Boston & New England holidays

Holiday highlights

Home to many parks, Boston and New England are most beautiful in the fall, when these pretty open spaces are famously transformed into flame-red and burnt-orange wonderlands. During this season of change a solitary stroll through one of the city’s rural pockets is truly unforgettable.

Discover more of Boston’s compelling history by walking the Freedom Trail, a 2½-mile route in downtown Boston and Charlestown that takes you past 16 historic sites including museums, churches, burial grounds and parks. You could also cross the Charles River to Cambridge and stroll through Harvard’s hallowed courtyards. Experience Boston’s zest for sport by watching the city’s beloved baseball team Red Sox play at Fenway Park. Nearly a century old, this impressive stadium fills with eager cheers during a game, so go along and soak up the infectious atmosphere.

One of Boston’s most popular attractions is the Cheers Bar, where the television series of the same name was set. There are actually two Cheers Bars in the city – the original bar that inspired the series and the replica bar of the set. Both have a friendly ambience and serve hearty all-American cuisine.

For a scenic walk or picnic head to Boston Common, the country’s oldest park. Covering nearly 50 acres, it was once host to grazing cattle and even used for public hangings, while famous names such as Dr Martin Luther King Jr delivered speeches here. And don’t forget to hit the shops for a plethora of tax-free bargains. Favourite retail spots include Newbury Street, Copley Place and Filene’s Basement.

As well as the before-mentioned Cheers Bar, you’ll find plenty of renowned dining options in Boston. Perhaps the city’s most famous delicacy is freshly-caught native seafood, so don’t miss the chance to feast on lobster, scallops and flaky cod while you’re here. Fantastic seafood restaurants include Union Oyster House, Legal Sea Foods and Summer Shacks. You’ll also find a great range of local food at Quincy Market.

New England itself is a perfect touring destination, be it self-drive or by coach and is best viewed in the fall, when the scenery turns a kaleidoscope of colours. Wide roads and endless vistas mean every journey is a pleasure and there’s a real mixture of places to stop off. Most will spend a night or two in Cape Cod, whale watching and enjoying the succulent seafood before heading further up the coast to Portland or Bar Habor. Most then choose to head inland to the beautiful White Mountains and to stop off at one of the historic villages that are scattered across the area and indulge in some outdoor activities. In New England the possibilities are endless and you can tailor make your itinerary to your exact specifications to allow you to experience it your way, stopping off at places of interest and exploring as much of the beautiful region as possible.