I would add Island Creek Oyster Bar to the list above. I prefer it to B&G Oysters. It's almost next door to Eastern Standard.

Do make reservations, especially on the weekend.

And you can check taxi fares here: http://www.taxifarefinder.com/main.php?city=Boston as mentioned by Gail above.

For instance, it says the cost from the Intercontinental to Eastern Standard is about $17 including a 15% tip.

Depending on how long you'll be in Boston, sometimes a weekly $18 pass for the T may be worth it.

TG,

Thanks for the continued comments! I considered the Back Bay Hilton, but being close to the Faneuil Hall area led me to choose the Hilton there. The FH area seems like a unique place to explore/experience.

Also, TG, thanks for the list of restaurants! I look forward to checking those out online to see what fits with our style.

Gail, thanks for the tip on the AC issues on the MBTA - that's important.

CW, thanks for reminding me of the taxifarefinder that Gail mentioned earlier in the thread. I'll definitely check that out. Also appreciate the recommendation of Creek Oyster Bar. Melissa and I love seafood, especially oysters. We're blessed to live in an area (US SE coast) where they are plentiful and delicious!

We are really looking forward to visiting Boston. September will be here before you know it!

Robbie

<i>I considered the Back Bay Hilton, but being close to the Faneuil Hall area led me to choose the Hilton there.</i>

The only thing is that the IC is barely any further. The difference is like a quarter mile if you are walking. So you could center your FH/Seaport/Beacon Hill area exploring while at the IC and then center your Back Bay/South End exploring while at the other Hilton.

Of course, the core area of Boston is only a few square miles, so it is probably nit-picking to worry about the location at all and the Downtown Hilton is probably nicer.