Driving - DC to Boston

Hello,

What would be the best route to drive from DC to Boston? We would like to possibly avoid main traffic and tolls.

Also, what would be the best way to reach Portland, Maine from DC?

Thanks for the replies!

Driving - DC to Boston

If you%26#39;re a member of AAA, you can free maps of each area, plus they%26#39;ll mark your route.

Meanwhile, here%26#39;s the best bet directions. This DOES include toll roads where it makes sense, since often that%26#39;s the shortest route and your time is much more valuable than the couple of dollars you%26#39;d save on tolls:

Washingon to Boston:

- 295 North

- 95 North into NYC over the George Washington Bridge. Watch for signs for Henry Hudson Parkway North right after the bridge.

- Henry Hudson Parkway North to Saw Mill Parkway North to Hutchinson River Parkway North to Merritt Parkway North in Connecticut to Wilbur Cross Parkway North (This SOUNDS much more difficult than it actually drives. Most you won%26#39;t even know you made the change).

- 91 North towards Hartford

- 84 East via the route 15 Bypass just outside of Hartford, CT.

- 90 East (Mass Pike) in Massachusetts into Boston

Driving - DC to Boston

Hi,

That route has traffic and construction all the time. However, basically Alanm%26#39;s route is what I%26#39;d suggest, with one change. Also, when you are on the NJ turnpike, although it sounds counter-intuitive, when the road splits into the car-only and all-traffic lanes, take the all-traffic lanes. The car-only lanes always seem to have much worse backups than the all-traffic lanes. I think it%26#39;s because so many people in cars decide that they don%26#39;t want to drive with the trucks, and they clog those lanes. Many times, driving in the all-traffic lanes, I%26#39;ve whizzed by miles of backed-up traffic in those car-only lanes.

Here%26#39;s what I usually do. When I get to exit 4 of the NJ Turnpike, I tune in to 880 WCBS AM. That%26#39;s the news station out of NY. Listen for the traffic reports. If they are not reporting problems with the GW bridge inbound, then go that way. ALSO...the GW has two levels, upper and lower. The lower level usually has less traffic problems. However, they usually say in the traffic reports which level is better, so listen closely, as you have to make that decision well before you get to the bridge.

IF the reports say that the GW is bad, take the Garden State Parkway exit off of the Turnpike, and take it north to the end, at I-287 East in Westchester. Follow signs to the Tappan Zee bridge. Take the Tappan Zee, and continue on 287 until you see signs for the Hutchinson Pkwy/Merritt Pky north. Then, continue with Alanm%26#39;s directions above.

Once you are in MA, on I-90 (Mass Pike), take that to I-95 north, and that will take you to Portland.

Thank you very much for the suggestions!

Here%26#39;s how we drive from the DC area to Boston---in PA, take I-81 north until you reach I-84. Take I-84 into MA and pick up the MA turnpike into Boston. It%26#39;s actually more miles than driving down I-95 but far fewer tolls and less congestion. Take a look at a good map to see how to best access I-81 from your exact starting point.

And again... hotel question

I have been reading Boston forum for some time but still cannot figure out what hotel to chose for our coming soon visit to Boston. What area would be the best? Downtown, Theater district, Copley, Beacon Hill, Waterfront...? What hotels are nice (location, rooms)? We will be celebrating our anniversary and we are ready to spend more than usual, but I really do not want to be disappointed with our choice (as many people here complain, for example, about outdated furniture and not clean rooms, even in expensive hotels!, noise, etc, etc). Any ideas, suggestions would be greatly appriecated! Thanks! :-)

And again... hotel question

What are your plans or likes/dislikes?? That would help us focus on the right area for you.

And again... hotel question

My favorite in Boston for a variety of reasons is the Marriot Long Wharf. On the harbor close to Quincy Market, The North End, Freedom Trail, and a reasonable distance to Copley Sq. Newbury St etc.

Hi,

Jury%26#39;s seems to get the most consistently high ratings here on TA. It%26#39;s got an excellent location in Back Bay near shopping, restaurants and transportation. I%26#39;d say for a special occasion place, you should try there.

Another option is the new InterContinental on the harbor. It%26#39;s a very nice, brand new hotel, with great views and located near Quincy Market and not far from the North End.

Finally, the Marriott Custom House hotel gets very high ratings here, and it%26#39;s an ideal location right downtown, next to Quincy Market and near the North End and the Boston Common.

Just did priceline.com for New York City and got a great bargain. But New York City has a million acceptable neighborhoods to stay in comfortably. Count that next to the one million and one reasons why Boston and New York City are so different. That being said, in Boston I feel like the best spot to stay is any area besides the Theater District and the ';South Boston'; Waterfront. The other areas you mentioned are all close to public transport and many tourist attractions.

Did they throw in tickets to a Yankees game??

I have stayed at the Long Wharf Marriott on 3 different occassions over the past several years and have found it to be a great spot right on the water. The most recent occassion was a July Fourth weekend and our room was right next door to the elevators which was noisey but because the hotel was totally booked they could not move our room. The hotel did offer a $150 voucher for any Marriott property which was a nice gesture.

The best experience was for my wife%26#39;s 40th birthday at the Four Seasons. Top notch all the way right across the street from the Boston Public Garden. It is one of the priceier hotels in Boston but we were booked during a slow period so it was a little easier to swallow.

Thank you all for the ideas! I will check suggested hotels (again ;-)

As for likes/dislikes - I%26#39;d like a nice hotel in a good location, a nice room (clean, no smell, not too old furniture, etc). As for our plans - we like to walk and plan on walking to explore Boston (Freedom trail, of course, and other places). I%26#39;d like to go the MFA and Harvard (by T?).

Is Copley rather far from the downtown area or not really? It is hard to say by only looking on the map.

Thanks again!

Nothing in Boston is really all that far, hence the ';Walking City';. From Copley you can walk downtown rather easily and you can cut through the Boston Public Garden (The Swan Boats) and the Boston Common (The Duck Pond) to get there. The Freedom Trail starts at the Boston Common and from the Copley area you are not too far away depending on you exact location. You can also hop on the MBTA Green Line at Copley Station and go inbound to Park Street (Boston Common), Government Center (Fanieul Hall area) and Haymarket (the edge of the North End).

From a location standpoint, the Omni Parker seems likes the best choice for you. It is right on the Freedom Trail and is only a block from the Green Line (MFA) and Red Line (Harvard) subways. I am a little concerned about the ';old'; furniture comment, so you may want to check out the reviews yourself on this sight and make sure that wouldn%26#39;t be an issue for here.

Hi

I highly recommend the Lenox-we stayed there for 10 days and it`s an excellent hotel.Clean large rooms,friendly staff and convenient for all the touristy stuff.

I`m not a great walker but even I felt comfortable walking upto the common,shopping areas and freedom trail all within easy reach.

We came over from the uk and my hubby did`nt want to do any driving so this was perfect for us and the transport system is ideal.

We went to Plymouth for a couple of days and then to salem for a day.

We had a fantastic time and at the end of the day we knew we were coming back to a comfortable room.

We are planning our next visit for 2008 and will certainly stay at the Lenox.

Hope you enjoy Boston as much as we did.

hydrocortisone cream

Hotel Advice Please

Hi

I%26#39;m looking for some help re. hotels. I%26#39;m looking at a short trip to Boston in November with some friends. It%26#39;s one of those unplanned ';let%26#39;s just do it'; kind of trips, but as we all have other holidays planned this year (I%26#39;m just back from New York and am also going to Rome in October) we really need to keep accomodation costs to a minimum.

I%26#39;ve never been to Boston before so don%26#39;t really know the city layout. I%26#39;ve managed to get a really good deal on the Holiday Inn Express in Boston Street and, depending on what website I look up, it seems to be between 2 and 4 miles from downtown. Will this be a major problem, particularly with regard to getting to the downtown area in the evenings for eating out/night life?

I%26#39;ve also got a good price on the Bulfinch Hotel, which seems to be in the downtown area and looks like it would be ideally situated, but it%26#39;s a bit more expensive and, shock! horror! it seems to be a totally non-smoking hotel!

Any advice would be appreciated.

BMD

Hotel Advice Please

Yes, that Holiday Inn Express wouldn%26#39;t be very convenient as far as getting in to downtown Boston. Personally, I never liked that area it%26#39;s in. It%26#39;s near Columbia Rd., Dudley St. and Andrew Square? Forget about it. It%26#39;s a pain to get from there. Others might not agree. I think you can do much better for what you%26#39;re thinking of paying. Besides, where it%26#39;s your first time in Boston? For what your budget is. I think you could do better than that.

Yes, the Bulfinch is more expensive. There%26#39;s also a Holiday Inn on Blossom St. %26amp; Cambridge Sts right around the corner from the Quincy Market and literally at the foot of Beacon Hill. You could walk out the door of this hotel and see so much. The rates look a little higher though. I would give them a call or check it out online again to see what they want a night compared to the what you were looking at on Boston St.

You could also as a suggestion, bid for a room and do well I bet! Go to Better Bidding and then the Priceline sites to see about that. You%26#39;ll probably luck out that way with a fancier hotel at an even lesser rate!

