Boston is a city that speaks well above its charm. It’s cobbled streets keep you guessing what’s next, the city goers are the perfect in between of a harsh New Yorker and your every day Chicagoan, and the never ending options of things to do always leaves you curious. Momager Kris (aka Alex) and I wanted to adventure in a new city over the long weekend, and adventure was exactly what we did. I have done the historical sight seeing of Boston but what about the museums and eating spots that are a little trickier to find? You know I love to live like a local in a city that’s not my own, so I’m excited to share bits and pieces of my journey and hope it sparks a sense of curiosity in you to check out Boston too.
First, I was BLOWN AWAY by our stay at the Godfrey Boston. It is central to everything (Boston Public Garden, shopping, Newbury Street, North End, Beacon Hill.. you name it!) and has you covered from breakfast to happy hour to dinner.
Make sure to ask about their Bloody Mary cart next time you’re in town.. they just rolled it out and it’s epic. (so much pun intended)
So you want good food and drinks…
Lolita’s in Back Bay is right on the river and is a sexy little Mexican restaurant that serves amazing food and drinks. Great for late night too- Kris and I met a few Boston locals at the bar (who were in PR nonetheless!) and a few hysterical New Englanders that had us laughing all night long.
Frenchie is ADORABLE and the brunch is yummy too. They have a garden in the backroom with windows from floor to ceiling. TIP: Make sure to make a reservation in advance and request the garden room.
Ruka is connected to the Godfrey Boston hotel and Kris and I didn’t have a dish we didn’t like. Their rolls were amazing and cocktails were decadent and refreshing.
Luke’s Lobster recommendation is given by Momager Kris because I do not eat lobster (this is a judgement free zone people…) but was highly recommended by many and Kris approved. If Kris approves, everyone approves.
So you want to be a little BOUGIE…
Yvonne’s is right in the heart of downtown crossing and is beautiful inside. The cocktails are crafted with the upmost expertise and taste as good as they look.
Highball.. They have something for everyone whether it’s good music, board games, or dancing. TIP: Go here after a few drinks. The crowd is interesting.
So you want to check out Harvard…
Orinoco is a hidden gem among Harvard students and Cambridge locals in Harvard Square. If you are looking to expand your ethnic food horizons, stop by this Venezuelan hot spot before or after you check out Harvard’s campus.
Mike’s Pastry is best known for being in the North End (in little Italy) but it is also in Harvard Square for those who don’t want to deal with crowds. BONUS: the cannoli’s are just as good.
Ok, so you want to be semi-touristy…
Boston Public Garden is great to walk around in the winter/ spring! They have an ice rink, lots of different paths and great spots for photos such as the bridge, dock and all along the lake.
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is STUNNING. Make sure to go when they open to beat the rush but all of the history and rustic beauty is seriously breathtaking.
Boston Athenaeum has great exhibits but what was the COOLEST part was the library on the 5th floor. I actually only had admission to the first floor but asked the kind gentleman working the front desk if I could see the 5th floor so he escorted me up and became my photographer (HAH…poor guy)
Quincy Market is definitely a tourist hot spot but at the least, great for people watching!
Beacon Hill was one of my favorite moments of the trip because Kris and I got lost in the charming streets and started guessing who lived where and what did they do for a living. Go adventure and get lost in the streets- it’s worth it. TIP: Check out Acorn street, it’s a photographer’s dream!
Anything else?
Tatte Bakery is a Boston staple that has endless sweets and yummy coffee.
Barry’s Bootcamp is in Downtown Crossing and Dustin’s full body class kicked my butt.. WORTH IT.
Rouvalis Flowers and Bakery Shop is a cute little flower shop in Beacon Hill and great photo opps!
George Howell Coffee Shop located in the Godfrey Hotel saved Kris and I every morning with a lovely cup of ‘jo.
All in all, I left Boston with endless memories knowing the city still left me yearning for more. What’s next? For now, I am happy to be back home and appreciate what my favorite city has to offer.
Until we meet again, Boston. XO.
Lex