Boston, Massachusetts

By Suzanne T. Scribner

Growing up in Boston I have gained a wealth of knowledge about the Boston Tea Party, Sam Adams (not just the beer) and how “The British are coming!” I’ve walked the Freedom Trail many a time and ventured aboard the U.S.S. Constitution, and was at one point lucky enough to see Old Ironsides set sail in the Boston Harbor. Only recently, did I realize what a treat it has been to see all of the things that I read about in my history books first hand. How many people can say that they have dined at America’s oldest restaurant or enjoyed a pint or two in the same pub that Paul Revere and the Sons of Liberty frequented?    

But if history isn’t your thing and The American Revolution is about as exciting to you as watching paint dry, don’t worry. You don’t need to be an avid historian or even have read your high school history books to enjoy the history of Beantown; any old sports fan, TV fanatic or shopoholic can enjoy a taste of the Hub’s earlier days.

A beautiful summer night, a Green Monster and a bleacher seat will placate the soul of any Boston tourist, especially those with an affinity for baseball. Fenway Park, built in 1912, and once home to baseball greats like Babe Ruth, Cy Young and Ted Williams is still home to the unforgiving “Curse of the Bambino” or so goes the excuse as to why the Sox have not won a World Series since 1918.

For the TV fanatics out there, Boston is home to one of television’s most beloved sitcoms, Cheers. Located on Beacon Hill, this basement pub brings back the memories of Sam Malone and crew with Cheers paraphernalia lining the restaurant walls and on sale to help you remember your brush with fame.

Shopoholics are blessed with Newbury Street. Lined with boutiques, spas, outdoor cafes and name brand stores, Newbury will have you looking your best and feeling great. Historically speaking, it’s a bit pricey. But remember you are in Boston and lucky for you, in 1908 the first Filene’s Basement opened here and is now located in Downtown Crossing. Selling designer fashions at bargain prices this is the place to get new shoes for your feet and a new shirt on your back without breaking the bank.

Regardless of whether you are happiest admiring the monument at Bunker Hill, filling your face with a Fenway Frank, hoping that “everyone will know your name” or walking down the street in your new kicks, the best part of Boston is meeting up with your friends. So pick a local pub, grab a cold Sam and cheers the history of Boston for all it can do for you.