What about a B%26amp;B? This one is in Brookline. Right near the Green line trolley. It%26#39;s SO nice too. It%26#39;s running roughly $134 a nite? What do you think about that? It%26#39;s rated #2 on Trip Advisor for Inns in Brookline and you%26#39;ll see why when you see their website. It%26#39;s really nice and it would be convenient for getting in and out of Boston on the trolley. Just go to the MBTA site for directions with that part of it. The Innkeepers will suggest places too near the Inn. You could check out Brookline Village while you%26#39;re there in that area. It%26#39;s also only a few minutes on the trolley to get in to the Back Bay end of Boston where you%26#39;ll want to be any way. The Back Bay ';T'; is there too if you wanted to get over to the Quincy Market area.

Here%26#39;s this B%26amp;B%26#39;s info for you:

The Bertram Inn

92 Sewall Ave.

Brookline, MA.

www.bertraminn.com

Good luck and keep us posted. I don%26#39;t know whether you%26#39;ll be able to smoke at any of these places now? They probably have designated areas though? It%26#39;s just that there%26#39;s no smoking policies all over the country these days. I notice the policy even hit Ireland too last summer when I was there!

Hotel Advice Please

Regarding Boston%26#39;s Subway....

The MBTA subway operates from 5:15 am to 12:30 am Monday - Saturday and Sunday from 6 am to 12:30 am. The fare is $1.25 per ride and is payable with a token which is sold inside each subway station. The MBTA Visitor Passport is also available as a ticket good for 1 or 3 or 7 days unlimited use. It can be purchased at the Back Bay Station%26#39;s Amtrak window.

WizeGuides.com Combines the MBTA system layout with a map that combines information you need including streets, subway lines and stops, businesses, attractions, schools, hospitals, and more and their relation to the MBTA. Print out map pages and there you go.

There%26#39;s also other B%26amp;B%26#39;s that are closer to Kenmore Square and Commonwealth Ave. that you could look at. I just prefer this one in Brookline I think you%26#39;d have the best of both worlds if you stayed at the Bertram Inn!

Good luck and have a wonderful trip!

OOPS...sorry NO TOKENS any more. It%26#39;s the Charlie Card now in the subways. You%26#39;ll see the new changes when you get here!

Hi NoMo01

Many thanks for all your help. It%26#39;s quite difficult when you don%26#39;t know a city at all to know what areas are good, etc.

You%26#39;ve given me plenty of info and suggestions to get my teeth into. I was leaning towards the Bulfinch from my original two choices (even though I%26#39;m one of the smokers in the group). It may just involve lots of trips in and out of the hotel for quick nicotine fixes!! Hopefully Boston is OK about people smoking on the streets?

Yes, we have the smoking ban here for the last three or so years, although most hotels still offer smoking rooms (as far as I%26#39;m aware).

I%26#39;ll check out prices online over the next few days re your suggestions.

thanks again for all your help.

BMD

Hi,

November is a great time to get deals on hotels in Boston. You might want to try the John Jeffries House, which is a block away from the Bulfinch, and is probably only 2/3 the price or less. It%26#39;s a very nice place that gets consistently good reviews here on TA:

http://www.johnjeffrieshouse.com

The Bulfinch is in an excellent location. That Holiday Inn you picked is a nice motel. In fact, my dad has stayed there a couple of times and liked it. BUT, it%26#39;s in an ugly industrial area on a busy highway, and there is nothing around it of any interest to a tourist. It%26#39;s only a 5 minute walk from the Andrew Red Line station, though.

But, I%26#39;d check the John Jeffries, before making any final decisions.

You also might want to try Priceline. People get great bargains bidding on hotels through Priceline. However, just be aware that you can%26#39;t guarantee a smoking room or number of beds or anything like that, with Priceline. The only guarantee they give, is that the room will sleep 2 people.

However, people have gotten major downtown chain hotels for under $100/night.

http://www.priceline.com

BeantownMan -

Many thanks for your suggestions. I have just emailed John Jeffries House asking them for a price. I did have a quick look at priceline (I haven%26#39;t used it before) and if it was just me or just two of us travelling I would take the chance but there may be 5 of us (still to be confirmed) I don%26#39;t think this is the trip to experiment on. Fingers crossed re. the John Jeffries House, but I don%26#39;t think I%26#39;ll beat the price I got for the Bulfinch.

NoMo01 -

Many thanks for your second post re subways and maps. This info will come in very handy.

I will keep you updated and let you know how I get on

Regards

BMD

But just look at how close you%26#39;ll be to everything from the Bulfinch. You%26#39;ll be in such a convenient spot to SO many places; plus North Station and Haymarket Square MBTA ';T'; stops are only yards away from the front door. I think you%26#39;ll luck out that way if you end up staying here. It%26#39;s also a hipper, newer hotel.

From Boston Common: 0.5 miles/800 meters.

From Boston Tea Party: 1 miles/1.6 km.

From Esplanade/Hatch Memorial Shell: 0.25 miles/400 meters.

From Faneuil Hall Marketplace 0.25 miles/400 meters.

From Fenway Park: 2 miles/3.2 km.

From FleetCenter: 0.1 miles/160 meters.

From Freedom Trail: 0.25 miles/400 meters.

From Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: 2 miles/3.2 km.

From JFK Library and Museum: 7 miles/11.2 km.

From Museum of Fine Arts: 2 miles/3.2 km.

From Museum of Science: 0.75 miles/1.2 km.

From New England Aquarium: 0.25 miles/400 meters.

From Old North Church 0.15 miles/240 meters.

From Paul Revere House: 0.15 miles/240 meters.

From Symphony Hall: 1.75 miles/2.8 km.

From USS Constitution: 1 mile/1.6 km.

From Bayside Exposition Center: 7 miles/11.2 km.

From Boston Convention Center: 1.25 miles/2 km.

From City Hall Plaza: 0.2 miles/300 meters.

From Hynes Convention Center: 1.5 miles/2.4 km.

Did you see what the rates for hotel rooms were on Venere, I couldn%26#39;t believe that site! Check it out...

Again, good luck and have a wonderful time.

OK - you%26#39;ve definitely convinced me! The Bulfinch it is! Now I just have to get confirmed numbers and hope to book early next week.

I haven%26#39;t done a lot of homework as yet as this trip was just a spur of the moment decision, but while I%26#39;m here..... we%26#39;re hoping to do some christmas shopping (shopping is cheaper than in Ireland). I don%26#39;t want to put you to any trouble as you%26#39;ve done so much already, but do you happen to know off hand which outlet is better - Kittery or Wrentham Village?

BMD

Just be careful with Venere. I just tried it out, as I haven%26#39;t seen this site before. The rate quoted, for example on the Omni Parker, was NOT the rate it came up with up when I plugged in dates. So I%26#39;m assuming it%26#39;s some kind of ';lowest'; rate, which it doesn%26#39;t describe. Also, weirdly, the map shows the Parker House totally in the wrong place - south of the Downtown Area. Not sure what that%26#39;s all about.

Anyway, always good to have more sites to check out. Thanks!!

Elderhostel uses the Midtown Hotel. Not fancy, few amenities, but clean and you absolutely can%26#39;t beat the location for the price. Right across from Prudential Center, T station a block away, Symphony Hall a block, few blocks to museums. And parking is free. Staff is very friendly.

New England Tour

My husband and I are planning a 1 week tour in New England and wanted to check if there were any, %26#39;must see%26#39; places/towns. We plan to start in Boston and do a round trip. Any comments would be well received.

New England Tour

From Boston, you could do day trips to Rockport, Gloucester, and/or Salem. All are on the Rockport Commuter rail - see mbta.com.

New England Tour

Thank you Alanm, but we are not planning to just stay in Boston. We are planning on flying to Boston and then will hire a car and drive through New England for about 1 week, then returning to Boston for our flight home.

We wanted to know if there were any particular places/towns etc that we should visit or miss, would really like to see covered bridges and I understand the Green and White Mountain areas are a must.

Check our GoList for a whirlwind itinerary and have a great time!

tripadvisor.com/GoListDetail-i12151-New_Engl…

Scenic ride to P'town

Taking a day trip from Middleboro to P%26#39;Town-family of six, spanning three generations. Would like a scenic ride thorugh the Cape. Is there a coastal road through any part where we can see views of the ocean as we%26#39;re driving?

P%26#39;Town is definitely our desitnation but is there any area along the way that%26#39;s a must see? How about a place to stop for shell hunting - but something that doesn%26#39;t involve too much walking? Any place to see seals? Again, not much walking from parking area to point of interest.

Will do Art%26#39;s dunes tour, spend some time at MacMillan%26#39;s Wharf and visit Commercial Street in P%26#39;town and go to Race Point Beach for the sunset. Is there anything else that we shouldn%26#39;t miss while there?

Thanks so much for your help.

Scenic ride to P'town

If you are only going for the day you will hardly have time to stop on the way. There is really no coastal road through the Cape, although you will get glimpses of the water on some parts depending which way you go. I never think of the Cape as a place for shells, although of course there are some. You can see seals off Monomoy Island in Chatham if you go out in the boats, but I doubt that you will have time for that.

You talk about spending time on MacMillan Wharf,do you mind if I ask why?

If walking is a problem for some of your group, are they going to manage or enjoy Commercial Street?

What is the driving time from Middleboro to Provincetown, that may help us to give you some advice.

Scenic ride to P'town

Thanks for your reply, Senior.

Drive time from Middleboro to Provincetown is 1.5 to 2 hours according to friends who have done it.

Don%26#39;t really know much about MacMillan%26#39;s Wharf - same friends said go there! lol What don%26#39;t I know - or need to know?

Walking on paved street is ok - just can%26#39;t walk long distances in the sand.

