Unique Boston Fall Activities

I always tell people: if you're heading to Boston, The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is one stop you just can't miss. I remember walking into this place thinking it was just another art museum, but I was completely wrong—it felt like I’d stepped into someone’s home filled with beautiful, global treasures.

I loved knowing that Isabella Stewart Gardner herself designed it this way. She collected over 7,500 pieces—paintings, sculptures, furniture, you name it—and she displayed them in this incredible 1903 Venetian-style palace. I felt like I was walking through time.

When I went, I saw works by Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Botticelli, and even the first Matisse to enter a public American collection. It made me pause, realizing I was looking at the very same art that inspired people for centuries. If you’re into letters and archives, you’ll get a kick out of the original writings from T.S. Eliot and Sarah Bernhardt too. I spent ages reading those.

You should definitely take a moment to enjoy the courtyard garden—it’s peaceful, colorful, and such a lovely surprise right in the middle of the museum. I always make time to sit there for a bit when I go.

If you’re into music or lectures, I recommend checking their event calendar before you visit. I once caught one of their jazz concerts—it was unforgettable. And the Landscape Visions talks are super inspiring if you're into gardens or design.

Trust me, you won’t just see art here—you’ll feel like you’re getting to know Isabella herself.

25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115, Phone: 617-566-1401

In Boston’s Waterfront district, I really recommend Trade. I found it by chance in a work trip one evening, and I’ve been going back ever since.

I loved knowing it’s run by James Beard Award-winning chef Jody Adams, along with Sean Griffing and Eric Papachristos. You’ll instantly feel that creative, passionate energy when you walk in.

If you're like me and appreciate a relaxed but refined spot for drinks and bites, you’ll love it here. I’ve gone for after-work cocktails, and I always end up ordering way more than I planned—those globally-inspired small plates are just too good to pass up.

I always try to grab a seat by the floor-to-ceiling windows. You get this gorgeous view of the waterfront, and inside, the space feels warm and stylish with high-top tables, cool lighting, and a marble bar that kind of invites you to stay longer than you meant to.

One of my favorite things? You can watch them make their gourmet flatbreads right in front of you. I still dream about the one I had with maitake mushrooms and garlic yogurt—if you like bold flavors, you’re going to be really happy here.

I usually pair the food with a classic Moscow mule, but you’ve got a great selection of wines and beers to choose from too. If you’re into craft drinks, I think you’ll find something you love.

Honestly, if you’re looking for a place that feels equal parts laid-back and special, I think you’ll be really glad you tried Trade.

Trade, 540 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02210, Phone: 617-451-1234

When I first tried Saltie Girl, I felt like I’d stumbled into a seafood dream. If you love seafood as much as I do, you’ve got to make time for this spot. It opened in 2016, and ever since my first visit, I’ve been recommending it to everyone.

You’ll find global flavors here, but with the heart of New England seafood at the center. I remember ordering a seafood tower and just being wowed—it was packed with littleneck oysters, tuna poke, and even Siberian caviar. If you’re with friends, that tower is a must-share.

I also love getting a few small plates to split. You’ve got to try the spicy king crab rolls—they’ve got a kick I wasn’t expecting—and the charred octopus empanadas are a flavor bomb. You’ll probably want more than one of those.

When I’m in the mood for something different, I always go for one of their toasts. The boquerones-style one with fire-roasted tomatoes is so satisfying, and the foie gras terrine with pickled plums? I still think about it.

If you’re into smoked fish, you’ll feel like you’ve hit the jackpot. I’ve had their New York-style platter and it took me straight back to some of the best delis I’ve visited. And when you’re craving something crispy and comforting, go for the fried Ipswich clams or the Gloucester lobster. I promise you won’t regret it.

So if you find yourself near Saltie Girl, go hungry—and maybe bring someone to help you try more than one thing. You’ll want to taste it all.

Saltie Girl, 281 Dartmouth St, Boston, MA 02116, Phone: 617-267-0691

I love that Aquitaine’s been around since 1997. It has this timeless charm that just makes you want to linger. If you go, you’ve got to try the French classics. I almost always start with the escargots or the salmon rillette. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll fall for the steak frites—simple, comforting, and so satisfying.

When I want to mix things up, I check out their house specialties or daily plates. I once had the hay-smoked chicken roti with charred baby carrots—it was so fragrant and tender, I still talk about it. You should also try the potato confit salmon with candied lemon if it’s on the menu. That one surprised me in the best way.

I usually can’t resist ordering the gnocchi Parisienne either. It’s rich, with that dreamy Gruyère Mornay sauce, and the caramelized zucchini adds such a lovely touch. If you’re into cocktails, I definitely recommend The Getaway. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the combo of rum, birch, maple chile syrup, and chocolate bitters totally worked—it’s bold and cozy all at once.

Whether you're planning a relaxed brunch or a romantic dinner, I think you'll love the whole experience at Aquitaine. I always leave happy—and usually already planning my next visit.

Aquitaine, 569 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118, Phone: 617-424-8577

If you’ve never been to the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, I really think you should go. I’ve been a few times, and every visit gives me something new to think about. It’s one of those places that stays with you.

I found it cool that the ICA actually started way back in 1936—as a sister to MoMA in New York. But what I love most is that it found its own voice in 1948 and leaned fully into contemporary art. If you're someone who likes art that makes you feel and question, I think you'll get a lot out of it.

The building itself is a piece of art. When I first saw it down in the Seaport District, I just stood there for a second taking in the design. It’s by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and it won awards for a reason. If you like architecture even a little, you’ll appreciate it before you even walk in.

Inside, the rotating exhibits are always changing. I’ve seen everything from powerful video installations to bold visual art and experimental film. And they don’t just stick to big names—even though I’ve seen works by icons like Frank Lloyd Wright and Andy Warhol, I’ve also discovered up-and-coming artists I probably wouldn’t have heard of otherwise.

One thing I always look out for is their Momentum series—it’s their way of spotlighting fresh voices in the art world. I also love the energy of the James and Audrey Foster Prize. It feels like a front-row seat to what’s next in contemporary art.

If you enjoy live performances, you should definitely check the calendar. I once saw a dance show in their 325-seat theater, and it completely drew me in. The space is intimate but dynamic—it makes you feel part of the performance.

So if you want a mix of thought-provoking art, striking architecture, and a glimpse into the future of creative expression, I think you’ll really enjoy your time at the ICA. I know I always do.

25 Harbor Shore Dr, Boston, MA 02210, Phone: 617-478-3103