What can you do in Boston for one day? Let’s take you to our canceled flight turn family city adventure.

After a restful sleep, my family and I headed to the dining hall. All our luggage are infinite in their final fit. All I needed now was a cup of coffee, which I earnestly requested as our table was set up. The morning was nothing short of normal. Boston Harbor glimmered with tiny reflected lights from the towering buildings and from the Hyatt hotel we stayed at into the waterways. Beautiful. Predictable, end of the vacation journey. I contemplated as I looked towards my family just waking up from their slumber.

Breakfast was served and we had planned to stroll around the harbor with the early morning call and the busy sun penetrating the very green lawn and trees. Shadows cast dancing in a morning ritual. But the server approached with a somehow questioned look. Not disarray. Just concern and a little baffled. “Do you have cash with you, sir?” The banking services were affected by this IT outage. A defective update from CrowdStrike triggered a major IT outage for over 8.5 million devices. This led to telecommunications, border, and transportation sectors (including airports and air surveillance) being affected. Unusable credit cards. And of course, our flight. Delayed. Indeterminate.

Giving it a chance, we headed to the airport and reclaimed our hope and the benefit of the doubt. The next thing we found were the airline personnel handing out voucher tickets for meals. As the time turned into hours, we bid farewell to our checked-in bags. This was the definite answer to abandon hope and rebook the flight for the next day. As our luggage sailed through the logistic highway of the busy airport and to our final destination, we headed back to the exits and embraced Boston. One pair of shirt, pants, and undergarments. Booked a night at the Hyatt Regency Boston and decided to enjoy this limited time in Boston.

This was the end of our vacation, and we had just dropped off our rental car after 2000+ miles journey across Canada. But now we were encouraged to splurge our last few hours to explore this historical city without a rental car, half a day worth of clothing (reused) and an optimism that far eclipsed the troubles we had.

Let’s embrace this city together!

Boston and its rich history

Boston played a key role in the American Revolution, with the Boston Tea Party being a pivotal event that lead-up to the Revolutionary War. This city served as a hotbed of revolutionary sentiment, where patriots rallied against oppressive British policies and taxes that they deemed unjust. The Boston Tea Party, which took place on December 16, 1773, was a direct protest against the Tea Act, demonstrating the colonists’ growing frustration and willingness to stand up against tyranny.

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Located in Boston’s Congress Street, this rustic Boston sign is near the Wax Museum and the Old State House.

This audacious act of defiance saw colonists disguise themselves as Mohawk Indians and dump an enormous shipment of tea into Boston Harbor, sparking outrage in Britain and setting the stage for further escalations, including the Coercive Acts. In doing so, Boston not only became synonymous with resistance but also ignited a flame of unity among the colonies, ultimately leading to a full-scale revolt against British rule.

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Downtown Boston is a true walkers’ paradise! This vibrant area boasts an impressive Walk Score of 98 out of 100, celebrating its unmatched walkability and inviting you to explore every charming corner!

Boston is a major hub for higher education, with institutions like Harvard University and MIT, both of which are renowned for their rigorous academic programs and contributions to research and innovation. The city boasts a vibrant educational ecosystem that attracts students from around the globe, fostering a diverse community of learners and intellectuals. In addition to these prestigious universities, Boston is home to numerous colleges and universities that specialize in various fields, creating a rich tapestry of educational opportunities.

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Heading towards Boston waterboat marina and Quincy market from our Hyatt Regency hotel, we took a few pit stops for quick snacks and an enjoyable past time of people watching as the afternoon grew even more vibrant. This was a great way to contemplate on how the day unfolded draining all distaste and anxiety from the IT outage and cancelled flights

Boston Waterboat Marina

We started heading towards the marina to catch the sun setting. We enjoyed this stroll as the summer temperature slowly dropped, comfortably engaging our senses to explore one more corner of this vibrant, beautiful city. Of course, an ice cream treat was not to be missed.

Just a round the corner the ocean opened up behind red brick industrial building catching subtle rays of diamonds on the horizon. Located on historic Long Wharf in Boston Harbor, Boston Waterboat Marina is just steps from Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, New England Aquarium, Old Ironsides, and countless world-class restaurants, making it an ideal hub for both locals and tourists alike. This vibrant area not only offers rich history and culture but also provides a unique blend of shopping (great place to find clothes to shop since we’ve been separated from our luggage) and dining experiences that cater to all tastes. But hold that thought!

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Charm and spectacular views punctuate this quiet and safe marina, where we enjoyed leisurely strolls along the waterfront while taking in the stunning sights of the harbor. Accommodating vessels from 30 ft. up to 190 ft. long, the marina is well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of boating enthusiasts, all while ensuring a comfortable and accessible environment for everyone who steps foot on its docks.

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Catching vibrant layered hues of late afternoon summer. Boston Waterboat Marina is the city’s oldest continuously operating yachting facility, offering a small-town atmosphere with big-city convenience. With its charming docks and friendly staff, it serves as a welcoming hub for both novice and experienced sailors. The marina hosts a variety of events throughout the year, creating a vibrant community where individuals can connect and share their passion for boating. Furthermore, its proximity to fine dining, shopping, and cultural attractions ensures that visitors can enjoy the best of Boston while indulging in their maritime activities.

Quincy Market

The lengthy but enjoyable walk called for food. And lots of choices were in mind. Just as I mentioned strolling along the marina, you are rewarded to have held the urge to eat because just a few blocks from the marina, the Quincy Market was the place to be. This food hub did not disappoint. It delivered an international choice palate and great ambience brimming with choices that grab you from all direction and desserts that sealed the nights highlight. It made for an easy walk back to the hotel.

