The home in Boston imbued with the most history is the Paul Revere House. A visit to his home brings the legendary revolutionary to life.

On Beacon Hill, you'll find houses that are as interesting for their architecture as for their occupants. The south slope, facing Boston Common, has been a fashionable address since the 1620s; excellent tours of two houses (one on the north slope) focus on the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The architect of the homes was Charles Bulfinch; he also designed the State House, which sits at the hill's summit.

The Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities (SPNEA) owns and operates the Otis House and dozens of other historic properties throughout New England. The results of its restoration techniques can be seen at museums all over the region. Contact the society, 141 Cambridge St., Boston, MA 02114 (tel. 617/227-3956; www.spnea.org), for brochures, visiting hours, and admission fees.