Historic. Cultural. Beautiful. Walkable. Smart. Outdoorsy. These are just a few words we would use to describe Boston.
Boston University is located in the heart of Boston, with our main campus stretching along the Charles River in an urban environment. Our location provides easy access to the city’s activities and amenities just off campus.
REUs can take full advantage of the warm summer weather to explore Boston’s wide variety of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and neighborhoods.
What are some must-see attractions?
Boston is steeped in history. In fact, we have more historical buildings than any other city in America! We can’t possibly list all our favorite places, but here are several to get you started:
- The Boston Common and Public Garden
- The Boston Public Library
- Boston Symphony Orchestra
- Fenway Park
- The Freedom Trail
- The Museum of Fine Arts
- Newbury Street
- The North End, Boston’s Little Italy
- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
- New England Aquarium
- Museum of Science
How do I get around?
REU housing is located in BU’s South Campus – just minutes from BU research labs, the Charles River Esplanade, the Fenway Neighborhood, and numerous public transit options.
Boston’s downtown is compact, making it easy to get around by foot or via public transportation.
- The subway, buses, and trolleys that make up the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) – more commonly known as the T – allow you to travel easily all over the city and suburbs.
- BU also offers a free bus shuttle between the Charles River Campus, Fenway and BU Medical Center Campuses.
- Biking is an increasingly popular way to get around, and our campus stretches along Commonwealth Avenue, home of Boston’s first bike lanes. For information about securing your ride and finding safe routes, visit our Bike Safety page.
How is the weather?
Typical summer weather in Boston is blue skies with warm coastal breezes and temperatures ranging from 60-95 degrees. But Boston’s weather is unpredictable. Temperatures can range from very hot and humid to quite cool. Be sure to pack some warmer clothes and rain gear!