Ways to relax, have fun, and feel connected over the break
Note: If you need support while the Institute is closed, please don’t hesitate to use these resources.
Free or discounted tickets to museums and arts events
Take some time to feed your soul! If you plan ahead a little, MITAC (MIT Activities Committee) and Arts Access offer discounted tickets to concerts, museums, theater performances, ski lift tickets, and more. (They just won’t be open to process new requests during the break.)
Your local librarians are often happy to chat about resources and events near you, too, and you can look for discounted tickets from your local library (such as the Cambridge Public Library or the Boston Public Library).
Other free and low cost resources
Discover a wide range of free and low-cost activities that can help you experience the Boston area and enjoy meaningful downtime without stretching your budget. From restaurants and movies to recreational opportunities and community gatherings, these resources make it easy to have fun on a budget.
Community meals
If you’re looking for food and fellowship, check out these options around the Cambridge area. We recommend you call first to double check the schedule before traveling.
New Year’s Eve happenings
Check out the (free!) First Night Boston events for music and other performances, ice sculptures, a parade, and fireworks! Looking for something closer to you? Check your local events calendar for fun events.
Getting outside with the T
If you want some fresh air (and the New England weather allows), explore these locations accessible by public transit. You can also check out one of the area’s many ice skating rinks, and when snow falls, don’t miss Boston’s best sledding slopes.
Take a tour of Boston’s lights
Let “Jack Frost” nip your nose while you explore festive lights around Boston.
MIT Libraries
Want to keep it chill, but still get out of your living space? Barker, Dewey, Hayden, and Rotch Libraries will all have 24/7 study spaces open to the MIT community throughout Winter Break!
- Barker, Dewey, Hayden’s second-floor reading room, and Rotch offer quiet, independent study spaces.
- The first floor of Hayden is dedicated to collaborative work and features eight bookable group rooms via mycard.mit.edu.
- Hayden also has vending machines and a microwave for students to use.
- See more about the Libraries winter break schedule.
15+ more ideas from DoingWell
Whether you’re looking for restorative afternoon plans, fresh ways to stay active, fun events for your children, Boston recommendations, or more, take a look at DoingWell’s winter break resources page.
