Bachelorette Party

My best friend is getting married, and wants a bachelorette weekend on the Cape. Does anyone know of a good hotel that we could stay at ( about 20 girls-5 rooms)? We want something decent and clean, but that we can also have some fun at the bars nearby. Of course, in the spirit of things I expect it will be a rowdy, late night; which needs to be taken into consideration for the accomodation choice.

Bachelorette Party

For Bachelorette parties, Newport, RI would be a better choice. WALKING distance to more bars and restaurants, as well as more choices, plus the beach nearby. The Cape has become much more of a family destination over the years....i.e. cookouts, beaching, casual dinners....not as much of a party scene as it used to be for 20 - 30 somethings...something to consider.

Bachelorette Party

Well Hyannis and Provincetown both might be good choices for a fun time. Unfortunately, I can%26#39;t give any first hand recommendations for your lodging in Hyannis. In Provincetown, perhaps you might consider the Brass Key which has an excellent reputation and is close to things happening in town. Also, the Fairbanks Inn might be a possibility. Have a great time!

What about Seacoast in Hyannis? Also walking distance to a lot of attractions , restaurants and bars on Main St. yet right near the harbor and beach. They are highly rated on tripadvisors and moderate in price. Check it out.

If you expect a rowdy late night, Hyannis or Provincetown would be the best choices. One word of caution, over the past few years the Hyannis police have been cracking down on late night misbehavior. I haven%26#39;t seen anything in the paper lately, but I recall several articles from last summer about problems with the after-hours bar crowd.

You%26#39;d have a really good time in this Pub for SURE. You could leave the cars in their parking lot and forget about them for a few days. This place is called the Cape Cod Irish Village in West Yarmouth on Rte 28. One thing about it that you%26#39;ll really like is that they have breakfast and dinner packages and their food is really good, you pick what you want right off the menu too. The rooms are nothing to write home about, trust me they%26#39;re just your basic motel rooms, but you%26#39;re hardly ever there any way. The pub is the draw here and that%26#39;s where you%26#39;ll want to be at night with your type of a group any way. I think you guys would have a really good time here. If it%26#39;s rainy when you%26#39;re here during the day? Head to Hyannis, it%26#39;s right up the road, tons of shopping along this road and all that. There%26#39;s even a Christmas Tree Shop right across the road. Be careful crossing this road, it gets busy in the summer months, just use their cross walk. Their outdoor pool here is fun, most of the time with groups that stay there like yours. It%26#39;s a place that people go to all year round too which shows you how much fun it is. It%26#39;s all ages too, your age group is starting to find out about this wonderfully convenient little place these days. They own the motel beside them called the Mayflower as well as the Cape Traveler. I%26#39;ve stayed at the Cape Traveler and there%26#39;s a walking path to get right to the Pub %26amp; main complex right out back, how convenient is that AND their pool here has a cabana where your group could hang out, so remember that:

www.capecod-irishvillage.com

Have a wonderful time!

Defintiely do Provincetown!! The accomodations might be a little priceir, but so worth it. Plus you will never need cabs- so factor that money into the hotels. Right along Commercial Street, you have bars, clubs, shopping, restaurants....and not to mention the most entertaining crowds around!! Staying in PTown you also have some of the most beautiful beaches surrounding you to hit up during the day.

Hyannis has grown overly crowded in the summer time - especially nights on Main Street. You%26#39;ll find yourself waitng online to get into a bar that isn%26#39;t worth it. From beach to the bars...cabs are needed and Hyannis beaches arent even all that great.

Also - in PTown...you%26#39;re rowdyness will blend right in!!

Hi guys! Some friends and I are also trying to plan a bachelorette and we%26#39;re deciding between Provincetown and Portland, ME. Any thoughts?! We think P-town would be something she would never forget but Portland is apparently so nice, too. Does anyone know anything about the Surfside Hotel %26amp; Suites in P-town?

Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl - June 5-7

The Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl all you can eat ice cream party may be as popular as the Boston Tea Party. Now held at City Hall Plaza, look for it each June as an unofficial beginning of summer.

The event serves up ice cream from 10 of the nation’s leading ice cream companies while raising money for the Jimmy Fund, which supports cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

The Scooper Bowl has grown into the world’s biggest all-you-can-eat ice cream festival - with 30,000-plus annual attendees, live music, and volunteers from the industry’s largest companies on hand at Boston’s City Hall Plaza to serve up ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet over three days each June.

Tuesday, June 5th - 11:30am-6:00pm

Wednesday, June 6th – 11:30am-8:00pm

Thursday, June 7th – 11:30am-6:00pm

AlanM

Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl - June 5-7

Alan,

Thanks for the heads-up. I will be stopping by on my commute home from work. Kudos to you for bringing the Jimmy Fund to the the main stage at TA. It%26#39;s a cause that none of us should overlook.

trolley tour

What is the difference between the beantown trolley tour and the old town trolley? Are they 2 different companies? Which one is better?

trolley tour

Hi Kayjenks,

Yes, they%26#39;re two different companies. They%26#39;re both really great! It%26#39;s just that the Beantown Trolley Tour is part of the following deal and it%26#39;s highly recommended by alot of the travelers and experts on this particular site and others in Boston really like it alot, if you go to this:

www.GoBostonCard.com

you%26#39;ll read all the great deals included when you get this card, it%26#39;s really wonderful. Beantown Trolley is affiliated with Brush Hill Tours and Gray Line which are highly reputable at giving great tours. They give excellent tours of the City.

