Food and Favorite Movie Sites

My husband and I enjoyed a kid-free trip to Boston this past weekend. We paid $0 for flights and our hotel, thanks to my sister, Nicole, at Points and Miles Teachers. 

We are the parents of two young kids; on this trip, we saw, ate, and slept– perfection! 

Hotel: Booked with Chase Ultimate Rewards transferred to Hyatt. My sister, Nicole, made me a Guest of Honor booking, and we got all the upgrades. Our room had a view of the Old State House; we enjoyed an upgraded room and complimentary breakfast each morning. Plus, complimentary bottled water. 🙂 

Flights: We earned points from our Southwest card to book my husband and my flights. Our Southwest card has a yearly statement credit, so our flights from KC to Boston were FREE! 

Here are some details from our time in Boston. 

1. Tatte’s Almond Croissant

Our morning began with an almond croissant from Tatte that was, for lack of a better word, f-ing bomb.

2. Union Oyster House

My husband’s search for the best oysters led us to the Union Oyster House, where we indulged in top-rated oysters.

3. Old Trolley Tour

The Old Trolley Tour provided a fantastic view of the city. We hopped on and off three times, conveniently stopping right next to our hotel. The guides were a highlight, offering unique insights that entertained us all day.

4. Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market

Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market offered a lively atmosphere with plenty of shopping and quick bites. It is a perfect spot for grabbing a souvenir or a tasty treat.

5. Florentine Cafe

At Florentine Cafe, we enjoyed a delightful meal with bread and bruschetta that left our taste buds wanting more. Grant’s Lobster Ravioli was 👌🏼. Pro tip: Make a reservation on Open Table.

6. Cheers

Dining in the basement at Cheers was a blast. The historic setting added to the fun. And yes, we did feel like Norm and Cliff for a moment.

7. Boston Commons

A leisurely walk through Boston Commons provided a serene escape. 

8. Bar Cicchetti

Bar Cicchetti offered a delightful breakfast experience in the Hyatt Centric Hotel. My husband highly recommends the breakfast burrito, and since my sister holds Hyatt Globalist and made me a Guest of Honor booking, we enjoyed delicious pancakes and upscale breakfast pizza on the house!

9. Boston Movie Magic

Being movie buffs, we couldn’t resist exploring locations from Boston-based films. The Old Trolley Tour pointed out sites from ‘The Departed,’ and we even saw the building featured in the movie. The tour took us to Charlestown, the setting of ‘The Town,’ and by the bench where Robin Williams and Matt Damon sat in ‘Good Will Hunting’ in the Boston Public Garden.

Final thought: When my sister first dove headfirst into points and miles, I thought she was on to something. I sat back and watched. Then, when I was ready, she showed me the ropes! In 2024, my husband and I are headed to Mexico sans kids on points and miles. 

Cards that made this trip possible: