Top 10 Things to Do in Harvard Square Before You Die
Maybe it’s your first visit to Harvard Square. Maybe you’ve taken The Hahvahd Tour a dozen times. Maybe you’re a local. No matter what your relationship to Cambridge is, here are 10 activities you must do while in this fair city.
Explore All 3 Harvard Art Museums
For a time Harvard operated three separate Art Museums - The Fogg, (opened in 1895) The Busch-Reisinger, (1903) and the Sackler (1985.) Today they are all housed together in the same building on Quincy St, right next to Harvard Yard. Find your favorite piece from each collection!
Find the Whale in the Harvard Museum of Natural History
The vast exhibits of the Harvard Museum of Natural History can provide hours of entertainment. Glimpse a shell from the largest freshwater turtle species in the world, numerous dinosaur fossils, and an expansive collection of geodes & crystals! Our favorite are the two massive whale skeletons bolted to the ceiling in the Hall of Mammals!
Buy a Book from Raven’s Used Books, Harvard Book Store, and the Harvard COOP
Harvard Square is full of great places to find books, and quiet space to read them. Find classic works and great deals on used textbooks at Raven’s Used Books, see what the students are looking for at the Harvard COOP, and discover original works from local authors alongside bestsellers at the Harvard Book Store!
Browse the Tunes at Planet Records
Find popular hits and hidden gems among the vinyl collection at Planet Records. A long time Harvard Square staple and you can walk out with a keepsake that will remind you of your visit every time you drop the needle.
See a Show at A.R.T. or Oberon
Looking for an evening activity? There’s nothing like taking in a good show, and the performers at these two sister theaters rarely disappoint. The American Repertory Theatre has been a launching pad for Broadway shows like Jagged Little Pill and Waitress, while Oberon has been putting on unique and experimental pieces for years.
Rent A Kayak
One of the most beautiful spots in Cambridge is the Charles River. You can watch the action from the walking paths along the banks, or head to a Canoe & Kayak rental rental and get the best views from the center of the River!
Watch a Classic Movie at Brattle Theatre
Another great option for evening entertainment is to head to the historic Brattle Square Theatre and take in a showing of classic, foreign, or independent movies. Don’t forget the snacks!
Grab a Sicilian Slice at ‘Noch’s
Looking for a student experience? For an authentic visit you can’t beat Pinocchio’s Pizza. Try the classic cheese or their popular tomato basil Sicilian pizza. One slice is enough to leave you stuffed! Check out the pictures inside of celebrities who name ‘Noch’s among their favorite Harvard locations.
Experience Head of the Charles, Boston Calling, or The Game
Timed right, you might experience some remarkable events: “The Game” is an annual football game between Harvard and Yale played. The stadium often sells out but the pre-game tailgating is an event all it’s own. Head of the Charles is one of the most famous river regattas in the world, and watch Crew teams from all over the world. Feel the music in your feet at the 3-day musical festival, Boston Calling.
Take The “Hahvahd” Tour
There’s no better way to see Harvard Square than with a student guide on the Hahvahd Tour! You’ll experience the school from an insider perspective, and get hilarious, historical stories about the global impact of Harvard University. Book your ticket now!
