Moving to Boston for college can be an intimidating, new experience for many first-years. It can even become overwhelming to try to find things to do simply because you just might not know where to start. Here are 5 things that every first-year here at Simmons should try to plan to do this semester.
5. The Museum of Fine Arts
Lucky for us, every Simmons student receives free admission to the Museum of Fine Arts throughout the entire school year. Less than a 10 minute walk from academic campus, the MFA is a great place to visit at any time during the year. Exhibits change, too–so you’ll always be seeing something new, no matter how many times you visit. All you have to do is bring your student ID with you when you pay a visit, and you’re good to go!
4. The Boston Public Library
Sometimes, you just need a change of scenery for those long study hours. Instead of spending the seventh day in a row studying in the same space, try and change it up and visit the Boston Public Library in Copley Square. Even if you’re not studying, this historic library is a great place to check off your visit list. It’s free to enter, and there are even free tours that run daily.
3. Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Historic and a very popular area of Boston, the Faneuil Hall Marketplace holds plenty of attractions for any tourist or someone who’s new to the city to see. With Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, and tons of shops and food options for you to check out, there’s always something new to try or see. As a bonus, in the late fall and winter months, the marketplace holds its tree lightings in the weeks leading up to the holidays which is always a must-see.
2. Fenway Park
It’s no joke that Fenway Park is America’s Most Beloved Ballpark. In 2012, Fenway was added to the United States National Register of Historic Places. For a pretty big Red Sox fan like myself, our neighborhood has been a dream for me. However, you don’t have to be a fan to enjoy the park and its historic values–Fenway offers tours throughout the year of the park, so you can get the experience without having to catch a game at all. However, as a college student you are able to get discounted, $9 tickets to select games throughout the season through the MLB Ballpark App. You can find more information about the app here, and be sure to sign up for those Student 9’s!
1. The Boston Common & The Public Garden
In the center of the city, the Boston Common and the Public Garden are must-sees. During the warmer seasons, you can find the swan boats at the Public Garden that are considered a cultural icon of the city, whereas in the winter months, Frog Pond inside the Boston Common is frozen over and is a popular ice-skating location for everyone, making these two parks a great place to visit year-round. Even if you’re not up for an activity, these two parks are wonderful places to just pass through at any time throughout the year.
These locations are a great start for any first-year moving to Boston, and what makes them great is that they open doors for more activities as you explore the city on your own. I hope you find these activities as fun and enjoyable as I do!