Hayley Domin

CitizenM opens its second Boston hotel in a prime location a short distance from Fenway Park, in the heart of historic Back Bay. The 15-story tower, which officially opens Tuesday, Sept. 3, is citizenM’s largest hotel to date, featuring 399 rooms with XL king-size beds and prime views of the city. The citizenM brand, which also has a property at North Station, is beloved by millennial and business travelers for “affordable luxury”—think: high-tech amenities, comfort and elevated hospitality, with nightly rates starting at $129. During a recent pre-opening stay, I saw the appeal.  The moment the elevator opens into the lobby, you’ll notice pops of color and the distinct design the brand is known for. At citizenM Back Bay, colorful couches surrounded by shelves filled with fun trinkets, and a rooftop area with views of the city are two common areas where you can sip incredible cocktails from the bar (be sure to try the Citizen Jasmine). The hotel plays a key role in the new Lyrik development, built over the Mass. Turnpike across from Hynes Convention Center Station in the Back Bay. Designed as a play-stay-work area for the new headquarters of CarGurus and The LEGO Group, it’s a European-style outdoor plaza, which gives hotel guests easy access to retail and restaurant amenities. A Rivian showroom is open now (one of the fastest growing EV makers in America), and coming soon are George Howell Coffee, Avra Estiatorio, a Greek restaurant; Pink Carrot, a café offering juices and he

While Boston is known for its history and charm, the city also has some funk. Whether you’re in the mood for a unique dining experience, an unusual museum or a hidden speakeasy, there are lots of cool places to go, you just need to know where to look. Grab a friend and follow this list of quirky things to do around Boston right now.  Go to a ping pong bar  Photograph: Courtesy SPIN   Located in the Seaport, SPIN Boston is an interactive playground for adults. Grab a paddle, rent a ping pong table with your group and enjoy full food and drinks service. There are also other options for those looking to relax, including giant UNO and adult-sized connect four. (Did we mention there’s also a full bar and a bathtub filled with ping pong balls?) See the site of an unsolved art heist  Photograph: Ally Schmaling, courtesy Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum   The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is magical garden oasis on the outskirts of the Fenway neighborhood; a true city-escape. Filled with various art pieces throughout its three floors, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a must-visit. While the monumental art collection and impressive courtyard of plants and florals are a draw, this museum is world-famous for another reason. In 1990, 13 pieces of art were stolen, making the Isabella Gardner Museum home to one of the largest unsolved art-mysteries. Drink inside a wig shop Boston has some fun speakeasy bars scattered throughout town. One new comer to the scene, Wig Shop, in Down