JQ Louise

Halloween weekend is here, so order all the pumpkin spice and soak up spooky season. Luckily, there are plenty of fun things going on to keep us all busy this weekend in the city and nearby. But if nothing on this list sounds about right, check out the best cheap things to do or the best free things to do in Boston for fun all month long. When all else fails, rally up all of your friends for a boozy night out at one of the best bars in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston

Just because winter is upon us that doesn't mean your love of outdoor dining is forced into hibernation. Thanks to unique heaters, cozy private igloos, chalet vibes, firepits and cozy blankets, you can eat, drink and snuggle outside even in the dead of winter. We’ve gathered together some of the best restaurants in Boston with outdoor heaters for al fresco dining. So take a seat, grab a cocktail and a hearty meal, and let Mother Nature know you aren’t going anywhere. Need a little more help warming up, check out the best hot cocktails, best hot chocolate or best coffee in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

While all Bostonians may moan and groan come wintertime, we know some fun ways to get over the winter blues. We love skiing and snowboarding our way through the season, in fact, you'll find us at Stowe or Sugarbush most weekends. There are also tons of local ice-skating rinks and sledding spots so everyone can enjoy playing outside in the snow. For Bostonians who would rather embrace more of an après ski scene, check out our best restaurants with fireplaces. For other ways to get cozy beyond the confines of your apartment, grab a steaming hot bowl of the best ramen in Boston or snuggle up at one of the best cocktail bars in town.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best winter day trips from Boston. 

While the name suggests otherwise, Boston’s very own iconic dessert (it originated at the Omni Parker House) identifies more as a cake than pie. Sweet custard layered between yellow butter cake, then glazed with chocolate – what’s not to love? Here are a few of the best places around Boston to order Boston Cream Pie, from tried and true slices to unique takes on the classic (hello, donuts and pancakes). Looking for a different type of sweet? Check out our guides to the best pies, best donuts, and best ice cream in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

‘Tis the season when even the toughest of New Englanders reach for steaming hot cocoa, and luckily Boston is brimming with rich, sweet, spicy (and occasionally boozy) options. We've gathered up the best hot chocolates in and around Boston. With a cup of any one of these cozy drinks in your hands, not only you will feel festive and toasty, but you will also feel your fingers. Hot cocoa pairs well with strolling through the best parks in Boston or following a spin on the ice at one of the best skating rinks in Boston. If hot chocolate doesn't do enough to satisfy your sweet teeth, check out our guide to the best desserts in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

Winter in the Commonwealth is brisk, but if you bundle up and clutch a hot drink with your mittens, it can be charming. One of the best winter activities, hitting an ice rink, is beloved by both locals and tourists, and the Hub has no shortage of rinks fit for all levels. After a chilly skate, be sure to warm up with a mug of one of the best hot chocolates in Boston or a cup of joe from one of the best coffee shops in Boston. And for more winter thrills, check out the best spots for skiing near Boston or the best snowboarding near Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston

Bostonians take winter fun seriously, it’s an integral part of living in the Northeast. Truly, the only way to survive the winter cold is to plan fun activities that get you out of the house. One of the best ways to avoid cabin fever this time of year is to get out of the city. And, a little day trip can really lift the spirits. Explore all that New England has to offer, including quaint, historic towns and shoreline stops, as well as gaming destinations and, of course, buzzing ski towns. And if you don’t have time to head of Boston right now, stick stay closer to home and enjoy the city’s best attractions, best free things to do and best museums in Boston.RECOMMENDED: The coziest Airbnb cabins near Boston

Is there anything like a great pie this time of year in New England? Boston has some amazing pies that pair well with a cup of coffee and a scoop of ice cream. Whether you’re a fan of classic apple pie or something more indulgent like chocolate bourbon pecan or perhaps a Boston Cream we have gathered all the places to pick up a pie this year. And if you are still in a sweet mood why not visit a few stops from our best donuts in Boston or the best ice cream in Boston lists. But after all that sugar, a walk in one of Boston’s best parks may also be in order! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

