What To Do Around Harvard University When You’re Broke AF

We all get bored, it’s an inevitable problem for humans. Being bored and broke is an even bigger problem, especially for us Harvard students, but it won’t be an issue anymore! Here’s a bunch of free stuff to do when you’re totally bored but totally broke.

1. Take a walk on Boston’s historic freedom trail.

With stops like The Old South Meeting House, the spot of the infamous Tea Party, Paul Revere’s house, and the Granary Burying Ground your inner historian is sure to be in awe on the Freedom Trail. The visitor’s center in Boston Common has free maps to help you navigate your way.

2. Take a guided tour.

If you prefer a guided tour, the Black Heritage Tour in Beacon Hill is for you. Just be sure to call them a reserve a spot.

3. Enjoy a free movie night.

If you’re here from Mid-June until August, you can watch a free movie at the Hatch Shell by the Charles River. Not only are the movies free, but you can even bring your own food. Sit down on a blanket, eat some sandwiches and watch a movie under the stars.

4. The Boston Common

Take a cue from Ted and his best friend, John Bennet and take a stroll in beautiful Boston Common. If you have an extra $4, take a ride on the relaxing swan boats. It sounds corny, but it’s a rite of passage around here.

5. Revere Beach

No matter the weather, the beach is a great place to go. Nearby Revere beach is the first public beach in the United States. Although the roller coaster is no longer there, the beach is still a beautiful place to go. There’s ice cream and pizza on the boardwalk, and there’s always an abundance of wildlife there. The beach also has an extensive sea glass selection, if you’re willing to go digging.

6. The local library

Go to the local library! There’s also lots of fun and free programs, from workshops to book clubs to free museum passes. Plus the Boston Public Library has some of the most beautiful architecture in the country.

7. Enjoy an historic walk

Take a stroll down Acorn Street in Boston. It’s free and you can take pictures of the beautiful and historic buildings.

8. Check out the Skywalk Observatory.

This is not free, however students do get a $4.00 discount off of the original $20.00. It is totally worth it, the view is amazing. Plus, the ticket includes entrance to the museum, theater and the audio tour!

9. See a Shakespeare show

If you’re into Shakespeare, you can catch some Shakespeare on the Common shows! It’s 100% free and a great way to spend an otherwise boring afternoon.

10. Visit the macabre Warren Anatomical Museum

If you’re interested in it, check out Harvard’s Warren Anatomical Museum. It’s a bit morbid and not for the faint of heart, but it’s totally worth a look.