How well do you know Boston?
Boston is one of America's oldest cities, full of firsts. Six questions, from easy to hard, with explanations.
Did you know?
- In 1919, a huge tank of molasses burst in Boston's North End, sending a wave of syrup through the streets. The Great Molasses Flood is one of the city's strangest historical events.
- Boston Latin School, founded in 1635, is the oldest public school in the United States. It still operates today as a highly selective public school.
- Boston's Public Garden, next to Boston Common, opened in 1837 as the first public botanical garden in the US. Its famous swan boats have carried visitors since 1877.
A city of American firsts
Boston, founded in 1630, is one of the oldest cities in the United States and the capital of Massachusetts. Compact and walkable, it combines colonial history with world-leading universities, hospitals and technology companies. Many American 'firsts' happened here, from public schools to subways.
Education capital
Boston is home to the first public school in America, Boston Latin School, founded in 1635. Harvard University, founded in 1636 in neighboring Cambridge, is the oldest university in the country, and the region's many colleges attract students from around the world.
Walking through history
The Freedom Trail connects historic sites such as Faneuil Hall, the Old State House and the Old North Church. Walking it, visitors see centuries-old buildings among modern offices, showing how the city has grown while preserving its past.
Sports passion
Boston fans are known for their devotion to local teams, including the Red Sox, Celtics, Bruins and Patriots. Fenway Park, the oldest Major League ballpark, is a pilgrimage site for baseball fans.
Neighborhoods
Boston's neighborhoods include Beacon Hill, with its gas lamps and brick sidewalks; the North End, with Italian bakeries and restaurants; and Back Bay, with Victorian brownstones. Each offers a different glimpse of the city's character.
Harbor and islands
Boston Harbor, once heavily polluted, has been cleaned up dramatically since the 1990s. The Boston Harbor Islands, reachable by ferry, now offer beaches, hiking and historic forts just minutes from downtown. Along the waterfront, the Harborwalk path runs for miles past wharves, parks and museums such as the New England Aquarium.
Science and medicine
The Boston area is a world leader in medicine and biotechnology. Massachusetts General Hospital, founded in 1811, is one of the oldest hospitals in the United States, and the region's universities and research institutes attract scientists from around the globe. Kendall Square in neighboring Cambridge is packed with biotech and technology companies.