Boston, MA Things to Do and Attractions
Bordered by Boston's Financial District, waterfront, North End, Government Center and Haymarket, Faneuil Hall Marketplace has been a celebrated Boston attraction for over 250 years, enticing over 14 million visitors annually. Located in the heart of
Bordered by Boston's Financial District, waterfront, North End, Government Center and Haymarket, Faneuil Hall Marketplace has been a celebrated Boston attraction for over 250 years, enticing over 14 million visitors annually. Located in the heart of Boston, the marketplace, which served as a critical meeting place during the American Revolution, remains a bustling urban center where both locals and visitors can convene for shopping, dining and entertainment.
The Faneuil Hall Marketplace is home to three attractions in addition to Faneuil Hall: Quincy Market, North Market and South Market. Together, these locations feature national retailers such as Coach, Ann Taylor and Crate & Barrel, specialty retailers and 43 unique pushcarts referred to collectively as the Bull Market. While strolling among shops, visitors also enjoy street performers, who are selected after annual auditions. Performers have ranged from Macedonian puppeteers to Japanese music groups.
Faneuil Hall is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM and Sunday from noon to 6 PM. Street performances take place daily, March to October, from 11 AM to 11 PM. Admission to the hall and marketplace is free. Parking is available at the 75 State Street Garage.
Located downtown on Tremont Street, the Granary Burying Ground is the 3rd oldest burying ground in Boston. Roughly 2,345 gravestones populate the grounds, but it's likely that about 5,000 people are buried there. Dating back to 1660, the Granary is
Located downtown on Tremont Street, the Granary Burying Ground is the 3rd oldest burying ground in Boston. Roughly 2,345 gravestones populate the grounds, but it's likely that about 5,000 people are buried there. Dating back to 1660, the Granary is the final resting place for many famous figures, including five victims of the Boston Massacre and three signers of the Declaration of Independence: Samuel Adams, John Hancock and Robert Treat Paine. Revolutionary orator James Otis and famed Revolutionary figure Paul Revere are also interred at the Granary, as is the wife of Issac Goose, reportedly the real Mother Goose of the famous nursery rhyme.
Opened to the public January 1, 1903, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is located inside a striking 15th century Venetian-style palace with three stories of galleries surrounding a beautiful courtyard. The museum houses more than 2,500 paintings,
Opened to the public January 1, 1903, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is located inside a striking 15th century Venetian-style palace with three stories of galleries surrounding a beautiful courtyard. The museum houses more than 2,500 paintings, sculptures, tapestries and rare books by famous artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael, Edouard Manet, Edgar Degas and Henri Matisse. In fact, the first Matisse to be included in an American collection can be found in the museum's yellow room. The museum's archives contain more than 7,000 letters from 1,000 correspondents, including well-known figures such as Henry Adams, T.S. Eliot and Oliver Wendell Holmes, as well as the original Dante manuscripts.
Wealthy patron of the arts Isabella Stewart Gardner designed the museum, handpicked and collected every work of art, and even installed each piece herself - a feat that has not been accomplished by any other private collector. Over the course of Gardner's lifetime, she invited artists, performers and scholars to the museum to gain inspiration from its magnificent collection of art and impressive architecture. Today, her legacy lives with established contemporary art, music and education programs focusing on the influence of the visual arts on innovative thinking and artistic creation.
The museum is available for private events of up to 250 people. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. It is closed July 4, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for college students with valid identification. Admission for guests under 18 is free.
Founded in 1870, the Museum of Fine Arts is not only one of the biggest museums in the United States, but also home to one of largest permanent collections of art in the nation - nearly 450,000 pieces. Originally located in a terra cotta brick,
Founded in 1870, the Museum of Fine Arts is not only one of the biggest museums in the United States, but also home to one of largest permanent collections of art in the nation - nearly 450,000 pieces. Originally located in a terra cotta brick, Gothic-style building in Boston's Bay Back neighborhood, the museum is now located on Huntington Avenue, often referred to as "Avenue of the Arts." More than one million people visit the Museum of Fine Arts each year to view special exhibitions and participate in innovative educational programs. Highlights include European masterpieces by Rembrandt and van Gogh and contemporary work of artists such as Andy Warhol, Susan Rothenberg, David Hockney and Takashi Murakami.
The museum is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 AM to 4:45 PM, Wednesday through Friday from 10 AM to 9:45 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 4:45 PM. It is closed Patriots' Day, July 4, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is $6.50 for youths ages 7-17, $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. Admission for children under 6 is free. Visitors are encouraged to take public transportation to the museum, as parking is limited.
