What to See in Boston's Innovation District

Boston has been on the forefront of a lot of things, but one of the most impressive movements in recent memory is late Mayor Thomas Menino's creation of the Innovation District in the Seaport. The first officially labeled innovation district in the United States, it was announced in 2010 that 1,000 acres of space in the then undeveloped Seaport area of the city would become the Innovation District. The move put Boston ahead of its peers across the country and gave businesses and individuals a space to create. Here's what to see in Boston's Innovation District.

TAKE IN THE SCENE AT THE INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART

This sparkling bastion of art, music, and dance has glittered in the Innovation District since it was constructed in 2006. The museum curates regularly changing exhibits and hosts concerts and speakers, but its view makes it one of the most ideal spots for sightseeing in the entire city. From the music hall or the outdoor back terrace, you can see Boston Harbor and the islands that dot the water. The new, seasonal Watershed location, across the harbor in East Boston, offers guests more space to view the ICA's programming.

SEE INNOVATION AT WORK AT DISTRICT HALL

Innovation took on new meaning when this multi-use work space, the first free-standing public innovation building in the world, was opened in 2013. The building has workspaces, classrooms and even an area for holding larger events. Stop by Gather at District Hall, a full-service restaurant, and fuel up on dishes like Cobb Salad, duck tacos and clam chowder, of course!

SIP A BREW AT HARPOON BREWERY

Take a tour of the Harpoon Brewery on the waterfront and raise a toast with the locally made beer at the end. Stay after the tour and enjoy more brews from Harpoon as well as handmade soft pretzels in the beer hall.

TAKE A HIKE!

Hit the pavement of the Boston Harborwalk to see the Innovation District—and the city—in a new light. The linear park is actual 43 miles long, but you'll see plenty just staying in the Seaport. Take in the view and stop to eat and drink; the Seaport's food city has become legendary with restaurants like Committee, LoLa 42 and David Chang's forthcoming Fuku.