Located near Logan International Airport in East Boston, Belle Isle Marsh Reservation is the only remaining salt marsh in the city. Many species of fish and shellfish call this wetland home. Several species of birds also reside here, from shorebirds to snowy owls. Its picturesque landscapes include walking trails and an observation tower. The spectacular view allows you to watch the nearby plane traffic as well as Boston Harbor and the downtown skyline. Guided walks on salt marsh ecology and cultural history are also available.
This large pond was carved out by glaciers during the last Ice Age. Unusually deep and cold, Jamaica Pond is linked via underground channels to other bodies of water along the Jamaicaway. The park features one path for walkers and runners and another path for cyclists. During the summer months, you can rent a rowboat or sailboat, or you can fish for trout, bass, salmon and perch. Besides these activities, city folks also flock to Jamaican Pond for theater performances, concerts and children programs.
Dating back to 1903, Jordan Hall is a National Historic Landmark that is highly regarded in the city. Warm, intimate and equipped with amazing acoustics, Jordan Hall stages free concerts annually, including performances by conservatory students, faculty members and ensembles. Guest artists have included the likes of Nancy Argenta, soprano; Finnur Bjarnason, tenor; and Christine Brandes, soprano.
Commonwealth Museum exhibits some interesting documents and legal records belonging to the State. The museum's education department offers lectures encouraging the use of material from the archives. A special exhibit entitled 'Highway to the Past' is dedicated to the archeology of the Big Dig. Many of the artifacts uncovered during the digging are also on display.
With a planetarium, an IMAX movie theater, and a two-story Van de Graaf generator capable of producing 2.5 million volts of electricity, the Museum of Science is truly impressive. Children love the interactive discovery center, live animal exhibit 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.
Beyond the borders of the Back Bay is a friendly neighborhood that features exciting, trendy shops, theaters and restaurants on tree-lined streets of brownstone buildings. Culinary explorers will enjoy eating along popular Tremont Street, and even the tiniest streets of the South End district are full of cafes and bars. The Aquitaine French Bistro serves French cuisine in elegant surroundings. Head to the Delux Cafe & Lounge for a great atmosphere, lots of locals, and hearty hamburgers and pizza. The forever trendy Club Cafe has a hopping after-work crowd and fun theme nights.