How to Plan a Summer Vacation in Boston

If you plan a summer vacation in Boston, you will quickly realize that this city is much more than just a piece of history. With its historic infrastructure, fan-obsessed sports, pristine harbor and diverse dinning scene, Boston is has a big city attitude with a small-town touch. Follow these steps to plan a summer vacation in Boston.

Instructions

1. Choose how to get to Boston. Even with the "Big Dig" complete, Boston can be a nightmare to drive in. Arriving by train, bus or plane is much more relaxing means of transportation. Buy tickets and keep them in a safe place.

2. Take care of arrangements for your home before you leave. If needed, find a pet-sitter. If you're not having your mail held at the post office, have someone check your mail. Leave emergency contact numbers and an itinerary with family and friends in case someone needs to get a hold of you.

3. Pack accordingly. Boston's can change from hot to cold or from sunny to rainy without warning so be sure to pack something for all temperatures. If you plan on doing a lot of walking, be sure pack extra changes of clothes. You should also pack at least one semi-formal outfit for a night on the town.

4. Book a hotel. Always book your hotel before you leave. Use an Internet travel booking site to get an idea of costs. Think about booking a downtown hotel as this is where a majority of the sites and activities are. Although downtown rooms may costs more, you'll save money on taxi and bus fares.

5. Get to know your way around the place. If you are planning to use public transportation, learn the routes. If you are renting a car, get maps of the city and study them in preparation for your trip. The public transportation is good but confusing, so get a route map.

6. Research destinations within the city. Before leaving, make a list of all the things you want to see and do. Check on hours of operation and costs. Create a flexible schedule of what days you plan on doing what. Keep in mind that museums and theaters are often closed one day a week and sports teams are not always in town. Have alternatives in case of foul weather (see Resources below).

7. Look at tours and tour guides. To get the most out of the Revolutionary Walk, book a tour. Sports fans will want to get tickets to a Red Sox game at legendary Fenway Park, but book early as they sell out fast.

Tips & Warnings

• For a real Boston experience, try to be in town with the arch-rival Yankees are in town. Tickets to the game are expensive and hard to come by, but just watching the game in a local pub is an experience in and of itself.

• The Sam Adams Brewery, located in the Jamaica neighborhood, offers free tours and samples and is one of the most enjoyable breweries to visit.