Family-Friendly Adventures in Cambridge, Massachusetts!

Harvard Square

Why Visit?

Welcome to the vibrant Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts! Get ready for a day filled with fun, education, and exploration, perfect for families.

Morning

Start your adventure at the Harvard Yard, the historic heart of Harvard University. Easily accessible by the MBTA Red Line, get off at the Harvard Square stop. Stroll around the Yard and admire the centuries-old architecture and the statue of John Harvard. Join a free student-led historical tour starting at the Harvard Information Center to learn fascinating facts about the university’s history.

Lunch

Head to one of the family-friendly eateries around the square. Pinocchio"s Pizza & Subs offers delicious, kid-friendly food, or for a healthier bite, try Clover Food Lab, known for its locally-sourced vegetarian menu.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History on Oxford Street, just a 10-minute walk from the square. The museum is famous for its fascinating exhibits, including an impressive collection of minerals and the famous glass flowers. This experience will captivate children and adults alike with the wonders of natural science.

Evening

As the day winds down, catch a performance at the American Repertory Theater, known for its family-friendly shows. Check their schedule in advance and book tickets for a memorable theatrical experience.

Dining

End your day with dinner at Grendel’s Den. This cozy spot offers a discount on food during their "Happy Hour", and children will love the relaxed atmosphere.

Before you leave, take a leisurely walk along the Charles River, just a few blocks from the square, perfect for reflecting on your day and watching the sunset.

This itinerary offers a balanced mix of educational and leisure activities, making your visit to Harvard Square enjoyable and memorable for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Why Visit?

Exciting Family Day at MIT!

Morning: Arrival & Campus Tour

Start your MIT adventure by arriving early to enjoy a less crowded experience. Park at the 139 Massachusetts Avenue parking lot or take the MBTA Red Line to Kendall/MIT Station, which drops you right at the heart of campus. Begin with a guided Public Tour (advance booking online is recommended; check MIT"s website for availability and times), an excellent way to get an overview of this prestigious university.

Mid-Morning: MIT Museum

After your campus tour, walk over to the MIT Museum, just a 10-minute stroll away at 314 Main Street. The museum showcases fascinating exhibitions on science, technology, and innovation. Don"t miss the Kinetic Art exhibits and the Holography Gallery, which are surefire hits with kids of all ages!

Lunch Break: Cambridge Eatery

For lunch, head to the nearby Kendall Square, an area bustling with family-friendly dining options. Enjoy a mix of local flavors that cater to all tastes, from classic American burgers at Cambridge Brewing Company to healthy wraps and salads.

Afternoon: Stata Center & Public Art Collection

Post-lunch, explore the iconic Stata Center, designed by architect Frank Gehry, located a short walk from the main dining areas of Kendall Square. Its unique, deconstructivist style of architecture makes it a fantastic backdrop for family photos. Next, embark on a self-guided tour of MIT"s impressive Public Art Collection featuring works by renowned artists like Pablo Picasso and Henry Moore.

Evening: Reflect & Relax by the Charles River

Cap off your day by relaxing along the Charles River. Enjoy the skyline views, and if you’re visiting in the warmer months, watch crews rowing in sync down the river—a serene way to conclude your MIT visit.

Remember to check the MIT website for any changes in opening hours or tour availability before your visit. Enjoy your family day at MIT!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Charles River

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family-friendly adventure along the Charles River, a cherished natural retreat spanning from Boston to Cambridge. Start your journey at the Charles River Esplanade in Boston. Easily accessible by public transportation, take the MBTA Green Line to the Arlington Station and walk to the Hatch Shell, an iconic outdoor concert venue. Here, youngsters can enjoy the playgrounds, and the entire family can rent kayaks to paddle along the serene river.

Next, stroll west along the river to the Charles River Basin. This area is perfect for a picnic with breathtaking views of the Boston skyline and ample green space for kids to play. Along the way, educate your family with fun facts about the river"s role in American history and its transformation from a heavily industrialized area to a beloved recreational hotspot.

