Activities in Greater Boston

If you are in Boston, you will see Duck Tour vehicles everywhere. They are open boat-cars that pepper the city streets and have the passengers "quack" for fun once in a while. The tour entails an hour-plus adventure on the vehicle that is capable of being a boat --- leading you into the Charles River--- and a car --- driving around historic neighborhoods once out of the water. The fun of the experience is seeing the panorama of the city --- Back Bay on the east, Cambridge on the west --- from the inside looking out. It's guaranteed to provide the most picturesque skyline views from the ground.



Boston Duck Tours

Prudential Center and Museum of Science

Boston, MA 02116

800-226-7442 or 617-267-DUCK

bostonducktours.com

For a complete 360-degree, bird's-eye view of Boston, head up to the Prudential Tower Skywalk. Located on the 50th floor, the observatory offers an opportunity to see the city from 700 feet above the ground, and whether you choose daytime or evening, it's a once-in-a-lifetime peek at essentially the map of Boston as if written on the palm of your hand.



Skywalk Observatory

Prudential Tower

800 Boylston St., 50th floor

Boston, MA 02199

topofthehub.net

Located on the waterfront and part of the historic Freedom Trail, this is Boston's version of Little Italy. Despite the narrow streets and impossible parking situation, it's on VIP status with locals mostly for the food. Affordable authentic cuisine, to-die-for pastries for which both locals and tourists line up for in droves and the atmosphere of a little European corner transcend an experience unmatched in other tourist destinations.



North End Boston

northendboston.com

Harvard University is a destination in itself, but there's much more around it worth seeing to feel the rhythm of the neighborhood. Hop on the red line T to get to Harvard Square from downtown in less than 15 minutes, and you'll be overwhelmed by the activity in this booming Cambridge neighborhood. Serving as the main hub and center of Harvard, the square offers plenty of sightseeing and shopping opportunities, including a movie theater, a plethora of restaurants, a comprehensive bookstore and street performer activity.



Harvard Square

harvardsquare.com

Boston is an outdoorsy, walking city. Along the Charles River, which divides the city, there is a paved walkway suitable for bikers, runners, walkers and rollerbladers. It's home to many a breathtaking sunset. Walking costs nothing, and since the city provided the infrastructure, it may be sensible to enjoy the views and photo opportunities while taking in the scenery without having to sign up for any special tours. There's readily available public transportation close by to take you around from whichever point you stop at.



Charles River Esplanande

esplanadeassociation.org

Boston is a foodie city, a seafood city and a magnet for talented chefs. Yet if asked about a simple culinary experience, most would answer it's clam chowder. In a variety of reputable seafood restaurants, including probably the best-known Legal Seafoods, Boston's clam chowder is righteously famous. The city understands its commitment to making the best. Your palate will have to judge the best among equals.