Beer Gardens to Check Out this Summer

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

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

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!

Patio-ing with your Pooch

It is officially summer season, which means the patios in Boston are awaiting you and your furry friends! We found some paw-fect places for you and your pup to dine at this summer. Bone appétit!

J.P.Licks

173 Newbury Street  | 857.449.0334

This local chain serves signature ice cream and sorbet flavors in the heart of Newbury Street. Not only can your pup join you outside, but they can have a special treat as well! Their menu features Peanut Butter and Honey Cow Paws, a pet-friendly sorbet topped with a kosher dog bone.

Friendly Toast

35 Stanhope Street  |  617.456.7849

This fun and quirky spot serves brunch all day and its patio is great for people-watching with your pooch!

Crazy Good Kitchen

268 Newbury Street  |  617.936.4359

This family-owned restaurant in Back Bay offers outdoor seating for you and your doggy. Enjoy sipping on a shake and eating a delicious burger, while your pup salivates next to you.

Coppa

253 Shawmut Avenue  |  617.391.0902

Transport to Italy with your pet at this South End eatery, offering in-house pastas with lovely patio seating. There’s also a dog park (Peter’s Park) down the road to stop at after your meal!

Proud to Celebrate PRIDE

Get ready to paint the town with vibrant colors, and spread waves of love as Pride 2023 takes over the city of Boston with its electrifying energy! Every June, members of the LGBTQIA+ community celebrate Pride month with various events in honor of the Stonewall riots of 1969, which was a major catalyst of the gay liberation movement.

The Boston Pride parade is returning for the first time since 2019 on Saturday, June 10 and commences in front of our hotel. Our Irish pub Sólás will open early at 10am and we’ll have DJ’s Danny T & Mikey V of City Event Group on our Boylston Street marquee to get the party started! We’ve partnered with Hornitos Tequila to celebrate PRIDE 2023 in Sólás and created a special tequila cocktail named the “Pantheress”!

Check out our list of Boston Pride 2023 events in and around the city:

JUNE 9:

Pride At The MFA | $ | In Person | Boston | Talks, film screenings and more at the Museum of Fine Arts’ recognition of Pride Month.

Pride & Climbing | $ | In Person | Somerville | Top rope climbing competition, documentary screening, food, drinks, fun. At The Bouldering Project.

JUNE 10:

Boston Pride For The People | Free | In Person | Boston Parade kicks off at Copley Square at 11 a.m.; events and picnic on Boston Common 12-6 p.m.

Pride Saturday at Club Cafe | $ | In Person | Drag brunch in the morning (reservations recommended). Stop in any time all day to cool off, charge your phone; dancing and DJs begin at 4 p.m. and on until closing.

Boston Harbor Lines Pride Day Cruise | $ | In Person | Multiple dates | Sail Boston Harbor on a classic yacht. Part of the proceeds go to Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth (BAGLY)

Road of Rainbows 5K | $ | Fundraiser | In Person | 5K run/walk. Route is on the Boston Common.

JUNE 11:

Queer Family Festival | Varies | Boston | The Boston Theater Offensive and Boston Center for the Arts is hosting a family-friendly event along with workshops and performances about what queer family means today.

For a complete list of events in and around the city, visit the Boston Calendar link here.

Get Your Bagel Fix

As a New York transplant, nothing tugs at my heartstrings quite like a warm, fresh bagel. Luckily for both my nostalgia & hunger, I’m not the only one who appreciates a delightfully chewy bagel and some great bagel shops have taken root in the area! Here are some of the top bagel shops worth a visit in the area:

Bagelsaurus
1796 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140
bagelsaurus.com
Bagelsaurus is a must-visit spot for any bagel lover. Located in Cambridge, this small bakery serves up some of the best bagels in the area. What really sets Bagelsaurus bagels apart is that they are all naturally fermented, just like a classic sourdough. The bagels here come in a variety of flavors, from classic sesame to more unique options like Everything Bagel and Miso Butter. Be prepared to wait in line, as this spot is always busy, but the wait is worth it for the delicious and satisfying bagels.


