Stroll through the fourth floor of Faneuil Hall to find this hidden piece of history. Founded in the 1800s, this museum-cum-library-cum-armory has military memorabilia and some of the oldest military artifacts in America. On the walls and enclosed in glass cases are antique weapons and faded uniforms. Also on display here are flags, military books and a wealth of paintings. This is an interesting place to stop and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Admission is free.

Located just outside the hustle and bustle of Faneuil Hall, this haunting monument built in 1995, is covered with etched numbers recalling the 6 million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. New England Holocaust Memorial has a sombre ambiance and sets an almost too pensive mood for visitors. Six glass towers, representing the chimneys of World War II concentration camps, are designed to educate as well as commemorate this 20th-century tragedy.

With an antique brick facade set among downtown skyscrapers, any passerby can pick this building out as a relic from an earlier time. Now a museum run by The Bostonian Society, the site has a long and distinguished history. The Boston Massacre, one of the catalysts for the American Revolution, took place just outside. The Declaration of Independence was first read to Boston here on July 18, 1776. The structure served as the new state's capitol until 1797.

There are more than 100 places to eat, shop and drink at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, also known as Quincy Market. French merchant Peter Faneuil gave the hall that precedes the marketplace to his adopted home of Boston in 1742. It has been called the " "Cradle of Liberty because of the number of revolutionaries and abolitionists who delivered important speeches here. The hall is now a tourist center and place to shop, but public meeting facilities are still available.

If you plan on visiting the USS Constitution at the Charlestown Navy Yard, the USS Constitution Museum is a must-see, located adjacent to the ship. Come and discover what life was like for the crew that served on "Old Ironsides". Take a trip into American history learn about life on the sea, the Revolution, and the War of 1812. A fun, educational experience for the entire family. Be sure not to miss the gift shop so you can take a piece of history home with you!

The Brewster's Island is a three-acre expanse of land that is a Coast Guard navigational aid. Climb the 76 stairs and the two ladders to reach the top of the Boston Light on the island, which is the oldest running lighthouse in the country. Cruise out to this island for some adventure but make sure you don't take your pets along as they are not permitted here.

Located in the Charlestown Navy Yard, this organization offers sailing instruction and youth outreach programs. Guided tours of the inner harbor and Harbor Islands are also available. A fleet of J22s and Rhodes 19s is available for your cruising or racing pleasure. Sail past the U.S.S. Constitution and other naval vessels in dock and enjoy views of Boston from a unique perspective.

Home to the Outward Bound Education Center, this large island is closer to the city than the other islands in the Boston Harbor Island national recreation area. As a result, it has some of the most dramatic views of the Boston skyline. Open only with prior arrangement, the guided tours, fishing piers and picnic spots attract many from the mainland. The island is also available for functions and clambakes.

Berry bushes line most of the trails on this small, lush green island set in Hingham Bay. Just make sure you know which varieties are edible before eating any! Enjoy fine views of the harbor and city from a relaxing perch, or watch the cruising boaters in Hingham Bay. A permit is required for overnight camping. Access is by private boat or by free water taxi from George's Island. Gates open at 9 am daily.

This island is part of the Boston Harbor Islands national recreation area. You can see some of the island's history as you wander through the ruins of Fort Adams, which was a war post in the early 1900s and a World War II POW camp. You will also find nature trails and vistas that overlook the harbor and mainland. Brisk sea breezes will cool you on the hottest days of the year. A free water taxi to the island is available from George's Island. Summertime camping is allowed with a permit  Gates open at 9 am daily.