JQ Louise

Whether you want to let the kids run around outside, soak up some culture at a museum or try something new, Boston is overflowing with family-friendly activities. You just need to know where to look. We’ve got you covered: At these top places to entertain your kids in Boston, you can wear them out before they wear you out. With things to do for a range of ages and prices, we’ve ranked this list of expert local tips so families can make the most of a visit to Boston. And even when you’re on a budget, that doesn’t mean the good times have to stop. Check out our list of the best free things to do in Boston for fun that doesn’t cost a dime. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the 50 best things to do in Boston

Whether you’re a Boston newbie or a seasoned local, there’s no better place to introduce yourself to (or re-acquaint yourself with) the city and its humble history than the Freedom Trail. The 2.5-mile walking route through downtown Boston, clearly marked by its recognizable brick red “line” on the sidewalk, winds past several of the Hub’s best-known historical sites and attractions. While it’s easy to DIY your way through the American history lessons, you can also opt for an educational tour conducted by 18th-century costumed guides. Fortunately the trail also winds past some of Boston’s best restaurants and Boston's best bars so you can fuel up for all that exploration. Get the most out of the Freedom Trail with our guide to everything you need to explore this beloved historical and cultural footpath.  Where does the Freedom Trail start and end? You can join the Freedom Trail at any point, but to get the most out of the tour, it helps to follow from end to end. It technically begins at the Visitor Information Center on Boston Common, where you can pick up a map or rent an audio tour. It ends in Charlestown at the Bunker Hill Monument and USS Constitution. The Freedom Trail is set up geographically, not chronilogically, so it’s up to you where to begin your stroll. Where does the Freedom Trail go? The Freedom Trail covers a 2.5-mile stretch from Downtown Boston to Charlestown. Along the way, you’ll pass 16 historic landmarks marked by bronze plaques where you can learn about

While there’s something to be said for heaping plates of comfort food like mac and cheese or a big juicy burger, sometimes you’re in the mood for something light and delicious. For those moments, we’ve rounded up the best healthy restaurants in Boston. (Don’t worry; we’re also always here when you want to indulge! Can we tempt you with the best steakhouses, cocktail bars or and places for hot chocolate?) Check out these spots for smoothies, salads, vegan dishes and grain bowls that are not only healthy but also layered with flavor. 

Navigating Boston's labyrinthine streets can be daunting, looking for hidden gems waiting to be unearthed. But fear not—we know where to find these undercover spots. From cozy cocktail lounges nestled in secretive alleyways to a supply closet-turned immersive restaurant experience, we unveil the top-notch eateries and cocktail experiences just waiting to be discovered in Boston. Want to make a weekend of it? Get a room at one of the best hotels in Boston and follow up with one of the best brunches in the morning. 

Don’t let yourself fall victim to apartment fever this season, instead escape to some of New England's most picturesque cabins available on Airbnb. There is so much to do in New England throughout any season; leaf-peeping, winter sports or simply taking a break from downtown life – weekend getaways provide a welcome respite all year round. Take a chance and reconnect with nature, it'll do you some good (probably).  Check out these cozy cabins near Boston that you can rent to unwind in front of a warm fire in the great outdoors. For other unique accommodations near lots of nature, explore the best secluded Airbnbs near Boston and the best waterfront Airbnbs near Boston. Updated April 2024: You can bet your bottom dollar that we're always on the hunt for the most extraordinary holiday rentals for your next adventure, so you never have to miss out. That said, we simply couldn't keep this cozy woodland cabin to ourselves any longer, nor this amazing beachfront home right on the shore. No need to thank us, it's kind of what we do.  RECOMMENDED: 🌇See our guide to weekend getaways near Boston🛏Stay in the best Airbnbs in Boston🎭check out the best things to do in Boston Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influ

All dive bars are places where you can come as you are, relax, and not worry about a large bar tab. However, the trade is that customers must also take these bars as they are: gruff, slight disarray and the occasional mayhem of a rowdy night. Sadly, like so many other cities, Boston has been losing its beloved dive bars, with trendy restaurants, upscale condo buildings and other gentrification taking their place. But what that means is that those that have stood the test of time must be worth a look. While you’re at it pair them with night at one of the best music venues in Boston, best comedy clubs in Boston, or best sports bars in Boston.    RECOMMENDED: See the full list of the best bars in Boston