Pavement Coffee
Closest Location: 1096 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02215
pavementcoffeehouse.com
Pavement Coffee is another popular spot for delightful bagels. While they are primarily a coffee shop, their bagels are not to be missed and are made-fresh by Pavement daily. They offer a variety of flavors, including the classic plain, as well as more unique options like Jalapeño Cheddar and Cinnamon Raisin.


Forge Bakery
626 Somerville Ave, Somerville, MA 02143
forgebakingco.com
Located in Somerville, Forge Bakery is a hidden gem when it comes to bagels. They offer a selection of freshly baked bagels in classic flavors like Everything Bagel and Poppy Seed, as well as more unique options like Rosemary Sea Salt and Cheddar Jalapeño. What sets Forge Bakery apart, however, is that their bagels are also naturally fermented, bringing an entirely new dimension of flavor to their bagels.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic bagel with cream cheese or something more unique, there’s a bagel shop in the area that will satisfy your cravings. Be sure to check out Bagelsaurus, Pavement Coffee, and Forge Bakery on your next bagel adventure.

This week, all roads lead to Sólás!

It’s the week o’ the Irish, and nobody does St. Paddy’s Day like Boston does. In fact, one out of every five Bostonians has Irish ancestry, and we sure know how to celebrate that heritage. Whether you’re downing a Guinness in our Irish Pub, Sólás or dancing an Irish jig, there are so many ways to shamrock and roll this week!

If you happen to be in our neighborhood Wednesday thru Friday (or any other day for that matter!), stop by Sólás and enjoy a perfectly-poured pint of Guinness and some authentic Corned Beef & Cabbage. Click here to check out our St. Patrick’s Day menu specials.

Looking for some St. Paddy’s activities do due in and around the city, check out this link that The Boston Calendar put together – from movies, to cooking classes and the event of the holiday, THE South Boston Saint Patrick’s Day Parade!

Sláinte!⁠

What To Read This Winter

Though the current warm weather does not indicate we are still technically in winter, we are. Regardless, it’s never a bad time to grab a book, sit back and enjoy some quiet time. Here’s a few suggestions of what I’ve read recently. Happy Reading!

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First Born


by Will Dean
This psychological thriller is based on twin sisters who led very different lives. When one is murdered, the other sister is on a mission to discover what happened. This is one of those books that is so twisted that it’s hard to write a more detailed review without giving too much away, but just know that this was a very fun read!

MORE INFORMATION
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World Travel


by Anthony Bourdain
Being a huge fan of the late Anthony Bourdain and someone who is itching to travel again, I chose this book. I hadn’t realized when I bought it that he didn’t write it, his long time assistant Laurie Woolever had. If you are into travel and learning about different cultures and food, than you will enjoy this book. If you are looking for a true Anthony Bourdain experience, than I would recommend Kitchen Confidential.

MORE INFORMATION

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The Summer Place


by Jennifer Weiner
All families have drama and can be tricky. The Danhauser family is no exception. This book leads you down a path you think you know, and then twists in a way that is unexpected. Great summer read by another of our favorite Author Event guests!

MORE INFORMATION

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Lessons in Chemistry


by Bonnie Garmus
Lessons in Chemistry has been touted as being one of the best books in 2022, so I was inclined to read it based on a recommendation from the owner of Titcomb’s book store (shout out to Vicky!). This book is hard to describe – it is funny and sad and witty and frustrating and inspiring all at once. If you enjoy quirky and charming characters, than this is the book for you.

MORE INFORMATION
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The Hotel Nantucket


by Elin Hilderbrand
Being a huge fan of Elin and one of our Author Event’s favorite guests (save October 28th on your calendar for a night with Elin!) this is one of my favorite books that she has written. Especially because it revolves around a hotel and is spot on with the behind-the-scenes mechanisms of the business. Highly recommend!

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!

Real Weddings
Kate & Enes

Kate and Enes were married at The Lenox Hotel on July 9th, 2022, a beautiful and warm day in the Back Bay. The happy couple recently shared details about their special day with our Catering Team.

How Did You Meet

After many failed online dating experiences, Kate was ready to give up. Her childhood friend took Kate’s phone, opened her Hinge app, and swiped through till she landed on Enes. Tall, dark and handsome, he seemed to fit the bill. They matched, they met, and the rest is history.

What was your favorite moment of your big day?

