Instead of a typical September or October tour, I’m going to suggest that group travel planners think a little “outside of the box” and consider a trip to Boston during the spring! Why so early in the year? Let me count the ways!
As soon as Mother Nature waves her magic wand and replaces winter’s icy blasts with gentle spring rains, magnificent flowers, budding trees and lush green pastures are sure to soon follow. April marks the arrival of two storied Boston traditions, which almost reach the level of religious fervor for some.
First is the arrival of the Red Sox from their Fort Myers Grapefruit League home early in the month. Please note that they are known only as the “Sox” locally, as the “pale hose” of Chicago are not recognized in these parts. Few cities take their baseball as seriously as does Boston, so early in the season is the best time to score tickets for a contest at historic Fenway Park.
Secondly, the storied Boston Marathon, held on Patriots Day in mid-April, is a really big deal, with thousands of active participants and countless more race enthusiasts who come to watch from along the route.
Few visiting groups would want to miss the opportunity to attend a live performance by the world-renowned Boston Pops, whose brief annual season in town runs only from early May until late June. Staffed by most of the members of the world-class Boston Symphony Orchestra, who don white jackets rather than their black formal attire, the Pops perform in Symphony Hall, the acoustically magnificent concert venue built in 1900.
However, traditional concert seating is replaced by cabaret-style tables for five, food and beverages are served by a uniformed wait staff, and featured guest performers run the gamut of different popular music styles. Furthermore, hotel space in the city is much easier to come by at this time of year rather than during the “peak” fall season, room rates are substantially lower, sightseeing attractions are all open for business, and attractive “shoulder season” air fares are available between Easter and family summer vacation time.
Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox
Statue of Ted Williams outside of Fenway Park, Boston
Symphony Hall, Boston
