Boston, this metropolis of almost six million offers something for everyone, from bohemians to Brahmins. The following is an easy guide for a weekend stay in Beantown.
If you want to catch a Red Sox game or do some upscale shopping, then stay at Hotel Commonwealth (Tel. 866-784-4000) in the very hip Kenmore Square. This AAA Four Diamond hotel provides 150 luxurious guestrooms, complete with Frette linens, extra-large writing desks, wireless phones, and L’occitance amenities. The staff provides outstanding service to sports fans and shopaholics alike.
Another AAA Four Diamond hotel is the Wyndham Boston (Tel. 617-556-0006) in the downtown area. This 362-room hotel resides in a building that was built in 1928 as Boston’s first skyscraper. Guests enjoy 12-foot ceilings, ergonomic chairs and huge windows that actually open. Don’t hesitate to ask the friendly staff for directions to the Waterfront.
If you are in the mood for lobster, then definitely stop by Union Oyster House, America’s oldest restaurant. Since 1826, this historic restaurant has been serving other traditional New England specialties such as clam chowder and Boston baked beans.
Great Bay inside Hotel Commomwealth, has to-die-for seafood. Treat yourself and your companion to line caught cod and homemade butterscotch pudding.
Try the seared salmon over saffron chickpeas with pinenut gremolata at Umbria, which is located in the financial district. This ristorante, ultra lounge and nightclub is perfect for lounging on Italian leather couches and catching up on the latest 411.
Grab a quick bite to eat at the authentic replica of the Cheers set at Quincy Market/Faneuil Hall Marketplace, but beware, it is a tourist trap.
What to Do: Take a trip back in history by walking the Freedom Trail. You will learn about people, places and events that shaped Beantown.
The Black Heritage Trail, located in exclusive Beacon Hill, gives you a glimpse of what life was like for black Bostonians during the 19th century.
Purchase a CityPass for $39 (adult price), which will allow you entrance into six worthwhile attractions: Harvard Museum of Natural History, JFK Presidential Library and Museum, Skywalk Observatory, Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Science, and New England Aquarium.
Participate in recreational activities, take a cruise or sleep on the beach at Boston Harbor Islands National Park.
Boston has several high-end shopping establishments. Copley Place is home to several high- end stores, including Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.
Buy the latest must-have handbag at Saks Fifth Avenue, which is anchored at the Shops at Prudential Center.
Visit fashionable boutiques and quirky shops within an eight-block stretch on Newbury Street, Boston’s “Rodeo Drive,” in the Back Bay.
It is easy to get around Boston. A taxi ride from Logan International Airport to downtown will run you around twenty-five dollars. Taking a shuttle, such as JC Transportation (Tel. 800-517-2281), will set you back about half as much.
The easiest way to tour the city is to catch an authentic, renovated World War II amphibious landing vehicle on the Boston Duck Tour. Get your tickets early for this land and water tour because they sell out quickly.
At a low fare of $1.25, you can catch the subway, also known as the “T.” If you decide to stay at Hotel Commonwealth, then you will only be steps away from a subway stop.
The best alternative is to catch a good pair of sneakers because Boston is a great walking town.