A Short Bus Trip to Boston for the Holidays

Christmas is just a month away! As everyone awaits the festivities, there seems to be a never-ending list of tasks to prepare. With Thanksgiving having just past, a weekend getaway before the madness of the holidays ensues, could be the breath of fresh air you need to stay sane.

For most, all our vacation days have been taken and there really is no opportunity for us to go for an extended trip. That is why a short trip to Boston is a great choice for those looking for a restful weekend.

Most of the Boston attractions people enjoy are outdoors, but it’s no secret that the New England area is frigid during the winter. However, there are still plenty of places to see in Boston when the temperature drops. Here are some of the best Boston attractions to visit in winter:

Visit the New England Aquarium

Boston is a port city so it makes sense that it’s home to one of the best aquariums on the East Coast. The New England Aquarium is located just east of the downtown along the Boston Harbor. Pro tip: Before entering, take a few moments to walk around the exterior of the aquarium to take in the stunning views of Boston’s skyline.

There really is something for every, from touch tanks to a four-story coral reef with exotic fishes. If you get tired of all the walking, catch a flick at the IMAX theatre which boasts the largest screen in New England! Visiting the New England Aquarium is not only great option for indoor entertainment but is also an opportunity for you to learn more about East Coast aquatic life and ocean preservation.

Play a round of candlepin bowling

What the hell is candlepin bowling? It’s a variation of the beloved "sport" that was invented in Worchester, Massachusetts in 1880. There are a few differences to candlepin bowling, mainly the pins are thinner which makes them harder to knock down. The pins are also not cleared away after each throw, adding an extra challenge to your Friday night bowling night. Interestingly, candlepin bowling is almost impossible to find outside of the Canadian Maritimes and New England.

If you want a no-frills blast to the past, check out Central Park Lanes the Eagle Hill neighborhood. You will not find any big screen TVs here, just pins, a lane, and balls which have probably been around since the Second World War. If you to bowl in style and beer service, then check out South Boston Bowlarama.

Cheer for (or against) a Boston team

New York and Boston have had a notorious sports rivalry going back over a century. If you are a diehard New York Rangers fan why not a catch a road game at the beautiful TD Garden!?

Boston may be the only other city in America that can match the sporting pedigree of New York. The Boston Celtics are a budding young team playing behind the vision of Coach Brad Stevens and will surely be a good time. For hockey fans, the Bruins are rough and tumble team true to the New England spirit and will satisfy the hockey purist in your life.

Certified financial planner (CFP) with over 20 years of experience in finance. I like to write about finances, travel and gadgets.