Quincy Market is a designated National Historic Landmark and a Boston Landmark, reflecting its rich history as one of the largest market complexes in the first half of the 19th century. It was a major food distribution center for Boston for over 125 years and played a key role in the city’s development. 

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The market’s architecture is a striking example of Greek Revival design, with its imposing granite structure and central domed pavilion. This remarkable building not only showcases the grandeur of its classical influences but also serves as a focal point for the community, drawing visitors in with its intricate details and sturdy columns. Surrounding the market, vibrant stalls and bustling vendors create an atmosphere that blends history with modern commerce, inviting patrons to explore the rich variety of goods on offer. The harmonious relationship between the architectural elements and the lively market activities creates a unique experience that honors the past while celebrating the present.

The market features seasonal events like concert series, festivals, and street performers, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. It’s a place where locals and tourists can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment.  Quincy Market offers a wide variety of food vendors, ranging from Boston classics like clam chowder and lobster rolls to international cuisines like gyros and sushi. It’s a popular spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely meal. 

Boston Children’s Museum

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After a long nights rest we reclaimed our spirited adventure and picked a perfect day intro. As the last few hours in downtown Boston, we decided to head to the Boston Children Museum where we took in downtown Boston from all direction. A moderate walk on a beautiful overcast day encouraged a steady playful stride and a few pose for picture- a souvenir perfect from the city.

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Located on Children’s Wharf along the Fort Point Channel, Boston Children’s Museum is the second oldest children’s museum in the United States. It contains many activities meant to both amuse and educate young children, helping to foster a love for learning and exploration from an early age. The museum features interactive exhibits that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration among peers, making each visit a unique experience. Families can engage in hands-on activities that delve into art, science, and cultural experiences, ensuring children not only have fun but also gain valuable knowledge that can spark their curiosity and critical thinking skills.

Ok, where are my history buff at?

The museum has a space that feature Winnie the pooh story.

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At the onset of World War I in August 1914, the brave Lt. Harry Colebourn from The Fort Garry Horse, a Canadian cavalry regiment, stepped forward to serve his country with fervor. On 24 August, en route to Valcartier in Quebec to join the Canadian Army Veterinary Corps, destiny unveiled itself as he stumbled upon a young bear cub at a train stop in White River, Ontario, which he purchased for a modest $20 (approximately $524 in 2023). This innocent little creature had likely endured the heart-wrenching loss of its mother that spring when it was barely a few weeks old. The identity of the hunter who captured the bear and played a role in its early socialization remains a mystery, yet it was Colebourn who bestowed upon the bear the heartwarming name “Winnie,” a tribute to his beloved hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Winnie accompanied him to Valcartier and all the way to England, becoming the mascot of the CAVC and a pet to the Second Canadian Infantry Brigade Headquarters. Visit the museum to learn more!

More walking

Heading northwest towards the entrance to the Embrace Memorial Park from the Boston Children’s Museum took us a collective 30 minutes, with a quick snack in between. Beautiful city scape played shadow and seek as our tall eager stride welcomed an open idea of street food and outdoor stroll- an ice cream treat or two!

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The Embrace

This stunning new statue honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King titled The Embrace. A magnificent 20-foot-tall bronze sculpture that captures the essence of their enduring love with arms entwined in a heartfelt hug, inspired by a powerful photograph of the couple celebrating MLK’s Nobel Prize win in 1964.

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During the dedication ceremony, Martin Luther King III passionately declared that the statue “truly signifies the bonds of love shared by my parents,” reminding us all of the profound impact of their love and commitment to justice.

Boston public garden foot bridge

Just a stroll away from the inspiring Embrace statue lies the enchanting lagoon, where elegant swan boats glide gracefully across the water, inviting you to join the summer’s embrace in their charm. The picturesque public garden footbridge gestures you to explore its beautiful blossomed floral display and serenity from a vantage point view.

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left: The Boston Public Garden Foot Bridge is a pedestrian bridge crossing the lagoon | The time required to explore the Boston Public Garden varies: one to two hours for a casual walk, and three hours if enjoying activities like riding Swan Boats or picnicking. Its location near other attractions allows for an extended visit to the city.

The Boston Public Garden is not just a beautiful historic spot in Boston; it’s a breathtaking oasis brimming with life and enchantment! As the very first public botanical garden in the U.S., it captivates visitors with its meticulously maintained landscapes and iconic attractions like the charming Swan Boats and timeless statues. Whether you’re reveling in the vibrant floral displays, gliding serenely across the lagoon, or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, every moment here is a treasure waiting to be discovered. The garden passionately embodies the spirit of Boston, offering an unforgettable experience that stirs the soul. Its peaceful setting in the city center offers visitors a chance to enjoy nature, art and history all in one place.

We embrace and bid farewell

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One of my favorite pastime is buying old used books which perfectly fit my budget, entertained our last few minutes before heading to the airport, and got to meet few locals.

We headed back to our hotel just a short walking distance away to collect our remaining luggage. We put on our last bit of clean clothing preparing for our flight back to California. This was an unexpected way to end our two week vacation and a more welcomed adventure we fully embraced. Boston was such a wonderful detour and experience. It brought out the creativity in navigating misadventures and delayed flights to a whole new world experience for our family.

Embrace the hiccups along the way. It is a big part of the whole travel experience, and while it is a hassle in a lot of senses (luggage separated and rerouted to in two different states!), we’ve managed to navigate through the blurred chaos and noise. It brought resilience and unnerved the unnecessary. We collected instead a family bond and adventure in a City most welcoming and gentle.

Thank you for the coffee!

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