Cambridge, Massachusetts, is home to Harvard and MIT, but also many more landmarks in history, art, and nature. Whether you enjoy art, history, or exploring classic New England towns, there’s much to see and do here. This article covers the top 15 things to do in Cambridge, Massachusetts, plus some hidden spots, fun things, and key tips for your visit.

 

Best Things to Do in Cambridge, Massachusetts

 

Explore Harvard’s Campus

As the oldest university in the nation, Harvard’s campus looks like a museum. You can take a solo tour or join a student-led one. This way, you’ll get an in-depth look into the university’s history and hear stories about its graduates and current students.

The famous Harvard Yard, with its statue of John Harvard, is a clear starting point. Also, don’t miss Widener Library, which is a beautiful building and part of the classic fun things to do in Massachusetts.

 

Cruise the Charles River by Boat

No view quite compares to taking a boat cruise on the Charles River, offering good, clear views of both Cambridge and Boston. Enjoy one of several options available. These include relaxed sunset cruises or whatever else you may find interesting.

Through this experience, you can truly appreciate the skyline, feel cool breezes, and enjoy the city from a fresh view, making it one of the best fun things to do in Massachusetts.

 

Enjoy Views from Memorial Drive

Exploring Memorial Drive is another fun thing to do in Massachusetts, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. Memorial Drive closes to cars every Sunday from April to November, thus turning it into a beautiful park along the Charles River. It’s perfect for biking, walking, and running. The beautiful route offers amazing views of the river and the Boston skyline, an immediate favorite among both locals and visitors.

 

Find Local Treasures in Harvard Square

Harvard Square is centered on mixed shopping options, bookstores, and cafés full of local personalities. You can enjoy a coffee, browse the shelves of the famous Harvard Book Store, and check out local artists performing at the square. This square, which reminds us of history with modernity, has something for nearly everyone.

 

Discover Art at Harvard’s Museums

Harvard’s Art Museums include the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum. So, it’s a paradise for art lovers, as these museums together hold over 250,000 works of art ranging from Renaissance masterpieces to modern collections. Together, these museums both inspire and teach visitors, adding to the list of fun things to do in Massachusetts.

 

Enjoy Science at MIT’s Campus

A walk around the MIT campus shows its status as a top science and technology school, and it also gives a chance to admire interesting architecture. For example, you can stop by the Stata Center, known for its unique design, and then explore different displays across the campus. The interesting things filling the MIT campus make it a fun exploration of modern innovation and creativity.

 

Step Back in Time at Longfellow House

Located on Brattle Street, the Longfellow House was the home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Additionally, it served as George Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War. Today, it is a National Historic Site. By going on a tour, you can learn a lot about its history and see different well-preserved items from the past.

 

Visit Historic Harvard University

However, Harvard University is more than just a campus; it’s a collection of old buildings, libraries, and museums. Harvard Yard, which sits at the center of campus, has been at the heart of learning for over three centuries. History buffs will be in paradise as they tour this respected institution and many of its famous landmarks.

 

Learn History at Mount Auburn Cemetery

Mount Auburn Cemetery is an old cemetery, park, and even a tree garden that offers a pretty and peaceful setting. Visitors can take a pleasant walk through the designed grounds. There, you can see the graves of famous poets, scientists, and social leaders. Additionally, the Washington Tower provides a broad view of the Boston area.

 

Find Art Exhibits at MIT Museum

The MIT Museum has interesting shows on AI, robotics, and holography. Moreover, this very hands-on museum lets guests participate in science and technology. Art and science come together here, making this an educational experience good for everyone.

 

Cambridge on a Budget: Best Free Things to See and Do

Visit Harvard Yard for Free

One of the best parts is that you can enter Harvard Yard freely and take a walk through this famous area without any charge. This is an excellent way to enjoy Harvard’s campus, which makes one feel smart and lively. Moreover, don’t forget to rub the foot of the John Harvard statue for good luck. Visiting historic Harvard Yard is one of the free yet fun things to do in Massachusetts.

 

Wander Through the Cambridge Common

Next to Harvard Yard, Cambridge Common is the city’s oldest park, featuring monuments to George Washington and the Revolutionary War. This quiet green space is perfect for a simple picnic, as it has benches, trees, and historical signs about the American Revolution. Exploring this area is a great option when seeking budget-friendly, fun things to do in Massachusetts.

 

Explore Harvard’s Grounds

If you feel up for it, you can see much of Harvard’s campus, which has a mix of old buildings and quiet gardens. The views here are truly pretty. The Arnold Arboretum, in particular, is mostly beautiful during the spring and fall and is open to the public year-round.

 

Join a Free Cambridge Historical Walking Tour

For those interested in learning about the city’s history, the Cambridge Historical Society offers free walking tours. Through these tours, you can see important sites and hear stories about Cambridge’s role in America’s past. Additionally, many locals lead these tours, which gives a special view that you may not find anywhere else.

 

Explore the Cambridge Public Library

Another great spot is the Cambridge Public Library, where you can spend an hour or two exploring its modern design and big selection. It’s open to the public, allowing you to browse books, find quiet reading corners, and see any artwork on display. This library visit rounds out the list of peaceful and fun things to do in Massachusetts for those looking to relax indoors.

 

Travel Tips for Visitors in Cambridge, MA

• Don’t Fear Public Transportation: The “T” trains and buses can take you almost anywhere in Cambridge. They are an excellent and low-cost way of getting around.
• Visit Off-Season: To skip big groups, plan to visit Cambridge during the off-season. Spring and fall offer mild weather and are very comfortable. Also, during these seasons, the crowds are smaller, giving you plenty of room to look around at your own pace.
• Plan for Changing Weather: New England weather changes often. Be prepared to add or remove layers as the temperature shifts. Bringing a light umbrella or waterproof jacket is also helpful in case of sudden rain.
• Take Advantage of Free Events: Make sure to go to the many free events that Cambridge hosts, including outdoor concerts and public lectures. Check area event guides for the full schedule, especially during summer. These events add a festive touch to the list of fun things to do in Massachusetts.
• Stay Connected with Yoho Mobile eSIM: an eSIM will connect you to maps and provide important travel updates without extra data or roaming charges.

 

FAQs

Is Cambridge, MA worth visiting?

Absolutely. Cambridge gives a unique mix of history, culture, and scenic views, making it a perfect place to visit while on holiday in Massachusetts.

Can I tour Harvard University?

Yes, Harvard offers guided tours for visitors as well as options for self-guided walks through its historic campus and buildings.

Is parking easy in Cambridge?

Parking can be challenging, particularly in popular areas like Harvard Square. So, using public transportation or walking is often a more convenient choice most of the time.