Boston Hotels in April 2008?

First of all, I should mention, keep in mind that the Boston Marathon is always on a Monday in mid to late April (this year it’s April 21st). So that weekend not only will the hotels fill up (I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re already full) but they’re probably even more expensive. Especially in the Back Bay/Copley area because this is where the finish line is. Also this weekend many streets are blocked off and it’s always INCREDIBLY crowded around there. There are also thousands of out of town visitors so restaurants, stores, and tourist sites will also be crowded that weekend. People come from all over the world as it’s one of the top 5 most prestigious marathons in the world. Of course it’s fun to see but if you want to be a regular tourist in Boston it might not be the best weekend to come.

That said, to answer your questions:

Hotel: Unfortunately the best hotels are also the most expensive. The best location for tourists, I would say, would be to stay around Copley Square or Back Bay area (there are several major hotels there) but unfortunately I think all are pretty expensive. Since I live here though I don’t know specifically about hotel prices in April. There are a few guesthouses/inns that are nice (have more character than the big corporate hotels anyway) and more reasonably priced. Some of the hotels in Cambridge might be more reasonably priced as well, although still pretty expensive. You can always try to find deals online. The good thing about Boston is that although it’s one of the most expensive places in the country – especially for hotel prices – all of the tourist stuff in the city is pretty compact and easily accessible by public transit, so you don’t need a car, which will cut down on expenses. (Actually it’s recommended not to have one unless you’re planning on doing any side trips outside the city).

Weather: It will probably be in the 70s during the day, and is likely to be very pleasant. But it could be close to 90 or as low as 50 for the high temperature (and get to 40 at night). It could also rain quite a bit, but it’s unlikely to snow – although even that’s happened but it’s not likely at all. So basically I would say to bring layers. You won’t need any major equipment like snowshoes or a down parka or anything – I’d pack a pair of jeans and/or shorts for sightseeing during the day, a light sweater/windbreaker/jacket, and don’t forget comfortable shoes.

Food: Two words to remember – Mike’s Pastry. It’s in the North End. Any of the restaurants there are good, but go to Mike’s Pastry for dessert. My favorite restaurant is Giacomo’s – great homemade pasta and sauces, and fresh seafood – but keep in mind they don’t take reservations, there’s usually a line and also they don’t take credit cards. The food is worth it though!! Most of the Italian restaurants in the North End are good though. For traditional New England food with an emphasis on seafood, I would definitely go to the Union Oyster House as well. They have good lobsters, clam chowder, of course oysters, and other seafood (you can get chicken or steak as well if you don’t eat seafood). Plus it’s an historic restaurant – it’s an institution and definitely classic New England cuisine and atmosphere. And it’s very close to everything, right near downtown. Those are my recommendations for food! Especially the Mike’s Pastry. Really… if there’s only one thing you do in Boston, go there. You can eat there and get coffee, or get desserts boxed to go – many of them travel well so you can even bring them home – but it’s absolutely worth it. (And no I don’t own it even though we have the same name. I’m not even friends with the owner. I just love that place!)