Located at 19 North Square, this national historic landmark is the oldest building in downtown Boston. Built in 1680, Paul Revere's House is also one of the last buildings standing from the early Colonial era in America. While the home has gone
Located at 19 North Square, this national historic landmark is the oldest building in downtown Boston. Built in 1680, Paul Revere's House is also one of the last buildings standing from the early Colonial era in America. While the home has gone through multiple owners and renovations since Revere, it has been restored to its original 17th century appearance. In fact, 90 percent of the structure, including two doors, three window frames, the foundation, inner wall, raftering and sections of the flooring, are original, and two chambers upstairs feature furniture that belonged to the Revere family. The courtyard showcases a 900-pound bell from the USS Constitution made by Paul Revere & Sons.
Paul Revere's House is open daily, April 15 to October 31, from 9:30 AM to 5:15 PM, and daily, November 1 to April 14, from 9:30 AM to 4:15 PM. It is closed Monday in January, February and March, as well as Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is $1 for children ages 5-17, $3 for adults and $2.50 for seniors and students.
Designed by Charles Luckman and Associates for Prudential Insurance, the 759-foot-tall Prudential Tower has 52 floors, making it the 2nd tallest skyscraper in Boston. The "Prudential Skywalk," located on the 50th floor, is the highest observation
Designed by Charles Luckman and Associates for Prudential Insurance, the 759-foot-tall Prudential Tower has 52 floors, making it the 2nd tallest skyscraper in Boston. The "Prudential Skywalk," located on the 50th floor, is the highest observation deck in New England open to the public, while the 52nd floor is home to the Top of the Hub restaurant, an ideal location for dining with a view. Over 75 shops and restaurants are found throughout the surrounding Prudential Center.
The skywalk is open daily, November 1 to February 28, from 10 AM to 8 PM. It is open daily, March 1 to October 31, from 10 AM to 10 PM. Tickets cost $7.50 for children under 12, $11 for adults and $9 for seniors.
The USS Constitution, or "Old Ironsides," is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world, owned and operated by the U.S. Navy since 1797. The ship was made from nearly 2,000 trees and was equipped with cannons made in Rhode Island and copper
The USS Constitution, or "Old Ironsides," is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world, owned and operated by the U.S. Navy since 1797. The ship was made from nearly 2,000 trees and was equipped with cannons made in Rhode Island and copper fastenings made by Paul Revere. The USS Constitution Museum, whose facility sits nearby the ship in the Charleston Navy Yard, houses artifacts related to the ship's history in collections.
The museum is available for group accommodations. The USS Constitution is open Thursday through Sunday, November 1 to March 31, from 10 AM to 3:50 PM. It is open Tuesday through Sunday, April 1 to October 31, from 10 AM to 5:50 PM. It is closed President's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Tours run every 30 minutes. The museum is open daily, October 16 to April 14, from 10 AM to 5 PM. It is open daily, April 15 to October 15, from 9 AM to 6 PM. Admission to both the ship and museum is by donation. Group tours of the museum are offered for $5 per person. Reservations are required.
Located in Boston's Bay Back neighborhood, the chic and classy 33 Restaurant and Lounge transforms into one of Boston's hottest spots after dark. The lounge's hip, modern dcor features LED-lit stairwells, maple ceilings, exposed brick arches and
Located in Boston's Bay Back neighborhood, the chic and classy 33 Restaurant and Lounge transforms into one of Boston's hottest spots after dark. The lounge's hip, modern dcor features LED-lit stairwells, maple ceilings, exposed brick arches and plush, oversized seating. Guests enjoy the latest music on a state-of-the-art sound system while sipping signature cocktails such as the 33 Tini, made of strawberries, sour apple liqueur and Hpnotiq. Small-plate items are available from the bar until 11 PM, and dinner selections include poultry, seafood and beef entrees.
Available for groups of up to 500 people, 33 Restaurant and Lounge has a full-time event planning department that plans more than 300 events a year. 33 Restaurant and Lounge serves dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5 to 11 PM. The bar is open Tuesday from 5 to 11 PM and Wednesday through Saturday from 5 PM to 2 AM. Dinner entrees range from $19 to $51 and bar menu selections range from $6 to $12. Cocktails start at $14.
Spanning nearly 14 acres, Adams National Historical Park is made up of 11 historic structures of significance to five generations of the Adams family from 1720 to 1927. The birthplaces of former U.S. Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams as
Spanning nearly 14 acres, Adams National Historical Park is made up of 11 historic structures of significance to five generations of the Adams family from 1720 to 1927. The birthplaces of former U.S. Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams as well as "Old House," home to four generations of the family, are found in the park. Also on the grounds is the Stone Library, which houses a collection of 14,000 volumes and is thought to be the first presidential library. Two-hour guided tours are available for those who wish to see the historic homes.
