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Corralled by bustling, commercial Tremont Street, stately Beacon Street, and genteel Charles Street, Boston Common lies at the confluence of three disparate worlds. Whatever the season, a stroll through the common yields a veritable cross section of the city’s residents. (see Boston Common & Public Garden).

The first hot day of summer sparks a massive northbound migration via the MBTA blue line to the popular Revere Beach (see Revere Beach). Salsa music blares from passing cars on Ocean Avenue, soccer players stake out their pitches, and sun worshippers jostle for space at the shore break.

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)

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

Taking in all 6 miles (9.5 km) of the Emerald Necklace (see Boston Common & Public Garden) is best accomplished on a bicycle. The well-maintained trails lead riders from the wooded environs of Arnold Arboretum (see Arnold Arboretum) to the Back Bay Fens (see Back Bay Fens) and onward to the Public Garden (see Back Bay).

Dawn on the Charles River Basin sees local rowing crews taking advantage of the water’s glass-smooth stillness. By late morning, a breeze kicks up, beckoning fleets of small sailboats. When the wind diminishes toward sunset, canoeists arrive to enjoy the water’s renewed calm.

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.

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.

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.

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.