Neighborhoods for Students in Boston

Cambridge

Technically, its own city, Cambridge is an iconic area near Boston that is home to Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The town has a number of museums, mostly affiliated with either of the universities, as well as a lively music scene, an impressive art culture, and excellent restaurants. The Charles River is a defining feature of Cambridge. There are also a number of notable city squares as well as several distinct neighborhoods within Cambridge. While nightlife might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Cambridge, there are actually some great clubs and bars where you can grab a drink and party with the Ivy Leaguers.

Fenway-Kenmore

Fenway-Kenmore is most famous as the location of Fenway Park, home to the Red Sox. Also in the neighborhood is the Museum of Fine Arts and Symphony Hall. Head to Landsowne Street for the best nightlife. This is where you'll find the most clubs and bars. Right around the ballpark is a beautiful green space, Back Bay Fens. The area also has a number of bars and restaurants that cater mostly to baseball fans. This is a lively neighborhood and there always seems to be something going on.

Back Bay

Back Bay is a scenic neighborhood in Boston that is famous for its charming apartments and classic Boston style. Wander down Commonwealth Avenue to take in these picturesque scenes, or you can enjoy high end shopping along Newbury Street. The area is popular with the wealthy, who live in Victorian style homes in this quintessential Boston setting.

Mission Hill

Mission Hill is one of the more diverse areas in Boston. It houses a mix of students and young families, many employed at the nearby Longwood Medical Area. The Mission Church is a notable architectural landmark in the neighborhood, as are the brick row houses and triple-decker homes.

Allston

Allston is a popular hangout spot for students in Boston. Many students live in the area, but even those that don't often head here to party with friends. The area is close to a number of Boston colleges and universities so the student population is strong, but in recent years it's also started to attract more young professionals and immigrants. Head to Harvard Avenue between Gardner Street and Commonwealth Avenue to explore the city's unofficial Koreatown. The area has a number of great Korean barbeque restaurants as well as bubble tea shops.

Brighton

Located right by the Allston neighborhood, Brighton sits along the Charles River and has a number of shops along Washington Street. It's a quieter neighborhood that has a mix of young professionals, young families, and students. Boston College is in the neighborhood at the end of the Green B line along the subway.

Jamaica Plain

Jamaica Plain, often called "JP", is a diverse neighborhood with a number of local businesses and a large amount of green space. Head to Jamaica Pond to take a relaxing walk. This is also a very active neighborhood with a number of great festivals and outdoor concerts. This neighborhood really comes to life during the warmer seasons when the festivals and street fairs are common.