Adams National Historical Park is open daily, April 19 to November 10, from 9 AM to 5 PM. The last tour departs at 3:15 PM. Tickets cost $5 for adults and are free for children under 16. Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Garage parking is available and can be validated.
The oldest restaurant and brewery in the city, Boston Beer Works' flagship store has been a local favorite since its opening in 1992. Baseball paraphernalia blankets the walls, not surprising for a bar located steps away from Fenway Park. The
The oldest restaurant and brewery in the city, Boston Beer Works' flagship store has been a local favorite since its opening in 1992. Baseball paraphernalia blankets the walls, not surprising for a bar located steps away from Fenway Park. The brewery's "naked and true" interior concept allows patrons to get an up close look at the beer making process. Boston Beer Works brews 50 varieties each year, and always has at least 15 microbrews on tap, many of which have distinctive Boston names including Beantown Nut Brown Ale, Boston Red and Fenway American Pale Ale. A selection of bar food classics, from burgers to pizza, is available, along with "Bucket" menu options, which, as the name implies, are large portions of appetizers such as onion rings and fried pickles.
Boston Beer Works offers group accommodations for 20 to 600 people. Boston Beer Works is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 to 1 AM and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 to 2 AM. Entrees range from $11 to $16.
Visitors can enjoy the Boston Harbor Islands and their rich history on the Boston Light Tour. The three-hour experience departs from Fan Pier and takes guests on a narrated voyage in Boston Harbor to see Graves Light and Long Island Head Light. The
Visitors can enjoy the Boston Harbor Islands and their rich history on the Boston Light Tour. The three-hour experience departs from Fan Pier and takes guests on a narrated voyage in Boston Harbor to see Graves Light and Long Island Head Light. The tour also stops on Little Brewster Island, home of Boston Light, the oldest continually-used lighthouse site in the nation. Guests can explore the island and learn about both the light and the island's history.
The Boston Light Tour departs Thursday and Saturday, June to October, at 10 AM and 1:30 PM and Friday and Sunday at 10 AM. Tickets cost $29 for children ages 3-11, $38 for adults and $35 for seniors ages 65 and older and active military. Tickets for children under 3 are free. Booking tickets early is recommended.
As home to almost 400 movie and television shows, Boston has several sites that visitors are likely to have seen on the big or small screen. Boston Movie Tours takes visitors to these familiar locations, either on a two-hour bus tour or 90-minute
As home to almost 400 movie and television shows, Boston has several sites that visitors are likely to have seen on the big or small screen. Boston Movie Tours takes visitors to these familiar locations, either on a two-hour bus tour or 90-minute walking tour, providing behind-the-scenes trivia and insider gossip. The walking tour explores the Boston Movie Mile, Boston's most filmed location with over 30 spots being used for television series such as Cheers and Ally McBeal and movies such as Blown Away. The bus tour visits spots such as the L Street Tavern seen in Good Will Hunting, various locations filmed for Mystic River, and, as of 2007, 10 locations from The Departed.
The walking tour runs Friday through Sunday in May at 2 PM; Friday through Monday, June to September, at 2 PM; and Saturday and Sunday in October at 2 PM. The bus tour runs Saturday in April at 11 AM; Saturday and Sunday in May at 11 AM; and Thursday through Sunday, June to August, at 11 AM. September tour times are mostly on the weekend. Walking tour tickets cost $10 for children ages 6-12, $20 for adults and $17 for students, seniors and teens. Bus tour tickets cost $26 for children ages 6-12, $35 for adults and $32 for students, seniors and teens. Tickets are non-refundable. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended.
Visitors can see all the historical highlights of Boston and Cambridge on the 60-minute narrated Charles Riverboat Tour. The tour includes sites along the Charles River Basin such as Esplanade Park, Beacon Hill, Boston University and the Back Bay, as
Visitors can see all the historical highlights of Boston and Cambridge on the 60-minute narrated Charles Riverboat Tour. The tour includes sites along the Charles River Basin such as Esplanade Park, Beacon Hill, Boston University and the Back Bay, as well as the river's seven historic bridges.
Charles Riverboat Tours offers custom charters and cruise packages. Cruises depart Saturday and Sunday in May and daily, June to August, at 11:30 AM, 12:45 PM, 2 PM, 3:15 PM and 4:30PM. Tour tickets are $6 for children, $13 for adults and $10 for seniors.
Home of major league baseball's Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park dates back to 1912, making it the oldest stadium in the major leagues. Though the park offered the smallest seating capacity for years, it has recently steadily increased its space to nearly
Home of major league baseball's Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park dates back to 1912, making it the oldest stadium in the major leagues. Though the park offered the smallest seating capacity for years, it has recently steadily increased its space to nearly 39,000 seats in 2007 and plans to increase seating to almost 40,000 by 2012.