We have a very eclectic group - one has never seen the ocean-four have never been to the cape-two have limited experience with the Cape. Just trying to plan something to suit everyone and thought we%26#39;d find one or two quick things to see on the way to P%26#39;town.

Have another friend who spent a few hours in Provincetown last year - did the dunes tour and LOVED it and went to Race Point Beach for the sunset - said it was the most incredible she%26#39;s ever seen.

Any advice or suggestions will be truly appreciated. Thanks.

Although there is no road that will give you a lot of water views, the most scenic road is rte. 6A which follows the north shore of the Cape from the Sagamore Bridge to the Orleans Rotary. Taking it for its entire length could add half an hour to an hour to the trip time, but it is easy to cut back to rte. 6 at many points. After the Orleans rotary, you might want to take a detour through Wellfleet center. It%26#39;s a picturesque little town. You can also drive down to the harbor.

Shell hunting is not very good on the Cape, but you can look around at any beach you happen to be on. In Ptown, if you walk out Macmillan Wharf, consider visiting the Pirate Museum at the end. It sounds like a tourist trap but it is actually an educational archaeological exhibit of material recovered from the pirate ship Wydah, which sank off Cape Cod in the 1700s.

You said you have three generations on the trip. If you have youngsters that need to be tired out, visit the Pilgrim Monument and Museum. The Museum has a good local history collection and those that are up to it can climb all the way to the top of the monument, which has spectacular views of the Cape. Just a couple blocks east of town center is the Provincetown Public Library, which is probably the only public library in country (world?) with 5/8 scale model of a fishing schooner (the Dorthea Rose) in it. Just west a block or two is the Unitarian Universalist Church. It has a remarkable tromp l%26#39;oie interior. You can usually just walk in. When you go into the main church, realize that it is plain rectangular space. Nothing you see in there is real.

Thank you so much, wbp. Yours is just the kind of advice that I was looking for.

Adding a ½ hr to an hr onto the drive time won%26#39;t be a problem - but good to know that we can easily hop off.

Any advice for a place for good shell hunting off of the cape?

Will be sure to see the Pirate Museum, Pilgrim Monument %26amp; Museum, Library %26amp; Uniterian Church.

We%26#39;ll be in Mass in July and spending one day in each of several places-Plymouth, Boston, Gloucester/Rockport. Had hoped to do this last year but plans changed so we%26#39;re looking forward to it this year.

In Plymouth we%26#39;ll go to Plimouth Plantation, the rock, Mayflower and maybe the lobster boat. We%26#39;re looking forward to a whale watch in Gloucester (heard that July was great for sightings last year - hope it%26#39;s the same this year), the Fisherman%26#39;s Memorial, etc %26amp; Rockport.

We%26#39;re not firm on our day in Boston but possibilites include the Duck tour, Old Town Trolley, Fanueil Hall, Quincy Mkt, Cheers, Swan Boats, Freedom Trail, North End. I should probably be posting this on the Boston Forum but would it be better to ride the trolley and get on and off to see the sites of interest to us or ride the T? We%26#39;re not familiar w/ Boston. Staying in Middleboro so we%26#39;ll be driving into or close to the city - any suggestions for parking for the day?

Any other suggestions for any of the above are truly appreciated.

Can%26#39;t wait to arrive in Mass! Thanks again.

Boston / New England Trip

We are planning a vacation for 10 nights starting July 31st to Boston and other parts of New England. Thanks to the help of the forum we have booked 3 nights in the Lenox and then plan on visiting other places in New England. We are family of 5 with 18,13, and 7 year olds. I am looking at traveling up into Maine possibly Boothbay Harbor for whale watching. Still trying to figure out where else we should book hotels. Bearing in mind we want to keep it as interesting and fun as possible for all the family, what other suggestions do any of you have and what other places would be recommended for the other 7 night stay. Is 3 nights enough in Boston? Any further help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Boston / New England Trip

Check our GoList and feel free to send any questions - we have traveled in New England multiple times.

tripadvisor.com/GoListDetail-i12151-New_Engl鈥?/a>

Boston / New England Trip

I hope you want to go to Boothbay Harbor for reasons other than just whale watching, which you can do from Boston or Gloucester. That said, Boothbay has great charm and it gives you the sense of being very far from Boston, truly in Maine... of course, it is pretty far...

If you feel like a eye-popping outdoor vacation, drive up to Acadia National Park near Bangor Maine. It is outstanding! We%26#39;ve traveled with our children several times, different ages, different times of the year and it%26#39;s always been wonderful.

Park Rangers give guided tours, you can drive around on your own and enjoy the breathtaking views of waves crashing to the shore, you can call hike and my kids always loved exploring the tidal pools left when the tide goes out.

I%26#39;ve had some very memorable lobster stew there, too. Enjoy whatever you do.

Seafood market in Hyannis

I will be staying in Hyannis in June. I am looking for a place to pick up some seafood either raw or steamed for a beach picnic for four people. Any suggestions on a market or such?

Seafood market in Hyannis

Seven C%26#39;s on Rt. 28 in West Yarmouth is excellent. They%26#39;ll steam the lobsters for you ahead of time. The number is 508-775-0054. I go there all the time!

Suggested Reading?

I will be traveling to Boston in about a month and was wondering if anyone could suggest a good book to read to get a feel for the city (NOT a guidebook).

Suggested Reading?

Are you looking for fiction with Boston as a setting??

Suggested Reading?

If you are, you might like Robert Parker, or William Tapply.

A couple of nonfiction suggestions for you:

';Lost Boston'; by Jane Holtz Kay (University of Massachusetts Press: recently updated paperback edition was issued in 2006) - a marvelous, illustrated history of Boston chronicled through its physical development %26amp; architecture, but encompasses more -- and it is far more engagingly written -- than what mu ';thumbnail'; might suggest

';All Souls: A Family Story from Southie'; by Michael Patrick Macdonald (Ballantine paperback: 2000) - a gripping memoir which goes far in illuminating the once almost-entirely poor/working class, irish Catholic insular neighborhood of South Boston... the gangsterism of the Irish mafia, the political corruption %26amp; the racism, often violent (think Whitey Bulger %26amp; the 1975 school busing riots)... but with nuance %26amp; not without sympathy. Very readable, and very riveting.

Other nonfiction:

Common Ground by J. Anthony Lukas.

The Other Boston Busing Story by Susan Eaton

Fiction:

Caucasia by Danzy Senna.

I%26#39;d also recommend Dennis Lehane who has used Boston as a backdrop for all of his books. Many readers discovered him with ';Mystic River'; but I refer his earlier books beginning with ';A Drink Before The War';. Also known as the Patrick and Angie series, these books have a grittiness that Parker%26#39;s Spenser doesn%26#39;t. Both rely on tight dialogue and plotting, but Lehane%26#39;s voice is darker.

I would also include Wiliam Martin as a good local author. He has written ';Back Bay'; and its followup, ';Harvard Yard';, as well as ';Cape Cod'; and ';In the Shadow of the Moon';. ';Back Bay'; will seem a little dated to the reader, but the mystery plot is still good.

Thank for having posted this, dlee, and thanks for all the great suggestions. I will spend 2 weeks in Boston in summer too. Have already read the Patrick/Angie Lehane novels that I like very much.

You may add Henry James to your list, don%26#39;t you ? I just bought Henry James%26#39; Bostonians. Do you know if other of James%26#39; novels take place in Boston ?

Thanks for all the great suggestions. I was looking at both fiction and nonfiction books to help get more of an appreciation and feel for the city before I visit.

Legends Of Winter Hill by Jay Atkinson

Prince of Thieves by Chuck Hogan

Two gripping crime dramas--the first, non-fiction; the latter, fiction.

Falmouth or Hyannis?

Hi,

I have a couple of free Holiday Inn bonus nights and am torn between Holiday Inn Falmouth or Hyannis. We have two boys 4 and 8 and a rental car but would like to be able to see sights by walking from the hotel. Which town is more walkable and better for small children? Has anyone had experience with either Holiday Inn.

Cheers

Barbara from Toronto

Falmouth or Hyannis?

Either place would be fun and have lots to do.

Hyannis is bigger and has a large mall with movie theater. You can walk to the harbor and take a boat ride. Hyannis is more central to exploring the Cape by car.

I live in Falmouth and know you would love it there. There is a cute, small town which is fun to walk around from the Holiday Inn. You can also walk all around the lovely harbor easily from the motel. It is also very close to the Island Queen ferry to Martha%26#39;s Vineyard, a half hour boat ride away.

I%26#39;d recommend the following things to do with the boys in Falmouth:

-Take the Island Queen to Oak Bluffs on Martha%26#39;s Vineyard and walk around and explore that nice, vacation village. You could walk to the beach there as well.

-Drive to Woods Hole (a village in Falmouth) and go to the free aquarium and seal tank. Walk around and enjoy the ambiance.

-Rent bikes in Town and ride the Shining Sea bikepath from Falmouth to Woods Hole...or you can just walk on the bikepath along the ocean.

-Drive to Nobska Lighthouse, park and take in the amazing sea vista.

-Walk downtown from your hotel and get an ice cream at Ben and Bills in the Falmouth Village. There are many little shops and restaurants to which you can walk in Falmouth.

Have fun.

Grampy

Falmouth or Hyannis?

Grampy, love your username :-)

Reminds me of my Dad, our boys call him Grampy. He%26#39;ll be celebrating his 69th b-day in August and he can run circles around me, LOL ;-)

Naomi :-)

Hoo Boy!

