Make Way...For A Day In Boston

It's not often that I find myself on the East Coast, but what a treat it was to venture through Boston for the day. It had been over a decade since my last visit - and I didn't really feel that I had a true "Boston" experience the last time. Since I had this extra time in between travels, I took advantage and ventured through the area.

One thing about me: I love being in motion.

I was excited to take the Amtrak from Trenton, NJ to Boston, MA. Although it was an early, long ride, I enjoyed every moment of it. I was up early, making my way to the station before the sun came up. I caught the 6:27am Northeast Regional to South Station, and I was lucky enough to snag a table near the cafe car! The Wifi was strong, and the views from my window were gorgeous. I couldn't have asked for a better office that morning. There's something special about the hustle and bustle of the morning commute that really motivates you to join the scene. With a coffee and a bagel, I made way to my destination.

We pulled into the station a little after Noon, and I caught a ride to my hotel to off-load my luggage. I had booked a night at the Hyatt Harbor Regency Hotel (right next to Logan International Airport) with a beautiful view of the city's skyline. Just after checking in, I watched as the ferry pulled up to the dock, and I ran out of the room in a hurry to catch my ride "across the pond".

The ferry cost me $9.50 (One-Way), which was much cheaper than an Uber, probably quicker, and definitely more exciting. In no time, I was stepping off the ferry onto Long's Wharf and strolling the streets of Little Italy. 

Thanks to the suggestions of fellow Bart Bridgers, I had a bucket-list for my 24 hours in Boston! My first stop was Mike's Pastry! I couldn't pass through this part of town without snatching up a fresh cannoli, and this spot was famous for them! The smell of fresh pastries was so powerful, I ended up with a box full, all to myself. (If you're headed there, this is a cash only establishment, and you'll want to be prepared for more than one! I also recommend dinning at one of the many restaurants nearby before filling up on treats! I had to walk this off before I could indulge in more of Boston's great dishes!)

Don't worry, I got my clam chowder after rounding the block. I passed by a building that brought back memories of my last visit. I had stopped here for a beer with a friend of mine when the Boston Bruins were playing in the Stanley Cup! The town had gotten so rowdy, it was hard to tell what street you were on - but thankfully this building stands out from the rest! Matching it's shape, this pub is called "The Point", and this time I treated myself to an Irish coffee and a bowl of clam chowder, while I reminisced over my last visit.

Refueled and warmed up, I headed back out into the streets. It was November, and the city was putting in work to decorate for the holiday season. Lights and Trees were being constructed as I wandered through Faneuil Hall. A violinist filled the chilly air which familiar tunes for shoppers and walkers to enjoy. 

I crossed Congress Street to do the touristy thing, and take a photo with the Boston sign - because let's be honest, I needed photo proof of my visit. 

The walkability of Boston was remarkable. To be able to explore the area by foot is so enjoyable. It gives you the chance to pop in and out of the local stores, and to see what's around every corner! I even took a quick detour to visit "the most photographed street" in Boston : Acorn Street. While it was cute - it wasn't anything work visiting in my book. A narrow road of cobblestone, at the time covered in Fall leafs, makes for a nice photo - but I had taken a lot of those by now. I would find warmth in the book stores and neighborhood markets along Beacon Street, while admiring all the activities going on at the Boston Commons park. My next destination was the Public Gardens - where I was in search for the Make Way for Ducklings statue! It was easy to find, thanks to tools like Google Maps, it's truly hard to get lost anymore! 

The statue itself was made by Nancy Shon in 1987, representing the ducks from the book "Make Way for Ducklings" written by Robert McCloskey. It's an adorable read about a family of Mallards who raise their little ones in the Boston Public Gardens.  There's also a replica of the statue in Moscow that was presented as a gift to the children of the Soviet Union. I don't know that I'll make it to see that one - but it's fun to know!

The Boston Public Gardens is also known for the Robin Williams bench, featured in a popular scene in the movie "Good Will Hunting", you can watch the scene here. I was lucky enough to have the bench all to myself (or so I thought). I got to enjoy a few peaceful moments, looking out at the pond, imagining the camera crews zoomed in on Robin's face as he gave an Oscar-Winning performance speech to the young Matt Damon. I was really zoned in ... I had studied film in college, and sitting on this bench, I let my mind wander about the different angles, and extras, and scenes they must have recorded. Then... CUT! My daydreaming ended abruptly when I shrieked! Literally, I let out a screech, as I was joined by some locals at the park... the squirrels! It didn't take long for them to notice that I was still carrying with me some of Mike's Pastries, and they wanted in on the treats! I laughed out loud to myself as I scrambled away from the bench, and decided to keep moving before the geese caught on as well! 

I took on some more blocks by foot. I couldn't stop before a walk down Newbury Street. With its high-end shopping, boutiques, galleries, cafes, all along the tree-lined and lamp posted streets, it's an absolute must for locals and tourists alike! By the end of the road, I had walked much more than I planned, and Cinderella's carriage was close to turning into a pumpkin.. so I grabbed a uber back to the hotel. 

My day was full, and I was delighted. I topped it off with a local dish of fish and chips while scrolling through the photos I had of this gorgeous Fall day in Boston. I've chosen a few to share below! I hope you enjoy!

If you've got your own stories of Boston - Please share in the comments below. We love hearing about your experiences! You can also help others by leaving recommendations and suggestions for where to visit, and what to do!