The Back Bay is one of Boston’s most storied neighborhoods. Brimming with historic brownstones, it’s filled with lively bars and restaurants, as well as endless spots to do some shopping along Newbury and Boylston Streets. A true blend of formal standbys and newer eateries, the Back Bay restaurant lineup has a little something for everyone.  Looking for more than just a place to nosh? Check out our Back Bay neighborhood guide for more tips on enjoying this historical community, plus our list of the best bars in Boston and the best things to do in Boston.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

Celebrating Halloween in Boston is a no-brainer. As one of the oldest cities in the country, this town is rife with any kind of spook imaginable—whether it’s one of our creepy old graveyards, a verifiably haunted hotel or sites of bloody massacres that would put your favorite true-crime podcast to shame. And if all that’s not enough, we’re only a quick broom ride from Salem, which boasts a whole other kind of frightening history—and real-life witches everywhere you turn! But Halloween in Boston doesn’t have to be all that spine-tingling. Keep reading for various fun ideas, including Barbie-themed dance parties in former (probably haunted) prisons, floating costume soirees and suggestions on where to get your costumes and pumpkins for the season. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Boston

As the crisp autumn breeze is telling you, New England is heading full steam into fall – when the foliage becomes fiery and the apple cider pipes hot. There are countless activities to allow you to bask in the beauty of the season, and pumpkin picking is a must-do for locals and visitors alike. Ditch the pre-picked varieties at the grocery store checkout counter and head to one of these local farms near Boston, where you can hitch a ride on a wagon and choose your own stylish squash. For more seasonal activities, check out where to see the best fall foliage in Boston, where to go apple picking near Boston, and where to get the best hot chocolate in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston

Halloween will be here before we know it, so we have started gathering the best ways to get spooky this year. However, if you want to avoid anything scary, check out our list of the best places to go pumpkin picking near Boston for a little wholesome fun. But if you want some fun ideas for the whole family, read our guide to Halloween in Boston for haunted houses and other fun activities.RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston

Table Caffé is a North End favorite for gelato and is the sweetest offering from founder Jen Royal. Chef-owner of TABLE Restaurant, Mercato & Caffé in the North End, Jen has continued to push the boundaries to offer people a place to come together over food. Table Caffé’s homemade gelato brings a little bit of the North End here to Fenway and it couldn’t be the sweeter treat. 

The Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston is truly a sight to behold. From the moment you step into the hotel's lobby, you are transported to another world. The stunning lobby is a true masterpiece, with its high ceilings, intricate molding, and sparkling chandeliers. One of the things that really sets the Fairmont Copley Plaza apart is the attention to detail. Starting in the lobby, its plush seating areas, gorgeous marble floors, and stunning artwork on the walls make it a grand place to start off any trip to Boston. Whether you're here for a business meeting, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, you'll feel instantly at home in this luxurious space. What's truly remarkable about the lobby at the Fairmont Copley Plaza is how it manages to strike the perfect balance between grandeur and warmth. Despite its opulence, the space feels welcoming and inviting, with a rare sense of intimacy in a hotel of this size. One of the standout features of the lobby is the iconic lobby clock, a beloved Boston landmark that has been a fixture in the hotel since it first opened its doors in 1912. The clock is a symbol of the hotel's history and its connection to the city, and it serves as a reminder of the timeless elegance that is at the heart of the Fairmont Copley Plaza experience. The rooms in the hotel are classic, yet bright. Opt for a room with a view of Copley Plaza and you will feel a part of the action. Also, make time to dine or at least grab drinks at OAK Long Bar + Kitchen. Often

