Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
One Singular Sensation
On a 1-day visit, consider concentrating on just one or two things you're most
excited about, plus a good meal or two. If what really gets you going is the
Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Science, Newbury Street's art galleries
and boutiques, or even a day trip (see chapter 11), you have a good excuse for
not doing more—and for a return trip to Boston!
Tips
7 The Waterfront
Now downtown Boston's small size pays
off: In almost any direction, the gorgeous
harbor is a short stroll from the North
End. As the day winds down, you can
take a sightseeing cruise (p. 176)
from Long Wharf or Rowes Wharf or just
a ferry ride from Long Wharf to
Charlestown and back. If cruises aren't for
you or are out of season, explore the New
England Aquarium (p. 147) or the
Children's Museum (p. 172). If
those don't appeal to you, head for the
nearby Seaport District (also known as
the South Boston Waterfront) and visit
the Institute of Contemporary Art
(p. 143). It's a 20- to 30-minute walk or
10-minute cab ride.
Or—it's not the Waterfront, but bear
with me—abandon the sightseeing after
the Paul Revere House and go shopping
in the Back Bay, starting with a stroll
along Newbury Street (see chapter 9).
Finally, head back to the hotel to wash
off the grime of the day, then pick some-
thing fun from the “Suggested Evening
Itineraries” box on p. 65.
5 The North End
The Freedom Trail continues here with
another famous Paul Revere hangout, the
fascinating Old North Church . But
there's more to this historic neighbor-
hood than just history. The city's “Little
Italy” (locals don't actually call it that) is a
great place for wandering around. See
p. 156.
6 HANOVER STREET
Coffee outlets throughout the city valiantly
attempt to serve good espresso and cap-
puccino; the shops here always succeed—
and if they don't, they don't stay in
business very long. Pair your caffeine with a
fresh-baked pastry, settle in at a bakery or
caffè, and take in the scene on the North
End's main drag. Top choices: T Mike's
Pastry, 300 Hanover St. ( & 617/742-
3050 ); U Caffè Vittoria, 296 Hanover
St. ( & 617/227-7606 ); and V Caffè
dello Sport, 308 Hanover St. ( & 617/523-
5063 ). See p. 107.
3 The Best of Boston in 2 Days
Now that you have a feel for the city, it's time to explore beyond downtown and inves-
tigate subjects other than history. The Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and other attractions con-
trast invitingly with the colonial extravaganza of the Freedom Trail. This itinerary may
require some flexibility, because you probably won't have much control over when your
Duck Tour starts. Aim for tickets on a tour that starts in the afternoon, when the scene
on the river is liveliest, with rowers chugging around and sailboats skimming past. If
your tour falls in the morning, the rest of this itinerary easily adjusts to accommodate it.
Start: Museum of Fine Arts (Green Line E to Museum or Orange Line to Ruggles).
 
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