Old Town Trolley Tours of Boston are the orange and green trolleys you%26#39;ll see around the City; they can be reached at 1 800 868-7482.

It%26#39;s your call, take your pick!

Have fun!

trolley tour

I had the Go Boston Card and took the Bean Town Trolley tour. We took it on 2 different days with 2 differetn drivers and had bad experience with both. Waiting times for the trolley was long and we saw the Old town trolley pass by twice... should have gone with that one. The drivers had mild road rage, but I still could hear them say stuff that I find unprofessional and I ont want to hear it. One seemed like he was yelling at us the whole time and was not funny. The other read stuttered and repeated stuff over because he was reading the information WHILE driving! He also kept answering his cell phone, and his trolley wasnt in the best shape as well, as the breaks were squeaky very loudly that we had to change trolleys in the middle. He also skipped some stops announcements and yelled at the people in the back ti quiet down and claimed he has ADD.

I%26#39;ve heard good things about Old Town Trolley.....

There%26#39;s also the Duck Tours which are great if you%26#39;ve got kids...

While in Boston last November, we went on an Old Town Trolley tour and it was great! The drivers were great and we didn%26#39;t have to wait long to reboard at any stop. It was a good way to get your bearings in the city and visit some of the historical spots. I would highly recommend it!

I took a look at the online map for the OLD TOWN trolley and it gets pretty fuzzy when you zoom in on it. Do they give you a map that you can clearly see the stops on?

If you have the Go Card, Beantown is the choice.

If you are buying a ticket, Old Town is probably the best bet. Every company has good and not-so good drivers. Old Town is the most professional organization. The big difference in the tour itself is frequency. Old Town picks up much more often.. Believe they also go to Fenway.

sanskrit name

July fourth sugestions

Hi all

We are going to be in Boston on the fourth,My wife and two kids 12,14 would like to see the fireworks with the boston pops, any sugestions on best way to see them as far as location and timming? We plan to be in a hotel in downtown anduse th T as much as possible. Thanks

David

July fourth sugestions

The most obvious answer is to get a blanket and pack some food and go sit on the Esplanade. To get a good spot, get there by 3pm. Some people get there early in the morning, but I think that%26#39;s excessive. We%26#39;ve never had any trouble getting there later, but you really don%26#39;t want to be showing up at 5pm or later expecting to get a decent spot.

July fourth sugestions

Hi,

First, you should be aware that you really can%26#39;t see the concert and the fireworks at the same time. By that, I mean that the seats on the Esplanade which afford a great view of the concert, are very poor for watching the fireworks.

Usually, there are a couple of JumboTron TV screens set up for people to watch the concert outside of the Esplanade, in areas where the Fireworks-watching is much better.

For best viewing of the Fireworks, you want to either be in the Cambridge side of the river, along Memorial Drive, or, my personal favorite spot is on the middle of the Longfellow bridge, on the Boston-bound side. You are looking straight at the fireworks barge, with nothing to obstruct the view. Also, you get beautiful reflections off of the John Hancock tower as well.

Check out this website, for more information:

http://www.july4th.org

What time does the firework display usually start ?

Taken from the July 4th site to answer peoples question regarding the Fireworks Show, it starts at 10:30 PM.

The event for 2007 will again be held on the Esplanade in Boston, along the Charles River, which includes the Hatch Shell and Oval.

July 3rd Concert

4:00 pm – Oval Opens

8:30 pm - 10:00 pm – Concert

July 4th Concert %26amp; Fireworks

9:00 am – Oval Opens

8:30 pm - 10:30 pm – Concert

10:30 pm – Fireworks Show

July 4th Broadcast Information

8:00 pm – Local broadcast on WBZ-TV

10:00 pm – National broadcast on CBS Network

Go to the concert on July 3 and then go to the Charles River on July 4 to see the Fireworks

The concert is the same each night except for the Fireworks on July 4

Less Crowds on the grass to enjoy on July 3

I%26#39;ve watched from a few different spots, the Cambridge side of the river has more room, so you can find spots later, but for some silly reason they don%26#39;t turn off the bright traffic lights along Memorial Drive, which runs along the river, so that can kind of kill the feel of nighttime, and trees also obstruct a good deal in the two spots I%26#39;ve been there- 1 near Mass. Ave Bridge and another down near Longfellow.

Take a look at the map on the official website when they have it up closer to the event, it shows where the fireworks barge is, and that will give you an idea of what direction you%26#39;ll be looking and you can keep an eye out for trees and such in your line-of-sight.

The best spot I%26#39;ve had for viewing the fireworks was actually the alley behind Beacon Street, right at the fence next to Storrow Drive at Exeter Street. We went out 15 minutes before the fireworks start. Once the esplanade fills up, people start hanging out on the pedestrian bridges that go over Storrow Drive to the Esplanade and then the bridges fill and then people hang out in the alley! We had a very clear view of the fireworks- this is not to say it%26#39;s the spot to hang out and have a picnic ahead of time, but it%26#39;s a great view- and you%26#39;re the first ones out to head for the T.

The major bridges over the river are similar- they have a good view, but they are also not the nicest spot to spend hours-- sitting on cement instead of grass, and people are constantly filtering through.

The fireworks display itself is somewhat unimpressive to me. I grew up in small town with an awesome fireworks display tho, so I%26#39;m kinda spoiled. But I think what makes Boston special is the atmosphere and the concert- so I%26#39;d choose getting a enjoyable spot to spend the afternoon/evening and picnic over having the best view of the fireworks.

Also, there is a rehearsal concert on the 3rd at the Hatch Shell and that doesn%26#39;t require getting there nearly as early to get a spot, so you might want to consider that too, especially if it%26#39;s very hot or rainy.

And if you%26#39;re not busy guarding your spot at the Hatch Shell, you can check out the various other 4th of July events including the USS Constitution turn-around, and the reading of the Declaration of Independence at the old State House.

Have a great trip!

burts bees

Bagels in Boston

Any ideas for bagel shops? We are staying at the Intercontinental hotel.

Bagels in Boston

Lots of options nearby in the Financial District, including chains like Bruegger%26#39;s and Finagle%26#39;s, and AuBonPain, as well as locally-owned delis. (Bruegger%26#39;s are my favorite)

Bagels in Boston

And on the other side of the Greenway (Atlantic Avenue) near Rwes Wharf , Panera bread also sells bagels. And, they%26#39;re open Sunday mornings!

If you%26#39;re willing to travel, come to Brookline and go to Kupel%26#39;s...

You would take the Green Line, C branch, get off at Coolidge Corner. When you exit, walk north on Harvard (to the right) a few blocks...

National Seashore Beaches/Parking

Spending week here in late July. Staying in Eastham - not within walking distance of beaches. We are fairly mobile ';seniors'; and interested in spending time on beaches and wondering about recommendations.

Have read in Frommer%26#39;s that you can purchase week long parking pass for $40 to park at National Seashore beaches. Likely in the 11ish to 3ish time range weather permitting. Like the sound of oceanside rather than bay beaches and realize colder. Appreciate any thoughts on this.

National Seashore Beaches/Parking

I hadn%26#39;t heard of that National Seashore beach pass until just now - and after looking into it I%26#39;m not sure it%26#39;s such a great deal. The six beaches that you%26#39;re granted entry to just aren%26#39;t my favorite beaches. I much prefer the town beaches and when I look at all the beaches an Eastham Town pass will get you into it looks like the better deal as you%26#39;ve got all sorts of bay beaches, ocean beaches and ponds (my favorite for a swim) to choose from as the mood strikes you - and all of them are close by.

eastham-ma.gov/Public_Documents/…directions

As far as that time of day being good or not - it%26#39;s hard to say. It often happens, in busy months like July, that a parking lot is full and a quick change of plan is in order.

National Seashore Beaches/Parking

If you plan to go to the ocean beaches in Eastham then the $40 pass is a great idea. It will also get you into Marconi beach in Wellfleet, Head of the Meadow beach in Truro and Herring Cove in Provincetown. Eastham does not have any town beaches on the ocean because they gave them all to the Feds when the park was created in the late 1950%26#39;s. If you only want to go to the beach after about 5:30 in the evening, then you will not need a pass for federal beaches.

You will find that the easiest access is Eastham%26#39;s Coast Guard Beach which has a ramp for handicap accessibility. All of the other ocean beaches have many, many steps...not a big problem if you don%26#39;t mind stairs but a bit difficult if you do. You can purchase your pass at the Visitor%26#39;s Center just before you get to the parking which is at Little Creek Staging Area. Once you park take the electric shuttle (they run continually from about 9 a.m-6p.m.) between the beach and the lot. The shuttle is very convenient and only take a few minutes. If you go a bit further up the coast you will see Nauset Light Beach which has just received a new set of stairs (the former set was washed away in the last big storm). Here you have steep stairs with high dunes to the west of the beach. Whichever beach you choose....go early or take the chance that you will not get in. We have never been denied parking entirely but sometimes we have to drive to Truro to Head of the Meadow beach because the Eastham beaches are so popular.

Bring sun screen, and a good book. It%26#39;s heaven!

Are parking charges year round for beaches, or are they seasonal ?

parking charges are seasonal generaly Memoral day to labor day, with some weekend in the shoulder season.

Thanks yellowbird. Think Coast Guard Beach sounds like right speed (mainly for sitting and taking in view and not primarily swimming as can see it might not be best for that) and research shows many parking fees for different beaches including city ones so will likely go pass route for week. May aim for 10 to get into parking lot near there.

The government parks site for National Seashore including various fees is http://www.nps.gov/caco/ What I am a little confused about is whether there is an additional fee to access beaches or will the parking pass provide access for 2 adults? Also wondering if passes of some kind required just to drive and visit towns between Eastham and Provincetown?

First trip to Cape Cod and since only have heard good things about beauty really looking forward to it.

Once you park your car there are no fees to enter the beach. You just park, get on the shuttle and it brings you to the beach. If you want to avoid the fee you can park free at the Salt Pond Visitors Center and then walk the bike trail to get in or bike in. It is about a 2 mile walk so if you have beach gear that won%26#39;t work for you. I think the Park Service may charge a small fee for bikers and walk-ins....or least they say they do. We have walked in many times and not been charged so I%26#39;m not sure what the walk-in policy is. I do know that they do not allow cars to drop off passengers and then leave as it tends to overload the beach. I guess that%26#39;s a good thing since the main thing about the National Seashore beaches that distinguishes them from most town beaches is the uncrowded sandy beach. Of course if you are denied access because it has reached capacity you might not appreciate it!

The Cape Cod National Seashore is unique in that it was created after development occurred. So, there is no scenic ';loop road'; like in Acadia, where the Park service charges a fee. But you do have individual towns that charge for parking at town beaches and Provincetown charges for parking in-town. Other than that, the towns on the outer cape are free.

Very helpful info, yellowbird. Thank you.

Chez Sven B&B, Wellfleet

I%26#39;ve just booked the Chez Sven for the last two nights of a trip we%26#39;re taking in August (down the coast of Maine, to Boston and then to the Cape). The only room they had left was the studio cottage. Has anyone else stayed here?

I%26#39;m having second thoughts, as I understand that bathroom is shared with the innkeepers and in the main cottage...any feedback is appreciated.

Chez Sven B%26amp;B, Wellfleet

Any feedback that you get is not going to change the fact that you will be sharing the bathroom with strangers. That might not bother you OR you may enjoy your vacation more if you have at least the same standard of accommodation that you have at home.

Chez Sven B%26amp;B, Wellfleet

I have not stayed there but have frequented several other small B+Bs in Wellfleet and Eastham. If you are unsure of the amount of private space you will have, you need to be direct and ask the inn keepers for more information. If you want a private bath (and we certainly always do!) then first ask them about the situation in the room you reserved and if it is a shared bath look around at other outer cape B+B%26#39;s for one that offers private baths. Of course you will have to pay more for privacy and luxury any place you stay on the outer cape but there are several nice B+Bs that offer private baths, privacy and luxury. We prefer the Fort HIll Bed and Breakfast in Eastham which also offers direct access to the Fort HIll Area and a fabulous full breakfast in addition to ocean views. If you are looking for a ';green'; accommodation, you might consider it. I am not sure what their minimum stay policy is but it%26#39;s worth a look. www.forthillbedandbreakfast.com

If they are not in your price range go to the local town chamber sites and search there: www.easthamchamber.com and www.wellfleetchamber.com should get you started.

Freedom Trail Followup

I was reading all the posts below regarding the timing of traveling the freedom trail. In all of your expert opinions, is it best to take a guided tour or walk it alone? My wife and I are the type that likes to wander on our own, but if the trail experience itself is best with a guide we%26#39;ll bite the bullet and do it. Also where%26#39;s the best place to eat lunch near or along the freedom trail?

Freedom Trail Followup

If you%26#39;re into it and read the guidebooks about what you%26#39;re seeing, you certainly can do it on your own. If reading is tough, i guide can help you ';live'; the experience and put it in historical context.

For lunch. Quincy Market for whatever you want or even the North End for Italian, depending on how far you get.

AlanM

Freedom Trail Followup

The Warren Tavern in Charlestown is a nice spot to have a burger and a couple of adult beverages. Located down the hill from the Monument on the corner of Pleasant and Main Streets. Over 225 years old, It%26#39;s a historical place in and of itself. George Washington had a beer there(seriously). Head to warrentavern.com for all the info you need.

warren tavern is great....

I would go it alone and the suggestion of the Warren Tavern is spot on. Check out www.warrerntavern.com

Sorry it%26#39;s delayed but thank you very much for the Warren Tavern tip. I have to at least grab a beer there, checked out the site, seems very interesting... Can%26#39;t wait to go, the countdown is on, leaving Thursday.

Jack

Unless you already are steeped in Boston%26#39;s colonial history, a visit along the Trail will definitely be enhanced by some sort of guide to supplement the signage along the Freedom Trail because the markers %26amp; the freebie map/guide are fairly skimpy on information. Even the non-freebie guide available at the Visitors Center on the Common isn%26#39;t chock-full of info, and many of us find it cumbersome to share a guidebook on the spot.

So for those folks who prefer a do-it-yourself MO or who can%26#39;t take advantage of one of the tours led by a guide or National Park Service Ranger because of scheduling conflcts, I recommend an audtio tour. Here%26#39;s the URL for the Boston Globe%26#39;s PodCast tour of the Freedom Trial for which there is no charge to download:

boston.com/travel/…

If you two don%26#39;t each have your own iPod/MP3 player, you can rent an audio tour handset from the official BostonVisitor Information Center on theTremont Street side of the Common (I believe the fee is $13/day). You might wish to call ahead of time to see if indeed they have some in stock for you: 617 536-4100

With both of these (different) audio tours, you can stop-and-start the narrative at will. CHEERS

Unless you already are steeped in Boston%26#39;s colonial history, a visit along the Trail will definitely be enhanced by some sort of guide to supplement the signage along the Freedom Trail because the markers %26amp; the freebie map/guide are fairly skimpy on information. Even the non-freebie guide available at the Visitors Center on the Common isn%26#39;t chock-full of info, and many of us find it cumbersome to share a guidebook on the spot.

So for those folks who prefer a do-it-yourself MO or who can%26#39;t take advantage of one of the tours led by a guide or National Park Service Ranger because of scheduling conflcts, I recommend an audtio tour. Here%26#39;s the URL for the Boston Globe%26#39;s PodCast tour of the Freedom Trial for which there is no charge to download:

boston.com/travel/…

If you two don%26#39;t each have your own iPod/MP3 player, you can rent an audio tour handset from the official BostonVisitor Information Center on theTremont Street side of the Common (I believe the fee is $13/day). You might wish to call ahead of time to see if indeed they have some in stock for you: 617 536-4100

With both of these (different) audio tours, you can stop-and-start the narrative at will. CHEERS

Hi,

If you are the type that likes to wander on your own, you should be fine doing the Freedom Trail on your own. It%26#39;s designed to be a self-guided tour, and there is a very nice brochure you should pick up at the Visitor%26#39;s center on Boston Common. It will guide you through the Trail.

