Don’t get me wrong, Boston is amazing and wonderful and full of all the great things that make us all love living here. Living in the city makes life exciting all the time. That being said, sometimes we all need a little break from the craziness. When the sweet sounds of Storrow Drive start to become more like a lullaby than noisy cars, it’s time to find some space away from the city to regroup and think. Personally, one of my favorite things about Boston is that it’s a city with so much nature all around. Here are just a few of my favorite spots near campus:
1. The Esplanade. Probably one of the easiest spots near campus. I love walking just past campus and finding a nice spot near the water to do some work. The esplanade stretches along the Charles for a several miles, which also makes it the perfect spot to go running with a great view!
2. Boston Common/Public Gardens. The Common definitely isn’t always quiet, but it’s a great spot to picnic with friends and hang out. Easily accessible by the Boyleston and Park St. T stops, but also a nice walk on a good day!
3. Mason Square Park. Step just south of campus into Brookline, and you’ll find yourself in a beautiful alternate suburban world. One small beautiful park to visit is the Mason Square Park, located a few steps down Essex St. (turn south at 808 Gallery).
4. Emerald Necklace parks. The Emerald Necklace is a really cool long string of parks and greenway that runs from Park Drive in South Campus all the way into Brookline. With over 1,000 acres to explore and fun events held at different locations along the parks, the Emerald Necklace never gets boring!
I also want to note that for those up for bigger trips, Cape Cod, New Hampshire, and Maine also have lots of fun parks and hiking trails that are often accessible by bus or train! Especially as we get into New England’s most beautiful season, spend some quality time with the outdoors before we snowed in all over again.