Our favorite moment is a three way tie…on the morning of the wedding, we read our vows to each other in our hotel room. We were privately declaring our intentions to each other. Again, to be able to be back in the area where our relationship started to bloom, and then 3 years later, saying our vows to each other forever was like a fairy tale. This is tied with having our first look on a private balcony, and dancing together throughout the night—we never left the dance floor!

Why Did You Choose The Lenox Hotel For Your Wedding?

We chose the Lenox because it was in the area where our relationship began. Our first date was one block away at Earls in the Prudential. Enes lived two streets away from the Lenox, so we spent most of the beginning of our relationship walking along Boylston street and along the Esplanade. We have since moved out to the suburbs, so to have our nuptials happen where our relationship started made us feel we had come full circle. To be able to look out, on our wedding day, at the streets we used to explore when we were still learning about each other was truly special. It was meaningful to be in a place where we could reflect on how far we had come as a couple. We even got married 3 years to the day of our first date.

What personal touches did you add in?

Our table numbers were named after important things in our life: our dog; our first apartment; and other shared interests. We included pictures with descriptions. Since we met just before covid, a few of our friends and family were still getting to know us as a couple—for some, our wedding was the first time they got to see us together in person—so it was important to show everyone a little glimpse into our lives. Enes is from Turkiye (Turkey) and so we had our Dj play some traditional and contemporary Turkish music.Ben and Jerry’s The Tonight Dough and Half Baked are our favorite ice cream flavors so we had to have the ice cream bar! Our officiant was the person responsible for us meeting—due to her keen swiping—Kate’s childhood friend, Larissa.

Any Advice for Other Couples During the Planning Process or Wedding Weekend?

The day goes by in a blur, so make sure you are fully present. You have spent a long time planning everything, so now is the time to enjoy it! Do not carry your phone around with you— give it to your maid of honor/ best man. Make sure you have a point person who can make decisions and handle questions that come up during the day. Something will not happen as how you imagined, but the day will still be special, yours, and wonderful.

Anything else you would like to say?

Because of the constantly-changing COVID world, our initial wedding plans varied from our final wedding day. Mara was flexible, answered all of our questions, and helped us through each step of the wedding day. Even though we did not have a wedding planner, it didn’t feel like we needed one. Sometimes it is easy to get caught up in the rush of everything, but this is your moment to enjoy your one true love, surrounded by others you love, so just enjoy it!

Style Guide

Photography: Candid Memories Studios (Anastasiia Khokhlova)

Rings: Mouradian Jewelery

Hair and Makeup: Miriam Meza

Dress: Vows Wtoo by Watters

Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal

Groom Tux: 9 Tailors

Flowers: Central Square Florist

Cake: Dessert Works Bakery

Dessert: Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Sundae Bar

DJ: DJ ProperDimitry

 

What To Read This Summer

As we are now at the half-way mark of summer (insert sad face), I thought it was timely to put together a list of books to get you through until the end of August! Included is a great mystery, an inspirational travel book, a blended science/humor story line and some great beach themed options! Happy Reading!

________________________________________________________________

First Born

by Will Dean
This psychological thriller is based on twin sisters who led very different lives. When one is murdered, the other sister is on a mission to discover what happened. This is one of those books that is so twisted that it’s hard to write a more detailed review without giving too much away, but just know that this was a very fun read!

MORE INFORMATION
________________________________________________________________

World Travel

by Anthony Bourdain
Being a huge fan of the late Anthony Bourdain and someone who is itching to travel again, I chose this book. I hadn’t realized when I bought it that he didn’t write it, his long time assistant Laurie Woolever had. If you are into travel and learning about different cultures and food, than you will enjoy this book. If you are looking for a true Anthony Bourdain experience, than I would recommend Kitchen Confidential.

MORE INFORMATION

________________________________________________________________

The Summer Place

by Jennifer Weiner
All families have drama and can be tricky. The Danhauser family is no exception. This book leads you down a path you think you know, and then twists in a way that is unexpected. Great summer read by another of our favorite Author Event guests!

MORE INFORMATION

________________________________________________________________

Lessons in Chemistry

by Bonnie Garmus
Lessons in Chemistry has been touted as being one of the best books in 2022, so I was inclined to read it based on a recommendation from the owner of Titcomb’s book store (shout out to Vicky!). This book is hard to describe – it is funny and sad and witty and frustrating and inspiring all at once. If you enjoy quirky and charming characters, than this is the book for you.

