A city tradition since the 19th century, Boston’s Swan Boats operate from April to September in the Boston Public Garden. For less than the price of renting a movie, these paddle-propelled 18-passenger boats will escort you through Boston’s most tranquil area for fifteen minutes. The boats defy categorization; it’s not really a tour and it’s not a ride. It’s just a simple, appealing way to experience Boston in the summertime. Your graceful transport will carry you past weeping willows, beds of tulips, and picnicking parkgoers. Group rates are available for twenty or more passengers, and there is no schedule for arrivals and departures, so on busy summer afternoons you may have to wait in line. But the sound of the water, the feel of the breeze, and the escape from conventional urban transport is entirely worth it. The rides are so short and so pleasant, there’s no excuse to miss out.