Part 2
THE MAPPARIUM
Photo credit: Mapparium
Mapparium is one of those quirky attractions.
Gain a new perspective on world geography at the Mapparium. Situated inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this hidden gem is a 3-story stained-glass globe that offers a 3-dimensional view of the world in 1935. An audiovisual show and an exhibition of artifacts and documents complete the experience.
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The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others.
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But here's what's so quirky about it. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.
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$6 for adults; free for youths 17 and younger
Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 210 Massachusetts Ave., Boston
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BEACON HILL
Personally, I think Beacon Hill is Boston's most beautiful neighborhood with its cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses, and flower-filled window boxes. It's rather like walking in a picture postcard.
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While there, make sure to make your way to noteworthy spots including the picturesque Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, the latter of which is one of the most photographed places in Boston. After, head down Charles Street, where you'll find restaurants, shops and bars. Fans of the TV show "Cheers" will want to walk down Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the program.
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If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Beacon Hill, visit the Nichols House Museum or take a complimentary walking tour (provided by the National Park Service) down The Black Heritage Trail, which chronicles the lives of African Americans who lived in Beacon Hill during the 19th century.
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Admission: Free
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EXPLORE AN OLD CIVIL WAR FORT
Photo credit: Pinterest
Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park is comprised of 34 islands sprinkled throughout the city harbor. Just 45 minutes by ferry from downtown, the park is a picturesque escape, where visitors can explore a Civil War–era fort, visit the oldest lighthouse in the United States, head out for a hike, or spend a night camping.
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You want to take the ferry to Georges Island to explore Fort Warren.
To visit Georges Island, you can take the Boston Harbor Islands Ferry from Long Wharf in Boston, with direct
service available May through October.
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Departure times vary, with ferries leaving for Georges Island at 10AM, 12PM, and 2PM, and for Spectacle Island at 10:30AM, 12:30PM, and 2:30PM.
Dining
Boston is a foodie's dream come true. One can eat their way through Boston.
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EAT ITALIAN FOOD IN THE NORTH END
When visiting the picturesque North End you'll feel like you're in Italy. If you want to take a foodie tour, Off the Eaten Path is considered one of the best tours in Boston.
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For the best thin crust pizza head to Regina Pizzaria. For the best Sicilian, head to Galleria Umberto. (Cash only) Best cannoli? Try Modern.
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For a fine dining experience, I recommend Carmelina's on Hanover. However, maximum table seating is 6 people. You'll want to read their reservations page for more information before booking a reservation.
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My absolute favorite in the North End is Assaggio's.
Photo credit: Assagio's
AQUA PAZZA
...is another great find in the North End.
The manicotti is to die for.
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Small and cozy with attentive service and a great selection of wines. Every aspect was outstanding from the zucchini flowers, to the kampachi tartare and the pasta sampler.
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$$$
Photos credit: Casa Romero
Casa Romero is a vibrant little Mexican restaurant in the Back Bay area of Boston.
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I've been to this restaurant twice now, and the food, drinks, and service never disappoint! It can get a little loud during prime time, but that's to be expected. There is a small, private, outdoor seating area that is beautiful too. I highly recommend this speak-easy-esque restaurant!
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And the best part? $
Nothing is over $30, which is virtually unheard of in Boston.
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30 Gloucester St, Boston
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If you're looking for a good burger in the Back Bay area, then try THE CAPITAL BURGER.
The Capital Burger serves a variety of gourmet burgers, as well as a fried chicken sandwich, lobster roll, Ribeye steak sandwich, appetizers, desserts and a variety of unique drinks both alcoholic and non alcoholic. They also have an extensive beer and wine menu.
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There's a nice outdoor patio seating area as well.
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A welcoming atmosphere with outstanding service.
PAIDAKIA
lamb chops, olive oil, lemon, oregano
Bar Vlaha is not just a restaurant; it’s a cultural journey into the heart of Greece, celebrating its people and traditions - which means the menu is loaded with slow-roasted lamb legs, charcoal-grilled freshwater fish, and all manner of savory pies and expertly prepared vegetables. The restaurant features locally sourced, seasonal ingredients prepared using rustic techniques like charcoal grilling and open-fire cooking.
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Food is delicious, wonderful menu, and friendly and attentive service.
Love their Paidakia.
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You have a view of the rotisserie and open kitchen inside but they also have nice patio dining.
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Boston Magazine named Bar Vlaha as Boston's #1 restaurant and the difficulty in getting reservations bears that out. (Reserve at least 3 weeks in advance!)
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1653 Beacon St, Brookline, MA
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$$-$$$
WUSONG ROAD
One way to tell you’re about to have a great night? Take note of a restaurant’s ability to transport you to a different locale once you step through the doorway.
Wusong Road scores extremely high marks in Boston. Chef and owner Jason Doo’s American Chinese restaurant and accompanying bar is a lush, tiki-filled escape. Sip on rum-soaked drinks, eat crab Rangoon and maple pork dumplings, and enjoy your vacation.
Wusong pupu platter
Try the Wusong pupu platter: teriyaki beef skewers, cherry-wood smoked cha siu pork, 'saugus' style wings, scallion pancake quesadilla, pan fried jiangshu pork dumplings, firecracker shrimp, vegetable spring rolls for a little taste of everything. Delicious!
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112 Mt Auburn St. Cambridge $$
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TAIWAN CAFE
Boston’s Chinatown is an essential dining destination for newcomers and locals alike, and Taiwan Cafe is one of its most reliable staples, serving an extensive selection of Taiwanese dishes as well as a bit of Sichuan cuisine. For the former, try the Taiwan-style pan-fried dumplings, the duck and cold beef over rice, and a roast beef scallion pancake roll; for the latter, the Sichuan-style white fish in chile oil always satisfies.
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Taiwan Cafe is best for a lightning-fast meal at the end of a long day (the kitchen stays open as late as 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday) that deeply satisfies without breaking the bank. $
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34 Oxford St, Boston
Those are just some of the great restaurants Boston has to offer in various price ranges.
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Most people visit during peak season summer months and this is one location I'd stick to peak season.
Spring is winter 2.0 and you don't want to be in Boston during the winter.
But it's possible to visit during the peak season and see Boston without busting your budget.