Boston Travel Guide & Neighborhood Attractions - 3

Cambridge, Massachusetts

The city of Cambridge, just to the north of Boston, was once a rural farming community founded by Puritans in the 1630s. Today it is a diverse, world-renowned center for intellectual pursuits, being home to both Harvard University—the oldest university in the United States—and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Spend a day taking in its various museums and historical site, or if you time it right, catch a lecture, panel, book reading or live music event. 

To get there by public transportation, take the Alewife-bound red line subway from Park Street in Boston. It will take you to MIT, Central Square and Harvard Square.

Harvard Square

At the heart of Cambridge you’ll find bustling Harvard Square. One nickname for Cambridge you might have heard is “Boston’s Left Bank.” Another is “The People’s Republic of Cambridge.” This is due to its liberal leanings and independent character from Boston. Harvard Square is a destination by itself, offering endless people-watching and entertainment, all for free. Check out the Coop bookstore and other independent shops; various pubs, coffeehouses and ethnic restaurants; or the Brattle Theatre, which shows top classic, foreign and indie films.

 

• Harvard Square in Cambridge is a popular place for people to gather.

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Harvard University

Any visit to the square is not complete without wandering around Harvard University. Though you can walk through Harvard Yard any time, I recommend going on a free tour if you can. The student guides are full of information about the history and architecture of the campus and can tell you all about the libraries, museums—the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Fogg Museum and Busch-Reisinger Museum—and famous alum. (The museums are all undergoing a major renovation project that began in 2008 and is expected to last five years. Highlights from each collection are on display at the Sackler.)

Look for the statue of John Harvard, called the “statue of three lies,” which makes for a good story. The statue, sculpted in 1884, is just an idea of what the artist thought he looked like, as there are no known images of Harvard. Also, the school was founded in 1636, not 1638 as it states and, finally, Harvard was not the founder, he was a benefactor. 1350 Massachusetts Ave., tel. 617-495-1573. Tours are offered when school is in session. Call for times. www.harvard.edu