I have read and re-read your post several times. From your few sentences, I too am torn.

First, I%26#39;m in Falmouth and I%26#39;m not familiar with the Holiday Inn in Hyannis. But I am familiar with 4 and 8 year old boys, and I%26#39;m familiar with Hyannis.

Looking at the Hyannis location, and knowing the Falmouth location, neither one is walking distance to anything for 4 and 8 year olds. You%26#39;re going to have to drive first, then walk.

In general, Mid-Cape (Hyannis) is the commercial center of the Cape. All the chain-restaurants, the big mall, the bar and after-hours bar-scene and all the honky-tonk.

Falmouth has plenty to see and do, and is a LITTLE sleepier than Hyannis.

Considering your two young children, I am going to encourage Falmouth over Hyannis. Bear with me over the next few days or a week or so, and I%26#39;ll send many of the Falmouth activities much more suitable for tykes that will also be fun for mom and dad.

Here%26#39;s one just off the top of my head, the Woods Hole Aquarium. The Harbor Seals live in the tank out front, you can visit them anytime day or night. If you catch the schedule right, be there at feeding time, it%26#39;s the icing on the cake. There is a touch-tank, perfectly safe for all ages, and up close and personal exhibits. Best of all, it%26#39;s free! Just awesome for the kids! website: http://www.nefsc.noaa.gov/nefsc/aquarium/

I%26#39;ll post more in a few days, in the meantime have a look at the Town of Falmouth website; http://www.town.falmouth.ma.us/index.php, the Visitor section has a lot of stuff to look at.

How about Martha%26#39;s Vineyard? Are you interested for a day trip? Easily do-able for pretty short money.

You and your boys will be hearing from me,

Harry

Feel free to e-mail me direct at highseasharry at yahoo.com

Thanks for all your suggestions. I%26#39;m leaning towards saving my Holiday Inn bonus nights and booking at the Beach Breeze Inn.

I%26#39;ve just read about greenheads on the beach. They sound nasty! I hope these biting insects will be gone by mid-August!

The aquarium sounds great- I%26#39;d also love to go on a whale watcing trip even though my husband gets seasick. I think I like the sound of Falmouth over Hyannis - if we want any excitement we can always hop on over to the mall!

Cheers

Barbara

new england trip

My husband and I will be traveling to the New England states

oct 25th thru the 30th. We are staying in the Nantasket Beach area but are looking for advice on ';must see'; places we should visit while in the new england states. Also where can we get an awesome lobster roll ?? thanks much

new england trip

Nantasket is a little south of Boston. My recommendation would be at least a couple of days in Boston itself and perhaps a trip down to Newport to see the mansions. You are also reasonably close to Plymouth, so a side trip there to see the Mayflower and Plimouth Plantation would seem to make sense.

new england trip

The best lobster roll I%26#39;ve had in Boston was actually at this dive in Harvard Sqare called Charlie%26#39;s Kitchen. You can get the double lobster roll special. Huge chunks of lobster, great taste and not too pricey. I%26#39;ve been to places that were nice and they didn%26#39;t have a lobster roll nearly as good as the one I had there. At night it%26#39;s sort of a loud, lively young persons place but it%26#39;s super quiet during the day--maybe explore Cambridge when you come to Boston and try it out?

Look, they even mentioned it on The Phoenix (Free Local Newspaper) 50 best meals under 10$

http://thephoenix.com/x/restaurantsunder20/

Another place with acceptional seafood (also listed on that link I just posted) is the Barking Crab--it%26#39;s more of a summer staple, but it should be open during the fall season, too. Their lobster roll is good, I hear.

While you%26#39;re in New England I would stay/visit for at least 2 days in Boston then maybe take a side trip to Newport Mansions and the Vineyard there and then maybe another side trip to Plimouth Plantation and Salem (You can see both in one day) Salem should be a whole lot of fun during the whole Halloween season and Plimouth Plantation is very fitting for the whole ';New England'; feel of things. The Go Boston Card also includes some attractions in Boston and Newport and Salem--so you might want to look at that website for the card or just to get an idea what things you can do once you get to the city.

Charlie%26#39;s Kitchen is definately worth a trip if you are in Harvard Square.

For an awesome lobster roll (and an even better clam roll) try the Hingham Lobster Pound in on Rt. 3A in Hingham (next town over from Hull, where Nantasket beach is.) It%26#39;s just a clam shack though - no real seating and very, very informal - so it%26#39;s all about the food. Take your lobster roll to go an make a picnic of it across the street at the harbor.

Hi,

I second the Hingham Lobster Pound. Fantastic food and a real New England atmosphere. Easy to get to, right on Route 3A just before Hingham center.

thanks to all for the responses, I cannot wait to experience

Hingham Lobster Pound, sounds perfect .

If you enjoy Halloween, then a visit to Salem preferably on Halloween weekend but perhaps not on Halloween itself (due to the enormous crowds) is an experience. It is the largest Hallowen experience in the world and most everyone is in costume. You can access Salem from Rte. 128 North to Route 114 East or take the commuter rail from North Station. (www.mbta.com).

www.hauntedhappenings.com

If you enjoy Halloween, then a visit to Salem preferably on Halloween weekend but perhaps not on Halloween itself (due to the enormous crowds) is an experience. It is the largest Hallowen experience in the world and most everyone is in costume. You can access Salem from Rte. 128 North to Route 114 East or take the commuter rail from North Station. (www.mbta.com).

www.hauntedhappenings.com

Connieu, could you give us a little more info about your interests and budget? There is so much to experience in my wonderful city that 4-5 days can%26#39;t do it justice - you should target what you%26#39;re most interested in. History? Museums? Seaside? Shopping?

We have absolutely first class museums - Art, Science, Children%26#39;s. The North End and Freedom Trail are musts for history buffs. We also have the Kennedy Presidential Library. The waterfront area is always bustling... and there%26#39;s great restaurants there. Like a raw bar? Visit the nation%26#39;s oldest operating restaurant: Union Oyster House (don%26#39;t bother having dinner there, though - there%26#39;s better choices.)

Unfortunately, Cape Cod pretty much closes down after Columbus Day (and that%26#39;s the way the locals like it). Right now is my favorite time of year there if you ever plan a return visit.

I%26#39;m assuming you%26#39;ve got relatives or some other reason to stay in Nantasket - it%26#39;s certainly not my first choice. But there are wonderful dining choices nearby on the South Shore.

Enjoy!

S %26amp; L, as we have never been to the east coast before we would like to experience as much of the seashore as possible. We would like very much to take in as much historical venues as possible.

I have heard the Plymouth plantation is great. We were given the Nantasket area as a great place to stay by friends that have visited a few times, not knowing any better, we took that advice. Hopefully we can make the best of it. thanks for your info and any more you can give.connie u

beaches in new englad

hi everyone- i am planning a day (maybe overnight) trip to the beach. i am in boston and do not have a car so i was trying to find some nice place in the new englad area i could reach by bus. any suggestion????

i wanted to go to martha%26#39;s vyneyard ot nuntuket but they are unconvenient for a day trip and there hotels/B%26amp;B are very expensive.

where should I go instead? i am open to any suggestion. (i have already been at cape cod).

Thanks to all

jello

beaches in new englad

Hi,

If you don%26#39;t want to go to P-town, which is easy to get to via ferry and has great beaches, you could go to Crane%26#39;s Beach in Ipswich. There%26#39;s a commuter rail train from North Station and then they have a connecting bus to the beach. Right now, it%26#39;s only on Saturday I think:

http://www.ipswichessexexplorer.com/

You can easily get to Revere Beach, which doesn%26#39;t really compare to the beaches further away, but it%26#39;s not too bad since it was recently renovated. Just take the Blue Line to the Revere Beach stop.

There%26#39;s also a nice beach called Singing Beach, which is in Manchester-by-the-Sea. It%26#39;s about a half mile walk from the train station to the beach.

I think that the Amtrak Downeaster train to Portland, stops near the NH shore, not far from Hampton Beach. You can probably get a taxi from the station, or it might even be walking distance to the beach.

beaches in new englad

thanks beantown man. I am going to go to singing beach in manchester by the sea. i have seen some pictures online and it looks very nice. however, i have read that it is not free to get on the beach. someone mentioned $25...???? is that true??

thanks again

jello

In general, the beaches in Massachusetts are free, if you will, but parking is how they collect fees. Since you aren%26#39;t driving, you shouldn%26#39;t have this issue. Now, we need someone to specifically discuss Singing Beach%26#39;s situation.

So, every summer my bf and I have taken a few day trips via T to the beaches around the area. I would recommend Singing Beach.

When you take the T to Singing Beach, you pay I believe $3-5 to enter (sorry, it%26#39;s been awhile since I went). I don%26#39;t think it%26#39;s much more than that. Follow the crowds to the right when you get off the T and it%26#39;s a short walk (1/2 mile)... there%26#39;s a little ';house'; with bathrooms and changing rooms, and you pay there.

If you%26#39;re in P-town, take ';The Breeze'; shuttle to the beach. When I first moved here, my bf and I walked from town, and it was a long walk...

I haven%26#39;t been to Crane yet (that%26#39;s this year%26#39;s plan) but if you%26#39;re taking the T, definitely don%26#39;t go to Gloucester to get to Good Harbor... it%26#39;s also a long walk in the sun.

