How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Boston

New England’s largest metropolis is a sophisticated destination boasting a mix of renowned historical sites, world-class museums and galleries, and attractive outdoor attractions and sporting venues. This city truly has plenty to offer just about anyone, from families seeking wholesome fun to honeymooning couples looking for a romantic sojourn.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Partake in Beantown’s legendary pro sports scene by taking in a baseball (Red Sox), basketball (Celtics) or hockey (Bruins) game. These are three of the oldest and most storied franchises in all professional sports, and the Red Sox home, Fenway Park, is definitely one of the most enchanting ballparks in the world.
2. Have an uncommon afternoon at the Boston Common. The lovely park is one of Boson’s most famous sites and perfect for picnicking, listening to live music at Parkman Bandstand or savoring some of the city’s history at sites like the Civil War monument in the middle-north of the park. The Boston Public Gardens lie just west of the Common and are worthwhile to visit as well.
3. Set aside at least two hours for the Museum of Fine Arts on Huntington Avenue. One of the largest museums in America, the MFA showcases a superb collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, works from French masters such as Gauguin, Manet, and Renoir, and much more.
4. Drop by Faneuil Hall, a historic marketplace dating back to the mid eighteenth century and now the city’s most popular attraction. The sprawling complex is comprised of five buildings filled with food courts, boutiques, street performers and pushcart vendors; it's a great place to have a libation, explore a bit and do some people watching.
5. Spend a night out at some of Boston’s down-to-earth taverns. A favorite of visitors is the Bull & Finch Pub, used in exterior shots of the ‘'Cheers'’ television show; while a bit of a tourist trap, fans of Norm, Cliffy and the gang won’t want to miss out on at least a brief stop.
6. Savor one of our nation’s most crucial historical moments by visiting Christ Church (aka '‘the Old North Church'’) on Salem Street. The site where two burning lanterns informed Paul Revere that the British were coming by sea and not land before his famous ride is the oldest cathedral in Boston and regularly offers free tours during the summer; during the other months you must call ahead to schedule.
7. Take a short side trip to neighboring Cambridge, a colorful college town, where the streets are alive with musicians, jugglers and all manner of other street performers. Make sure to stop by Harvard University—the oldest in the U.S.; the adjoining Harvard Square neighborhood offers plenty of shops and cafés frequented by Harvard students and staff.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to bring a camera, as many iconic images await in the '‘Athens of America."