What makes a city great? Some would say it’s all about buzzing neighbourhoods, affordable food and drink and a mighty selection of things to do, from art galleries and museums to live music and theatre. Others might highlight things like the happiness of its locals, access to green space and strong community vibes. We factor in all that and more in our annual survey, which asks city-dwellers around the world to tell us what it’s like to live, work and play in their hometowns right now. Thanks to the opinions and insights of locals on the ground and our global network of city experts, we’re able to create a global ranking of the world’s best cities – and the 2024 results are in. As in previous years, the basis of the ranking remains our global survey of the people who know their city best: the locals. Working with research company Potentia Insight, we surveyed thousands of city-dwellers about the quality and affordability of food, culture and nightlife in their city. We also asked locals how their city makes them feel: are they happy there? Is it a beautiful place? Is it easy to make social connections? Their thousands of responses gave us a unique insight into the reality of living in the world’s greatest cities right now. Now that international travel is forecast to bounce back to the highest levels since 2019, many travellers will be planning a city break this year – so in 2024, we added a little extra weight to a city’s global appeal. Each survey respondent was asked which

We New Englanders know our ice cream—after all, we do have Friendly's and Ben & Jerry's in our blood. So when it comes to the best ice cream in Boston, we set the bar high. Many spots throughout the city strive to satisfy adventurous eaters with their gourmet concoctions and bold ingredients, while other parlors are still cranking out the classics for the traditionalists. Not a fan of frozen treats? You can still get your sugar fix at the best bakeries and the best dessert spots and best places for pie in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Guide to the best restaurants in Boston.

Whether the draw is a baseball game in America’s oldest ballpark or a concert at one of the most recognizable names in music venues, just about every Bostonian has spent some time in and around Fenway. But Fenway Park and the House of Blues aren’t the only reasons to hang out in the ‘hood. There are plenty of top-notch restaurants, clubs, games, and parks to keep the crowd (a mix of students, young professionals, and out-of-towners) busy. Once you’ve had your fill of the Fens, check out our guides to the best restaurants in Boston, best live music in Boston, and best museums in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston

Some of today's biggest comedians like Conan O'Brien, Denis Leary, Amy Poehler, and Lenny Clarke, kick-started their careers in Boston. Despite our seemingly tough exterior, Boston is a city that loves to laugh. And we have gathered our favorite comedy clubs in this guide so you can find the best spot for a hilarious evening. Get ready for the giggles with drinks at the best rooftop bars in Boston or set the mood with dinner at one of the most romantic restaurants in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston

While there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the city, sometimes you just want to hit the road and escape to the fresh air, country roads, and charming small towns. Use our guide for top spring getaways to plan your next trip. But if you can't take a whole weekend away, check out one of these day trips from Boston. And once you’re back in town, get back into the swing of things by hitting up the best museums, listening to some stellar live music and dining out at the hippest restaurants in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston. 

Spring is in full swing and we’re all coming out of our winter hibernation. If you feel like you need to shake off the winter chill a spa day might be just what you need. Fortunately, New England is filled with award winning spas and wellness centers offering the latest groundbreaking treatments and reliable classics, all within a short drive from Boston. Book a girl’s weekend, a couple’s getaway or treat mom for Mother’s Day! And if these get you in the mood for a little weekend trip check out our guide to all the best weekend getaways in New England.  

Taking over the former Olives space in City Square Park and a stone's throw away from TD Garden, this Italian restaurant stands out because it feels both fresh and like it’s been there for years, which in a way it has! If you ever went to Olives in its heyday, you will be excited to feel that same energy and vibrancy here at Prima. The menu features lots of delicious pastas, amazing steaks and sumptuous desserts. If you haven’t been yet, this is the spot we can’t stop recommending because it is so Boston is the best way.

Just over a year old, Estella in downtown crossing, has been making a name for themselves. This is a fun, casual neighborhood spot that we all need in our lives. On those nights where you want to grab a drink with a friend where you may or may not order food, this is the spot. Come for 30 minutes or stay all night; you are in for a good time.

