I could hardly contain my excitement on one of my visits to the Boston Public Library. An ongoing exhibit of maps at the Norman B. Leventhal Map Center, housed in one of the library buildings had caught my attention.
Everything about maps fascinates me. In middle school, my atlas was one of my prized possessions. The exhibit that I was visiting was nothing like I had imagined maps to be. It was a showcase of fictional maps. From Peter Pan to Narnia, maps from some of the richest works of fiction were depicted on giant sheets of paper. To me, these pieces were similar to works of art.
Each season, the center organizes exhibits based on different themes, each one engrossing enough for any map lover. The center is not a large one, but has an extensive and interesting collection. A room in one corner of the center serves as a map library with desks, computers and shelves full of books related to geography and maps. On days when the weather restricts outdoor adventures, what's not to love about flights of fantasy with illustrated representations of our world?
Find your way with 128 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Rose Kennedy Greenway" in Boston was a work in progress for many years. Now it's dotted with sculptures, fountains, food trucks... a true destination!
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"Charles River Dam" in Boston, with the Musical Locks, is a great place to cross on my bike the water that separates Boston and Cambridge...
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"Sound Bites" in Boston has a reputation. I also have a personal, touching story that has made me really like this breakfast cafe. I'll share it with you.
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"Hilton's Tent City" is where the Boston outdoorsmen of yore picked up their stuff before Goretex and GPS. I like that they have modern and classic brands.
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"Flat Black" in Boston makes Australian-style espresso. These guys roast their own beans in Dorchester and make the best carving designs into the milk!
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"Brooklyn Boulders" is a solid addition to the climbing scene in Boston. Of course the choice to set up show in this specific street is deliberate & edgy.
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"Puritan & Company" in Boston is a brunch spot when the day calls for luxury. The reason I go to this cafe is to indulge on their pastry basket...
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"Taza Chocolate" Boston - a chocolate factory, but I'll resist the urge to make a Willy Wonka reference. In this shop they make it in the Mexican tradition
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"Artisan's Asylum" in Boston is a former warehouse that has been taken over by a collective of engineers and craftspeople. I just think they're crazy good!
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"Clear Flour Bakery" in Boston has the best chocolate croissant in the city. Believe me, this isn't just some idle praise... Also check out the caneles!
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"China Fair" is my first stop in Boston when I need everyday tools, like cocktail spoons! Here, cooking is work, and they sell you tools for cheap.
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128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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