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Summer Of Savings: Boston Harbor Islands

BOSTON (CBS) – We are in the thick of summer vacations. But you don't have to go far if you are looking to get away.

If you dream of island hopping you can do it without ever leaving Boston Harbor!

Boston Harbor is home to 34 different islands, eight of which you can reach by ferry.

From boating to beaches to hiking and camping, all of the Boston Harbor Islands have something to offer.

GEORGES ISLAND

Originally meant to protect Boston Harbor, it took nearly 30 years to complete so it was instead turned into a prison for confederate soldiers.

Now the fort is a place where you can get "hands on" with history.

The legend of one of its visitors, a woman trying to rescue her imprisoned husband, continues today with the story of the lady in black - a ghost said to haunt the island.

Georges island isn't just for history buffs.

You can walk around the 32 acres, even picnic with picture perfect views of the harbor and surrounding islands.

There's a host of free activities for families.

Thursdays - Kids get creative with arts and crafts.
Fridays - Playdates with music.
Saturdays - Berklee students hold concerts.

It's all free once you get to the island.

An adult ferry ticket is $17 while kids under three are free.

Kids under three are free.

Mark your calendars! Everyone can get a free ferry ride on August 25 to celebrate the National Park Service's 100th birthday.

BREATHTAKING VIEWS FROM BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS

The view is breathtaking with the City of Boston glistening from the spectacular shores of Spectacle Island.

But this wasn't always the case.

Once a burning toxic waste site leaking into the harbor, Spectacle Island is now completely transformed thanks to the Big Dig.

The earth moved to create the tunnels was brought here, giving the island a new life.

Tens of thousands of people will visit this year and take advantage of the lifeguarded beaches, five miles of hiking trails and views!

It doesn't end there - each week there's a busy schedule of free programs including concerts, yoga, family tours and playdates for little kids.

You can spend even more time with nature by hopping a second free ferry and connecting to Peddocks Island.

It's split into three communities, each with their very own personality.

A turn of the century fort, a bird watcher's paradise, and a unique camping destination without any of the hassle, thanks to the yurts.

Yurts are tents that sleep up to six with modern day conveniences.

Peddocks also has a series of free programs each week from teaching kids to fish to building forts, and sea life tours - a little something for everyone in the family.

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