Harvard University: Exploring America’s Most Iconic Campus

Founded in 1636, Harvard University is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States and one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance, Harvard offers visitors an experience that goes far beyond academics. Whether you’re a prospective student, history buff, or curious traveler, visiting Harvard is like stepping into a living museum of American history and intellectual achievement.

Location and How to Get There

Harvard University is in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just across the Charles River from Boston. The main campus, known as Harvard Yard, is easily accessible and central to Cambridge, a lively city with a rich academic and cultural heritage of its own.

Getting to Harvard by Public Transit: The most convenient way to reach Harvard University from downtown Boston is by using the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), commonly called “the T.” Take the Red Line subway to the Harvard Square station, which drops you off directly adjacent to Harvard Yard. From there, the university’s iconic gates are just a short walk away. The Red Line also connects to other major neighborhoods and landmarks in Boston, making it a quick and affordable option for visitors.

Driving to Harvard: If you’re driving, be aware that parking in Cambridge can be limited and often expensive. There are a few public parking garages near Harvard Square, including the Harvard Square Parking Garage and University Place Garage. However, parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early or considering alternative transportation is advisable.

From Boston Logan Airport: For visitors flying into Boston Logan International Airport, Harvard is only about 6 miles away. You can reach the campus by taking a taxi, rideshare, or public transit. From the airport, take the Silver Line bus to South Station, where you can transfer to the Red Line towards Alewife and exit at Harvard Square. This journey typically takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and wait times.

Harvard’s central location and easy accessibility make it an ideal stop for anyone visiting the Greater Boston area.

History of Harvard University

Harvard University was established in 1636 by a vote of the Great and General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, making it the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Originally founded to train clergy, the college was named after its first benefactor, John Harvard, a young minister who left his library and half his estate to the institution upon his death in 1638. His legacy is memorialized in the famous John Harvard statue in Harvard Yard, often referred to as the “Statue of Three Lies” due to several historical inaccuracies inscribed on it.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Harvard grew from a small school serving the local Puritan community to a major educational institution. By the time of the American Revolution, it was a prominent fixture in the colonies, producing graduates who would play important roles in American history, including John Adams, John Hancock, and Samuel Adams.

The 19th century marked a period of significant expansion and modernization, especially under the leadership of President Charles William Eliot. Under Eliot’s tenure from 1869 to 1909, Harvard became a truly modern university, expanding its curriculum to include a variety of fields beyond theology and the classics and creating professional schools such as the Harvard Law School and Harvard Medical School.

Today, Harvard is comprised of ten academic faculties and the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study. It has a global reputation for academic excellence, pioneering research, and a long list of notable alumni, including eight U.S. presidents, numerous foreign heads of state, and dozens of Nobel laureates. Harvard’s history is closely intertwined with American history, and a visit to the campus offers a unique glimpse into the nation’s intellectual and cultural heritage.

What to Do at Harvard University

Visiting Harvard University offers more than just a stroll through a historic campus. Here are some of the must-see sights and activities that make a trip to Harvard truly memorable:

1. Explore Harvard Yard: The heart of Harvard’s campus, Harvard Yard is an open, grassy area surrounded by some of the oldest buildings on campus. Take a moment to visit Massachusetts Hall, the oldest surviving building at Harvard (built-in 1720), and Widener Library, the centerpiece of Harvard’s vast library system. Harvard Yard is a picturesque space perfect for walking, taking photos, and enjoying the college atmosphere.

2. Visit the Harvard Art Museums: There are three museums in one: Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum, and Arthur M. Sackler Museum. The Harvard Art Museum houses a vast art collection from ancient to modern times. Highlights include works by European masters, Asian artifacts, and American art. Admission is affordable, and the museums offer an excellent opportunity to see world-class art in an intimate setting.

3. Stop by the Harvard Museum of Natural History: A favorite among families and science enthusiasts, the Harvard Museum of Natural History showcases an impressive array of exhibits, including the world-famous Glass Flowers collection of meticulously crafted glass models of plant species that look strikingly real. The museum also includes fascinating minerals, gemstones, and dinosaur skeletons exhibits.

4. Take a Student-Led Tour: Harvard’s official Hahvahd Tour is a great way to experience the campus through the eyes of a current student. These informative and humorous tours offer insights into Harvard’s history, student life, and lesser-known campus secrets. Tours can be booked online, and they generally last about an hour.

5. Stop at the John Harvard Statue: Located in Harvard Yard, this statue is one of the most photographed spots on campus. Known as the “Statue of Three Lies,” it bears an inscription with several inaccuracies, adding to its intrigue. Legend has it that rubbing John Harvard’s shoe brings good luck, though this is more a myth than a guarantee!

6. Visit Memorial Church: Built to honor Harvard alumni who died in World War I, Memorial Church is a beautiful building located in the Yard. It often hosts concerts and events, and visitors can stop by and admire its serene, reflective interior.

Nearby Attractions and Landmarks

After exploring Harvard’s historic campus, you’ll find plenty of nearby attractions and landmarks that make Cambridge and the surrounding area even more captivating:

1. Harvard Square: Just outside Harvard Yard, Harvard Square is a lively hub filled with shops, cafes, and bookstores. It’s home to iconic spots like The Harvard Book Store and The Coop, where you can pick up Harvard memorabilia or browse through an extensive collection of books. Street musicians, performers, and an eclectic crowd add to the vibrant atmosphere.

2. Charles River Esplanade: A short walk from Harvard, the Charles River Esplanade is perfect for a stroll or a scenic jog along the river. The esplanade offers stunning views of the Boston skyline and is especially beautiful at sunset. You can even rent kayaks or paddleboards in the warmer months to enjoy the river up close.

3. MIT Campus: Just a short distance from Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is another prestigious university with a fascinating campus. Its Stata Center, designed by architect Frank Gehry, is a sight to behold, and the MIT Museum offers interactive exhibits on science, technology, and robotics.

4. Longfellow House–Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site: Located a short walk from Harvard, this historic home once served as the headquarters of George Washington during the Siege of Boston. Later, it became the home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The site is open to the public and offers a unique glimpse into Revolutionary War history and 19th-century American literature.

5. Mount Auburn Cemetery: For those interested in peaceful walks, Mount Auburn Cemetery is a serene, beautifully landscaped cemetery where several notable figures are buried. It’s an excellent spot for bird-watching, photography, or simply taking in the tranquility of this historic place.

Exploring Harvard University and its surroundings provides an immersive experience in American history, culture, and education. Whether wandering through Harvard Yard or venturing out to the surrounding Cambridge neighborhoods, this area is full of enriching activities that will make any trip to Boston unforgettable.