a few last questions about our trip up to boston.

[goyguy]

I didn't mention the fine beaches of Gloucester (Wingaersheek rules even though I can't spell it) 'cause it would take a cab ride or long walk to reach them. I also looove me some Rockport - spent a full weekend there earlier this month - but its beaches? Bleccchhh! Other than the upscale-leaning (and accordingly priced) My Place by the Sea there really aren't any good "nice" restaurants there either. I'm partial to three spots in particular for casual meals, but they're not unique enough to justify the journey.

The Massachusetts "blue laws" have grown weaker over time, but many liquor stores stay closed on Sundays by choice. And I think the law still dictates that business hours be reduced on that day of the week.

Grabbing a cab is definitely a non-issue at night. Most of the time you'll be able to saunter over to JFK/UMass Station and find some lined up on the east side. It's not quite as easy to flag one down as it is in NYC (where you'll often experience multiple cabbies squabbling over who saw you first.) But you should soon spot a glowing roof light whatever busy street you walk up to. If it's "crazy late" - no more MBTA - and the ballpark area is still teeming with humanity, from Kenmore Square walk west on Beacon St or east on Commonwealth Ave. Empty or just-vacated taxis should be easy to find in either direction. If on Beacon, keep your eyes open for "strays" as you progress towards Park Drive. Available cabs cruise Park Dr pretty reliably, and if one's headed north that pulls over for you the driver's almost always fine with making a quick U-turn. A short block past there is the Brookline border, where for whatever reason the hacks like to cluster at all hours. If on Comm Ave, it's a pleasant (except for one ugly overpass) stroll over to main-artery Mass. Ave. Taxis gravitate toward Mass. Ave like moths to a porch light.

[phillies2011]

Originally Posted by goyguy

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Grabbing a cab is definitely a non-issue at night.

great i wasn't sure what it would be like. If you know where they are cabs are plentiful in philly... but in other places they are no where to be found and so since i'm not familiar with boston just wanted to get a number in case i'm not seeing any on the street.


thanks a lot though for the advice and everyone who helped. you guys have been a great help!

[phillies2011]

back again with another question haha

the girlfriend wants to know where in boston one would go for some quirky shopping. not like major department stores. like independently owned boutiques, weird shops, vintage stores, etc... Like in philly there's south street or northern liberties. So is there like a hip shopping district in boston? this sounds awful for to me... but considering i've monopolized most of the trip with history, red sox games, and beer tours... i guess I owe it to her to let her do something she likes.

[mdovell]

Newbury street would be smaller shops but they can be high end.

Welcome to Newbury Street, Boston

If you wanted to do something a bit more mainstream with shopping then the south shore plaza in braintree

I'd recommend some of the museums. Museum of Science can be ok..personally not much changes outside of major exhibitions. Museum of Fine Arts I think is free on wensdays..it's huge and they have a few places to eat and get drink inside. It's near northeastern but it's the summer and chances are not many will be there.

[Cantabridgienne]

Skip South Shore Plaza-it's just a suburban shopping mall, nothing you don't have in Philly.

The Back Bay (where Newbury st is) is a good choice-mix of high-end, some chains, boutiques, some vintage. South End is also good for boutiques. For more funky/lower end you need to get out of the more touristy areas: take the T to Allston or Central Square.

[lukec]

Newbury Street is popular as noted.

The North End has always been know for its food, but more and more boutique shops are popping up. Ever since the Greenway opened, the connection between Fanueil Hall and the North End is becoming more and moer popular. Fanueil Hall is a little touristy, but fun. Its a cool little area for food, shops and strolling.

If your on Newbury Street, you might want to scoot over to Charles Street as well. Its another classic Boston street, known for its old Brahmin reputation, and its very famous antique stores. But it has some very unique shops. I saw Kid Rock picking up some leather and cowboy duds there. Go figure, Kid Rock buying cowboy stuff on Beacon Hill. The times they are a changing.