Recently in Boston Category

The Boston/Lexington area is certainly not wanting for museums, but after a few too many hours spent gazing into glass display cases, everything starts to look kind of the same. That's why the National Heritage Museum is so refreshing. This unique destination is dedicated to telling the story of the nation using rich compelling narratives, dynamic displays, and interactive hands-on activities. The sheer breadth of subjects covered by the museum is truly inspiring, ranging from the historical - Paul Revere, George Washington, and the American Revolution - to the cultural, with exhibits on everything from neon signs to roadside diners and that classic American highway, Route 66. There's even a section called Made in Massachusetts that features objects from the early 18th century to a few of the things we use today. Whether it's a selection of toys, such as a child's red fire engine (pictured) or a bewildering assortment of clocks and timepieces, the common thread linking them all together is their usefulness in everyday life. Guests at the nearby aloft Lexington, element Lexington, or any of Starwood's Boston/Lexington-area properties might enjoy this innovative perspective on the lives of Americans through three centuries.

[image via National Heritage Museum]

Boston is surrounded by water, so it makes sense that it would boast a world-class aquarium. For nearly forty years, the New England Aquarium has maintained one of the broadest collections of sea life in the world in a series of technologically advanced marine habitats designed to recreate the animals' natural territory. The result has been one of the most visited aquariums on earth, welcoming more than 1.5 million people a year who do more than look at fish, they actually learn something about the environment. From penguins, octopuses, and harbor seals to big, toothy sharks who would probably eat the penguins, octopuses, and harbor seals if given the chance, the New England Aquarium has animals representing the seven seas and every climate zone you can think of. Sea dragons are among my personal favorites. They're just the most amazing-looking creatures, I could watch them for hours. In addition, lectures, discussions, and even themed dinners make this more than just a museum. Starwood has several properties in the Boston area, including Le Méridien Cambridge.

Of Boston's many attractions, perhaps its most beloved isn't in the city itself, but floating on the water of Boston Harbor. The USS Constitution is an original three-masted heavy frigate of the U.S. Navy, and it has been in service for more than 200 years, having been originally launched in 1797. Today, it's the oldest commissioned ship afloat anywhere and a "ship of state," intended to represent United States naval traditions to the world. To that end, visitors can board and tour this remarkable vessel that served the nation through the first Barbary War, the War of 1812, the Civil War, and countless other missions. Anybody who has ever dreamed of taking off on a sailing ship to see the world will appreciate the many fine details of "Old Ironsides," from its intricate sails and rigging to its expansive wooden decks, which - true to history - require constant swabbing. In addition to the ship, there's also a museum nearby on dry land with exhibits describing the long, honorable life of this majestic sailing ship. Guests at the nearby Westin Boston Waterfront or any of Starwood's Boston properties might appreciate a tour or turnaround cruise on the floating piece of American history.

With the arrival of warm weather, travelers are compelled to visit beautiful green spaces, and in Boston, that means the parks of the Emerald Necklace. One of the finest is the Boston Public Garden, a 24-acre paradise that's provided a sanctuary for busy Bostoners since it was created in 1837. As the weather gets nicer, the park's trees and flowers bloom in a spectacular display of spring color, but the place boasts myriad other charms as well. A 15-minute lake cruise on a Swan Boat is a Boston tradition, and a perfect way to catch a breeze on a hot day. And to continue the waterfowl theme, the park also boasts a statue of the ducks that were made famous by the classic children's book Make Way for Ducklings, which tells the tale Mr. and Mrs. Mallard's adventures in raising their brood on an island in the park. If you're in town on Mother's Day, check out the Duckling Day Parade, which will have more than enough cuteness to last throughout the year. Starwood has hotels throughout the Boston and Cambridge area, including the nearby Sheraton Boston Hotel.