Boston is a vibrant city that is famous for its historic buildings and museums. It is also a top destination for sports fans and people who love to eat good food.
The city is characterized by a high concentration of ethnic groups and diverse cultural activities. Its neighborhoods have been adapted over time to accommodate different racial and ethnic identities.
1. Faneuil Hall
The Faneuil Hall Marketplace is one of Boston’s most popular destinations, attracting 18 million visitors annually. It is home to over 80 retailers, restaurants and historic taverns.
The marketplace features cobblestone promenades that are filled with music and jaw-dropping routines from world-renowned street performers. It also includes the North and South Markets, which are filled with retail pushcarts and restaurants.
Originally built in 1742 by John Smibert, the marketplace and assembly hall was funded by Peter Faneuil, a wealthy merchant who traded slaves and imported molasses and sugar from Europe. The building was rebuilt after a fire and later expanded by architect Charles Bulfinch.
2. Boston Common
As the oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common has fulfilled a wide variety of functions throughout its history. Initially purchased for livestock grazing by early Puritan leaders, the land was used as a military training field, burying ground, and theater for political action.
Over time, its more utilitarian purposes ultimately yielded to its use for leisure and recreation. In the 20th century, Charles Lindbergh promoted commercial aviation, civil rights rallies were held, and Pope John Paul II gave Mass to a gathered crowd on the Common.
3. Boston Public Library
Whether you’re a local looking for a low-pressure study spot or a tourist seeking a free, self-guided attraction, the Boston Public Library in Copley Square is a great stop. It’s clean and safe, and the building itself is quite beautiful.
The Renaissance Revival building is a museum-like destination that will inspire you to return many times over. It has a gleaming marble foyer, peaceful interior courtyard and hidden gems like the Tea Room, map Room and Kids Corners.
4. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum offers an interactive and immersive way to learn about the American Revolution. It includes holographic exhibits, replica ships and dramatic reenactments by actors that allow you to experience history in a hands-on way.
Located on Griffin’s Wharf, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is an excellent choice for families wanting to learn about America’s historical past.
Start by viewing a film that explores the events that led up to the Boston Tea Party, followed by climbing around model ships that reproduce authentic 18th-century vessels. Then, throw a container of tea into the water to reenact one of the most famous moments in American history!
5. Boston Parks & Gardens
Boston is famous for its parks, and there are plenty of them to explore. These include the nation’s oldest park, Boston Common; America’s first botanical garden, the Public Garden; and Commonwealth Avenue Mall (the city’s newest).
The Common, in particular, is a true people’s park where you can find a wide range of attractions – from Shakespeare shows to strolling around the Freedom Trail – and a great place to sit and watch the action go by. And across Charles Street, the Public Garden boasts a lovely lagoon and Instagram-worthy Make Way for Ducklings statues.
6. Boston Parks & Recreation
The Boston Parks & Recreation Department creates and maintains clean, green, safe, and accessible open space in more than 2,200 acres of park land throughout the city. It also administers a broad range of public programs and employs Boston Park Rangers.
Boston’s parks are a beloved part of the city – they offer space to relax, play, picnic, explore, and more! Our parks cover about 20% of the city, and they have something to offer for everyone.