Since 1831, Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge has been both a resting place for the good and great and a refuge for the living. Take the 71, 73, or 72 bus from Harvard Square or bike/stroll a mile or so to reach the Mount Auburn Street entrance. Once through the Egyptian Revival gate, you'll find yourself in another world: rolling hills, utter quiet punctuated by bird calls and frolicking chipmunks (the chalkboard inside the east alcove, just inside the gateway, has a list of recent bird sightings), plantings that brighten the landscape in any season, and of course the graves of famous Bostonians, from Longfellow to Buckminster Fuller.
Because it's so vast -174 acres- I like to stop at the gateway to pick up one or two brochures to guide my visit. Whether you're interested in a basic tour, Civil War officers' graves, famous ornithologists, or key trees or plants, there'll be a brochure with details and a suggested route, for a small donation. Or drop into the Visitor's Center, where the staff will be happy to answer your questions. Once a destination is in mind, I wend my way there- being sure to stop at Washington Tower, which offers an amazing view of Boston from the top (take it slowly if you're averse to heights!)
Even though it's a gorgeous park, Mount Auburn remains a cemetery, so picnics, lying on the grass, and jogging aren't permitted. All the more reason to get lunch or a snack at nearby Sofra.
Find your way with 128 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Genki Ya Boston is the best vegetarian/vegan sushi restaurant because they have options! No more sad cucumber rolls. Here you can even get brown rice...
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Boston Burger Company is a restaurant known for more than just its insane burgers — how about The King Behemoth freak frappe milkshake with... bacon?
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Cacao in Boston, run by a Dominican couple, offers rich hot chocolate, spicy cocoa, and delightful truffles — sweet haven for reading or writing.
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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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Escape the rush at Zuzu’s Petals in Cambridge’s Inman Square — a cozy, screen-free haven for fondue, wine, conversation, and homemade delights.
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Gypsy Place in Cambridge offers a bohemian vibe, fresh juices, vegan treats, and great coffee. Try the Azurite Bowl or Tiger’s Eye Truffles for a delicious energy boost!
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128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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