Winter in Cambridge: 10 Best Things to Do Near Harvard Square
Winter in New England is more than just a season; it is an atmosphere. When the brick-lined streets of Cambridge are blanketed in white, the Harvard Square Hotel becomes a warm sanctuary at the center of it all. Whether you are a local seeking a staycation or a visitor embracing the chill, here is how to make the most of January in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Embrace the New England Chill: Outdoor Winter Activities
Sledding at the Historic Cambridge Common
Just a three-minute walk from Harvard Square Hotel, the Cambridge Common transforms into a hub of winter joy. This 16-acre park, a National Historic Landmark, features gentle slopes that are perfect for a spontaneous sledding session. It is the ideal spot to enjoy the crisp air before retreating to the Square for a hot chocolate.
Ice Skating at Canal District Kendall
For a more polished winter experience, head to the Community Ice Rink at Kendall Square. This outdoor rink is surrounded by the glass towers of Cambridge’s tech hub, offering a stunning urban backdrop for skaters of all levels. They offer skate rentals and lessons, making it a seamless afternoon trip.
A Short Trip to the Magic of "Snowport"
Located just a quick 15-minute trip across the river to Boston’s Seaport District, Snowport is a winter essential. This massive holiday market features over 120 local vendors, a "Tree Market," and the fan-favorite "iceless" curling lanes. It is a vibrant, neon-lit wonderland that captures the modern spirit of a Boston winter.
Cozy Indoor Escapes: Culture, Art, and History
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: A Floral Sanctuary
Perhaps the best-kept secret for escaping the January frost is the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. While the exterior is a classic brick facade, the interior holds a stunning Venetian-style courtyard. Even in the dead of winter, this courtyard is a lush, blooming oasis. The museum’s collection, spanning from Rembrandt to Sargent, is housed in a palace that feels worlds away from the snowy streets outside. Located just a short drive or subway ride away from Harvard Square Hotel, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is worth the trip.
Exploring the Harvard Museum of Natural History
Located moments from our doorstep, this museum is home to the world-famous Ware Collection of Blown Glass Models of Plants. These thousands of "Glass Flowers" are so botanically accurate that they are often mistaken for real specimens. It is a quiet, contemplative space to spend a cold afternoon learning about the natural world without having to face the winter elements.
Seasonal Traditions in the Heart of the Square
The Harvard Square Tree Lighting and Boutique Shopping
The Square remains festive well into the New Year. The annual Tree Lighting ceremony in the heart of the Square kicks off a season of evening strolls. Use the hotel as your home base to explore independent shops like the Harvard Bookstore or the high-end boutiques on Brattle Street, where you can find unique New England keepsakes.
Warming Up at the Harvard Square Hotel
After a day of exploring, there is no need to wander far for comfort. Harvard Square Hotel offers the perfect vantage point to watch the snowfall over the Square while enjoying our boutique hotel accommodations. With property-wide Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere, it is the perfect place to thaw out and plan your next day of Cambridge adventures.