Things To Do
in Cambridge
Cambridge, Massachusetts is a historic center of learning and innovation on the Charles River. Home to Harvard University and MIT, it blends centuries of academia with cutting-edge tech and culture. Its neighborhoods—Harvard Square, Kendall Square, and Inman Square—offer bookstores, street life, and culinary diversity within easy walking distance.
The city is tightly integrated with Boston, sharing museums, sports, and a lively arts scene.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Harvard Yard, where the historic buildings and lush greenery provide a beautiful backdrop for a morning stroll. Enjoy a coffee from one of the local cafes as you soak in the atmosphere of one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Don’t forget to stop by the Harvard Museum of Natural History to explore fascinating exhibits.
Head over to the nearby Harvard Square for lunch at one of its diverse eateries, offering everything from casual bites to gourmet meals. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the square, checking out local shops and bookstores. You can also visit the American Repertory Theater for a matinee performance or a behind-the-scenes tour.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a renowned restaurant in Harvard Square, famed for its culinary offerings. After dinner, consider catching a live music performance at The Sinclair or a theatrical show at the American Repertory Theater. Wrap up your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the square.
Begin your day at the MIT Museum, where you can explore interactive exhibits on science and technology, showcasing the innovative spirit of the institution. Afterward, take a stroll along the Charles River, enjoying the scenic views and fresh morning air. Find a peaceful spot to sit and reflect, or bring a sketchbook to capture the beauty around you.
For lunch, visit the nearby Kendall Square, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and food trucks. Afterward, dive into the world of contemporary art at the MIT List Visual Arts Center, featuring exhibitions from emerging artists. Engage with the installations and take time to appreciate the intersection of art and technology.
Conclude your day with dinner at a trendy restaurant in Kendall Square, where you can taste dishes inspired by global cuisines. After your meal, catch a film at the nearby Kendall Square Cinema, which showcases indie films and documentaries. If time permits, enjoy a night walk along the riverbank, where the city lights reflect off the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $50-90 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $150-250 |
| 🚌Public transit fare (one-way) | $2.75 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class universities and research institutions
- Vibrant neighborhoods with diverse dining and culture
- Walkable and bike-friendly urban layout
- Proximity to Boston with easy access to museums and events
- Rich academic heritage and architecture
- High cost of living and dining
- Crowded in peak university seasons and tourist hotspots
- Limited parking in central areas
- Some traffic congestion on main thoroughfares
- Weather can be challenging in winter
Places to Visit in Cambridge
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic quad framed by historic buildings and the distant Widener Library.
A classic shot capturing Cambridge’s academic atmosphere and grand staircase.
Architectural landmark with a backdrop of the leafy campus grounds.
Waterfront views, boats, and runners with the Boston skyline in the distance.
Iconic river crossing offering panoramic views of the river and cityscape.
Food in Cambridge
Cambridge Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder featuring clams and potatoes; widely available in Cambridge’s seafood spots.
Must-Try!
Succulent lobster meat in a light mayo blend, served in a soft bun; a staple near the waterfront and in casual eateries.
A classic custard-filled cake with chocolate glaze; commonly found at bakeries around Harvard Square.
Fresh local oysters when available; pair with a crisp beer or sparkling wine at seafood spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods in various neighborhoods.
A lively cluster of casual stalls and small restaurants offering diverse street-food and light bites.
Casual spots in Kendall Square with quick bites and international flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite, greet with a smile, and keep to social norms; good manners are appreciated in libraries and classrooms.
Stand in lines patiently; yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and share sidewalks with cyclists respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Cambridge
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping around 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary; round up for smaller services like coffee if receiving standout service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small markets and street vendors; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and often humid; plan for outdoor activities early or late in the day and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures with vibrant fall foliage; ideal for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Cold with occasional snow; dress in layers and be prepared for icy sidewalks.
Mild weather with frequent showers; great time for outdoor exploration and blossoms.
Cambridge at Night
Hiking in Cambridge
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive natural area in Milton with multiple hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
Urban wetland and woodland trails around Fresh Pond in Cambridge.
Historic cemetery with beautiful gardens and winding trails ideal for easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Cambridge by plane.
Main international gateway located about 4-6 miles from central Cambridge; accessible via car, taxi, rideshare, or public transit.
General aviation airport located about 25 miles southwest of Cambridge; primarily for private flights.
Major nearby commercial airport about 60-70 miles north of Cambridge; available for regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large population connected to Harvard, MIT, and nearby universities.
Tech, biotech, and startup scenes contribute a steady influx of professionals.
Residential neighborhoods with schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
A diverse mix of residents and visitors from around the world.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular along the Charles River with university and club teams.
Harvard and MIT teams compete in intercollegiate sports.
Common winter sport in local arenas and college leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cambridge.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cambridge offers abundant vegetarian options; look for vegetable-forward dishes, ask for meat-free substitutions, and check for dairy-free options.