Wellesley College Reopens To Public; Shares Rules For Visitors

WELLESLEY, MA — Community members can once again take a walk around Wellesley College's campus grounds and along Lake Waban, as the campus' outdoor property has reopened to visitors as of today.

The paths along Lake Waban are now open, officials said, apart from the portion on the Hunnewell Estate — the family has told the school that they won't reopen their portion of the lake path to the public.

"This closed section extends from the closed gate behind the President's house and along the southern shoreline to the closed gate at Pond Road," officials said. "As a result, visitors will not be able to complete a loop of the lake and should adjust their walking plans accordingly."

If visitors bring dogs, the college requires that they be leashed at all times.

Visitors may only park in the Distribution Center Lot #2, officials said. The school recommends visitors walk to campus if possible, as parking is limited and availability may depend on whether games, events and other activities are taking place on campus.

Cars without parking stickers that are parked in places such as Cheever House by the Sudbury Aqueduct, Waban House, French House, the Wellesley College Club overflow lot, or the Nehoiden Golf Course along Dover Road may be subject to ticketing or towing by the college or the town, officials said, as will cars parked along Rte. 16 and Rte. 125.

Additionally, there is no public access to campus buildings or restrooms, and building access is limited to members of the Wellesley College community and registered visitors and guests — all of whom must complete a visitor registration form prior to coming to campus, officials said.

Athletics facilities, too, will remain closed to the public, though spectators are permitted for outdoor games.

"We are thankful that the public health situation has improved so that we can once again share our beautiful campus with local residents," officials said. "As the pandemic continues, we will make sure to communicate to the Town of Wellesley and others if the public health situation requires us to shift our policies and protocols."

A full list of public access rules and regulations can be found here.