From the historic to the hilarious, unique projects are under way in the Massachusetts capital. The Old State House, the oldest surviving public building in Boston, will begin a renovation this year to commemorate its 300th anniversary. Groups must make advance reservations to visit the museum, but the colonial-era building that has long been a community meeting place can be rented for cocktail parties, lectures and business events. Proceeds go toward historical restoration and education programs.
The recently opened Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum in Boston Harbor is home to two replica ships, reenactment rooms and one of the only remaining chests from the Boston Tea Party in 1773.
Museum venues, including Abigail’s Tea Room and Griffin’s Wharf, can accommodate up to 200 guests for standing receptions, and the experience includes costumed actors. Another replica ship will be added by 2015.
Laugh Boston, is slated to open this spring across from the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. The 300-seat theater will bring in local and national stand-up comedy acts.
The New England Aquarium launched a $17 million renovation last year, which began with an update to the Giant Ocean Tank coral reef exhibit. Home to more than 1,500 animals, the exhibit has been redesigned and a new education center added. The aquarium offers discounted bulk tickets for corporate groups and spaces are available for private functions, including the large shark and sting ray touch tank.