May 2008
Intro
Of all the cities on the US East Coast, Boston just might be my favorite — only Charleston and New York have the potential to rival it. The brownstones of Back Bay, and the great shops and restaurants of Newbury Street; the incredible history behind its magnificent buildings and world-class universities; its plethora of modern architecture, including Boston’s controversial City Hall and Cambridge’s Strata Center – all of
this left me with a lingering feeling, like I could live here someday. If I was literally forced out of the West Coast, that is.
So, when the opportunity arose for me to attend the 2008 AIA National Convention, I jumped at the excuse to swing a few days off work and re-enjoy some of my favorite things about Boston. After several architecture tours, seminars, galas and dinners, as well as some quality time spent with family in Cambridge, I got ‘on the road again’ to explore some of New England’s famous charm in the northern states of Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire.
Maine’s largest city, Portland, is hands-down one of the most charming “largest cities” I’ve visited in the States. Its walkable red-brick historic center was lively, uncrowded, and downright, well… charming.
Vermont left me with lasting memories of perfect little whitewashed towns like Grafton and Newfane (and too many bottles of maple syrup to bring home!). In New Hampshire, I made a pilgrimage to the small town of Walpole, home to a former New York chocolatier who moved his life and successful business here. If you find yourself in the area, don’t miss a stop at Burdick’s – and after buying all those chocolatey gifts for friends and family, make sure to get yourself a cup of their delicious hot chocolate for the road!
Journey Map
Featured Image
State House, Concord, USA