Boston is basically the capital of Irish America... and Southie is the Irish capital of Boston. Thousands of people throw on anything green and head down to South Boston to celebrate St. Patrick’s each year. The day kicks off with a time-honored “St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast”, where politicians sing Irish drinking songs, recite limericks and roast their opponents. This local ritual sets the stage for one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S., complete with floats, marching bagpipers and of course lots of politicians, many of whom actually have Irish blood in their veins. Pubs along the route and throughout Boston overflow with merrymakers and holligans all day long—so be prepared. Be sure to check out our list of other St. Patrick’s Day Events in Boston, keep our list of the best Irish pubs in Boston handy and peruse our list of the best burgers in Boston for a place to soak up everything up when the night comes to an end. When is the St. Patrick's Day Parade? Sunday, March 17, 2024 at 1pm. Where is the St. Patrick's Day Parade? The parade takes place in South Boston. It starts at West Broadway and Dorchester Ave, continues along West Broadway to East Broadway, then turns and heads back west, ending on Dorchester Ave. See the official map of the St. Patrick's Day Parade    Other tips *Will it be cold or warm? It's always a crapshoot. Wear layers and don’t forget your green! *Alcohol is not allowed along the route. Keep it at the bars or your house parties. Po

Like some variety when you go out to eat? Time Out Market Boston has you covered. Boston's first contemporary culinary hub boasts a tantalizing variety of curated food offerings, two top-notch bars and lots more. There is plenty of seating—both indoors and on a roomy, sun-splashed patio with lots of heaters—and some of the biggest culinary names in Boston are delivering a varied assortment of delicious dishes and 'Gram-worthy bites. Housed in the 401 Park Drive building, an Art Deco masterpiece built in 1929 as a Sears, Roebuck and Company warehouse, Time Out Market Boston follows in the footsteps of the wildly popular Time Out Market Lisbon, which opened in 2014 and is now Portugal’s most visited attraction with more than four million visitors annually.

Table Caffé is a North End favorite for gelato and is the sweetest offering from founder Jen Royal. Chef-owner of TABLE Restaurant, Mercato & Caffé in the North End, Jen has continued to push the boundaries to offer people a place to come together over food. Table Caffé’s homemade gelato brings a little bit of the North End here to Fenway and it couldn’t be the sweeter treat. 

The Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston is truly a sight to behold. From the moment you step into the hotel's lobby, you are transported to another world. The stunning lobby is a true masterpiece, with its high ceilings, intricate molding, and sparkling chandeliers. One of the things that really sets the Fairmont Copley Plaza apart is the attention to detail. Starting in the lobby, its plush seating areas, gorgeous marble floors, and stunning artwork on the walls make it a grand place to start off any trip to Boston. Whether you're here for a business meeting, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, you'll feel instantly at home in this luxurious space. What's truly remarkable about the lobby at the Fairmont Copley Plaza is how it manages to strike the perfect balance between grandeur and warmth. Despite its opulence, the space feels welcoming and inviting, with a rare sense of intimacy in a hotel of this size. One of the standout features of the lobby is the iconic lobby clock, a beloved Boston landmark that has been a fixture in the hotel since it first opened its doors in 1912. The clock is a symbol of the hotel's history and its connection to the city, and it serves as a reminder of the timeless elegance that is at the heart of the Fairmont Copley Plaza experience. The rooms in the hotel are classic, yet bright. Opt for a room with a view of Copley Plaza and you will feel a part of the action. Also, make time to dine or at least grab drinks at OAK Long Bar + Kitchen. Often

1928 Beacon Hill is a new hidden gem on Beacon Hill run by Chef Victor Valencia. Located half a block up from Charles St. on Mt. Vernon, this spot feels as if it has always been there, which is the key to the making of a new classic. The prohibition era cocktails served in a speakeasy-style space is just the place you will want to cozy up in every Friday night.

Chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette recently added an Italian-inspired restaurant to their fantastic local line-up (Coppa, Toro, Little Donkey), and we’re so glad they did. The seafood inspired menu utilizes fresh ingredients, including in-season produce from the Copley Square Farmers Market. The spacious Back Bay restaurant serves coastal delights including a half dozen crudos, grilled Scituate lobster and an excellent selection of spritzes.

