New England is such a magical place to spend the holidays. And Boston in particular is the perfect place for a quick romantic escape this time of year. Here are my hotel, dining and activity recommendations for the quintessential couple’s weekend in Boston during the Christmas season.

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The view from XV Beacon

Where to Stay

As I have discussed previously in my Ultimate Staycation Guide, the key to a successfully romantic weekend is always your choice in lodging. The goal here is to relax with bae, so you need to make sure your choice hotel exceeds expectations. And my top recommendation for a romantic getaway during the holidays in Boston is XV Beacon.

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Classic and refined
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XV is the place to hang the Canada Goose this winter!

Located on Boston’s historic Beacon Hill, XV Beacon screams old world Boston class, laced with luxurious touches such as a bath salt menu (with more than 5 options I have to add, I tried the Lavender relaxation blend).

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But what delightfully surprises more than anything is the excellence of the on property steakhouse, Mooo.

Dining

Long ago, Boston was not known for its innovative dining scene and was just a splattering of unimaginative good old boys clubs, many of which were steakhouses. But now with our city full of world class international dining options, the steakhouse sometimes gets a bad rap. And it’s for that reason that as a born and bred Bostonian it took me until 2016 to visit Mooo, which has been around for almost 10 years.

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Mooo’s tartare de boeuf is a must try!

And I have to say, I was utterly amazed at how well our meal both gave us what you expect from a steakhouse, i.e. the perfect cut, sear and flavored steak, and what you don’t always see but wish that you would, i.e. a buzzing modern atmosphere and an exciting menu. Again, in line with the feel of XV Beacon, Mooo not only respected its Beacon Hill address, but also pushed what we should all expect from that zip code in the best way possible.

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A perfect ribeye with marrow butter at Mooo

Another cozy restaurant this time of year is Trade on the waterfront. Located in one of the city’s hottest neighborhoods, Trade attracts a vibrant crowd every night. And with a tasty drink menu and amazing food it is great for a December date night.

Start off with the salmon poke and a flatbread. Then go with the steak frites and duck for mains. And to finish it all off, you need to try their innovative Baked Alaska.

What to Do

The trick to a romantic weekend is refraining from making too many plans. However, one holiday activity that you just have to check out is Gingerbread House Decorating at the Fairmont Copley Plaza. Feel like a kid again while drinking adult beverages—the perfect Christmastime combination!

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You can’t be afraid of making a little mess!

When was the last time you decorated a gingerbread house? We visited the Fairmont a few days ago and made this one, and it was honestly a blast! The perfectly festive couple’s activity!

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So much fun!

And for a sophisticated finale to your weekend getaway, finish off the weekend with a nightcap at the Avery Bar in the Theatre District on your way back to Beacon Hill. Avery Bar is beautifully decorated this time of year, so treat yourself to one more drink and maybe some charcuterie before bed!

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Some cocktails and bar bites from Avery Bar

Hope you enjoyed my top recommendations for a romantic holiday weekend getaway in Boston! Happy Holidays!

20 responses to “A Romantic Holiday Getaway to Boston”

  1. alishataneja Avatar

    Wow this looks like an amazing time! I would love to join:)

    Alisha

    1. jqlouise Avatar

      Thanks so much!

  2. pipesnbuttons Avatar

    OMG that steak!! I need to visit Boston just for the food! And who doesn’t love decorating gingerbread houses???

    1. jqlouise Avatar

      It was so much fun!

  3. Olivia Bunting Avatar

    Such a fun trip! That gingerbread house is so precious!

    1. jqlouise Avatar

      Thanks so much!

  4. mylifeaslaurr Avatar
    mylifeaslaurr

    This looks like such a fun trip! I’ve never been to Boston and now I really want to check it out. Also obsessing over that champagne bar 🙂

    1. jqlouise Avatar

      OMG you have to, Boston is such a wonderful city!

  5. Aditi Mayer Avatar

    I’m dying to visit Boston! This makes it all look lovely <3

    xx, Aditi
    ADIMAY.com

    1. jqlouise Avatar

      You defs should!

  6. Warren Pasi (@WarrenPasi) Avatar

    This looks like a fabulous get away and you both obviously had a great time! P.s That Gingerbread house looks so delish!! 🙂

    1. jqlouise Avatar

      Thanks so much!

  7. kirstenortez Avatar

    I absolutely love Boston! This looks like a great getaway!

  8. DymondM Avatar

    That hotel room is beautiful! All hotels make me feel glamourous tbh!

  9. Lydia Monson Avatar

    This looks so lovely! That hotel is gorgeous and I want allll the food

  10. Gigi M (@Itsasparklylife) Avatar

    I”m from Boston originally 😉 Great picks, I love the food at Mooo, so good!

  11. ericatironi2014 Avatar
    ericatironi2014

    This look so lovely and the cake is amazing!
    http://www.ericavoyage.com

  12. foeoe Avatar
    foeoe

    This Sounds like a Perfect Weekend! Totally Love the Hotel and need a steak right now 🙂

  13. Virna Gambini (@All_The_Rage17) Avatar

    When you ask someone where to go for a romantic getaway the answer is always Paris. I’ve never thought of Boston and now I’m happy to! Thanks for sharing

  14. Aldora Muses Avatar

    Wow this looks like an amazing staycation for you! Love the food there! Happy New Year to you by the way 😉