Charles St, Central Boston

This street has got to be one of my favorite places in Boston--it has as much retail as the famed Newbury Street, but retains much more character, as the street actually seems livable. There are plenty of wine shops for the wine enthusiast, great little shops, and neat restaurants to try out, but there are also hardware stores and pharmacies--all of the staples you would need to get by. The old brick buildings truly are gorgeous. It almost feels like you've entered a time warp when you walk onto the street. Time your visit just right, and you could witness the Make Way For Ducklings reenactment parade, which is always a sight to see, with children in full duck costume.

Charles Street is in the Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston and runs from the Charles River to the Boston Common/ Public Garden. It is a busy road with lots of shopping and restaurant destinations, including some of my favorite spots in the city. The buildings are historic and quaint, with the brick sidewalks lending a real 'old Boston' feel. You'll find plenty of antique shops amidst trendy boutiques, and neighborhood eateries next to exciting new cafes. My pick for home goods and unique gifts is 'Koo de Kir'. You'll find beautiful accessories and furnishings that you won't find anywhere else. I love 'Moxie' (for shoes and bags) and 'Wish' (for great fashion finds), and don't miss the sidewalk sales here in mid-September. 'Black Ink' has cool stationary and quirky, fun gifts. If you're looking for a bite to eat, there are plenty of choices: 'Toscano's' (yummy Italian food...fun spot to have a glass of wine and some app's at the bar), 'Upper Crust Pizza' (one of my favorite pizza joints in the city), and the 'Paramount' (quick cafeteria-style spot with awesome breakfast). I love to heading to Charles Street just before Christmas. Grab a coffee or hot chocolate on Saturday afternoon, and take a stroll to browse for wonderful gifts. You'll get in that 'Old-time Christmas' spirit.....and best of all - it beats hitting the mall!

Charles Street is the main thoroughfare of Beacon Hill. The street is full of restaurants, shops, bakeries, a drugstore, realtor's offices and DeLuca's Market. The Kennedy family has property on Beacon Hill and when I worked at DeLuca's, a very nice woman who worked for them would come in and make purchases. I spent many hours at the outdoor cafe smoking cigarettes, drinking coffee and writing. Charles Street goes right between the beautiful Public Garden and Boston Common as it heads south away from Beacon Hill. It's not far from Charles River or the T.