Harvard Square
DESCRIPTION: In 1630, Harvard Square was originally named Newtowne, and was to be the capital of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. According to HarvardSquare.com, it was the first planned town in colonial North America. A few of the streets near the square, including Story Street, Church Street, and parts of Massachusetts Avenue, still remain as part of the first settlement. With the establishment of Harvard University, the Square soon shifted with the university as its center, however, there was little else to attract the patrons aside from a few small shops.
In contrast, today Harvard Square is a popular tourist destination, attracting over 8 million visitors from every corner of the world. The Square is a mix of student and resident population, with over 20,000 students present during the academic year. The area combines history, with many of the visitors exploring Harvard University and area landmarks, along with modern stores, restaurants, and bookshops.
However, Harvard Square is not only about the university. According to the Harvard Business Association, there are 365 businesses present in a quarter of a mile, and almost 80 percent of them are locally owned. Because of its proximity to Harvard University, the Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce named it the third best retail market in the state. Harvard Square also offers many festivals throughout the year, including Oktoberfest.
LOCATION: The commercial center of Cambridge, Harvard Square is adjacent to the famous Harvard Yard. It is located off JFK Street and Memorial Drive. The primary street in the Square is Brattle Street.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ACCESS: Harvard Square is accessible on the MBTA’s Red Line. Thirteen bus connections also stop there as well. For those looking to park and then take public transportation, the MBTA’s Alewife Station has a large parking facility.
PARKING: The Harvard Business Association reports parking at Harvard Square to be available in the
following places:
- Six public lots with a combined total of 1563 spaces
- A municipal lot offering 28 spaces
- Almost 500 on-street parking spots
INTERESTING FACTS:
- Harvard Square is home to the office of the NPR show, “Car Talk.”
- Several movies were shot in Harvard Square, including parts of Good Will Hunting and The Town.
- Singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman played here while she attended Tufts University.
For some terrific pictures of Harvard Square and commentary from famous author John Updike and other well-known Cantabridgians take a look at the book below:
