Best of Boston

From its inauspicious beginnings as a swampy hinterland more than 150 years ago, this colorful green space at the heart of the city emerged as the country’s pioneering public botanical garden, the place where tulips were first displayed in America. Swan boats still whirl around the lagoon, and toddlers swoon over the Make Way for Ducklings statues. It’s also where families, couples, and tourists alike rest their feet and tear into their picnic baskets. Centrally located and spacious enough to spread out from neighbors, the garden is simply the ideal spot to spread a blanket, pop some munchies, and watch the world go by.