Beat The Cold: Places In Boston Worth The Bad Weather

You have to get outside more!

by Josephine Hale

My experience living in Boston while at university has been amazing so far. There is so much to do… when the weather is decent! Unfortunately, our experience is shaped by the fact that it is either raining, windy, snowing, or just terminally cold for 75% of the year. Leaving campus already feels like a hassle, and the weather makes it more difficult.

But when I think about it, I could be stuck in a college town in the middle of nowhere. We must make the most of what we have access to, if not for our poor college-town brothers and sisters, then for the sake of our collective mental health. Or Instagram. It can be for both.

So keep reading to see my tried and true spots worth visiting during these turbulent times (when it's below 60°F/15°C).

Ice Skating at the Boston Common

I am partial to the Common during winter because they set up an outdoor skating rink at Frog Pond. As someone who semi-professionally figure-skated for many years as a child but has since fallen off, I think it is the perfect place to flex on whoever I take there. For inexperienced skaters, fear not because they have those little penguin sleds for you to hold onto. The ice is resurfaced regularly, and skates are also available for rent. They even have a snack bar, and the entrance ticket/skate rental fees are very reasonable!

Boston Museum of Science

People in our age group heavily sleep on the Boston Museum of Science. It is one of the main places I remember liking when I first visited Boston as a child. Even as an adult, it is fun seeing all the light shows and sensory-based exhibits. They are currently hosting some cool interactive AI-based exhibits. They might even have one of those space capsule simulator rides, too. It is located relatively close to campus and is the perfect spot for a date or to go with friends.

Sledding at Amory Park

This activity is obviously for when there is ample snow on the ground. I typically stay inside during snow days, but will come out specifically to sled. Located between Commonwealth Avenue and Beacon Street, the park is optimal for students who don't want to travel far to build a ski jump. You can even drop by Target to pick up a sled. It is a very popular spot for locals as well, so make sure you don't accidentally harm yourself or any children on your way down the hill.

Coolidge Corner Theater

Preserved in its original Art Deco style from the 30s, Coolidge Corner Theater is a cute local spot to see a movie. Its location in the center of Brookline makes it optimal due to the plethora of nearby dining and entertainment options. They offer various films to watch, from new blockbuster hits and vintage classics to curated independent films from around the world. It's the perfect place to go with a date, your friends, your parents, literally whoever.

In conclusion, there is much to do in Boston, regardless of the weather. The first step to enjoying everything the city offers is to take that first step out the door!