Beantownman,

The Downeaster stops at Old Orchard Beach in Maine as well. Has anyone been? I was thinking of going up there last year, and then we decided not to... I%26#39;ve read it%26#39;s a ';honky-tonk'; beach and was wondering if it%26#39;s ';worth'; the train ride...

Thanks!

Hi Carab,

My brother and Sister-in-Law go to Old Orchard Beach every year, with my nephews, and they say that they really love it. It is a very honky-tonk place, though. It%26#39;s like Coney Island used to be, with an active boardwalk and tacky shops and such. But, the beach itself is supposed to be very nice (although the water is COLD). If you like that kind of beach atmosphere, it might be perfect.

Singing Beach is the exact opposite of that. There%26#39;s nothing much around it, and there are lots of noise ordinances, etc, that keep it pretty quiet.

Old Orchard is an excellent beach about 6 mi. long with great sand. Thr pier area is where the stores are, so you can certainly stay clear of that if you like.

Thanks to both for your feedback. I think I%26#39;ll try to check it out before I move out to the Midwest later this summer...

Don%26#39;t forget about Gloucester%26#39;s Good Harbor Beach, and Rockport%26#39;s Long Beach. The Commuter Rail travels to Rockport.

u could also take the train to newburyport (1 hr) then call seaport taxi and get to plum island which isnt far -- u could also rent a bike and bike around

鈥air.com/oaries/localattitude/plumwalk.htm

u%26#39;d need a cell phone to get back tho if u take a taxi ... more fun if u go with friends... newburyport is fun to kick around in on saturdays

Lobster Rolls and Eating Out

What is your favorite Lobster Roll and Price? Mobydicks is 17.99 and filled to the top (not overflowing) with meat but very pricey. Fisherman%26#39;s Friends is 16.50 and more filled and more to my liking. Osterville Two at Millway in Barnstable Harbour is 15.00 and has more filler. Last Oct. we had a lobster roll at Summer Shack. it was 22.00 and not as full as Raw Bar (the best IMHO on Cape)...

Lobster Rolls and Eating Out

OK, sacrilege, I know, but in recent summers, McDonald%26#39;s has had them for about $3-$4 in the resort towns, and I saw them in Shaw%26#39;s supermarkets for $3.99, last summer, and $4.59 recently. No filler in any of the above, aside from a little mayo, and almost all claw meat, in all cases. They aren%26#39;t ';boats';, to be sure, but good volume for the price, and great for a ';fix'; if you don%26#39;t want to pay a claw and a tail (or an arm and a leg -- e.g., $15+).

Keep in mind that the jury%26#39;s really out everywhere this summer, as prices have spiked amazingly in recent months.

Lobster Rolls and Eating Out

I read in the Harwich Oracle that the hike in lobster prices is due to a change in migration patterns.

Shaws Supermarket on West Main Street in Hyannis makes a knockout lobster roll for under $5.00. They sometimes have them prepackaged in the display case, but go to the deli counter and ask them to make it for you fresh and they pile on the lobster....an amazing bargain.

Thanks but no thanks (smile). The whole fun of eating lobster rolls is at some clam shack place with Cape Cod ambiance. I might as well buy the darn meat and make one at home..now that%26#39;s another idea. Thanks all.

It%26#39;s called the Chartroom in Cataumet, not far from Falmouth. It%26#39;s open from mid May to mid October and we finally had one here late last summer; because we heard SO much about them from family that live in the Falmouth area.

This restaurant is in the Kingman Marina Yacht Ctr. in Cataumet and it%26#39;s without a doubt, the best lobster roll I%26#39;ve ever had in my entire short life on this planet.

We%26#39;re fussy with lobster too; where we live within driving distance from the coast of Maine and usually prefer their lobster and that%26#39;s IT for years for us; well, NOT any more. Some day if you ever get the chance down at ';Ole Cape Cod'; take a ride to this side of the Cape for one of their lobster rolls. They%26#39;re JUST awesome here.

The Chartroom

One Shipyard Ln

Cataumet, MA 02534

+1 508 563 5350

Open Hours

Lunch: Daily 11:30a-3p; Dinner: Daily 5:30p-10p

We rent a cottage in Centerville every summer and shop at the aforementioned Shaws on West Main Street. We discovered their amazing, low priced lobster rolls last year and agree that they should be ordered fresh at the deli. We also agree that a lobster roll needs to be enjoyed in classic Cape Cod surroundings. We may have found a solution for you. We`ll pick up the lobster rolls at Shaws, then drive the 2.5 miles to Baxters (baxterscapecod.com their lobster roll is currently $18.99). We`ll go to the counter and order soft drinks, their great onion rings and sweet potato fries then go out on the deck overlooking Hyannis Harbor and enjoy it all. No one ever notices or seems to care and you`ve saved $14 per lobster roll.

Not to hijack this thread, but... While we%26#39;re ';there'; at the Chartroom in Cataumet, it also has the very best swordfish steak that I%26#39;ve ever tasted. Tender as butter, and 1 1/2'; thick.

OHHH, I%26#39;ll have to remember that one; swordfish is our favorite!

We%26#39;re going to be checking out that Chart room again in July, thanks for the tip!

The Chart Room is good and also has very nice views, especially from outside where you%26#39;ll likely be waiting most times. But there are many adirondacks %26amp; tables so settle in with a cape codder.

If you are really just interested in lobster, slightly off cape, go to Gateway Tavern in Wareham on RT 6. Largest lobster roll eva.

$22.95, but worth every penny.

The Beachcomber in Wellfleet has great lobster rolls. Don%26#39;t remember the price but a lobster roll in one hand, a cold one in the other while gazing out at the ocean from a bar stool is down right priceless!

Please weave my intinery! First trip to Cape Cod

Hi,

I am planning to have a vacation to Cape Cod this july for 4 day 3 nights (on weekdays!!).

After some study, I decided to take a whale watching tour, a bike tour , going beaches, and a one-day trip to either MV or Nantucket.

Planning to stay near Provincetown for two days for around $250 and on Nantucket(or MV) for about $400-$500 luxurious(hopefully) romantic (not necessarily, but need some atmosphere ) place for one night.

There are so so many bike trails and beaches, can somebody help to finish up my itinery???? including possible hotel suggestions??

I am bringing my car and my whole family(total 4) is coming with me.

Thanks!!!!!! Any help would be greatly appreciated~

Please weave my intinery! First trip to Cape Cod

P-Town and the launches to the ferries are pretty far apart: you’d be looking at two hours in the car each way and that’s not including any traffic (even on weekdays July is very busy). For such a short trip all that driving seems like too much to me. I’ve done it before and I was tired before I got there.

I’d do one of the other for your short trip, P-Town or the island, or I’d split the difference and go for the more scenic, remote Outer Cape – there are some more luxurious B%26amp;Bs out there and that sounds like the thing to do. From the Outer Cape an afternoon out in P-Town is just a short drive and you can do that whale watch (Dolphin Fleet’s the best) and bike tour easily. And any of the beaches on the Outer Cape are going to be spectacular – particularly the ocean beaches in Wellfleet. There are also some amazing bike trails out there.

Don’t try to over plan this. Once you get your hotel reservations set you really can let the weather and your mood dictate what you do from day to day. But I would suggest that you have a guide book with you to help out with all the specifics (Kim Grant’s is best).

Please weave my intinery! First trip to Cape Cod

See some sites, but take some time to relax and enjoy the beach.

Does sound like alot for a short time. I%26#39;d say either skip Ptown or skip going to islands, there really isn%26#39;t time for both. FYI, You said you would have a car, you are not likely going to be able to take it to either island at this point unless you already have made a reservation. The auto reservations book up early in the summer.

Sometime, you can wait, but probably not the best way to spend a vacation.

cape cod cluless

Hi my family and I are planign a trip to cape cod and have no idea which part of the cape will be condusive to our large family of 7 having varying tastes and vacation ideals. My brother is 7 and the eldest of us sisters is about 27 so we cannot be too secluded out yet need a nice place to stay over the weekend and enjoy the vicinity.

I was wondering if you could please assist as to whether Dennis port would be the spot for us or surrounding towns and things we could perhaps do together ?

Thank you so much for your help is advance.

Mehreen

cape cod cluless

Hi Mehreen-

Cape Cod is very family friendly. I%26#39;d say anyplace on mid-cape would work. My mother-in-law has a house in Orleans that we%26#39;ve been going to for nearly 25 years now, so I have more knowledge about this area of the Cape than others.

Orleans/Chatham are two good towns that offer plenty for all ages.

Orleans has:

-the National Seashore-beaches, biking paths and nature trails.

-Plenty of shopping and dining (with several establishments offering live entertainment)

-Nauset (ocean) and Skaket (bayside) beaches. Your 7-year-old brother would probably love searching for minnows and hermit crabs at Skaket when it is low tide.

-Orleans Playhouse-offering a production every summer.

-Miniature golf by the Orleans Rotary

-Can rent kayaks and canoes

-Listen to the Monday night concert at the bandstand at Nauset Beach

-Nauset Middle School and/or Snow%26#39;s Library often have exhibits and craft shows.

Nearby in Brewster: Nickerson State Park-for biking, fishing, nature trails

Nearby Harwichport- Go Karts

Nearby Wellfleet-Drive-in movie theatre. Also, Beachcomber on Cahoon Hollow Road. Awesome Lobster Rolls, ocean views, video games for the kids and live music.

Farther afield-Provincetown (about a 40 minute drive from Orleans) for whalewatching, people watching, shopping and dining.

