BOSTON SIGHTSEEING

Boston is a fun and dynamic city, with all you would expect from a modern metropolis but with the added bonus of numerous historical attractions to be enjoyed.

For detailed information on things to do visit www.bostonusa.com or www.cityofboston.gov/visitors. Once in town, the Boston Common Visitor Information Center at 147, Tremont Street (nearest subway Park Street Station), is open daily.

Sightseeing:
Boston is best seen on foot and a fun and informative “must-see” is the historic
Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile self-guided tour of 16 historical sites. Maps are available at the Boston Common Information Center (see above). Guided tours (both on foot and by trolley) can also be arranged.

Other attractions include the fun and “original” Boston Duck Tours (www.bostonducktours.com), and the New England Aquarium (www.neaq.org). A stroll along the Waterfront, from South Station to the North End, is a pleasant excursion.

For those in search of open spaces, the Public Gardens and Boston Common are havens from the hustle and bustle of the city.

On the water, various operators offer harbor sightseeing cruises, whale watching excursions and ferries to the 34 harbor islands, where cycling, hiking, swimming and bird watching are popular activities. While reservations are not required, it is advisable to book in advance for whale watching trips as they are very popular.

Sports: Fenway Park is the home of the Red Sox. For tickets book in advance at their website (www.redsox.mlb.com).

Shopping:
As would be expected, Boston has great shopping. Elegant Newbury Street is the main shopping area, full of boutique and designer stores. Downtown offers Macy's and Filene's basement (ideal for bargain hunters!). Copley Square offers both chain and high end stores, while Faneuil Hall is a very popular and vibrant market place with over 100 shops and carts, from chain stores to souvenirs, various dining opportunities and street performers.

Restaurants & Nightlife:
With its coastal location, seafood is a Boston speciality. The Union Oyster House (www.unionoysterhouse.com) is America's oldest restaurant. Chic South End offers trendy cafes and restaurants while North End is Boston's “Little Italy.” Boston is also home to the nation's first Chinatown, where restaurants are open until 3 or 4 a.m. For those of you who know where the UK ka-bloomies eat when they meet up, did you know that there are only two Wagamamas in the USA - and they are both in Boston (www.wagamama.us)?

For nightclubs, visit the area around Lansdowne Street. Numerous bars are found in Faneuil Hall and the Bull and Finch pub (the inspiration for TV's “Cheers) is located on Beacon Street. For sports enthusiasts, the area around Fenway Park offers a number of popular sports bars.

Enjoy your stay!