MORE INFORMATION
________________________________________________________________

The Hotel Nantucket

by Elin Hilderbrand
Being a huge fan of Elin and one of our Author Event’s favorite guests (save October 28th on your calendar for a night with Elin!) this is one of my favorite books that she has written. Especially because it revolves around a hotel and is spot on with the behind-the-scenes mechanisms of the business. Highly recommend!

MORE INFORMATION

_________________________________________________________________________________

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

Five Family-Friendly Summer Activities in Boston (That Parents Will Love Too!)

When planning a trip to Boston, many parents are unaware of the wide range of family friendly activities available to keep the little ones (and themselves) occupied. It’s no secret that Boston has a rich history and many landmarks that make it unique. And while you may envision the kids pacing impatiently while you immerse yourself in all Boston has to offer historically, there are many things to do in Boston with kids that can make this a family vacation your kids won’t soon forget.

Here are 5 things to do with kids in Boston you shouldn’t miss:

NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM

When it comes to things to do in Boston with kids, the New England Aquarium can’t be beat. It is open from the end of June all the way until September, and it boasts an exciting array of aquatic creatures that will delight the entire family. You can see sharks, sea turtles, penguins, sea dragons, lionfish, harbor seals, sea lions and hundreds of other species. There is an ocean tank that is four stories tall that includes a Caribbean coral reef and showcases a multitude of fish from that area of the world. Kids love the aquariums touch tank, where they are able to get hands-on with hermit crabs and other species.

NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM WEBSITE
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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.

BOSTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM WEBSITE
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THE FREEDOM TRAIL

Here is a family activity in Boston that will appeal to parents and grandparents, while keeping the kids active and providing some educational tidbits about American history. The Freedom Trail may be left off many people’s lists of things to do in Boston with kids, but it is a rewarding experience for the whole family. Along the 2 ½-mile trail, you’ll encounter sites like the Old State House and Old South Meeting House that were important to American independence. You can also traverse the trail in sections if you have younger kids to make it a little easier, and there are both guided and self-guided tours available.

FREEDOM TRAIL : READ MORE
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FRANKLIN PARK ZOO

 

It’s impossible to miss the zoo when you want things to do with kids in Boston. From the beginning of April until the end of September, the Franklin Park Zoo is open for business and ready to put a smile on your family’s faces. The zoo spans 72 acres and includes many features that the entire family will love. You can explore various regions of the world and their wildlife, including Africa and Australia. There is also a wildlife themed playground and carousel rides, and lots of walking to tire the kids out.

FRANKLIN PARK ZOO WEBSITE
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FENWAY PARK

No trip to Boston is complete without a trip to historic Fenway Park, which opened in 1912. This is the oldest ballpark in the entire country, and there is no better place to enjoy America’s pastime, no matter which team you cheer for. The stadium is rich with history and tradition, and if you can’t be there during a game, you can take a one-hour guided tour to boost your Boston Red Sox IQ and learn more about the history of the team.

And your trip to Boston isn’t complete without a ride on the DUCK BOATS!

Leaving every hour from the Prudential, just a quick walk from The Lenox, the fun begins as you board your Duck – a WWII amphibious vehicle, for an entertaining, fully narrated tour and Charles River cruise, which includes all the sites that make Boston a city of firsts! From your high Duck Boat perch, enjoy the beauty of Copley Square and the stained glass windows of Trinity Church along the way to the Boston Common and Quincy Market. Your final adventure is a splash down into the Charles River for an amazing view of the Boston skyline. Ninety minutes of history and fun – no walking!

These are just a few of the things to do in Boston with kids, and it’s easy to see that there really is something for everyone!

FENWAY FUN : READ MORE

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Goodnow Farms Chocolate

Just over 30 minutes west of Boston in the bucolic suburb of Sudbury, Goodnow Farms Chocolate produces incredible, truly single-origin chocolates. Husband & wife team, Tom & Monica, made chocolate at home for years before they decided to pursue chocolate making professionally. They take a hands-on approach to sourcing their cocoa, having visited each of their sources throughout Central & South America as well as Mexico to forge direct relationships with the farmers. These direct relationships allow them to be completely sure that the cocoa they source is produced sustainably and ethically, using fair labor practices. They are also able to assist with honing farming and processing practices.

