Freedom 7 at JFK Library
In 1961, astronaut Alan Shepard piloted Freedom 7 to become the first American in space. The space capsule can now be seen at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. Clamped atop a rocket nearly seven stories high, Freedom 7 was blasted into a 302-mile suborbital flight from Cape Canaveral, Fla., before splashing down in the Atlantic, a journey lasting 15 minutes and 28 seconds. On loan from the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum through 2015, the installation marks the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy's speech at Rice University, where he championed the nation's manned space efforts. Adults $12, age 62 and up and students (with valid ID) $10, 13-17 $9, children 12 and under free. Columbia Point, 617-514-1600, www.jfklibrary.org - NECEE REGIS
- Anne Fitzgerald, Globe Travel Editor
- Paul Makishima, Globe Assistant Sunday Editor
- Eric Wilbur, Boston.com staff
- Kari Bodnarchuk writes about outdoor adventures, offbeat places, and New England.
- Patricia Borns, a frequent contributor to Globe Travel, writes and photographs travel, maritime, and historical narratives as well as blogs and books.
- Patricia Harris, a regular contributor to Globe Travel, is author or co-author of more than 20 books on travel, food, and popular culture.
- Paul E. Kandarian, a frequent contributor to Globe Travel, writes and photographs New England and Caribbean stories.
- Chris Klein is a regular contributor to Globe Travel. His latest book is "The Die-Hard Sports Fan's Guide to Boston."
- David Lyon, a regular contributor to Globe Travel, is author or co-author of more than 20 books on travel, food, and popular culture.
- Hilary Nangle, author of Moon Maine, Moon Coastal Maine, and Moon Acadia National Park, writes about soft adventure, skiing, cultural travel, and food.
- Joe Ray, a frequent contributor to Globe Travel, writes and photographs food and travel stories from Europe.
- Necee Regis is a regular contributor to Globe Travel.