Located at the foot of Beacon Hill, Florina serves up extra large pizzaa and sandwiches. Cheese pizza by the slice is $3.75 and a very hefty “That Sandwich”, which is made with breaded chicken, prosciutto, roasted red pepper & fresh mozzarella with white balsamic vinaigrette is $12.25. Barstool Sports, “El Pres,” said in his review on Barstool “it’s a very traditional” quality pizza and we have to agree. 

The North End is home to many pizza places, and we all have our favorites, but Ducali Pizza is especially worth a visit because they have a full cocktail list. So not only can you enjoy lots of delicious and creative pizzas, but you can also enjoy a spritz or two as well. Only downside is they don’t sell slices, you have to buy a full pizza, but there are small personal sized pizzas starting at $10 each and large pizzas starting at $18 for cheese. 

Next Door is another amazing speakeasy that opened this year in Boston. Located in Eastie, just a short walk from the Maverick T stop on the Blue Line, it is accessible no matter which neighborhood you live in. The entrance is just behind Pazza on Porter, and you must know the secret code to get in. Once you enter, you feel as if you have stepped back in time. The chic bar and over the top cocktails make it a wonderful place to spend an evening.

This is the last weekend that Broadway in Boston will present Wicked at the Citizens Bank Opera House. This classic cannot be missed! Please note that attendees are currently required to wear face masks except when eating or drinking. Show times: Friday 8PM Saturday 2PM Saturday 8PM Sunday 1PM

Boston is home to thousands of college students each year. While Boston has a reputation for being expensive, Time Out Market Boston is just a stone’s throw from some of Boston’s top colleges and universities and offers lots of cheap eats. We have gathered our top student-budget-friendly items that you have to try this semester. Be sure to also check out our guide to cheap eats throughout Boston as well.  anoush'ella   Photograph: Morgan Olsen  anoush’ella is known for their healthy Mediterranean fare, and lots of hearty items are $15 or less. Chef Mezze Sampler ($16) - Sampling of hummus, labne, baba-ganoush, falafel, walnut harissa + flatbread Individual Mezee ($4.50) - choice of one from the above list + flatbread Fattoush Salad ($14) - Mixed greens, tomato, cucumber, red pepper, onion, fresh herbs, pomegranate vinaigrette Lentil Rice with Zataar Chicken Grain Bowl ($14) - Armenian Salad, labne, walnut harissa, pickled turnip Anoush'ella Beef Kofta ($14.50) - hummus, sumac onion, tahini, zhouk & side of baba ganoush Rice Pudding ($5.25) Cusser's Photograph: Brian Samuels  Cusser’s is a great place to get a taste of New England and lots of signature items are $12 or less. Fish Tacos ($11) - crispy fish, cabbage slaw, pickled onions, cilantro, jalapenos, Thoreau sauce Clam Chowder ($7.50) All Roast Beef Sandwiches are $12   Gogo Ya  Photograph: Jaclyn Rivasgogo ya's crispy nori tacos Get a taste of O Ya, one of Boston’s top restaurants at a steal of a deal at Go

Voice of Boston is our series where we interview local tastemakers on their favorite neighborhoods, restaurants and hangouts around the city. If you missed our last one, catch up on our chat  with Mike Lamagna, founder of Long Wharf Supply.  This week we are speaking with Michael Kasseris, a Belmont native, who co-founded The Rail Trail Flatbread Co., New City Microcreamery and Less than Greater than. He inherited his passion for the restaurant industry from his father, Teddy, who established eateries across the state. Armed with an MBA from Babson, Michael co-founded his own popular spots over the past few years. Courtesy   What are your favorite neighborhoods in Boston?   Seaport Harbor walk. My wife Anna was born and raised in Thessaloniki Greece, so we love to walk around in the Seaport, because it reminds us of being back in Greece.  Where do you go for a late-night bite?  Franklin Cafe is always a go to for me. Food has always been on point and cocktails always hit just right.  In general, what are some of your favorite restaurants and bars right now? I love Josephine’s in Somerville, Myers and Chang, Greco Seaport and Lolita’s.  Name a “hidden gem” where you always take friends or family when they are visiting from out of town?  Not much of a hidden gem, but when friends from out of town come to Boston, they usually want great seafood and I always take them to Row 34. And another favorite is Yankee Lobster, which is also close by in the Seaport. What do you think is

