Harvard Art Museums: A Complete Visitor’s Guide

Nestled in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Harvard Art Museums offer an extraordinary window into the world of fine art. As one of the oldest and most prestigious university art museums in the United States, it is a cultural treasure trove for art lovers and history buffs. Its unparalleled collections and immersive exhibits invite visitors to journey through centuries of human creativity and innovation. Whether you’re a student, a traveler, or a seasoned art connoisseur, the Harvard Art Museums promise an unforgettable experience.

Location and How to Get There

The Harvard Art Museums are located at 32 Quincy Street, Cambridge, MA, a short stroll from Harvard Yard in the bustling Harvard Square area. The museums are easily accessible whether you’re arriving by public transportation, car, or even on foot.

If you use Boston’s efficient MBTA system, take the Red Line to Harvard Station, a 5–10 minute walk from the museums. From the station, follow the vibrant streets of Harvard Square, filled with local coffee shops and bookstores, until you reach the museum’s elegant modernist facade.

For drivers, several nearby parking garages, including the Harvard Square Parking Garage and Church Street Lot, are just a few blocks away. While parking in Cambridge can be challenging, arriving early in the morning can help secure a spot.

Cyclists will be delighted to know that Cambridge is a bike-friendly city. Ample bike racks are available outside the museum, and Bluebikes, a local bike-sharing program, has docking stations nearby.

For those flying into Boston Logan International Airport, the museums are about a 25-minute drive, or you can take a combination of the Silver Line bus and the Red Line subway to Harvard Square.

History of Harvard Art Museums

The Harvard Art Museums have a history dating back to 1895 when the Fogg Museum was first established as Harvard University’s original art collection. Over the decades, the museum expanded, acquiring the Busch-Reisinger Museum in 1903, which focused on German and Northern European art, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum in 1985, known for its remarkable Asian, Islamic, and Mediterranean collections. These three institutions merged to form what we now know as the Harvard Art Museums.

In 2014, the museums underwent a transformative renovation and reopened under a stunning design by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano. Piano’s sleek glass-and-brick structure brought all three museums under one roof, seamlessly blending contemporary design with the original historic elements. Today, the museums boast a collection of over 250,000 works of art from ancient to modern times. They serve as a research hub for scholars and an inspiring destination for art enthusiasts worldwide.

What to See at Harvard Art Museums

The Harvard Art Museums feature an impressive range of collections and exhibits that cater to diverse interests. Here’s what you absolutely shouldn’t miss:

• European and American Art: Admire masterworks from legendary artists like Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Monet. The 19th and 20th-century European paintings collection is exceptionally breathtaking, showcasing pivotal moments in art history.
• Ancient and Asian Art: Explore treasures from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome alongside stunning pieces from Asia, including Chinese calligraphy, Japanese woodblock prints, and Indian sculptures. The museum’s Buddhist art collection is a serene and captivating experience.
• German Expressionism and Bauhaus Art: At the Busch-Reisinger Museum’s dedicated spaces, you’ll find striking works of German modernism, including art from the Bauhaus movement and Expressionist paintings.
• The Art Study Center: For an interactive experience, visit the Art Study Center, where visitors can request access to works not displayed in the galleries. This space also features educational resources and workshops.
• Special Exhibits: The Harvard Art Museums frequently host rotating exhibitions that spotlight contemporary artists or delve into specific themes. Check their schedule in advance to see what’s on during your visit.

Don’t forget to pause in the museum’s elegant courtyard, designed as a serene space to reflect on the art you’ve just seen. Grab a coffee at the onsite café to complete your experience.

Nearby Attractions and Landmarks

Harvard Art Museums are situated in one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in the Boston area, offering plenty to explore before or after your visit. Here are some nearby attractions:

• Harvard Yard: Just steps away, this iconic green space is the historic heart of Harvard University. Stroll through its picturesque pathways and admire landmarks like the Widener Library and the John Harvard statue.
• Harvard Square: This bustling area has eclectic shops, local restaurants, and street performers. It’s the perfect spot for a post-museum meal or coffee break.
• Harvard Museum of Natural History: Located less than a 10-minute walk away, this family-friendly museum features incredible exhibits like the famous Glass Flowers and dinosaur skeletons.
• Charles River Esplanade: If the weather is nice, take a scenic walk along the Charles River, which offers stunning views of Boston’s skyline.
• Mount Auburn Cemetery: A 20-minute walk or a short drive away, this serene and historic cemetery doubles as an arboretum with beautiful walking paths and views from Washington Tower.
• Longfellow House–Washington’s Headquarters: A National Historic Site and former home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, this landmark is just a mile away and offers guided tours and fascinating history.

With so much to see and do, the Harvard Art Museums and their surrounding areas promise a rich and fulfilling experience, blending art, history, and the vibrant spirit of Cambridge.