Boston, known as the "Hub of the Universe," is the capital of Massachusetts and the largest city in New England. Incorporated as a town in 1630 and as a city in 1822, Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States and played a major role in the American Revolution. Today, Boston is home to some of the finest institutes of higher education and hospitals in the country. Boston also boasts numerous cultural and sporting opportunities.
Newbury Street in Boston's Back Bay is a posh area noted for its upscale stores, boutiques and fancy eateries located in renovated 19th century brownstones. Newbury Street extends eight blocks, running from the Boston Public Garden to Massachusetts Avenue. Establishments can be found at street and underground levels. With its plethora of high-end stores, Newbury Street is known as one of the most expensive streets in the world. But regardless of your finances, Newbury Street is an excellent place to people-watch and window-shop.
Fenway Park is home of the Boston Red Sox. The oldest stadium in the major leagues, Fenway opened in 1912 and is where such legends as Ted Williams and Babe Ruth played. Fenway is known for its quirky dimensions and the Green Monster, a 37-foot-high left field wall that houses a manually operated scoreboard. Tickets to Fenway have been sold out since 2003, so scoring tickets may be tough. However, tours are available daily. Tours include a behind-the-scenes look at Fenway Park.
Built in 1995, the New England Holocaust Museum is a tribute to the Jews who were executed in the Holocaust during World War II. The outdoor museum contains six glass towers that symbolize the chimneys of World War II concentration camps. Etched on the towers are six million numbers representing the six million lives that were lost during the Holocaust. The New England Holocaust Museum is found just off the Freedom Trail and near Faneuil Hall.
The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is devoted to the memory of the 35th president of the United States. The museum reveals Kennedy's life, leadership and legacy and shares his enthusiasm for politics and public service. The museum, located on 10 acres, also demonstrates the makeup of the office of president. The National Archives and Records Administration manages the museum.
Located on Atlantic Avenue, the New England Aquarium opened its doors in 1969 and attracts more than 1 million visitors annually. The aquarium houses 20,000 animals and 600 species. A 200,000-gallon tank replicates life in a Caribbean coral reef and includes sharks, turtles and smaller colorful fish that can be seen from more than 50 windows. The aquarium also holds a penguin exhibit.
