city’s sidewalks, the 2.5-mile-long trail takes visitors through 16 historical sites and landmarks symbolic of America’s history and the fight for independence. The path begins at the Boston Commons and major stops include the Massachusetts State House, the Boston Tea Party Ships, Paul Revere’s House and more. Use your imagination to immerse yourself on the journey to freedom or go with a guide for a more in-depth exploration. For more information about exploring Boston’s Freedom Trail.
Boston Common & Public Garden
These two adjacent parks serve as a recreational area to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city. Established in 1634, Boston Common is ranked as the oldest public park sizing at 50 acres of greenery with open fields and paths. Delicately landscaped gardens, a large lagoon with the famous swan boats, and its Make Way for Ducklings statues are just a few of the highlights of the Public Garden. Both are places enjoyed by residents and tourists due to their tranquility and historical significance.
Museum of Fine Arts in Boston
Museum of Fine Arts in Boston
Proclaimed as one of the most comprehensive in the world, the museum showcases over 450,000 works of art from an array of cultures and time periods, including renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, John Singer Sargent and Monet. Pieces of art from ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome along with exceptional special exhibitions can be found inside.
Boston Duck Tour
Take a seat, unwind and enjoy the journey aboard a recreated World War II-era amphibious vehicle as it glides past a handful of quintessential landmarks in the city. The humorous yet informative guides, called “conDUCKtors” will ensure a memorable and exhilarating experience as you cruise on land and through the Charles River. Private tours are available.
Experience Boston Tea Party Ships
Visit this floating museum to see the history and live reenactments of the Boston Tea Party, an important political protest where 92,000 plus pounds of tea were destroyed by colonists and thrown into the Boston harbor leading up to America’s freedom from Great Britain. Learn about what led up to these actions and the consequences that colonists faced after. Don’t miss out on participating in an interactive experience and throwing tea overboard like it’s 1773.
Boston’s Beacon Hill
Just a step away from Boston Common, this picturesque neighborhood reflects 19th-century architecture with narrow cobblestone streets, brick Federal-style row houses and gas-lit lanterns. Head all the way to the top to visit the Massachusetts State House. Find antique stores and boutiques on Charles Street and visit the most photographed street in America- Acorn Street.
USS Constitution in Boston
Step back in time and explore one of the oldest ships in the history of the U.S. Navy. The wooden, three-masted frigate which was launched in 1797 currently resides in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Today, active-duty sailors take you through some of the highlights of the ship that received its fame from the War of 1812. Also known as the “Old Ironsides,” it acquired its nickname as a result of British cannonballs bouncing off its strong, wooden hull.
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