Getting Around Boston
No matter how you travel — by car, bike, bus, train, or a combination — this page outlines your options. For questions or to request a meeting, email [email protected]. Our team is happy to assist with your transportation planning.
MBTA (The “T”)
The MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority), known as “the T,” operates local, commuter, and bus lines throughout Boston and New England.
- MBTA College and University Student Guide to the T
- The MBTA Commuter Rail Guide provides an overview of what to expect.
- The MBTA Trip Planner and fare calculator help you determine which pass you need based on your travel stops.
- Refer to the MBTA Fares Overview to identify the pass that best fits your needs.
- Sign up for MBTA text alerts to receive updates.
MBTA apps include:
- mTicket App: Buy and redeem Commuter Rail tickets and passes, view schedules and service alerts, and quickly contact Customer Support.
- Other helpful apps, such as Transit, ProximiT, and Google Maps, offer trip planning with real-time updates, arrivals, and departures.
Train
- Green Line E Train (MFA Stop and Longwood Medical Stop are closest to the Academic Campus)
- Green Line D Train (Fenway Stop is closest to Residential Campus)
- Orange Line (Ruggles Station is accessible by a short bus or bike ride, a free MASCO shuttle, or a walk from Simmons' academic campus).
Bus
- 8, 19, 47, 65, CT2, etc.
To travel between the academic and residential campuses, use the following bus routes from the Simmons Sports Center to Simmons Library:
- #8 Harbor Point via Ruggles
- #19 Fields Corner via Ruggles
- #47 Broadway via Ruggles
Please note that the CT2 does not go to Ruggles. It travels directly to Huntington Avenue and does not continue to Louis Pasteur Avenue.
Pre-order a discounted MBTA SemesterPass through Simmons
If you use the MBTA regularly, the Semester Pass may offer savings. Order passes before each semester through Student Financial Services (SFS). You will receive an email each semester with ordering instructions. The MBTA Semester Pass is available at an 11% discount and is ideal for frequent riders.
- The deadline for the Fall MBTA Semester Pass is in early August annually.
- The deadline for the Spring MBTA Semester Pass is in early December annually.
- Questions? Email [email protected].
Order your Fall 2026 Semester Pass by July 31 at 11:59 PM
Explore Reduced Fares
The City of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offer several reduced fare programs, including:
- Income-Eligible Reduced Fair Program
- Transportation Access Pass (TAP)
- Senior CharlieCard
A CharlieCard is a reusable, contactless smart card for transportation in the Boston area and Zone 1A. Any rider may use a CharlieCard. Riders enrolled in the MBTA Semester Pass or other reduced fare programs will receive a separate card and do not need an additional CharlieCard.
- Simmons REEF Center – Dix Scholar & Commuter Lounge
- Star Market – 33 Kilmarnock St, Boston, MA 02215 (near Simmons)
- 7-Eleven – 141 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115 (near Simmons)
- Symphony Market – 291 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115 (near Simmons)
- All Boston Public Library branches
- Many MBTA Stations
- Arrive early for the train or bus, as delays are common, especially during rain or snow.
- The Green Line, particularly the D Line, may experience delays, especially during Red Sox home games.
- Maps of the MBTA lines are located at every station and inside each train car/bus.
- Trains and buses can become crowded and warm. Consider bringing a water bottle or an extra mask for comfort.
- If you are carrying a backpack, please remove it to make more space for other riders on crowded trains.
- During winter, crowded vehicles can become warm. Wear layers so you can adjust as needed during your trip.
- Bus routes are often more direct and require fewer transfers, but may take longer during rush hour due to traffic.
The RIDE Paratransit Service
The RIDE Paratransit service offers door-to-door, shared public transportation for individuals who cannot use the subway, bus, or trolley due to temporary or permanent disabilities. The RIDE operates year-round in 58 cities and towns in Greater Boston, with hours similar to the MBTA.
Accessibility on MBTA Buses
Bus drivers can lower the entrance for passengers using mobility devices, such as wheelchairs. Priority seating is available on all public transit vehicles, and elevators are accessible at each station. For more information, visit MBTA Accessibility.
Commute Works: Commuter Benefit Programs
As a MASCO member, Simmons students can access CommuteWorks, a commuter benefits program. For questions or to sign up, email [email protected]. Several CommuteWorks programs are available to Simmons students.
Email [email protected] for general questions or personalized assistance with planning your commute to campus, internships, or jobs.
CommuteFit – Monthly Prizes
If you walk, bike, or run to campus, internships, or jobs, register with GoMassCommute and log your miles to enter the monthly raffle.
Ridesharing – Free Gas
The Carpool Incentive Program offers up to $250 in free gas cards. Register with GoMassCommute to connect with others commuting to the Longwood Medical Area from your area.
Use the MASCO link to receive a discount. Cars are available at all times, making this a convenient option for day trips or off-campus errands. Use the Zipcar app to find nearby vehicles.
MASCO operates several buses to the Longwood Medical Area, with service every 8 to 10 minutes.
- MASCO shuttles are free for students and Simmons employees. Please show your Simmons ID to board, except for the following cases:
- The M2 shuttle requires either a Harvard ID or a ticket ($4 for a single ride).
- The Chestnut Hill shuttle requires a registered parking pass at the Shops at Chestnut Hill parking garage.
- Please visit the MASCO website for the most up-to-date route and schedule information.
Driving to Campus and Parking
Metered parking near Simmons University is extremely limited. Students, faculty, and staff may park in the Simmons University Garage. Pay-as-you-go and semester parking passes are available on the Simmons Parking Garage website.
Biking in Boston
If you have your own bike, outdoor bike racks are available on the Simmons campus.
If you are interested in biking, Bluebikes is the regional public bike share program serving Boston, Cambridge, Everett, Somerville, and Brookline. Boston offers many bike lanes and both manual and e-bike options, with memberships available for various durations.
- Bluebikes Boston: How it works, student discounts, and more
- Bluebikes Income-Eligible Membership Application
- The City of Boston has great new biker programs in the “upcoming events” section of their website.
- Bluebikes frequently offers free and discounted promotions. For updates, follow @ridebluebikes on Instagram.
- Tips for Biking to Work – NPR Life Kit (20-minute podcast with amazing tips to get you started)