In Two Days

After following the "In One Day" tour, it's time to explore beyond downtown and investigate subjects other than history. The Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and other attractions contrast invitingly with the colonial extravaganza of the Freedom Trail. This itinerary may require some flexibility, because you probably won't have much control over when your Duck Tour starts. Aim for tickets on a tour that starts in the afternoon, when the scene on the river is liveliest, with rowers chugging around and sailboats skimming past. If your tour falls in the morning, the rest of this itinerary easily adjusts to accommodate it. Start: Museum of Fine Arts (Green Line E to Museum or Orange Line to Ruggles).

1. Museum of Fine Arts

Be at the museum when the doors open at 10am. The MFA can easily -- and most enjoyably -- take up a full day, but it doesn't have to. Check out the website to get some sense of what you want to see. If you prefer not to explore on your own, take the first guided tour of the day, which begins at 10:30am. The museum has a cafeteria, cafe, and restaurant, but I'd suggest saving your appetite for the next stop.

2. Take a Break -- Shops at Prudential Center

One of my favorite branches of Legal Sea Foods is here, on the main level off Boylston Street. If you prefer something lighter, the food court is nearby. Or walk 5 minutes to the Back Bay branch of Jasper White's Summer Shack.

3 Boston Duck Tour

This is the most entertaining motorized way to see the city. On a reconditioned World War II amphibious landing vehicle, you see the top attractions, pick up some historical background, and head for the water. Then, thrillingly, the Duck plunges into the Charles River and cruises around the basin.

Duck Tours don't operate from December through March (unless they're needed for a Patriots Super Bowl victory parade, which has happened more often than not lately). An excellent alternative is a Boston Symphony Orchestra or Boston Pops concert at Symphony Hall, a short walk from either the MFA or the Prudential Center (the Pru).

4. Newbury Street

The commercial heart of the Back Bay, Newbury Street offers the best shopping in New England. Familiar chains and one-of-a-kind boutiques and galleries make it a can't-miss destination for serious consumerism or just window-shopping. It's also architecturally fascinating.

5 Public Garden

At the east end of Newbury Street is the most beautiful park in Boston. The Public Garden is lovely year-round -- a visit will brighten up even the grayest off-season day -- and the Make Way for Ducklings sculptures are always delightful. In warm weather, leave time for a Swan Boat ride.

6. Take a Break -- Afternoon Tea

All that walking makes a perfect excuse for a hearty meal of pastries, finger sandwiches, and, of course, tea. My favorite afternoon tea is at the Bristol, off the lobby of the Four Seasons. The Lounge at the Taj Boston and Café Fleuri in the Langham Hotel Boston also put on a good show.

7. Beacon Hill

The most picturesque neighborhood in town is a festival of red brick, cobblestones, and gorgeous architectural details. Charles Street, the main thoroughfare, is a lively shopping destination with refreshingly few chain stores. Wander on your own or seek out a guide -- on summer weekdays, a Boston By Foot tour starts at 5:30pm.