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A brick temple to mass transportation, the Neo-Classical Revival South Station was erected in 1898 at the height of rail travel in the US, and was once the country’s busiest train station. Following extensive restoration in 1989, it now serves as an Amtrak terminal for trains from the south and west of the city, as well as a “T” stop and a social and commercial center with a lively food court and occasional lunchtime concerts.

The first section of the five-mile (8-km) Southwest Corridor Park divides South End and Back Bay along the “T” orange line corridor. In the residential South End portion, a path strings together numerous small parks. Between Massachusetts Avenue and West Roxbury, the park broadens to include recreational amenities.

Vastly enlarged by fill from the Big Dig (see 1991–: The Big Dig), Spectacle Island was opened to the public in 2004. It has some of the highest peaks of all the harbor islands as well as 5 miles (8 km) of trails, a marina, picnic areas, swimming beaches, and disabled access as well as the best Boston skyline view. A model for environmental sensitivity, the island’s services run on photovoltaic cells and wind power.

Every winter, dozens of the city’s top chefs convene at Boston’s World Trade Center to create one night of outrageously inventive cuisine. Funds raised support the Spinazzola Foundation, which aids food banks and homeless shelters citywide. The gala runs concurrently with the equally luxe Boston Wine Expo.

French Mediterranean dishes get a heavy dose of California produce and cooking trends. Stylish and chic but only for the big spender.

Ply the harbor waters and enjoy unrivaled city views.

Renowned architect Charles Bulfinch completely redesigned the church’s original 1714 structure in 1802–4. This church is the only surviving example of his religious architecture. The complex Neo-Classical exterior contrasts with the open, airy, and relatively unadorned interior. In 1862, the Roman Catholic archdiocese took over the church to accommodate the area’s growing number of Irish immigrants. Rose Fitzgerald, daughter of Boston mayor John “Honey Fitz” Fitzgerald and mother of President J. F. Kennedy (see John F. Kennedy (1917–1963)), is linked to the church. She was baptized here in 1890, and her funeral took place here in 1995.

Boston’s immense Irish-American population explains why few, if any, American cities can match Boston’s Irish pride. Come St. Paddy’s, pubs host live Irish bands and increasingly raucous crowds. The South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade, with its famous drum corps, is a tradition that starts off from Broadway “T” station.

Enjoying one of the most generous portions of Newbury sidewalk, this American bistro packs the tables for the likes of duck and porcini risotto.