From the Basin, hop on a bike (rentals are available nearby) and ride across the Harvard Bridge to Cambridge. This ride offers stunning vistas and a chance to spot crew teams from local universities rowing in unison.

Once in Cambridge, visit the Museum of Science, which overlooks the river. It’s a short bike ride upriver or a quick trip on the MBTA Red Line from Kendall/MIT Station. The museum is a treasure trove of interactive exhibits that engage children in learning about science and nature.

Conclude your visit with a relaxing dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants overlooking the river, or treat yourselves to a scenic sunset cruise departing from CambridgeSide. This delightful day along the Charles River offers a blend of education, recreation, and relaxation, ensuring memorable moments for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Kendall Square

Why Visit?

Welcome to Kendall Square, Cambridge! Known for its innovative spirit and vibrant atmosphere, this neighborhood is perfect for a family day out. Here’s a fun-filled itinerary that promises education and excitement for all ages.

Morning: MIT Museum

Start your adventure at the MIT Museum located at 265 Massachusetts Ave. Easily accessible by the MBTA Red Line, get off at the Kendall/MIT station. This museum showcases a collection that celebrates the intersection of art, science, and technology—guaranteeing a thought-provoking experience for both kids and adults. Check out kinetic sculptures and holography exhibits that are sure to amaze!

Lunch at Cambridge Center Roof Garden

After stimulating your minds, take a short walk to the Cambridge Center Roof Garden for a peaceful picnic with spectacular views of the city. It’s a hidden gem just around the corner from the Kendall/MIT station and the perfect spot to enjoy a bite and relax.

Afternoon: Charles River Canoe & Kayak

Post lunch, head to the Charles River for some physical activity and fun. Rent kayaks or canoes from Charles River Canoe & Kayak, just a 10-minute walk from Kendall Square along Broad Canal Way. Paddling along the Charles gives you a unique view of Boston and Cambridge and is an enjoyable way for the family to bond.

Evening: Exploration and Dinner

Round off your day by exploring the public art installations around Kendall Square. Then, head to one of the family-friendly restaurants in the area, such as Area Four, known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and a fun, casual atmosphere.

Kendall Square offers an enriching and entertaining experience that melds the realms of academia, culture, and recreation. It’s a neighborhood where each corner offers something new to learn and enjoy, making it an ideal destination for a family outing.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

John Harvard Statue

Why Visit?

Visiting the John Harvard Statue can be a delightful centerpiece for a family day out in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Here’s a fun and educational itinerary:

Morning: Start at Harvard Yard

- Getting There: Take the Red Line to Harvard Square. The entrance to Harvard Yard is a short walk from the station, and it"s where you"ll find the famous John Harvard Statue.

- At the Statue: Known as the "Statue of Three Lies," the bronze statue is a great starting point for a brief discussion with kids about myths and facts. Contrary to the inscription, John Harvard was not the founder of Harvard University, but a benefactor. Also, the statue is not actually of John Harvard, as no images of him exist — it"s a student model. And, Harvard University was founded in 1636, not 1638.

- Photo Opportunity: Let the kids mimic the pose of John Harvard and take photos. Touching the shoe for good luck, as many tourists and students do, can be a fun addition!

Lunch: Harvard Square

- Options Abound: Explore the surrounding Harvard Square for a variety of family-friendly dining options. From American diners to international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy everyone.

Afternoon: Harvard Museum of Natural History

- Getting There: It"s about a 10-minute walk from Harvard Yard. Head north on Oxford Street.

- Explore: Don"t miss the famous Glass Flowers collection, and the dinosaur fossils which are always a hit with the kids.

Evening: Charles River

- Stroll and Sail: End your day with a relaxing walk along the Charles River, or enjoy a family boat ride. The riverside offers beautiful views of the Boston skyline, perfect for evening relaxation.

This itinerary around the John Harvard Statue not only provides a mix of education and fun but also allows your family to soak in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Cambridge. Enjoy your trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.