Boston: Harvard & Cambridge Walking Food Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On our Secret Food Tour: Boston – Harvard & Cambridge, you'll escape the hustle and bustle of downtown to explore a charming New England college town just across the river.
Our experienced guides will lead you on a historic adventure past stately brick buildings and ivy-covered walls, the heart of America’s most famous university—Harvard. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of some of the area’s most notable former residents, including Julia Child, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerberg, while savoring delicious delicacies at some of their favorite former haunts. Throughout the experience, you'll discover why the Puritans chose this spot to establish one of the country’s first cities—and why its charm still endures today. Harvard Square isn't just a backdrop to a renowned university; it's a cornerstone of American history.
Available options
Private Tour Option
Public Tour Option
What's included
Our delicious Secret Dish!
Boston Cream Pie Donut
Water
New England Popover
Fried Clam Po' Boy
Harvard's Favorite Pizza
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Bustling Harvard Square is anchored by Harvard University, where stately brick buildings dot a leafy campus. Fashion chains, long-running bookstores, and indie boutiques draw visitors from all over Boston, and laid-back bars, New American restaurants, and counter-serve cafes attract a largely collegiate crowd.
2
Harvard Yard is the oldest and among the most prominent parts of the campus of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. Founded October 28, 1636, and named for its first benefactor, the Puritan clergyman John Harvard, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
John Harvard is an 1884 sculpture in bronze by Daniel Chester French at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
5
The Harvard Lampoon Building is a historic building in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which is best known as the home of The Harvard Lampoon, and for its unusual design.
6
This site was originally selected by President John F. Kennedy's estate for his Presidential Library, however, it instead opened as a truly unique, independent luxury hotel in 1985 next to the Kennedy School of Government.
7
Stop 7
A site of Revolutionary War history, this park now has fields, bike paths & a creative playground.
8
Early colonial jurists & presidents of Harvard College are buried at this 17th-century cemetery.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.9
17 reviews
5★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
We'll meet In front of the Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Campus Center - 1350 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
