Boston Common & Public Garden

Verdant Boston Common has hosted auctions, cattle grazing, and public hangings over its 350-year history, in addition to festivals and the requisite frisbee tosses. The adjacent Public Garden, opened in 1839, was the USA’s first botanical garden. Its swan boats, weeping willows, and bridge are emblematic of Boston at its most enchanting. The French-style flowerbeds may only bloom in warmer months, but the garden exudes old-world charm year round.

Bounded by Beacon, Park, Tremont, Arlington, & Boylston streets “T” station: Park Street (red/green line), Boylston, & Arlington stops (both green line) Open 24 hours Boston Common Visitors’ Center 148 Tremont St 617 426 3115 Open 8:30am–5pm Mon– Fri, 9am–5pm Sat & Sun Boston Parks & Recreation 617 635 4505 www.bostonusa.com Swan boat rides 617 522 1966 Mid-Apr– mid-Sep: usually 10am– 5pm daily Adm: $2.75 www.swanboats.com