Baseball in the Bay State

Description:

Take a tour of the Harpoon Brewery or enjoy one of their HarpoonFests (2 held in the spring and then again as an Octoberfest). That is if you can find it. All but hidden along the South Boston waterfront, past the many happening spots along the way, you'll find this Boston original where good beer and good friends can come together. Tours and tastings happen daily.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
306 Northern Ave., tel. 888-427-7666
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One of the Nation's oldest public parks, Boston Common, encompasses nearly 50 acres and was once used as pasture land by Puritan settlers. Also former military grounds, The Boston Common played an important role in shaping America. Today, the park is a popular destination for recreational athletics, joggers, and families. The Frog Pond is a year round favorite; functioning as a wading pool in the summer and a skating rink in the winter, it transforms for use throughout the seasons.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
148 Tremont St., tel. 888-733-2678
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The Barking Crab sits along the edge of Boston Harbor; serves up seafood semi- al fresco in the warmer months and gives diners a clam shack style atmosphere in the heart of Boston. Super casual, and frequented by locals looking to dine or just drink outside The Barking Crab is a popular joint. The meals served here are basic, mostly seafood focused, and prices a bit on the high side ($29 for a naked lobster roll), but the atmosphere is not to be missed. If summer finds the Barking Crab too crowded for you to get through the door, no worries, it is open all year, and the indoor area is quite charming, even fitted with a cozy fireplace.

-Jessica Polizzotti

88 Sleeper St., tel. 617-426-CRAB

www.barkingcrab.com

Description:

Regina's looks almost like a movie set, but look a little closer -- this local legend is the place the movie sets are trying to re-create. It's been in business since 1926, and the only thing that's changed recently is the end of the cash-only policy in 2008. As it has for decades, the line stretches up the street on busy nights, but even at off hours, business is seldom slow. Locals often call for take-out; if you borrow that tactic, though, you'll miss the full experience. Busy waitresses who might call you "dear" weave through the boisterous dining room, shouting orders and questions as they deliver peerless pizza steaming hot from the brick oven. (You can also drop in for a slice, weekdays at lunch only.) Let it cool a little before you dig in. Nouveau ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes appear on the list of toppings, but that's not authentic. House-made sausage, maybe some pepperoni, and a couple of beers -- now, that's authentic.

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Comfort is the idea at this Boston Waterfront eatery. Lush couches and big-screen televisions give the place a homey feel. Comfort food like Grandma's Meatloaf will make you feel right at home, and there is even a fireplace for those chilly Boston nights.

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Two brothers give rivalry a scrumptious twist at this southern end of Boston. There is a dual menu format, with each brother preparing one set respectively. Check the oyster stew with chive foam, bacon, potatoes and chervil by Chef David. Also try the carpaccio of tuna with shaved fennel salad, pine nuts, basil, raisins and arugula by Chef Bob. Draw your own comparisons with the desserts too. Sorbets of dark chocolate and lemon mousseline with crushed fresh raspberries whipped with soft white cream, are some of desserts available. You really have to dine here to find out which of the brothers triumphs. Till then the rivalry sizzles! Private dinner parties can be arranged.

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Many amazing adventures await at the Children's Museum; kids can climb the centrally located maze, blow big bubbles in the dedicated bubble room, build something solid in the construction zone, learn about culture, and even countdown to kindergarten in the make-shift classroom. The Boston Children's Museum also features the perfect place for the under 3 crowd, Playspace. This room comes complete with crawling structures, small-scale slides, cars to drive and even daily crafts. There is no doubt that kids will have fun here, but adults will also enjoy returning to childhood at the Boston Children's Museum.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
300 Congress St., tel. 617-426-6500
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Description:

Boston Harbor is a beautiful retreat from the city in any season. It is also the departure point for ferries to Cape Cod and the South Shore, whale watches and moonlit cruises. The history of the harbor has not been forgotten; the Boston Tea Party took place here and is recreated annually. The New England Aquarium is located on the water's edge. As you walk by, peek at the large tank to the left of the entrance-sometimes there are harbor seals living in it.

