Category: Lenox Suggests

Summer Concert Fun At Fenway

Posted on by Lisa Burns

Nothing rings in the summer season like a concert at Boston’s beloved ballpark, Fenway Park. While our boys of summer are traveling, Fenway Park transforms itself into a concert venue and this summer’s line-up brings a few new artists and some seasonal regulars!

With the addition of MGM Music Hall at Fenway, there is a multitude of concert choices from Tate McRae to blast from the past artists The Pretenders and Cheap Trick – there something for everyone! Also a few great comedy acts to throw in the mix.

Find below which artists will be performing and links to ticket information.

The Bryson Tiller Tour

MGM MUSIC HALL AT FENWAY – Thursday, May 30 and Friday, May 31
This Louiville Kentucky native serves up two shows in May.
TICKETS

Bonnie Raitt: Just Like That…Tour

MGM MUSIC HALL AT FENWAY – Saturday, June 15
The iconic Bonnie Raitt stops by for a long awaited appearance in the Boston area.
TICKETS

Hootie and the Blowfish

FENWAY PARK – Friday, June 21
Kane Brown and the Drunk or Dreaming Tour play for the first time at Fenway with special guests Darius Rucker, Gabby Barrett and Restless Road.
TICKETS

Noah Kahan

FENWAY PARK – Thursday, July 18 and Friday, July 19
New England native to appear for two likely to be sold out shows, with special guests Mt. Joy and James Bay.                                  TICKETS

Kane Brown

FENWAY PARK – Saturday, July 20
New England native to appear for two likely to be sold out shows, with special guests Mt. Joy and James Bay.                                  TICKETS

An Evening With Pretenders

MGM MUSIC HALL AT FENWAY – Friday, July 19
Chrissie Hynde and the band stop in Fenway as part of their world tour.
TICKETS

Foo Fighters

FENWAY PARK – Sunday, July 21
An annual favorite at Fenway, don’t miss out on this amazing concert which will also feature special guests The Hives and Amyl and the Sniffers.
TICKETS

blink-182

FENWAY PARK – Tuesday, July 23
First time at Fenway, blink-182 will appear with special guest Pierce the Veil.                                                                                                TICKETS

Def Leppard + Journey

FENWAY PARK – Monday, August 5
Fenway is excited to welcome the return of legendary artists Def Leppard and Journey, joined by Heart, to America’s Most Beloved Ballpark.
TICKETS

Tate McRae

MGM MUSIC HALL AT FENWAY – Friday, August 9 and Saturday, August 10
Singer/songwriter/dancer is sure to get the room up and dancing!
TICKETS

Green Day

FENWAY PARK – Wednesday, August 7
Their first appearance at Fenway with special guests The Smashing Pumpkins, Rancid, and The Linda Lindas.
TICKETS

Pearl Jam

FENWAY PARK – Sunday, September 15 and
A summer tradition, Fenway Park welcomes back Dave Grohl and company for two nights, along with special Glen Hansard.
TICKETS

 

April School Vacation

Posted on by Victoria Molina

April’s school vacation is coming up and it’s never too early to start planning a fun week of activities for the family! If you need some inspiration on what to do this week, then check out the itinerary we made that includes fun for all!

Monday, April 15th (Patriot’s Day)
Watch the Boston Marathon

What better way to start April’s School Vacation Week than watching The Boston Marathon. This year, the marathon will take place on April 15th, and it’s an amazing day with runners coming from all over the world to compete in this 26-mile route and approximately 50,000 spectators watching the race. A great spot to watch the marathon is outside our hotel, with the finish line being only 132 steps away!

Tuesday, April 16th
Free Fencing Class

Looking for a unique opportunity to learn a new sport? Check out this Free offer to learn the art of olympic fencing on Tuesday from 4-5pm, at the Olympia Fencing Center in Newton, for children ages 7-12! Click here for details and to sign up.

Wednesday, April 17th
Stroll through Boston Common & Ride the Swan Boats

If you’re looking to spend some time outside this day, then we suggest making your way over to Boston Common. A day in the park is always fun, especially with cherry blossoms all over the park! The swan boats will also be available to ride for the season, so you and your family can enjoy a relaxing ride around the Public Garden Lagoon.

Thursday, April 18th
Cheer the Red Sox On

The Red Sox start their season in April, so we recommend catching a game and cheering for our beloved team. The Red Sox will be playing against the Cleveland Guardians this day at 1:35pm, so don’t miss out! Enjoy a Fenway Frank during the game or grab a meal at the many restaurants around Fenway Park after the game to conclude a fun day.

Friday, April 19th
A Day at the Museum

If you’re looking for an indoor activity, then you can’t go wrong with visiting any one of Boston’s fun museums. Some kid-friendly favorites are the Museum of Science and Boston’s Children Museum. Also, the MIT museum will be hosting a number of activities this week, including Learning Lab hours, family workshops, and more! If you want to explore other unique museums in Boston, check out a list of some we featured on our blog!

Feel free to follow along with this itinerary or add more things to do over the weekend, like visiting Franklin Park Zoo or going on a whale-watching cruise!