Chatham-

-Lots of dining, shopping and nightlife options

-South Beach (need to take a boat to get there)

-Stage Harbor tours-seal sightings to Monomoy

-Biking through town

-Close to Hyannis, which has the JFK museum, plenty of shopping, dining, enterainment, Old Cape Cod Railroad.

Hope this helps.

cape cod cluless

The outer Cape is beautiful too but you may not enjoy the bone-chilling Atlantic Ocean. The warmest water is Nantucket Sound. Second to that is Cape Cod Bay.

Since you are ony staying the weekend you WOULD be able to pack in a lot of fun if you stay mid-Cape.

When you arrive you%26#39;ll find an information booth if you just pull off the road (Rt. 6 not 6A) after Hyannis but before Yarmouth. Among other things be sure to pick up Cape Week (www.capeweek.com) as well as the booklets for the various towns where you%26#39;ll stay or visit. Naturally you are looking at all the websites too.

hydrocortisone cream

looking for a short-term apartment in Boston

We%26#39;re going to be in Boston on Memorial Day weekend and the weekend after. We%26#39;re a family of 3 and I%26#39;d prefer to rent a small apartment because it%26#39;s cheaper and I%26#39;d appreciate having a kitchen. Cambridge would be nice but I can%26#39;t find much there. How about downtown, what are the neighborhoods to look for? Is South End OK?

I%26#39;ve found some apartments at bnbboston.com, has anyone rented from them? Any other suggestions would be welcome.

looking for a short-term apartment in Boston

Bed %26amp; Breakfast Associates Bay Colony, the reservations service at the URL you gave, have been in operation for a fair number of years and enjoy a good reputation... e.g., there have been no complaints filed against it with the Better Business Bureau in the past 3 years -- which is pretty darned impressive, especially for a business where its customers are buying its ';products'; sight unseen. It%26#39;s the outfit to which I would have referred you if you weren%26#39;t already considering it.

But if you%26#39;re uneasy %26amp; would like more of a ';known quantity';, how about one of the Residence Inns? Their weekend rates may be within your price range, and there is one in Cambridge too :-)

looking for a short-term apartment in Boston

We rented in the Back Bay area which is where I would recommend - NOT South End and NOT Downtown.

However, we used the Bed %26amp; Breakfast Agency of Boston and whilst the apartment was upmarket the kitchen was infested with cockroaches and the company overcharged on my credit card. After 3 months I have no apology and no refund of the overcharge.

Check out Lonely Planet reviews and Massvacation websites.

It%26#39;s a great city to visit. Good luck.

Beaches in Falmouth

Is parking in Falmouth midweek in August difficult/expensive?

If we parked at Falmouth Mall and took the Woods Hole Trolley would we be able to visit the town and any beaches without our car

Can you walk to any of the beaches in Falmouth from the town?

Appreciate any advice...

Beaches in Falmouth

Parking in Falmouth is always difficult. Beach parking is usually reserved for residents, except Old Silver Beach and Menhaunt beach, which have daily parking. From in-town, you could walk to Surf Drive beach. It%26#39;s a decent beach with a snack bar and bath facilities. It is too far to walk to the beach from the mall. Catching the trolley is a nice option. I don%26#39;t know if they stop at the beach, but it is worth the ride to Woods Hole, where parking is even in shorter supply than in-town. Good luck.

Suggestions for Couple from Colorado

Hi-

Ignore my screen name -- it was a joke about an all girls trip to Cancun!

I want to go to Cape Cod so bad, and I have no idea why!!! My in-laws are going to watch the kids Sept. 2-6 or so and I want a getaway. Please help me with where to stay. Thinking about a nice B%26amp;B. Would love a water view and ability to walk to shops and restaurants. My hubby only wants to relax and not think. He wants a cruise, but I want Cape Cod!!! We are clueless, and will get a book, but want your advice!

Thanks!

Suggestions for Couple from Colorado

I bugged my husband for almost 20 years that I wanted to do the B%26amp;B%26#39;s of New England sometime in my life and I had no idea why!!

For our first visit I chose...Kennebunkport, Newport and the Cape. Most of my research was done by internet...plugged in things like small luxury inns and B%26amp;B%26#39;s. For the Cape I first found The Whalewalk Inn in Eastham but after reading issues of Cape Cod Life magazines I realized Chatham had the stores and restaurants that were more our taste and style. We then booked the Captain%26#39;s House Inn and fell in love with the feeling of the town. There are lots of books etc. that will help you find the town that suits you and to get the feeling of being on a cruise, I highly suggest a meal at Ocean House in Dennisport!

Suggestions for Couple from Colorado

Kim Grant%26#39;s Explorer%26#39;s Guide is the most comprehensive Cape Cod Guidebook and the 7th edition is her latest...hot off the press. For an in-town location Chatham is the place to be but the Captain%26#39;s House is a bit of a walk to town. For the best ocean view, small luxury B+B we stay at the Fort Hill Bed and Breakfast in the National Seashore in Eastham. www.forthillbedandbreakfast. Staying in the cottage is like having your own cape Cod retreat with none of the work! If you find a spot with helpful innkeepers, you can both get your dream vacation because they will help you find everything you want without the anxiety of planning ahead or stressing to find neat spots.

Thanks for your replies! I was up to 1 am last night looking at all of this!

BchBum - I looked up the Captain%26#39;s House on the web, and it looks amazing! Exactly what we would love, and Chatham looks great! Another place that seems similar is Brewster%26#39;s by the Sea.

Yellowbird, Forthill looks incredible as well, and great for peace and quiet. How far out is it from a place to stroll along the shops, etc?

I also found a place called Inn on the Sound that looks great.

So with weary eyes, I am down to those 4 -- any more comments on these and their surrounding areas??

THANKS!

In a perfect world I would buy the Fort Hill B%26amp;B and put it in Chatham! The best of both peace and nature in a upscale town.

Until then you will have to chose....they are only 12 miles or so apart connected by a picturesque drive along route 28.

Captain%26#39;s House Inn has been under new management since we were there. We loved both our rooms upstairs in the main house and the sweet and savory breakfasts followed by a traditional afternoon English tea. Air conditioning and a pool were a plus. It is a schlep into town but walkable to the Chatham Bars Inn along Shore Rd. Food and home decor shopping are always #1 when I travel and Chatham fits our bill.

Love the antique stores along Rte.6a and also stayed in Brewster By the Sea. Hosts were very nice...room decor was so so...area ok ...Brewster Fish House to die for.

Not a huge fan of the mid cape area if that is where your other choice is...

Working on eating my way through more restaurants from Orleans to P-town this summer. Would suggest a stay in Wellfleet however, haven%26#39;t seen any upscale inns yet.

Well aside from the obvious difference in locations (one is on Rt. 28 near a busy but quant resort town while the other is in the National Seashore, a quiet historic area a few minutes drive from Orleans) here are a few more differences between the Captain%26#39;s House Inn and Fort Hill Bed and Breakfast.

Captain%26#39;s House...you can walk to the main town of Chatham but it is a long walk. You can drive to Orleans (15 minutes), Wellfleet (30 minutes) or Provincetown (50 minutes). Ocean beaches are on Pleasant Bay or Nantucket Sound.

Fort Hill...you must drive to Orleans (3 minutes), Chatham (20 minutes), Wellfleet (10 minutes), or Provincetown (30 minutes) but you can walk out the door to meadows and ocean views or visit the Captain Penniman House across the lane. Ocean beaches are on Atlantic Ocean.

Captain%26#39;s House..lovely rooms or suites (some with Jacuzzi) with full breakfast and the bonus of afternoon tea. Main House is circa 1839 with newer, shared accommodations in the Carriage house. Some have garden views. Very gracious property.

Fort Hill...lovely suites or cottage with ocean view. Full breakfast. Cottage has its own wet-bar/kitchen for making snacks. Main house is on National Historic Register circa 1864. Cottage is newer and is totally private. Cottage has private gardens, suites have shared gardens and screen house with ocean view. Lots of private space.

Captain%26#39;s House has 16 accommodations from $250 to $425 +9.7% room tax + tip for housekeeper

Fort Hill has 3 accommodations from $235-$325. No tax or tip

Whew! Does that help? You can%26#39;t go wrong with either one...it%26#39;s just a matter of where you will fulfill your dream. In a nutshell...one B+B is in a historic town and one is in a Historic Rural Area.

WOW--thanks you two! Yes, that really helps :)

What a fun dilemma to have!

Hopefully I will be able to visit more than once!

Thanks!!

Instead of driving to everywhere, you could rent bikes and save on gas and frustrating traffic.

We were all over Cape Cod two summers ago (stayed in Orleans in a lovely cottage by a pond) and we loved Provincetown the best.

Any of these attractions not worth the cost of admission?

Here are some attractions that I hope to do with my family this June on the Cape. (I%26#39;m a bit of an over planner). Are there any local coupons to be found for any of these places? If so, where can I get them?

Also, are any of these places not worth the cost of admission? Here%26#39;s my list and the approx. cost of admission for my family of 5.

1. Plimoth Plantation: $30 (teacher appreciation discount)

2.Pirate Cruise, Hyannis: $100 (any discounts available for this one?)

3.Pirate%26#39;s Cove Mini Golf: $30 (any discounts?)

