Waterfront, Boston

The New England Aquarium features more than 20,000 fish and aquatic animals representing over 550 species within 70+ exhibits. A man-made Caribbean coral reef houses a large variety of tropical fish and underwater life including sharks, turtles and moray eels. The "Edge of the Sea" touch tank allows visitors to handle small invertebrates like crabs, sea stars and urchins. Outside the aquarium, visitors can watch Harbor seals play, perform and live in their enclosed habitat. The New England Aquarium also hosts temporary exhibits, educational programs and whale-watching tours outside of Boston Harbor.

Since its original construction in 1710, this wharf has been scaled back considerably. It was built to service ships that couldn't get closer to shore but today exists more as a reminder of bygone days. Restaurants and shops have replaced most of the former warehouses and industrial locations on the wharf. The 1837 Customs House still occupies the wharf's edge. A number of companies that offer boat cruises of the harbor have their headquarters here. There's also a shuttle-boat to the Charlestown Navy Yard.

This attraction gives visitors the chance to relive the Boston Tea Party, one of the most important events leading up to the American Revolution. There are multi-media displays and historical artifacts on board the Brig Beaver II, a full size working replica of one of the original Tea Party ships. Live re-enactments take place every half hour.

The Boston Children's Museum contains exhibits designed for children from infancy to 10. It operates under the philosophy that kids learn through "real objects, direct experiences and enjoyment." The three floors of exhibits and activities offer something for every child, from the aspiring artists and actors to the budding engineers and scientists. Some of the museum's highlights include:"Boats Afloat" where kids can play with a variety of boats and watercraft in a 28-foot long, 800-gallon water tank."Arthur's World" featuring characters from the popular children's book series."Supermercado" where kids can learn about Latin America and shopping at the same time.

Head for the Seaport District and step aboard the Spirit of Boston for an afternoon or evening of cruising on historic Boston Harbor. Cruises provide entertainment and offer breathtaking skyline views. The Spirit of Boston cruises year round with seasonal special features.During the summer months one option is the Lobster Clambake Buffet Lunch cruises and Friday and Saturdays.Special cruises are also available during the Christmas holiday season.Cruises operate year-round, rain or shine and can accommodate anywhere from two to 600 guests.