The New England Economic Adventure is the Boston Fed’s flagship economic education program. With both a “physical” side (a multi-part, interactive experience for groups of on-site visitors) and a “virtual” side (this companion web site featuring illustrated narratives, an animated game, and a multitude of resources), the Adventure seeks to help the public understand economic growth and other important related concepts. Both sides of the Adventure program are free and may be used independently, although each complements and adds value to the other.

President's Message

Since the Adventure first opened in 2003, thousands of visitors have experienced its mix of interactive exhibits and activities. In the process, they had an opportunity to learn about important concepts in an engaging way—specifically how increased productivity, expanded trade, and economic growth have over time helped boost the standard of living of most New Englanders.

The New England Economic Adventure does not present economics in the abstract or as a stand-alone. Rather, it highlights the real-world interaction of many factors that affect economic growth and prosperity—including innovation, entrepreneurship, investment, infrastructure, education, and public health.

The Adventure’s main theme—the relationship between productivity and standard of living—has not changed since we opened, but technology has. So in 2010 we undertook a redesign to make the educational experience even more engaging and effective. New exhibits, content, and learning activities build on feedback we have received from students and teachers over the years.

The Adventure now underscores the economic importance of institutions such as universities, medical facilities, and cultural organizations in our region. It highlights the economic contributions of enterprising New Englanders from many backgrounds. It interactively examines “standard of living” from various perspectives and explores what it means to “live well.” And it encourages visitors to reflect on New England’s economic future and their own.

We welcome visitors to the Adventure and hope your visit will help you understand and use economics every day.



Eric Rosengren
President and CEO
Federal Reserve Bank of Boston

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