The Boston Common, which is the starting point for the Freedom Trail, is one of America 's oldest parks and covers almost 50 acres of land. Next to the Common is the Boston Public Garden , which includes a four-acre pond and several statues commemorating historical figures.
History buffs have several museums to choose from, such as the Boston Fire Museum , the Commonwealth Museum , the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and the Paul Revere House. Other museums include the Boston Children's Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts , the Museum of Science , and the Sports Museum of New England.
Boston is also a center for music and the arts. The Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Pops, and the Boston Ballet are time-honored institutions.
Sports plays a major role in Boston 's identity. The city is home to the Boston Red Sox, the Boston Celtics, and the New England Patriots. Each April, the city hosts the Boston Marathon, one of the world's most renowned sporting events. In October, rowers come from far and wide to participate in the world's largest regatta, the Head of the Charles.
Boston 's traditions can also be seen in its food. New England clam chowder is one of Boston 's most famous dishes, but ethnic specialties can also be found, and the city has as many high-end restaurants as it does pubs and taverns. Boston is home to the Sam Adams and Harpoon breweries, both of which offer tours and tastings.
Boston has a strong academic tradition, with over 100 colleges and universities in the Greater Boston area. Boston College , Emerson College , the Art Institute of Boston, and Harvard University in nearby Cambridge are just a few of the city's prestigious institutions. |