Park visitors not only enjoy watching the 2007 World Series Champions play, but can also see numerous features unique to this ballpark. The Green Monster, a 37-foot-high wall in left field, is the highest wall among MLB fields, notorious for preventing line drives that might clear shorter heights. The lone red seat in the right field bleachers marks Ted William's 502-foot-long drive, the longest measurable home run hit at Fenway's 1934 structure. Oak seats and a manually-operated scoreboard add to the park's historic charm. Guests can take guided tours of the park that include stops at the Press Box, State Street Pavilion Box, Red Sox Hall of Fame plaques and the oldest seats in major league history.
The Boston Red Sox season runs April to September. Single game ticket prices start at $12 for the upper bleachers. Fenway Park Tours run off season from 9 AM to 3 PM and in season from 9 AM to 4 PM or three-and-a-half hours before game time. Tours cost $10 for children, $12 for adults and $11 for seniors. Group rates are available.
Visitors need not be overwhelmed by the number of must-see historic sites in Boston, as the Freedom Trail Foundation provides several tours of the Boston's most famous landmarks, from museums to meeting houses to burying grounds. The Freedom Trail
Visitors need not be overwhelmed by the number of must-see historic sites in Boston, as the Freedom Trail Foundation provides several tours of the Boston's most famous landmarks, from museums to meeting houses to burying grounds. The Freedom Trail itself is a 2.5-mile, red-brick stretch that visits 16 Revolutionary era sites, including the Boston Common, King's Chapel, Old State House, the site of the Boston Massacre, Paul Revere House and the Bunker Hill Monument. Several 90-minute public tours are offered in various themes, such as the Walk into History Tour and the Historic Pub Crawl. Group tours are also available. Tour schedules and prices vary based on type.
As a self-proclaimed "homage to Sinatra," Lucky's Lounge has a laidback attitude and retro-style dcor that have made it a hotspot for Boston locals for years. Guests can enjoy a moderately-sized menu that includes marinated steak tips and seared
As a self-proclaimed "homage to Sinatra," Lucky's Lounge has a laidback attitude and retro-style dcor that have made it a hotspot for Boston locals for years. Guests can enjoy a moderately-sized menu that includes marinated steak tips and seared spicy ahi tuna, but many prefer to skip right to the wine and cocktail selections. Specialty cocktails include Lady Luck, a raspberry vodka, raspberry liqueur, lime juice and Sprite concoction, and the Pumpkin Spice Martini, a blend of vanilla vodka with pumpkin spice liqueur and cream. Live entertainment runs Thursday through Saturday night, and Sunday evenings the Al Vega Trio performs a tribute to Old Blue Eyes from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM as part of "Sinatra Sunday."
Lucky's Lounge is available for group accommodations. The lounge's kitchen is open Monday through Wednesday from 11 AM to 11 PM, Thursday and Saturday from 11 AM to midnight, Saturday from 6 PM to midnight and Sunday from 10 AM to midnight. Lunch entrees range from $7 to $15 and dinner entrees range from $10 to $21. Sinatra Sunday Brunch selections range from $7 to $12.
Encompassing eight blocks from the Boston Public Garden to Brookline Avenue, Newbury Street is lined with historic 19th century brownstones that house hundreds of boutiques, shops and restaurants ranging from upscale and elegant to quaint and
Encompassing eight blocks from the Boston Public Garden to Brookline Avenue, Newbury Street is lined with historic 19th century brownstones that house hundreds of boutiques, shops and restaurants ranging from upscale and elegant to quaint and affordable. Shoppers can stop by specialty stores such as the Boston Baked Bean or high-end chains such as Marc Jacobs. Paved sidewalks adorned with beautiful landscaping, large storefront windows, spectacular architecture and uniquely defined shops have made Newbury Street one of the nicest shopping areas in Boston.
Founded in Boston in 1985, Boston Beer Company brews the beers sold under the well-known Samuel Adams brand. Beginning with the introduction of Samuel Adams Boston Lager in the 1970s, the brand has expanded to 12 varieties year-round, including
Founded in Boston in 1985, Boston Beer Company brews the beers sold under the well-known Samuel Adams brand. Beginning with the introduction of Samuel Adams Boston Lager in the 1970s, the brand has expanded to 12 varieties year-round, including Cherry Wheat, Boston Ale, Black Lager and Irish Red, in addition to five seasonal brews. Guests can visit the Samuel Adams Brewery for a one-hour tour where they can learn the history of the beer, see the brew process from start to finish, and sample the various beer styles.