Boston is basically the capital of Irish America... and Southie is the Irish capital of Boston. Thousands of people throw on anything green and head down to South Boston to celebrate St. Patrick’s each year. The day kicks off with a time-honored “St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast”, where politicians sing Irish drinking songs, recite limericks and roast their opponents. This local ritual sets the stage for one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S., complete with floats, marching bagpipers and of course lots of politicians, many of whom actually have Irish blood in their veins. Pubs along the route and throughout Boston overflow with merrymakers and holligans all day long—so be prepared. Be sure to check out our list of other St. Patrick’s Day Events in Boston, keep our list of the best Irish pubs in Boston handy and peruse our list of the best burgers in Boston for a place to soak up everything up when the night comes to an end. When is the St. Patrick's Day Parade? Sunday, March 19, 2022 at 1pm. Where is the St. Patrick's Day Parade? The parade takes place in South Boston. It starts at West Broadway and Dorchester Ave, continues along West Broadway to East Broadway, then turns and heads back west, ending on Dorchester Ave. See the official map of the St. Patrick's Day Parade    Other tips *Will it be cold or warm? It's always a crapshoot. Wear layers and don’t forget your green! *Alcohol is not allowed along the route. Keep it at the bars or your house parties. Po

1928 Beacon Hill is a new hidden gem on Beacon Hill run by Chef Victor Valencia. Located half a block up from Charles St. on Mt. Vernon, this spot feels as if it has always been there, which is the key to the making of a new classic. The prohibition era cocktails served in a speakeasy-style space is just the place you will want to cozy up in every Friday night.

Chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette recently added an Italian-inspired restaurant to their fantastic local line-up (Coppa, Toro, Little Donkey), and we’re so glad they did. The seafood inspired menu utilizes fresh ingredients, including in-season produce from the Copley Square Farmers Market. The spacious Back Bay restaurant serves coastal delights including a half dozen crudos, grilled Scituate lobster and an excellent selection of spritzes.

Located at the foot of Beacon Hill, Florina serves up extra large pizzaa and sandwiches. Cheese pizza by the slice is $3.75 and a very hefty “That Sandwich”, which is made with breaded chicken, prosciutto, roasted red pepper & fresh mozzarella with white balsamic vinaigrette is $12.25. Barstool Sports, “El Pres,” said in his review on Barstool “it’s a very traditional” quality pizza and we have to agree. 

The North End is home to many pizza places, and we all have our favorites, but Ducali Pizza is especially worth a visit because they have a full cocktail list. So not only can you enjoy lots of delicious and creative pizzas, but you can also enjoy a spritz or two as well. Only downside is they don’t sell slices, you have to buy a full pizza, but there are small personal sized pizzas starting at $10 each and large pizzas starting at $18 for cheese. 

Next Door is another amazing speakeasy that opened this year in Boston. Located in Eastie, just a short walk from the Maverick T stop on the Blue Line, it is accessible no matter which neighborhood you live in. The entrance is just behind Pazza on Porter, and you must know the secret code to get in. Once you enter, you feel as if you have stepped back in time. The chic bar and over the top cocktails make it a wonderful place to spend an evening.

This is the last weekend that Broadway in Boston will present Wicked at the Citizens Bank Opera House. This classic cannot be missed! Please note that attendees are currently required to wear face masks except when eating or drinking. Show times: Friday 8PM Saturday 2PM Saturday 8PM Sunday 1PM

On select Fridays in July and August the ICA is hosting an evening of art and live music from 6-9PM. Admission to ICA Summer Sessions is included with a general admission museum ticket, and are always free for members to attend. And if you visit the museum during the day you can come back that evening as long as you keep your ticket!  This Friday July 22nd will feature music by Lilah! Get tickets here.

Boston Lights is an interactive experience at Franklin Park Zoo that is sure to impress visitors with more than 55 large-scale displays made up of hundreds of colorful lanterns. The lanterns create luminous scenes from the rainforest, whimsical ocean displays with creatures of the deep, glowing corridors of lotus and bamboo, traditional Asian lanterns and a stunning 66-foot-long rose corridor. There is even a stunning 82-foot-long “octopus tunnel” that is sure to surprise and delight guests of all ages.

