Whether you have three years or three months left as a student in Boston, close those textbooks for a day and check out these must-see spots around the city.
1. Bodega
This Boston sneaker shop carries some of the most unique pairs and killer brands from Yeezy to Nike, but that’s not the only reason why you should stop by. Bodega has cleverly hidden the entrance to their shop inside of a mock bodega convenience store. From the outside you’ll think you’re walking into a local mom-and-pop shop, but once you get inside and see the graffiti covered walls and stylish staff you’ll know this isn’t your run-of-the-mill convenience store. In fact, to get to enter the shoe store itself, you have to use their secret entrance (a Snapple Vending machine that slides open to let customers in). Bodega is definitely a must-visit in Boston for anyone looking for their next pair of designer kicks or just their next great adventure.
2. The Mapparium
Boston’s Mapparium, located inside Mary Baker Eddy Library, is a one-of-a-kind experience you’ll never forget. Once you purchase tickets (with your student discount, of course), you’ll be led inside the the large stained-glass room. Every square inch of the space uses the colorful glass to create light-up images of the entire globe and features music and voiceovers of famous historical figures. The coolest part? Because of the room’s unique design, you and your friends can have a conversation with each other from opposite sides of the room without raising your voice above a whisper.
3. Mike’s Pastry
Mike’s is best known for two things: cannoli and lines so long they loop around the corner. This North End bakery is one of Boston’s best eateries for anyone who loves Italian and American pastries from cannoli and gelato to lobster tails and chocolate chip cookies.
4. Uni Sashimi Bar
Because when you’ve had a some drinks on a Friday night and crave a midnight snack, Uni will serve you a fresh bowl of ramen for just $10 up to 2am.
This “anarchist” establishment is a safe-haven for rare, politically extreme book-lovers, activists, and supporters of various progressive movements. The bookstore (and home of “Radical Movie Nights” every Wednesday evening) is run by a group of volunteers due to it’s “no bosses, no pay” philosophy. Keep an open mind when visiting because, while Lucy Parsons Center might not be for everyone, you might just find yourself picking up a copy of The Second Sex.
While every inch of the walls may not be covered in priceless works of century-old art like a typical museum, the Isabella Stewart Gardner’s main attraction lies within the unique architecture and stunning indoor courtyard. The ISGM is the perfect place to explore with a friend, eat your lunch with a view, or just grabbing some much-needed alone time with a good book and a great backdrop.
Anyone who’s spent more than a few hours in Boston is sure to know the Charles River. Thousands of people around the city love this picturesque spot to ride their bikes around, kayaking with friends, and host picnics around. What most people don’t know, however, is that you can also get an authentic Italian experience as well. Gondola rides are offered to parties of any size between 2:00pm and 10:00pm so grab a date, a friend, or a good book and get ready to see Boston like never before.
You might have to dig into your designated textbook fund to be able to cover the tab here but it’ll be worth the experience of eating your dinner with 360 degree views of all of Boston.
It’s easy to think of aquariums as glorified fish tanks designated for elementary school field trips but the New England Aquarium is fast to prove naysayers wrong. With IMAX theaters visible from space, floor-to-ceiling fish tanks, and special offers to get inside certain tanks and spend your afternoon feeding seals, the New England Aquarium is one of the best places to spend your afternoon.
While Boston may not seem as exciting or vibrant as some other cities, it’s packed to the brim with exciting and unique attractions. The next time you have a free afternoon, check out one of these amazing options.