Cambridge doesn't have to be expensive. These 20 free activities are some of the best things to do in the city, period.
Cambridge: Expensive to Live, Free to Enjoy
Cambridge has a reputation for being expensive, and the rent confirms it. But the best things about the city are often free. Harvard's campus, MIT's architecture, the Charles River, world-class museums on free days, public art, and some of the best people-watching in America — all completely free. Here are 20 activities that cost nothing and are genuinely worth your time.
The Best Free Activities
Walk Harvard Yard
The most famous campus in America is free and open to the public. Self-guided or join a free student-led tour from the Smith Campus Center.
MIT Campus Architecture Tour
See works by Gehry, Saarinen, Aalto, and I.M. Pei — all free, all stunning. Pick up a map at the MIT Welcome Center.
Charles River Esplanade
Walk, run, or bike along the river with Boston skyline views. Memorial Drive is car-free on summer Sundays.
Harvard Art Museums (Free Saturdays)
Free for MA residents on Saturday mornings 10am-12pm. Three world-class museums under one Renzo Piano roof.
Mount Auburn Cemetery
America's first garden cemetery. 175 acres of gardens, sculpture, and birdwatching. The tower has panoramic views.
Longfellow House — NPS Site
Free National Park site where Washington headquartered and Longfellow wrote. Guided tours May-October.
MIT List Visual Arts Center
Always free contemporary art museum at MIT. Plus 60+ public art pieces on campus.
Harvard Science Center Instruments
Free museum of 500 years of scientific instruments. One of Harvard's best-kept secrets.
Free Museum Days to Know
Harvard Natural History Museum: Free for MA residents Sunday 9am-12pm. Harvard Art Museums: Free for MA residents Saturday 10am-12pm. MIT Museum: Free for children under 18. Carpenter Center Sert Gallery: Always free. Harvard Semitic Museum: Always free.