BOSTON: THE SEAPORT DISTRICT & NORTH END
Beantown! I spend most of my fall portrait season photographing families in the North End and Seaport District. Dreamy backdrops. Here are a few of my favorite things.
SNACKS
Bricco Salumeria– I don’t leave the North End without bread from Bricco. I’m obsessed with their ciabatta with Proscuitto di Parma, Grana Padano Parmesan cheese. Cash only in the bread shop. Upstairs they have meats, cheeses, octopus salad, olives and made-to-order sandwiches.
Modern Pastry– cannolis are made-to-order and their flower cupcakes are HUGE and so good. We love their strawberry cheesecake. Cafe service is also available with a private party area located downstairs.
Bova’s Bakery– family owned and operated since 1926, Bova’s Bakery is the premier bakery of Boston’s North End. Open 24 hours! Located on Salem Street.
Monica’s Mercato– Best of Boston, this shop offers 4,564 types of imported Italian meats, cheeses, wines, homemade pastas and breads. Yum!
Polcari’s Coffee– Anthony Polcari started Polcari’s Coffee in 1932. Spices, coffee, teas and my favorite, toasted fava beans.
Flour Bakery– homemade Oreo cookies. Yes, let me say it again, homemade Oreo cookies! They are located around the corner from the Children’s Museum.
Bon Me Food Truck– easy take away Asian cuisine serving noodle salads, sandwiches and rice bowls.
Trader Joe’s– sometimes all you need is a picnic snack. Some yogurt smoothies, granolas bar, cheese and some fruit. They also have a bathroom!
PLAY
LL Bean Outdoor Discovery Program– L.L.Bean is providing fun to Fort Point Channel with Outdoor Discovery Programs launching from Boston Children’s Museum. L.L.Bean provides everything you need to get out on the water, no experience necessary.
Boston Fire Museum– if your little one is fire truck obsessed this is the pace to visit. Learn about the Boston Fire Department and meet the most popular firefighter on the crew, Sparky, the station’s dalmatian dog. Admission is free at the museum, but donations are encouraged. We hosted my son’s first b-day party here. They have a kitchen space, table and chairs and an ice machine.
Boston Children’s Museum– plenty of bubble, water, art & construction play here. They are open for 2 sessions a day. They close for cleaning mid-day. Grab a snack from the big Hood milk bottle. STEM/ ART/ VISUAL ARTS and they have a special new baby toddler section.
Martin Playground– this unique, public, inclusive outdoor space will ensure Martin Richard’s legacy remains a vibrant and positive influence for future generations. The pirate ship, rope tower and oversize swing are my kids favorites. Adults love their herb garden and misting station.
Boston Harborwalk– miles of harborside path encircling Fan Pier, perfect for walking, running or cycling.
Splash Pads– the Seaport and North End have so many splash pads. Rings Fountain is located in front of the Christopher Columbus Park, Labyrinth Fountain is located across from the Aquarium. Check out the South Canal Fountain, located across from Hanover Street. My kids love to hit them all in one visit.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum– get your history hat on. Travel back in time and literally throw tea overboard at the while learning about history.
The New England Aquarium– is a nonprofit research and conservation organization that has protected and cared for our ocean and marine animals for more than 50 years. Seals, starfish, and those penguins!! They have a great cafe and even better gift shop.
ICA– the ICA offers a robust variety of exhibitions, music, dance, film, talks, tours, family activities, and teen programming throughout the year. Expand your horizons with every visit and discover something new. Youth 18 and under always receive FREE museum admission. When accompanied by kids 12 and under, up to 2 adults per family admitted free the last Saturday of every month except November and December.
Lawn on D– where your kids (big and small) can swing on the giant O shaped swings, play giant chess and enjoy city vibes outdoor style. They host events, live music and even have an outdoor bar.
Fort Points Arts Community Gallery wander through this huge warehouse filled with local artists and artwork.
EATS
Mamma Maria– located in a historical townhouse in North Square across from the Paul Revere house. This is the place to visit if you want an authentic Northern Italian dinner. Slow roasted Osso buco, seasonal salads and homemade pastas. Dine in one of their 5 private dinning rooms. Request table 99 if you want your one room/table overlooking North Square. No kids menu if kids menu is your thing. Fun fact I worked here during photography school!
Neptune Oyster Bar– get there early. Located on Salem Street in the North End. Tiny bar. Oysters are SO good. Kids friendly. Lively /urban vibe.
Shake Shack– because sometimes you just want the delicious safe option. Burgers and cheese fries. Located a few blocks from the Children’s Museum and around the corner from the Fire Museum.
The Barking Crab– this place might scream tourist trap but we love it and it is Boston’s most loved restaurant. Located steps away from Martin Park and the Children’s Museum. They also do take out!
STAY
Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center– one of North America’s greenest hotels. Kid friendly with welcome bags for their smallest visitors. Inside swimming pool and Starbucks in the lobby sweeten the deal. Self parking lot around the corner or valet. Located a few blocks from Trader Joes and The Boston Children’s Museum.
Boston Marriott Long Wharf– location, location, location! Harbor/city views. Starbucks, indoor swimming pool. This is a great spot to stay when visiting Boston. The Blue T line located across the street. Valet or self parking one block away.
TRANSPORTATION
South Station– the transit hub of Boston. Trains/Busses from all over make their way here.
Water Taxi Vibes– for a cruise around the harbor. They’ll pick you up at multiple stops in the North End and Seaport, including the InterContinental Hotel and Seaport World Trade Center.
PARKING
Parking in the Seaport can range from $25-$45 depending on the garage or lot and weekday or weekend rates.
Stillings Street Garage
11 Stillings Street
Farnsworth Street Garage
17-19 Farnsworth Street
Atlantic Wharf Parking Garage
280 Congress Street
Weekends Only – $9 all day Saturday and Sunday.
