Folklorica

The Salem Witch Museum recreates and examines a dark part of early American history. The Salem witch trials sound like a tale of fiction, merely folklore, but over 180 people were accused and imprisoned for practicing witchcraft with some convictions leading to death by hanging. If you were a witch or were accused of being one in 1692, Salem, Massachusetts was the last place you'd want to be and this museum is the best place to learn why.

Head to the Back Bay Fens and hang out next to a beautiful freshwater marsh. Along with the marsh, this link in the Emerald Necklace park system is home to ball fields, a wartime “Victory Garden” that was established in 1941, and the popular Kelleher Rose Garden, among other outdoor attractions. While you're exploring the park, be sure to pay respects at the World War II, Vietnam, and Korean War memorials that reside in the park.

Spend some time playing on the Charles River. Enjoy some water recreation by renting a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from Charles River Canoe & Kayak. The company also offers kayak tours of the river and the Boston Harbor.

Step inside the home of an original patriot at The Paul Revere House. The home dates back to the 1680s and is still outfitted as a home back then would be; 90% of the structure is original. Paul Revere lived here during the same time period as his famous “Midnight Ride,” where he warned patriots that the British were coming. Shortly after this infamous night ride, the opening shots of the American Revolution were fired.