If you would like to take a guided tour, that%26#39;s fun too. You might consider taking one of the other guided walking tours of the city, offered by Boston by Foot, which are really a lot of fun and very informative:

http://www.bostonbyfoot.com

Eating at the Warren Tavern is a great idea. Another idea would be to stop at the Raw Bar at the Union Oyster House, and have some oysters and a cold beer. The Oyster House is the oldest continuously-operating restaurant in the US, and has loads of historical charm.

a make up brush set

Hotel $100 or less

any recommendations for a decent hotel for $100 or less, from which I can easily commute by car or public transit into the Boston Historical district? - I%26#39;ll be coming in October for a short stay. Thanks.

Elvira in California

Hotel $100 or less

I%26#39;ve been able to get four star hotels right in the city (Copley Place or Financial District) for a $100 name your own price on Priceline several times, but you must pay for parking which is usually around $38. For my frequent travel to Boston outskirts, the Dedham Hilton has fairly luxurious rooms (marble tile bath, awesome bed linens, lavazza coffee maker) that I have always been able to get on Priceline by bidding $50/three star for the Norwood/Dedham area. It is a bit of a drive into town, but there is free parking and a commuter train adjacent.

Hotel $100 or less

Thanks! I hadn%26#39;t even thought of trying priceline.

Priceline is probably the only way you%26#39;ll find anything decent for less than 100 anywhere near Boston...

Just booked the Gilton Boston Financial District for Memorial Wknd at $95 / night on priceline

That should read Hilton ... oops

I must have been doing priceline too early for 6/6-6/10 since i didn%26#39;t get anything for $120 or less. However, I did find Constitution Inn, which is just $99, and for us only $49 since I%26#39;m a military member - can%26#39;t beat that even though it%26#39;s not exactly the greatest place to stay.

Just back from the Hilton Financial Boston, cannot say enough great things about the place. Gave us a room on 12th floor even could see the water if we leaned a little. Huge refurbished room, thick terry bathrobes, nice marble/chrome bathroom. Only minor complaint was everything was feathers, pillows %26amp; comforter, and I%26#39;m super allergic. They did everything to try and find hypoallergenic ones but too late for the first night (our fault for checking in late). The staff is above and beyond in the service and friendly department. Clean rooms, clean hotel. They serve great coffee in the morning in the lobby area, take a cup back to the room, although there are little 2 cup makers in the room, but that%26#39;s work! Book thru priceline if you can, it%26#39;s SO worth it!

bananamamma - glad to hear you had a good experience @ the Hilton! Staying overnight there for a wedding in June (wedding @ Boston Harbor but room prices through the roof!) I am paying almost double what you paid through priceline and that%26#39;s the discounted wedding rate!! So I%26#39;m happy you got such an awesome rate, happy it%26#39;s a nice place %26amp; sad that I%26#39;m paying so much more :(

kbell: Don%26#39;t be sad, these things happen, just enjoy! we waited and booked pretty much last minute (about 4 days before we were to arrive). Wwhen you get there, be very nice and smile alot and ask (quietly) if they have a really nice room for you... that%26#39;s what I did and she found 1209 which as she pointed out, is a handicap equipped room, but other than the towel bars being a little low and having a higher seat on the toilet and a telephone shower head, all was the same... and as I already stated very nice.

If you%26#39;re taking a car, you just won%26#39;t need it. We walked or took taxis, so you can park it in a very safe garage about a 5 minute walk away (underground at the Post Office Square) for $9 a day..careful as we were charged the full $9 for Friday even though we only got in at 11:35pm... it goes by Sat and Sun (the special) there are many public lots in that area and they are very nice compared to ours here in Montreal, bright and airy. They even offer escort to your car if you want after a certain time (nice).

Thanks bananamamma - I actually drive into town here every day for work (right in PO square) so I%26#39;m used to parking. I plan on parking %26amp; staying parked though, driving around here is not fun even if you know where you%26#39;re going!

Fenway seating questions

Hi my girlfriend and i are going to our first sox game in July and we got seats Row C in Section 34. But i am Wondering how are the rows numbered? Like Does it Start at A or at 1? We go to a lot of Celtics games and it is nice becuase you can see the view from your exact seat but Fenway doesn%26#39;t offer that.

Fenway seating questions

That is straight away Center Field Bleachers pretty good seats, especially for Fenway....not sure exactly how that section is lettered but there aren%26#39;%26#39;t many seats in those first 2 sections (34 and 35) You can see the view from your section (Not exact seat) at:

鈥lb.com/bos/ballpark/seating.jsp

just click on your section and you%26#39;ll see the view. Be aware that those sections are only open during night games, so if it is rained out, and made up in the day, you%26#39;ll either be moved to other seats, or sometimes they give you dark green t-shirts to wear...

burts bees

Help with putting together a pub crawl

Hi All,

I am going to be in Boston with about 7 co-workers this summer and we all love exploring pubs with atmosphere/character. Needless to say, there are just too many to choose from in Boston so I have been charged with putting together a pub crawl or two. We%26#39;re staying at the Fairmont and so would like the ';crawls'; to not be too far away, maybe in Beacon Hill, Back Bay, Faneuil Hall area - wherever you think would be fun and have a nice collection of pubs, outdoor seating, historical meaning or just a fun atmosphere. We%26#39;re all in our 30%26#39;s, more males than females.

Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Help with putting together a pub crawl

You can put together a pub crawl in the Quincy Market/Fanueil Hall areavery easily. There are many pubs in the area only a short walk apart - sometimes even next door to each other. If you like Irish pubs, so much the better. You can include Jose McIntyre%26#39;s, an Irish-Mexican pub, and Hong Kong.

