With a planetarium, an IMAX movie theater, a two-story Van de Graaf generator capable of producing high volts of electricity, and several exceptional and informative exhibits, the Museum of Science is truly impressive. Children love the interactive discovery center, Garden Walk and Insect Zoo full of plants and bugs, and the dinosaur exhibit with fossils and life-size models. These and the hundreds of other exhibits make this museum one of Boston's top attractions. This educational and entertaining museum is perfect for the whole family.
Just across Charles Street from the Boston Common, the Public Garden is elegantly landscaped with flower beds, lagoons, walking paths and statues, including a notable monument of George Washington on a horse. Admire the natural beauty and watch as couples pose for their wedding photographs on most summer weekends. The children's story 'Make Way for Ducklings' took place here, and there is a popular sculpture of the ducklings in the northeast corner of the park. A ride on their famous Swan Boats is an essential experience for visitors. Don't forget to visit the Boston Public Garden for a colorful walk with your family or friends!
If you plan on visiting the USS Constitution at the Charlestown Navy Yard, the USS Constitution Museum is a must-see. Come and discover what life was like for the crew that served on Old Ironsides. Take a trip into American history and learn about life on the sea, the Revolution, and the War of 1812. A fun, educational experience for the entire family. Be sure not to miss the gift shop so you can take a piece of history home with you!
President John F. Kennedy's memory is sacred in the minds of many Americans. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum, a glass pavilion designed by Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei, is dedicated to his memory. Visitors are transported back to the darkest days of the Cold War. A short film recounts JFK's deeds in his own words while the authentic photos and exhibits evoke the brief period in White House history that nostalgic Americans refer to as "the days of Camelot".
Established in 1870, Boston's Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) is one of the largest and finest art museums in the United States. This museum's collection is impressive and showcases the work of masters such as Monet and John Singer Sargent. Also, the museum is prominent for its outstanding collections of Impressionist art, early American art and artifacts and Egyptian art. Additionally, this place is a favorite of many for regularly hosting lectures, musical performances, and films. So, come here for a fantastic time and end your visit with a refreshing coffee or a meal at one of the cafes and restaurants inside the museum.
An integral artery of downtown Boston, Freedom Trail is a winding path coursing through some of the most significant landmarks of the country. Dotted along the trail's course is a troupe of sites that have been the brewing grounds for iconic events like the Boston Tea Party and Paul Revere's Midnight Ride. Upheld by the Boston National Historic Park and the Freedom Trail Commission, it is dotted by a tracery of churches, graveyards and buildings commanding monumental significance. Some of the important sites studded on the trail are the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, Old North Church, Old South Meeting House, USS Constitution, Copp's Hill Burial Ground and Paul Revere's House. The trail often commences from Boston Common, meandering up to the Bunker Hill Monument. Voyaging proudly through the city's expanse, the Freedom Trail tells stirring tales of the country's glorious past.
Arnold Arboretum, a botanical garden, located in Jamaica Plain, is the crown jewel in Frederick Law Olmsted's Emerald Necklace, which is the chain of Boston parks that he created. The manicured grounds, under the management of Harvard University, are filled with exotic flora that are tagged with species and genus names for the eager amateur botanist. The annual 'Lilac Sunday' during the second week of May draws thousands of visitors to enjoy the beauty of lilac bushes. Whether you are looking to take a break or learn something new, Arnold Arboretum will surely strike a note in your heart.
Established in 1953, Brattle Theater plays host to an array of alternative film screenings, in addition to book readings and acoustic concerts. Their eclectic schedule features everything from Japanese animation and American classics, to indie and foreign series. Occasionally they organize film festivals and entertainment events like film noir, French cinema and Oscar winning movies. This is one of the few theaters in town showcasing double features.
Harvard Museum of Natural History is one of the University's most visited museums. With exhibits of dinosaurs, meteorites, gemstones and hundreds of mammals from all over the world, in addition to the world famous collection of 3000 Blaschka Glass Flowers, you can see why the museum is so popular. The museum also has host fantastic temporary exhibits throughout the year. In the past the museum has hosted exhibits such as New England Forests and Language of Color. There's always something new to see. Check website for more.
Learn the history of the Boston Beer Company, brewer of Sam Adams beer, since its beginnings in 1984. If you have you ever wondered how the brewing and fermentation process works, you will get to learn a lot from the tours offered by the Samuel Adams Brewery. Understand how yeast, grain and malted barley turn into liquid cheer and view the giant machinery that does it all with a little help from the brew-masters. At the end of the guided tour, visitors get a taste of the famous Boston Lager and seasonal brews. People below 21 years of age can also participate in the tours. However, they won't be allowed to partake in the tasting sessions. There is also a gift shop on site.
Coolidge Corner Theatre is both sophisticated and eclectic at the same time. Erected as a church in 1906, and converted into a grand Art Deco movie house in 1934, this venue has two movie screens as well as a video screening room and exhibition space. Features include funky animation, quirky cult flicks, foreign and art movies, classics, and even first-run Hollywood hits. This theater also sponsors film and video festivals, performances and talks, and is also available for rental purposes.
With comfortable seating and stylish purple walls, Somerville Theater is an amazing place to catch the latest blockbusters to hit the big screen. Additionally, the Somerville Theater also hosts concerts and live music events featuring popular regional and international touring acts. A cafe and old-fashioned popcorn stand complete the nostalgic experience. It's no surprise that students and young professionals consider Davis Square such a hip locale.