A Self-Guided Harvard University Walking Tour

Cambridge , United States

A Self-Guided Harvard University Walking Tour

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Harvard University is America’s oldest institution of higher learning, founded in 1636 before the United States even existed. On this walking tour, you’ll hear how a desperate Puritan colony’s need for literate ministers evolved into the world’s most prestigious university, and how it continues to shape American history.

This self-guided walking tour starts at the Harvard Student Center in Harvard Square. You’ll pass through the famous gates into Harvard Yard, where the oldest collegiate buildings in America still house students today. You’ll stroll through the historic campus, passing the iconic Widener Library with its tragic Titanic connection, the whispering arches of Sever Hall, and Memorial Church.

Available options

A Self-Guided Harvard University Walking Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

We'll also pass by Lehman Hall, where John Adams, the second President of the USA, along with Sam Adams and James Bowdoin, wrote the constitution of the Commonwealth of MA. However, entry to the Hall is not included on the tour.

We'll also pass by Wadsworth Hall, adding to the historic charm of the campus. However, entry to the house itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Porcellian Club, with its historic student rituals. Rntry to the building is not included on the tour.

We'll also pass by the The Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library, with its massive collection of valued books. However, entry to the Library itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Barker Center, with its unique architecture. However, entry to the Center itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Harvard Art Museums with its unique collection of art. However, entry to the Museums is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts, with its divisive architecture. However, entry to the center is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the San Niccolò Church, with its unique fire alarm sprinkler system. However, entry to the Hall itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Memorial Church, with its famous list of speakers. However, entry to the church itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Harvard Law School, perhaps the most storied law faculty in the world. However, entry to the school itself is not included in this tour.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions

Meeting point

This tour starts at Harvard University Visitor Center. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading."

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Cambridge

Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a vibrant city steeped in history and intellectual prowess, home to prestigious institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). With its charming neighborhoods, rich cultural scene, and diverse dining options, Cambridge offers a unique blend of academic excellence and urban charm.

Top Attractions

Harvard University

One of the most prestigious universities in the world, Harvard University offers beautiful campuses, historic buildings, and a rich academic atmosphere.

Historical/Educational Half day to full day Free to explore the campus, museum admission varies

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

A leading institution in technology and innovation, MIT's campus features modern architecture, scenic views, and interactive exhibits.

Historical/Educational Half day Free to explore the campus, museum admission varies

Harvard Square

A bustling hub of activity, Harvard Square is known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic buildings, and diverse dining and shopping options.

Cultural/Shopping A few hours Free to explore, shopping and dining costs vary

Charles River Esplanade

A scenic park along the Charles River, offering beautiful views, walking paths, and recreational activities.

Nature/Outdoor A few hours Free

MIT Museum

The MIT Museum showcases the history and innovations of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, featuring exhibits on robotics, holography, and more.

Museum 1-2 hours $10-$15

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lobster Roll

A classic New England dish featuring lobster meat served in a buttered, toasted roll.

Lunch Contains seafood, gluten

Clam Chowder

A creamy, hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, and onions.

Soup Contains dairy, gluten (if served with oyster crackers)

Boston Cream Pie

A layered dessert featuring sponge cake, custard, and chocolate glaze.

Dessert Contains dairy, gluten, eggs

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Kayaking on the Charles River Picnicking in the Charles River Esplanade Visiting spas and wellness centers Reading in Harvard Yard Visiting museums Attending theater performances

Best Time to Visit

September to November, April to June

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Fall foliage in September and October is particularly beautiful.

10-25°C 50-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cambridge is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Logan International Airport • 8 km (5 miles)

By train

Cambridge Station

By bus

South Station, Logan Airport

Getting around

Public transport

The Red Line is the main subway route in Cambridge, connecting to Harvard Square and other key areas. It is efficient and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Harvard Square Central Square Kendall Square Inman Square

Day trips

Boston

5 km (3 miles) • Half day to full day

Boston offers a wealth of historic sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Salem

30 km (19 miles) • Full day

Salem is famous for its witch trials and offers a mix of historic sites and maritime attractions.

Concord

25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day

Concord is known for its historic sites related to the American Revolution and its beautiful natural surroundings.

Festivals

Cambridge River Festival • June Cambridge Arts River Festival • July Cambridge Winter Festival • December

Pro tips

Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system to get around easily and affordably.
Visit the Harvard Art Museums and the MIT Museum for a unique cultural experience.
Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Cambridge, each offering its own unique character and attractions.
Try the local seafood, particularly lobster and clam dishes, for an authentic New England dining experience.
Attend a lecture or event at Harvard or MIT for a taste of the city's intellectual atmosphere.