Things To Do
in Harvard

Harvard, United States, is best known for its prestigious university, Harvard University, which is the oldest institution of higher education in the U.S. The area is rich in history and culture, featuring stunning architecture and beautiful green spaces. Visitors can explore various museums, libraries, and parks while enjoying a vibrant academic atmosphere.

Harvard is a hub for intellectual discourse and innovation, making it a fascinating destination for travelers of all interests.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Harvard University
morning
:

Start your day with a guided campus tour of Harvard University to learn about its history and architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Harvard Art Museums to appreciate an impressive collection of artworks, followed by a stroll through Harvard Yard.

evening
:

Dine at The Charles Hotel's Henrietta's Table for a taste of local New England cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day at the Harvard Museum of Natural History, where you can see fascinating exhibits including the famous Glass Flowers.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk along the Charles River, enjoying the scenic views and possibly renting a kayak.

evening
:

Head to the nearby Alewife area for dinner at a local pub, followed by a visit to a live music venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$15
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza (slice)$3
🍺Domestic beer at a bar$7
🚌Public transportation ticket$2.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural experiences.
  • Vibrant academic atmosphere.
  • Beautiful architecture and green spaces.
  • Can be crowded, especially during tourist seasons.
  • Higher costs for dining and accommodations.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Harvard

Visit one of these nice places.

Harvard Yard

The historic heart of Harvard University, featuring iconic buildings and beautiful tree-lined paths.

John Harvard Statue

A popular spot for photos, this statue represents the founder of Harvard and is surrounded by students and visitors.

Charles River Esplanade

Offers stunning views of the Boston skyline and is perfect for sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Harvard

Harvard offers a delightful array of culinary experiences, from casual eateries to fine dining, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

Harvard Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

New England Clam Chowder

A creamy soup loaded with clams, potatoes, and onions, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Must-Try!

Lobster Roll

Fresh lobster meat served in a toasted bun, often with a light mayonnaise dressing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Harvard Square Farmers Market

Held weekly during the warmer months, this market features local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Harvard experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can be warm and humid, with temperatures averaging between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Winters are cold, often dropping below freezing, with average temperatures around 20°F to 40°F (-6°C to 4°C). Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversations; Americans typically value personal space.

Polite Greetings

A simple 'Hello' or 'How are you?' is a common way to start interactions.

Queuing

Always wait your turn in lines; cutting in is considered rude.

Safety Guide

Safety

Harvard is generally a safe area, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep personal belongings secure. The campus police are responsive and can assist with safety concerns.

Tipping in Harvard

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% in restaurants, while rounding up for bartenders is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities and campus tours.

Summer

Warm temperatures and vibrant street life, but be prepared for occasional humidity.

Fall

Autumn foliage creates picturesque scenery, making it a beautiful time to visit the university.

Winter

Cold and often snowy, winter in Harvard is cozy with holiday decorations and indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Harvard at Night

Harvard's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of student-centric bars, cafes, and live music venues. Harvard Square has several pubs that cater to university students, while nearby areas offer lounges and clubs for a more upscale experience. The atmosphere is generally lively, especially during the academic year, with events ranging from open mic nights to live concerts.

Hiking in Harvard

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Blue Hills Reservation

Located about 15 miles from Harvard, this area offers miles of trails with varying difficulty levels and stunning views of the Boston skyline.

Mystic River Reservation

A scenic area with trails along the Mystic River, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature close to the city.

Airports

How to reach Harvard by plane.

Logan International Airport

Located about 7 miles from Harvard, Logan International Airport is the primary airport serving the Boston area, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Harvard is very walkable, particularly around Harvard Square and the university campus. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the area is friendly to pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Harvard hosts a diverse student body from various backgrounds, contributing to a vibrant and multicultural environment.

Academics and Researchers

The area attracts scholars, researchers, and intellectuals from around the globe, fostering an atmosphere of innovation and learning.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American Football

Harvard has a competitive football team, and games are popular events among students and alumni.

Crew

Rowing is a significant sport in the area, with many students participating in crew teams on the Charles River.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours, but public transportation options are readily available. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) provides subway and bus services, making it easy to navigate the area without a car. Biking is also popular and encouraged.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Harvard.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and there are dedicated vegetarian and vegan eateries in the area.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, particularly in cafes and restaurants that cater to dietary preferences.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access is excellent, with several hospitals and clinics nearby, including Massachusetts General Hospital and Mount Auburn Hospital. Emergency services are responsive, and many healthcare providers accept various insurance plans.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide