Top Rated Attracties in Cambridge

This century-old Italianate structure of bronze doors and grand marble staircases, Boston Public Library was the first free municipal library in the nation. The library's first building on Mason Street was a former schoolhouse, which opened in 1854. Having received an authorized decision, the library's then commissioners located a new building for the library on Boylston Street. Thus, the Copley Square location became home to the library in 1895. Expanding the Copley Square location in 1972, the Johnson building was constructed adjoining the McKim building. In this National Historic Landmark, you can find collections of maps and prints, rare books and manuscripts, and fine mural series. The Boston Public Library offers daily tours highlighting famed central library buildings and art works by some prolific artists from the bygone era.

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. For a blessed time, visit with your family and friends.

Steeped in history, this is one of Boston's most beautiful neighborhoods. Home to statesmen, artists and intellectuals, "The Hill" is also the site of the State House, which is the beginning of the Freedom Trail. Lovely cafes and majestic brownstone buildings line the narrow, cobblestoned streets next to the Boston Common, America's oldest urban park. At the bottom of the hill, along Charles Street, are several antique shops and boutiques to pick up unique souvenirs. This charming neighborhood has managed to preserve its history without becoming artificially quaint. Another important and most visited feature of Boston is Acorn Street. This street is surrounded by beautiful colonial-style houses, giving it an earthy feel, which will transport you to the era gone by.

One of the most famous Ivy League Universities in the world, Harvard is every aspiring academic's dream destination. Established in the year 1636, Harvard is the oldest college in the United States by a country mile. Its collegiate school, initially known as 'New College', primarily served to instruct clergy members, and continued in this vein until the early periods of the 18th Century. Throughout the 1700s, 1800s, and 1900s, Harvard's reputation has only grown, as did its offerings and concentrations. Harvard broke with tradition in 1977 when it merged with Radcliffe College, essentially making it coeducational. Today, Harvard remains one of the most prestigious learning institutions in the world, and the red bricks of Harvard Yard are a Boston landmark. Its campus covers nearly 210 acres (85 hectares) and is home to numerous heritage sights such as the John Harvard Statue, Massachusetts Hall, Widener Library and Harvard Yard.

Bunker Hill Monument commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill, where the famous command "Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes" was issued. Local lore makes much of the battle misnomer; the battle actually took place on Breed's Hill. Many tourists end their Freedom Trail tour here. Some ambitious visitors undertake the upward climb of 294 steps to the top of the monument, as the view from the top is breathtaking, and one can take in panoramic sights of Boston’s skyline.

Paul Revere was a Boston native and local silversmith renowned for his role in the American Revolution. On a night back in 1775, he left home to warn fellow rebels Sam Adams and John Hancock that British troops were headed to Lexington to arrest them. That night was immortalized by Longfellow's poem, "Paul Revere's Ride." The house was built in 1680 and bought by Revere in 1770. It just escaped the wrecking ball when Revere's descendants recovered the property in 1902. Now a national historic landmark, the building is one of the oldest in downtown Boston and reminiscent of colonial America. It opened its doors to public viewing and displays a unique assortment of personal belongings and memorabilia.