Check out the Runnah Hoopla on Day 2
We got up at 7am to knock out a three mile run before all the Runnah Hoopla began, passing Paul Revere Park, the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution.
Runner tip – Running early is a great way to explore a new city as you’re often out earlier than the people who live there and all the tourists.
The Bunker Hill Monument is currently closed due to construction work but walking the grounds and seeing the outside is still worth the trek.
The USS Constitution (aka Old Ironsides) is permanently moored at the Charlestown Naval Yard where she was built in the 1790s.
Cheapskate tip – Both the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution are part of the National Park Service and are free to visit.
Where we ate –
I was feeling pretty hungry by the time we got back so it seemed like a great time to grab a pastry and a cup of joe. Off we went to Mike’s Pastry!
Low stress tip – At Mike’s, you can get a really good, large cannoli but if you go any time after noon the place will be PACKED. It stays that way until they close for the day at 10 or 11 pm. So if you want to try Mike’s, go early. They open at 8am. Also they are a “cash only” business so be sure to bring some paper money.
If you really NEED a good cannoli and it’s during Mike’s busy time, try any of the other pastry shops and restaurants nearby. You’ll be able to get a pastry that is just as lovely though just a shade smaller.
We enjoyed our “snacks” in the little park just outside of Paul Revere’s house. What we couldn’t finish, was enjoyed by the pigeons there.
Since we were now caffeinated and full, it seemed like the right time to go to our favorite brunch spot – Stephanies on Newbury!
Because the weather was decent, we were able to eat outside and watch the 1 mile run put on by the BAA (Boston Athletics Association). We each a couple cups of coffee and split an eggs bene.
Low stress tip – This restaurant is SUPER popular, especially around race weekend. Save yourself the hassle and make a reservation on their website before you go.
Afternoon Runnah Hooplah
Where we went next – Fully caffeinated (and quite full), we headed off to do all of the “runner stuff” surrounding the marathon because…why come ALL THIS WAY and not enjoy the hoopla. In fact, if you’re hoopla averse, Boston around Patriot’s Day is probably not for you.
Runner tip – If you’re running the marathon, be sure to stop in at TrackSmith and consider their HareAC membership. It’s a lively storefront with great gear, a VIP back room for HareAC members, a coffee bar and lots and lots of excited, soon to be marathoners.
Next up, we went to Boylston Street for some pics of the finish line and to visit Marathon Sports, which was BRIMMING with excited runners, and those who are runner adjacent.
Where we drank – Sam Adams set up a beer tent on Boylston where we enjoyed a Boston Lager and a Wicked Hazy IPA. Here is Stephen with Ya cousin from Boston.
Our next stop was a brewery near Fenway to meet up with some other marathon runners. Since we were there, we decided to stop in for a quick respite at the always lively Lansdowne pub. This bar is always busy and is nearly wall to wall on game day. They have an ENORMOUSLY long bar but somehow still finds a way to feel cozy.
Evening Runnah Hoopla
Where we drank next – It was time to meet the other runners in the Boston Group on FB at Trillium Brewing! There are three locations in Boston. This one is right by Fenway and as a result can be QUITE CROWDED on game days. No worries, though, you just squeeze in!
Where we ate – Right across the sidewalk is the Time Out Market. This place is phenomenal for groups of people to gather. Think of it as an upscale, hip food court with giant wood tables and several bars.
While Stephen was catching up with the runners, I browsed all the options and landed on Mediterranean food from Anoush ‘Ella . I had a falafel wrap and I got Stephen a chicken shawarma.
Low Stress Tip – If you’d like to stay at Trillium, you can download the Time Out Market app on your smart phone and place an order to go. They deliver to Trillium or you can fetch it yourself once it’s ready.
We were going to head back to the North End to meet another friend but I got pretty queasy on the T because we were sharing it with a few hundred other folks and it was hot and smelly. Back to the room to recharge for the next day – Easter Sunday and Race Prep.
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