Occasionally I like to visit Massachusetts’ capital and largest city, Boston. Founded in 1630, it’s one of the oldest cities in the U.S. It is also, however one of the most up and coming cities, having undergone major changes in the last couple decades. Every time I go, I discover something new. On my recent visit to Boston, here are a few true springtime highlights that I would recommend to visitors and locals alike.
TO VISIT: The Isabella Stewart Garden Museum
The museum which bears her name also stands as a testament to the vision of Isabella Stewart Gardner, one of the foremost female patrons of the arts. She was a patron and friend of leading artists and writers of her time, and also the visionary creator of what remains one of the most remarkable and intimate collections of art in the world today and a dynamic supporter of artists of her time, encouraging music, literature, dance, and creative thinking across artistic disciplines.
While over thirty years ago, two thieves dressed as police officers bluffed their way into Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and made away with $500 million of artwork by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas, (a mystery still to be solved,) what remains here is still breathtaking. Browse the sculptures, paintings and architectural artworks that touched Isabella, in this gorgeous museum, evocative of a 15th-century Venetian palace. Visitors can take a moment to reflect in the iconic interior Courtyard; an astonishing work of art, combining plants, sculpture, and architectural elements.
TO DINE: Del Frisco’s (on the waterfront)
When it comes to waterfront dining, it doesn’t get better than this. Located in the new Seaport District development (part of the historical Liberty Wharf) Del Frisco’s features spectacular harbor views, and a sprawling waterfront patio and a grand circular bar. The main dining room is flanked deep booths, private and semiprivate dining rooms, while the sleek modern interior features a one-of-a-kind art collection designed to create an extraordinary Boston steakhouse experience.
Cuisine wise, whether you go surf, turf (or both) you won’t be disappointed. Start your dining experience with signature classics, such as their Chilled Shrimp Cocktail, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes with Cajun Lobster Sauce, or Heirloom Tomatoes & Burrata with Aged Balsamic Reduction & Pesto. Mains wise, choose from a variety of top notch steak options, from Filet Minon to Ribeye and Lambchops or go for their delectable Sesame-Seared Tuna with Soy Ginger Glaze & Wasabi Cream (a personal favorite.) All are ordered accompanied by sides, that are gratifying enough to be meals in themselves, such as their melt-in-your-mouth Lobster Macaroni & Cheese!
TO EXPLORE: The Surrounding Beaches of Gloucester
These include Wingaersheek Beach, Good Harbor Beach and Half Moon Beach.
Wingaerseek Beach – Situated in the western part of Gloucester at the end of Atlantic Street off Rte. 133 and Concord Street, this beautiful beach runs along the Annisquam River and Ipswich Bay. At low tide the beach extends out for hundreds of yards and a long sandbar is exposed that makes for a great place to walk.
Good Harbor Beach – Located on Thatcher Road, Rte 127A, Good Harbor is a beautiful beach with lovely, white sand facing the Atlantic. At low tide, one can walk out to Salt Island while at high tide one can enjoy body surfing or boogie boards.
Half Moon Beach – Half Moon is a small quiet beach located in historic Stage Fort Park. It gets its’ name from the crescent shape of the beach.