Site of the Great Molasses Flood
On January 15, 1919, a gigantic tank filled with 2.3 million gallons of molasses burst, sending a crushing, 30-foot, 14,000-ton wave along the waterfront near the North End. The accident killed 21 people and injured 150 more. Today, a plaque commerates those who died; some say that on a hot, humid day you can still smell the molasses. (Globe file photo)
Location: Lagone Park in the North End, Boston
Public Transportation: North Station (Green or Orange Line)
Cost and Hours: Free, open 24 hours/day

Christopher Columbus Park and Rose Kennedy Garden
Separating the North End and the waterfront, Christopher Columbus Park gives visitors ample open space to enjoy. During warmer months the park is popular with dog owners (so watch where you step), while the Rose Kennedy Garden provides a serene setting to read a book or enjoy a snack.
Location: Along the Waterfront, Boston
Public Transportation: Aquarium (Blue Line)
Cost and Hours: Free, open 24 hours/day

The New England Aquarium
Set right along the water, the Aquarium features both indoor and outdoor exhibits designed for the whole family. Take the kids up and down the spiral staircase to see the cleverly-designed five-story aquarium filled with giant sea turtles, barracuda and sharks. Seals will meet and greet you outside, and the penguins are always popular.
Location: Central Wharf, Boston
Public Transportation: Aquarium (Blue Line)
Cost and Hours: Cost: Adult $15.95, 60+ yrs $13.95, 3-11 yrs $8.95, Under 3 free. Go to www.neaq.org for hours.

Hood Milk Bottle
Standing 40 feet tall, this giant milk bottle sits next to the Boston Children’s Museum, just across the Fort Point Channel. In 1930, Hood Dairy built the structure entirely of wood, and it was moved to its current spot in 1977. The bottle is home to an ice cream stand and snack bar during the summer, and there are tables nearby where you can sit and relax. It's would take an estimated 50,000 gallons of dairy product to fill the monster milk bottle.
Location: 300 Congress St., Boston
Public Transportation: South Station (Red Line)
Cost and Hours: Free, open 24 hours/day

The MTV Real World House
The year was 1997, and seven strangers moved into this 2,500 square foot converted firehouse in Beacon Hill to have their lives taped for a season of "The Real World" on MTV. The firehouse sits on the corner of Mt. Vernon and River streets, just off Charles Street, and now houses an independent community center.
Location: 127 Mount Vernon St., Beacon Hill, Boston
Public Transportation: Charles/MGH (Red Line)
Cost and Hours: Doors open to members only