The real question is Why Not?

Boston is the epitome  (perfect blend/ combo/merger/mix/fusion) of the historical and the contemporary. Personal preferences for entertainment and interests are virtually endless – from historical trails and artifacts to fringe theatre, from inspirational architecture to dining on local fare, from the old masters to the new brew masters. Each season brings its own specialties and favorites enjoyed by locals and visiting families, LGBT travelers and everyone else. 

Popular annual events and festivals include First Night First Day, the Boston Marathon, Boston Calling, Pride Week, Outside the Box, Harborfest, the biannual Dine Out Boston, Head of the Charles and many holiday events from tree lightings and caroling to The Nutcracker and Black Nativity performances. Throughout spring, summer and fall a variety of ethnic festivals take place – no passport required!

Annual Events

Theatre marquees are lit year round and Boston’s music scene hits all the right notes from classic to rock and every genre in between. The renowned Boston Symphony and the Pops and guests artists at the House of Blues and TD Garden perform for your enjoyment. Our comedy clubs will make you laugh again and again while our dance clubs and lounges will have you on your feet ‘til they hurt!

Whether you’re a bona-fide fashionista or a whimsical window shopper, Boston’s independent boutiques, galleries, department stores and brand name outlets are certain to suit your needs.

From spring through fall, local farmer and artisan markets beckon from city parks and squares.

Boston Common and the Public Garden are inspiring whether in full bloom, a riot of color or during a gentle snowfall.  Tours and trails can be enjoyed by foot, bikes, boats, trolleys, segways or “ducks” almost year long.  Permanent treasures, hands-on exhibits and ever-changing temporary exhibitions can be found at the city’s famed museums: the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Science, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Children’s Museum, the Institute of Contemporary Art, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum, the Museum of African American History Museum, the Harvard Art Museums and the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum to name but a few.

Things to Do

Don’t limit your Boston experience to the main attractions and Boston proper. Meander into the neighborhoods – each unique with a personality all to itself. Stroll through Roxbury where abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison lived and where Billie Holiday sang the blues. Pass under Chinatown’s ceremonial gate and explore the culinary and cultural traditions of this diverse Asian community, the third largest in the country. Browse gift and curio shops, bakeries and markets selling live poultry, fish, vegetables and spices.  A tip for night owls, many of the restaurants remain open until 3am.  The nation’s largest intact Victorian row houses reside in the South End. Visitors will also find an array of restaurants, cafes, stylish shops, art galleries and lovely pocket parks sprinkled throughout the neighborhood. Landmarks include the Boston Ballet Center, Boston Center for the Arts and Wally’s Café showcasing some of the best jazz and break-out jams since 1945.

Neighborhoods of Boston and Beyond

Recreational activities range from spectator sports (think Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins & Celtics) sailing and kayaking the Charles River, cutting figure eights on Frog Pond, jogging along the Esplanade or posing downward dog on the Greenway. Harborwalk along the city’s waterfront is filled with pocket parks, public art, cafes and dramatic vistas. Boston’s newest gem, the Rose Kennedy Greenway is inviting any time of year.

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Kick back, relax and enjoy musical performances, art installations, outdoor markets and movies, a spin on the carousel and Rings Fountain with its unpredictable water patterns that jet into the air. The Greenway’s Winter Lights brings warmth throughout the season and you just might be able to snowshoe or cross country ski some winters.

Sports!

Boston’s dining options are dynamic and delicious.  No longer the home of “the bean and the cod”- area chefs present signature specialties made from the freshest local ingredients. New restaurants and old favorites cater to every palate and every pocketbook. Contemporary cuisine, traditional New England fare with a few twists and an eclectic mix of international and ethnic dishes make for exceptional dining.

Dining in Boston

A quick heads up- Boston is truly a walking city- absolutely no need for a car. Public transportation is accessible and convenient. Pedicabs, taxis and bike rentals are also readily available. The best way to enjoy this compact, friendly and delightful city is to take to the streets – walk, explore, peruse and then relax with a cool beverage, cup of coffee or you got it – ice cream – no matter what time of year!

Courtesy of: bostonusa.com