Help with putting together a pub crawl

YES, you%26#39;re going to be very busy right in the Faneuil Hall Marketplace area alone. You%26#39;ll have the Black Rose at 160 State St., start there, walk out the door and around the corner to the Purple Shamrock at 1 Union Street. Afterwards, walk up to Jose McIntyre%26#39;s at 160 Milk Street okay? Leave there and head to Coogan%26#39;s at 171 Milk Street stroll out the door and buzz down to Canal Street; where you can pick up ';last call'; at Hurricane O%26#39;Reilly%26#39;s, it%26#39;s located at 150 Canal Street. BUT if you%26#39;re lucky you%26#39;ll be able to hit a few other places before they shut down. It%26#39;s early, when it%26#39;s last call in Boston, it was always like that, so remember that one good! A lot of people from other parts of the country can%26#39;t seem to get used to that! Just start early that%26#39;s all, you%26#39;ll feel as if you were out later, like in LA! The beauty of this little pub crawl? You can walk to all of them; which is ideal.

Go to one of these sites:

http://www.bostonirishpubs.com/irishpubs.html

www.irishconnection.com

www.irishmassachusetts.com

Click on Pubs %26amp; Restaurants and you%26#39;ll see most of the pubs I mentioned.

Too bad you couldn%26#39;t hop in a taxi early in the evening during your visit and head to South Boston some night. One pub that you%26#39;ll really like being in is the ';L Street Tavern';. It%26#39;s located at 658A E. 8th Street, where some of the movie ';Good Will Hunting'; was filmed. It%26#39;s on the Movie Tour too, so if you happen to get the chance? Try to do this tour during the day, I think it would be a really fun time with your group; especially coming from LA, you%26#39;d probably get a kick out of this whole thing!

http://bostonmovietours.net

If you go to this site you%26#39;ll see some interesting places too:

www.sohoboston.com

On this site is the ';Playwright Bar'; which is located at 658 East Broadway in South Boston. You could go here first if you can and then walk out of there down the street a little ways to the Boston Beer Garden. Both of these bars were named Best Neighborhood Bar in Boston in the last few years and I have to tell you? The cuisine at the Playwright is really really good, so remember that. Here%26#39;s their sites so you can see what I mean about them:

www.playwrightbar.com

www.bostonbeergarden.com

Enjoy yourselves that%26#39;s the main thing.

Here%26#39;s a list of taxis if you do decide to go over to the neighborhood of Southie. This neighborhood is only 1 mile from the Back Bay area of the city and 2 miles from the Financial District:

Boston Licensed Taxi Companies

Boston Cab, (617) 536-5010

City Cab, (617) 536-5100

ITOA, (617) 825-4000

Metro Cab, (617) 782-5500

Town Taxi, (617) 536-5000

One last call...if you guys are REALLY ambitious; try to get over to see the Warren Tavern in Charlestown. It%26#39;s one of the oldest bars around. You can read about it on their site to see what I mean. The food is good here too. (but I still like the Playwright in Southie myself!)

The Warren Tavern is over 225 years old

It was first erected in 1780 in Charlestown, MA. It was also one of the first buildings raised after Charlestown was sacked by the British. It was visited by national heros such as George Washington who stopped there for refreshments and conversation Paul Revere considered it one of his favorite watering holes. George Washington%26#39;s funeral speech was given here!

In historic Charlestown

The tavern is located in the cozy streets of Charlestown. It is both a staple for Charlestown residents as well as an exciting location for visitors who want to have a drink and to dine in one of the most historic taverns in the United States.

www.warrentavern.com

Have a great time!

That%26#39;s great information, thank you both so much! I love Boston and am always looking for places that I haven%26#39;t been to before.

Much appreciated!

Here%26#39;s a great link: www.bostonusa.com/images/admin/logos/Pubs.htm

On the other side of Faneuil Hall is the Haymarket area - architecturally more intersting then the previous pub crawl layout.

Start at The Bell in Hand, cross the cobblestone street to The Green Dragon, walk down a few doors to The Point or up the other direction to Hennesey%26#39;s, Marshall House and Purple Shamrock. All are located on one of the oldest surving blocks of buildings in Boston. You also have the option of stopping in The Union Oyster House before making your way through Quincy Market (Salty Dog, Ned Devine%26#39;s) to The Black Rose and carry on with the crawl outlined by the previous post.

In the Back Bay, you can start at the end of Boylston Street that intersects with Mass Ave and work your way down Boylston. Try Bukowski%26#39;s, The Cactus Club, Dillon%26#39;s, Vox Populi, Foggy Goggle, Solas, Lir, The Big Easy, World Cafe and end at the Rattlesnake. If you are looking for more to do after that and still have your legs under you, The Alley with its bars and dance clubs is just a bit further down Boylston. There are plenty of food options on the way also.

After all of the previous suggestions and if you liver is still intact you could start at the Warren Tavern in Charlestown and also check out Tavern on the Water in the Charlestown Navy Yard and then take a leisurely stroll across the North Washington Street bridge and turn right onto Causeway Street heading towards the Boston Garden where on Canal Street you will find Sullivan%26#39;s Tap, The Four%26#39;s, Hurricane O%26#39;Riellys, The Boston Sports Grille, Boston Beer Works and the Grand Canal.

Cape Cod

I%26#39;m visiting Boston late June and wondered if there was any organised trips to Cape Cod ?

Cape Cod

I don%26#39;t know if there are any organized day-trips, but you can take a %26#39;fast ferry%26#39; from Boston to Provincetown (the very end of the cape) and there%26#39;s lots to see and do within a short walk/bus ride/bike ride from where the boat drops you off. And you can rent bikes there.

