Friday, November 7, 2014

Exploring Boston During a Work Trip

Boston from the sky

Last week I started a new job AND was sent to Boston for training. It was quite the whirlwind, but in the best way. While the reason for my visit was to learn about my new job, I was already there, and my favorite thing in the world to do is travel, so naturally I found a way to take in the city when I could.

Training was every day from 8:30am to 5:30pm (even lunch was in the building) so I didn't get to see very much outside of the classroom, but I made it a point to utilize every spare minute I could. I'd been to Beantown before but never seen a New England fall and that was on the top of my list; however, by the time I was done working for the day it was too late to take in the foliage. I had to get creative! I decided to run across the street to a park during a 10-minute break and was able to snap a bunch of pictures and get back in time.

Fall Foliage in Cambridge, Mass.
Fall Leaves and Riding Boots


I also woke up an extra hour early to walk around Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden. That gave me the opportunity to see even more fall colors, plus walk along Beacon Hill and get a great view of the Massachusetts State Capitol.

Massachusetts Sate Capital BuildingBoston Common on a Fall MorningBeacon Hill, Boston
The other thing I took advantage of was the amazing seafood Boston has to offer, including the Union Oyster House located not too far from Faneuil Hall. It's a historical landmark, established in 1826 within an already existing building, and the oldest restaurant in America. So much history! You really feel like you're stepping back in time while dining there. While I didn't think my oysters Rockefeller were special, the lobster ravioli was the best dishes I've ever had. Go there!

Union Oyster House dinner

Also a must if you like seafood, Neptune Oyster in the North End. It's small and you wait in a line outside before squeezing into a packed bar, but totally worth the wait. While I don't love raw oysters, the selection is extensive, the flavors of each are provided, and you can order individually, so I tried a few. Not too bad! But their main attraction in the lobster roll. I'd seen this place featured on various food shows and knew it was going to be delicious. At $27 it's expensive but SO worth it. Holy cow. The chunks of lobster were huge and tasted amazing. I think it ruined lobster rolls for me. There's no way I'm finding a better one, especially here in Southern California.

Neptune Oyster House Lobster Roll

I had to leave my last day of training early to catch my flight but on my way home I was lucky enough to walk by the Old Granary Burial Ground, founded in 1660. It's so amazing that some of the headstones are still readable after centuries. This cemetery is the final resting place for many American Revolution Patriots, including Paul Revere.

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As far as hotel, I stayed at the Omni Parker House. It's the perfect location, right in the Financial District on the Freedom Trail, and across the street from Old City Hall. Attractions within walking distance include Boston Common, the North End, Quincy Market, and the wharf. It's on the pricier side, and said to be haunted (if that thing scares you), but the staff is friendly and it was build in 1855 so the whole place is really beautiful. Plus the bar serves THE BEST clam chowder I've ever tasted. No joke.



15 comments:

Julia said...

Beautiful pictures!! I would love to visit Boston someday!

Marie said...

love your pictures. I'm so bummed that we didn't get to meet. I literally walked by your hotel every day as my office is right around the corner. Did you happen to try their "Parker House" rolls? Best in the city!! Hope your new job is going well!

SMD @ lifeaccordingtosteph said...

I'm glad you got to see a little foliage on break!

The food looks delicious.

Lauren said...

there are NO good lobster rolls out here...the east coast will ruin you ;)

Emily @ Martinis | Bikinis said...

Boston looks gorgeous! Love all those fall leaves and the lobstah roll looks awesome too!

Kerry @ Till Then Smile Often said...

I am so glad you got a taste of Fall in New England it really is one of the best things in life. Next time we have to meet up!

Anonymous said...

So glad you got to get some leaf peepin in! The Seafood in Boston is amazing.

The Southern Thing said...

This makes me miss Boston, especially around this time of the year! It is just so gorgeous! I'm glad you got to experience it while you were there!

Selma @ Crazy Little World Of Mine said...

You really got creative...love your photos and recap. Boston is still on my list of cities to visit. Hopefully soon, like next year.

Kate at Green Fashionista said...

Beautiful pics, I'm glad you got to sneak in the foliage ;-)

Amanda - Voyage of the MeeMee said...

Oldest restaurant in America?! That's pretty cool!

C said...

All that food looks so disgusting. ;) LOL! I'm so glad you got to sneak in some sights and restaurants and leaves! You took great pictures! I hope your job is going well!!

Ashley @ A Cute Angle said...

Great photos! Boston is so pretty and so historic! I'd love to go back as an adult. Hope you had a great weekend!

~Ashley @ A Cute Angle
acutelifestyle.blogspot.com

Sabina@OceanblueStyle said...

OMG Leeann thanks so much for these awesome impressions. Boston is on top of my list and you mentioned everything I would expext to find in this amazing city. it really touched my heart and you just gave me a reason for wanting to visit sooner than later. Love clam chowder and lobster seriously are these oysters??? Love the history of Boston. All the best with your job. xo Sabina @Oceanblue Style

Crazy Shenanigans-JMO said...

I'm glad you were able to see some of the town!