Even to our fellow New Englanders, Bostonians can sometimes sound like we are speaking a different language. Whether you’re a college student with four years ahead of you, you just married a local or are simply here for a vacation, everyone new to Boston could use a crash course on our local lingo. From our colorful terms of endearment to the nicknames we’ve bestowed upon our favorite neighborhoods, there’s so much more to Boston slang than dropping your “Rs.” So, when you ask for directions to the Freedom Trail or to the best Irish pub in town, listen carefully and you may be able to translate a few of our favorite Boston sayings. Bang a uey (v.): to make a U-turn, likely an illegal one because that’s just how we do. Bubbler (n.): a drinking fountain. B’daydas (n.): a term of endearment for potatoes. The Cape (n.): Cape Cod, where tourists and preppies flock during the summer months, causing hours of traffic delays south of the city.  Carriage (n.): a shopping cart that you use to get your groceries, most likely at Market Basket.  Cellar (n.): the basement; pronounced “cell-ah.” The Charles (n.): The Charles River, which is no longer flowing with its infamous “dirty water”... but you should still probably close your mouth ASAP, if you ever fall in.  Clicker (n.): the remote control; pronounced “click-ah.” Coogans (n.): where you get dollar drafts.   Comm Ave (n.): no one has time to say Commonwealth Avenue. Dollar Drafts (n.): see Coogans. Dungarees (n.): jeans (exclusively

We've managed to make it through another winter in Boston, so what better way to shake off the last of our cabin fever with a trip to the New England countryside? Escape the city and jumpstart spring by visiting this quaint Vermont inn. Hill Farm is only a three-hour drive from Boston and yet a world away. Photograph: Courtesy Hill Farm Where is Hill Farm? Nestled in the Equinox Mountain Valley along the Battenkill River, Hill Farm is a quaint Vermont inn worth visiting this winter. Hill Farm started life as a dairy farm in 1779 and is now a sustainable vegetable farm that invites guests to experience farm-to-table dining in a luxurious, cozy setting.   Photograph: Courtesy Hill Farm There are both inn rooms and private cottages available for guests. As soon as you step into your room you will feel as if you have arrived at your very own country escape. The entire property has been designed to highlight the works of local artisans and there are plenty of opportunities to experience the local culture through a wide range of activities like farm tours, culinary classes, fly-fishing, hiking, natural dyeing and yoga.   Photograph: Courtesy Hill Farm Dining at Hill Farm The property recently opened an onsite restaurant called the Grange at Hill Farm. Vermont native, Chef Austin Poulin, formerly of Blue Hill at Stone Barns and Albi in Washington, D.C., has created a menu that shifts with the seasons and highlights the local bounty.   Photograph: Courtesy Hill Farm Housed in

Nantucket is magical this time of year. The hydrangeas, the quaint streets, the amazing beaches, it all adds up to a beautiful scene. But for most of us, we are forced to either day trip, book a hotel room or try our luck with Airbnb. However, none of these offer the same level of experience as if you own your own vacation house on Nantucket—space to spread out, a backyard to grill and plenty of bedrooms for all the family and friends you desire to bring with you. This is where Exclusive Resorts comes in.  Exclusive Resorts owns luxury properties all over the world, but unlike other luxury rentals, you do not need to commit to long stays. Book for a few days or a month, and you are in for a special trip. Photograph: Courtesy Exclusive Resorts   During our recent visit to Nantucket for the Nantucket Wine Festival, we had the pleasure of staying at an exquisite five-bedroom, five-bathroom Exclusive Resorts home located in Downtown Nantucket. Before our visit the team at Exclusive Resorts connected us with an on-island concierge. She was exceptional, a Nantucket local, she shared all the must-dos and suggestions appropriate for all everyone in my family. Because she got to know us before the trip, she knew exactly what we would like and what we wouldn’t. She was also able to get us reservations that I couldn’t secure myself. Having someone native to the island at our fingertips was so helpful when it came to asking her questions about what specifically to order, is this beach

