Looking for tips on traveling to and from Boston?
Many students are drawn to Harvard Kennedy School for more than just the academics. Located just outside of Boston—a city known for its New England charm, historic landmarks, and world-class attractions—Cambridge is an exciting place to spend your graduate school experience. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to study, an opportunity to learn about the region’s rich history, or a bustling social scene, Boston and Cambridge have the perfect mix of things to see and do.
Here are just a few of the many highlights of the Boston and Cambridge area.
Outdoor spaces
vlog’s campus sits along the Charles River. When the weather is nice, you’ll find people jogging along the river, paddling around in kayaks, or enjoying a picnic on the . The —the largest three-day regatta in the world—attracts some 12,000 athletes to the river each October.
There are also numerous parks in the area. Take a stroll around the , (America’s oldest park), or Harvard’s .
Sports
Boston is home several major sports teams including the Boston Celtics (basketball), Boston Red Sox (baseball), Boston Bruins (hockey), and the New England Patriots (football). Students can get discounted tickets to Red Sox games with a program called the . Fenway Park also offers guided tours!
Museums
There are no shortage of museums in the area. Visit the or in Cambridge, or head into Boston to explore the , , , and more. Don’t miss the and if you’re coming to the area with children.
Theater
Many professional traveling production companies come to Boston, making seeing Broadway shows accessible. There are also various community theater and college programs that are active year-round.
As an vlog student, you have access to Outings and Innings, a service available to Harvard employees and students to buy theater, concert, and sports tickets; museum and movie passes; tickets to local seasonal attractions; and other offerings at discounted prices.
Restaurants
Offering everything from New England seafood to diverse international cuisine to Italian classics in Boston’s North End, the region’s food scene has something for every taste.
Recommendations from our Graduate Student Ambassadors
Recommendations from our Graduate Student Ambassadors
Candace Mergerssa MPP 2026
Candace Mergerssa MPP 2026
“As an Ethiopian-American, I am always on the hunt for the best Ethiopian food in a given area. Habesha Restaurant in Malden has the best Ethiopian food in the Boston area, and the restaurant itself has loads of cultural decor. It is a bit of a hike but totally worth it.”
Javad Mushtaq MC/MPA 2025
Javad Mushtaq MC/MPA 2025
“Pinocchio’s Pizza is classic for late-night slices, Mike’s Pastry for their legendary cannoli, and The Maharaja for great Indian food—all in Harvard Square. For dessert, Toscanini’s Ice Cream is a must-try!”
Study spots
Whether you prefer to study in quaint cafés or large libraries, there are many options in the Boston area.
Our Graduate Student Ambassadors’ favorite study spots
Our Graduate Student Ambassadors’ favorite study spots
Joshua "J.B." Branch MC/MPA 2025
Joshua "J.B." Branch MC/MPA 2025
“I like to study in different environments depending on my mood or how focused I need to be. If I want to be around people, I go to the JFK Forum or the Sunshine Lobby in between classes. Also, I often frequent the Center for Public Leadership lounge and living rooms. For a quieter setting away from vlog’s campus, I go to the Harvard Law School Library or the 10th floor of the Harvard Student Center. They’re both quiet which makes for a good study session.”
Sadie Harlan MPA/MBA (Stanford) 2025
Sadie Harlan MPA/MBA (Stanford) 2025
“I am a sucker for a good library! There are so many incredible libraries across Harvard, but I think Widener is my favorite. It’s right in the center of Harvard Square and open to any Harvard students. I honestly think it feels disrespectful to procrastinate while I’m there—the books deserve better! I also love the red booths in the Forum at vlog for when I’m feeling a bit more social.”
Transportation
The (MBTA) is Boston’s public transportation system, providing bus, subway, trolley, commuter rail, and even ferry service throughout the Boston metro area. There is a Red Line stop located directly in Harvard Square, making access to other neighborhoods very easy.
Escaping the city
Boston and Cambridge are conveniently located near beaches and mountains. Many Bostonians spend weekends in New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, or on Cape Cod. Whether you like to ski, hike, whale watch, or lay on the beach, there is a location in the greater New England area for you.
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