A week or so ago somebody posted asking if it was ';worth it'; to go to Provincetown and got some good replies. Scroll down and see if you can find it.

Happy Planning!!!

Cape Cod

Thanks for your reply Ferry and Bike Hire sound like a great idea.

What area is Commercial Wharf considered?

We are staying on the wharf at the Boston Yacht Haven - is there a name for that area? North End, South End - ????

What area is Commercial Wharf considered?

Commercial Wharf is Commercial Wharf. It%26#39;s not so much an area as a wharf, an entity/destination...it%26#39;s near the North End, near Christopher Columbus Park, on the waterfront.

What area is Commercial Wharf considered?

...it%26#39;s a very good location....

CoCoSandy is right. It%26#39;s considered as the North End Waterfront.

Thanks for clearing that up -

Since you%26#39;ll be staying at the Yacht Haven, I thought you might like scrolling through the Boston Harbor Association%26#39;s web site; they even offer a Harbor Walk audio tour that you can download at no charge

www.bostonharborwalk.com/thingstodo/?aid=16

Hope you%26#39;ll post a review of the Yacht Haven upon your return :-)

wavy hair

Radisson or Lenux

We are traveling to Boston in August for 4 nights and I am looking at the Lenux or Radisson Hotel. We have two children 13 and 7. Which one would be best for location and suited for a family . Both are a similar price.

Radisson or Lenux

I will let you know what we think of the raddison-we are staying there this weekend!

Radisson or Lenux

I prefer the Lenox location. It%26#39;s right in Copley Square and at a Green Line subway station The Radisson is located okay too, but not right in Copley. It%26#39;s actually in what%26#39;s called Park Square, about a 10 minute walk to Copley, but closer to Downtown and the Waterfront.

The Lenox is the choice for someone traveling with young kids. I%26#39;m not a fan of the Park Square/Theater District area, especially at night. Frankly, it needs to be cleaned up. There%26#39;s a lot of riff-raff that hang out down there at night. The Lenox, on the other hand, is in the wonderful, family-friendly Back Bay neighborhood.

I agree with Alan %26amp; Healey the Lenox would be my choice.

We stayed at the Lenox for our 10 day stay in Boston and we loved it,the staff were friendly the hotel and room clean and luxurious.

Only complaint from my hubby was no coffee making facilities in the room - but he was a regular at starbucks and the hotel staff did`nt seem to mind.

We are coming back to Boston next year and will certainlt stay at the Lenox - it`s so convenient within walking distance of all amenities and the t is practically on the doorstep.

The Radisson has a pool which could make a difference with children especially after walking in the August heat. If I were travelling with only my signifigant other I would opt for the Lennox.

As far as the Park Square area, I personally have never encountered problems. There are several higher end restaurants in the area as well as the Theatre District. Like any large American city, if you pay attention to your surroundings you should be fine.

The Lenox, hands down.

Best place to Lunch near MFA or Gardner Museum

I will be spending a morning and early afternoon in June at both museums and need to feed lunch to two teens and spouse. What can anyone recommend? We will not have a car.

Best place to Lunch near MFA or Gardner Museum

The MFA itself has a lovely restaurant inside, next to the gift shop. The food is excellent (a little expensive) and the atmosphere is lovely.

Best place to Lunch near MFA or Gardner Museum

If you want to save some money and don%26#39;t mind walking a bit, go down Huntington Avenue towards Copley Square. Northeastern university is a couple of blocks away and has more student-oriented (cheaper) eateries.

There%26#39;s not much at all, in the immediate vicinity of the MFA. As mentioned, your best bet is to walk down Huntington Ave. a few blocks, towards Copley Sq. There are lots of pizza and sub shops serving the Northeastern students.

If you want something a bit more ';adult';, there%26#39;s a place called Betty%26#39;s Wok and Noodle Diner, on the corner of Huntington and Mass. Ave, which is very good, and has a funky vibe which the teens will like.

Also, a block away from there, next to the BU Theater, is a Pizzeria Uno, which would work fine for you.

Thanks. Either Betty%26#39;s or the Pizza sounds like the way to go for us.

Do you know anything about dinner at the ';Cheers'; at Fanqueil Hall? Is it just a tourist trap or worth a burger at least?

You don%26#39;t go to Cheers because of the food..........

Hi,

Cheers=Tourist Trap

%26#39;nuff said...

Actually, the MFA also has a very nice cafeteria, believe it or not. It has some outstanding antipasti and interesting sandwiches and soups and desserts. You can take your tray to either indoor or outdoor dining areas. The outdoor area is on a patio in one of the garden courts (quiet and surrounded by the museum). You go downstairs at the far end of the ';west wing'; where you enter. It%26#39;s worth checking before you commit.

I actually like the indoor cafe the most, but its portions are small, and it%26#39;s less likely to meet your needs. The upstairs restaurant seems rather dressy, but I%26#39;ve not eaten there. You%26#39;ll see them both near the entrance.

Lighthouse locations

If there is such a map or website, could someone provide a link showing lighthouse locations on the Cape ?

Lighthouse locations

www.lighthouse.cc

then pick massachusetts and then select the lighhouse

Lighthouse locations

Looks like seasailorswim has got you going. One piece of local trivia, Minot Light, for ships approaching Boston has a bright/dark sequence of 1-4-3. Reputed to be the I-LOVE-YOU light. That is, 1-4-3 = I LOVE YOU. It%26#39;s not Cape Cod, but it%26#39;s a lighthouse, kinda extra romantic at that.