Five Things To Do During February Vacation

Posted on by Kenzo Abdi

Are you planning a trip to Boston in February? Perhaps you’re taking a staycation during February’s school vacation week? We’ve got some activities for you to check out!

New England Aquarium

Sitting on the Boston Wharf, you’ll find the New England Aquarium. This aquarium is great for adults and kids alike. There’s so much to “sea” at the exhibits, such as the penguin colony, giant ocean tank to see the iconic myrtle the turtle, shark and ray touch tank, and much more. During February Vacation Week, the aquarium will be open every day from 9:00am to 5:00pm, so make sure to add it to the itinerary

Boston Common Frog Pond

The famous Frog Pond on Boston Common is still open as a magical ice-skating rink! Located in the center of the park, visitors of all ages can skate and enjoy. You can also rent a Bobby Seal to help children and beginners across the rink. The rink is open seven days a week until March, and you can check out their website for information regarding skating times, admission, and skate rentals.

Children’s Winter Festival on the Boston Common

Join Mayor Michelle Wu and the Parks and Recreation Department for the perfect afternoon activity for kids of all ages. This free event features music, giveaways, various winter attractions, treats, crafts, and much more! Wednesday, February 21, from 11 a.m – 2 p.m

Boston Children’s Museum

This landmark has been around since 1913, and includes a multitude of fun activities for kids of all ages. Both kids and parents can learn about other cultures, see exciting performances, get involved with arts and crafts and experience many other hands-on exhibits. There is also a challenging vertical maze that stands three-stories tall, and allows kids to gaze at downtown Boston through large windows. Overall, the Boston Children’s Museum emphasizes learn and play, engagement and fun, which are ideal when looking for things to do with kids in Boston.

Museum of Science

You’ll experience science and technology in a new way at the Museum of Science with a  kaleidescope of visiting exhibitions, special presentations, and 700 or so immersive exhibits! Create your own tiny flying robot bee, meet a biologically inspired cheetah robot, and move your body to create simulations based on your movements in a special mirror.  Kids can journey to the past as they examine a 23-foot long, 65-million-year-old Triceratops skeleton!

Fireside Experience Package
A bonus sixth idea – escape to The Lenox with our Fireside Experience package! Stay in one of our luxurious Executive Fireplace rooms, some of the only hotel rooms in Boston with in-room wood-burning fireplaces, and enjoy a locally made fireside snack in style with hot chocolate, marshmallows & s’mores-inspired chocolates.

Year of the Dragon

Posted on by Beverly Doughty

The middle of winter can sometimes feel like a race to get to Spring. But here in the Boston area, there are a number of ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year. From museums to markets to music, there is something for everybody. With one of the largest Chinese neighborhoods in the nation, don’t miss your chance to ring in the Year of the Dragon.

Below is a list of activities to help you celebrate the Lunar New Year!

Saturday, February 10th
A Blessed Lunar New Year
11am-4pm Old South Church in Boston, Boylston Street, Boston
Details here

Saturday, February 10th
LEAP Lab: Lunar New Year
Details: 2-4pm MIT Welcome Center, 292 Main Street, Cambridge
Details here

Tuesday, February 13th
2024 Chinese New Year Concert
Details: 8pm Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave, Boston
Details here

Thursday, February 15th
Lunar New Year Celebration
Details: 5-10pm Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston
Details here

Sunday, February 18th
Chinese Lion Dance
Details here

What To Read This Winter

Posted on by Lisa Burns

Winter is the perfect time of year to snuggle by the fire with a hot chocolate, a warm blanket and a really good book. Here are some recommendations of books I’ve read recently – Happy Reading!

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Small Miracles

by Dennis Lehane

This is an intense thriller by Dennis Lehane that takes place in Boston in 1974, when the city’s busing crisis was just getting started. The story centers around a single mother in the neighborhood of South Boston, whose daughter goes missing on the same night a Black man is found dead under suspicious circumstances.

MORE INFORMATION
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The Fraud

by Zadie Smith

Zadie Smith’s book delves into the Tichborne case’s controversy, where a working-class man asserted his identity as the missing heir to an affluent family’s wealth. Weaving together the narratives of Elizabeth Touchet, a white housekeeper, and Andrew Bogle, a former enslaved individual from Jamaica, this hefty novel uncovers a complex tale of intertwined lives.

MORE INFORMATION

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Astor: The Rise and Fall of an American Fortune

by Anderson Cooper + Katherine Howe

CNN journalist Anderson Cooper, along with co-author Katherine Howe, chronicles the saga of the prominent Astor. The book traces the family’s illustrious history, commencing with John Jacob Astor’s migration from Germany and his establishment within the cutthroat beaver fur trade, a business fraught with bloodshed and fierce rivalry..

MORE INFORMATION

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Such Kindness

by Andre Dubus III

Set in present-day Massachusetts, Such Kindness by Andre Dubus III is a tender, painful look at one man’s reckoning of an expansive life that once included marriage, a son, and owning his own business, but is now diminished to government housing, disability, and constant pain.

