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Article and photo
by Eric H.
The sweeping 360 degree views
from the Prudential Building's 50th floor Skywalk Observatory
provide an amazing experience as the mammoth City of Boston suddenly
looks very small from way up above -- sort of like a toy village
with horrible traffic.
All of Boston and beyond are
available for prime time viewing, including Boston Harbor, the
Charles River, Fenway Park, the even taller-than-the-Prudential-Building
Hancock Tower and suburban views like the Blue Hills in Canton, Mass. It's
a total shock for those who thought they had a great view from
their third-floor walk-up attic, or mountain hikers who climb
three hours to end up viewing lots of trees.
For locals, the imagination runs
wild. Is that Peabody in the distance? Are those cars to the
north headed to Kelly's Roast Beef? Is that Abington behind the
Blue Hills? Might I be able to view a Boston Red Sox game for
free from this very location (the answer is "no.")?
For visitors, the Observatory
is a great introduction to Boston, showing the neighborhoods
that make Boston one of the most diverse places in the world.
It's hard to know where to begin, from the lovely church architecture
and charming brownstone neighborhoods to the shiny modern buildings.
To help visitors make sense out
of it all, a personal audio system elucidates on Boston's historic
and cultural points of interests at designated sections of the
Skywalk. The audio seems to detract from just viewing the city
for smaller children and very immature adults, but most visitors
will find it invaluable as it summarizes Boston's highlights
quite well. There is also the Dreams of Freedom Immigration Museum
exhibits, the Ted Williams Museum Exhibit, a new theater, and
gift shop. One floor above is the much-improved Top of the Hub
Restaurant. Formerly a mediocre tourist trap, the Top of the
Hub eventually transformed itself into a plush, classy New American
cuisine establishment. Clever variations of steak, seafood and
chicken dishes make the Top of the Hub more than just a place
with more spectacular views -- recommended for all except those
with acrophobia.
The Prudential Building Skylight
Observatory is a must-do when vacationing in, or visiting Boston,
bringing the overall city experience to "new heights."
The Prudential Building Skywalk Observatory
800 Boylston Street, Boston,
Mass. Tel. 617-859-0648
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