Spring in the Boston Public Garden. Photo courtesy of Marcio Jose Bastos Silva via Shutterstock.
For those visiting Boston in the spring, make sure to check out some seasonal experiences. From beautiful cherry blossoms to patio dining to special festivals there is much to do and see this time of year. To help enhance your trip, here are some suggestions.
Get outdoors
As the ice melts, the flowers bloom and the weather becomes warmer, people leave their homes for the outdoors. The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is the oldest public arboretum in North America, showcasing 265 acres (107 hectares) of tress, vines, shrubs and gardens. Here you’ll find one of the planet’s oldest and largest lilac bush collections, which are especially vibrant in the spring.
At Boston’s Public Garden you’ll also get to see beautiful seasonal sights like tulips, pansies and the color change of weeping willows as well as take a ride on a serene lagoon aboard a swan boat. Nearby, wander the streets of Back Bay, taking in the front yard gardens of the many Victorian brownstones.
Want to see it all? Try the Boston Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour
Have a patio meal or a rooftop drink
As the weather gets warmer, al fresco dining and drinking can make for an ambient experience. For an outdoor meal, dine on the patio at Stephanie’s on Newbury, Towne Stove and Spirits, Tia’s on the Waterfront or Eastern Standard, which also offers innovative handcrafted cocktails. For a rooftop experience, some top choices include Splash Ultra Lounge, Legal Harborside or the posh Colonnade Hotel’s rooftop pool and bar.
Attend a festival
Spring is a great time to check out some of Boston’s most whimsical festivals. Each year, Arnold Arboretum hosts Lilac Sunday, a full day celebration of flowers, live music, food vendors and family-friendly activities. This year’s Lilac Day will take place on May 2, 2013, from 10am to 4pm. Additionally, Boston hosts the Japan Festival each year with entertainment, traditional Japanese food, cultural performances and hundreds of beautiful cherry blossoms. May 19, 2013, will be the date of this year’s event, starting at 10am at Boston City Hall Plaza. The spring also showcases various parades, some of which include the Patriot’s Day Parade, Green Independence Parade and Haitian Parade.