Somewhere beyond the bay

Before winter arrives, everyone should head into Boston to enjoy the fall weather. However, at this stressful time of the semester, you may wish to head farther into town than Boston—maybe even across the ocean. Since midterms are still underway, making such impromptu trans-Atlantic travel difficult, you can always just head to the Boston Harbor Islands.   

The Boston Harbor Islands are a National Recreation Area composed of 34 islands and peninsulas with a variety of fun and educational sites to visit and activities to participate in.

If you are an outdoorsy person, the islands will be perfect for you. A variety of outdoor activities are available, such as hiking, kayaking, swimming, camping and picnicking. Even though the weather may be a little cold now to appreciate all of these activities, there is still plenty to do while relishing the beauty of a New England fall. 

Those more interested in history than physical recreation should visit Fort Warren on Georges Island. This National Historic Landmark was an important site in the Civil War, serving as a training camp for Union troops, and as a depot for Confederate prisoners. Right now, they are also commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War with a special event each year from 2011 to 2015 to commemorate each of the five years of the Civil War. Fort Warren is also a beautiful place to see views of the other islands and the lighthouses. 

A special event coming up is the Veterans Day Cruise, on Sunday, Nov. 11, which leaves Long Wharf pier at 11 a.m. and returns at 2 p.m.  This cruise will highlight the military history of Boston Harbor from the Revolutionary War to the present day, and also includes a tour of Fort Warren. The cruise is only $5, but it is recommended that you reserve tickets ahead of time, by calling (617) 770- 0040.

Don’t forget to return to the Harbor Islands this summer, when you can take a guided tour of the historic lighthouses—Boston Light, Long Island Light and The Graves Light—and even climb to the top of Boston Light. 

To get to the Boston Harbor Islands by public transit, you can take the ferry from Long Wharf-North in Boston, which isn’t a far walk from the Aquarium Station T stop.  The ferry, which costs $15, can take you directly to Georges or Spectacle Island. Then, if you want to go to other islands, you can transfer to another ferry from Georges. Taking the ferry also allows you to take in a scenic view of the Boston skyline that you can’t get from anywhere else in the city!

Before the weather gets too cold and traps us inside for the winter, go out into the city and delight in the fresh air. And if you decide to go a little farther than the city, you can turn to the Boston Harbor Islands as a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and the beauty of fall.