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".
One of the most well-known incidents of the American Revolution was the Boston Tea party where shiploads of tea were thrown into the sea to protest against the British taxes. The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum allows guests to relive this incident with costumed tour guides telling the story of the war with paintings and historic artifacts and even reenactments. Visitors can board the ships and dump tea crates into the sea. Each aspect of the historical event, as well as the aftermath, is covered in this museum, making it a must stop for keen guests.
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!
Still an active Episcopalian church, Old North Church is possibly the oldest religious structure in Boston, dating back to 1723. It occupies a special place in American history. On a fateful night in 1775, Paul Revere watched for the signal, “one if by land and two if by sea.” After the church sexton hung two lanterns from the steeple, he began his famous midnight ride to wake and warn the countryside of the British troops' arrival. Every April, members of the colonial militia begin a lantern service commemorating this historic event.
Serving the community since 1936, ICA (Institute of Contemporary Art) has been among the first in the city to debut works by impressive artists from Picasso to Warhol. Since its 2006 move to the architecturally stunning new harbor front site, the museum has continued its impressive exhibits of cutting edge of contemporary art in Boston. The facility now houses an amazing permanent collection rife with paintings and video installations, as well as traveling exhibitions showcasing the hottest talents from around the world. ICA is also home to a year-round program of dance, theater and film, and it also sponsors educational programs and off-site art installations and events throughout the community.
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 over 500 lilac bushes.
With antique brick facade set among downtown skyscrapers, any passerby can pick this building out as a relic from an earlier time. Now a museum run by The Bostonian Society, the site has a long and distinguished history. The Boston Massacre, one of the catalysts for the American Revolution, took place just outside. The Declaration of Independence was first read to Boston here on July 18, 1776. The structure served as the new state's capital until 1797. Exhibits at the museum take visitors through the stories of the revolution and the people involved in them.
Dorchester Heights is located in South Boston. It is remembered in American history for the Fortification of Dorchester Heights in the American Revolutionary. The Dorchester Heights Monument was completed in 1902, and built in Georgia white marble. It towers over at 115 feet (35 meters) and is topped with a striking cupola and weather vane. This site was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966.
Said to be one of the first buildings in the French Second Empire architectural styles, Boston's Old Hall was used as a city council for several years in the 1800s. The hall was built in 1862 and is featured on the National Register of Historic Places. It is now home to several business organizations and commercial spaces.
The Old Corner Bookstore is a historic landmark in Boston. Located along the Freedom Trail, this building was built in 1712. This structure has been occupied by several commercial tenants over the years since its first use as a bookstore. It features on the National Register of Historic Places.
Stroll through the fourth floor of Faneuil Hall to find this hidden piece of history. Founded in the 1800s, this museum-cum-library-cum-armory has military memorabilia and some of the oldest military artifacts in America. On the walls and enclosed in glass cases are antique weapons and faded uniforms. Also on display here are flags, military books and a wealth of paintings. This is an interesting place to stop and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Admission is free.