Boston Walking Route: Recommended Spots on the Harvard University Campus

Visiting Boston, a small city known for its many world-class universities, is a must-see for those who visit this prestigious institution! Harvard University is located in Cambridge, so there are no restrictions on campus visits. We planned a free morning on one of our days to have breakfast in Harvard Square before walking to the campus to visit several famous attractions.

Since we had a preschooler with us, we didn't plan a campus tour, worried that he wouldn't be able to walk around, and we wanted to be more flexible. The main attractions we visited that day were all within easy walking distance, making it a pleasant and relaxing stroll.

Our first stop was the famous John Harvard Statue, also known as the Statue of 3 Lies. These rumors are all false: Harvard University was founded in 1636, not 1635, as written on the statue; John Harvard was a benefactor, not the founder; and even the figure depicted on the statue is not John Harvard himself. However, it's said that touching the statue's left foot brings good luck, so why not touch it? A commemorative photo is a must!

The second attraction is the Harvard Art Museum. Closed on Mondays and major national holidays, it's open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on other days. Admission is free; simply check in at the information desk. The museum, with one basement and five floors above ground, houses a rich collection, including masterpieces by Monet and Van Gogh. Near the check-in counter on the first floor, there's a coat room offering luggage and coat storage, making it a relaxing and elegant way to enjoy the museum. There's also a café and souvenir shop. It's truly a hidden gem you can't miss when visiting Harvard.

We stopped by Memorial Hall, the library, and other buildings along the way, and the two to three hours were gone! Finally, I'd like to recommend some nearby hotels. We stayed at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Boston during our five-day, four-night trip. The hotel has spacious rooms and offers a free daily shuttle service on multiple routes, including a direct shuttle from the hotel to Harvard Square. It's a safe, thoughtful, and convenient service for travelers who don't have a car but want to explore Boston easily!

Post by Miniontheroad | Aug 17, 2025