This Historic US City Is Full Of Renowned Colleges, Culture, And Unique Sights

When the topic of the most historic cities in the United States comes up, you can bet that Boston, Massachusetts, will be near the top of the list. Often referred to as the birthplace of the American Revolution, it's impossible to learn about U.S. history without covering events like the Boston Tea Party and the Boston Massacre. Today the city is thriving with culture of all kinds, priding itself on being a melting pot of different people, places, and activities for travelers from all over the world.

One unique thing about Boston is that it holds nearly two dozen recognized neighborhoods, so it can be difficult to know where to begin when planning your trip to Beantown. A good place to start would be flying into Boston's Logan International Airport, which serves many airlines and routes from all over the world as New England's largest travel hub. Logan is located just 5 miles from downtown and is accessible by Boston's large public transit system. If you're looking to get into the city quickly and cheaply, you won't beat the free option of taking the Silver Bus Line straight from airport arrivals to Boston's South Station. 

Once you reach the city, the options for seeing unique sights are endless. From the country's oldest public park and botanical garden, to historical sites you've read about in history books, to some of the most beautiful college campuses in New England, your itinerary is sure to be packed full of things to do. Your travels may also take you to Boston's surrounding suburbs like Melrose, where you'll find a quaint Victorian downtown, cozy cafes, and scenic parks. It would be impossible to see everything in one trip, so read on to learn about the best things to do in Boston proper and beyond.

Boston is home to some of the most prestigious and well-known colleges in the country, if not the world. While the city of Cambridge isn't technically part of Boston, Harvard University is probably one of the first educational institutions that comes to mind when Boston is mentioned. Located across the Charles River, Harvard and the renowned area of Harvard Square boast an ivy-clad campus and a wonderland of festivals and markets (especially in the fall). You can always opt to officially tour the campus, but if not, some things you shouldn't miss include Harvard Yard, University Hall, and Widener Library. Don't forget to snap a photo by the iconic Harvard Gates!

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is another destination campus in Cambridge, located in Kendall Square. Visit the MIT Welcome Center to pick up a campus map before getting started, and get more details about campus tours and informational sessions. For key spots to check out on campus, begin with the outdoor Killian Court, featuring a Great Dome larger than the one at the U.S. Capitol Building. For those interested in art, the List Visual Arts Center houses contemporary pieces, the MIT Museum features galleries and exhibits that mix both art and technology, and pieces by iconic artists like Calder and Picasso are among those found on campus for public viewing.

There are plenty more campuses worth a visit if you're so inclined. Boston University with its Charles River views and ample outdoor greenery, Emerson College with its beautiful urban architecture, and the South End's picturesque Boston College have all been mentioned alongside Harvard University as some of the most beautiful college campuses in New England.

Paul Revere and his legendary ride is sure to come up during your time in Boston, and the Freedom Trail through downtown Boston's neighborhoods, churches, and landmarks is one of America's most historic. It takes only 2.5 miles to link 16 historic sites together, making this activity both educational and walkable. Well-loved stops along the way include places like Boston Common; the Old South Meeting House, largely considered to be the birthplace of the Boston Tea Party; and Faneuil Hall, "the home of free speech" which held America's first town meeting, and now serves as a shopping and dining market that's popular with tourists.

Other attractions include the Massachusetts State House; Park Street Church; and Granary Burying Ground, a historic cemetery established in 1660 with approximately 2,300 markers, including the resting place of Benjamin Franklin's parents, John Hancock, and Paul Revere. King's Chapel and King's Chapel Burying Ground, Boston's oldest English burying ground, is also a notable site, along with the Boston Latin School Site and Benjamin Franklin Statue. The Old Corner Bookstore, which dates back to 1718 and stands as downtown Boston's oldest commercial building, once housed Ticknor and Fields, the publishing house responsible for producing famous texts like Nathanial Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter" and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Midnight Ride of Paul Revere."

Speaking of Revere, don't miss the Paul Revere House, the only Freedom Trail site that served as a home (and was owned by Paul Revere himself from 1770 to 1800). The Bunker Hill Monument, the Old North Church (famed for the midnight ride of Paul Revere), the USS Constitution, and Copp's Hill Burying Ground, along with a few additional sites, round out the list.

Did you know that Boston happens to be home to the country's oldest public park? That's right — that title belongs to Boston Common, a sprawling 44-acre piece of land located in the heart of the city and surrounded by well-known Boston streets including Tremont, Park, Beacon, Charles, and Boylston. It was founded in 1634 and boasts a varied history including public gatherings, military training, and even executions. A popular place for rallies, this site has long supported the efforts of free speech, from anti-Vietnam War rallies to civil rights protests, including one led by Martin Luther King Jr. Boston Common has lots to see, from monuments like the Boston Massacre Memorial monument to the Boston Common Frog Pond (a free, kid-friendly splash park). The iconic Boston Common Carousel, built in 1947, is a favorite among children from spring through fall, and the Parkman Bandstand hosts rallies, speeches, concerts, and even Shakespeare on the Common performances in the summer.

Not only does Boston have the country's oldest public park, it also serves as home to the country's first public botanical garden, the Boston Public Garden. With over 600 varieties of trees and a selection of flowers that is routinely changed, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, this park is a must-see. Established in 1837, the gardens were designed with the Victorian era in mind, and while Boston Common was founded on functionality, the gardens were designed to be aesthetically enjoyed. Explore winding paths and a large lagoon, and don't miss the "Make Way For Ducklings" bronze statues; the famous swan boats; and the George Washington Statue, one of the largest bronze statues in all of Boston.

When it comes to Boston, tree-lined streets with ivy-covered brick, iron gates, and cobbled walkways are the picturesque images you'll find in magazines, but seeing these sights in person is a completely different experience. Perhaps the most iconic neighborhood is Beacon Hill, a fall and holiday favorite due to the beautiful decorations on the classic stoops you'll find around every corner. The primarily Federal and Greek Revival houses are extra special during the fourth quarter of the year, first decked out with pumpkins and fall decor amid a backdrop of colorful foliage, and, finally, adorned with red-ribboned wreaths and holiday lights. Beacon Hill is also the perfect place to explore quaint independent bookshops, as its rich literary history is linked to famous authors like Sylvia Plath, Louisa May Alcott, and Robert Frost — we like Beacon Hill Books & Cafe.

One of Boston's best neighborhoods, Charlestown, also happens to be its oldest, where you'll find waterfront views and storybook streets. While mostly residential now, Charlestown once served as the site for one of the most well-known battles of the Revolutionary War — the Battle of Bunker Hill — making the Bunker Hill Monument a must-see for visitors. If you want to experience another piece of history in the form of dining, you're in luck because Boston is home to some of the oldest continuously operating taverns in the country, and The Warren Tavern in Charlestown (which dates back to 1780) counts itself among those ranks, having served the likes of both George Washington and Paul Revere.

Other neighborhoods and attractions worth a visit include the North End for amazing Italian dining and the downtown historic sites, and animal lovers won't want to miss the Franklin Park Zoo in Dorchester.