Ten Boston Icons: Old and New
Of course, Boston's storied icons (items 1-5) include classic colonial -era architecture and quaint landmarks. And you just got to love Boston's modern icons (items 6-10); innovative design of buildings and grand public works projects, along with a very cool pop-culture sign.
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The world’s oldest (1797) commissioned naval ship still afloat. She’s nicknamed “Old Ironsides" because in battle, cannonballs are said to have bounced off her strong oak hull. Very “Master and Commander.”
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Designed by “America’s first architect”, Charles Bulfinch, and dating from 1795, this is one of Boston’s oldest buildings. With its gold dome overlooking Beacon Hill, this is easily one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks.
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Dating from 1912, this is the oldest ballpark in the major leagues and hallowed ground for Red Sox baseball fans.
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A timeless image of New England; Revolutionary War history, the steeple of Old North Church, all framed by a canopy of mature trees. A great "I've been to Boston" photo-op.
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A ride on these charming Victorian –era pedal boats is a Boston tradition.
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Built in 2002, “the Zakim” soars across the Charles River at North Station and is the world’s widest cable-stayed bridge. The bridge commemorates both the work of late, local civil rights leader Lenny Zakim as well as the Battle of Bunker Hill.
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This hotel stands out along the waterfront and is known locally as “the hotel with the hole in the middle.” The grand archway is especially lovely at night.
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The huge 60 -foot by 60- foot sign of the Citgo Petroleum Company's red, white and blue logo is located in Kenmore Square and practically overlooks Fenway Park’s left field. Baseball fans interpretation of the sign? “See it go.” As in a home run.
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Hands-down, this new 1-mile ribbon of park space along Boston’s waterfront is the most delightful outcome from the completion of the “Big Dig”, Boston's seemingly never-ending Central Artery/Tunnel Project. Catch a sea breeze while sitting on a bench at the Wharf District Park, enjoy a takeout espresso at the many bistro tables in the North End Park, or walk in quiet contemplation along the bamboo -lined path in the Chinatown Park.
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Perched on the edge of Boston Harbor, this is the ICA’s new facility (opened in 2006) and is a must-see for fans of contemporary art and architecture.
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