Earlier this year the Massachusetts legislature removed the residency restrictions that prevented most same-sex couples from getting married there.
Couples from around the country are expected to flock to state to take advantage of the new rules. However, its not a simple as flying up, getting hitched, and flying home on the same day.
Massachusetts law requires all couples who want a marriage license to wait three days after they apply before they can pick-up the license and do the deed. Don’t worry, there is plenty in Boston to keep a couple busy.
The term "Boston Marriage" came into use sometime in the 19th century. It was used to describe two women who lived in a marriage like relationship. Apparently, not all of these relationships were sexual but undecidedly many of them were. Considering this, it is perhaps appropriate the Boston is quickly becoming the gay marriage capitol of the United States.
Boston has had a significant role in American history since the very beginning. As a result, the city is full of historic sites, buildings, and curiosities. One of my favorite stops is the Old North Church, where the two lanterns that sent Paul Revere of on his historic ride were hung. The church was built in 1723 and has remained largely intact as an excellent example of a colonial house of worship.
The church is open daily and requires no admission. Visitors are free to roam around and take in the historic structure. Just up the street from the Old North Church is Copp’s Hill Burying Ground. This historic cemetery is a fascinating visit.
It was founded in 1659 and is the city’s second oldest burial ground. Other historical sites include the U.S.S. Constitution, Paul Revere’s House, and the site of the Boston Massacre. Old Town Trolley Tours provides an excellent hop-on/hop-off overview of these and additional points of interest.
What’s the point of taking a trip to get married without a little romance? A room at the world-famous Langham Hotel will set the tone for vacation. The four-star Langham stands out among other Boston hotels for its high-level service and attention to detail. The rooms are spacious and quiet and the hotel is a short walk from most Boston attractions.
The Langham features the country’s only Chuan Body + Soul spa. The professionals at Chuan have developed exclusive techniques based on traditional Chinese medicine. A Chaun Element Massage could be just what the doctor ordered to alleviate any wedding day jitters. For a romantic night out on the town you should try the Spirit of Boston Dinner Cruise. Aboard the Spirit of Boston you will be treated to live music, fine dining, and dancing.
Boston also has plenty of nightlife options for those who want to mix some partying into their wedding weekend. Visit the Cambridge mainstay Paradise for a bachelor party atmosphere. Downstairs features a hot Top-40 dance floor but things get real interesting in the upstairs bar. There you will find Boston’s hottest go-go boys seven days a week.
The boys are young, and fit a wide variety of styles. Popular dancer Sal entertains with his overtly Italian style and dance veteran David is an up-and-coming hip-hop artist. Boston’s number one spot for drag queens is Jacque’s Cabaret. Just don’t forget that Jacque’s closes at midnight. Couples whose wedding garb includes lots of leather will want to make a stop Ramrod. The machine of gay Boston nightlife is, well, Machine. At Machine people mingle, dance, and generally have fun all night long.
Boston is an incredibly easy city to get around. There is no need to rent a car unless you plan to travel outside the Boston urban core. Most of Boston’s attractions are a short and easy walk from each other. Do not let the maps fool you, things are a lot closer than they look. Getting out of downtown to places like Cambridge is an easy and cheap trip on the metro.
Be sure to visit the area around Fanuiel Hall. The hall featuers a marketplace full of local vendors, restauraunts and more. Several site seeing tours also have ticket booths here. Street performers can often be found in the area around Fanuiel Hall and the neighboring Quincy Market.
So if you are ready to tie the knot (or just have a good time) go ahead and plan your trip to Bean Town. You will find history, fun, and romance in one of the most progressive cities in the nation.