This 50-acre park has played many parts over the centuries including a cow pasture, British war camp, and protest headquarters. Today it offers an urban escape to Bostonians who refer to it simply as “The Commons”.

As the oldest city park in the United States, Boston Common has several interesting landmarks, including the Granary Burial Grounds at its border (where Paul Revere is buried), but the Commons is mostly known for its usable open space for picnics, gatherings, exercise, team sports, festivals, and special events throughout the year. Its most popular attraction — the frog pond — becomes a splash pool in the summer and ice skating rink in the winter.

Boston Common is a great starting point for those walking the Freedom Trail and you’ll find a Visitor Center for all of Boston on the Tremont Street side of the park.