Hecate is the coolest new bar that has opened in Boston proper in the past few years. Owned and operated by the same team behind Krasi, this underground speakeasy feels as if it belongs in New York City, rather than Boston in the best way. As you enter, your eyes slowly adjust to the darkness and the bartenders, who are referred to as your “spirit guides” whip up the stylish drinks in the background as you wonder who else has managed to snag a table at the coolest spot in town.

Welcome to Time Out Boston's official guide to a trick-or-treating in Boston on Halloween. We’ve scoured the city's nooks and crannies to unearth the best, most family-friendly trick-or-treat destinations that Boston has to offer. Whether you're new to the area or a long-time resident, this is your one-stop resource for planning the perfect Halloween night for your little goblins, witches or warlocks. From the charming cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill to the vibrant neighborhoods of Dorchester, our list covers every corner of the city. We'll walk you through the must-visit streets where residents go all out to create spooky, enchanting over the top displays, ensuring that your children experience the true spirit of Halloween. To help you navigate the city with ease, we've included essential information, such as safety tips and nearby attractions for post-trick-or-treating fun. So, grab your costumes, load up on candy bags and plastic pumpkin buckets, and prepare for a bewitching adventure in Boston. Where to go trick-or-treating in Boston Back Bay: Marlborough Street from Berkeley Street to Fairfield Street will be closed from 5:30-8:30pm on October 31 Beacon Hill: Most streets will be closed from 4-8pm on October 31 for trick-or-treating Charlestown: “Trick or Treat or Bust” on Tuesday, October 31 from 4 – 7 p.m. at BCYF Charlestown. And the area around Monument Square will be closed to cars from 4-8pm on Halloween.  Dorchester: “Trails to Treats Boo Fest” on Tuesday, Oct

Travellers, listen up. European airline Turkish Airlines is providing a two-night stay in a 4-star hotel for economy class travellers – and a three-night stay in a 5-star hotel for business class passengers – completely free when taking advantage of their ‘stopover program.’ This latest offering, usually only reserved for those flying in business or first class, might sound too good to be true. But trust us, it’s totally legit.  The program, initially launched in 2017, extended accommodations to US travellers this year. Passengers choosing to add a few days in Istanbul will receive a hotel voucher that can be redeemed on the airline’s website after their flight ticket purchase. Turkish Airlines General Manager Bilal Ekşi commented, ‘We aim to show the Turkish hospitality and unique wonders of Istanbul to our passengers opting for stopover accommodation service, while contributing to tourism in Türkiye and increasing the number of transfer passengers flying Turkish Airlines. ‘Travellers can also increase the length of their initial free-of-charge accommodations with advantageous Turkish Airlines prices at contracted hotels to discover even more of Istanbul.’ The airline also gives you a few tips on tours to take and places to visit during your time in Istanbul. If you want a fast but thorough overview of the city, they recommend booking a tour with Istanbul Tour Studio. Wanna check out one of the newest rooftops in town? Head to Okra for drinks with a 360-degree view of the ci

Gross news, there’s an invasive species in town and we should all hate it so much. Yes, the invasive spotted lanternfly, which has been plaguing New York City all summer, made its way to the greater Boston area this week. An infestation has been found in Wellesley, officials announced late last week.  Wellesley received word this week from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) of an infestation near Carisbrooke Reservation, reports NBC News Boston. What is a spotted lanternfly?  Spotted lanternflies (Lycorma delicatula or “SLF”), while not new to the Bay State, are being found in more communities across the Commonwealth. The spotted lanternfly was first found in the United States in Pennsylvania in September 2014, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Native to China, these creepy crawlies can actually be very devastating to the ecosystem and agriculture here in the U.S. Why are spotted lanternflies so bad? The bugs feed on plant sap, which causes a lot of damage to plants, especially grapes, as well as  maple trees, hops, blueberries and over 100 other host plants, according to the Department of Agricultural Resources. They also excrete a sticky waste product that coats everything around them, which ferments, grows fungus and smells, apparently.  With all these charming attributes, you’re probably wondering what you can do. A note from our friends in NYC, who’ve been dealing with these bugs: Kill them. Immediately. Also, destroy their eggs.

