Harvard Square and University Smartphone Guided Audio Walking
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Harvard Square and University Smartphone Guided Audio Walking

Active
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Want to get a solo tour of Harvard? Don't have time for a group tour? Our tour will take you through Harvard Square’s lively academic and cultural scene, see historic churches, the Harvard Lampoon Building, the books stores, the grounds of the university, the John Harvard Statue, the Harvard Art Museums and much more. You'll have a great feel of Harvard once your done. Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour is location aware and plays as you walk.

Available options

Harvard Square and University Smartphone Guided Audio Walking

What's included

Go at your own pace. The tour never expires. Go anytime.
Tour of Harvard University, square and area on our walking tour app
Hands free, location aware, the tour plays as you walk.

Detailed itinerary

1

The tour ends at the Harvard Art Museums, a free museum with iconic works that is free to enter.

2

The Commander Hotel was named to commemorate the spot at Cambridge Common where George Washington first took command of the Continental Army in 1775. And it's seen it's fair share of visitors. The tour starts here then guides you step by step through Harvard Square and Harvard University.

3

This is one of the oldest and most influential congregations in all of New England. The church was established in sixteen thirty-six and was the 11th oldest congregation in Massachusetts.

4
Stop 4

The Cambridge Common is more than just a green patch at Harvard’s doorstep; historically, it’s the heart of Cambridge. In sixteen thirties, the grounds were originally set aside as “cow common” for grazing livestock and wood gathering.

5

Old Burial Ground 190

Peek over the gates for a moment.

Soldiers from the American Revolution, some killed during the British retreat from Lexington and Concord in seventeen seventy-five, are memorialized by a central granite obelisk, and there are even the gravestones of two Black patriots, Cato Stedman and Neptune Frost, whose lives remind us that freedom was always fought for by many voices.

6

Christ Church Cambridge, founded in 1759 is the oldest standing church building in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

7

In eighteen twenty-nine, at the peak of the crisis, when the congregation split, the more liberal, Unitarian majority retained the historic meeting house and eventually became known as First Parish in Cambridge, which sits right in the heart of Harvard Square.

8
Stop 8

Great for shopping and has a great history and story

9

Before it was Cambridge, it was Newtowne. And this site tells a bit about the story.

10

The Harvard Lampoon Building, a quirky, turreted “castle” that looks like a cross between a Flemish town hall, a medieval fantasy, and a practical joke you’re not quite sure you understand.

11

Iconic bookstore with a great story.

12

Johnston Gate isn’t just for show; through tradition, it has become both a literal and symbolic threshold.

Each year at Commencement, the sheriffs of Middlesex and Suffolk Counties ride in on horseback through this entrance to call graduates to order—a tradition that has persisted for generations. YOu'll learn that and much more.

13

The story of the hall holds many of the stories of the university, and a fire.

14
Stop 14

This statue tells of the 3 lies. What are they? Find out that and more on the tour.

15

Very interesting statue with a chinese story and more.

16

The story starts with the son that perished on the Titanic. Learn more on the tour.

17

The old church holds stories, find out on the tour.

18

Funded by Anne Sever in memory of her husband, James Warren Sever, it was intended as a hub for “academic life and lecture”. Critics and admirers have jousted over its design since it appeared, some calling it fortress-like, others praising its vigor and originality, but Sever has weathered every drift of opinion with understated confidence. It’s so admired by architects that the renowned Robert Venturi, a giant of postmodern design, once called Sever Hall his “favorite building in America,” attesting to both its artistic impact and the subtle genius of its details.

What's not included

No food or drink
No admission this is all outside
No human guide, this is guided by our walking tour app

Available languages

Audio guide
EN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The Commander Hotel was named to commemorate the spot at Cambridge Common where George Washington first took command of the Continental Army in 1775. And it's seen it's fair share of visitors. The tour starts here then guides you step by step through Harvard Square and Harvard University.

Important notes

Thank you for booking Harvard Square and University Historical Walking Tour

Quick overview:
1. Get the WalknTours app
2. Register
3. Unlock the tour by choosing the tour and use code sea2780 to unlock it

Full ticket:

HOW TO TAKE YOUR TOUR
*Do not purchase the tour in the WalknTours app. Use Code sea2780
*If you purchased more than one ticket make sure each user registers a unique account and email address. You will use the same experience code sea2780

Step 1: Download the WalknTours app on iPhone or Android.
https://onelink.to/ffpuug

Step 2: Register an Account or Login

Step 3: Open the Tour
Select Cambridge (Or select the tour in the Near Me section)
Select Harvard Square and University Historical Walking Tour and click it.
Click "Enter Experience Code"
Enter the Experience Code sea2780
Click apply
The tour is now unlocked and you can take it anytime.

To take the tour go to Sheraton Commander Hotel at 16 Garden St, Cambridge, MA 02138

If you have questions call/text US +1 617-991-3269 or email info@walkntours.com

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 10-100
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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