Four buildings — Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market — constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall, built in 1742.
Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act by proclaiming, “no taxation without representation”.
From those historic days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants. Yes, it's a bit of a tourist trap, but also a great pit stop to get your fill of lobster rolls and clam chowder.
The start/finish point of the trail is the gorgeous Boston Common — originally a cow paddock in the mid-1600s. It was also the site of Puritan punishments like whipping, and even hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, also known as the War of Independence, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies.
A short walk from here brings you to Beacon Hill, one of Boston's most picturesque, and posh, neighbourhoods. It's an Insta-hit, with quaint, cobblestone alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses with bay windows and displays of flower-filled window boxes. Louisburg Square and Acorn Street are the crowd favourites, while a stroll down Charles Street leads you to a sweep of restaurants, shops and bars.
If you're a fan of the TV show “Cheers”, make tracks for Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the programme. Originally the Bull and Finch Bar, the building's exterior is instantly recognisable, while the bar itself has embraced the whole Cheers theme, catering to the show's global devotees. Cheers!
Home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park has been the site of home runs, stolen bases and grounders for 110 years. I loved the ballpark's original architecture, the 11m-tall Green Monster wall, and the venue's distinctive paint job, officially known as Fenway Green.
Further around the waterfront is the Charlestown Navy Yard. Don't miss the chance to board the USS Constitution. This vessel is the world's oldest commissioned warship still operational today. Fondly nicknamed Old Ironsides, she is helmed by United States Navy sailors, who also serve as the ship's guides. She still sails once a year on Independence Day, to retain her naval rating.
You'll definitely want to take to the water on a Boston Harbour cruise, where I gleaned many remarkable insights about Boston's makeup and sense of place. The cruise departs from Long Wharf, where the British arrived and departed from, after founding the city in 1630.
Experiences like the harbour cruise and visiting New England Aquarium are best purchased with a Boston CityPASS, a bumper budget-saving pass that encompasses a range of Boston's best paid attractions, with steeply discounted admission prices, via CityPASS. Buy a CityPASS and you've got the keys to the city. Spend less and experience more with one simple, convenient purchase. www.citypass.com
Boston harbour's 18m archway, dressed with a huge American flag, heralds quite the welcome to Boston Harbor Hotel. Perfectly sited on the harbourfront, with a maritime theme, this property and its convivial staff deliver a memorable stay.
The capitalises on its vantage point on historic Rowes Wharf, with sweeping views across the harbour, whether you're enjoying the on-site dining at Rowes Wharf Sea Grille or indulging in the comforts of your guestroom. Rest your head here for an irresistible taste of Boston.
