Noshing on a charcuterie board set on a lovely table makes for a memorable picnic in Boston, thanks to Pretty Little Pop Ups and the Kimpton Nine Zero (Photo by Moira McCarthy)
These days, Instagramable moments are a highlight of any vacation. But capturing say, a perfect picnic with friends at a beautiful spot isn’t just for those who hop on a plane. A getaway (or staycation) in Boston will do the trick.
Recently I got the chance to indulge in a sumptuous escape in the heart of the Hub. Tucked under a tree in the Boston Public Garden, with a low board table, a blanket and pillows, friends and I shared fabulous food at a bespoke picnic. How special was it? Many who passed us asked to take our photo.
This meetup is the result of a partnership between Pretty Little Pop Ups (prettylittlepopups.co) and Boston’s Kimpton Nine Zero hotel. (ninezero.com).
Pretty Little Pop Ups was born during the pandemic. North Shore resident Caitlin Taylor, inspired by online design classes, took her background in hospitality and love of the coastal aesthetic, and after discovering similar ventures around the country, decided the Bay State needed to experience this as well.
“I’ve always been in customer service and hospitality,” she said. “And I’ve also long been interested in interior design.”
The Kimpton Nine Zero team spotted her work on Instagram and asked to chat.
And now that Pretty Little Pop Up Picnic is an add-on you can check off when you book a stay there. It must be booked 14 days in advance, and if it rains they have a lovely indoor setting that’s perfect too.
You’re given a choice of a few locations close to the hotel — I suggest the Public Garden.
Taylor sets the scene — creating a warm, comfortable vibe.
You’re provided with sparkling and still water on ice, a fantastic charcuterie board created for you by Boston’s own Boards By Mo (boardsbymo.com), and special touches like games, cameras and other little touches.
You can amp it up by ordering full meals; the hotel can provide you with a list of places that can deliver meals to you on the spot.
And while Taylor can create a party of just about any kind for you just about anywhere in New England (she’s done engagements, birthdays, girl’s outings, retirements and more), the Nine Zero set up is unique.
With the Nine Zero in both a historic and convenient location, you can hop one of their complementary bikes and pedal to your picnic — or stroll down past the State House, through the gardens to your location.
For those visiting Boston from afar, it’s a unique way to experience a little nook of our city. For a local, it’s a way to experience familiar spots in a whole new light.
My two friends and I snacked and chatted with the city bustling around us.
I imagine the Pop Up collab would make for a memorable marriage proposal that I might want to combine with my other favorite Boston outing: a Sox game.
Or how about no reason at all other than a chance to escape and breathe right in our own Hub?
As I drove home, I still had that relaxed getaway feeling. It’s remarkable what a few hours of simple, lovely pampering fun can do for you.