History in Boston, Massachusetts - 24-Hour Travel Guide
Overview - Boston is the old dame of cities, and remains so. This is a day that takes us from Harvard, to Paul Revere, to Little Italy for a taste of history.
Breakfast - Have breakfast on Harvard Square in Cambridge, at Au Bon Pain. It's a quiet time as students are all probably asleep, and you can walk around the campus a bit. Harvard is the oldest university in the US, founded in 1639 or so. The ivy buildings are classic.
Morning -
The Boston Commons is nice for a walk---and the historical North Church is there. There's a walking tour of historical revolutionary sites that will take a few hours. After that, head over to the Boston Harbor where they dumped the tea that started all the fuss.
Lunch - Since you are at the waterfront, have an Italian lunch at the Waterfront Cafe. It's a classical Italian Bistro, and a great entry into the afternoon.
Afternoon - Wander through Little Italy in the North End of Boston before heading to Paul Revere House, Then pick up the Freedom Trail and wander to Faneuil Hall, an old market and gathering area. There's enough here to keep you intrested, and if you run out of things, then continue your shopping at another famous historic site: Filene's Basement, the original one.
Dinner - Have dinner at the Green Dragon Tavern, which is supposedly where the revolution was actually plotted. And don't forget to order Boston Cream Pie for desert.
After Dark - Personally, I find Boston a bit quiet after dark, and would rather just read a history book in my hotel. However, if they are playing in town, go hear the Boston Pops symphony. They are even better in person than you would expect.
Sleep - Stay at the Omni Park House Hotel, the longest operating hotel in the USA. It's been going since the 1850's. Pretty darn good...still in business and first class.