How to spend a weekend in Cambridge, MA

Mar 28

Cambridge has a lot to offer in terms of history and culture. Here are some of the best Cambridge events and things to do, whether you’re a resident or just visiting for a weekend.

Best Free Things to Do in Cambridge, MA

Charles River Bike Path

This 22-mile trail takes you from the Museum of Science along the scenic Charles River past MIT, Harvard, and into Watertown.

Harvard Tour

Student-guided tours of the Harvard University campus are a great way to explore the ins and outs of the oldest University in the United States.

Longfellow House

The home of 19th century poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (of “Paul Revere’s Ride”) served as the headquarters for General George Washington during the Siege of Boston in 1775.

Massachusetts Ave

Mass Ave runs through all the major areas of Cambridge including Porter Square, Harvard Square, Central Square, and MIT.

Old Burial Ground

This antiquated cemetery in the heart of Harvard Square marks the resting place of Harvard University presidents and Revolutionary War soldiers dating back to 1635.

Best Outdoor Spots in Cambridge, MA

Fresh Pond Reservation

The park surrounding this large reservoir is a great place to play frisbee or have a picnic.

Harvard Divinity School Labyrinth

This small labyrinth offers an opportunity to get away from the buzz of the city for some quiet contemplation.

Killian Court

This large lawn beneath MIT’s iconic Great Dome is an excellent spot to catch 4th of July fireworks.

Magazine Beach

Cambridge’s second largest park lies along the Charles River where you can swim in the public pool and watch the sun set.

Mt Auburn Cemetery

This large peaceful arboretum was the first garden cemetery in the United States.

Best Events in Cambridge, MA

Cambridge Carnival

The largest annual festival in Cambridge happens every September featuring a colorful parade and Afro-Carribean food.

Cambridge City Dance Party

The last Friday in June, Central Square shuts down for DJs to play for thousands in the streets in front of City Hall.

Head of the Charles Regatta

This series of late-October rowing races on the Charles River features competitors from all of the world.

Harvard Square Oktoberfest & HONK! Parade

This October street festival has people packed into Harvard Square for brass band music, food, and plenty of beer.

Taste of Cambridge

This July event allows visitors to sample food from over 100 Cambridge restaurants all in one place.

Best Restaurants in Cambridge, MA

Area Four

Serving amazing wood-fired pizza and cocktails.

Dumpling House

With their large dumpling selection, you can’t do much better than this for Chinese.

Giulia

Handmade pastas and a rustic atmosphere make for a great Italian dinner.

Mamaleh’s

This Jewish deli is one of the most popular brunch spots in the city.

Puritan & Company

Traditional New England dishes in a modern atmosphere.

Best Hidden Treasures in Cambridge, MA

Fort Washington Park

Cannons still sit on the earthwork remnants of the oldest surviving fortification from the Revolutionary War.

Modica Way

This alley in Central Square is an ever-changing gallery of graffiti. If you visit you’ll likely see artists at work.

O’Reilly Spite House

This miniscule 308-square foot house in West Cambridge was built by Francis O’Reilly in 1908 for the sole purpose of annoying his neighbors.

Pooh’s House

Just outside the Harvard Science Center lies a stump decorated to look like the home of Winnie the Pooh.

In 1958 MIT student Oliver Smoot repeatedly laid down on what is officially the Harvard Bridge along Massachusetts Ave so his friends could measure its distance in “Smoots”. The total - “364.4 SMOOTS ± 1 EAR”. Their original markings are still maintained in paint on the concrete.

renters

Sage Jankowitz