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Full Itinerary
Extras
Morning: Sparking Scientific Curiosity
Museum of Science
(Image source: Museum of Science, Massachusetts entrance view)
Start your day around 9:30 AM – the perfect time to arrive as the morning crowds haven't yet peaked.
Note: Don’t forget your breakfast before leaving the campus, because no trip is fun with an empty stomach.
Recommended Travel route: Walk about 4 minutes Towards the Museum of Fine Arts and take the green line MBTA to Science Park/West End Station. Walk 5 minutes from there to reach the Museum of Science.
Get the detailed directions here!
Pro tip: Get a CharlieCard for easier and lower transport costs.
(Image source: Route map from NEU to Museum of Science, MA)
Midday: Stars and Sustenance
(Image source: Inside the Planetarium of Museum of Science, Boston MA)
The Charles Hayden Planetarium is, in my opinion, one of Boston's hidden gems! While the standard astronomy shows are excellent, here's an insider secret: the music shows (like "Dark Side of the Moon") are spectacular.
The Planetarium Experience (11:30 AM)
(Image source: Inside the Museum of Science Planetarium, MA)
Book your tickets first thing when you arrive – they often sell out, especially on weekends!
*To explore more shows and details about Planetarium, click here!
*Get directions inside the Museum here!
Lunch with a View (12:15 PM)
(Image source: Charles River view from Riverview Cafe at Museum of Science, MA)
The Riverview Café might be a museum cafeteria, but don't let that fool you. Not only is the food surprisingly good (try the stir-fry station – they'll customize it to your taste), but the panoramic views of the Charles River make it one of Boston's most unique dining spots.
Cafe Hours: Sunday – Thursday, Saturday: 11:00 am to 3:30 pm
Friday: 11:00 am to 4:30 pm
Starbucks Hours: Daily 7:30 am to 4:30 pm
*Budget tip: Grab a sandwich from their grab-an-go section and enjoy it by the river.
*Get directions to the cafe here!
Afternoon: Lightning Strikes and Butterfly Flights
Power Hour (1:00 PM)
(Image source: Power Hour/ Lightening Show inside Planetarium, MA)
Time your afternoon to catch the Theater of Electricity demonstration – it's electrifying (pun intended!).
The world's largest air-insulated Van de Graaff generator puts on a show that would make Tesla proud. Stand in the back for the best view of the lightning bolts!
Nature's Wonders
(Image source: Butterfly Garden in Museum of Science, MA)
The Butterfly Garden is worth the extra $6 if you've never experienced it!
Here's a tip most visitors miss: Visit between 2:00-3:00 PM when the butterflies are most active. Wear bright colors, and they might even land on you!
Evening: From Science to Innovation
Charles River Stroll (3:00 PM)
(Image source: Charles River view near Longfellow Bridge, MA)
After your museum adventure, take advantage of one of Boston's best-kept secrets: the Esplanade walk from the museum to the Longfellow Bridge. The path takes you past sailing schools and joggers, offering perfect photo opportunities of the Boston and Cambridge skylines.
Recommended route: Walk Northwest from Science Park via Commercial Ave. Get route directions here!
Time Taken: 16 minutes approx.
Kendall Square: Where Science Comes to Life (4:45 PM)
(Image source: MIT spectrum, Kendall Square in Cambridge, MA)
Cross into Cambridge's Kendall Square, where you'll see real-world applications of the science you've just explored. The MIT campus nearby is worth exploring – don't miss the whimsical architecture of the Stata Center, which looks like something from a Dr. Seuss book!
Recommended route: It takes a 12-minute walk via First St and Binney St from the Charles River to reach Kendall Square. Get route directions here!
Returning to the NEU Campus - 5:30 PM
(Image source: Northeastern University, Boston MA Campus)
After a day full of joy, discovery, adventure, and knowledge, it's time to get back safely to your Northeastern University campus!
Recommended route 1: Take an Uber or cab via Starrow Dr to reach Huntington Ave, Northeastern University. Get detailed directions here!
Time Taken: 19 to 20 minutes approx. (Time might reduce or increase in cases of heavy traffic)
Uber/cab fare: $11 - $15
Recommended route 2: Walk for 15 minutes from Kendall Square to Ames St/Main St to take the yellow line MBTA from Sullivan Square St to Ruggles St. Walk for 4 minutes to reach Northeastern University. Get route directions here!
Pro-tip: Skidoo recommends taking route 1 to avoid traffic restrictions and long walks so you can return to your campus hassle-free!
Trip Summary
The Museum of Science isn't just a collection of exhibits – it's a place where science comes alive. While this itinerary guides you through the highlights, don't be afraid to follow your curiosity. Some of the best discoveries happen when you least expect them.
Remember, science is all about asking questions. The staff here are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate – don't hesitate to engage them in conversation. You might just learn something that's not in any guidebook!
Packing Checklist
- Comfortable shoes (you'll be standing and walking a lot)
- Camera (the electricity show is very photogenic)
- Light jacket (the planetarium can get chilly)
- Water bottle (fountains are available throughout)