Art Lovers
Cambridge Art & Culture Immersion
A curated journey through Cambridge's artistic treasures
2 days9 stops
All ItinerariesHistory Buffs
Cambridge Revolutionary History Trail
Walk in the footsteps of Washington, Longfellow, and Harvard's founders
1 day
7 stops
Moderate
Spring or Fall for walking weather
Overview
Cambridge was at the heart of American independence. This historical walking tour connects Revolutionary War sites, Harvard's colonial origins, and the literary giants who called Cambridge home.
Your Day
9:00 AM1 hour
Breakfast & Cambridge Common
Cambridge Common
Start at Cambridge Common where Washington took command of the Continental Army in 1775. See the memorial and cannons.
Insider Tips
- •Washington Elm memorial marks historic spot
- •Three cannons from American Revolution
- •Beautiful park for walking
10:15 AM2 hours
Harvard Yard Historical Tour
Harvard Yard
Walk America's oldest university campus. See Massachusetts Hall (1720), Memorial Church, and learn about Harvard's colonial origins.
Insider Tips
- •Massachusetts Hall is Harvard's oldest building
- •Free student-led tours cover history
- •Widener Library has incredible history
- •John Harvard statue commemorates founder
12:30 PM1 hour
Lunch Break
Harvard Square
Historic Harvard Square dining.
1:45 PM1.5 hours
Longfellow House - Washington's Headquarters
105 Brattle St
Tour this National Historic Site that served as Washington's headquarters during the Siege of Boston, later home to poet Longfellow.
Insider Tips
- •Free admission (National Park)
- •Guided tours by rangers
- •Original Washington artifacts
- •Beautiful gardens free to explore
- •Reserve tour time in advance
3:30 PM1.5 hours
Brattle Street "Tory Row" Walk
Brattle Street
Walk past colonial-era mansions once owned by Tory loyalists. Learn about Cambridge in the Revolution.
Insider Tips
- •These were Loyalist mansions seized during Revolution
- •Beautiful 18th-century architecture
- •Many homes have historic plaques
- •Excellent for photos
5:30 PM1.5 hours
Mount Auburn Cemetery
580 Mount Auburn St
Visit America's first garden cemetery. See graves of Longfellow, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Winslow Homer, and other historical figures.
Insider Tips
- •Pick up map at entrance for notable graves
- •Washington Tower offers panoramic views
- •Beautiful landscaping year-round
- •Respectful behavior required
7:30 PM1.5 hours
Dinner
Harvard Square or Porter Square
End your historical day with dinner at a local establishment.