PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Situated just across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge is home to Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Thanks to both cities’ world-class educational institutions, many people refer to Boston and Cambridge as the Athens of America. Together, the two cities are also, arguably, the most European of American cities in that they are walkable, full of cafes, and low brick buildings.

The area’s main mode of transportation between and within the two cities is the subway (which was the first built in America). The subway is part of the MBTA (formerly, the Massachusetts Transportation Authority or M.T.A.), and is referred to as the “T” by locals. It was immortalized by the well-known protest song “M.T.A.” Written in 1949 by Jackie Steiner and Bess Hawes, and made famous by the Kingston Trio, the song tells the story about a man named Charlie who is doomed to ride the M.T.A. for the rest of his life. Hence, the tickets to ride the “T” are called “Charlie Cards.” They are available at vending machines located within the subway stations. For more information and to obtain a bus, subway, commuter rail or boat schedule and map, please visit (here).

Also worth noting, New York City is approximately 4 ½ hours by bus from Boston. Buses leave very frequently and fares can be as low as $20/each way. Many bus lines run between Boston and NYC, including the (Peter Pan Bus Lines) and (Flix Bus). The train (Amtrak) also is available to New York (and Washington D.C.). It leaves from South Station and Back Bay Station. The train, however, is considerably more expensive than the bus, but also much more relaxing and scenic. Significantly reduced fares are available if you book at least one month in advance.

Other things to note:

• Neither Cambridge or Boston is a late-night city: The subway stops running around 12:30 am.
• Typically restaurant kitchens close at 9 pm during the week; 10 pm on the weekends. Bars, typically, close at 1 am.

Remember: Going out to an evening event or for a meal with a new person from the Conference is a great way to network. Several restaurants, bars and cafés, are located not too far from the Foundry.