Tours run Tuesday through Thursday every 45 minutes from 10 AM to 3 PM, Friday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Private tours can be arranged for large groups. Admission is by suggested donation of $2 with all proceeds given to local charity.
Meaning "wine festival" in Latin, Vinalia certainly lives up to its name. Located in the heart of Downtown Crossing, this lounge and wine bar boasts a 2,500-bottle collection with over 150 varieties, which can be sampled in one of Vinalia's weekly
Meaning "wine festival" in Latin, Vinalia certainly lives up to its name. Located in the heart of Downtown Crossing, this lounge and wine bar boasts a 2,500-bottle collection with over 150 varieties, which can be sampled in one of Vinalia's weekly wine tastings. For non-oenophiles, the bar offers liquor and beer cocktails, including the Fallen Apple, a mixture of vodka, apple pucker, apple cider and a cinnamon-sugared rim, and the Vinalia Black Cosack made of Guinness and Stoli vanilla vodka. A bar menu, full of small, mouth-watering selections such as mini burgers and wild mushroom bruschetta, is available Monday through Friday from 3 AM to 6 PM. Guests with bigger appetites can visit Vinalia restaurant, where entrees are priced under $20.
Vinalia has various rooms that can accommodate groups of 30 to 300 people. In total, the restaurant and lobbies can accommodate 1,000 people. Vinalia is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 to 2 AM and Saturday from 5 PM to 2 AM.
Atlantic Fish has been a go-to stop for fresh seafood in Boston since its opening in 1978. Its detailed wood-paneled interior, reminiscent of marine vessels, and beautiful sea-themed murals hint at a menu made up of quality seafood selections and
Atlantic Fish has been a go-to stop for fresh seafood in Boston since its opening in 1978. Its detailed wood-paneled interior, reminiscent of marine vessels, and beautiful sea-themed murals hint at a menu made up of quality seafood selections and catches of the day. Menu items change daily to ensure freshness, but favorites such as award-winning New England clam chowder, Maine lobster pot pie and baked stuffed Maine lobster are almost always available. Atlantic Fish also features a raw bar and impressive wine and cocktail lists, and an outdoor patio invites diners during the spring and summer to enjoy the bustling scene along Boylston Street.
Atlantic Fish is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 AM to 11 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to midnight and Sunday from 11:30 AM to 11 PM. Lunch entrees range from $13 to $79 and dinner entrees range from $23 to $79.
Located in the North End neighborhood, this elegant Italian restaurant boasts some of the best tables for people watching in the city, but its greatest draw is the impressive and innovative menu. Small plates and appetizers are ideal for groups
Located in the North End neighborhood, this elegant Italian restaurant boasts some of the best tables for people watching in the city, but its greatest draw is the impressive and innovative menu. Small plates and appetizers are ideal for groups seeking a tapas-style meal, while numerous delectable entrees are available for those looking for a more traditional dining experience. Specialties include stuffed lobster, Kurabuta pork tenderloin, and Mezzelune, sausage-and-chicken stuffed ravioli.
Private dining space is available on the mezzanine level for groups of up to 50 people. Bricco serves dinner daily from 5 PM to close. Entrees range from $19 to $42.
Cheers pub has two Boston locations, one in Beacon Hill and one in Faneuil Hall. Originally opened as Bull & Finch Pub in 1969, Cheers Beacon Hill's warm and cozy atmosphere was the inspiration for the immensely popular sitcom by the same name, and
Cheers pub has two Boston locations, one in Beacon Hill and one in Faneuil Hall. Originally opened as Bull & Finch Pub in 1969, Cheers Beacon Hill's warm and cozy atmosphere was the inspiration for the immensely popular sitcom by the same name, and its faade is pictured in the opening scenes of the television show. It is Cheers Faneuil Hall, though, that was later built with an interior that replicates the series' set. Many of the bar's offerings reflect the shows popular characters, including the sandwiches in Fraiser's Favorites, salads in Woody's Garden Goodies and the eNORMous Burgers, a selection of turkey, veggie and beef burgers served with a variety of toppings. Signature drinks and draft and bottled beers are available and can be purchased in a signature Cheers mug.
Both Cheers locations are open daily from 11 AM to close. Entrees range from $10 to $19.
Located in Beacon Hill, No. 9 Park has been lauded for its elegant atmosphere and sophisticated cuisine since its opening in 1998. With a spot on Boston Magazine's 25 Best Places to Eat Right Now, the restaurant is housed in a spacious townhouse
Located in Beacon Hill, No. 9 Park has been lauded for its elegant atmosphere and sophisticated cuisine since its opening in 1998. With a spot on Boston Magazine's 25 Best Places to Eat Right Now, the restaurant is housed in a spacious townhouse decked out with dark wood floors and earth-toned walls. Favorite dinner items include wild striped bass with truffle jus and duet of Pekin duck with barley and black trumpets. Desserts such as passion fruit souffl and chocolate and cardamom mousse are a perfect way to end a sumptuous meal, while a glass of wine from No. 9's list of French, Italian, American and select Austrian and German wines is a great way to start the night. Diners can also order the chef's tasting menu, which changes daily.
