Boston's HarborWalk is the perfect way to remind yourself (and your kids) that the city we call home has a rich maritime history. It covers a lot of urban ground, but no matter which portion you explore, it can be a virtually free, outdoor, carless trip. We chose the Charlestown leg, and got there via the commuter rail to North Station. A short walk later we were at Paul Revere Park, hanging out at the playground and watching folks cast fishing lines into the Charles.
There were great views of the city skyline and lots of boats to look at as we continued on. Along the way, we perused outdoor exhibits about the history of the Charlestown waterfront and read about Frederic Tudor's mid-1800s ice trade (146,000 tons of Yankee ice a year shipped to the tropics for cold drinks).
At spots, the route seemed to reach a dead end and we had to find roundabout ways to get back on track. No worries - we had printed out the map from the HarborWalk website, and the minor detours just made the trip feel more like an adventure.
After going through security at the Charlestown Navy Yard, we learned about ships and ship building at the Visitor Center, then opted for the quick self-guided tour of the massive and magnificent USS Constitution, nicknamed “Old Ironsides” because of her impenetrable 20-inch-thick wooden sides.
The USS Constitution Museum looked enticing, but the sunshine was too good to leave, so we moved on to Shipyard Park, a lovely spot with benches, greenery, a playground, and a fountain/wading pool for summer days. It's a great spot to relax, play, and picnic.
Speaking of food, we didn't find a lot of choices, and were just about to give up on the idea of capping off a perfect day with cold treats when we discovered the Style Cafe and its frozen yogurt and smoothies.
Stomachs full, we began the journey home. Rather than backtrack, we caught the ferry to Long Wharf then rode the T to North Station, reflecting on the day's simple pleasures - seeing fuzzy goslings swimming alongside their mother, reading the names of boats, and enjoying the seaside breezes. The best things in life really are free.
The Boston HarborWalk www.bostonharborwalk.com
Charlestown Navy Yard www.nps.gov/bost/historyculture/cny.htm
Style Cafe, 197 8th St., Charlestown www.stylecafeonline.com
Commuter rail and ferry schedules www.mbta.com