MORE INFORMATION
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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for announcements on our future Author Events!

Exploring Boston Museums

Posted on by Victoria Molina

A trip to Boston wouldn’t be complete without a visit to either the Museum of Fine Arts or the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum – two iconic galleries. But if you’re looking for a more unique museum experience,  we have you covered too!

Museum of African American History
46 Joy Street | 617-725-0022

Just steps away from the Massachusetts State House, you’ll find the Museum of African American History, New England’s largest African American art and history museum. It is located in the former Abiel Smith School, which was opened in 1835 as America’s first public school for African American children. This museum offers exhibits, programs, and educational activities that explain authentic representations of life in the 18 and 19 centuries, and powerful stories of black families who advanced the cause of freedom.

If you’ve already checked out the MFA or Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum and are looking for more museums to see, then here’s a list of some interesting, lesser-known Boston museums to put on your radar.

Gibson House Museum
137 Beacon Street | 617-267-6338

Transport back to the mid-nineteenth to early-twentieth centuries inside this home in Back Bay. The Gibson House Museum, known as a time capsule of domestic life in these centuries, served as a residence to three generations of Gibson family members and staff between 1859 and 1954. You can take a guided tour of all 4 floors, which shows class and culture through the stories and artifacts of the Gibson family. Fun fact, this museum was also featured in 2019’s Little Women as Jo’s New York boardinghouse and publisher’s home!

The Sports Museum in TD Garden
100 Legends Way | 617-212-6814

You may just know TD Garden only for attending Celtics or Bruins games, but did you know there’s also a sports museum located inside the arena? The Sports Museum is located on premium levels 5 and 6 of TD Garden. It features a half-mile of exhibits celebrating the history and treasures of Boston sports and athletes. These tours last approximately an hour and are walk-in only! The museum also offers award-winning educational programs, such as Boston vs. Bullies, which uses sports to teach the values of leadership and respect to youth in the community.

The Boston Athenaeum
10½ Beacon Street | 617-227-0270

One of the oldest and most distinguished independent libraries in the U.S. and best kept secrets of Boston is located right by Boston Common. The Boston Athenaeum, founded in 1807, is a wonderful haven for readers, writers, and thinkers alike. This 12-floor establishment is a unique blend of a library, museum, and cultural center. You can explore over half a million books here, along with thousands of sculptures, paintings, art pieces, and more. If you’d like to make a visit, you can book a one-hour tour or a day pass!

And if you haven’t yet been to the MFA or the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum, we’ve got you covered!

Museum of Fine Arts
465 Huntington Avenue  |  617 267-9300

The Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston is a treasure trove of art spanning various cultures and periods. It’s known for its extensive collection, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary pieces. The museum holds paintings by renowned artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt, as well as an impressive array of sculptures, decorative arts, and textiles. If you get the chance to visit, it’s definitely worth exploring!

Isabella Stewart Gardner
25 Evans Way  |  617-566 -1401

Just a few steps away from the MFA, this 15th-century Venetian-style three story palace boasts galleries surrounding an open air courtyard. This museum is also the scene of the 1990 heist which over 500 million in Art was stolen, including an original Rembrandt. This museum is renowned for its distinctive layout and the personal collection of its founder, Isabella Stewart Gardner, a prominent art collector and philanthropist.

Holiday Dining in Boston

Posted on by Nick Peterson

Traveling to Boston over the upcoming holidays and looking for some dining options? Sometimes, a holiday meal tastes better when someone else is cooking! Take advantage of these restaurants open on Christmas Day. And if you are lucky enough to be staying at The Lenox, our concierge team would be happy to assist you with your dining plans!

Back Bay Neighborhood Restaurants open on Christmas Day:

Fogo de Chão – open 11am – 9pm
Yard House – 11am – 12am
Trifecta – opens 4pm
Oak Long Bar + Kitchen – 7am-10pm
La Voile – opens 12pm

Boston Restaurants open on Christmas Day:

Alcove (West End)
Wolfgang’s Steakhouse (Downtown)
Trattoria Il Panino (North End)
Bricco (North End)
Ruth Chris Steakhouse (Downtown)
Quattro (North End)
Mastro’s Ocean Club (Seaport)

‘Tis the Season for Skating!

Posted on by Beverly Doughty

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for ice skating in Boston. From outdoor rinks with glistening lights and music to indoor rinks to keep you warm, here are some great skating spots to check out this season!

Boston Common Frog Pond

 38 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108 | (617) 635-2120

It’s that time of year when the famous Frog Pond on Boston Common is transformed into a magical ice-skating rink! Located in the center of the park, visitors of all ages can skate and enjoy a wonderful experience, especially at night when the surrounding trees are all lit up. You can also rent a Bobby Seal to help you glide across the rink if you’re a beginner. The rink will be open seven days a week from December till March, and you can check out their website for additional information regarding skating times, admission, and skate rentals.

