Boston: Shopping, Dining and Entertainment

A visit to Boston would not be complete without stopping by sophisticated Newbury Street. Like Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California, this is where you’ll find high-end shops galore. As well as being one of the best shopping districts in the city, it’s also fit for foodies. This neighborhood offers an array of restaurants and eateries, with many outdoor patios open during the summer months,. It is a  great spot for people-watching!

After the delights of Newbury Street, I took my time and meandered through my favorite parts of the city, including beautiful Boston Common and the Public Garden, Charles Street and Beacon Hill.  This is where historic meets high-society living. Known for its brick-row townhouses, narrow cobblestone streets and gas street lamps, this is a place to take your time to discover.  Be sure to browse the independent and antique shops, or relax over a cup of tea at one of the numerous cafes.

I then headed up 50 floors to the Skywalk Observatory in the Prudential Center. The weather was on my side and I could see nearly 160 kilometers in all directions. The views over Boston are overwhelming. Be sure to allow at least an hour and a half to circle the floor, listen to the audio tour and watch the short movie. I looked down and saw Fenway Park, the oldest professional baseball park in America; the gold-domed Massachusetts State House; the Christian Science Mother Church; Old North Church; and the Emerald Green Necklace, a chain of nine green parks strung together by trails and waterways.

After you’ve worked up a thirst, a great place to end your day is the Seaport District, a burgeoning neighborhood offering refined restaurants, breweries and world-class hotels. For you night owls, check out the numerous bars and pubs, where you can hear some great music and dance the night away. 

Or, if you fancy heading down memory lane, like me, head back to Beacon Hill and stop by the original inspiration for “Cheers” the US television show, “Where everybody knows your name.”  Formerly The Bull and Finch, the exterior of this bar can be seen at the opening of every show. Perhaps a little tacky-tourist, you might think, but I loved it! The atmosphere was buzzing, and they serve a delightfully delicious cheeseburger.

One last thing: Be sure to pack your trainers or walking shoes when heading to this amazing metropolis. Although there are multiple options for navigating the city – cycling, trolley car or public transport – in my opinion, the best way to experience this destination is on foot. This is a manageable city for everyone. Parking can often be difficult to find in Boston, and cost-prohibitive if you use public garages, so leave the rental car at your hotel. Better yet, don’t get one at all.

There you have it. If you’re looking for fantastic food, fun and shopping, you’ll love Boston.