Port of Call: Boston
Boston is known by many names, such as “Beantown,” the “Cradle of Liberty” and even “The Hub of the Universe.” With such distinctive titles, many are surprised to find out it’s a mid-sized city, with some of the best stops found within a 20-minute stroll.
Park West Gallery loves to hold VIP events in the city, and with such a rich history, there is plenty to do and see, regardless of whether you’re visiting during a cruise or simply checking out one of America’s most famous cities.
The Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts. Photo courtesy of kensingtonboston.com.
The museum is one of the largest in the United States, containing more than 450,000 works. Originally opened in 1876, the museum has undergone recent expansions from 2010 to 2013, including an Art of America wing, the Linde Family Wing for Contemporary Art and European, Asian and African art galleries. More than one million people visit the museum a year, making it the 55th most-visited art museum in the world. Click here for more information.
Freedom Trail
“USA-The Freedom Trail” by Ingfbruno – Own work. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
With Boston’s reputation as a walking city, Freedom Trail is one of the best ways to explore the city’s historic roots. The 2.5 mile trail takes walkers to 16 historical sites in a matter of two or three hours, including the Boston Common, Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church on Salem Street, where a sexton hung two lanterns to signal the British would arrive by sea. Take a guided tour or download a map to plan out your own tour.
Boston Common
“Boston Common (2014) IMG 2995” by Billy Hathorn – Own work. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
The Boston Common is a beautiful 50-acre park that shouldn’t be missed. The park started as a campground for British troops during the Revolutionary War, but is now great for picnics, ice skating on Frog Pond in the winter, Shakespeare in the park and even concerts. The free park offers plenty of walking paths and structures to enjoy as well. For beautiful, landscaped grounds, the Boston Public Garden is located near the Common.
The North End
“North End, Boston” by Sfoskett at English Wikipedia – Own work. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
For a blend of history and great food, visit the North End, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Walk down cobblestone streets to dine at fine Italian restaurants, view six of Boston’s publicly accessible artworks like a Paul Revere sculpture, and if you find yourself in the neighborhood during the summer, check out the festivals – known as “feasts” – residents hold to honor patron saints.
Fenway Park
Fenway Park, located at the heart of Boston. Photo courtesy of http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/bos/ballpark/
Known as “America’s most beloved ballpark,” Fenway Park is a great destination for baseball and history fans alike. If baseball season is in full swing, catch a game in bleachers or in the park’s Bleacher Bar, which offers a unique view of centerfield. There are also tours of the park itself that allow you to go onto the field, something not every Boston resident can claim they’ve done.
