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College Student City Guide: Boston
Boston is home to thousands of students every year. As one of the oldest cities in New England, Boston has many cool things to offer, ensuring that there is something for everyone. From visiting art museums and galleries to trying food from different cultures, there’s always something new to do, see, or eat in the Hub. As college students, it might be hard to stick to a budget, and even though Boston is known for how expensive it is, there are several activities and places to visit that can be fairly affordable–many of them even offer student discounts. With this, I have curated a list of top things to do, places to visit, and new restaurants to try before you graduate to make the best of your time here in Boston!
1. Fenway Park
Fenway has been home to the Boston Red Sox since it opened in 1912. It is filled with Major League Baseball history and public tours are available for everyone who wants to know more about the stadium. Watching a home game at Fenway is one of the best experiences I have had as a college student. The energy that is felt every time the Red Sox score is unbeatable. The Red Sox offer different student discounts, often called "Student 9s", that can get you $9 tickets, and the Boston College Campus Activities Board (CAB) also has activities that involve going to watch a game for a very affordable price.
2. Time Out Market
Located in the 401 Park Drive building, Time Out Market has a variety of food options from the most talked about restaurants in Boston. During the winter, there is an ice-skating rink right outside, so after you finish ice-skating, you could grab a donut from Union Square Donuts, a burger from NU burger, or tacos from Taqueria El Barrio (my favorite tacos in Boston). Time Out has everything you are craving and more–the ambiance is amazing with great music and events.
3. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
If art and nature are things that you love, then the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a great place to visit. This museum has tapestries, paintings, and sculptures from different parts of the world, but mainly from Europe and Asia. It has a big garden with beautiful details, and it is a reconstruction of a 15th century Venetian palace. The artworks seen here range from classical times, all the way to the 20th century. The museum is a great way to know more about the history of art and also get some gorgeous photos! They also offer a student discount, which you can get by showing your Eagle ID at the entrance.
4. North End
The North End or Boston’s Little Italy is one of the most-talked about neighborhoods in Boston. It is filled with restaurants showcasing authentic Italian cuisine. Even though it is one of the smallest neighborhoods in the city, the Italian culture and vibes are felt the moment you enter the North End. If you go there, you have to try the cannoli, a classic Italian dessert, from Mike’s Pastry or the amazing raviolis from Trattoria Il Panino. The iconic Freedom Trail is also part of this neighborhood. In brief, there isn’t a reason for you to not go to this amazing place.
5. Boston Common - Public Garden
Across from Beacon Street in downtown Boston is the Boston Common and Public Garden. There are many fun activities throughout the year that you draw people here regardless of the seasons or weather. It is the perfect spot for a picnic during the summer, ice-skating with friends during the winter, or for simply reading a book while watching the leaves fall during autumn.
6. Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill is located near the Boston Common, and it's considered one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Boston. It is home to vintage boutiques and cute cafés and bakeries, such as Beacon Hill Chocolates, a very popular chocolate shop. One of the highlights of Beacon Hill is Acorn Street, considered one of the most photographed streets in America.
7. Back Bay
Last but not least is Boston’s Back Bay. The Back Bay is home to many popular places like Newbury Street, Copley Square, Prudential Center, and the Boston Public Library. Art galleries, expositions, and boutiques are very prominent in this area. Something that you have to try when you go to the Back Bay are the $1 oysters. These are very popular during the summer months, and one of the most popular places to eat them is the Back Bay Social. This restaurant has a great menu and the happy hour oysters are a must to try!
