By Jasmine Gonzalez
Boston is wonderfully diverse, full of culture, history and plenty of “20 somethings” roaming the city in search of a good time this summer. Yet many of them, while having patiently awaited the arrival of warm weather, are suddenly stuck as to what to do now that summer is finally here.
When it comes to favorite summer pastimes the saying “the best things in life are free,” couldn’t be truer for some NU students — and not just because they may be on a slim budget.
Dan Gormon, a sophomore finance major, said the best thing to do in the summer is to just enjoy the outdoors.
“There’s always a lot of stuff going on outside,” he said.
Walking a short distance from school to spend time at the Fens has proven to be a fun time.
“I think it’s cool to hang out there because there are always people outside, playing basketball, tanning and just doing different activities,” he said.
Maria Dimardio, a middler pre-med major, agreed that taking in the outdoors is the way to go.
“I really enjoy just walking around, to places like downtown or Quincy Market,” said the Philadelphia native. “I think it’s definitely one of the prettiest cities to be in during the summer.”
For those sharing this affinity for the outdoors there are plenty of other places to enjoy in and around Boston. The paths along the Charles River in Cambridge are popular among runners, bikers and in-line skaters. Just a short ride on the T will take you to the waterfront where you can take a stroll, grab a bite to eat or partake in one of the many attractions, like going on a whale watch.
When it’s time to take a quick break from the heat, head over to J.P. Licks for some traditional and not-so traditional ice-cream.
Mike Neal, one of the managers of the J.P. Licks in Jamaica Plain, said the Newbury Street location, along with the one on Centre Street in Jamaica Plain are their most popular shops.
The ice-cream is homemade and “it’s done right here, in J.P.,” he said.
But Neal maintains that there are more reasons to go there than for just ice-cream.
One of the things that make J.P. Licks unique, he says “is the great atmosphere and friendly employees.”
This local ice-cream parlor draws in a mixed crowd from families to students, offers over 36 flavors and they’re kosher. If you’re a java-junkie with a sweet tooth, J.P. Lick’s Coffee Oreo ice-cream is a popular choice and if you’re a Sox fan, why not try the Cherry Garciaparra on their menu?
Speaking of Garciaparra, summer in Boston wouldn’t be the same for some without catching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. Heading to Landsdowne Street (just minutes away from NU) for a baseball fix can be an entertaining way to spend a summer afternoon.
Joe Messina a sophomore accounting major considers it a favorite pass time.
“I try to catch a game when I can, it’s just fun, people are screaming,” he said. “It’s exciting.”
Take the Green Line a few stops down and you’ll find another similar tourist attraction, the Swan Boats near the Boston Common. There are other events going on at the common, like Shakespeare in the Park. The Commonwealth Shakespeare Company returns to the common this year to present the play, Macbeth. Sara Graham, a senior who dual-majors in English and philosophy, planned on a live viewing.
“I love that there are always free concerts or shows like this going on … I grew up on Lake Michigan, which was nice, but I feel there’s a lot more culture in Boston,” she said.
Macbeth performances began last Friday and will run through August 10, Tuesday-Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. and completely free.
These are just a few perks that come with living in Boston. The summer has reached its half way point, now is the time to enjoy the city before another deep freeze settles in.