From sourcing, roasting, winnowing, conching, & tempering, Tom & Monica are involved in every step of producing Goodnow Farms’ award-winning chocolates.

They take the concept of single origin chocolate further than nearly every other chocolate maker around by pressing their very own single origin cocoa butters. A bar of dark chocolate is hard to perfect, but simple in ingredients – cocoa, sugar, and cocoa butter. By pressing their own single origin cocoa butters, Goodnow Farms ensures that each bar is as pure to origin as possible. Their meticulous roasting process aims to highlight the flavors inherent in the cocoa beans, never masking flavors with roast. Even the sugar used in their bars is sustainably & ethically sourced from Brazil!

Goodnow Farms Chocolate doesn’t stop at just dark chocolate. From whiskey & coffee infused bars to cow & oat milk bars to single origin hot chocolates, Goodnow Farms makes a chocolatey treat to delight any chocolate lover!

Next time you’re in our luxury hotel lobby, be sure to check out Goodnow Farms Chocolate bars!

Our Partners

Summer Concert Series

Nothing rings in the summer season like an outdoor concert. Luckily, Boston has several venues to choose from – these are a two of my favorites:

FENWAY PARK:  While our boys of summer are traveling, Fenway Park transforms itself into a concert venue and this summer’s line-up won’t disappoint. A few repeat performers, as well as first timers Bad Bunny & Bill Burr.

LEADER BANK PAVILION:  Ideally situated on the water in Boston’s Seaport District, this venue offers an eclectic list of performers. Ranging from old timers like Bonnie Raitt and Tears for Fears to the amazing Alicia Keyes – a summer concert here will surely not disappoint!

Find below which artists will be performing , dates and a link to ticket information.

FENWAY CONCERT SERIES – Tickets


Paul McCartney | June 7 & 8

Zac Brown Band | July 15

Def Leppard & Mötley Crüe | August 5 & 6

Bad Bunny | August 18

Lady Gaga | August 19

Imagine Dragons | August 20

Bill Burr | August 21

Aerosmith | September 8

Red Hot Chili Peppers | September 10

 

LEADER BANK PAVILION – Tickets


Trombone Shorty’s Voodoo Threauxdown | June 11

Bonnie Raitt | June 17

Tears For Fears | June 22

Jake Owen | June 23

Josh Groban Harmony Tour | July 6

Bare Naked Ladies | July 10

Alicia Keyes | August 10

David Gray | August 19 & 20

An Iconic Boston Street Comes Alive

The weather in New England can be unpredictable, especially in the spring but chances are you will find a stroll along Newbury Street and our Back Bay neighborhood quite delightful! The trees canopying the streets are starting to bloom and the shops and restaurants are starting to buzz with activity. Below is a suggested itinerary for a day in the ‘hood! Enjoy!

WHERE TO FUEL UP

Revival Café & Kitchen – a new café on Newbury, close to the Public Gardens, Revival Café & Kitchen has a rotating menu of coffee roasters on brew so something new is always available, as well as extensive menu of pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and lunch options

Pavement – a local coffee roaster based in Brighton with several shops throughout Boston. Be sure to try their amazing breakfast sandwiches, made on their homemade bagels

Blue Bottle – based in California, Blue Bottle serves up only pour-over coffee and espresso drinks, as well as delicious pastries from A&J King Artisan Bakers in Salem, MA


SHOP SMALL

Olives & Grace – featuring locally sourced food and gifts in the quaint South End
https://www.olivesandgrace.com/

Gifted – an independent, woman-owned gift boutique in Boston’s beautiful South End

Simon Pearce – shop signature handcrafted glass and pottery tableware and décor, plus lighting and curated home accents


TAKE A LUNCH BREAK

Saltie Girl – creative Seafood spot specializing in tinned fish and one of the best Raw Bars in the city

Trident Booksellers and Café – bookstore and café serving some of the best breakfast and comfort food on Newbury

Red White Ramen – tasty Ramen restaurant specializing in Vegan recipes based on Buddhist monks in Japan called Shojin


 

