Persnickety Toys
Photograph by Jared Leeds You won't find any beeping plastic doodads here. The name of this shop evokes both the fantastical nature of the toys on sale and the owner's choosiness in selecting only those that meet her exacting standards. Shelves here overflow with interactive gadgets and games, science kits, and beautifully illustrated books, all designed to boost creativity. Plus, the store espouses a hands-on philosophy, so youngsters can try out everything before their parents pony up their allowances. 13 Eagle St., North Adams, MA 1247, .
Wellesley Center
With the exception of a few tolerable chains like LF and the Rugged Bear, this tony town remains largely true to the efforts of owners with local ties: Jill Goldberg's home shop Hudson, Gretchen Monahan's temple-to-chic Gretta Luxe, Georgie Hotchkiss's crafts showcase the Gifted Hand. Everything from books to $2,000 Italian handbags can be bought from a familiar face (and when dining apré-spree, we especially like the one in the kitchen at nearby Blue Ginger). MA
Henry Bear's Park
The best toy stores have irresistible playthings and eye-popping colors, which is why Henry Bear's Park in Cambridge is our winner. From dress-up dolls to Go Fish!, this educational outlet has an impressive slew of books including ones by local authors who pop in for the Saturday morning reading series. Toys include blocks and stuffed animals for infants and outdoor games and science kits for toddlers and big kids up to age 12. 361 Huron Ave., Cambridge, MA henrybear.com.
Boston Car Service
Whether you need transportation for a big cheese from New York or just a ride to Logan at 3 a.m., traveling in a Boston Car Service sedan will do you right. Rates are easy on the check-book: From the Boston/Cambridge area to Logan, it's about $33 to ride in a swank Lincoln with a driver who asks your route and temperature preferences. Now this is living. 60 Kilmarnock Street, Boston, MA bostoncorpcoach.com.
The Goodwill Store
Sure, they're castoffs, but don't be surprised to see the original tags on brand-name clothing from designers such as Armani and Ann Taylor, for as little as $6.99. Not only can you find vintage 501 Levi blue jeans for $6.99 but other bargains include: best-selling books for a buck, leather jackets for $24.99, Limoges teacups and saucers for $1, and children's clothing for $1.99. Selections change daily and all purchases benefit Morgan Memorial Goodwill Industries job-training programs. 1010 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA .
Treasured Legacy
Rosalyn Elder opened this gallery/bookshop almost four years ago to make African American culture both approachable and affordable, and to foster a sense of artistic heritage that had been lacking in the community. Elder offers reproductions by such celebrated African American artists as Romare Nearden and Jacob Lawrence, as well as handmade wares form Africa and original art by local artist. There's also a great selection of African American books, toys, games, and note cards; the store is both an inspiration and an education. Coplely Place/The Dartmouth Street Shops, Boston, MA .
Catch
There's not a whole lot to Catch, a handful of tables in an unremarkable corner of Winchester. Not that we care: Chef Chris Parsons's palpable passion for seafood makes ambiance entirely irrelevant here. We could have been sitting in a dumpster and still had a dinner for the books, from feather-light potato gnocchi with Maine shrimp to crispy black bass with beet purée. We'd eat this meal 10 times over—if the menu didn't change daily. 34 Church St., Winchester, MA 1890, catchrestaurant.com.
Nine Zero
While not entirely indie—it's part of the Kimpton hotel group—Nine Zero is a singularly splendid place to lay your head. All rooms boast robes, European linens, and windows that open to let in the fresh air. But if you're lucky enough to book one of the Premier View offerings—or, even better, the Cloud Nine Suite—you'll be treated to some of the best vistas in the city. 90 Tremont St., Boston, MA 2108, ninezero.com.
Alexander's Spa and Salon
Near the entrance of this winsome little spa is a spotlighted chair emblazoned with "Maria Lekkakos" in bold script. Diva alert? Hardly. When the petite former Miss Massachusetts bustles into the waiting room, she lets you know her clients are the real stars here. The spa's modest size underscores its exclusivity: a handful of treatment rooms, a single pedicure "throne," a mini salon. Be sure to book a facial with Lekkakos herself, whose touch is nothing short of expert. 154 Main St., Wenham, MA 1984, .
Hunter Caldwell
Whether it's a question of what to wear every day, or for a special occasion, Caldwell is the one to call. An encyclopedia of colors, he pays some attention to industry trends, but mostly listens to what his customers say and want. He's also available for private bookings (he did Dennis Hopper's wedding, for example), but he's popular in Boston, so call early for an appointment. Chanel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Prudential Center, Boston, MA .
Mottley's Comedy Club
Performing a set at a sweaty, cramped, underground club like Mottley's is the embodiment of what comics call paying your dues. Owned, operated, and booked by two funnymen (and their business partner), Mottley's is a proving ground for some of Boston's most promising comedy talent. The stage show is the main attraction, but if you hang back by the bar, you'll get a second serving of entertainment—eavesdropping on the performers' post-set repartee—for the same reasonable admission price ($8 to $20, depending on the show). Trinity Bar, 61 Chatham St., Boston, MA 2109, mottleyscomedy.com.
Regattabar
What this third-floor space lacks in atmospher—it's more cruise-ship quarterdeck than smoky back-alley haunt—is more than overcome by the quality of its acoustics and the pedigrees of its bookings. The club has been the site of countless memorable jams by the likes of acoustic act the Bad Plus, singer Irma Thomas, the Leo Blanco World Jazz Ensemble, and Snake Trio. 1 Bennett St., Cambridge, MA 2138, regattabarjazz.com.
Coast Guard Beach
Thoreau once walked the 40 miles of the Cape's pristine eastern coast and wrote a whole book on the experience. JFK, also a fan, ensured that the shoreline and its marshes, freshwater ponds, and lighthouses were preserved for future generations. On the southern end of the protected strip sits Coast Guard Beach. With its rolling dunes and ever-shifting conditions—roaring one day, serene the next—it's a breathtaking place to stroll, lounge, picnic, or surf. Doane Road, Eastham, MA 2642, .
Mandarin Oriental
If you book an appointment at this oasis—and trust us, you should—make it early in the day. Why? Let's just say you won't be keen to rush back to reality after whatever sublime treatment you choose, from aromatherapy massages to detoxifying body wraps. Thanks to unwavering hospitality and top-of-the-line amenities, including a deliciously warm plunge pool, a quartz-crystal steam room, and a luxurious relaxation lounge, you'll want to stay all afternoon. 776 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02199, mandarinoriental.com.
The Sinclair
With top-notch bookings (courtesy of promoters Bowery Boston) and the city's best-designed concert experience, the Sinclair is the House of Blues, only more intimate; the Paradise, without poles obstructing the sightlines; the Middle East downstairs, with a balcony and style. And no other venue can sustain this level of buzz, with surprises like Converse's weeklong run headlined by Passion Pit, Slayer, the Replacements, and Chance the Rapper this past spring. 52 Church St., Cambridge, MA 02138, sinclaircambridge.com.