Rink at 401 Park

Landmark Center, 401 Park Dr, Boston, MA 02215 | (617) 603-5600

Located adjacent to Time Out Market in Fenway, this 6000 sq. ft ice skating rink is a perfect spot for a date night or a get together with friends! The rink is open seven days a week and offers public skating, private lessons, and even special events like Ice Flow Yoga every Sunday at 10:00am. For a post-skating celebration, feel free to grab a drink at Trillium Brewing right next to the rink or dine at Time Out Market. The Rink at 401 Park is only three stops away on the MBTA D line (Fenway) from the Lenox, so make sure to add this stop on your next adventure in the city!

Steriti Memorial Rink

561 Commercial St, Boston, MA 02109 | 617) 523-9327

This indoor rink is a hidden gem in the North End with great waterfront views and scenery. Since it’s overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, it’s free and open to the public, but skate rental is additional. This skating rink is a wonderful option if weather conditions are too harsh outside or if you’re looking to explore the North End and its amazing restaurants. However, times may be limited since it’s a community arena, so make sure to check here to see if there’s any games or events occurring before you plan a visit.

Preferred Photographers

Posted on by Alison Majka

Scott & Amy are a husband-wife photographer duo who just so happened to have gotten married at The Lenox!  All of the wedding photos you see on our website are from weddings they have photographed, and we couldn’t be happier to call them our preferred wedding photographers.  Read a little about their story below and check out their work on their websites.

Amy Spirito Photography

Scott Zuehlke Photography

As wedding photographers, we’ve worked at a lot of different venues. We’ve photographed destination weddings on beaches, backyard weddings during COVID, and just about everything in between– but the charm of The Lenox hotel and the experience of attending a wedding there have always held a spot in our hearts. Scott & I have each had our own separate wedding photography businesses for quite a while, but have always enjoyed the weddings that we ended up photographing as a team. After becoming a couple and photographing several weddings together at The Lenox, we really fell in love with it. The team is always so enjoyable to work with, there is no shortage of spots and photo opportunities, and the classic vibe of the Dome Room never gets old. We live together in Hingham, a ways out of the city, and we started staying at The Lenox Hotel whenever we would come to Downtown Boston to celebrate an anniversary or birthday. When we decided to host our immediate families in Boston for our legal wedding ceremony before heading to Mexico for our destination wedding party, choosing a location was truly a no-brainer because we both agreed that it absolutely had to take place at The Lenox Hotel. We scheduled our wedding festivities for March, and were able to have my grandparents join us in Boston (from New York) even though they were unable to make the trip to Mexico. Our immediate families fell in love with the hotel, the staff, the coziness of the fireplace rooms… we even gifted everyone a room spray from The Lenox Mercantile of the signature Lenox scent. We hosted dinner the night before our legal ceremony at City Table, and had champagne after the ceremony the next day at City Bar. Everything was truly perfect (as we knew it would be!) from the time we checked in until the time we checked out, and our families are still raving about the experience. Our friend Victoria of Victoria Reilly Photography photographed the day for us, and we’re so happy to have such gorgeous images from the day that documented it all perfectly. Now, whenever we photograph weddings at The Lenox, together or separately, we get to relive that special day.

Holiday Markets Around Boston

Posted on by Victoria Molina

During the months of November and December, Boston is filled with holiday cheer, and festive winter
markets begin to pop up all across the area. If you’re looking for extra special gifts to give this season
while getting into the holiday spirit, then make sure to check out these popular winter markets and fairs.

Snowport – Seaport’s Holiday Market

100 Seaport Blvd. | November 10th – December 31st
Snowport, Boston’s longest winter market, is in the heart of Seaport and is truly a winter wonderland.
The market features over 100 small local businesses selling unique gifts like crafts, jewelry, and home
goods, and many different spots for food and fresh hot cocoa. There’s also Christmas music to sing and
dance to, photo spots, and games, such as shuffleboard and curling! Check out our Snowport Blog!

Old South Church Christmas Craft Fair

645 Boylston St | December 2nd, 9:30am-3:30pm
Just steps away from the Lenox, you’ll find one of Boston’s oldest and most iconic churches, the Old
South Church. Annually, this church holds a Christmas craft fair for a day, where many New England
artists, such as jewelers, knitters, and woodworkers come in and sell a wide collection of crafts.

SoWa Winter Festival

550 Harrison Avenue | Weekends during November 24th – December 17th
The SoWa Winter Festival, located in and around SoWa Power Station, is one you can’t miss, especially
with its Trail of Lights! As Boston’s biggest holiday market, there’s plenty of artists, designers, and
vendors to check out. After some holiday shopping, you can drink some delicious, mulled wine or hot
cocoa, and try a variety of specialty food offerings.

Harvard Square Holiday Fair

1 Brattle Square | December 15-17 and 21-23
Boston’s oldest holiday market is back this year for two weekends! The Harvard Square Holiday Fair
showcases a large, unique selection of vendors from New England and beyond. There’s numerous gift
items to choose from, such as artisan chocolates, hand-made clothing, glass art, and much more.

