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friday 07.27.07
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| .weekend getaway: new england charm |
Boston is a wonderful place to visit in the summer--as the hordes of tourists can attest. Instead, take a quick detour off I-90 and discover the charm, beauty and history of one of the nicest areas right outside the city--Jamaica Plain, or as the locals affectionately call it, "JP."
Although incorporated into the City of Boston, JP feels more like a small New England town, with a quaint downtown and lovely old homes. A quick ride on the T will take you into Boston's city center, but you'll find plenty of reasons to spend a carefree summer weekend right here.
Stay at the Taylor House Bed and Breakfast, a gracious, meticulously restored 1853 Victorian home that features three large guest rooms, each with its own bathroom and queen-size sleigh bed. The Taylor House is located in the heart of JP's Monument Square Historic District, and steps away from tranquil Jamaica Pond. Part of Frederick Law Olmstead's "Emerald Necklace," a loop of green space that surrounds Boston, the pond is an ideal spot to rent a small boat and take a lazy, afternoon sail.
For lunch, stop in for picnic fixin's at City Feed and Supply, a neighborhood favorite with a great selection of sandwiches and natural foods, and then head to the nearby Arnold Arboretum, a lush public landscape that's also one of the world's top centers for the study of plants. Hydrangeas are in season now, but the grounds are rich with flowers all spring and summer long. And it wouldn't be summertime in Jamaica Plain without a visit to J.P. Licks, a staple for area ice cream lovers for more than 25 years. The flavor options change monthly, so this weekend is your last chance for some Oreo Cake Batter and Peanut Butter Chip!
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JP is ripe with hip eateries, such as popular, laid-back Zon's. You'll find "comfort food with a twist," with options like house-made potato chips, great burgers, and three kinds of dressed-up mac and cheese. Sip specialty cocktails like the Blond Redhead, Communist Daughter, and Bitters End. How can you not like a joint where you can end your meal with a stovepipe float (12 oz porter and ice cream)?
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