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The adventure begins before you step foot through the door. Watch the Harbor Seals swirl around in the outdoor tank while you wait for tickets, or linger when you finish and recount your time inside. A four-story tank spans the center of this aquatic marvel; filled with marine life this is a sight to be seen. Catch a show in the glass enclosed classroom, plunge your hands into the touch tank or pop by the children's room with your little ones. Whale Watch cruises are available seasonally and are a special way to enhance your day.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
1 Central Wharf, tel. 617-973-5200
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This historic cemetery, established in 1660, is the final resting place of many notable figures of the American Revolution. Besides famous patriots such as Samuel Adams and Paul Revere, the graves of the Boston Massacre victims (and Elizabeth "Mother" Goose herself) are among the more renowned in the graveyard. Located on the Freedom Trail across from the Park Street Church, this cemetery is a piece of Boston's varied history, and worth a visit. Wander the haphazard rows and see if you can recognize some of the thousands of names-you may be surprised by what you find.

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This is the spot where Robert Newman signaled Cambridge residents of the British approach by sea with two of Paul Revere's lanterns on the night of April 18, 1775. The oldest church building in Boston and still an active Episcopal church, it was designed by William Price from a study of Christopher Wren's London churches. Private benches boxed in with family names helps paint a picture of the past. An excellent museum is hidden in the back of the gift shop next door.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
193 Salem St., tel. 617-523-6676
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For a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding area, take a trip to this skywalk observatory. The windows here present a vista of Boston in all directions. On a clear day, visitors can see the mountains of New Hampshire. Museum-like displays offer detailed information on the history of Boston's geography. See their website for information on prices and further details.

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The Boston Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books . Historically significant as the first public library in the country, it is designed more like a museum than anything else. A stunning courtyard and restaurant are part of this space, and allow you to make a day of your library visit. Enjoy lunch or tea at the Courtyard Restaurant. The Boston Public Library offers public tours highlighting the architecture, and the works of famed sculptors and painters. The tours last about an hour and is free without having to schedule ahead.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
700 Boylston St., tel. 617-536 5400
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Part of the Emerald Necklace, famous for the loop of green space that circles the city, is the Franklin Park Zoo. One of the best Zoos around, the Franklin Park Zoo is worth seeing. Franklin Park Zoo is a 72-acres packed with wildlife that has been in Boston's historic Franklin Park for one hundred years! Along with their usual animal exhibits, the Zoo often holds special events, celebrations, and wildlife exhibits.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
1 Franklin Park Rd., tel. 617-541-5466
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Description:

This paneled, high-ceilinged room feels like an old-fashioned men's club -- but one that welcomes women. The lighting is muted, the leather seating soft and welcoming, and the raw bar picture-perfect. There's live entertainment on weekends. Proper dress (no shorts or sneakers) is required. Open Sunday through Thursday until midnight, Friday and Saturday until 1am.

Description:

A large, clubby space decorated with brass sconces and a mahogany bar, this club has 55 tables, tasty bar food, and full liquor service. If you don't want to wait for a table, ask about reserving a private room (from $30/hr.). Like other establishments in this neighborhood, it's a madhouse on Red Sox game days and nights. Open daily from noon to 2am.

Description:

Big, loud and fun are the words to describe this sports bar. Tourists from the Boston Marriott Copley Place and neighborhood locals come to watch sporting events on the 22 televisions or two large screens inside. If you cannot get tickets for the Red Sox or the Patriots, try this Boston sporting experience, complete with roaring crowd and memorabilia-covered walls. Buffalo wings and cheese burgers make up the standard pub menu. On weekends, look out for a rowdy, dancing crowd.

Description:

This dueling piano bar will have you laughing, singing and swaying to the melody with beer in hand. A visit here is a great alternative to the city's crowded dance clubs. Long rows of tables and chairs hold large groups. Expect to sing some classic rock 'n roll tunes at this 360-capacity club, which boasts tropical murals on its walls. The musicians encourage audience requests, and the crowd at this packed club really gets into the act. Reservations are recommended.

