Things to do in Boston
This quaint and quirky city is the ideal place for those on a budget. Most of its attractions are free and it is compact and easy to get around without missing out on anything.
Boston is one of America's oldest cities, having been founded in 1630, and has historical surprises around many of its corners ? some of the streets are still cobblestone-lined and gas lit in a homage to the Brahmins who once ran the city.
This historical side is one of the must-sees and a good way to begin your visit. Helpfully, sites of historical importance are marked by a red line on the pavement, called the Freedom Trail, which will lead you from one to another of the key sites downtown and in Charlestown.
The trail, which has a foundation that protects it, has been running now for 50 years. The foundation runs cheap tours of the trail, which are a fantastic way of seeing the sites and a great place to start.
If you are in the mood for museums, head for the Boston Natural Historic Park, which has free guided tours. Its visitor centre is also a helpful place to know, as you can find brochures here of the city's top attractions as well as being a convenient restroom stop.
The National Heritage Museum is a series of exhibitions, telling the story of American life across four centuries and the struggles and achievements that have gone with it. And Boston is certainly the place to soak in some history, having played a pivotal role during the American revolution.
An entirely incidental attraction of the city that has grown up ? perhaps because it seems in keeping with the cobbled streets ? are the markets. Quincy market and the weekend Haymarket burst with food stalls and street entertainers that will keep even the most culinarily ill-educated fascinated by browsing. Alongside this, Quincy market turns into one of the hottest spots with the students for night time drinking, so it could be a good place to check out.
For a respite from the action, the Public Garden is a haven amid the bustle. You can pet the statues of Mrs Mallard and her ducklings before you take a trip in a person-powered swan boat.
TV fans may want to take a glance at the Cheers bar. Located on 84 Beacon Street, the queues are apparently long and many find the interior disappointing, but at least you can say you've been?
It is impossible to leave Boston without taking in Harvard Square. Known for being a hangout for the contrasting crowds of skater kids and 'tweedy professors', there are more bookshops per square block than in any other place in America. Here, too, is the Chessmaster, who will give you a game for just two dollars and refund the money if you beat him ? a fairly unlikely scenario.
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Things to Do
