East Coast Adventures: Boston

Out of the blue in September, one of my closest friends from college asked me if I wanted to go with her to Boston and Philadelphia to visit two very good friends from school. After debating about it all day, I said yes! We planned our trip in October, coincidentally just in time to experience the beautiful fall colors that are found throughout the East Coast. Our plan was to arrive in Boston on a Thursday/Friday, spend all day there on Friday and Saturday with a friend, take the bus over night from Boston to Philly, and then spend all day Sunday and Monday with another friend. It was a whirlwind trip, but definitely worth the sore feet and tired bodies!

I had been to Boston many years ago on my eight grade East Coast trip, but I was really excited to see the city again. Without much of a plan and only a few must-sees, the three of us set off to explore the city. We saw the grad school my friend attends and the tempting little coffee shop connected. We then headed into the city to eat at Quincy Market, a place I frequented several times on my previous excursion in Boston. This led to the wharf and a glimpse of the beautiful Boston Harbor.

After, we made our way to another part of the city to meet up with an old friend of mine from home. We have known each other for most of our lives and it was so good to connect with her. We met at the coffee shop she works at and, lo and behold, a Georgetown Cupcakes extension was right next door! In case you missed this post, I have recently been craving cupcakes, and it is all because I binge-watched the show DC Cupcakes. This reality TV series follows two sisters who open up a cupcake store in Washington D.C. that is called Georgetown Cupcakes. I knew there were other stores around the country, but I had no idea that there was one in Boston! Of course, we went in and got cupcakes, and let me tell you, it was the best cupcake I had ever had. The four of us were all quite satisfied with the cupcakes we purchased and quickly consumed.

After finishing out cupcakes and trying to convince ourselves not to buy another, the four of us meandered through Boston Public Garden. It was a serene park surrounded by the city and the perfect place for a photo op. We were able to rest our weary feet and enjoy each other’s company.

Making our way back to my friend’s apartment, we ate at a fun but crowded Mexican restaurant with the most delicious quesadilla I have ever tasted. If you can’t tell, most of this trip revolved around food!

The next day, we explored Harvard University. Just walking around the campus inspired me to be studious, and the brick buildings reminded me of my not-so-long-ago college days.

 On our way into the city, we stopped to watch a bit of the Head of the Charles Regatta, otherwise known as a big rowing competition for those who are not athletically knowledgeable (including myself). I did not really know what was going on, but it was awesome to watch such an interesting sport.

Boston is one of the most history-filled cities in America, and I thought it would be remiss not to see at least one historical landmark. A famous quote from the Revolutionary War is “One if by land, two if by sea”. This was in regards to a warning signal that was to be given from Old North Church to alert the revolutionaries which way the British were entering the city. If the British were coming by land, one lantern would be placed in the steeple; two lanterns would signal an arrival by sea. This church is very old and famous, but it is tucked away in a quaint little neighborhood in the middle of Boston. Honestly, if you weren't looking for it, you could pass right by Old North Church. However, the history there is fascinating and so important to our nation's legacy.

After admiring the church both inside and out, we wandered through the little community that surrounded it, The streets had cute restaurants, stores, coffee shops, and balconies that were so inviting and charming. It seemed like such a wonderful place to live!

After eating dinner at a great burger place, my friend and I made our way to the bus station to ride the five hour bus. It was hard to say goodbye to our friend in Boston, and it was wonderful spending a couple days with her exploring the city. However, we had more adventures waiting for us in Philadelphia!

A post about my time in Philly is coming soon, so check back for it soon.