No. 9 Park serves dinner Monday through Saturday from 5:30 to 10 PM. Dinner entrees range from $34 to $40. Reservations are recommended. Restaurant parking is limited, but valet parking is available after 5 PM for $16 per car.
Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of downtown on an indistinct side street, this retro bar and grill is very popular with locals. Though the wait for a table has been known to exceed an hour, professionals consistently choose Silvertone as their
Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of downtown on an indistinct side street, this retro bar and grill is very popular with locals. Though the wait for a table has been known to exceed an hour, professionals consistently choose Silvertone as their post-work watering hole. Antique photographs and knickknacks line the walls of the bar's 1940s-style interior, and vintage music echoes among the diners. Menu favorites include delicious comfort foods such as pork chops with parmesan and pea mashed potatoes, spaghetti Bolognese, and shepherd's pie. Known for its affordability, Silvertone offers an impressive wine list with most bottles priced only $10 over cost.
A private dining room is available for group accommodations of up to 65 people. Silvertone Bar & Grill is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 to 2 AM and Saturday from 6 PM to 2 AM. Entrees range from $10 to $20.
Massachusetts Avenue is home to Boston's only fondue and wine restaurant. Brick walls, cast-iron fixtures and historic Boston-themed murals give the impression of dining in an authentic wine cellar. Non-fondue menu items such as smoked salmon
Massachusetts Avenue is home to Boston's only fondue and wine restaurant. Brick walls, cast-iron fixtures and historic Boston-themed murals give the impression of dining in an authentic wine cellar. Non-fondue menu items such as smoked salmon medallions and rack of lamb are available, though its inspired fondue creations are not to be missed. Cheese fondues include Formaggio of mozzarella and gruyre mixed with roast peppers and Traditional Gorgonzola of emmental, gruyre and gorgonzola with Italian parsley. The unique Crazy French fondue includes marinated kangaroo, ostrich filet and rabbit loin with olive oil, and Coastal fondue is made up of tiger shrimp and scallops with white wine, dill and garlic; fondue entrees can be cooked in Latin, French or Courbouillion styles. No visit to the Cellar would be complete without a glass from its wine list, which received the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence two years in a row.
The Wine Cellar is available for group accommodations. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 to 10:30 PM. Fondue entrees range from $23 to $80, depending on serving size. Non-fondue entrees range from $23 to $32.
This 145-seat restaurant and 190-seat lounge located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower offers breathtaking views of the Boston skyline. Chef Mark J. Porcaro and team have created an outstanding menu reflecting a blend of New England classics
This 145-seat restaurant and 190-seat lounge located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower offers breathtaking views of the Boston skyline. Chef Mark J. Porcaro and team have created an outstanding menu reflecting a blend of New England classics and contemporary cuisine. The menu changes seasonally to showcase the highest quality meats and freshest New England seafood, including Boston lobsters and New England clam chowder. Live jazz and dancing round out a spectacular meal.
The restaurant offers group accommodations for 15 to 60 guests. Top of the Hub is open daily from 11:30 to 1 AM. Lunch prix fixe selections ranges from $22 to $24 and dinner entrees range from $27 to $48.
A hidden gem located in the heart of Harvard Square, Z Square Restaurant & Bar boasts creative American home cooking in a relaxed atmosphere. Favorites include curried crab cakes with orange-pineapple relish; chicken, sausage and shellfish paella;
A hidden gem located in the heart of Harvard Square, Z Square Restaurant & Bar boasts creative American home cooking in a relaxed atmosphere. Favorites include curried crab cakes with orange-pineapple relish; chicken, sausage and shellfish paella; and the Wursthaus Special of three grilled sausages, mashed new potatoes and braised red cabbages. The Z-Square bar also offers small menu selections for sharing and an impressive martini list. Guests short on time can stop upstairs at the Z-Square caf, which offers pastries, crpes, soups, salads and cold sandwiches.
Group accommodations are available for up to 50 people in Z-Square's private dining room. Z Square is open Monday through Saturday from 8 to 1 AM and Sunday from 8 AM to 10 PM. Lunch entrees range from $8 to $14 and dinner entrees range from $16 to $30.
