With fall only a few days away and summer’s heat beginning to fade, now is the perfect time to get out and enjoy all that our beautiful city has to offer.  We know it’s not an easy task to say goodbye to those carefree days of backyard BBQs, strolls along the Esplanade, weekends on the Cape, and late nights of patio lounging and pitchers of sangria, but it’s time to face the inevitable: the refreshingly cool breeze of autumn is swiftly approaching.  Here are five great ways to kick those end-of-summer blues while embracing the great outdoors.  Hey, you’ll even burn a calorie or two (or 200)!

1) Go for a Bike Ride

Don’t have a bike of your own? Good thing Hubway has over 60 stations throughout Boston and Cambridge! Whether you gather a crew to ride around the Boston Common or set out on a solo mission to your favorite reading spot, biking is sure-fire way to get a low-impact exercise while enjoying the sites and sounds of the city.

For a list of local bike paths, visit www.massbike.org

2) Apple Picking

‘Tis the season for fresh, locally harvested produce and nothing says autumn quite like a deliciously crunchy, handpicked apple.  Hop on the commuter rail and head to Belkin Family Lookout Farm for some quintessential fall fun at one the country’s oldest farms.  You’ll be happy to know that some good ole apple picking burns about 220 calories an hour!

Visit www.Mass.gov for more pick-you-own farms

3) Take a Hike

What better way to transition your mind and body into the new season than by getting in touch with nature AND working up a sweat? Put down the smartphone, step away from your laptop, and escape the stresses of city life.  Our friends at Harvest Co-Op created a Boston hiking guide to help you navigate through the numerous trails in the area that are worth checking out.  Remember to pack plenty of water and some healthy snacks like almonds or dried fruit!

4) Paddle Down the Charles River

Take in our city’s killer skyline while kayaking or canoeing down the Charles!  With rentals as cheap as 10 bucks for a one-way trip from Kendall Square to Allston, a relaxing ride down the river is a cheap way to get your fitness fix while soaking in some rays.

Check out www.paddleboston.com for more info

5) Visit the Arboretum

If you haven’t paid a visit to this hidden gem nestled in Jamaica Plains, it’s time for you to see what this urban oasis is all about.  Boasting over 265 acres of luscious greenery , The Arnold Arboretum is the ideal destination for a day of hiking, biking, or a free guided tour.  It’s conveniently located right off the Orange Line and is the perfect spot to have a picnic and enjoy the fall foliage.

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