See the Sites of Boston Without Breaking the Bank

An easy and inexpensive way to see some of Boston's highlighted attractions is with the Boston CityPASS. This pass provides one admission to five attractions including the New England Aquarium; Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; Museum of Science, Skywalk Observatory, and a choice between the Harvard Museum of Natural History or the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.

The first must-see stop to get one's bearings is the Skywalk Observatory located at the Prudential Center at the Prudential Center located at 800 Boylston Street. Sometimes the 360-degree view may not be available due to weather, private functions and business needs. So call (617) 859-0648 beforehand to ensure the deck is open when plan on visiting.

History buffs and Kennedy aficionados can then head down to the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum. From May to October, President Kennedy's 26-foot sailboat Victura docks outside the museum. This museum is set up as a tribute to the late President, so those looking for a historical overview of the Kennedy assassinations, romances and other tabloid tales will need to look elsewhere. The view of the Boston Harbor can be breathtaking on a clear day. Most children will probably prefer to go to the Harvard Museum of Natural History.

Afterward, go up to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston to check out their guided tours, talks, films, lectures and other activities. Older children can enjoy this museum though younger ones will probably bore easily.

Those with children looking for some family friendly fun might want to spend an afternoon at the New England Aquarium. The daily schedules list the animal feeding times, presentations, IMAX movie times and other must see exhibits and other presentations. CityPASS holders can obtain discounts for the IMAX movies, as well as obtaining discounts for the Whale Watch Cruises that are available from April-October. Adults interested in marine life will find portions of the Aquarium of interest though the site is really designed for interactive kid play.

Over in Cambridge, one can find the Museum of Science, a kid friendly museum that offers a number of live demos, the majority of which are free to CityPASS holders. IMAX shows can be purchased at a discount for CityPASS holders. The Planetarium is closed though early 2011 for renovations While in Cambridge, one can also stop by the Harvard Museum of Natural History assuming one didn't already go to the JFK Museum.

A Boston CityPASS costs $46 for adults and $29 for children and can be purchased online or at any of the above mentioned attractions.