Swing time in Allston

Allston residents will soon be able to practice their sports swings, as batting cages and a mini-golf course open this Saturday (June 19) at 168 Western Ave., in a former neighborhood garage.

The new Harvard Allston Field and Fairway will offer a fun, family-friendly neighborhood recreation option for the summer and fall. Residents can enjoy two batting cages, two golf-swing cages, and an outdoor 18-hole mini-golf course that features a windmill, a traffic light, and well-designed holes to challenge players of all ages. The building’s lounge will be used as a game room. All recreation activities are free and will be open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

The site was host to a temporary ice skating rink last winter.  The new use is part of Harvard’s ongoing commitment to strengthen the active stewardship of its properties and improve community vitality in Allston.

“Given the success of the ice rink, we wanted to host another community-friendly attraction, as we continue our search for a long-term tenant for this property,” said Katie Lapp, Harvard’s executive vice president. “The Field and Fairway is yet another example of how Harvard is constantly looking for ways to benefit its communities.”

The baseball and golf equipment for the Field and Fairway are provided by Harvard University Athletics. The new facility creates an opportunity for aspiring child athletes, community members, and Harvard athletes alike to have fun while honing their baseball and golf skills.

Allston residents, Harvard and local officials will celebrate the facility’s opening on Friday (June 18) from 5 to 8 p.m.  There will be a raffle and welcoming remarks at 6 p.m.

The public hours begin Saturday, on the following schedule: Fridays from 3 to 8 p.m.; Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.