In Transit: Boston

She said, “I think I’ll go to Boston…I think I’ll start a new life, I think I’ll start it over where no one knows my name.”

“Boston” by Augustana has been one of my most-listened to songs over the past decade. The opening piano chords are instantly recognizable. And the song, as a whole, slowly escalates in intensity, which makes for an excellent lyrical or contemporary dance combination. The lyrics are some of the most beautiful I’ve ever heard, and are extremely relatable to anyone who’s ever dreamt of getting away and starting over.

I’ll soon be on my way to a city I’ve wanted to visit since I was young. This desire was amplified after meeting Nick (with his Irish roots), beginning my Boston Legal addiction, and drinking scotch. I’m glad I have waited to visit Boston as it’s a city I know I’ll appreciate tenfold now that I’m mature enough to soak in the vast history it has on offer. The home of over 50 universities, Boston is the most educated (and arguably, most picturesque) American city.

Fortunately, my friend Molly compiled a list outlining how to make the most of a weekend trip to Boston. I’ll be visiting with my boyfriend and two sisters, so I’ve drafted up a point-form itinerary of a few of the things we’d like to do:

Friday:

Sportello for dinner
Drink for a whiskey-based cocktail, and a toast to Denny Crane and Allan Shore.
Walk around Boston Common
Visit Faneuil Hall

Saturday:

Grab a cappuccino at Thinking Cup and stock up on Stumptown beans
Check out the Isabella Gardener Museum and Boston Museum of Science
Explore the Freedom Trail, starting at Boston Common (Bunker Hill, old North Church)
Walk down Boylston Street and Newbury Street and check out Back Bay
Stephanie’s on Newbury for dinner

Sunday:

Sample the sticky buns at Flour Bakery
Explore Cambridge and take a tour of Harvard University
Stop by the Coop, see the Harvard Club on Commonwealth Avenue (amazing Georgian architecture)
Have lunch at Barley’s Burgers, scenes from Good Will Hunting and The Social Network were filmed there.
Walk along the Charles River
Visit La Burdick for the best chocolates in Boston

Have you ever been to Boston? What are your must-sees?