Life in Boston
As the largest city in New England and one of the most distinctive metropolitan areas in the world, Boston glories in its traditions and bursts with modern vitality. Home to more than 60 colleges and universities, the “Hub”—as the city is often called—is a thriving intellectual and cultural center that maintains a small-town feel through its diverse and charming neighborhoods.
Boston’s cobble-stoned streets and historic landmarks still evoke the city’s early American Colonial and Revolutionary War history. But Boston is a city where historic treasures intermingle with modern technology. Bostonians take as much pride in their busy financial and business communities, world-class medical care facilities, and abundance of research and technological centers as they do in their rich history. There’s something for everyone here—the challenge is deciding where to begin exploring all this splendid city has to offer.
Things to do in Boston
- Follow in the footsteps of American patriots and visit all of the historic sites on the well-traveled Freedom Trail.
- Get to the New England Aquarium to see the exhibits or go for a whale watch
- Explore some of our many wonderful shopping centers, such as Newbury Street and at the Prudential Center.
- Take in any number of Boston’s arts performances at venues such as TD Garden or the Citizens Bank Opera House
- Spend an afternoon exploring one of Boston’s excellent museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts (as a BU student your admission is free!) or the Museum of Science.
- Stroll through the the Boston Public Garden and visit the setting for Robert McCloskey’s award-winning children’s book Make Way for Ducklings.
Boston and the surrounding areas are also home to numerous championship-winning sports teams, including the Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins, and Celtics, as well as our own Boston University Terriers!
Given the abundance of educational opportunities, industry, culture, and recreation that Boston offers, it’s not surprising that so many students come here from all over the world to study and work—and often stay long after graduation. Boston is truly a place like no other, and Boston University is proud to share in the city’s magnificent heritage.
Don’t forget to visit BU Today for information on the ever-changing entertaining and educational experiences BU and Boston have to offer!