We all need to take some to treat ourselves. And luckily there are lots of places to do so right in our own backyard. Whether that’s trying a new outdoor bar, booking a table on a restaurant patio or spending a day at the beach, now is the time to savor New England. But for the ultimate treat yourself moment, book a staycation at the Ritz Carlton Boston. Perched over Boston Common, the Ritz Carlton Boston is one of the most centrally located hotels in town so no matter what you have in mind for your weekend away, you will be within walking distance. Book a room with a view of the common to take full advantage of this stunning property. Also be sure to scoop up a room with Club Lounge access as well—the lounge offers all day snacks, drinks and more and is the ultimate upgrade for any weekend.   Photograph: Courtesy Michael Kleinberg Photography When you walk into the hotel, you are greeted by a sleek, dark walled lobby, attentive staff and the beautiful Avery Bar. And when you get upstairs to your room or suite, you will enjoy a clean yet classic aesthetic. The hotel recently refurbished their luxury Parkview Suites in the spirit of one of Boston’s most notable personalities, Isabella Stewart Gardner. The suites have been reimagined by New York’s Rockwell Group to bring both the sprit and style of Gardner to the Ritz Carlton Boston. “For us, it was important that the suites reflect Boston’s rich history,” said Hilli Wuerz, Senior Associate, Rockwell Group. “The life of Isabe

There's an adorable activity taking place up north and it involves a dozen sweet dogs. Yes, you can play with 12 golden retrievers and get photos taken with them this holiday season.  Head to Jeffersonville Vermont’s Golden Dog Farm for an aww-inducing Golden Retriever Experience. For $75 a person, you can have a playdate with the farm's super friendly golden retrievers for an hour or so.  Becca and Doug Worple run the farm, and began offering the experience back in September. They told Boston.com that the response was “immediate and overwhelming” with travel Tiktokers posting about the dogs, and the farm’s own account garnering over 2 million views. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Golden Dog Farm - Vermont (@goldendogfarmvt)   The dogs don’t actually live on the farm, they come from local breeders Butternut Hill Golden Retrievers, which is owned by friends of the Worples. The breeders bring in a dozen or so dogs for the day, and they’re all friendly and ready to play and cuddle with farm guests.  Watching the retrievers leap from the back of the truck is pretty adorable, and guests can take photos and videos of the whole group.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jordana Judson | 🗽NYC + FL Content Creator (@jordanataylor)   Farm owner Becca is a professional photographer, and happy to take photos of you with the dogs, as well as selfies you take on your own. She and her husband found their way to Vermont from Oh

The Eliot Hotel is one of Boston’s best boutique hotels. Located in the heart of the charming Back Bay neighborhood, The Eliot offers guests the perfect spot to relax and unwind while staying close to all the city attractions you want to enjoy. And the cherry on top? Your four-legged family members are welcome to join you. Keep reading to find out how to have the perfect dog-friendly staycation in Boston. Why you should book a staycation at The Eliot Photograph: Courtesy Eliot Hotel The Eliot offers impeccable service, historic charm, and an award-winning restaurant right on site! The central location means you’re close to some of the best the city has to offer, from shopping on Newbury St to the Museum of Fine Arts there is plenty to do within walking distance. The Eliot may offer historic charm and timeless elegance but the hotel has recently made upgrades and renovations so the rooms are equipped with all the modern comforts you need and want! Bringing your dog to The Eliot Photograph: Courtesy Katie McAleer The Eliot welcomes your four-legged family members! They do not have a size limit so big or small your dog is welcome, but you must bring a crate to crate them if you plan to leave them alone in the room at all during your stay. The Eliot will provide a food and water bowl in the room and some welcome treats for your pup! Conveniently located, there is a dog park right across the street from the hotel or you can walk your dog along Comm Ave. Be sure to let the hote

The warm season may be short in Boston, but it is sweet. Any sunny afternoon can turn into the best night ever as long as someone has a good idea. Whether that’s trying a new outdoor bar, booking a table on a restaurant patio or spending a day at the beach, this time of year in New England is special, so make the most of it and try something new. And in this case, rediscover something that has always been there, but it was just hiding in plain sight. The Beacon Hill Hotel has been around since 2000, but recently underwent a multi-year refurbishment and feels fresh while maintaining the charm of the side-by-side 19th-century townhouses it occupies on Boston’s historic Charles Street on Beacon Hill. The hotel has always been distinctly European, and the recent renovation has brought the best out of the property. Photograph: Courtesy Beacon Hill Hotel If you have stayed at the hotel in past years, you’ll notice a fresh look and feel in the guest rooms, a few subtle pops of color or pattern, some beautiful textures and lots of little details throughout. The bar downstairs has been expanded tremendously, which it always deserved given the crowd of regulars who frequent each night. The Beacon Hill Hotel has always been a neighborhood hangout filled with the well-heeled and well-dressed locals. Photograph: Courtesy Beacon Hill Hotel   But the best part is that there is a new menu coming to the roof deck and I know it is about to become the insider spot of the summer. I last dine

