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The 13 Best Activities for College Students in Massachusetts!

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College students work hard, so they need their down time. Those attending college in Massachusetts have a wealth of options for enjoying time away from their studies. The following activities afford fun, intrigue, and even some action. A few are even free. Here are 13 great activities for college students in the Bay State.  


Faneuil Hall, Boston, MA

Faneuil Hall affords college students the opportunity to congregate, grab a bite to eat from one of countless food vendors, and to browse in the many shops that line the hall. Many ethnic food options keep the aromas intriguing and the food options unique.

Boston Common, Boston, MA

No matter the season, Boston Common is home to gatherings of college students. Whether they’re tossing a football, throwing a Frisbee, or simply enjoying some down time from their books, it’s the perfect place to have fun with their friends. You’ll even find students on the Common in winter, taking part in harmless snowball fights or snowman making contests.

Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park, Boston, MA

Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is a staple in Massachusetts. Bleacher seats can often be found for as little as $20, and affords a fun way to spend a few hours from April through the early fall. They also have several student ticket offers throughout the season with great discounts. 

Woods Hole Science Aquarium, Woods Hole, MA

As long as you’re not a marine biology major, the Woods Hole Science Aquarium is an excellent way to forget about homework and explore another world. The fact that it’s located on Cape Cod opens up at even greater list of possibilities for ways to spend some down time.

Sam Adams Brewery, Jamaica Plain, MA

Provided they are 21 or older, the Sam Adams Brewery offers tours—replete with a sample—of their brewery in Jamaica Plain. They do ask for a $2 donation, which is given to a local charity, but that’s a small price to pay for an inside view of your favorite local brew.

Dave & Buster’s, Woburn, MA

Even though Dave & Buster’s is another establishment for ages 21 and up (unless accompanies by an adult aged 25 or older), it’s a fun way for college students to enjoy some food, drink a couple of beers and indulge in some fun and hilarious games without feeling like they’re acting like little kids. A visit to Dave & Buster’s is all about exactly that.

Beanpot College Hockey Tournament, Boston, MA

Boston University, Boston College, Harvard, and Northeastern University all have teams that take part in the Beanpot College Hockey Tournament, which an exciting event for college hockey fans. Check the website for details on game dates and tickets! 

St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Boston, MA

College students from all over the state travel to Boston for their annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Students will stake their spot on the parade route many, many hours in advance in order to have a perfect view. Most of those views are in close proximity to many bars, where green beer flows like water.

Boston Marathon, Boston, MA

In April, some of the top runners from all over the world come out to participate in the legendary Boston Marathon. College students pour into the city to share in the excitement.

It at Beantown Adventure Ropes Course, Reading, MA

BeanStalk Adventures Ropes Course features a course for adults as well as one for children, meaning college students can challenge themselves to something that’s so not book-related.

Mugar Omni Theater, Boston, MA

Mugar Omni Theater is home to an IMAX theater featuring some of the most exciting adventure films around—many of which never make their way into traditional theaters. Contact the museum for a full schedule.

Edaville Christmas Festival of Lights, Carver, MA

Edaville Christmas Festival of Lights in Carver is an excellent pre-holiday exhibit, perfect for putting overworked college students in the holiday spirit.

Head of the Charles Regatta, Boston, MA

The Head of the Charles Regatta will take place in October, and is the second largest rowing event in the world. College students will get a bird’s eye view when they line the banks of the Charles River—in both Boston and Cambridge—to watch this incredible event.

The phrase “all work and no play” is rarely used to describe Massachusetts college students. A wealth of activities await them when they need to leave the books behind and find a different way to spend a few hours—or maybe even an entire day. 

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