Back to School in Chestnut Hill: Things to Do Near Boston College This September
The first few weeks of the semester are all about getting back into the rhythm of college life. New classes, catching up with friends, exploring your new schedule, and figuring out how to make the most of your time outside the classroom.
Luckily for Boston College students, there’s plenty to do right around campus. Boston College is located in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Newton, Massachusetts, putting students within easy reach of parks, restaurants, shops, coffee spots, and plenty of places to unwind.
If you’re looking for things to do near Boston College, here are a few ways to spend your September exploring Chestnut Hill and Newton, MA.
1. Grab a Scoop at New City Microcreamery
Let’s start with the most important study break: ice cream.
Located at 19 Commonwealth Ave. in Chestnut Hill, just steps from Boston College, New City Microcreamery is an easy stop when you need a break from class, a post-study treat, or something sweet to celebrate making it through the first week of the semester.
New City Microcreamery specializes in small-batch, handcrafted ice cream made in-house with high-quality ingredients and creative flavors. Grab a scoop in a cup or cone, try a shake or sundae, and make it part of your new semester routine.
Searching for ice cream in Chestnut Hill MA? You don’t have to go far from campus.
2. Take a Walk Around Chestnut Hill Reservoir
Need to get out of the library for a little while? Head to the Chestnut Hill Reservoir.
The paved path around the reservoir is about 1.5 miles and is a popular spot for walking, jogging, biking, or simply getting some fresh air.
It’s an easy way to clear your head between classes or spend an afternoon with friends without having to plan an entire day around it.
For students searching for outdoor activities near Boston College or things to do in Chestnut Hill MA, the reservoir is an easy local favorite.
3. Explore Hammond Pond Reservation
If you want to get a little farther from campus and into nature, check out Hammond Pond Reservation in Newton.
The reservation features wooded trails, interesting rock formations, and opportunities for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
September is an especially nice time to explore the outdoors around Newton before the colder months arrive. Grab a few friends, put on some comfortable shoes, and spend an afternoon exploring one of the area's local green spaces.
It’s a great option when you're searching for things to do in Newton MA that don't involve spending money.
4. Explore the Shops and Restaurants Around Chestnut Hill
One of the best parts of being a student in Chestnut Hill is having plenty of places to grab food, coffee, and a quick break from campus life.
Take a walk along Commonwealth Avenue and explore the restaurants, cafés, and shops around the neighborhood. Whether you're looking for a quick bite between classes, somewhere to meet friends, or a new place to add to your rotation, exploring the local spots is one of the easiest ways to get to know the area.
For students looking up restaurants near Boston College, places to eat near Boston College, or Chestnut Hill restaurants, there are plenty of options just beyond campus.
5. Make a Day of Exploring Newton
Chestnut Hill is just one part of Newton. When you have a little more time to explore, venture beyond campus and see what else the city has to offer.
From parks and walking trails to restaurants, cafés, shops, and neighborhood destinations, Newton gives Boston College students plenty of ways to get off campus without going all the way into Boston.
Looking for fun things to do in Newton MA? Pick a neighborhood, grab a friend, and spend an afternoon exploring somewhere you haven't been before.
6. Take Advantage of September in Boston
Of course, one of the biggest perks of going to Boston College is having Boston right outside your door.
Once you've explored your neighborhood, hop on public transportation and spend a day exploring Boston. Catch a game, visit a museum, walk through a new neighborhood, or meet up with friends downtown.
But you don't always have to go into the city to have something to do. Some of the best college memories happen during the random Tuesday afternoons, quick walks after class, and spontaneous stops for food with friends.
Make Chestnut Hill Your Own
The beginning of a new semester is the perfect time to explore beyond your usual campus routine. Find a favorite coffee shop. Discover a new restaurant. Walk around the reservoir. Explore Newton. And, of course, find your go-to ice cream spot near Boston College.
When you're looking for things to do near Boston College, you don't have to go far.
Start with a scoop at New City Microcreamery, then see where the afternoon takes you.
Welcome back, Eagles. Here's to another great semester in Chestnut Hill.