I know many reviewers said this is a tourist trap,...

I know many reviewers said this is a tourist trap, but so is times square. but that's the point - a place you have to see when visiting a new city. I am from south of boston, but I always visit faneuil hall/quincy marketplace when in town. It is the heart of the city - perfect for people watching and grabbing a bite. You can get all sorts of food (pizza, ice cream, nicer sit-down outside)... and then you can roam through the various stores. At night, the lights are pretty. From here, you can either wak east towards the north end and aquarium, northwest toward the old church and boston common. It is what it is - a tourist stop!