Boston Common

Boston Common is a local landmark and a national treasure.  Founded in 1634, the 50-acre park is the oldest city park in the USA.  British Redcoats camped on the Common during the American Revolution, and anti-slavery activists held meetings and the Union Army recruited soldiers here in the Civil War.  From its early days as an open space for grazing cows, military drills, and public hangings in the 1600s, 1700s, and early 1800s, the Common was transformed into a landscaped public greenspace in the heart of the city of Boston, complete with mature trees, fountains, ballfields, and a Frog Pond that serves as an ice-skating rink in winter and a splash-pool in summer.  Still the modern day home to many a festival and rally, Boston Common is the anchor of the Emerald Necklace network of connected parks throughout the city, and the first stop on the historic Freedom Trail.

• See the Massachuesetts State House, where the Massachuesetts State Government resides
• Explore the Boston Public Garden, a beautiful public botanical garden
• Watch the Brewer Fountain, the 22-foot tall bronze waterfountain