The 2023 Head of the Charles Regatta (HOCR) is this weekend, and whether rowing runs in your blood, or you just love a spectacle, this is a Boston sporting event you won’t want to miss. Founded in 1965 by several Cambridge Boat Club members who thought that a fall regatta would be an entertaining way to break up the monotony of the training season for colleges and boat clubs in the area, the HOCR has grown to be the largest three-day regatta in the world, with 11,000 rowers in more than 1,900 boats competing in more than 60 separate events. When is the Head of the Charles Regatta?  The races run from Friday, October 20th to Sunday, October 22nd. The first race kicks off at 7:45 am on Friday, featuring the Men’s Senior-Veteran/Grand Veteran Singles [70+, 80+]. Racing Friday will wrap up around 11am. On Saturday and Sunday, look for another early start time of 7:45am, with races ending around 4:30pm. You can find more detailed scheduling on the HCOR website. The highest-profile, and possibly most exciting races happen later in the day on Sunday, during the championship fours and the championship eights. Those races will see competitors taking to the water at 1:21 p.m. and 1:35 p.m. for the men's and women's championship fours (respectively) and at 1:57 p.m. and 2:32 p.m. for the men's and women's championship eights. How can you watch the Head of the Charles Regatta? The six bridges over the course offer the best spots to see the races and fans will line the banks on both sides

Fall in New England is nothing short of magical. The landscape transforms into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, as the leaves burst into color. Crisp, cool air invites us to don cozy sweaters while sipping hot chocolate. Pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and farm stands offer a taste of freshly harvested produce. But even if you don’t have time to make it out to the countryside this season, you can get a taste of fall at Time Out Market Boston right here in Fenway. We have rounded up our favorite autumnal goodies that you need to try before the season is over. View this post on Instagram A post shared by JQ Louise - Food, Travel, Lifestyle (@jqlouise)   Union Square Donuts   Courtesy     Our first stop is to Union Square Donuts to try their seasonal specials: Pumpkin Spice Latte, Apple Cider and Pumpkin Cheesecake. Indulge in an after-lunch dessert, a late afternoon snack or a breakfast treat with your coffee this month. Say Coffee Co   Courtesy     Is there anything that says fall like a Pumpkin Spice Latte? Go for either a hot or cold version at Say Coffee Co. This is a drink that will not only wake you up, but also wake up that fall feeling.  Table   Courtesy     While any of the flavors at Table Gelato are sure to hit the spot when you are craving something sweet, the limited time only Caramel Apple Gelato is worth a visit to the Market all on its own!  Time Out Market Bar   Courtesy     Last but not least, swing by the Time Out Market

Actors Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul of Breaking Bad fame were all over Boston over the weekend, pouring drinks and shaking hands to promote their brand of mezcal, Dos Hombres. The duo, who were not dressed in the hazmat suits they wore on the show, were spotted at Time Out Market, Trillium Brewing and Seaport restaurant Grace by Nia, and fans were thrilled to say hello. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Esther Tetreault (@mrstrillium) Based on social media, it looks like the two stopped by Trillium Fenway on Sunday afternoon and took photos with owners JC and Esther Tetreault, before making their way to a packed event at Time Out Market where they poured drinks and shots for excited fans.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Market Boston (@timeoutmarketboston) One fan wrote, “Such a great event, got to take pics and meet both Aaron and Bryan super nice personable guys.” He shared some fun photos on his Instagram as well, showing both actors behind the bar smiling and flashing the peace sign. Cranston was wearing a blue button down shirt, and Paul a colorful sweater and beanie. They fit right in with the crowd! Besides shots, the duo poured drinks created by Time Out Market Assistant General Manager and Beverage Director, Matt Harding, including Mezcal Me Maybe, Mezcal Mule, Naked and Famous and a Michelada, all made with Dos Hombres.  Following the afternoon event at Time Out Market, Cranston and Paul mixed up

