An afternoon in Harvard Square | Cambridge

When:
Wednesday, Oct 01, 2025 11:00a -
Wednesday, Dec 31, 2025 7:00p

Where:
Harvard Square
Brattle St
Cambridge, MA 02138

EventScheduled OfflineEventAttendanceMode

Admission:
$varies

Categories:
Drinks, Food, Good for Groups, History, Photoworthy, University

Welcome to Harvard Square — the heart of Cambridge and one of the oldest parts of the city. Centered around Harvard University, which was founded in 1636 (100+ years before the Declaration of Independence was written!), this lively square has evolved from a colonial village green into a vibrant city hub, fill of some of the area's best bars, restaurants, and things to do in Boston.


Here are our recommendations for spending an afternoon in Harvard Square, which is easily accessible by the Red Line:


by Nicole Rosania


1) Brunch / lunch at Daily Provisions


Begin your visit with a coffee and bite to eat at one of Harvard's newest cafes — Daily Provisions. Originating in New York, Daily Provisions brings Cambridge a cozy spot for coffee, crullers, lunch, and a well-earned glass of wine. Whether you're wandering the brick-lined streets of Harvard Square or breaking from the books, it's the perfect place to pause, refuel, and feel at home.


2) Take a student-led tour of campus


The free, student-led public walking tour through Harvard Yard provides a history of the University, general information, and a unique view on the students’ individual experience. It takes about an hour!


3) Shop around Harvard Square


There are some charming boutiques, popular chains, and school spirit stores scattered around Harvard. If you love stationary, visit Bob Slate Stationer. The Harvard Shirt Shop is great for Harvard apparel and gifts. Leavitt & Peirce is also fun for gifts and local goods.


4) Visit Lovestruck Books


Voted the best bookstore in Boston, Lovestruck Books is a must-visit. The female-owned, romance-themed bookstore features a café and wine bar operated by George Howell Coffee where guests can enjoy coffee and tea — as

well as wine and nonalcoholic options in the evening, paired with sandwiches and pastries from local artisan purveyors.


5) Try the pizza at Source


SOURCE is a fresh, modern approach to the local gastropub and pizza bar. Discover an innovative dining destination that features rustic yet refined food, with an unmatched craft and local beverage program. Utilizing local and sustainable products and only the purest ingredients, SOURCE’s mission is to embrace the root of who we are and what we consume.


6) Grab a drink at The Longfellow Bar


Award-winning chef and restaurateur Michael Scelfo presents The Longfellow Bar at Alden & Harlow, a neighborhood bar and restaurant located in the historic Café Algiers space directly above his flagship restaurant at 40 Brattle Street in Harvard Square.







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10/01/2025 11:00:00 12/31/2025 19:00:00 America/New_York An afternoon in Harvard Square | Cambridge <p>Welcome to Harvard Square — the heart of Cambridge and one of the oldest parts of the city. Centered around Harvard University, which was founded in 1636 (100+ years before the Declaration of In...

https://www.thebostoncalendar.com/events/an-afternoon-in-harvard-square-cambridge Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA 02138 false MM/DD/YYYY

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