Back Bay’s Best Hot Chocolate

Posted on by Victoria Molina

It’s that time of year when temperatures start to drop in Boston, and the search for warmth and hot cocoa begins. Luckily, we know all the best hot cocoa spots around the area to get you feeling toasty and in the holiday spirit!

L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates – 220 Clarendon Street

This quaint spot located in Back Bay is known for selling the best and most decadent hot chocolate in Boston. They offer European-style hot chocolate, with your choice of a dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate blend. You can also find a wide assortment of delicious, handmade chocolates and French pastries to pair your hot cocoa with, and the chocolate chip cookie is a must-try!

Thinking Cup – 85 Newbury Street

With locations around Boston, the Thinking Cup is a great patisserie and coffee bar serving up delightful French hot chocolate. This specialty hot cocoa uses 64% Tainori Valhrona drinking chocolate, a dense, high-end alternative to regular cocoa powder. After you take your first sip of this savory French hot cocoa, we definitely think you won’t be disappointed!

Trident Booksellers & Café – 338 Newbury Street

Inside this indie bookstore on Newbury Street, you’ll find not only a wide variety of books, but a plentiful amount of food and drink items. It’s a fun spot to read a book and drink a cup of white or regular hot chocolate! If you’re looking for a pick-me-up but also craving hot chocolate, this café serves a delicious Chocolatino, which is an espresso with steamed chocolate milk, topped with whipped cream, cocoa and chocolate syrup.

If you’d like to venture beyond the Back Bay, head over to the North End, to one of our favorite spots:

Caffe Vittoria – 290-296 Hanover Street

Boston’s first Italian café, Caffe Vittoria, is a wonderful, cozy spot in the North End. It’s the perfect place to stop by after dinner if you’re looking for a warm and scrumptious cup of hot cocoa. There are also many desserts to try, the tiramisu is a fan favorite!

The Lenox – 61 Exeter Street

The last spot on our list is extra special! With our fireside experience package, you can snuggle up by the wood-burning fireplace in our executive room and enjoy tasty hot chocolate made with locally sourced hot fudge from COOP’s. If you want to bring some hot cocoa back home, you can also purchase COOP’s hot chocolate mix from our Mercantile shop in the lobby or online!

Nineteen Hundred Fall Volume

Posted on by Christopher Smith

During your next stay, you’ll find something new gracing your room! Nineteen Hundred is our guide to all things Lenox, Boston, & beyond. Each volume will feature explorations around Boston, deep dives into our Mercantile partners, exclusive recipes, and more.

Our first volume explores View Boston & some hot new spots in the Back Bay, behind-the-scenes looks at Share Coffee Roasters & Brown and Coconut, our top-secret City Table granola recipe, and some other hidden gems!

Not staying with us this fall but still want to be in the loop? Check out our digital version linked below:

Nineteen Hundred – Fall Volume

Five Fabulous Fall Activities

Posted on by Beverly Doughty

Boston is a fantastic place to visit in the fall, with its beautiful foliage, crisp weather, and a wide range of activities to enjoy. Here are five top things to do in Boston during the fall season:

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Leaf Peeping:

One of the highlights of fall in Boston is the stunning foliage.  The city itself has some beautiful fall foliage, and it has easy access to more rural destinations with colorful displays. Take a scenic drive or hike through the nearby countryside, such as the Berkshires or White Mountains, to witness the vibrant colors of the changing leaves. Closer to the city, Boston Common and the Public Garden offer picturesque spots for leaf peeping.

MORE INFORMATION
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Apple Picking

Take a short drive to one of the many nearby apple orchards and enjoy a quintessential fall activity. Apple picking is a fun and family-friendly way to spend a day in the crisp autumn air. Some popular orchards include Honey Pot Hill Orchards and Russell Orchards. For a thorough list of Pick Your Own farms, click the link below

MORE INFORMATION
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Fall Neighborhood Food Tours

One of the best ways to explore Boston’s 23 neighborhoods is through their food options! Mix the fun of exploring the city on foot with some of the best flavors the city has to offer. Take a North End Pizza Tour, taste delicacies from the third largest Chinatown in the country with either Boston Chinatown Tours or Chinatown’s Culture and Cuisine Tour, explore innovative eats on the Davis Square Food Tour, or satisfy that sweet tooth during the Harvard Square Chocolate Tour. The flavors and options are endless!
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Fall Festivals

Boston hosts several fall festivals and events. Check out the Boston Film Festival, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Oktoberfest celebrations for a taste of local culture and entertainment.

MORE INFORMATION
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Visit Historic Sites

Explore Boston’s rich history by visiting iconic landmarks like the Freedom Trail, Paul Revere’s House, and the USS Constitution Museum. The fall weather provides a pleasant backdrop for outdoor historical tours.

MORE INFORMATION
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BONUS TIP!

Explore Boston’s Beer Scene

Boston has emerged as a true beer haven in the New England area. Head to one of the city’s internationally known or local breweries, visit a beer or wine garden, attend one of the many Oktoberfest celebrations happening throughout the city, or dive deeper into Boston’s beer scene with City Brew Tours.

