One thing we thought might convince my sister of the goodness of Boston was to spend some time at one of Boston’s parks. The Boston Public Garden is a lovely spot nestled right in the city that’s perfect for lazing the day away in the hot summer weather. The garden really caters to children, and how can someone have a negative view of a city with so many cute kids around?
The garden is arranged around a small lake. A paved walking trail surrounds the lake and is perfect for strollers or even toddlers without the best coordination. Numerous benches are found along the path for people-watching or enjoying a cool Italian ice. Numerous ducks, including little fuzzy ducklings and two white swans, can be seen along the lake.
For $2.50, adults can take a ride on a human-powered swan boat around the lake (children older than 2 are $1). The ride is really quite brief, just several minutes long, and if you’re busy trying to get your child to sit down in these boats without side rails, you may find that it’s over before you’ve had a chance to relax.
The statues in the garden are all impressive in their own way. Several fountains attract birds looking for a drink or some shade. George Washington on his horse stands majestic in the middle of the garden. If you’re traveling with kids, probably the most fun will be had with the "Make Way for Ducklings" statues—eight ducklings following their mother are a great photo-op as children climb all over the metal sculptures.