ssuming we haven’t entered the second Ice Age that was foreshadowed in The Day After Tomorrow, spring should be just around the corner. However, as the days get warmer, the BU Beach and COM lawn get more packed making it more difficult than ever to snag a sunny spot. I suggest you do a bit of exploring around Boston and check out these seriously underrated spaces, perfect for lounging on any spring afternoon!
The Fens
It’s surprising how many people are unfamiliar with the Back Bay Fens. Located right behind Fenway along Park Drive, this beautiful outdoor park is gorgeous and rarely crowded. With trees for shade and grass to lounge in, the Fens is also perfect for jogging with a paved pathway and a nice view. Not only is the Fens close to campus (no need to take the T!) it has a beautiful view of the Museum of Fine Arts and a picturesque stream, too!
North End Parks
Everyone loves the North End for its Italian food, but no one knows just how many parks the one-square-mile neighborhood has. Most are small alcoves, paved with brick and a few benches, but some, like Copp’s Hill Terrace, are spacious and beautiful. The Terrace is reminiscent of an enormous balcony that overlooks a baseball field and the waterfront. Visitors can enjoy the boats and the occasional baseball game from the Terrance. Surrounding the Old North Church there are a few small spaces as well. Though they don’t have sprawling views or tons of sunlight, these spaces have enormous historical value and are hauntingly beautiful. They’re very serene if you’re looking for a place to clear your head.
Someday soon spring will arrive in Boston. On that day, when the BU Beach and the Common are too crowded for you to find a place to sit, fear not! One of these five hideouts is sure to be a perfect fit for you.
The Docks on the Esplanade
The Esplanade is no secret to BU students, but how far along the path have you explored? About a quarter mile past the workout station near the Silber Way entrance, toward East Campus, there is a small dock. Though it can be crowded at times, there’s usually plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun and the perfect view of the Boston skyline. This dock is especially fun to lounge on because it bobs up and down with the movement of the water, just don’t forget a towel or blanket!
The Secret Garden (4 Cambridge Center, Kendall Square)
In the heart of Kendall Square in Cambridge, there’s actually a secret rooftop garden that no one knows about – if you can find it. Because of a construction project that’s currently going on, entrance means walking down what would appear to be a back alley off of Broadway into the Cambridge Center parking garage. From there, you can take the elevator to the top floor and viola – you’ve found a beautiful secret hideaway. It’s totally free and open to the public, with an amazing view of Cambridge and a gorgeous garden in the spring. This may be the best spot on the list for studying, since it’s such a secret – talk about quiet.
The Wharf
This spot isn’t so much a secret as it is underrated. The Wharf, right behind Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, is a beautiful spot to sit in the sun and watch the water. There’s always plenty of activity, with boats coming in and out of the ports. Christopher Columbus Park is also close by, where you can find some grass and a small playground. If you like the smell of saltwater and the sun, this is a perfect place to sit and watch the boats go by.