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Boston, Massachusetts is one of the best cities to visit in the United States not only because it holds a lot of America's history but also because it is a "walking city." There are a lot of exciting things to see and do and many sites are centrally located, within walking distance of each other.
One way to view this historical city that is America's birthplace is to take a sightseeing tour by trolley or walk along the Freedom Trail. This popular tourist attraction is actually a red line painted on the sidewalk which meanders through Boston covering many important historical places such as the Old North Church where lanterns were hung "one if by land, two if by sea" during the famous ride of Paul Revere and the site of the Boston Massacre.
Boston's Freedom Trail has several burial grounds along the way in which there are some signers of the Declaration of Independence laid to rest as well as the woman who was known as Mother Goose.
The Freedom Trail also passes through the Boston Common and Fanueil Hall -- which has served as a meeting place since the 1700's when Samuel Adams and other patriots were moving towards the Revolutionary War -- and is now also a fabulous place to both shop and dine. Food stations have almost every kind of food imaginable including delicious bakeries and ice cream. There is also a large number of stores to choose from including pushcart vendors selling all sorts of unusual things as well as your basic Boston souvenirs. If you want to experience Boston, Fanueil Hall should definitely be a stop on your list.
While near the Boston Common don't miss the Public Garden across the street (ask a passerby in which direction to walk). There you will find the Swan Boats (which you can ride on for a few dollars) in warmer weather and a very beautiful setting all year round. A ride on the swan boats is ideal for the kids (they love feeding the ducks in the pond and are usually amazed by the entire concept of the swan boat). However, romantics visiting Boston should not miss the Public Garden either as it is the perfect place to sit, chat and do what couples do and is a frequent place for proposals and even a wedding now and then.
If you didn't do enough shopping at Fanueil Hall, a side trip to Boston's Dowtown Crossing is recommended. Here you will find the famous original Filene's Basement department store where the automatic markdown program ensures bargains galore!
The best way to get around in Boston is by public transportation which is run by the MBTA better known as "The T" to most Bostonians. The T sells visitor passes at fair prices and taking advantage of this will allow you to see even more sites. To venture outside of Boston, take the T to Cambridge and visit Harvard Square. In addition to the prestigious school located there, Harvard University, there is always something interesting to see and do in Harvard Square.
Lastly, I would recommend skipping the John Hancock Building observatory. It can be disappointing. An alternative insider tip: for a really great view of Boston's skyline, check it out from Logan Airport. Harborside Drive at Logan Airport is a great place to view the city and take photos of the skyline against the water of Boston Harbor. At night it is especially breathtaking. Enjoy this fine city!
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