Unusual activities, restaurants s or places to see in Boston

Question

We're a group of 8, with 6 fit, young at heart 60 somethings and two in their late 40's. My husband and I have been to Boston before, but the rest of the group haven't, so it's all new to them. We're travelling in May for two weeks and will be attending a number of baseball games as well as all the regular tourist haunts, plus cycling and duck tours. We're looking at some unusual and fun things to do that may be out of the norm. Line dancing etc and some fabulous restaurants that serve more than burgers. We're staying at Hotel Commonwealth near Fenway and we'd love some ideas. We won't have a car, but we're happy to walk, take public transport or Uber if needed.

Thank you

Answer

It sounds like you're in for an exciting two weeks in Boston! You’ve already covered the typical tourist spots, and now you’re looking for some unique experiences and great restaurants. Fortunately, Boston offers a wide range of activities and dining options that go beyond the standard sightseeing route.

Here are some fun and unusual activities you and your group might enjoy:

Harvard Museum of Natural History: A fascinating and less-visited gem in Cambridge. The museum features incredible exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, rare minerals, and an impressive collection of glass flowers. It’s a great stop for a more leisurely and educational experience.
SoWa Open Market: If you’re in town on a Sunday, check out the SoWa Open Market in the South End. This market combines art, food, and vintage finds. There’s a lively, community vibe with lots of food trucks, local artisans, and live music. It’s a fun place to spend an afternoon!
Trapeze School New York Boston: For a unique experience, why not try a trapeze class? It’s a fun and adventurous way to spend an hour. The instructors are great at making it accessible for beginners, and it's a great workout while providing a unique experience.
Boston's Secret Bars: Explore some of Boston’s hidden bars like Hong Kong Boston, a speakeasy tucked away in a restaurant, or Backbar in Somerville. These spots serve creative cocktails in intimate settings, perfect for a group looking for something offbeat.
Line Dancing at Howl at the Moon: Howl at the Moon offers an energetic atmosphere with live music and line dancing, which could be perfect for your group. It’s a great way to get the group moving and have a fun night out!
The Mapparium: Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, the Mapparium is a three-story glass globe that you can walk through. It’s a stunning and immersive way to see the world, offering a unique perspective on geography.

As for restaurants, here are some suggestions that offer delicious dishes beyond the usual burger fare:

Union Oyster House: A historic spot in Boston, serving classic New England seafood dishes. Try the clam chowder or lobster, or if you're feeling adventurous, try the seafood stew.
Oleana: Located in Cambridge, Oleana is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with creative dishes that will satisfy adventurous palates. The restaurant has an intimate vibe and serves some of the best Middle Eastern-inspired food in the city.
Douzo Sushi: If you enjoy sushi, Douzo in the Back Bay offers a fun dining experience with great sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese-inspired dishes. The modern atmosphere is perfect for a lively dinner with a group.
The Capital Grille: If you want a fantastic steakhouse experience, The Capital Grille near the Boston Common offers a diverse selection of high-end steaks and seafood, in addition to an extensive wine list. It’s a perfect place to celebrate any special occasions.
Bad Martha's Boston Brewery: For something a little different, you can visit Bad Martha's for craft beer and a fun atmosphere. Located in the Seaport District, it’s great for a more relaxed day out with some delicious bites and brews.
Coppa: A cozy and charming Italian restaurant in the South End, Coppa is perfect for those who love handmade pasta, creative small plates, and a great wine list. The intimate space makes it a great choice for a relaxed yet upscale dinner experience.

Boston’s public transport system (MBTA) is reliable, and you can easily take the T to most destinations. If you’re not up for walking, Ubers or taxis will take you anywhere you need to go within the city. You’re also in a great location near Fenway, so you’ll have easy access to many of these activities and restaurants!

Enjoy your trip, and it sounds like you’ll have a fantastic time exploring Boston’s more unique spots and savoring its diverse dining scene!