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Daisy Buchanan's is not your typical Newbury Street find. In fact, it is not fancy, althouh you'd never guess that by the attire worn by the weekend crowd, and it is quite the singles spot for Boston residents. Jam packed on weekends, Daisy Buchanan's tends to host singles in their 20's looking to mingle. Known as a spot that professional athletes like to stop, you may find yourself side by side with "the guy from that team", or maybe just a local University co-ed. Weeknights at Daisy Buchanan's are more laid back, and the after work following is huge leading you to encounter a mix of people over 21, including an older crowd.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
240 Newbury Street, tel. 617-247-8516
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Description:

The popular Irish bar-cum-nightclub-cum-restaurant hosts is located in Allstom neighborhood. The DJs at this spot entertain the crowds each night. The bar keeps the revellers happy and the food lets them lets them recharge after a bout of dancing. If you have a reason to celebrate or simply want to chill out with your friends head here and enjoy!

Description:

This Beacon Hill pub is full of history (complete with pictures depicting the original Scollay Square) and it's affordable. The inexpensive steaks and sandwiches are certainly pleasing to those on a budget. The best prices are on Monday and Tuesday, when the price of chicken wings drops to 10 cents each, although these spicy morsels would be outstanding at any price. With the money left your wallet, get a pitcher of Guinness Stout, cider or frozen cocktails. The kitchen closes at midnight.

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There are few places you can go on a warm evening in Boston's Back Bay for food, drinks, and outdoor seating both rooftop and street level. Although the rooftop bar does not provide much of view, guests still enjoy their time mingling on top of it all. For those who prefer to people watch, score a seat on the street level patio and watch the world walk by. The Rattlesnake always draws a crowd, especially after work when Boston residents are eager to let loose. And many come for the food just as much as they come for the drinks because Poe's Kitchen's Southwestern style fare get's rave reviews from return guests.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
384 Boylston Street, tel. 617-859-8555
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Description:

This popular Beacon Hill bar gets jam-packed on the weekends and tends to draw the 20-something crowd. The Beacon Hill Pub has all the characteristics of a college bar with few bar stools and a lot of people standing around enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and company. The crowd tends to feature those a little older than your typical college students but it is definitely a young, hip group. Beer prices are cheap and there are pinball machines, videogames, dartboards and a juke box. Cash only; credit cards not accepted.

Description:

Purists might sneer at the Black Rose's touristy location, but performers don't. Sing along with the authentic entertainment at this jam-packed pub and restaurant at the edge of Faneuil Hall Marketplace. You might even be able to make out the tune on a fiddle over the din.

Our Local Expert Says:

It gets crowded on warm summer nights, to avoid a line get there before 10.

Description:

From early spring to the end of the summer, hordes of young professionals flock to this popular watering hole. Perched on the water's edge, this hot spot is where many come to relax after a day in the office or touring with a frozen margarita or a cold beer. The brick patio gets jam-packed starting at 5pm on summer nights. The small, wrought-iron tables overflow with those looking to unwind, meet someone new or enjoy some Chicken Wings, Nachos or Steamed Clams.

Description:

This Irish bar and bistro in the hip South End has a variety of entrees as well as ample space for private functions and large parties. The lounge holds plush sofas, interesting wall art and an inviting fireplace. The bar, popular with a boisterous after-work crowd, has large French doors that are open during the warmer months. Bar food is on the menu: nachos, fried calamari, pizza, burgers and clam chowder. Fish and chips, shepherd's pie and Angus steaks are also served. The popular Sunday brunch offers a carving station and omelets.

Description:

This up-market sports bar and restaurant is quite popular with the Fleet Center crowd. It has an old pub facade outside and the bar inside is quite nice. As well as enjoying some beers and drinks, the Fours Boston is a spot to indulge in some good food. It serves a wide range of menu items from steaks and seafood to pastas. They also have a big sandwich selection. This establishment seems to be a place where the executive type and the 30-something crowd head to before and after Bruins and Celtics games.

Description:

Board the trolleys of Old Town Trolley for continuous commentary from a well versed guide who will show you the best of Boston's sights. Tours leave from many convenient locations throughout Boston and are an excellent way to become acquainted with the city. Stops throughout the city, and the ability to pop on and off when you want to spend a little more time, shopping, eating or drinking, allow flexibility in this in depth tour of Boston proper.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
380 Dorchester Avenue, tel. 800-868-7482
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Description:

Situated in downtown Boston along the historic Freedom Trail, the New England Holocaust Memorial commemorates this tragic event. Dedicated in October of 1995, the memorial features six 54-foot-high glass towers. When completely illuminated at night the memorial becomes a breathtaking sight. The six towers are meant to represent the six Nazi death camps, and six million numbers of those who perished due to the genocide of this event are etched into the in glass. A granite panel provides an outline of the key historical events of this time period.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
Carmen Park, tel. 617-457-8755
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Description:

