Welcome to Harvard Square

Harvard Square, in Cambridge, MA is formed by the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue, Brattle Street, and John F. Kennedy Street. Harvard Square is home to Harvard University, several historic sites, local businesses, national chains, and lively street performances. All of these things make Harvard Square a popular destination for tourists, shoppers, and of course students. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Boston by the Red Line, Harvard Square has changed over the years from what once was home to a thriving, quaint, locally owned business community to national chains and retailers. Yet somehow Harvard Square maintains much of its charm and pride and cleanliness. Local youth, artists, musicians, and scene kids make a sunken area in the center of the square known as "The Pit" their hang-out, especially during the summer.

Cambridge is located on the north side of the Charles River, which separates Cambridge from Boston. Home to Harvard University as well as MIT, Cambridge has a rich history. Originally established in 1630 as the town Newtowne, by the 700 original Puritan colonists of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, its name was changed to Cambridge in 1638 shortly after the founding of Harvard College. Cambridge was an active village, comprising of mostly Puritan colonists for many years to come. Cambridge was incorporated as the second city in Massachusetts in 1846.