You're in luck, Boston is the "Athens of America".. or at least i've heard.

Staying at a hotel near Suffolk Downs or anywhere along the T is highly recommended.

Woburn is near the Commuter Rail, but that doesn't run very frequently. It's more geared towards commuters, hence the name.

If you are along the Blue Line, the Airport and Suffolk downs are there, and the Aquarium station is right at the Boston waterfront and close to Faneuil Hall which is fun to walk around.