Boston, the city that blends the charm of history with the buzz of innovation, is a fantastic destination for your summer getaway. Known for its vibrant culture, diverse food scene, and rich history, Boston offers a unique experience that caters to all tastes and interests.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or just someone looking for a memorable summer adventure, Boston has something for you. In this blog post, we will guide you through the top 5 landmarks that you should not miss when visiting Boston this summer 2024. Let’s explore!
Boston Common
Boston Common is a must-visit spot, especially for groups, due to its historical significance and its role as a gathering place for speeches and protests. Here’s why groups should visit it and some practical information about the park:
Why Should Groups Visit?
- Historical Significance: As the oldest city park in the United States, Boston Common offers a glimpse into Boston’s rich history It has been a central meeting place for the early settlers and has witnessed countless historic events, including public gatherings, protests, and even military drills during the American Revolution.
- Cultural Importance: Boston Common holds significant cultural importance. It serves as a symbol of civic pride and democratic values, as it has been a gathering place for political rallies, speeches, and celebrations for centuries.
- Recreational Activities: The park also plays a vital role in the city’s recreational and social life, offering a range of activities for locals and visitors alike.
Practical Information:
Entrance Fee: The Boston Common, along with the Public Garden and Commonwealth Avenue Mall, are free and open to visitors 365 days a year.
Parking: There is a spacious, state-of-the-art parking facility located beneath Boston Common, providing clean, well-lit parking for 1,350 vehicles. The parking rates vary depending on the time and duration of parking.
Getting There:
- By Car: Use the address of the Boston Common Visitor Information Center as a guide for GPS directions: 139 Tremont St., Boston, MA 02111. For directions to the Boston Common Garage (underneath Boston Common) use the number Zero Charles St., Boston, MA 02116.
- By Bus: There are several bus routes that pass near Boston Common. The specific route would depend on your starting location
- By Subway: The Boston Common is easily accessible by subway. The nearest subway station is Park Street Station, which is serviced by the Green Line and the Red Line. From the station, it’s just a short walk to the park.
The Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long path that passes by 16 locations significant to the history of the United States. Walking along the trail is like stepping back in time, and it’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Why Should Groups Visit?
Historical Significance: The Freedom Trail takes you through historic sites such as the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church, each telling a part of the story of the American Revolution.
Cultural Importance: The trail offers a unique way to experience the culture and history of Boston. It’s not just a walk, but a journey through the city’s past.
Practical Information:
Entrance Fee: Walking the Freedom Trail is free, but some sites along the trail may charge an entrance fee.
Getting There:
- By Car: Parking is available at various garages along the trail, such as the Government Center Garage.
- By Train: Take the Amtrak or commuter rail to North Station or South Station, then transfer to the subway.
- By Bus: Many MBTA bus routes serve stops along the Freedom Trail, including the 15, 39, and 57 buses.
- By Subway: The trail is accessible via multiple subway lines. Key stations include Park Street (Red/Green Lines), Government Center (Green/Blue Lines), and North Station (Orange/Green Lines).
- With DPV Transportation: For groups of all sizes, DPV Transportation charter buses offer an ideal way to travel between the sites on the Freedom Trail, ensuring a cohesive and educational experience.
Fenway Park
Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the country and a must-visit for sports fans.
Why Should Groups Visit?
Historical Significance: Fenway Park has been the home of the Red Sox since 1912, and visiting the park is like stepping back in time.
Cultural Importance: The park is a symbol of Boston’s love for baseball and has been the site of many memorable moments in sports history.
Practical Information:
Entrance Fee: Tours of Fenway Park are available, but prices vary depending on the type of tour and time of year.
Getting There:
- By Car: Limited parking is available around the stadium. It is advisable to use parking garages or lots in the surrounding area.
- By Train: Take the Amtrak or commuter rail to Back Bay Station, then transfer to the Green Line.
- By Bus: Several MBTA bus routes, including the 8, 19, 47, and CT2 buses, serve the Fenway area.
- By Subway: The park is accessible via the Green Line’s Kenmore Station. You can also use the Fenway Station on the D branch of the Green Line.
The Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is one of the largest museums in the United States, with a collection that encompasses nearly 500,000 works of art.
Why Should Groups Visit?
Cultural Importance: The museum offers a wide range of art, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
Practical Information:
Entrance Fee: Admission fees apply, but the museum offers discounts for students, seniors, and children.
Getting There:
- By Car: Parking is available at the museum’s parking garage, located off Museum Road. Visitors can use GPS to navigate to 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA.
- By Train: Take the Amtrak or commuter rail to Boston’s Back Bay Station, and then transfer to the Green Line E train to the Museum of Fine Arts Station.
- By Bus: The museum is served by several MBTA bus routes, including the 8, 19, 39, and 47 buses, which stop nearby.
- By Subway: The Museum of Fine Arts is accessible via the Green Line E train to the Museum of Fine Arts Station. Alternatively, you can take the Orange Line to Ruggles Station and walk a short distance to the museum.
The New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is a global leader in ocean exploration and marine conservation and a must-visit for families and marine life enthusiasts.
Why Should Groups Visit?
Educational Value: The aquarium offers a chance to learn about marine life from around the world, with exhibits featuring everything from penguins to sharks.
Practical Information:
Entrance Fee: Admission fees apply, but the aquarium offers discounts for students, seniors, and children.
Getting There:
- By Car: Parking is available at the Harbor Garage, located next to the aquarium. Use GPS to navigate to 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA.
- By Train: Take the Amtrak or commuter rail to Boston’s North Station, and then transfer to the Orange Line to State Street Station, followed by a short walk to the aquarium.
- By Bus: The aquarium is served by several MBTA bus routes, including the 4, 92, and 93 buses, which stop nearby.
- By Subway: The New England Aquarium is accessible via the Blue Line’s Aquarium Station. You can also reach it by taking the Orange Line or Green Line to Haymarket Station, followed by a short walk to the aquarium.
- With DPV Transportation: For groups, renting a bus from DPV Transportation ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip to Boston. Our buses provide ample space and comfort for your group’s visit
These are just a few of the many landmarks that make Boston a great city to visit. Whether you’re interested in history, sports, art, or marine life, Boston has something to offer everyone. Enjoy your visit to Boston this summer 2024!
