Boston Calling

For locals, the start of spring in Boston is usually marked by opening day at Fenway Park and the Boston Marathon in April, no matter what the calendar says. But as soon as it’s warm enough to shed heavy coats and snow boots, the city comes alive with people enjoying the many great outdoor spaces and open-air spring happenings.

Boston Harbor Islands

Located a short ferry ride from the waterfront, the Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park shouldn’t be missed, with a host of activities ranging from exploring historic forts to enjoying live music. The main islands with the most to see and do are Georges and Spectacle. Georges is home to the Civil War-era Fort Warren, and Spectacle Island offers 2.5 miles of trails and the highest viewing point of any of the islands. Ferries start running in mid-May.

Kayaking the Charles

A great way to get a new perspective of Boston and Cambridge is to dip an oar in the river yourself. Community Boating, located near the Charles Street footbridge on the Esplanade, offers sailboats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for rent. You can set your own pace, meander along the shore and take in the unbeatable views.

Boston Flower & Garden Show

Typically, March is a bit early for flowers to burst into bloom in Boston, but you wouldn’t know it at the Boston Flower & Garden Show, where life-size gardens and colorful floral arrangements offer a ray of spring sunshine. From March 13-17 at the Seaport World Trade Center, visitors can enjoy a variety of displays, competitions, lectures, demos and more. This year’s theme is “The Beauty of Balance,” exploring how to create harmonious green spaces for every type of area and budget.

Rose Kennedy Greenway

Wending 1.5 miles through several waterfront neighborhoods, the greenway is a playground for both adults and kids, with farmers markets, beer gardens, food trucks, live music, temporary exhibits, gardens, splash fountains and more. Don’t miss the quaint New England-themed carousel, where you can ride on a seal, a peregrine falcon, a sea turtle, a lobster or a green grasshopper instead of a horse.

You can’t go to Boston without visiting Cheers and Faneuli Hall Marketplace. Save with AAA. AAA.com/Discounts