Making the Most of Autumn
Posted September 17, 2013 by Carolyn Lucas
I am originally from the Midwest and moved out to Boston for the graduate opportunities out here. One of the best things about Boston is that there is so much to do, and with autumn rolling around I can’t think of a better time to explore some history the Boston area has to offer! These recommendations aren’t the “traditional” places to visit, and are often overlooked. For us Bostonians, however, they provide a wonderful opportunity to explore without tourists!
Walden Pond
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walden_Pond
Long known for the place where Ralph Waldo Emerson owned land that Henry David Thoreau lived on for two years while writing Walden, Walden Pond is separately a beautiful location that is only made more breathtaking by the changing of the trees. If you’re interested in the movement of transcendentalism, or even just want a peaceful place to ponder your navel, Walden Pond is a great place for you. The downside is that it’s difficult to get to if you don’t have a car – it’s in Concord, Mass – but if you do, it’s worth a visit for sure.
And in that vein, the Concord Museum and the house of Ralph Waldo Emerson
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concord_Museum
Includes the “one if by land, two if by sea” lantern, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s study including his desk and chair, and the world’s largest collection of Thoreau possessions. For students, it’s a steal with an admission price of $8.
USS Constitution
http://www.history.navy.mil/ussconstitution/index.html
A good friend of mine had her archives internship here and couldn’t speak highly enough of it. In addition to being historic and exquisitely preserved, there is an amazing archives/museum that speaks not only to the ship, but to the entire time period as well. And – it’s free!
McGreevy’s – America’s First Sports Bar
http://www.mcgreevysboston.com/
If you’re interested in going somewhere historic but don’t want to get bogged down in a metaphysical crisis, consider going to McGreevy’s, America’s first sports bar! Established in 1894, the bar has undergone name and menu changes, but has overall remained the same. You can bask in the history of the Red Sox and down a pint of beer as you watch the game and consider the 110-year-old history of the establishment. Cheers!
I will be looking to make a Part II of this list after I explore more around the city and the surrounding areas. Even if you don’t get to go to these places in particular, make sure you make the most of autumn – in my opinion it’s the most beautiful season. So have a pumpkin spice latte for me and enjoy the leaves changing!