 

What To Read This Fall

Posted on by Lisa Burns

Though we technically have a few weeks of summer left, I thought I’d offer up a few suggestions of what I’ve read recently. Fall is the perfect time of year to settle in with a cup of mulled cider, a cozy nook and a really good book. Here are some recommendations to get you geared up for Fall. Happy Reading!

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The Leftover Woman

by Jean Kwok

Jasmine Yang arrives in NYC from rural China, fleeing a controlling husband and searching for her daughter lost due to the One Child Policy. On the other side, successful executive Rebecca Whitney’s seemingly perfect life is marred by a scandal jeopardizing her job and marriage. As their paths converge, “The Leftover Woman” delves into their unique struggles in a divided city, exploring identity, motherhood, and emotional bonds.

I was lucky to have read an Advance Reading Copy and tore through it in a day – the ending, oh my, I didn’t see that coming…

We are so excited to be hosting Jean in October for our next An Evening with An Author Event (tickets here!)

MORE INFORMATION
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None Of This Is True

by Lisa Jewell

Alix Summer, a podcast host, meets Josie Fair, a seemingly ordinary woman celebrating her same birthday. After a chance encounter, Josie becomes a podcast subject for Alix, hinting at significant life changes. As Alix delves deeper, she uncovers Josie’s disturbing secrets, leading to her presence in Alix’s life and home. However, Josie disappears, revealing a horrifying legacy. Alix realizes she’s become a subject of her own true crime podcast, with her life and family in danger, as the mystery of Josie’s actions unfolds.

An avid Lisa Jewell fan (my favorite, after this one, “Then She Was Gone”) I couldn’t put this book down – truly gripping and it will keep you up late at night like it did me.

MORE INFORMATION

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Hotel Laguna

by Nicola Harrison

In 1942, Hazel Francis left Kansas for California to aid the war effort as a “Rosie the Riveter.” After the war, she faces societal pressure to return to traditional roles. Instead, she stays in Laguna Beach, finding work with artist Hanson Radcliff who lives under the shadow of a decades old scandal that haunts him. As she becomes part of the community and falls for the local bartender, Jimmy, Hazel grapples with her desire to pursue her aviation dreams versus embracing her new life in Laguna.

This book has a little of everything – romance, mystery and history – set in a beautifully described southern California town.

MORE INFORMATION

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The Love Hypothesis

by Ali Hazelwood

Olive Smith, a skeptical Ph.D. candidate, is pushed into a tricky situation by her romantic-minded best friend, Anh. To convince Anh, Olive pretends to be in a relationship, choosing Adam Carlsen, an esteemed yet difficult professor, as her fake boyfriend. Surprisingly, Adam agrees and provides unexpected support during a chaotic science conference, kindling feelings between them. As their charade becomes more genuine, Olive grapples with emotions as complex as her scientific studies.

This book was an instant NY Times bestseller, a BuzzFeed Best Summer Read of 2021, and Goodreads Choice Awards finalist and was recently recommended to me by a friend. Italian author Ali Hazelwood skillfully weaves a tale of love, friendship, and the pursuit of one’s dreams into a fun read!

MORE INFORMATION
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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for announcements on our future Author Events!

Come Sail Away!

Posted on by Beverly Doughty

CONVERSATIONS WITH A CONCIERGE:

We recently sat down with one of our concierges, Beverly Doughty, and she gave us some insight on the best water activities in and around Boston.

Hey Beverly, what are some of your favorite activities to do in Boston?

My favorite thing to do on a day off is to bike along the Charles River Esplanade. It is very relaxing, and I love biking during sunset time. I also enjoy kayaking on the Charles River! You can rent a kayak or canoe with Paddle Boston and see splendid views of the city skyline.

That sounds fun, are there any other water-related activities you’d recommend?

I actually have a few recommendations because being near the water is my favorite thing to do! If you’re interested in sailing on the Boston Harbor, I’d say a sunset sail on a Classic Harbor Line boat is amazing, perfect for a date night or to unwind after work! If you’re looking for a more fun and thrilling activity on the water, then going on a Tiki Boat or Cycle Boat is the way to go. The Tiki Boat offers island-inspired cocktails and a tropical playlist to set the mood, it is so fun! The Cycle Boat is a unique experience because you propel the boat by pedaling around the harbor and bring your own food and drinks aboard. If you’re not a biker, then there’s always the option to sit and let the captain take you all around Boston!

Wow, that sounds like a blast, is there anything else that is a must-do on the water?

If I have a whole day free, then I like taking the MBTA Ferry to different destinations. If you’re looking to go to the beach, then you can take the ferry to Winthrop Beach, it’s only about a 30-minute ride. It’s great for sunbathing and swimming, I love it! If you like being by the marina, then there’s also a Ferry to Hingham Marina from Long Wharf in the North End. It’s a beautiful place to visit and I’d recommend eating at Alma Nove or The Beth for lunch or dinner!

This all sounds great, thank you Beverly!

Feel free to visit me in the lobby or call if you need more information or recommendations!

