Boston Travel Forum

Hi,

I'm a 25 year-old female from NYC planning a visit to Boston with a few college friends for St. Paddy's Day. We want to go to the parade but we don't know the best spot to watch from. Also, what is there to do after the parade - like bars and restaurants where everyone goes out afterwards? We're planning to get to Boston on Saturday, March 15, so we'd like to make some plans for the weekend before the parade, too. What are the best neighborhoods and is there anything Irish or St. patrick's themed going on in the city on Saturday or Sunday? Where can we get good Irish food or just good, affordable food? Any concerts or museums we shouldn't miss? We're up for anything, and would prefer an Irish-theme. Thanks!!!

The parade is being held on Sunday the 16th. It takes place in South Boston, on and around Broadway. There will be tons of things to do, from Irish poetry and novel readings to Irish bars hosting irish musicians. Look in the Irish Emmigrant for ideas, also the Boston Globe's Calender section, which will come out the wednesday before. I like the food at the Boston Beer Garden , on Broadway near L st. And the Plough and Stars in Cambridge, on Mass Ave.
And lastly, If you have time, go to the new Institute of Contemporary Art, on the waterfront, in Southie. Slainte, Garrett

Top O'the Morn'in. South Boston has the St. Patrick's Day Parade on Sunday, March 16, 2008 beginning at 1 PM. It will start at the Broadway T Station and march down to Andrews Square. In the middle of it all, sits the Blackthorn Bar at 471 W. Broadway for pure Irish fun. My VT pages on Boston has many Pubs & Bars listed, but there must be a pub on every block. Ah, tis nice to be Irish. Happy St. Paddy's Day to ye.

Sadly, based on the timing of your trip, I think you'll be missing the two most authentic Irish concert experiences this St Patrick's day. The Cheiftains are playing in Boston Symphony Hall on March 14th and the Pogues have two shows in the Orpheum on March 19th and 20th. I would highly recommend the Burren (http://www.burren.com/)in Somerville (Red line T to Davis Square). It's the pub where all the Irish musicians are rumored to end up late at night. However, you should expect it to be PACKED on Saturday and Sunday nights.

One non-Irish suggestion would be the New England flower show (http://www.masshort.org/New-England-Spring-Flower-Show) which will be open the entire weekend. Even for someone with no interest in gardening, it's an amazing sight with acres and acres of demonstration gardens inside the Bayside Expo Center! Think indoor park with shopping.

Enjoy!