by Charlotte Bellamy

Created on: September 25, 2008   Last Updated: August 15, 2010

Can you 'see' Boston in 24 hrs?

This was the challenge I set for my family including a 3 year old pre schooler during September this year. Following a weekend on Cape Cod I booked our return flight home to allow us a whole 24 hours in this city; hardly enough I hear you say to get the feel of the place, let alone see the multitude of sights and visitor attractions it has to offer. However, unduly worried, I followed through with the plan and gave the visit very little organisation other than a brief look at a few Boston City websites, and collating a list of possible attractions to visit on a piece of paper.

The 24 hour trip turned out to be a great success, despite changeable weather. So, what made the trip a success and what would my recommendations be to others for a brief trip to this city with a toddler:

1.CHOOSE YOUR HOTEL LOCATION CAREFULLY.
This is the one thing that I did try to research and I ended up finding a gem. The Millennium Bostonian; located slap bang in the centre of all that is worth seeing. Overlooking Faneuil Hall, with the Freedom Trail running almost past its front door, it is ideally situated for quick access to the must see attractions.

Under renovation at the time of our visit (due for completion September 08) the hotel was a little chaotic to enter, but once inside, our recently refurbished room was large and comfortable and the king bed and its accompanying 8 pillows was a major hit with our son! We chose room only, and for $215 a night we had a new room looking out towards the wharf area of town. Whilst we experienced a little outside noise, I can highly recommend this accommodation for its location and friendly and helpful staff. www.millenniumhotels.com/millenniumboston/?keyword=m illenium%20boston&omniture=mecgoogle8

2.DON'T BOTHER HIRING A CAR.
Arriving by air you can reach the city easily using shuttle busses and the T underground system. For two adults (kids travel free) a 1 way ticket into the city cost $4. Taxis will cost around $20 but may be easier if you are carrying a large amount of luggage.

Once in the city, travel by foot, the T or by a city sightseeing shuttle. The city centre is easily negotiated on foot, and there is so much to see and so many alleyways to explore that using any kind of wheels may mean you miss something only available to walkers. From Faneuil Hall; access to Boston Common, the waterfront, Little Italy, Public gardens and the Freedom trail are all but a short walk away.

3.WALK THE FREEDOM TRAIL

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