SHOP BIG

H&M – trendy fashion brand featuring the latest styles at affordable prices

Nordstrom Rack – great value on ever-changing selections of brand name, designer and other high-quality fashions

Anthropologie – women’s apparel and accessories, intimates, home furniture and décor, beauty and gifts


WIND DOWN

Piattini – a Tuscan inspired Wine bar serving authentic Italian plates on two Newbury street patios

Krasi– imbibe on Greek wines and feast on Aegean small plates in a beautiful space

Time Out Market Boston

Opened in early 2019, Time Out Boston brings some of the best Boston food & drink concepts into a unique indoor market just a short walk from our doors in the Fenway neighborhood. There are too many fun eateries to list each, but here are some of our favorites to give you a feel for the place, It’s definitely worth a stop if you’re in the Fenway area!

Lala’s Neapolitan-ish Pizza

Founded during the height of the pandemic, Conor Cudahy launched a mobile pizza kitchen to bring delicious pizza made with some of the freshest local ingredients to bars & breweries. His pizza was such a hit, he launched his first brick & mortar restaurant at Time Out Market.

Anoush’ella

Hailing from the South End, Anoush’ella features Eastern Mediterranean flavors like wraps filled with za’atar chicken & overnight-braised beef or their signature anoush’ella kofta m’anoush, a wrap featuring spiced lamb & beef kofta topped with mint, pomegrantae, sumac onion, parsley, tahini, and zhouk.

Gelato Table Caffe

Table Caffe first started in Boston’s North End and became famous for their amazing homemade gelato. Now with a spot at Time Out Market, you can enjoy their sweet treats when in the Fenway neighborhood.

Brown + Coconut

My daughter, Olivia, discovered Brown and Coconut at a holiday market (pre-COVID of course!) and fell in love with their products. While living in Boston, sisters Letisha and Zeena started Brown and Coconut as a lifestyle blog in 2013. A few years later in 2016, they started looking for skincare products that threaded the fine line between affordability and being good for their skin.

After failing to find what they were looking for, they developed their own range of holistic, with plant-based products to treat their acne. After identifying the ingredients they found effective in healing their skin, they began crafting entirely unique formulas. Countless hours of research, cosmetic chemist expertise, trial, and error led to the creation of their line of plant-based powerhouse products that not only do what they say they do, but that feel incredible to use.

After recent appearances on Chronicle and a segment on Dining Playbook, the sisters have been hard at work keeping up with the demand of online orders! A true family affair, Brown & Coconut’s headquarters is based right in their home in Boston-area. They’ve come a long way since they made their debut at their first-ever local pop-up event in Massachusetts, but what has not changed is their love for making luxurious botanical skin care that you simply can’t wait to come home to. You can pick some up right in our lobby or our online Mercantile.

Where to Stay for a Vermont Getaway

Heading North for a quick weekend getaway or a winter vacation, we have some great suggestions! Our partner, STASH Hotel Rewards, includes two historic and quaint properties in Vermont within their portfolio of boutique, independent hotels.

The Norwich Inn puts you at the center of all that the Upper Valley of VT & NH has to offer: exquisite history, diverse outdoor recreation, culinary adventure and proximity to Dartmouth College in nearby Hanover, NH. Steeped in history, the Norwich Inn captures the essence of the region. Dartmouth graduate, Colonel Jasper Murdock originally built the Inn in 1797. After a devastating fire, the inn was rebuilt in 1890. The inn still exudes its original Victorian charm to go along with new lodging buildings, the Walker House and Ivy Lodge.

Located in the heart of Manchester Village in southern Vermont, The Reluctant Panther Inn and Restaurant got its name from the wild panthers that have roamed Vermont’s mountains for centuries. With unparalleled views of Equinox Mountain from one of their twenty rooms & suiteseach room features antique furnishings, fine art, luxury bathrooms and cozy fireplaces. Make a reservation at the restaurant and see why they won the coveted Gold Barn Award for the locally sourced menu featuring contemporary American cuisine paired with an extensive, award-winning wine list in a sophisticated atmosphere.

Real Weddings: Mike & Gerta

Gerta and Mike were married at The Lenox on June 27th, 2021, a beautiful and warm day in the Back Bay. The happy couple recently shared details about their special day with our Catering Team.