A local favorite is back in a big way! Eastern Standard, according to their social media and our careful creeping on Open Table, reopened last night in a new location in Fenway.  A representative for the restaurant confirmed the reopening in a statement, “Eastern Standard returns with the same timeless authenticity of the original, just steps away from its previous location in Kenmore Square.” Restaurateur and owner Garrett Harker will also open a cocktail bar, Equal Measure, in the coming weeks. “It’s surreal to be back just a short walk from my old stomping grounds,” said Harker. “My hope for Eastern Standard and Equal Measure is to foster the same spirit and energy we brought to Kenmore that so clearly resonated with our guests. I’ve been humbled by the outpouring of support throughout our saga, and I couldn’t be prouder of everyone who had a hand in making this day a reality.”  What’s on the menu at the new Eastern Standard? The menu includes the brassiere favorites the restaurant was known for, like steak frites, burgers and lobster bisque. Daily specials include roasted lamb on Wednesdays, and lobster gnocchi on Fridays.  Courtesy There’s also a special beer, exclusive to the restaurant. Eastern Standard partnered with notable craft brewer Narragansett Beer for the brand’s first-ever restaurant collaboration, creating ES Pilsner, a refreshing Bohemian–style pilsner. When did the original Eastern Standard close? Back in 2021, Bostonians and former residents alike mourn

While this is the last thing any of us needed right now, the MBTA is shutting down part of the Red Line again in Boston starting this weekend. The Red Line from the JFK/UMass Station through Ashmont and Mattapan Stations will be shut from Saturday, October 14 through Sunday, October 29, so the MBTA can work on fixing the slow zones in this part of the line. Will there be shuttle buses replacing the Red Line service?  Yes, shuttle buses will replace the Red Line and make all the stops. The shuttle buses are supposed to run every five to six minutes during peak travel hours on weekdays and every 10 to 15 minutes during weekends and off-peak hours. Why is the Red Line shutting down parts of service right now? According to MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng, “The upcoming work on the Ashmont Branch and Mattapan Line is critical to addressing and improving safety and reliability along this stretch of the Red Line, and the complete closure of these lines allows us to accomplish vital work in 16 days.” What else do we need to know about the Red Line shutdown this October? The shutdown will not impact service on the Braintree Branch or the section that heads to Alewife. Obviously, expect slower travel times in general though. This shutdown is necessary because “The MBTA is able to expedite this important work by working around the clock for 16 days with unencumbered access, which would have otherwise taken six months to complete if crews only worked during nights and weekends.” The con

Thinking about taking the commuter train to Salem for spooky season this year? Maybe think again. After weeks of telling the public to take to the rails - which the MBTA has done for the past few years - the agency had to cancel scheduled and added train routes on the Newburyport/Rockport line this past Sunday due to what they described as “availability issues,” reports Patch.  Translation: The MBTA didn’t have enough rail workers to staff the extra trains. The MBTA first posted on social media about the cancellations of the Halloween Happenings train shortly before 8am on Sunday. “Scheduled service will likely be restored this afternoon,” the MBTA wrote. Why are there more trains to Salem from Boston? The MBTA added 10 more inbound trains to Salem from North Station and eight more outbound trains, as well as seven more outbound trains from Salem to Beverly, WCBV reports. This temporary schedule should have trains arriving in Salem from North Station about every 40 minutes during the day. Last year, weekend rail ridership to Witch City set a record, exceeding pre-pandemic rates by 400%, said city officials. Celebrate Halloween in Boston instead If this makes you skittish about heading to Salem, whether it’s fear of cancellations or massive crowds, we’ve got you covered with dozens of activities and events right here in the Hub. The Liberty Hotel is hosting a Barbie and Ken costume party, several spots are hosting Dia de los Muertos events and there are costumed bar crawls all

