In case you have missed any of the posts I wrote this year about Boston’s Hidden Gems, here’s a roundup of all twelve.

RG’s third floor with elevator and gilded ceiling

The hidden gems are largely unknown places in the city of Boston that ordinary folks can visit. Some are outside and some are inside and some bring the outdoors in. Most are free while a few have admission charges. Visiting them may require a little advance planning.

These places are little jewels that even many residents don’t know about but all are definitely worth a visit. If you’re in the Back Bay, it would be easy to put #2, #3, #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #11 and #12 together for an afternoon’s walking expedition. If The Mapparium is too far from the rest of the stops for you, start with the Boston Public Library Courtyard.

You’ll have a wonderful holiday afternoon that will beat shopping, dealing with crowds, standing in line and spending too much money. Take some time to relax and enjoy the city. Say hello to the Bacchante with Infant Faun by Fredierick William MacMonnies and the Angel of the Waters by Daniel Chester French. See the bronze Salada Tea Doors and the St. Francis Garden. You’ll remember the afternoon long after you have forgotten the shopping list.

Boston’s Hidden Gems Series:

1. Tenshin-en
2. The Mapparium
3. Boston Public Library Courtyard
4. The Ether Dome
5. The Tiffany Sanctuary
6. The Salada Tea Doors
7. Museum Restoration
8. St. Francis Garden
9. History Dioramas
10. Exchange Staircase
11. Pru Garden
12. Angel of the Waters

The Back Bay’s Hidden Gems