Thank you so very much for the recommendations!
@sokoloffWoodmans of Essex offers Fried Clams! I have never seen fried clams in my corner of US. They also offer clam cakes. I am intrigued and will definitely check this one out.
You are correct the ship (Mayflower) is not there at the moment, bummer.
The Boston MFA is open late Wed-Fri, so many things to see. I could spend a couple days there.
Thank you for the heads-up regarding parking: I might just Uber my way to avoid unnecessary frustration.
@westtoeastIsabella Stewart Museum did not have any performances the week I'll be there, but on Thursdays is open until 9PM, so I could visit and see part of the collection.
I liked the idea of taking a ferry, I checked this one:
https://www.bostonharborcruises.com/harbor-cruises/historic-sightseeing-cruise/, they have one that leaves at 5PM. Another "sunset cruise" leaves at 7Pm, but I'm thinking is a lovers/honeymoon type of cruise.
@SeaKayElI looked up The Friendly Toast menu, and found some very local-sounding options like Anadama bread (never heard of before), an option to add-on a bottle of Real Maple Syrup for $2.00 (from NH), and New England Clam Chowdah. I think I'll visit this one for sure. As for the sweets... I'm trying to keep my figure... ;) still I will try to pick some up and impress my new co-workers with my newly acquired good taste in local fare!
Thank you all for your so helpful tips, I am looking forward to this trip. Next time I'll try to book the flight in a way I stay for the weekend as well. SO MUCH to see and do - I just hope I won't fall in love with the area too much: way too expensive for this LCOL gal ;)