I was 17 and it was Super Bowl Sunday. Shy, and sitting there at a party where I didn’t know many people, I directed my attention to the big screen. Back in the day, we didn’t have cell phones for anything but calling or texting people so, what else was there to do? I had always liked football in general, but then. . . he appeared. Mr. Tom Brady flashed across the screen, and I was in LOVE, hahaha! Ever since, it has been by dream to go to Foxborough and watch a game at Gillette Stadium. Fourteen years later I can check this item off my bucket list. Of course, we weren’t going to just see Foxborough, I wanted to explore Boston while I was there! I can truly say, visiting Boston has been one of my favorite trips ever! There was so much to eat, see, and do, I could write a novel detailing all of it, but instead I’ll just give you my favorites for now. Here are my “Top 5’s” of my maiden voyage to Boston!
Favorite Restaurant: Ye Olde Union Oyster House
We had amazing Italian food in the North End, sampled the fair at Faneuil Hall, and tried out a few street vendors, however the was nothing quite like the experience of eating at Ye Olde Union Oyster House. It is the oldest restaurant in the country, with everyone from former U.S. presidents to famous Hollywood stars to Tom Brady himself stepping through the doors and dining on seafood. My favorite food is anything from the sea, so I was a happy girl. But in addition to cracking into a New England lobster, I got to try real Boston Baked Beans, and New England clam chowder. The place is cozy, the décor worn and charming. There is even a booth named for the Kennedy’s, where JFK preferred to sit when he dined there! Make a reservation, because they were packed! If you’re in Boston don’t miss this spot!
Favorite Bar: The Black Rose
Of course you must set foot in the Bell in Hand tavern, the oldest bar in the country where it is said that the Boston Tea Party was planned. But of the many places we lapped up libations, the most jolly experience was The Black Rose: a two story tavern near Faneuil Hall, again full to the brim with patrons, drunkenly singing and dancing to the band whole played everything from old Irish songs to Bruce Springsteen. Fun, fun, fun! Cold drinks, great music, and the best people-watching. I wish every bar was this lively! Unfortunately I have very few pics from this night for obvious reasons!
Favorite Dessert
Hands down: Mike’s Pastry in the North End. Famous for their heavenly cannoli, Mike’s has been around for decades and was highly recommended to us by several friends. If you’re not a cannoli fan, do not fret, because they also offer an impressive spread of massive cheesecakes, cupcakes, whoopie pies. . . my mouth is watering just thinking about it. And everything is so inexpensive! $4 for a massive piece of chocolate cake?! Sign me up!
Favorite Tourist Attraction
The Duck Boat Tour was top notch. It’s an 80 minute tour aboard a duck boat (half boat, half motor vehicle used by military) that takes you through Boston’s most famous neighborhoods and splaches into the Charles River, as a very animated narrator gives you all kinds of historical fun facts about the city. I suggest doing this early on in your visit, because it really helps you choose and plan your sightseeing for the rest of your trip. About $42 per person, and well worth it!
Favorite Excursion: Salem, Mass.
The city of Salem goes all-out in October, using their dark past to create a positive experience in the present. If you don’t know, Salem is where the North American witch trials took place in 1692. Basically, a bunch of bored Puritan girls created hysteria, accusing townspeople of witchcraft, which eventually led to the execution of 20 people. Today, they have several museums throughout the town telling the story year-round, however October in Salem seems to be the time to visit. The entire town participates and embraces being “Witch City”, selling witch-themed items of every kind. Walking around through crowds full of locals and visitors dressed as witches, you can stop in magic-shops, have a tarot card reading, and sample Boston’s famous cider donuts, just name a few fun things. Everything is decorated and completely picturesque. Don’t forget to stop by the famous Bewitched statue and get a picture with Samantha, America’s favorite witch, at some point!
I’ve been back home for a few days now, but I still can’t get over what an awesome experience visiting New England was. Great food, great sites, and really great people! There was still so much to left to do after 4 full days of exploring! If you’re planning a trip there, and need a travel buddy, I’m your girl! Thank you Boston for the fabulous time!
The Practical Priss 