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Gorgeous blue waters, rocky outcrops, and a picture-perfect beach town.

Few scenes capture quintessential Boston better than a snow-covered Boston Common (see Boston Common & Public Garden)with figures twirling and sliding on the Frog Pond ice. Rent some skates and partake in the scene, then refuel in the cozy warming hut.

Closed to vehicular traffic on summer Sundays, Cambridge’s twisting, riverside Memorial Drive becomes a blur of rollerbladers, baby strollers, and joggers.

For five or six summer nights, the Tango Society brings a bit of Buenos Aires to the Weeks Foot Bridge (see Weeks Foot Bridge), inviting some 200 couples to summon the passion within and dance the tango from moonrise ’til midnight.

Sunday brunch at the Neighborhood brings throngs intent on securing seating beneath the outdoor grape arbors. Equally coveted are the house’s Portuguese breakfast bread platters.

As soon as their ball club begins spring training, Red Sox fans rekindle the decades-old “Is this the year?” debate. Despite multiple appearances in the World Series, the Sox have not secured a world championship since 1918. Nevertheless, the Fenway Faithful keep their optimism alive until the end of the season. (see Fenway Park)

Even if you’ve had lunch and shopped until your shoe soles are worn out, a trip to Faneuil Hall Marketplace (see Faneuil Hall Marketplace) is worthwhile if only to watch the street performances. Jugglers, magicians, and other acts are surrounded by crowds of onlookers, all rapt with amazement and amusement.

Toward the middle of August and around Thanksgiving, Filene’s Basement (see Filene’s Basement) transforms into a sea of designer wedding gowns, all discounted to unimaginable prices. When the doors open, frenzied brides-to-be race through the aisles clutching $200 dresses by the likes of Vera Wang.

Boston Harbor’s longest beach has clean sand and facilities attracting South Shore families.