ton has always been one of my favorite cities. I've recently been able to spend some time in the hub of the universe this past week for a second time, indulging myself in it's rich, American history. The first time I visited the city I did every traditional touristy thing possible. From following close behind some colonial dressed tour guide down the Freedom Trail to crossing the harbor to Salem, I definitely covered most tourist attractions Boston had to offer. The second time around, I made it a point to do or visit a few things that are "off the beaten path."
After asking local Bostonians and finding some things on my own, here is a list of five things or places you should check out next time you're in Boston that you may not have read in a tour book.
1. Go on a tour of Fenway Park
Everyone always says to go to a Red Sox's game, but another fun way to get to know the park is to tour it. Getting to sit onthe Green Monster to seeing the red chair marking the furthest home run hit in the park by Ted Williams makes for a unique Fenway experience that you won't forget.
2. Visit Edgar Allan Poe Square
Unfortunately, Poe's house and street no longer exist due to reformations years ago. However, now there is this wonderful plaza with a plaque that is near to where his house would have stood. While the plaza may not have any huge attractions, any literary lover will relish in being where Poe once resided.
3. Go to the Boston Globe
While I may be a tad bit biased due to my absurd love for journalism and the Boston Globe, being able to see how a real newspaper works is pretty amazing. The newsroom, printing press and general history of the Globe are all included with a tour. Extra tip: if you fan-girl just the right amount, the security guard will give you a free paper!
4. Eat at the Green Dragon Tavern
The Green Dragon Tavern is an adorable little tavern tucked away in an alley off one of the main roads near Quincy Market. At first glance it looks like your typical tavern with its dark, mysterious atmosphere and cottage-like appearance, but upon entering the tavern, history from the American Revolution fills the walls. The plans for the invasion of Lexington and Concord were overheard in the bar sparking Paul Revere's famous ride. But hey, their burgers are pretty good too.
5. Visit the Great Boston Molasses Flood site
If you find yourself wandering through Boston's North End you may come across a rather strange site. The Boston Molasses Flood site. Yes, a flood of molasses. There was a tank of molasses that exploded under pressure in 1919 and that killed 21 people and crumpled buildings. I won't give away the full story as to why there was such a huge tank of molasses, but I can tell you that a flood of molasses is definitely not what expected to find when walking the streets of Boston.
While I could go on forever about fun, obscure things to find in Boston, I will leave that up to the adventurer. Boston is its revolutionary past and so much more and I encourage everyone to get to know a different corner of the hub of the universe.