4. Martha’s Vineyard ferry: $53 (parking and tix from Wood%26#39;s Hole)

5. Cape Cod Children’s Museum $30 (discounts? Worth it?)

6. Pilgrim Hall $16 (discount? Worth it?)

7. Whale watching out of Provincetown $90 (PortuguesePrincess family discount)

8.JFK Museum $10

9. Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art$25 (Done on the day we head back home)

10. Basket Ball Hall of Fame $60(Done of the day we head back home) So pricey! Worth it? Coupons?

Any of these attractions not worth the cost of admission?

Definitely go to Plimoth Plantation, Pilgrim Hall %26amp; whale watching.

Any of these attractions not worth the cost of admission?

I agree. How many kids will you have going whalewatching? You might find the Dolphin fleet less expensive with kids under 12 tickets at $22 each and an additional $3.00 discount per ticket if you book on-line or stay at an inn with discount coupons. whalewatch.com/dolphinfleet/tickets/whalewat…

Keep in mind that the natural environment is the main attraction on Cape Cod so you may not need the museums. Just take the kids to the beach or go to some of the free activities offered by the National Seashore park rangers. www.nps.gov/caco

May I suggest going on the pirate cruise right outta Plymouth, especially if you visit Plimoth Plantation.

http://www.lobstertalesinc.com/pirate.html

$16 per person

We did that a few years ago with our boys, lots of fun! :-)

Naomi

Ditto to yellowbird%26#39;s comments, although if you%26#39;re interested in museums, I%26#39;d also recommend the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster, which is not on your list.

Great suggestions.

The ages of my kids are 4, 6 and 6. I%26#39;ve found that the Portuguese Princess doesn%26#39;t charge for 4 year olds and the others do so that with the family discount makes it cheaper for us.

I do enjoy museums but I don%26#39;t want to go to them just because they%26#39;re there. If they%26#39;re especially good or unusual then they%26#39;re worth the trip.

Do you think the Museum of Natural History in Cape Cod is worth it? What about the Children%26#39;s Museum? We were at the Children%26#39;s Museum in Boston right before they closed for remodeling and I was%26#39;t that impressed although the kids did enjoy themselves.

Taking the Pirate Cruise out of Plymouth will save us $20! :)

Great, $20 here %26amp; $20 there adds up :-)

You%26#39;re going to have a great time, that%26#39;s for sure!

Naomi

Woods Hole Science Aquarium (FREE, donations welcome)

http://www.nefsc.noaa.gov/nefsc/aquarium/

I know nothing about the Children%26#39;s Museum , but I would concentrate on things that are unique to the Cape, which is why I recommended the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. They have a touch tank of marine animals and lots of information about the flora and fauna of the Cape. I think the kids would love it.

Regarding the whale watches:

The Dolphin Fleet is attached to a non-profit agency that studies whales over a long period. After sighting a whale and studying it%26#39;s fluke patten the students and scientists on board will be able to identify that particular whale and it%26#39;s family. Knowing a history of the whales you%26#39;re looking at (that this one was caught in a net last year or that one lost a calf the year before or what have you) makes the whale watch feel personal and you leave feeling like you know these animals. My dad used to take me on one of these watches every year when I was a kid and it was always a trip highlight.

Up until a few years ago I had only ever been on the Dolphin Fleet but one of those Portuguese Princess discounts lured me in. Never again. Portuguese Princess is a sighting cruise. Your guide will be able to talk about the basics that you might read in an encyclopedia. You%26#39;ll know you%26#39;re looking a humpback whale but that%26#39;s all you%26#39;ll know.

If the Dolphin Fleet costs more it%26#39;s well worth the price - and I%26#39;d highly suggest it over anything else on your list. The Portuguese Princess was just a sightseeing tour and, in my opinion, not worth the price they charge.

I enthusiastically endorse the previous recommendations for Pllmoth Plantation, whale watching (and yep, I too think the Dolphin Fleet is better), the Cape Cod Natural History Museum -- and last, but far from least -- activities/family-friendly programs led by the National Park Service Rangers at the CC Seashore Park (e.g., evening storytelling around a fire on the beach); in my experience, anything the NPS does is fabulous!

Not having been on a Pirate Cruise, I can%26#39;t comment on that, but I think (and forgive me if that sounds heretical) that the JFK Museum is a bit of yawn for adults, so unless they%26#39;ve improved markedly in recent years, I certainly wouldn%26#39;t suggest it for kids of that age, nor do I think you all would find Pilgrim Hall especially noteworthy. And much as I love the Vineyard, I wouldn%26#39;t bother making a day trip there with young ones (and when they%26#39;re older, I%26#39;d suggest Nantucket makes a better day trip than the Vineyard -- more to see/do within easy access of the docks).

Here are some other ideas for you which may or may not be convenient depending on where you%26#39;ll be staying:

** the ';trampoline park'; and/or GoKart track (located next to each other) in Harwich -- followed by a frosty mug of root beer at the A%26amp;W down the road

** watching the commercial fishing boats unload their cargo at the Fish Pier in Chatham

** lunch at Chatham%26#39;s little municipal airport where you can watch private planes take off %26amp; land while you eat

** the not-to-be-missed, drive-in movie theatre in Wellfleet -- they%26#39;re such a rarity nowadays that your kids will long remember an evening there!

And while I generally share your enthusiasm for pre-planning %26amp; taking in local sights/attractions, please do allow time for just beaching it, playing board/card games at night and some nuthin%26#39;. Years later, it%26#39;s the simplest pleasures... like exploring tidal pools, romping in the waves, walking on the beach at night... that my son remembers most fondly about his childhood Cape vacations :-)

Seaside Inn Shore Road North Truro

Has anyone been there or seen it?

I think it was fomerly Seaside Village its on 482 Shore Road.

Anyhow does anyone have any comments?

Really appreciate it.

Thanks

Carrie

Seaside Inn Shore Road North Truro

Hello Carrie,

I stayed at the Seaside last year, and would definately go back.

The motel is located right on the beach, and you get a great view of the changing tides.

There is access to BBQs, furnished patio and hot tub.

The rooms are clean and provide a great view of the ocean.

The price is excellent compared to the other properties in this area.

You could also check out the Cape view motel. It is not on the water but is on the bluff and you have an excellent view. It is a little cheaper than the Seaside.

Seaside Inn Shore Road North Truro

These folks are thieves and stole our deposit. Phone number has been disconnected as well as email address.

STAY AWAY!

Whale Watching

My wife and I would like to go whale watching during the last weekend in July. Is this a good time or bad time to try this?

Thanks in advance for your comments.

Whale Watching

Absolutely, the best time is in the summer. To avoid crowds, go during the week rather than a weekend if you can do so. To spend the longest time at the whales%26#39; feeding grounds due to proximity, depart from Gloucester (Cape Ann), or Provincetown, (Cape Cod). There are also two reputable companies at the Boston waterfront. Departing from Boston is a longer trip out and return. Use Google to find various whale watching tour businesses by searching on ';whale watching'; with either (Gloucester, MA, Provincetown, MA or Boston, MA).

Whale Watching

You should put boston harbor islands on your list as well. Just ask the people in the Whale watching.

If you are staying in Boston then I recommend that you depart there as well for your whale watch or at least take the fast ferry to Provincetown and then embark on one of the local tours there. You do not want to drive to Provincetown just for that purpose. I believe the aquarium is now offering some whale watches on faster boats. This would be the ideal from Boston, as it is a trip to get out to Stellwagen Bank where the whales feed.

I have gone on a whale watch every year for the last 23 or more and have never been disappointed. I try to go on a calm, warm day in July. You are choosing the best time. For the best experience I would plan to go on a weekday. I always go on the morning trip. Don%26#39;t know why except that I am a morning person.

Except for one year (when we were in Provincetown and went from there) I always take the Yankee Fleet out of Gloucester. Always see lots of whales and they have a good guide who talks about the whales you see (and hope to see). Did you know that whales can be identified by the designs on their bodies?

Have a wonderful time and afterwards we always have a nice lunch in the restaurant attached to the wharf where we can look out the window at the next boat leaving! Enjoy yourselves.

There are loads of whale watching options. Long Wharf (by the Aquarium) has boats and...your concierge will have phone numbers, etc. If you want to see whales, they%26#39;re out there.

You might also take the harbor islands option if it%26#39;s not so much whales as a boat ride you%26#39;re looking for. Georges Island is great fun. It%26#39;s a half hour ride out. You wander this historic island with a fort and hiking paths and then catch the boat back. Other boat companies give you island tours that dont%26#39; involve a stop but rather a trip around the harbor.

The whale watch cruises go way out to where the whales are.

July is the best time to go. Prepare for all conditions: a windbreaker (yes, even in July) and sunscreen are a must. It%26#39;s%26#39; also a good idea to pack a few drinks in your tote bag to avoid the high prices on the boats.

Thanks for your comments.

We will be flying into Boston. It sounds like there might be more whale watching time and less boat travel time if we used a charter from Gloucester. What is the best way to get to the whale watching boats in Gloucester?

The whale watching tour I mentioned is on Route 133 in Gloucester. Their phone number is 1-800-WHALING and the website is: www.yankeefleet.com

The MBTA provides train service between Boston %26amp; Gloucester via the Newburyport/Rockport line. For schedules, see

www.mbta.com/schedules_and_maps/rail/lines/鈥?/a>

Thanks for the train info.

I called and found out it takes about an hour from North Station to get to Gloucester. I%26#39;m not sure if we want to ride on the train that long in late July.

