Earlier this fall, Will and I hopped on a Thursday morning flight from Charlotte to Boston for a weekend that was part wedding celebration, part quick weekend getaway. Our main reason for traveling was to celebrate a friend’s wedding in Providence, Rhode Island on Friday. But we decided to extend our trip a bit to squeeze in some time in Boston. Our last couple’s trip was very different, so we were excited for a change of pace. We flew out Sunday afternoon, which gave us a little more than 24 hours to explore one of the most historic (and lively!) cities in the U.S. — and let me tell you, Boston did not disappoint!
We flew Delta out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is always our go-to when we can. Despite the fact that we’re an American Airlines hub, I’m a Delta girl through and through from growing up in Georgia. The direct flight to Boston was easy and comfortable, and within two hours we had landed at Logan International Airport. After grabbing a rental car, we drove about an hour to Providence for wedding festivities — rehearsal on Thursday and the big day on Friday. P.S. I’d highly recommend traveling into Rhode Island this way versus a flight into Providence- it saved us $500!
By Saturday morning, it was time to head back to Boston for the “fun” part of our trip. We checked into our hotel, and set off to soak in as much of Boston. Our home base for the weekend was the Boston Marriott Copley Place, and I can’t recommend it enough for a quick Boston stay. The location is unbeatable — right in the Back Bay neighborhood, connected to both the Prudential Center and Copley Place Mall. If it wasn’t for the wedding prior, there would’ve been no need for a car!
If you’re short on time, being centrally located is key. We were able to walk to so many major attractions (including Fenway Park) and when our legs needed a break, we had plenty of dining and shopping options just steps away. The rooms were modern, comfortable, and had those dreamy city views that make you feel like you’re really in the middle of it all.
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We kicked things off with one of the most iconic Boston experiences you can have: a Red Sox vs. Yankees game at Fenway Park. Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, the energy inside Fenway is electric! If it wasn’t such a huge rivalry game, I would’ve settled for a photo outside the stadium but Will was definitely in his element.
If you’re looking for a free option, visit the Boston Public Library. You guys know I’m a HUGE reader so this was at the top of my list. The building is STUNNING. I could have stayed there all day soaking in the atmosphere. Make sure you visit their website and find a self-guided tour map so you don’t miss anything. It can be harder to navigate once you get inside!
Sunday morning after brunch, we spent some time walking the Freedom Trail. It’s a great way to see so much of downtown Boston and it highlights historic landmarks from the Revolutionary War! Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes because it’s 2.5 miles and includes 16 different sites that make you feel like you’re inside National Treasure. Along the way, we also stopped by Faneuil Hall Marketplace, where street performers, shops, and quick bites made for a fun little break. While the trail itself is free, any attraction or interior landmark tour is not. I wish I would’ve realized that before we decided to sprint through before our flight! I’d only suggest this if you have plenty of time and decent weather.
Boston also has the most charming Public Garden! For such a major metropolitan city, it’s always a plus to have beautiful green space. You can ride the swan boats across the pond or just relax on a grassy knoll. And fun fact: The Boston Public Garden was the first public botanical garden in The United States!
You can’t visit Boston without visiting the famous Harbor! It’s more than just the historic site of The Boston Tea Party. Spend the afternoon at the Boston Harbor enjoying the waterfront views, museums, or take in the sites by boat. If we had more time, I would’ve loved to take a sunset cruise!
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The only place I’m sad we didn’t visit with our 24 hours in Boston was the Isabella Gardner Museum. The architecture of the building alone is an artistic masterpiece. It houses tapestries, paintings, and sculptures from around the globe. The collection is so awe-inspiring, it’s responsible for one of the most infamous art heists of all time. Next time we’re in Boston, it will be at the top of my list!
For lunch on Saturday, we decided on Lolita Mexican in Back Bay. We scored a table outside and could soak in the beautiful fall weather on the patio. The tacos and cocktails were just what we for a full day of exploring. The vibe inside is gothic and moody, so it’d be great for a dinner in the city.
On Sunday morning before our flight, we grabbed brunch at Café Bonjour. Tucked away from the main street, this cozy French-inspired café has delicious pastries, coffee, and hearty breakfast options. Hands down some of the best french toast I’ve ever had. There was a bit of wait to get into the restaurant so plan to eat their early if you want to get a table easily! Next time I visit, I will be coming back here for brunch again!
By early afternoon Sunday, we were back at Logan Airport boarding our flight home to Charlotte. Our trip was short, but it felt like we were able to hit a lot of high points despite the time constraints! If you’re based in Charlotte and looking for a weekend getaway that blends history, city life, and great food, Boston is an easy choice. Our stay at the Boston Marriott Copley Place made everything convenient, and the 2 hour flight made travel seamless. Even with just 24 hours to explore, Boston gave us plenty of memories. Where should we travel next? And feel free to leave your own Boston recs in the comments!
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