Founded in 1913, the Boston Children's Museum aims to help children understand and enjoy the world in which they live. The museum features over 10 permanent exhibits, including Arthur and Friends, where children can interact with their favorite
Founded in 1913, the Boston Children's Museum aims to help children understand and enjoy the world in which they live. The museum features over 10 permanent exhibits, including Arthur and Friends, where children can interact with their favorite characters from the Arthur show; KidStage, a kid-sized performance stage; and New Balance Climb, a three-story climbing structure. The museum also houses over 50,000 objects in its collection of cultural and natural history specimens.
Recently, Boston Children's Museum underwent a $47 million renovation and became the first green museum in Boston. Eco-friendly updates included a storm water reclamation system and use of recycled, local, low-emitting building materials.
The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM and Friday until 9 PM. It is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission is $2 for children age 1, $8 for children ages 2-15, $10 for adults and $8 for seniors ages 65 and older.
Founded in 1913, the Franklin Park Zoo stretches across 72 acres of land. Located in Franklin Park, known as the "crown jewel" of the Parks of the Emerald Necklace, the zoo features hundreds of exotic animals from around the world. Ostriches and
Founded in 1913, the Franklin Park Zoo stretches across 72 acres of land. Located in Franklin Park, known as the "crown jewel" of the Parks of the Emerald Necklace, the zoo features hundreds of exotic animals from around the world. Ostriches and zebras inhabit the four-acre Serengeti Crossing Exhibit and kangaroos, emus and sheep call the Outback Trail home. With the 2006 opening of Tiger Tales, the zoo welcomed tigers to the facility for the first time in 30 years. Also, after renovations in 2007, the Tropical Forest Exhibit has become an intimate experience that allows visitors to stand face-to-face with gorillas.
The zoo has various outdoor and indoor venues for group accommodations. Franklin Park Zoo is open Monday through Friday, April 1 to September 30, from 10 AM to 5 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM. It is open daily, October 1 to March 31, from 10 AM to 4 PM. The zoo is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission is $6 for children ages 2-12, $11 for adults and $9.50 for seniors ages 62 and older. Admission for children under 2 is free. Zoo parking is complimentary.
Designed to reconnect Bostonians with their waterfront while providing an educational experience, the New England Aquarium opened in June 1969. Each year over 1.5 million people visit the aquarium's various attractions, which include a 200,000-gallon
Designed to reconnect Bostonians with their waterfront while providing an educational experience, the New England Aquarium opened in June 1969. Each year over 1.5 million people visit the aquarium's various attractions, which include a 200,000-gallon Giant Ocean Tank with sharks, turtles and a colorful coral reef; the Marcia Simons IMAX Theatre; and the New England Aquarium Whale Watch, a voyage to whale feeding grounds 30 miles east of Boston. The aquarium also features three levels of exhibits such as the Freshwater Gallery featuring piranhas, anacondas and electric eels and the Tropical Gallery, which houses vibrant tropical fish and the venomous lionfish and scorpionfish.
The aquarium is available for private events. New England Aquarium is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM. Whale Watch hours vary by season. General admission is $10.95 for children ages 3-11 and $18.95 for adults. IMAX tickets cost $7.95 for children ages 3-11 and $9.95 for adults. Whale Watch tickets cost $29.95 for children ages 11 and under and $35.95 for adults. The aquarium offers validated parking at nearby lots.
Production company 5W!TS takes visitors on a unique, interactive trip back in time to ancient Egypt. Visitors travel in groups of 15 people through a pharaoh's tomb and burial chamber at an archeological dig site, solving mental and physical hands-on
Production company 5W!TS takes visitors on a unique, interactive trip back in time to ancient Egypt. Visitors travel in groups of 15 people through a pharaoh's tomb and burial chamber at an archeological dig site, solving mental and physical hands-on challenges, which change with each trip. Over 150 sounds and illusions are incorporated in the 45-minute-long theme show and game. Combining the excitement of a theme park, electrifying thrill of a haunted house and suspense of an adventure book, this one-of-a-kind experience entices both children and adults. 5W!TS plans to produce various shows, and in 2008 a spy-themed adventure replaces TOMB.
Private reservations are available. 5W!TS is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 AM to 7 PM, Wednesday and Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 11 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 7 PM. Tickets are $16 for children ages 12 and under and $20 for adults.
Starting at the Museum of African American History, the Black Heritage Trail twists and turns through Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood, highlighting more than 15 pre-Civil War structures and sites. The trail is made up of important schools, houses
Starting at the Museum of African American History, the Black Heritage Trail twists and turns through Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood, highlighting more than 15 pre-Civil War structures and sites. The trail is made up of important schools, houses and 66 Phillips Street, a well-known stop on the Underground Railroad. Tourists visit the Abiel Smith School, the first building in the United States built to serve as a school for black children, and the African Meeting House, the oldest black church building in the nation still standing. The meeting house, which recently underwent at $4.5 million restoration project, was also home to notable events including the founding of the New England Anti-Slavery Society in 1832 by William Lloyd Garrison and Frederick Douglass' anti-slavery speech in 1860.
