Planning your visit to Revere, Massachusetts ahead of time can ensure that you include all the attractions that make this city unforgettable. Whether you're a history buff or an outdoorsy type who's not afraid to try your luck, this city, which is only a five-minute drive from downtown Boston and Logan International Airport, won't disappoint. It even provides an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get to lots of attractions.
Revere Beach, located 5 miles north of Boston, is a national historic landmark and America's first public beach. A visit to this 2.5-mile, crescent-shaped beach makes for the perfect photo op. In addition to standard beach activities, such as sunbathing and swimming, there's an annual sand-sculpting contest that takes place in the summer, and events like movies and concerts on the beach also occur on occasion. Additionally, there are many upscale and casual restaurants along the beach that can satisfy your hunger.
Win or lose, trying your luck at Suffolk Downs won't disappoint, because the entire family can enjoy the excitement of the horse races. Located less than 2 miles east of the center of Revere, this racetrack offers free, first-come, first-served seating and box seats that you can reserve for a fee. You can watch the races on the track or follow them on the monitors throughout the building. Stadium-style concession stands and fine-dining and casual restaurants are on-site when hunger strikes, and if you prefer to pack a lunch, there is a picnic area that you can use while watching the kids enjoy the nearby playground.
About a five-minute drive east from Revere's center, you'll find Belle Isle Marsh Reservation, which is Boston's last salt marsh. This 152-acre reservation is open year-round, and home to rare salt marsh plants, wildlife, fish and shellfish. The Department of Conservation and Recreation has installed an observation tower and provided paths and benches on 28 acres of the reservation for visitors to enjoy. You can go on a hike on your own or take a guided tour of the area that provides information about the history of the marsh.
A visit to Revere is not complete without a tour of the house of the man after whom the city was named. Paul Revere's house, which is the oldest house in downtown Boston and part of the Freedom Trail, is located on 19 North Square, about 5 miles south of Revere. The house was built in 1680 and owned by Revere from 1770 through 1800. After paying a small admission price, you can take a self-guided tour of the house, during which you can view illustrated text panels and learn about the life of the silversmith-turned-war-patriot.
