It is possible to escape to Europe without even leaving Boston this summer. No plane ticket required.
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a slice of Europe in Fenway. Its founder was inspired by a vacation in Venice, but the museum is full of art from all over the world. There’s the Spanish Cloister with colorful tiles, the Tapestry Room that feels like a medieval castle, and the Gothic Room and Long Gallery feels like a visit to one of Europe’s commanding cathedrals.
The jewel of the museum is the Courtyard. While the museum is frozen in time (in her will, Isabella stipulated that everything must be left where she approved it) the courtyard comes alive with seasonal displays. It is truly one of the most instagrammable spots in Boston. And in the words of Isabella herself “My garden is riotous, unholy, deliriously glorious! I wish you were here.”
The Museum is open until 9pm on Thursdays and is the perfect time to visit and enjoy the palace at dusk - romantic and mysterious with its LED candles.
Cafe G is an underrated dining spot. Grab a full meal, just drinks, or tea and dessert before wandering the Museum. The menu is small but mighty and has something for everyone. But our favorite is the polenta, so defiantly give it a try.
The best part? The Museum offers an Under 30 Membership for only $50! Unlimited access to the Museum, early access to concerts and events, and discounts at the cafe and shop. They recently began Under 30 Member events, which are a great way to make new friends with fellow art lovers. So it is certainly something to consider.
For more ideas on cool things to do in Boston read our guide to the best free things in the city and our top picks for things to do in Boston right now.