I wouldn't say that I am a city boy, nor do I wish to live in it. However, living in the south shore of Massachusetts, in the middle of the woods with nothing to do, I often find myself traveling, just a stone's throw away, to one my favorite places in the area -- the wonderful, and beautiful bustling city of Boston Massachusetts. Yeah, you can argue that there are cities that are equally as beautiful and fantastic, like Chicago, or New York City, but what I can counter those statements with is what I have felt going into Boston every time I have visited; I always feel safe and at home, no matter what part of the city I am in. It may not seem very convincing, but I want to portray a few things that I believe make Boston truly stand out.
1. The Massachusetts Transit Authority is your friend.
Are you too lazy or afraid to drive into or around Boston? Why not take the Commuter Rail, or the "T?" I have driven into Boston a few times and it is honestly not that bad. Traffic can be a pain sometimes though, and parking garages can charge a hefty price for parking for more than two hours. Since I do not have that much money, I usually choose to take the T, or the subway trains, into Boston, since, as of today, a single entry Charlie Card costs $2.65. Riding the various transit systems are pretty feasible, and, by looking at a transit map, you can go to a variety places in and around Boston, and the state.
I usually start my journeys by driving to the Braintree or Quincy Adams station, parking in the garage offered, and taking the Red Line to Downtown Crossing, usually deciding on where to go next. Yes, you still have to pay to park at the station garages, although I have found the overall costs to be less expensive than the rates of the Boston garages. You have to admit, by looking at this map, I'm certain that anyone would have no problem going to where ever they needed or wanted to go while also saving money, time, and being able to take in the aspects of the city more efficiently.
2. The diversity of conventions.
Boston has a few convention centers, including The Hynes Convention Center, The Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, and The Boston Seaport World Trade Center, all of which host an assortment of different conventions. A couple of these conventions -- which I have previously written about -- are very well known, cater to those who love anime, video games, cosplay, or those who just love technology and having fun in a judgment free zone (well, progress still needs to be made in that category); these two prestigious events are PAX (Penny-Arcade Exposition) East and Anime Boston. These two conventions are, without a doubt, my favorites to attend, though they both fall between the months of March and May, leaving a huge gap of time I, as well as others, have to wait until they come back around. That is not to say that, for the rest of the year, there is nothing fun or quite possibly interesting to attend. In fact, most of these convention centers host events continuously throughout the year, leaving very few days in between when no events are taking place.
Alright, maybe anime or video games are not your cup of tea. In that case, you could always attend a few upcoming events, such as the New England Food Show 2017 on the 26-28 of February, 2017, or maybe you could attend the Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair on the 28-30 of October of this year. From Boston Comic-con, to car shows, and even a cannabis convention, there is always something to do or attend while in the area.
3. The New England Aquarium.
There is obviously more to do in the city than conventions, so why not stop at the New England Aquarium? I have always loved coming here for school field trips and past birthday parties, but as an adult, I can come here and be able to fully experience everything this wonderful place has to show. Various aquatic species swim in different tanks around the building, and each area is designated for a specific environment, like freshwater areas that mimic swamps or ponds, or even saltwater tanks for various fish and crustacean creatures found in the sea., even sharks and rays. The aquarium, though, does not limit itself to just fish, or lobsters; as soon as you walk into the tank area, they have a whole pool set up for penguins, and they house a few bird species and seals as well.
The most impressive feature of this venue is that the New England Aquarium is actively involved in helping with conservation and research. Workers are actively involved in protecting endangered species and fragile marine ecosystems in need of help, as well as saving the lives of various marine life by nursing them back to health and releasing them back into the wild.
Adverts like these could be found around Boston and even televised or advertised in commercials on television and radio in hopes of attracting more visitors or asking people to donate to the cause. So, if you like marine life and possibly want to help in conservation efforts, why not visit the aquarium and go to their gift shop, watch an informative movie in their IMAX theater, or even donate directly on their website?
4. Restaurants are literally everywhere.
According to TripAdvisor.com, there are currently 2,321 restaurants in Boston. These eateries can range from high class restaurants, to inexpensive pit stops, like McDonald's or Subway. They also vary from Italian, to Sushi, to the various places in China Town, and even places that specialize in seafood. I have not been to many of the available 2,321 restaurants, but I can say that if you find yourself around the Boston Commons, a great meal from Panera will satisfy anyone.
5. Every season is beautiful in Boston.
Not only does Boston experience all four seasons, but it is also home to different events that can easily keep people entertained, and make the Boston experience unique.
During the spring time, Boston hosts a wide variety of alcoholic drink tastings, arts and music festivals and shows which are extremely fun to attend. As for the summer, the Boston Common is the best place to be. When the weather is fair, the sun is out, and the temperatures are temperate, a soothing and relaxing ride on the Swan boats are a great way to spend the afternoon. In the fall, you can walk around residential areas, adorned with a scarf and cardigan, a nice decaf in one hand, and enjoy the colorful leaves on the many trees that line the street. Finally, the winter season is one of my favorites. There are two signature events that happen in the city, the first being the tree lighting ceremony near the State House. It is basically what it sounds like -- close to Christmas, a huge Christmas tree is clothed in decorative lights and lit in a ceremonious style, in an attempt to unite the citizens of Boston. The other event is First Night which is held on the night of December 31. The basis of this event is to celebrate the moments leading up to and after New Years.
There is never a dull moment in the city, and even though it is not one that never sleeps, there is still a ton you can do leading up to those bed time hours. If you have not been to Boston, please come visit. There are so many ways to get around, so many events and conventions to attend, and many places to grab a bite to eat. Just remember to watch your bank account while here; it may drain quicker than you might think.