Want to wake up in the lap of Bostonian luxury, if even for a day? Luckily, one of the swankiest locations for a staycation is right in our very own Back Bay. Book an overnight escape to The Newbury Boston and enjoy all that this city hotel has to offer. The Newbury Boston Photograph: Courtesy the Newbury Located in the Back Bay, The Newbury Boston began life in 1927 as one of the first Ritz Carlton hotels in America. Today the Newbury is one of the chicest hotels in Boston and is just the place for a winter staycation. What is the Newbury’s the fireplace program? Photograph: Courtesy Newbury Boston The Newbury’s fireplace program comes complete with a curated hearthside, in-room dining menu and the services of a Fireplace Butler. We wrote about the launch of this program last winter. Guests staying in one of the 42 Fireplace Suites get access to not only a woodburning fireplace to enjoy, but also to the exclusive in-room dining menu that assists in cozying up to the max in this plush Brahmin setting. All Fireplace Suites feature a king bed, wood-burning fireplace, separate living room and bedrooms, marble bathroom with a walk-in rainfall shower and the complimentary services of a Fireplace Butler. What else does the Newbury Boston offer?  Photograph: Courtesy J.Q. Louise The Newbury is also home to one of our favorite bars in Boston, the Street Bar. This is one of those hotel bars that locals actually frequent, so it also has an in-the-know feel and buzzing atmosphere.

New Englander’s chasing the snow will now find some familiar faces out west. Boston based Blue Flag Capital, locally known for curating elevated hospitality experiences, including Faraway Hotels on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, recently spread their wings, all the way to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. With two new hotel acquisitions in Teton Village, Blue Flag Capital is set to make their mark on Jackson Hole. The Alpenhof and Snake River Lodge are two long standing favorites in Jackson Hole according to Brad Guidi, CDO and Co-Founder of Blue Flag Capital, these two properties were a perfect addition to their portfolio, “inspiration at first sight is crucial for any property we consider. We seek a certain indescribable spark in each location. Both the Alpenhof and Snake River Lodge have this." Alpenhof has deep roots in Teton Village and Jackson Hole, first opening for Christmas 1965. When asked what updates or changes guests can expect to this historical property, Blue Flag Capital CEO Jason Brown says, “We want to know from the guests and locals themselves what made the Snake River Lodge and Alpenhof great so that when we make any needed changes down the road, it's coming from a place of respecting the past and building upon it, vs. just scrapping what's been working for years and starting new.” While the team will be bringing fresh ideas and the upscale, soulful hospitality Blue Flag is known for, Brown assures, “At the end of the day, we believe honoring historical properties

Get Out of Town is a series where we highlight easy getaways from Boston. These may be a perfect bitesize weekend trip or a splurge worthy weeklong escape. But the main criteria are that the destination is both convenient to access and offers visitors an experience that surprises and delights. If you missed our recommendation last time, read all about why you should book a trip to Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod. Why drive to Vermont  We are smack dab in the middle of a cold, dark, New England winter. And if you are like us, you are looking for ways to kick the winter blues to the curb. Luckily, we have lots of ideas on places to visit for a quick getaway, check out our full weekend guide from Boston. But if you are looking for an especially chic, snowy spot, this boutique hotel in Vermont is worth the drive.  Photograph: Courtesy Hermitage Inn The Hermitage Inn is only about 2.5 hours from Boston and luckily the route is one that rarely gets slowed down by traffic on busy days. Once you get out of the city, it should be smooth sailing all the way to Vermont. What it’s like at the Hermitage Inn  The original inn on the property at the Hermitage Inn is from the 1700s, but the current owners completely renovated the entire property after purchasing the property during the pandemic. And they reopened to the public last winter. This season the hotel’s lift to the Hermitage Club also reopened. Photograph: Courtesy Andrew Cardwell The inn has a very European feel, when you arrive