Black Heritage Trail tours are offered daily, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, at 10 AM, noon and 2 PM. During the winter, tours are available by special request. Maps are available for self-guided tours. Admission is free.
The Boston Common dates back to 1634, making it one of the oldest public parks in the United States. Over the course of history, the park has served many purposes: a cow pasture during the 1630s; a camp for British troops before the Revolutionary
The Boston Common dates back to 1634, making it one of the oldest public parks in the United States. Over the course of history, the park has served many purposes: a cow pasture during the 1630s; a camp for British troops before the Revolutionary War; a site for public hangings until 1817; and a gathering place for hundreds of Vietnam War protestors in 1965. Today, the 50-acre park is the starting point of the Freedom Trail and acts as the anchor for the Emerald Necklace, a 1,100-acre chain of parks in Massachusetts.
During winter months, guests can ice skate on the Frog Pond, while spring, summer and fall months are ideal times to stroll the park's several monuments, including the Parkman Bandstand, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial and the Brewer Fountain. The Boston Common also serves as home to the Central Burying Ground, where artist Gilbert Stuart and Boston restaurateur Jean Baptiste Julien are interred.
Designed to encourage the public to enjoy the clean and restored Boston Harbor, the HarborWalk stretches nearly 47 miles through Boston's downtown area and waterfront neighborhoods, extending from Chelsea Creek to the Neponset River. The HarborWalk
Designed to encourage the public to enjoy the clean and restored Boston Harbor, the HarborWalk stretches nearly 47 miles through Boston's downtown area and waterfront neighborhoods, extending from Chelsea Creek to the Neponset River. The HarborWalk creates an inviting setting for the public with art, seating areas, cafes, exhibit areas, water transportation facilities and much more. Visitors can pick up the path at various places throughout the city to go boating, ride a bike, fish, swim or simply enjoy the scenery at the HarborWalk.
Recently opened in 2007, Chinatown Park was built to commemorate the passage of Asian immigrants and their influence on the city's culture. Based on the design ideas of Feng Shui, the park features gates, stones streams and plants sprawling across
Recently opened in 2007, Chinatown Park was built to commemorate the passage of Asian immigrants and their influence on the city's culture. Based on the design ideas of Feng Shui, the park features gates, stones streams and plants sprawling across one acre at the gateway to Chinatown. The park's pavement is patterned after a Chinese chessboard, whose square in a circle design represents heaven and earth. The park will serve to host cultural events and Chinese New Year celebrations, and is an ideal spot to relax among Chinese cherry, bamboo, willow, azaleas and peonies before enjoying an authentic Chinese meal at one of the numerous cafes.
Established to protect, restore and maintain the landscape, waterways and parkways of Boston, the Emerald Necklace Conservancy is made up of six parks that comprise half of the city's park acreage. Designed by America's first landscape architect
Established to protect, restore and maintain the landscape, waterways and parkways of Boston, the Emerald Necklace Conservancy is made up of six parks that comprise half of the city's park acreage. Designed by America's first landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmsted, Sr., the Emerald Necklace is characterized by vast green spaces, glassy rivers and ponds and a wide range of plants and wildlife.
The largest of the parks at 527 acres, Franklin Park offers over 15 miles of walking and horseback riding trails to explore. The parks are also home to the 18-hole William J. Devine course, the 2nd oldest public golf course in the United States, and Arnold Arboretum, America's first public arboretum. Peter's Hill, the highest point in the Necklace, offers spectacular views of the Boston skyline. Other popular park attractions include Scarboro Pond, Ellicot Arch and the Franklin Park Zoo.
Located in the 24-acre Boston Public Garden, the Swan Boats are a Boston tradition. Known for their appearance in stories such as Trumpet of the Swan and Make Way for Ducklings, the Swan Boats have been providing joy to all who ride them for over
Located in the 24-acre Boston Public Garden, the Swan Boats are a Boston tradition. Known for their appearance in stories such as Trumpet of the Swan and Make Way for Ducklings, the Swan Boats have been providing joy to all who ride them for over 120 years. While these foot-propelled, paddle-wheel catamarans could originally only hold eight, today the boats can hold up to as many as 20 passengers. Each 15-minute ride gives guests a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.
Swan Boat rides are offered daily, mid-April to mid-September. Hours vary based on season. Boat fares are $1.25 for children ages 2-15, $2.75 for adults and $2 for seniors.