Boston is a unique place to call home and its quirky nature constantly earns it kudos as one of the top places to live in the country. Sure, our driving is aggressive (we prefer to call it proactive, thank you), and our weather is a rollercoaster. There’s even a love-to-hate response to our accent’s non-rhotic (i.e. "r-dropping") sound, called both the most annoying in the country and the second sexiest. But when it comes to our sense of community, it’s ironclad. And once you’re part of it, you’re in it forever (at least in your own neighborhood). When you want to fit in among your fellow Bostonians, follow these 25 rules to live by in Boston whenever you’re in town.  How to act like a 'real' Bostonian When it comes to pledging your allegiance to your favorite cannoli, you must pick a side: Modern Pastry or Mike’s Pastry. They might be down the street from each other in the North End, you can only be faithful to one of these local bakeries. So legendary is this feud that there’s a PBS documentary currently being filmed called “Cannoli Wars” narrated by Morgan Freeman. See a beach chair or milk crate in a shoveled-out parking spot after a snowstorm? Leave it. Those are space savers, and you don’t want a territory fight. (Except in the South End, where they have been banned.) We only drink iced coffee from Dunks—all year round. Luckily, there are 85 Dunkins in Boston. Also we call it Dunks or Dunkies. No one actually says Dunkin’ out loud. If possible, shelter in place on and

Get Out of Town is a series where we highlight easy getaways from Boston. These may be a perfect bitesize weekend trip or a splurge worthy weeklong escape. But the main criteria are that the destination is both convenient to access and offers visitors an experience that surprises and delights. If you missed our recommendation last time, read all about why you should book a trip to the Hamptons. This week we are headed west to the Berkshires. Why visit Pittsfield  Photograph: Courtesy Pittsfield Pittsfield is the perfect home base for any trip to the Berkshires, but especially during foliage season. Located equidistant from both Boston and New York and smack dab in the middle of Lenox, North Adams and Lee, Pittsfield is a great vantage point for any foliage adventures this season. But be sure to check out our full guide to the best foliage spots closer to Boston too! Getting there  At just over 2 hours from Boston, Pittsfield is at the end of the Mass Pike, but if you time your departure from the city just right to avoid any extra traffic, it is not a bad drive at all.  Where to stay Photograph: Courtesy DCPG Photography The place to stay in Pittsfield is Hotel on North. A 45 room, boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, this is the perfect example of revitalization done right. The property is industrial chic, has a restaurant and coffee shop on site and it within walking distance to lots of dining and nightlife around town. And the best part for leaf peepers is that they

The Boston Ballet is back, the company opened the 2023-2024 season on Thursday October 5 with the Fall Experience. The program consists of four ballets including the world premiere of Form and Gesture choregraphed by Boston Ballet’s very own My’Kal Stromile.  Form and Gesture was segmented into four thought provoking “exhibits”.  In ‘Exhibit A’ there was a feeling of mystery and whimsy. The backlighting gave the audience the allusion that the dancers could be shadows dancing across the stage.  The transition to ‘Exhibit B’ grips the audience’s attention with the sharp opposition in lighting. Dancers are illuminated with bright front lighting and spot lights. There are moments where a single dancer stands in the spotlight against a black abyss, an eerily beautiful reminder that in the darkest moments music and beauty prevail. Then ‘Exhibit C’ makes use of filtered screens and reflective costumes, challenging the audience to think about how the same experience can be viewed very differently depending on the lens one looks through. It important to be conscious of the lens’ we view life through and sometimes in order to understand people we must consider the their lens’.  The final segment, ‘Exhibit D’ was energetic, using expressive, bold movement to tie the whole performance together. When asked about Form and Gesture, Stromile said, “My goal as a choreographer is to use movement to tell stories, express emotions that are beyond words, and to create moments of beauty and transc