First Night - Boston

[Dana49]

We're planning on being in Boston on "First Night." The hotel is reserved and we're ready to go. What tips can you give us? Should we make reservations for dinner someplace, or are there opportunites to snack our way around Boston? Any help from those that have been there, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[TammiMcMan]

We've taken our kids to First Night for the past couple of years. It's a terrific way to spend the day. As for dinner, it all depends on what you want to see. They have activities going on throughout Boston all afternoon, culminating in the parade, family fireworks and finally the late night fireworks. If you want to eat at a specific time or a specific location, then I would definitely make reservations somewhere. We've always played it by ear, but we typically end up at Bennigans for an early dinner before the parade starts and then after the fireworks, we head over to Finale's for scrumptious desserts and a glass of champagne. This gives the crowds a chance to thin out (lot's of families head home at this time).

You can check out www.firstnight.org for a listing of this years events.

 

[TLinden16]

Are there kids in your group or just adults? If there are kids, be sure to check out the Radio Disney room at the Hines Convention Center. They always have bands playing, and they have games and activities for the kids. It's a lot of fun.

Make sure you get the program schedule in advance so that you can decide exactly what you'd like to do. There is a wide variety of events planned all over the city, and you should definitely try to have a plan in advance so that you can see everything you want to see.

Make sure you set aside some time to see the ice sculptures. They are always phenominal.

Dress in layers, and make sure you dress warm enough. It can get cold and windy when you are waiting for the fireworks and the parade to start.

I wouldn't worry about making reservations for a restaurant unless you want to go someplace very nice. There are tons of casual restaurants, and it's easy to just pop into one along Boylston Street or in the transportation building.

Have a great time!

Karen