A balmy Boston weekend seems like a grand time to add the rock classic “Dirty Water” to your playlist, jump in the car, open the sun roof, and belt out “Oh, Boston you’re my home” while heading into Beantown. If your heart beats in New England, it is only natural to feel a particular swell of affection for Boston; perhaps a deep desire to spread your arms from Fenway Park to the Charles River and give the Hub a giant bear hug. Why wait to grab a Fenway Frank, walk the Freedom Trail, enjoy a Swan Boat ride, or board an amphibious landing vehicle on a Duck Tour? Whether you want to celebrate the city’s rich history or discover its newest gems, Boston’s pulse is beating with a plethora of possibilities for summer pleasure.
Stay
Take a midnight ride to the Revere Hotel Boston Common. Toast to good times in the dazzling Emerald Lounge and spend a night in one of the 325 guest rooms, 30 deluxe suites, or the Presidential Suite. The Revere’s independent spirit and modern edge is expressed through eclectic furnishing and innovative spaces; amenities include a film and live entertainment venue dubbed Theatre 1, a theatrical meeting and events space called Studio 57, and an indoor pool; a 16,000-square-foot outdoor space called Rooftop at Revere was unveiled in early spring. Beautiful views of the heart of Boston complete the drama of this beautiful new scene. 200 Stuart St., 617-482-1800
Stephanie’s on Newbury
Eat
Eat your grilled-and-marinated heart out at South Boston’s newest eatery, Boston Chops, where top chops and steaks are expertly prepared and where seasonal sides celebrate the region’s freshest picks. Save room for the sticky toffee pudding. 1375 Washington St., 617-227-5011.
Celebrate Boston’s famous North End with a glass of Barolo in the intimate wood bar at Tresca. Owners Harvey Wilk and Ray Bourque have created a Tuscan-style ambience by offering savory dishes like Cioppino Amalfi and a decadent chocolate cake for dessert that goes down well with a fresh, hot cappuccino. 233 Hanover St., 617-742-8240.
Stop by Stephanie’s on Newbury for Sunday brunch. What better way to enjoy a weekend morning than sitting outside on Newbury Street enjoying frittered French toast and a custom Bloody Mary? 190 Newbury St., 617-236-0990
See
On Sundays through October, visit SoWa Open Market, a great place to browse the wares of indie designers, enjoy a farmers’ market, and sample goodies from a collection of food trucks. 460 Harrison Ave., 800-403-8305.
Enjoy Boston’s Rose F. Kennedy Greenway, a mile-long “ribbon of contemporary parks” weaving through Chinatown, Dewey Square, Four Point Channel, the Wharf District, and the North End. Relax in a shady spot, splash in the Rings Fountain, or enjoy public art displays. 185 Kneeland St., 617-292-0020.
Check out the Summer Series at Boston Harbor Hotel, where you can enjoy live music and classic films under a canopy of stars during the week. 70 Rowes Wharf, 617-439-7000.
Of course, summer in Boston wouldn’t be complete without settling in along the Charles River Esplanade for the 40th annual Boston Pops Fireworks Spectactular. Let freedom ring!