Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Consisting of Quincy Market (pictured), the North Market, the South Market and its namesake Faneuil Hall, this historic center of commerce is one of the most popular destinations in the city. Enjoy shopping, dining and a multitude of street performers, who roam the cobblestoned pedestrian walkways and plazas surrouding the area. 
617-523-1300
faneuilhallmarketplace.com

Boston Common
America’s first public park was originally grazing land. Now it serves a variety of recreational purposes, with a wading pool/skating rink, playground and ball field. Historic monuments include Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ tribute to the all-black Massachusetts 54th Regiment that fought in the Civil War. 

Between Beacon, Tremont, Charles, Boylston and Park streets

State House
The father of American architecture, Charles Bulfinch, designed the legislative heart of Massachusetts, which was completed in 1798. The signature gold dome—originally wood and then copper—was added in 1874. Free tours highlighting the building’s history, architecture and governmental function are available. 

24 Beacon St., 617-727-3676, 
sec.state.ma.us/trs

Old North Church
Celebrated as the signal tower that sparked colonists to action at the outset of the American Revolution, this Episcopal church (also known as Christ Church) dates back to 1723. The famed Paul Revere statue is just steps from its doors.

193 Salem St., 617-523-4848, oldnorth.org

Swan Boats
Robert Paget floated his first Swan Boats on the Public Garden Lagoon in 1877, and although the fleet has grown, the tradition has remained in the Paget family ever since. A peaceful glide across the tranquil waters is only a few dollars and fun for the whole family. 

Boston Public Garden, 617-522-1966, swanboats.com

Newbury Street
Boston’s version of Rodeo Drive boasts such high-end retailers as Chanel, Brooks Brothers and 
Waterford, as well as hip restaurants, cafes and the best people-watching in the city. 
Back Bay between Boylston Street and Commonwealth Avenue, newburystreetleague.org

Acorn Street
Perhaps the most photographed street in the country, Acorn Street evokes old-time Boston like no other locale. With picturesque brick townhouses and a cobblestoned surface, this narrow lane exudes history. 

Beacon Hill between West Cedar and Willow streets 

Fenway Park
The oldest Major League ballpark and home to the Red Sox, Fenway Park has become a landmark that transcends baseball. Tickets for the Olde Towne Team are hard to come by, but tours of the venerable stadium are available. 

4 Yawkey Way, 617-226-6666, redsox.com

Boston Pops 
Created in 1885 as a lighter, summer alternative to its parent organization the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Pops has gone on to worldwide renown. This year, conductor Keith Lockhart (pictured) celebrates his 20th year behind the baton when the season debuts on May 6.

Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., 617-266-2378, bso.org

Boston Public Library
Founded in 1848, the Boston Public Library is this country’s oldest municipal library. The grand central library in Copley Square was completed in 1895 and expanded in 1972. It houses not only the circulating collection, but also rotating exhibits, grand murals, a cafe and a beautiful courtyard with fountain.

700 Boylston St., 617-536-5400, bpl.org