When the weather begins to warm up, New England turns into an extremely pleasant and picturesque area to venture to for a long weekend. At the heart of New England lays Boston, a dense urban center full of historic sites, elite academic institutions, skyscrapers, parks, and hip venues; attractions that are all but a short walk or train ride on this nation’s oldest subway system away; the T. While it is obvious that you cannot cover an entire city in a weekend, Boston’s compact square mileage and density allow for you to cover most of it and at least the parts you wish to see most, very easily.

Boston is a brilliant mix of tasteful sophistication and historic New England appeal. During a weekend visit to Boston, it is effortless to unearth the city’s vibrant history while also enjoying its uniquely modern frame. This Atlantic coast bay city is home to outstanding musical and theatrical productions, fanatical sports fans and teams, museums, trolley tours, ethnic and food and wine festivals.

An agenda for what to do during a weekend visit to Boston should be tailored to the individuals making the trip. Using this list as a guide, you will surely find more to enjoy than not. Just don’t forget to apply for your visa to the USA before showing up at the airport.

Freedom Trail

Many of Boston’s sights are located on the Freedom Trail and are available to enjoy for free. Walking is the best way to see this city and the Freedom Trail will lead you on a fantastic stroll through Boston’s brownstone Beacon Hill neighborhood on cobblestone paths in the shadow of the golden rotunda of the Massachusetts State Capitol. Take a break in the Boston commons and if you so choose, indulge with a ride on the famous swan boats. Finish your walk near the waterfront at Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market where there are a plethora of shops and restaurants to refresh.

Cambridge

Located across the Charles River, Cambridge is home to both Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), two of the finest and oldest academic institutions in the country. This truly unique city is host to a vibrant and diverse community of both academics and professionals. Harvard Square at the heart of Cambridge is more of a social and commercial focal point. There are plenty of bookshops, restaurants, bars, cafes, and options for both boutique and brand-name shopping. The best place  for a bite to eat is on Cambridge Street at the East Coast Grill.

Fenway Park

At Fenway, sure the seats are small and uncomfortable and the food and alcohol is extremely overpriced, but this park is absolutely a must-see for every sports fan young and old. The oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball located on famous Yawkey Way, is best known for its ambiance,  atmosphere and the Green Monster, a 37 foot high wall that extends straight from left field to center field where many heroes made names for themselves including gracefully-swinging left-fielder Ted Williams.

The North End

One evening of your trip must be spent dining in Boston’s famous Italian neighborhood, The North End. Anchored by its main drag, Hanover Street is host to various restaurants, bakeries and cheese and wine shops. You can’t go wrong eating at Giacomo’s, a very sma…intimate space with infamously long lines where you choose a pasta, a sauce, and a meat or fish and an Italian wait staff yells your order to an Italian chef in the kitchen. The wait is worth it! Top off your night with mouthwatering pastries at Mike’s!

The North Shore

This beautiful region north of Boston is a wonderful place to spend a day in New England outside the city of Boston and is all within an hour away. The north shore of Massachusetts is made up of a rocky coastline, marshes and wetlands, many beaches and harbors, as well as being home to a variety of delectable fresh seafood. The north shore is a haven for beach lovers and oceangoing types alike.

Being rich in American history also allows for interesting cultural activities — from the Salem Witch Trial attractions, to art museums to the many sites dedicated to the area’s seafaring heritage. Don’t leave without stopping at the original Kelly’s Roast Beef and Seafood on Revere Beach. A fat lobster roll and a hot clam chowder are absolutely necessary.

I hope you enjoy Boston as much as I did growing up there and that my Boston Travel Guide will make your visit to my home city one to remember.

By: Brian Longin