Grab a spot close to the Charles River for the fireworks display to celebrate the Fourth of July. This means that you have to get to the Esplanade (as the public park along the river is called) by midafternoon on the holiday, but be prepared to wait because the display doesn't start until about 10 pm. The venue opens as early as 9 a.m. You may want to go with a large group of family or friends who can save your spot in case you decide to step away to the restroom or to buy food at one of the numerous stalls set up around the area. The Boston Pops entertain the crowd all day with upbeat numbers at the Hatchshell, the outdoor concert area by the river, playing the popular "1812 Overture" about 9:30 p.m. Bring a blanket or warm wear, because the evening gets chilly.
Take a walk back in time along the famous Freedom Trail, with costumed tour guides leading the way. Spend Memorial Day, Patriot's Day or even the Fourth of July learning more about the nation's history although tours that operate through the year. Check the website (See References) for more details. Dressed in traditional old England attire, the guides explain the significance of some of the 16 historic sites, located along a 2.5-mile walk in downtown Boston, connected by a symbolic single broad strip of red paint or brick. Most sites are free to access if you haven't signed up for the guided tours. Locations include Paul Revere's grave site, the Bunker Hill Monument and Faneuil Hall. Some tours start in the city center at Boston Common, the city park.
Eat at the extensive multi-cuisine food court, window-shop or be entertained by street performers at this historic city attraction. The area is especially busy during major holidays, but the number of visitors swell during most weekends as well. There are 17 restaurants and pubs to choose from, including the famous Cheers pub, associated with the famous 1980s comedy television series by the same name. Jugglers, musicians, clowns, mimes and magicians take center stage as they enthrall crowds. Walk across the street to the wharf to enjoy the breeze or treat yourself to a seafood lunch at one of the chic cafes close by.
The Skywalk Observatory is the only place in the city that provides a sweeping 360-degree view of Boston. Choose a clear day to visit, particularly in the summer, for best results. Located in the Prudential Center, the observatory is open seven days a week, but hours differ according to the time of year. Check the website (see Resources) for rates and other information. Call 617-859-0648 on the day that you plan to visit to make sure that the area isn't closed for a private function.
Visit local museums and malls for some Christmastime entertainment. During winter, the temperature dips considerably. This makes being indoors an appealing option. The life of Massachusetts native John F. Kennedy is meticulously documented at the local museum that bears his name. The former president's childhood home in nearby Brookline is also open to the public. Boston's Museum of Fine Arts houses artifacts from around the world. Children will enjoy a day at the Science Museum. For all museums, check their websites for special seasonal displays. The Prudential Center has a host of shops under one roof. And don't miss the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, the oldest municipal library in the United States.
