About This Exhibition
The Alewife Reservation is a hidden gem of urban wilderness at the end of the Red Line. This 115-acre state reservation protects critical wetlands, floodplain forests, and meadows along Alewife Brook. Boardwalk trails wind through swamps and woodland, offering surprising wildlife encounters including great blue herons, red-tailed hawks, and painted turtles. It connects to the Minuteman Bikeway, making it accessible to cyclists. Few tourists find it, which is exactly its charm.
Exhibition Highlights
Visitor's Advisory
- 1.Bring binoculars — the birdwatching is excellent
- 2.The boardwalk through the swamp is the highlight
- 3.Watch for painted turtles sunning on logs in summer
- 4.Connect to the Minuteman Bikeway for a longer ride to Lexington
- 5.Can be buggy in summer — bring insect repellent
Arriving by Rail
Seasonal Notes
Best birdwatching during spring and fall migration. Trails can flood after heavy rain.
Nearby Exhibitions
More Parks in Cambridge
Walking Tours
Where to Eat Nearby
Dear Annie
Gustazo Cuban Kitchen & Bar
Urban Hearth
Sugar & Spice
Plan Your Visit
Hours
Dawn to dusk daily
Admission
Free
Address
Acorn Park Dr, Cambridge, MA 02140
Best Time to Visit
Early morning for birdwatching. Spring and fall for migration. Avoid after heavy rain (trail flooding).
Accessibility
Boardwalk sections are accessible; some trails are unpaved
Official Website
Visit Website“Pack a picnic. A well-prepared explorer always packs a picnic.”
Every attraction tells a story. This one is yours to discover.