Boston Common, and its
neighbor, the Public Garden, is an oasis from hectic city life.
Steps away from Downtown Crossing and Park Street station, it is
the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a quick nap under a
shady tree, or just some serious people-watching.
You can pick up free
brochures, papers and maps at the Boston Common Information
Center, (146 Tremont Street, at the Common) run by the Greater
Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau. (617-536-4100)
The famous Freedom Trail
begins here. It is about a 3-mile walk along a painted or brick
path that takes you into some of Boston’s most historical
sites. The stops along the Freedom Trail include the Granary
Burying Grounds, where Paul Revere and Mother Goose are laid to
rest. You can also visit the Old South Church, the planning
arena for the Boston Tea Party, or Old City Hall, as well as the
site of the beginning of the Boston Massacre. The Freedom Trail
winds you into King’s Chapel and Park Street Church, as well
as sites in Charlestown and the North End.
Stroll around the grounds
of the common and you’ll hear the screams of delighted
children on the playground swings. In the summertime they’ll
use the fountains or Frog Pond to cool from the hot August sun,
and in the winter, Frog Pond turns into an ice rink where you
might see a businessman on his lunch break gliding with spirited
children and young couples in love.
Just across the way is the
Public Garden, one of the most bucolic areas of the city.
Whether you visit in the flush of spring among blooming flowers,
or meander through the crisp leaves of autumn, the Public Garden
is serenity in the city.
Take a deep breath under
one of the lazy weeping willow trees surrounding the pond, and
gaze at the myriad of flowers and trees. The Public Garden also
has one of the smallest footbridges in the country.
The Public Garden is home
to the famous Swan Boats. For some Bostonians, spring doesn’t
begin until the swans are released in the lagoon. Bring your
children or your niece and nephew onto the pedal-powered swan
boats and flow gently around the pond. On your way out, be sure
to pose by the statue inspired by the children’s tale, Make
Way for Ducklings.
Just outside of the Public
Garden is the bar inspired by the hit television show
"Cheers", the Bull & Finch Pub (84 Beacon Street,
617-227-9605) You wouldn’t be a tourist if you didn’t at
least peak in. Go ahead; grab yourself a beer, just like Norm.
BOSTON
COMMON
ATTRACTIONS
