3-day Boston itinerary feedback/suggestions

Question

Visiting Boston 2nd week November for 3 days (older couple who love to walk). Have done a lot of research and have a plan but interested in feedback. Day 1: Staying in financial district, Duck Boat Tour, Mary Eddy's Library, visit parks and pubs. Day 2: Freedom Trail Tour, Food Tour, USS Constitution. Day 3: Haymarket, Quincy, Faneuil Hall. Appreciate any suggestions or changes due to layout of area.

Answer

Your 3-day Boston itinerary looks fantastic, and you've already covered a lot of the city's highlights. Since you love walking, you'll find Boston to be very walkable, with its charming neighborhoods, historical sites, and vibrant atmosphere. Here are a few suggestions and feedback to make the most of your time in Boston:

Day 1: Financial District, Duck Boat Tour, Mary Eddy's Library, Parks, and Pubs

Your first day is a great mix of sightseeing and relaxation. Staying in the Financial District places you in the heart of the city, making it easy to explore. Here are a few additional thoughts:

Duck Boat Tour: A classic Boston experience, and it's great that you're starting with it! Make sure to book in advance as the tours can fill up, especially in November when there are fewer tours operating. Also, since you’ll be on the water and outside, dress warmly!
Mary Eddy's Library: This is a wonderful stop for history and architecture lovers. If you haven’t already, check if any of the free tours are available during your visit, as they provide great insight into the library’s history.
Visit Parks: Since you love to walk, after the library, consider walking to Boston Common and the Public Garden, both of which are close by. These parks are beautiful in any season, but November offers a serene, fall atmosphere. You can also check out the nearby Boston Athenaeum, another stunning library worth visiting.
Pubs: For a relaxing evening, head to one of Boston’s famous pubs. Consider visiting the historic Union Oyster House or the Green Dragon Tavern for a drink and some local history. Both are rich in Boston’s heritage and conveniently located.

Day 2: Freedom Trail Tour, Food Tour, USS Constitution

Day 2 is a perfect mix of history, culture, and food, which is ideal for getting the full Boston experience. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Freedom Trail Tour: This is a must-do! You’ll be walking a lot on the Freedom Trail, so wear comfortable shoes. If you're starting from the Financial District, you'll be near the beginning of the trail, which starts at the Boston Common. You might also consider joining a guided tour, as it provides more context to the historical landmarks, including Paul Revere’s House and Old North Church.
Food Tour: A food tour is a great way to dive into Boston’s culinary scene. A couple of options to consider include a North End food tour (where you’ll sample Italian pastries, seafood, and local dishes) or a tour of the Seaport District for more modern, upscale offerings. Both are excellent, depending on your taste preferences.
USS Constitution: The USS Constitution is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in American history. It’s a great stop after a morning of walking along the Freedom Trail. Since the USS Constitution is located in the Charlestown Navy Yard, it’s a short walk from the Freedom Trail, but if you’re tired, consider taking the Boston Harborwalk, a scenic route along the waterfront.

Day 3: Haymarket, Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall

On your final day, you’ll experience the heart of Boston’s market scene. Here are some thoughts to enhance your day:

Haymarket: Haymarket is a lively farmers' market near Faneuil Hall. It’s best visited in the morning, as the market winds down by the afternoon. You’ll find local produce, handmade goods, and some great snack options. It’s also a great place to experience Boston’s vibrant culture and pick up some fresh produce.
Quincy Market & Faneuil Hall: These two historical sites are right next to each other. Quincy Market has a great food court, but also check out the artisan shops inside. Faneuil Hall has a rich history, and while it’s often busy with tourists, it’s worth a visit. If you’re interested in history, you can also take a free tour of Faneuil Hall to learn more about its role in the American Revolution.
Boston Harborwalk: If you’re looking for one last scenic walk, head towards the Boston Harborwalk. This waterfront path provides beautiful views of the harbor, and it’s a peaceful place to end your trip.

Additional Suggestions:

Charles River Esplanade: If you have some extra time and want to add a more scenic walk, head to the Charles River Esplanade, a beautiful park along the river with views of the skyline and the iconic Esplanade Bridge. This is especially nice in November with the fall foliage.
Harvard Square: If you want to explore a bit beyond the city, take a short trip to Harvard Square in Cambridge. It's a great area for a leisurely walk, with beautiful historic architecture, shops, and cafes.

Overall, your itinerary is well-balanced, and you’ve covered all the key spots. The suggestions above are just little tweaks to enhance your walking experience. Enjoy your time in Boston, and have a wonderful trip!

3-day Boston itinerary feedback/suggestions

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