Things to Do in Cambridge, MA
Descriptions of Porter, Harvard, Central, and Kendall Squares
This mid-sized metropolis contains a number of (vaguely) square-shaped hot spots, each brimming with eateries, boutiques, bookstores, theaters, museums and more. Four of Cambridge's most interesting squares are sprinkled diagonally from north to south, ending near the deep blue Charles River and the shimmering cityscape of Boston. Sutured together by one of the oldest subway lines in the world, these easily accessible areas provide fun-filled ways to experience the best that Cambridge has to offer.
Porter Square
If you're looking for a delectable dining experience amongst locals, Porter is your place. This small square attracts big appetites. The area's restaurants feature all kinds of cuisine, from Ethiopian to Italian. Most of these eateries have a relaxed atmosphere and are reasonably priced. Sugar & Spice, a savory Thai place, and The Elephant Walk, an award-winning French and Cambodian restaurant, are two neighborhood favorites. For post-dinner entertainment, head over to Toad, a cozy (i.e. tiny), energetic bar with live music.
Harvard Square
Sharing its name with the prestigious university it abuts, Harvard Square is a place where funky meets refined. Here you will see alternative music and anime retailers sandwiched between elegant clothing boutiques and antique map stores. Film buffs can catch classic movies at the Brattle Theatre, while art addicts can explore Harvard University's Fogg, Busch-Reisinger, and Arthur M. Sackler art museums. The neighborhood is home to Harvard Book Store, a top-notch, independent bookseller, which continually sponsors readings by world-famous authors. If you are hit by sudden pangs of hunger, head over to Rialto, a classy (and pricey) eatery in The Charles Hotel or go to Crazy Dough's for a nacho pizza.
Central Square
Central may not be the most attractive of Cambridge's squares, but it is certainly one of the most dynamic. People from all walks of life bustle up and down the area's wide main drag, an avenue jam-packed with offbeat boutiques, chain stores, and ethnic food restaurants. One popular Central Square hangout is 1369, a small coffee house that serves up sweetly aromatic beverages and a spirited vibe. A few blocks down from 1369 is the Dance Complex, a drop-in dance studio where you can take everything from afro-fusion to ballet for just about $12 a class. After an invigorating workout, take your taste buds for dinner at Tavern in the Square or ZuZu.
Kendall Square
This square lies just outside the campus of MIT. Though dominated by non-descript technology firms, Kendall has charming touches of eccentricity. On one edge of the square you will find The Garment District, an unconventional department store containing rows upon rows of vintage clothing. For some foreign flavor, head over to the Kendall Square Cinema, a comfy theater showing international films. Another attraction just outside the square is the MIT Museum, whose collections include holograms, stroboscopes, and a sociable robot.
Note: The Harvard Art Museum, which is comprised of the Fogg, Busch-Reisinger, and Arthur M. Sackler art museums, is undergoing renovations during the spring and summer of 2008. Certain exhibits will still be on view at a temporary location. Go to http://www.artmuseums.harvard.edu/home/index.html for more details.
