Looking for winter activities that aren’t just the ones you’re seeing on your feed? Maybe something more affordable? Or Less crowded? It’s a good thing Boston is a big city to explore. From craft festivals to easy-to-walk food tours, this is an easy and organized guide to inspire your holiday excursions.
Why wait in long lines for expensive snacks when you can taste vibrant handmade dishes in Boston’s own Chinatown? From the JFK/UMass Station, take the red-line to Downtown Crossing. Exit the station and walk six minutes to Bao Bao Bakery & Cafe. Grab a hot honey ginger tea and browse the pastries before continuing towards the next stop: Liuyishou Hotpot. Only two minutes away, this spot has a great lunch and dinner selection for everyone. Walk off that delicious meal and for five dollars, download the “Art Walk Map” and view fine art replicas, murals and more throughout Chinatown. End your excursion with some dumplings to-go from Dumpling King, a popular vendor in a small food court, and head back towards UMass Boston!
If you need a place to find holiday gifts, produce and handmade products, check out the Somerville Winters’ Farmers Market, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every Saturday until Apr 11. This market is located at 191 Highland Ave’s “The Armory”. Different local vendors will surprise you every visit, and this is a great place to visit with friends or family. Soap, fresh fruits, vegetables, artwork, snacks, baked goods and more await you.
As an avid holiday light enjoyer, there are plenty of places to check out the decked out houses, holiday exhibits and decorations! Check out the giant Christmas tree in the Boston Common and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. A view that never gets old is the Christopher Columbus Park, a blue arch lighting up the waterfront. Macy’s in Downtown Crossing sets up a bright and colorful holiday display year by year. Window shop or warm up inside! Visit Brimmer Street of “Candy Cane Lane”, known to be the first to start decorating and see the creative lights. All of these are free and festive during the holiday season.
Although popular, you must visit the open ice skating times, easy to access on the UMB Recreation website! In addition to UMass Boston’s free skate times, there are plenty of other ice skating rinks in the Boston area. The Boston Common’s Frog Pond is a family favorite and offers an affordable price to skate outdoors! In addition to these two, The Murphy Memorial Skating Rink offers skating, snacks and drinks for friends and families to spend the day hanging out. 401 Park turns into a spectacular skating rink during the winter season and if you go at the right time… you may get your photo taken by an ice-skating photographer!
Finally, the most comforting place to be in the winter months is in a cozy cafe with a sweet treat. Whether you’re studying or just looking for a warm drink, there are plenty of cafes to check out solo or with loved ones. If you’re looking for a quick spot near campus, you need to visit Sugar Bowl Coffee and grab a warm muffin. For an excellent sandwich you must try Homestead Bakery and Cafe. A book for any reader can be found at the Beacon Hill Books & Cafe, and even better, a present for a parent, friend or mentor.
Wishing you happy holidays from UMass Boston’s Her Campus! We hope this guide will get you out of the house during these chilly months, explore and hopefully help you save a little cash for gifts.