How Did You Meet

We met on a very cold day at Oktoberfest at Harpoon in the Fall of 2015. Gerta immediately caught Mike’s eye in the crowd. Mike plotted a way to approach Gerta through the mass of people by noticing Gerta did not have a Koozie for her ice-cold beer (remember it’s unusually cold out), and so Mike gave Gerta his to keep her hands warm as an initial talking point…the rest is history.

Why Did You Choose The Lenox Hotel For Your Wedding?

We chose The Lenox for so many reasons! In no particular order – the stunning venue from the second you walk in the lobby, the Dome Room, amazing food, coordinators that go above and beyond. What we liked the most was the intimate feel for us and our guests that The Lenox would provide, and our expectations were exceeded!

What Was Your Favorite Or Some Of Your Favorite Moments Of Your Big Day? (Saturday June 27, 2021)

It’s very hard to choose one favorite, but something we will always remember is saying “I do” and sharing our first dance in the gorgeous dome room amongst our family and friends. Once the ceremony was over, the rest of the day was completely stress free and beyond amazing. From taking pictures all over Boston and in The Lenox, to the delicious food during cocktail hour and reception, we tried to soak in every moment.

Any Advice for Other Couples During the Planning Process or Wedding Weekend?

Give yourself buffers as you plan your schedule for the big day, because after all, what’s most important is to take it all in. Unfortunately, we had to move our wedding due to COVID, and rescheduling and moving the date around various time was not an easy feat. It was then that we realized we had picked a wonderful team of vendors that were so flexible and supportive during the worst times. Keep this in mind when carefully selecting your team of vendors. Besides this, enjoying your day and each other to the fullest is probably the most important thing! Don’t sweat the small stuff, and don’t forget to eat either!

Style Guide

Photography: Steven Schultz Photography

Video: George Street Photography

Hair and Makeup: Olivia’s Hair Boutique

Entertainment and Lighting: Team Sayles

Florist: White Lotus Floral Design

Bride’s Dress: Pronovias via Vows

Bride’s Veil: Custom Toni Federici

Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo

Groom’s Tux: Suit Supply

Wedding Bands: Glennpeter Jewelers

Visit Woodstock Vermont This Winter

It’s that time of year when many people in the Northeast head south in hopes of finding better weather. But if you enjoy the outdoors there is no better time to head north. One of my favorite areas to visit is Woodstock, Vermont. At just over two hours from Boston it’s a great escape from the hustle of the city. You can spend a week in this area and still not have enough time to enjoy all the activities winter offers.

The activity this area is best known for, of course, is downhill skiing. If you enjoy skiing there are options for all levels. New England’s largest ski area, Killington Resort, is just minutes away and offers trails for beginners and experts alike. It typically opens around Thanksgiving and most years you can ski until mid-May. There are also Suicide Six & Quechee Ski Area that offer a smaller, more intimate experience that are great for families and beginners. Stop by Long Trail Brewery or Worthy Kitchen for some great food and craft beers after your long day on the mountain.

If downhill skiing isn’t for you there are still plenty of other options. Try traditional cross country or skate-style skiing on one of the many close trail areas. My favorite spot in the area is Green Woodlands in Dorchester, New Hampshire. There are over 30 miles of groomed tracks that are all completely free. They even have warming huts along the way with complimentary hot chocolate. It’s a perfect way to spend a chilly Sunday morning. Feel free to bring your dog along for the trip as well. Don’t have skis? Don’t worry! They have a selection of donated cross country and skate skis you can use while you visit. A little bit further north in Fairlee, Vermont you can visit Lake Morey. In the winter they clear a 4-mile path around the perimeter of the lake. Bring your ice skates and do a lap or two. Or you can head to the center of the lake and join a pickup ice hockey game. The Lake Morey Resort has a shop that offers rentals of ice skates as well as cross country & skate skis (their nearby golf course also has groomed trails).

Other outdoor winter activities the area offers include snow shoeing or skinning (for a minimal cost most ski resorts offer an ‘uphill’ pass which allows you access to snowshoe or skin up some of their trails), hiking (put some Yaktrax on your boots and hike Mt. Tom in Woodstock for an incredible view of the town!), ski touring, sledding, platform tennis (one of my new favorite winter sports), and others.