Has anyone had experience with the whale watching charter that runs out of Boston by the aquarium? As long as the waves aren%26#39;t too bad I think we would rather take a boat ride than a train ride. Also, how is the ride on the whale watching tours? Are the boats large and do they take the waves well?

Thanks for all your help.

I used Boston Harbor Cruises last weekend, and it was a really nice trip. It was about an hour ride out to Stellwagen Bank (where the whales feed), about an hour cruising around looking at whales (and we saw quite a few), and then about an hour back to Boston. It is $35 for adults, and they offer several departure times on weekends. I am horrible about guessing how many people can be in any area, but I would horribly guess that there may have been 200 people on board. The day I went the water was pretty calm, so I can%26#39;t speak to how the boat handles waves.

Independence Day

Arriving from NY on 4th July late afternoon for 3 nights and staying in Back Bay area. Travelling with 15 year old daughter and needing advise as to what best to do and where to see firewaorks.

Independence Day

You can checkout the Boston Harborfest events on line. There will be lots of activities in and around the Downtown Area.

The fireworks occur over the Charles River about 10:30 PM, so you should start heading towards the river an hour before to join your 1 million close friends who%26#39;ll be joining you to do the same thing. The best vantage point at a late time (which that is) is on the Boston-bound side of the Longfellow Bridge.

The next day, you can walk the Freedom Trail to see some of the historic sights. Go to Harvard Square one evening and make sure you stroll through Harvard Yard.

Independence Day

Thanks for your help and looking forward to the festivities!

You all might enjoy listening to this audio overview of Boston before arriving -- the download is free:

www.tourcaster.com/TourDetails.aspx…

The Boston Globe (local newspaper) provides a podcast of the Freedom Trail -- and no charge to download this one either:

boston.com/travel/…

For a less traditional ';audio tour'; which your teen might find especially appealing, Audissey has this one ($10 to download)

http://www.audisseyguides.com/tours/show/2

Romantic restaraunt????

My husband and I will be visiting Nantucket (staying at 7 Street Inn) this weekend and our anniversary is sunday. We want a romantic/delicious and enjoyable dining experience - lots of ambience - any suggestions? Thx

Romantic restaraunt????

Most restaurants should be open this weekend. Try American Seasons, Company of the Cauldron or Oran Mor. Others would be Languedoc and 21 Federal. Check www.nantucket.net for menus and decide if they have the kind of food you like. Call for a reservation before you leave, especially for Company of the Cauldron, which is small and does fixed seatings.

Romantic restaraunt????

Try the Pearl or the Summer House.. Also, have a good breakfast at Black Eyed Susans...

The Galley at sunset... little on the island beats it!

hydrocortisone cream

hotels

It appears that our tour will be staying at the following hotel Courtyard by Marriott Boston Revere. How far to the main attractions of Boston, is transport nearby? I%26#39;m sure it%26#39;s proably only a 2star hotel. Any comments would be appreciated. When the tour ends we would like to stay another day in Boston, can anyone suggest a more central hotel.

hotels

Revere is about 10-15 mins north of the city, accessible via the Blue Line. I assume the hotel has a shuttle. Revere itself is a working-class neighborhood. It%26#39;s known for its expansive beach, popular with walkers and sunbathers, and for its dogtrack and multicultural urban makeup.

You can get a good central downtown hotel via Priceline or Hotwire at a reasonable price. There are loads of great hotels downtown. To suggest one, it would be helpful to know what you%26#39;re looking for.

Fenway Park from Plymouth?

We are planning a trip to MA in early April and are staying in Plymouth. We would like to attend one of the evening games at Fenway Park during the first home stand against the Mariners if we can get tickets, and I was wondering what the best way to get to and from the ballpark would be if the game is at 7:00 PM and ends at approximately 10:00 PM. I would rather take public transportation if possible, than attempt to drive into the city and then try to navigate our way back to Plymouth that late at night. Does anyone know if there is public transportation to and from Plymouth at that time of the evening, and if so, is it safe? Where is the station located in Plymouth? We are staying at the Radisson, and I was curious if the subway station is reasonably close to this hotel. Thanks!

Fenway Park from Plymouth?

IF you do not want to drive in to the city I suggest you drive to the Braintree T station and park there. Take the Red Line to the Park Street stop and then switch to the Green Line.

Take the Green Line to the Kenmore stop using any Green Line train, except the E. If on the Green Line - D branch, use the Fenway stop.

Fenway Park from Plymouth?

You might also check the Commuter Rail schedules, to see if there are trains running at that hour. One caveat: if there are very few trains, don%26#39;t chance it---take the T to braintree and continue the drive from there. The downside to parking in Braintree rather than the Plymouth Commuter Rail station is that it%26#39;s still quite a hike from Braintree to Plymouth... it would be ideal to be able to jump on the commuter rail at South Station and relax most of the way back...

Plymouth and Brockton Bus lines also run commuter buses. You might check their availability.... those buses also leave from South Station.

To get to South Station from Fenway, you take the Green Line to the Red Line, switching at Park Street and take the Red Line (either Ashmont or Braintree train) from Park to South Station, (two stops).

I%26#39;m a woman in my 30s and I take the T late at night and have never had a problem. (A lot of trouble that happens on the T happens in broad daylight--I have cop/T-official friends and they confirm this)... friends of mine have had wallets stolen on rush-hour trains and most women have stories of being harrassed in one way or another on very crowded trains. When school gets out in the afternoon is another time when there can be trouble if you get onto a car with a ton of kids embroiled in a fight or lookign for trouble. The T is predominantly pretty safe, but... like I %26#39; m saying, late night isn%26#39;t the worst time to be on it... obviously, you wouldn%26#39;t want to wander down a poorly lit corridor all alone or pick a fight with the guy talking to himself at the end of the platform, etc.

If there%26#39;s a Sox game letting out, you%26#39;ll be a part of a big crowd of people making their way home. I';ve taken the late train to Braintree and seen the crowds of Sox fans and... it%26#39;s a crowd...

I don%26#39;t know a lot about Plymouth, but it%26#39;s a middle-class suburb with nice houses and lots of Range Rovers.... You should not have a problem parking in the commuter lot at either the Commuter Rail or Braintree...

The other thing is that if you do drive, it%26#39; s not that hard to find you way back to Plymouth: driving across the city is a little tricky, but not impossible: you just get over to the Southeast Expressway (our signage in Boston has improved)... there are a bunch of ways to do it, but the easiest that occurs to me is to drive along Comm Ave out of Kenmore Square, in the direction of the Public Gardens, only you dont%26#39; go all the way to Arlington Street but instead turn right onto Mass Ave. You follow Mass Ave directly to the Expressway--just stay on Mass Ave until it comes to the X-Way and follow the signs South (they%26#39;ll say Quincy, 93/3) Once you%26#39;re on the X-way south, you just bear left at the Braintree Split and follow Rt 3 to Plymouth.

It%26#39;s a hike, but... it%26#39;s not unthinkable. Like...thank God, nothign has ever happened to me on the train at night...and I think you%26#39;d be fine with the crowds and all that... Plus, it would be much easier on you to just jump on the commuter rail. It%26#39;s got to be an hour from Boston to Plymouth without traffic..

I guess I%26#39;m saying either way could be fine.

Thanks for all of your help. Now it doesn%26#39;t sound quite so daunting... : %26gt; )

Just glancing through this area when I noticed your email. The commuter rail is wonderful and safe but the line does not run too often. You would need to park at the Kingston stop since this line runs more frequent. This station is on Route 3 at exit 8 (north of Plymouth). You can view the schedules on the website www.mbta.com. Should you take the Red Line at park at Braintree, when coming back from the game, do not take the Red Line to Ashmount. This line does not have any stops at Braintree. Again, you can view the stops on the same website. If you have more than three people in your group it is less expensive to drive in to the game and park near the ballpark but it is difficult to get to no matter what the other people stated. But there are many people that attend and would be happy to help you. Good luck and enjoy your stay.

Thanks for your helpful suggestions. So do you think that our family of four would be better off to drive our minivan into Boston for the game rather than try to navigate the public transit, especially that late in the evening? The last thing that I want is to end up at the wrong station at 11:00 at night and then have to try to navigate our way back to the right station before the trains stop running. I%26#39;m not worried if parking is expensive. We have paid $20 to park at Tigers games in Detroit.

I%26#39;m afraid $20 for parking in Boston for the Red Sox won%26#39;t do.

So how much is parking in Boston for the Red Sox?

Sultana, it depends where you park. Right near the ballpark, it could run between $20-$25 dollars. Further down I have seen some lots for about $15 but it is quite a hike. Parking at Braintree is about $3.00 plus about $5.00 per person roundtrip on the train. You can see the fares on the website www.mbta.com. They do add extra trains when there is a ball game especially on the green line. For you, it might be wiser to take the train because you really don%26#39;t know your way around Boston. I know that the other person said it was easy to find your way there and back but it can be very tricky. Both the Red Line and Commuter Line are safe especially since you will be travelling with other people going to and from the game.

Last season, there was a big uproar because many of the parking lots (all private - there is no ';Fenway'; lot) were charging $100 for game day parking with the Yankees. $50 was considered more the norm. For ';lesser'; games, I have seen signs for $30 and $40, although I%26#39;m sure there may be some $25 parking spaces as well, but surely not for all games. Last year, I believe the Prudential Center offered $15 parking with a purchase in the mall and a ticket stub, but I%26#39;m not sure that would be an ongoing program. It%26#39;s still a walk to Fenway from there.