Get Out, Dine Out

Posted on by Maddy Cohen-Shrage

Summer is in full swing and the desire to get out and enjoy the city is stronger than ever. That is why we are excited to announce that City Table is once again participating in DINE OUT BOSTON. The Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau offers DINE OUT BOSTON twice a year, providing locals and visitors an opportunity to sample area restaurants at special prices. Each restaurant offers either/or both a lunch and dinner prix fixe menu at an excellent price.

Enjoy a three-course dinner in City Table for $41 from August 6th – 19th, available for dine-in or takeout. Reservations are recommended, walk-ins welcome. A full menu can be viewed here and even better, almost everything is available for take-out! Go with your favorite, (mine is the Brie Burger!) or try something new (the Dulce Bread Pudding)!

The Newest Cafés Brewing in Back Bay

Posted on by Victoria Molina

Blank Street Coffee

647 Boylston Street

Blank Street Coffee is a popular coffee chain that has over 60 locations spanning across big cities, such as New York, Washington D.C, and London. In February earlier this year, Blank Street opened its doors on Boylston Street, a quick 2-minute walk from the Lenox, and now has three locations across Boston. This cafe is known for their affordable, high-quality coffee and specialty cold brews, such as their grapefruit cold brew spritz and shaken chai cold brew.

Café Landwer

653 Boylston Street

Although this café opened last year in January, it’s still fairly new to the café community in Back Bay. Café Landwer, a Mediterranean restaurant chain serving coffee and healthy dishes, is a popular spot for guests looking for a casual, delicious dining experience. Luckily, it’s only a 2-minute walk from the Lenox, so feel free to pop in for a flavorful Turkish coffee and their amazing Nutella Rosalach.

Capital One Café

711 Boylston Street

If you’re a Capital One card member, then you’re in luck! Capital One Café, a coffee shop combined with a bank branch, just opened this early July right across the street from the Lenox and Capital One cardholders receive 50% off any handcrafted beverage. However, the café is open to everyone, and its modern and sleek design make it a great place to relax and recharge for the day!

Slurp-Worthy Delights: Exploring Boston’s Best Ramen Spots

Posted on by Tom Nguyen

CONVERSATIONS WITH A CONCIERGE:

We recently sat down with one of our concierges, Tom Nguyen, and he gave us some insight on the best places to have a delicious bowl of Ramen in the Boston area. Tanoshimu!

Alright, Tom, if I’m looking for Ramen near the hotel where am I going?

Santouka Hokido Ramen.  This shop is right down the street and they are the first hokido style that came to Boston.  It’s a city in Japan famous for seafood and toncastu broth.  When I was in Japan, I met a friend who was from Boston and he actually was a Ramen Chef.  He said that what makes Santouka great, is that when they train their chefs, they fly people in from Japan.

The best way to describe it is as a slow simmer pork bone-based ramen.  And they make their noodles in house!  It’s definitely the most authentic bowl of Ramen within walking distance of The Lenox.

If I’m up for going a little further away from Back Bay where would you go?

I’m definitely going to this spot called Ganko.  It’s inside of a historic building and it’s the most Japan-like Ramen shop.  They actually hold a lot of special events over the summer where they will have different ramen shops fly in and they make like 60 bowls for the day and that’s it!  The unique thing about Ganko is that they are a Sapporo style ramen, which means it is cooked in a wok so all of the spices and aromatics go in first.  Sapporo style ramen flavors hit harder.  Definitely worth it!

How did you first discover this place?

I was always drawn to it based on its location.  Because right next to it is a great Japanese marketplace.  It’s a really densely Japanese part of Brookline.  And it’s in the historic Arcade Building, which has a bunch of small shops and businesses.

Any other spots that are worth checking out?  Something unique or super popular with the locals?

There is another Ramen shop that has grown in popularity over the last decade – Yume Wo Katare in Porter Square.

Is this the place that always has the line out front?

The line is always crazy but I never let anybody get discouraged by the line because it’s a very fast paced restaurant.  What they are known for is Jiro style.  This style is not based on a location or anything.  It’s actually based on a chain in Japan.  Jiro translates to pork bone and soy sauce based ramen.  And they are famous for big portions and homemade noodles.

The name translates to “speak your dreams.”  The concept is that they encourage diners to share their dreams after they finish their meal.  The restaurant is on the smaller side, again, it only has about 20 seats and you are sitting in a classroom-style layout.  When you are done with your bowl of Rame, they go one by one and ask you to share your dreams.  You then stand up and share with the whole room or you can write it down and hang it on the wall.

Sounds kinda wild. I’m sure this is not for everyone?

It’s really not the type of place where you are going to sit down and mingle.  There is no alcohol, there is none of that, but there is something unique about sitting with 20 strangers and everyone is eating together and sharing their dreams.  It’s an interesting and warm way that Ramen brings people together.

These are just a few of the many ramen spots you can find in Boston. Each place has its own unique style and flavors, so feel free to explore and find your favorite!