After any of this you’ll be exhausted. But you won’t feel guilty treating yourself to one of the great local craft beers or great restaurants. Max’s Tavern at the Barnard Inn (Barnard, VT), Skunk Hollow Tavern (South Woodstock, VT), Arianna’s (Lyme, NH) and, of course, Simon Pearce (Quechee, VT) are some spots that won’t disappoint.

Head North He Says

Vermont can be the perfect place to embrace winter. And there might be no better winter getaway in the state than the Mad River Valley. Just 3 hours from Boston you will feel like you’ve escaped into a Vermont postcard as soon as you get off the highway. The towns of Duxbury, Fayston, Waitsfield, and Warren make up one of the Green Mountain State’s most desirable regions. Here is just a taste of what to do.

DOWNHILL SKIING:
Sugarbush Resort: Two peaks, 111 trails and over 2600 feet of vertical, Sugarbush has it all. It might not get the hype its neighbor (Stowe) up route 100 gets, but for my money Sugarbush is the best Vermont has to offer. Its big but not massive. Challenging but accessible. Perks of a huge report and charm of a family ski hill. Oh, and you’ve gotta get a grilled cheese at Walt’s at The Glen House.

Mad River Glen: Ski it if you can! This ski area is one of a kind. As America’s only cooperatively owned ski area, this truly is a community. Mad River Glen is famous for challenging trails, natural terrain, and of course, the single chair lift. They make it a point to keep the crowds light and remember no snowboards allowed!

OTHER GREAT ACTIVITIES:
Not a downhill skier or looking for some other activities? Check out Cross country skiing at Blueberry Lake or snowshoe with Clearwater Sports. Grab one of Vermont’s best IPAs at Lawsons Finest Liquids and grab a bite at Mad Taco.

WHERE TO STAY: Don’t miss the charming village of Warren and right in the center is the Pitcher Inn. Luxurious rooms, fine dining, and a location that lets you explore all that the area has to offer. The Pitcher Inn is exactly what you wanted when you thought about the perfect Vermont stay.

An Eastie Adventure

Only a hop, skip and free boat shuttle away – East Boston and the neighboring town of Charlestown offer several outdoor dining spots with spectacular views of the Boston skyline. We decided to spend the afternoon checking them out – below is a recap of each spot and links to their website should you decide to visit (check for live music schedule and summer hours of operation!)

 

REELHOUSE

6 New Street, East Boston

We started at the ReelHouse and sat at the outdoor area, shared a shrimp cocktail and some Navy Yard Spritzes – delicious! Located adjacent to the USS Constitution, there were plenty of tourists roaming around the area and fun to people watch!

THE TALL SHIP

1 East Pier Drive, East Boston

New to the area, the Tall Ship Boston is a 245″ vessel turned floating oyster bar moored on Pier One in East Boston. The ship has 3 custom bars built around the grand mast and offers amazing views of the skyline and harbor. It was really crowded so we had a couple of drinks and took in the fun and lively atmosphere.

WATER SHUTTLE

We then took the free water shuttle over to Charlestown to check out a couple of more places – great way to avoid the traffic and spend some time on the water – here is their info:

Running between Pier 6 Restaurant and Reelhouse Boston! (Weather Permitting)

Shuttle hours of operation are: Monday – Wednesday  3pm – 10pm &  Thursday – Sunday  11am – 11pm
Powered by Boston Launch Company

PIER 6 WATERFRONT

18th Street, Charlestown

A popular destination in Charlestown, Pier 6 Waterfront was hopping, despite the overcast weather! The restaurant was full so we weren’t able to have a meal but decided to stay and sat outside while we nibbled on the Mezze Plate and a couple of Pier 6 Painkillers – a delightful combo of rum, orange and coconut.

THE ANCHOR

1 Shipyard Park, Charlestown

The Anchor was our last stop of the day – Boston’s only two-story public gathering space and open-air wine and beer garden. This venue was really neat, and as expected on a Saturday afternoon – very busy! We each had a couple of beers on the expansive patio area and took in the afternoon activity in the area.

 

All in all, it was a great way to see a part of the city that I hadn’t been to and check out a couple of the new, hot spots – would highly recommend!

 

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