Boston Common050

Don't let the name fool you. The Boston Common is anything but. It has the grand distinction of being the oldest public park in the U.S. It's also the first stop on the Freedom Trail.

Take a stroll through the park, throw a frisbee, fly a kite, sled (when there's snow), stop for some yummy fried dough or hang out under one of those really old trees. The playground is nothing special, but worth a stop if you're already there.

A stroll around the Common's 40+ acres reveals some of the city's more memorable historical sculptures. One in particular is Augustus Saint-Gauden's tribute to the 54th Regiment, an all-black group of volunteer soldiers during the Civil War. It is the first stop on the Black Heritage Trail.

The real fun on the Common happens in the summer and winter. The Frog Pond becomes an outdoor skating rink in the winter and a wading pool with fountain in the summer. These activities delight young and old alike, and add a little zip to the park.

Visitors should note that the Common is not the spot for a moonlight stroll. Although perfectly safe during the day, the evening hours bring out some of Boston's less than charming inhabitants.

June's Dairy Festival (The Common originated as "common ground" for grazing animals, so it's only right the cow theme should return annually) raises money for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and includes a $3 all-you-can-eat ice cream deal.