First-Timers
24 Hours in Cambridge
The perfect one-day Cambridge experience
1 day7 stops
All ItinerariesMIT Visitors
MIT Innovation & Campus Tour
Explore the world's most innovative square mile
1 day
6 stops
Easy
Year-round (weekdays for campus energy)
Overview
Discover MIT's stunning architecture, cutting-edge research, and the innovation culture that makes Kendall Square "the most innovative square mile on the planet." This full-day itinerary combines campus landmarks, world-class museums, and the thriving tech ecosystem.
Your Day
9:00 AM30 min
Coffee at Flour Bakery
190 Massachusetts Ave
Start your day with award-winning pastries and coffee at Joanne Chang's beloved bakery. Try the famous sticky buns!
Insider Tips
- •Arrive early to beat the crowds
- •Sticky buns sell out by 10 AM
9:45 AM2 hours
MIT Campus Walking Tour
77 Massachusetts Ave
Explore MIT's iconic campus including the Great Dome, Infinite Corridor, and stunning modern architecture like the Stata Center. Free public tours available or self-guided.
Insider Tips
- •Visit the MIT Welcome Center for maps
- •Don't miss the Stata Center by Frank Gehry
- •Look for the many public art installations
12:00 PM1.5 hours
Lunch & MIT Museum
314 Main St
Grab lunch at the museum café, then explore interactive exhibits on robotics, AI, holography, and MIT innovations. The kinetic sculptures are mesmerizing.
Insider Tips
- •Kids under 18 enter free
- •Allow 1.5-2 hours for the museum
- •The holography collection is world's largest
2:00 PM1 hour
Explore Kendall Square
Main St & Broadway
Walk through Kendall Square, home to biotech giants, startups, and innovation. Try the Musical Swings near the T station!
Insider Tips
- •Musical Swings are at the Kendall T station plaza
- •Many building lobbies have public art
- •Stop by MIT Coop for souvenirs
3:30 PM1 hour
Charles River Walk
Memorial Drive
Stroll along the Charles River Esplanade with stunning views of the Boston skyline. Watch crew teams practice on the water.
Insider Tips
- •Best photo spots near the Harvard Bridge
- •Bring a blanket if you want to relax on the grass
5:30 PM2 hours
Dinner at Row 34
314 Main St
End your day with fresh seafood and oysters at this acclaimed Kendall Square restaurant. Great craft beer selection too.
Insider Tips
- •Reservations recommended
- •Happy hour has great oyster deals
- •The lobster roll is exceptional