American Association of Law Libraries
2004 Annual Meeting, July 10-14
Boston, Massachusetts

Planning Ahead

To get yourself in a Boston mindset, read some Books Set in Boston or see some Movies Set in Boston for our picks that capture the essence of our town.

Ever wonder what to bring with you to the conference? We all know how to dress for success, but do you know What to Wear in Boston during July?

During the Annual Meeting, we have planned a number of excellent excursions, but buy your ticket soon because these will sell out quickly. The Arts & Music guide includes free and ticketed entertainment. Many of the music venues sell out quickly, so check their schedules and buy your ticket before you come to Boston.

Whether you are planning to take some time to vacation in Boston or you have some free time for entertainment during the conference, check our entertainment deals and hot tickets/places to book ahead. Our "Enjoy Boston" guides (see navigation bar on the left side of the screen) give you the low down on the best of Boston, but as a savvy consumer you will want to find out how to get the most bang for your buck or how to find those elusive tickets.

Boston is known as a foodie's mecca. If you're unsure of where to start, sign up for a dine around on Sunday July 11. If you need more ideas for dining, see our comprehensive Restaurant Guide. For those of you who love the nightlife, check out our Nightlife Guide for some suggestions of places near the Convention Center and where to find more information on bars, clubs, and other fun hangouts.

Coffee or Tea? We love them too. Check out our Coffee & Tea guide for the closest place to get your favorite beverage, early or late.

If you are planning to visit some of our many wonderful bookstores, please be aware that many smaller businesses may close for vacation during the summer. If you are not able to join one of the planned library tours, check out our list of Boston area libraries for some places to check out on your own. Please note that many academic law libraries have reduced summer hours.

Many Boston places of worship hold joint services in the summer, in rotating locations. Be sure to check their websites for the latest information. We have also collected links for locating AA and other support meetings in Boston.

Finally, if you want to learn more about how to stay in touch with friends and family via the Internet outside of exhibit hall hours, check out our Internet Access At and Near the Convention Center.

What to Wear

"If you don't like the weather, just wait a minute". This Bostonians' mantra is not to be taken lightly. The fashion police may not hunt you down if you dress improperly, but you may end up uncomfortable. The average high temperature in Boston in July is 74 degrees. However, the lowest low recorded for July was 50 degrees and stretches of 90+ days are not uncommon.

So, what should you pack for Boston? The keyword here is LAYERS. If you like to pack light and take your chances, check our shopping guide for last minute shopping.

The Hynes Convention Center is a typical large structure, with air conditioning that tends to be on the chilly side. Therefore, make sure to pack a light sweater. The sweater will also help on those breezy summer nights or if you go on a sunset cruise of Boston.

Since Boston is "America's walking city", comfortable shoes are a must. While we provide T directions to most destinations away from the convention center, it is often necessary to walk a few blocks from the T to catch the best sights of Boston. If you are an avid walker, good sneakers will help you enjoy some of the more pleasant sights along the Charles River or the Commonwealth Avenue mall (see our guide to Outdoor Fun).

Entertainment Deals

The Boston City Pass provides great savings at six popular Boston attractions. Summer 2004 rates are $36.75 (adults) and $25.50 (children 3-17). The pass is good for nine days after the first use. Purchase your pass online, at any of the six locations included:

• Museum of Science
• New England Aquarium
• Skywalk Observatory
• Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
• Harvard Museum of Natural History
• John F. Kennedy Library & Museum

Once in Boston, check with your hotel concierge, as they may have some available.

Similarly, the Harvard Hot Ticket provides discount access to six of the Harvard museums. Purchase your ticket at any of the starred locations covered by the ticket.

• Arthur M. Sackler Museum*
• Busch-Reisinger Museum*
• Fogg Art Museum*
• Harvard Museum of Natural History*
• Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology*
• Semitic Museum (always free, no ticket sales)

Finally, BOSTIX offers 1/2 price same day tickets for many attractions and shows. Half price tickets go on sale at 11 a.m. Please note that BosTix accepts cash only for all 1/2 price tickets. The Copley Square location (T: Copley, Green line) is only a few blocks away from the Convention Center. A second location is in Faneuil Hall (T: Government Center, Green line). Look for the small, round kiosk shaped buildings.

Hours: Copley Square: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm;
Faneuil Hall: Tues-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm CLOSED MONDAYS

Hot Tickets/Book Ahead

If you plan to vacation in Boston after the Annual Meeting, the Lion King starts its Boston shows on July 16 as part of the Broadway in Boston series.

The Boston Red Sox will be playing two three-game series close to the Annual Meeting dates (Oakland A's, July 6-8 and Texas Rangers, July 9-11). Many of the games are standing room only, but single tickets may still be available.

The Top of the Hub restaurant offers breathtaking views of the city. It often books months in advance for summer dining. Read the entry in the Restaurant Guide for more information.