Constructed in the North End using bolts, spikes and other fittings from Paul Revere's foundry, "Old Ironsides" is steeped with Boston history. One of the US Navy's six original frigates, the USS Constitution did not lose any of the 40 battles in which it participated. Currently the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat, this impressive craft is open for free guided tours, which are narrated by the USS Constitution's active-duty sailors themselves.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
1 Constitution Rd., tel. 617-242-7511
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Description:

Spanning the area between South Station and the Boston Common, this neighborhood is filled with many Chinese immigrants and their businesses. There are numerous Chinese restaurants as well as bakeries and teahouses. In addition, there are Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese restaurants in the neighborhood. Specialty shops sell everything from medicinal dried roots and herbs to fine jade jewelry. Food markets sell fresh fish, hard-to-find Asian vegetables and even live poultry.

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This concrete formation is a wading pool in summer, but it is its winter incarnation as a 16,000-foot outdoor skating rink that gets the most use. On crisp Boston nights, there may be nothing better than a twirl on the ice beneath the trees of the Boston Common and the lights of downtown skyscrapers. You may even have an audience;crowds often gather on the rail around the pond to watch the skaters glide. Entry free for children under 13. Skate rentals available for a reasonable price.

Description:

Discover Boston's Italian neighborhood, the North End, and its fine food establishments. This three-hour tour is Michele or one of her prsonally trained guides. Follow the cobblestone streets and discover small markets that supply ingredients for the enticing menus on Hanover Street. Michele will offer a history of the North End before delving into different stores and pointing out food products and ingredients that are staples of authentic Italian cuisine. And yes, there are free samples.

Our Local Expert Says:

Stop in the many boutiques on Newbury Street. If you want a break from shopping, stroll down Commonwealth Avenue, where many people walk their dogs.

Description:

The quaint, tree-lined streets in this neighborhood are filled with brownstone shops, restaurants, bars and upscale housing. The Public Garden is the neighborhood border. From there, you can amble along the wide sidewalks of Commonwealth Avenue or down lively Newbury or Boylston Streets. There are many types of international foods available, from tapas to sushi. Numerous bars serve as meeting places for talking, drinking and dancing. Also in the neighborhood are the John Hancock Tower and the Prudential Center, two of Boston's most prominent skyscrapers.

Description:

The classic steak house experience in the ultra posh Back Bay area will have you rubbing elbows with the rich and famous. There's a good reason celebrities flock here for a meal-the food is always good and the scene is always in style. Dive into one of their perfectly prepared steaks and you'll fall in love with the food in front of you. But be sure to order a selection of sides to share; if you don't you'll be missing out on some of the best items on the menu.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
900 Boylston Street, 617-262-8900
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Description:

If your idea of heaven is a martini in one hand and a cigar in the other, then this classic hotel bar is for you. A selection of fine cigars is available, the drink selection is excellent, and the menu features superb steaks. This lounge has the feel of an old-world bar yet it is very cosmo. Piano music adds to the upscale atmosphere. This is clearly a first-class establishment, so dress appropriately. The Copley Plaza Hotel staff allow jeans, but not shorts, T-shirts or sneakers.

Description:

There is often a line in front of this well-known Back Bay eatery at the upper end of Newbury Street. The patient are rewarded with tasty breads, original variations of iced tea served in glass bottles and hearty salads. Try the grilled pork chop with apple-onion chutney or comfort dishes like meatloaf or pot-pie. The marble-topped full service bar and two bright and airy dining rooms make this a pleasant stop for a pre-shopping Sunday brunch.

Description:

Union Oyster House is a taste of Boston history. Opened in 1826, and holding the title of America's oldest restaurant, Union Oyster House still offers one mean oyster bar. Just outside Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Union Oyster House is the perfect place to start your tour. Sit at the first floor raw bar to devour your oysters, or step into the past and explore the rest of the place. Cozy booths line this relic and the smaller scale helps transport diners to a time when things were not so "big".

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert

41 Union St., tel. 617-227-2750

www.unionoysterhouse.com