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Boston’s deep harbor made it ideal for one of the US Navy’s first shipyards. USS Constitution, the most famous of the yard’s progeny, is still docked here (see Charlestown Navy Yard).

Surrounded by lush greenery, Charley’s patio feels remarkably secluded despite its prime Newbury Street frontage. Simple bar staples like burgers, chicken wings, and massive salads attract a raucous after-work crowd.

Contemporary Hong Kong seafood reigns on the first two levels of this multi-story dining emporium. Some of Boston’s best dim sum is served on the top floor.

Cuba might seem an unlikely place for a French restaurant to draw inspiration, but therein lies Chez Henri’s irresistible appeal.

This venerable funhouse pioneered the interactive-exhibit concept that is now utilized in museums worldwide. Accolades aside, the Children’s Museum is an absolute blast for kids and parents alike. It includes a climbing wall, a sprawling jungle gym, and cultural experiences like a walk-through, simulated Latin American supermarket.

Educators at this ground-breaking interactive museum for kids pioneered some of the features now found in similar facilities around the world, including giant soap bubbles and complex rampways for marbles (see Children’s Museum).

Chinatown (see Chinatown, the Theater District, & South End) buzzes with the pageantry of the Chinese New Year every February. Streets are transformed into frenzied patchworks of color, while sidewalk vendors peddle steamed buns, soups, and other Chinese delights. Don’t miss the annual parade, held the Saturday following the Lunar New Year.

While believers head for the Romanesque-Byzantine basilica, the library (entered from Massachusetts Avenue) emphasizes inspirational facets of the founder’s life rather than church doctrine of the power of faith over sin and disease. The Mapparium, a walkthrough stained glass globe with 1935 political boundaries, remains the most popular exhibit. Peer into the newsroom of the Christian Science Monitor. Outside, a 670 ft- (204-m) long reflecting pool designed by I. M. Pei is lined with begonias, marigolds, and columbines.

Featuring an Italian marble sculpture of the seafaring Genoan, Christopher Columbus Park is among the North End’s best-kept secrets. Vine-encrusted arches, manicured gardens, and sweeping harbor and skyline views make this a place to linger.

Ciao Bella is a favorite stop for star athletes, who come for the hearty portions of no-frills Italian cuisine and the sizzling alfresco scene.