Are you looking to stay in a lighthouse as a lightkeeper (it%26#39;s possible) or do you just want to visit them? If you are looking to stay at one, please say so. With a little time I can come up with several resources.

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

Cheers,

Harry

Thanks for the info - most useful

burts bees

nightlige in boston

I%26#39;d like to know if the bars in Boston close at 2pm since it is last call at 2pm-- or do they just stop serving alcohol and stay open?

nightlige in boston

Hi,

2am is closing time. Last call is 1:45am. They usually give you about 15-20 minutes to finish that last drink and clear out by 2:20am or so.

nightlige in boston

thanks---i%26#39;m going down there in august for my bachelor party-- got any good lounge/bar suggestions? our style is not so much the pub crowd-- we like lounges-- 25-35 crowd-- we heard SAINT is cool..

Whale watchers: record sightings for right whales!

If you plan to go whale-watching off the Cape this season, you%26#39;re in for a treat. Reports indicate there are record numbers of the whales -- about 120, out of a total world population of only 400. This is an endangered species!

Whale watchers: record sightings for right whales!

Wow, that is exciting -- seems like this summer%26#39;s whale-watching could be as good as, if not better than, last year%26#39;s ';season';, which itself was the best in years. Thanks for sharing the good news!

myspace icons

Places to stay Cape Cod

Hi - my husband and I are from the UK and going to Boston %26amp; Cape Cod for a holiday. We are planning on leaving Boston Thurs 31 May to travel around Cape Code for 5/6 days. We haven%26#39;t booked any accommodation in Cape Cod - hoping to just travel around and see what we find. However since this is over the weekend should we think about booking accommodation in advance or do you think we will be OK? Looking to stay in small, quiet family-run B%26amp;Bs or small hotels. Also, would it be worth finding a base over the weekend and staying put for a few days, rather than getting caught in traffic? Appreciate any tips you can provide. Thanks.

Places to stay Cape Cod

I would suggest you book one place mid cape - either in Chatham -Harwich or Dennisport - this will allow travel to all areas with out the hassle of thinking of another place.

Places to stay Cape Cod

I highly recommend the Tern Inn in West Harwich, which is mid-Cape.

We stay there often and will be going back at the end of June.

Here%26#39;s their website:

www.theterninn.com

While you can be spontaneous about your lodging at the end of May, you would be well advised to do your homework ahead of time to find the areas you will enjoy the most and narrow down your lodging choices....Cape Cod is a large place. There is a very different feeling to the upper-cape (near the bridge, including Falmouth), mid-cape (more populated, commercial area with motels/large hotels), lower-cape (charming towns with some development) and outer-cape (least commercial area with fabulous National Seashore beaches).

Once you have identified the areas, check the web sites of several places to see if they meet your criteria. I would go to the local chambers of commerce sites like www.eastham.com or www.wellfleet.com for small family-run B+B%26#39;s. Personally I prefer small B+B lodging on the outer cape because it has (IMO) a more authentic Cape Cod feeling to the packed in feeling of lodging in the mid-cape. Perhaps you will find something mid-cape this early in the season, but once school is out in mid-June the mid-cape is packed full with families.....great for them....perhaps not so wonderful for you and your hubby.

To be on the safe side I would book 3 weekend nights ahead of time on the outer-cape where you will be central to both Provincetown and Chatham and surrounded by ocean and bay beaches. My personal favorite is Fort Hill Bed and Breakfast in Eastham, but there are several places along 6A in Brewster that might also appeal to you. Good luck! We hope you will post a trip report when you return.

Thanks for all the advice. Weather has changed so it may be easier to get accommodation than we first thought. Rain is forecast. unfortunately....here%26#39;s hoping the sun comes back. Thanks again.

I cannot recommend The English Garden B and B enough. It is centrally located in Dennisport across from the beach. Dine at nearby Ocean House. Magnificent.

Pizzeria Regina-best one in Boston?

I noticed that there is more than one location for Pizzeria Regina in Boston - is one better than another?? Is the one in Faneuil Hall as good as the one on Thatcher Street (is that it??

There have been a number of people in this forum that claim Pizzeria Regina is the best in Boston, but now i don%26#39;t know if they meant one location over another-pls help

Coming to Boston on Friday!

Pizzeria Regina-best one in Boston?

The Pizzeria Regina on Thatcher St. in the North End is the one that is the ';Best';. Don%26#39;t bother with the other locations.

Pizzeria Regina-best one in Boston?

The pies at Regina on Thacher are so much fresher than Faneuil Hall. Plus, you can%26#39;t beat the crabby waitresses and 1960%26#39;s decor of the original. Going to alternative Regina locations, especially in malls, is doing your tastebuds a disservice!

Thanks so much - i figured as much!

Thatcher St no question.

Definitely go to the Thatcher Street one. There the pizzas are baked in coal-fired ovens. (I don%26#39;t think the Faneuil Hall ones are.). Try to go during off-peak dining hours since the lines can be literally out the door but if you have to wait, it%26#39;s worth it!

The Spinachi et Pomodori pie is my fave there -- and with fresh spinach %26amp; basil leaves and cherry tomatoes atop the cheeses, it%26#39;s almost health food!

Thatcher St. is the original location. In the %26#39;80s (I think) Regina decided to become a chain and opened a lot of new locations, some now closed. Although they are very good for a chain, they are still a chain restaurants. Luckily, they never messed with the original location. It is far superior to any other Pizzeria Regina. So go for Thatcher St. (Note: They use a lot of olive oil on their pizzas. They claim they can tell tourists from locals by whether they blot the oil off the pizza or ask for extra oil.)