Beer Gardens to Check Out this Summer

Posted on by Victoria Molina

Beer gardens are back in Boston for the summer! It’s time to relax, hang with your colleagues, and raise a toast with some cold glasses at some of our favorite beer gardens near the Lenox.

Night Shift Esplanade

Charles River Esplanade – Between Berkeley & Clarendon Streets along the Storrow Lagoon

Located right along the river, this beer garden is a perfect place to wind down after a long day at work or over the weekend. With a variety of Night Shift Brewing beers, hard seltzers, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages, everyone can enjoy a nice drink at this beer garden. Also, feel free to bring your pup with you as dogs are happily welcomed!

Trillium Garden on the Common

Boston Common – on the corner of Tremont and Boylston Street

This newly opened beer garden has partnered with Emerson College, along with the City of Boston, to showcase live performances on its stage within the garden. You can listen to amazing music acts and drink specialty drafts, seltzers, wine, and more from Trillium Brewing. This garden is in a great spot on the Common, making it a fun place to eat, drink, and dance the day or night away!

Distraction & Democracy Beer Garden (D&D)

1 City Hall Avenue

Two Boston breweries, downtown-based Democracy Brewing and Roslindale-based, Distraction Brewing, have teamed up and set up shop atop City Hall Plaza, facing Faneuil Hall. There are 12 tap lines, along with food and other drinks. Additionally, this beer garden is offering events and activities all season long, such as live music, yoga, and art showcases!

Open Newbury Street

Posted on by Beverly Doughty

Open Newbury is back this year with even more dates than last summer! Starting July 2nd, the iconic Newbury Street will become car-free on Sundays to the public until mid-October. From Berkeley Street to Massachusetts Ave, this mile-long road will be pedestrian-only, making it much easier to access and explore, giving guests the opportunity to get to know and support local, small businesses.

Open Newbury will run from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on these following Sundays in 2023:
• July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23, and July 30
• August 6, August 13, August 20, and August 27
• September 3, September 10, September 17, and September 24
• October 1, October 8, and October 15

Since The Lenox is just a street over from Newbury, we have some great recommendations for you to check out!

If you’re getting to Newbury in the morning and need a coffee to start the day, then make your way over to the Bittersweet Shoppe on Newbury. This cafe has a delicious selection to choose from, as well as breakfast plates and fresh pastries. My go-to order is the cookies and cream iced coffee with a chocolate croissant – extra yummy if you’re craving something sweet!

Once you’re energized, there’s a plethora of stores to choose from. If you’re looking for boutiques with cute, trendy, and affordable clothing, then No Rest for Bridget or LIT Boutique is for you. Both stores also sell unique accessories and jewelry that can go with an everyday outfit.

If you’re into pop culture, then check out Newbury Comics. This store offers a wide variety of music, movies, comics, and more, and it’s also just a fun store to peruse in. There’s also a Harry Potter inspired shop two blocks down for all the fantasy fanatics out there.

After all this shopping, you’ll probably be in the mood for a bite to eat. Crazy Good Kitchen is a perfect spot if you’re craving a hearty meal, like a burger or chicken sandwich. Even though it says trouble in the name, you can’t go wrong with their Double Trouble burger – it’s definitely crazy good.

Or there’s a few seafood restaurants on Newbury that also hit the spot. One of our favorites is The Little Whale Oyster Bar – the lobster spaghetti is amazing! They also serve other traditional New England dishes, such as the lobster roll and fresh oysters.

There’s so much to do on Newbury Street and we can’t for the open days this summer. At The Lenox, you’re walking distance from all these amazing shops and restaurants on Newbury!

 

July 4th in Boston

Posted on by Tom Nguyen

If you’re in town for the 4th of July weekend, then you’re in for a treat! Boston is one of America’s most historic cities, which means the weekend is packed with fun activities for everyone.
The celebration kicks off on June 30th with the commencement of the country’s largest 4th of July festival, Boston Harborfest.

Harborfest includes live music performances, historical reenactments, and parades from the 30th to July 4th! Some special events of Harborfest include the fireworks display show on July 1st and the Chowderfest on July 3rd, where attendees can try a wide selection of chowders from iconic Boston restaurants and vote for their favorite. The festivities conclude on July 4th with a reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Old State House balcony, followed by a reading of Frederick Douglass’ speech at the Franklin Steps in Downtown Crossing.

Later in the evening, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular will take place at the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade from 8pm to 11pm. The iconic R&B group, En Vogue, will be headlining this year’s show, along with the Boston Pops. Some other musical acts taking the stage are Broadway star Mandy Gonzales from “In the Heights” and “Hamilton” and country duo LOCASH. The night will end with an amazing fireworks display at 10:30pm.

It’s a scene 20-minute walk from The Lenox to the Hatch Memorial Shell. After exiting the hotel, simply take a left to reach Boylston Street and then make a right, walking along Boylston until you reach Dartmouth Street. Turn left on Dartmouth Street until the road ends and you’ll see the Dartmouth Street Footbridge, which will lead you over Storrow Drive directly to the Esplanade, where the Fireworks Spectacular show is!