Whether you’re from the area or not, as you look at your schedule for the week, you may be wondering the best ways to take advantage of any downtime you might have during the 2012 BIO International Convention. Here are my Top 5 ways to enjoy the city.

1. Catch a Red Sox game

Fenway Park, the oldest Major League Baseball stadium, turned 100 this year! Find tickets online or even outside the park the night of the game. Fenway Park is a historic site in itself and home to Fenway Frank hotdogs that are worth the indulgence: it’s all part of the experience!

2. Exercise & take in the Scenery

If you’re looking for a place to jog or go for a long walk, check out Boston’s Harbor Walk, which offers a safe and beautiful walk along the water, or the Castle Island area. If you’re willing to go a little farther from the Innovation District, explore the Esplanade along the Charles River.

3. Learn about Boston history & art

Don’t miss the Freedom Trail, one of America’s first historic walking tours. The route is 2.5 miles and you can go on a guided tour, or simply head to the Freedom Trail Information Booth at the Boston Common at Tremont Street and pick up a map and brochure and then follow the red-brick line to explore the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, the Bunker Hill Monument, the USS Constitution and more.

Boston is home to a number of fantastic art museums, and one is just steps away from the Convention Center! Check out the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), which is spectacular inside and out!

4. Eat

SEAFOOD: Boston is known for great seafood and while you can probablyfind “lobstah” and “chowdah” at a number of restaurants, my top seafood picks are Legal Sea Foods, which just opened a beautiful harbor-side location in the Innovation District, and the classic Union Oyster House, a Kennedy Family favorite that’s been around since 1826.

ITALIAN: Salvatore’s is one of my favorites and it’s conveniently located near the Convention Center. Or enjoy some Boston sports cred at Jerry Remy’s Sports Bar right on the waterfront.

STEAKHOUSE:  Morton’s & Del Frisco’s are both delicious and both in the Innovation District.

5. Drink

Looking to grab a cocktail or beer? In the Innovation District, swing by the Atlantic Beer Garden or The Whiskey Priest and take advantage of their roof decks. Another great outdoor option is Tia’s at the waterfront, located toward the North End.

If you’re looking for something a little different, swing by the Harpoon Brewery (right down the street from the Convention Center) for a beer tasting.

Want some more ideas? Check out “Discover My Boston,” brought to you by the employees of Biogen Idec, or visit us in Lifecycle Massachusetts: The Massachusetts Pavilion (Booth #0137 in the Exhibit Hall)!

We hope to see you tomorrow!