Top 10 Sights to See in Boston

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Boston city is the capital of Massachusetts, found in the northeast of America. It’s a historically rich place that was founded by English Puritans in 1630. There are so many things to enjoy in Boston, whether you’re a local, a tourist, or a traveler. To help you plan your next trip let’s take a look at the top ten sights to see in Boston.

1 . The Museum Of Fine Arts Boston

The Museum of Fine Arts Boston was founded back in 1870. It’s now one of the largest art museums in the whole world, home to almost 500,000 pieces of art. Each year the museum welcomes over a million visitors, here; you’ll find a wide variety of exhibitions including Contemporary, Egyptian Art, Murals, Black History, and more. There’s been much expansion of the museum in recent years, and new collections are often added. As well as the collections and exhibitions, there are various programs in performance art, film, and music. Events are subject to change throughout the year, and more details of the current programs are available on the museum website.

2. The Freedom Trail 

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile trail that leads to 16 different historical sites. The trail was dedicated by the Boston people back in 1951; it’s a collection of meeting houses, burying grounds, historical markers, parks, and museums. Together these authentic sites tell enthralling stories about American history. The Walk Into History tour is one of the most popular experiences on the trail; the tour is mostly themed on revolutionary history. You’ll walk through Boston Common, just opposite the famous Suffolk University. Along the tour you’ll also see Massachusetts State House, King’s Chapel, and more! 

3. Faneuil Hall 

Faneuil Hall is a bustling marketplace, here there are 70 + retailers, with a wide range of unique and beautiful shops. You can also sample delicious food at the pubs, restaurants, or the renowned Quincy Market Colonnade. Faneuil Hall has a unique and delightful atmosphere, with street performers and music that fills that promenade. The marketplace comprises four areas: the South Market, the North Market, Quincy Market, and Faneuil Hall. The hall was constructed in 1742 by Peter Faneuil, the wealthiest merchant in Boston. To get yourself some beautiful souvenirs from Boston, Faneuil Hall is the perfect place!

4. The Museum Of Science Boston 

At The Museum Of Science Boston, you can explore exhibits in astronomy, ecology, biology, chemistry, and more. One of the most famous exhibits includes a fossil from the Dakota Badlands (that’s over 65 million years old)! There’s also a planetarium with daily star and laser shows. The museum offers a huge range of exhibitions that are suitable for all ages. Recent exhibitions include ‘Wicked Smart,’ a showcase of local inventions that changed life as we know it. The ‘Hall Of Human Life’ exhibition is a fantastic one to gain a deeper understanding of biology. At The Museum of Science Boston, you’ll learn plenty of new things and have yourself a leisurely day out.

5. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

The Museum was built in memory of JFK, the thirty-fifth president of America. The site includes historical exhibits, three theatres, photographs, and memorabilia, all documenting John.F Kennedy's life, including his time in the presidency. These exhibits cover a wide range of themes, including the Kennedy family, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, the Oval Office, and the presidential campaign trail. The museum and library was designed and built by I.M.Pei & Partners. It took over 225 laborers to construct I.M. Pei’s architectural vision. Pei was a fairly new architect who was yet to attempt monumental projects. Nevertheless, the building turned out a real architectural gem.

6. Boston Greenway 

The Boston Greenway is a mile of lush green parks and outdoor hang out spots. Take a leisurely stroll from Chinatown Gate down to the iconic Zakim Bridge. It’s the perfect place for walking, taking in the atmosphere, or having a bite to eat at the street food stalls. The Greenway links the Italian North End district, to Chinatown, with Faneuil Marketplace along the way. Tourists will likely enjoy the Boston Greenway walking tour, it starts at the North End Parks, just opposite the Boston Public Market. There’s a large steel pergola that runs across both parks, framing the skyline of the city. For a relaxing day soaking up the Boston atmosphere, a walk down the Boston Greenway is just what you need.

7. Crane Beach 

Perhaps you fancy a break from all that sightseeing? If so, head on down to Crane Beach. The beach stretches along either side of Castle Neck; it’s one of the most beautiful beaches for swimming in the whole of New England. The beach has been voted the best beach in Boston several times; locals and tourists come from all over to enjoy the gentle surf and the gorgeous white sands. Wildlife fans will love Crane Beach; the salt marshes attract everything from otters to myriad birds and deer. Experiencing beautiful beaches and relaxing away from work is exactly why we travel!

8. Fenway Park 

Baseball fans won’t want to miss catching a glimpse of Fenway Park; it’s the oldest park in Major League Baseball. Here you can check out a Red Sox game or grab a drink at one of the pubs along Lansdowne Street. The ballpark has been the home of the Boston Red Sox since back in 1912. In 1934 the stadium was rebuilt, and the park has undergone many small renovations throughout the years. The facility has been host to the World Series several times, and the Red Sox have won a total of six WW games. The site has also hosted other sporting events, including hockey games, football games, and political campaigns.

9. New England Aquarium 

The New England Aquarium is one of the global leaders in marine conservation and ocean exploration, welcoming over 1.3 million people each year. Animal lovers and families will have an amazing time exploring here; there’s a huge circular tank where you can view marine life as you stroll. The aquarium has penguins, green turtles, the giant Pacific octopus, seals, balloon fish, and so much more! You can also take part in whale-watching excursions at the aquarium or check out the IMAX theatre. There are plenty of exhibitions too, depending on what time of year you visit.

10. Food Tours 

Boston has plenty of delicious food tours to offer, including the famous ‘Boston Foodie Tours.’ The tour takes visitors through Back Bay and Beacon Hill, two of Boston's most charming areas. You’ll get to sample foods from highly regarded restaurants, tasting delicious pastas, gourmet desserts, street foods, and more. The tour company is owned locally by a culinary school grad and Boston native. The tour has a focus on culinary education, award-winning food spots, and the foodie history of the city. 

The tour begins with a light lunch, courtesy of award winner Lydia Shire. More often than not, Lydia serves her legendary lobster pizza. At your next foodie stop, you’ll get to sample some of the most delicious cheese and wine, followed by a taste of the famous ‘Beat Bobby Flay’ sandwich. Doesn’t sound like your sort of thing? There are plenty of other food tours in Boston, so you’re bound to find something that takes your fancy.

When you’re planning your trip, try creating an itinerary so that you can get organized and make the most of your time in Boston. It’s best to check opening times and policies beforehand. Many leisure facilities have had to adapt their trade due to the coronavirus.

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This post was written with the Life According to Steph audience in mind