Many people complain that Harvard Square has become too corporate and mall-like in recent decades. Those people should browse in the depths of Harvard Book Store until they feel better. The Boston area is blessed with an unusual number of independent bookstores, and Harvard Book Store vies with the Brookline Booksmith for most impressive selection and local events schedule. There are author talks almost every night, most in-store but with the more prominent ones (Margaret Atwood, Jonathan Lethem) taking place in a nearby Unitarian church or in the Brattle Theatre. Like the store's in-house bestsellers list and their emphasis on books by local authors, these events foster a great sense of community.
I like to start visits in the basement, which is jam-packed with used and remainder books. Even if there's nothing in particular I'm looking for, there's likely to be a well priced recent novel, unusual monograph on art, or oddball history book that I have to leave with. There's also a strong selection of cookbooks, both used/remaindered and new. Upstairs, such academic disciplines as philosophy and history are especially well represented- a reminder of the many professors and students among the loyal clientele.
Don't see what you want on the shelves? There is also on-demand printing available (via Paige M. Gutenborg, the bookprinting robot) in case you just have to get that particular selection right away. The monster of a machine in the back that performs this task is also worth a look even if you don't.
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"Christina's Ice Cream" is a post-dinner of mid-afternoon must in Boston. There are 50 flavors of ice cream. I like the chocolate and ginger molasses.
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"Rick Walker’s" is like a portal into another world. It's my go to sources in Boston for Western shirts, vintage Levis, secondhand belts & cowboy hats.
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"Bobby From Boston" is a vintage menswear shop offering a range of leather jackets, new old stock blue jeans, vests and many more that a gentleman needs...
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The "Boston Athenaeum" is an independent library praised for its architecture, history and collection. Reading by the windows on a sunny day? My bliss.
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Don’t miss Schlesinger Library on Harvard’s campus, a hidden gem in Boston, for an enriching experience of women’s works. Look for original manuscripts!
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Union Park, located near downtown, was designed in the mid-19th century, inspired by English-style residential squares. Come for a tranquil retreat!
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Sip of Joy, a cozy family-run café in South End, blends Turkish and American flavors, offering flawless coffee, pastries, and a peaceful retreat.
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Arlington Street Church in Boston houses the world's largest themed collection of Tiffany stained glass windows — an unmistakeble artistic marvel.
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The Harvard Museum of Natural History's Glass Flowers exhibit showcases 4,300 stunning glass plant models, crafted by the Blaschkas between 1887 and 1936.
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Step into Boston’s Puppet Free Library on Newbury Street, where over 200 vibrant puppets await, spreading joy through lending since 1976.
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Rouvalis Flowers in Beacon Hill charms every season with stunning blooms, dried arrangements, and gifts — perfect for adding beauty to any Boston day.
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120 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 120 Insider Tips from our local Spotters