Fort Independence

A star fort built around 1850 to provide defenses for Boston harbor. Today, the guns are long gone, and it's a great place to go exploring. Fantastic views are rewarded to those who scale its granite walls. Even if the fort is closed, the grounds are always open. It's a great place to see families picnicking, going for a stroll around Pleasure Bay, or out flying kites in the brisk wind blowing in from the water. Kids love seeing (and hearing!) the planes up close, as they make their final approach to Logan Airport.

• free
• history
• family

Getting there

Castle Island

Hours

Thu 7PM-dusk, Sat Sun noon-3:30PM

Price

Free

Website

mass.gov (opens in a new tab)