We all recall sitting at our desks in our history classes (my worse subject ever), learning from our textbooks about events such as the Boston massacre, the American Revolution, the Boston Tea Party, and the Battle of Bunker Hill. You can’t forget the notorious midnight ride by Paul Revere where he warned “The British are coming!” It’s not the British this time, but yes, ACEP21 is definitely coming!

A few politicians have hailed from Boston—John F. Kennedy and Benjamin Franklin come to mind. A few activists have walked the streets of Boston—people such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X lived just a few short miles from where we will gather in October.

Today, Boston is best known as a thriving research center with world-leading medical facilities. This city is also a global pioneer in innovation and entrepreneurship. Boston’s rich history is not the only thing we are known for around here. One thing that is least talked about is this city’s depth and breadth of diverse culture, with a wide variety of restaurants and neighborhoods that carry their own unique characteristics and style. In my opinion, as a Southerner turned Bostonian, it is quite arguably the best city to host ACEP’s Scientific Assembly.

Not only are our medical and innovation centers noteworthy, but so is our “wicked good” clam chowder and lobster rolls. With Boston being a world-class culinary destination, there is honestly something for everyone with an array of foods and restaurants to suit any palate. Just pick your flavor of the day.

This year’s conference is in the seaport district of South Boston along the harbor that represents a newer, bolder side of Boston. Here, you will find a spectacular dining and entertainment scene with world-class seafood, steakhouses, and artisanal fusion dishes served along waterfront rooftops with spectacular skyline views. You will also find some incredible breweries where you can catch up with old buddies while tasting original crafted brews or sip wine while enjoying a burger. In the Seaport neighborhood, you can easily find well manicured lawn spaces where you can swing under the night sky, roll out a blanket, remove your shoes to feel every blade of grass on open lawn spaces, or rise early to do yoga along the harbor.

Here are a few of my favorite spots to ensure that you experience four perfect conference days.

Monday

On our first day when we are finally all together again and running into old colleagues, friends, and bosses, you may be wrapped up in soaking in the conference. Consider attending some sessions from ACEP Now columnists and Editorial Board members. Early Monday morning, you can catch Richard Cantor, MD, FAAP, FACEP, presenting “Cruising the Literature: Pediatric Emergency Medicine 2021.”