Boston Best Attractions 2011

BEST UPSCALE BAR
Drink, Boston
Drink’s commitment to excellence at every level–from the quality of the ice, to the historic authenticity of the bitters, punches, and fizzes, to the minimalist design that hides the booze and puts the barkeep front and center–makes this venue a natural winner. 348 Congress St. 617-695-1806

BEST HISTORY LESSON
Nichols House & Prescott House, Boston
Tony, historic Beacon Hill is home to two little-known house museums that let you step into daily life as it was lived by 19th-century Brahmins. The Nichols House is the former abode of suffragist and landscape gardener Rose Standish Nichols and features European and Asian art and period furniture. The William Hickling Prescott House preserves the domestic high style of its namesake owner, a prominent historian of his time. Nichols House, 55 Mount Vernon St. 617-227-6993; nicholshousemuseum.org. Prescott House, 55 Beacon St. 617-742-3190; nscda.org/ma/prescott_house.php

BEST PINT OF HISTORY
Samuel Adams Brewery Tour, Boston
Start with a lesson on one of America’s Founding Fathers (and early malt suppliers); then take a step-by-step tour of the beer-making process. Wrap it all up with a free sample or two of the award-winning brews in the tasting room. 30 Germania St. 617-368-5080; samueladams.com

BEST ONE-STOP CULTURE FIX
Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston
An architectural gem, this museum has blossomed since its move to the waterfront, producing noteworthy exhibits, all while luring in families and tourists with art-inspired play dates and free concerts at the outdoor amphitheater. 100 Northern Ave. 617-478-3100; icaboston.org

BEST CITY TOURS
Urban Adventours, Boston
Proof that Boston is a bikable city, these varied tours led by experienced cyclists will get you into the action. Routes include the Freedom Trail, the waterfront, the Emerald Necklace, and more. 103 Atlantic Ave. 800-979-3370 (reservations), 617-670-0637 (office); urbanadventours.com