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
Craving seafood in Boston? Head to Red’s Best at Boston Public Market for fresh clam chowder, lobster rolls, and local catch you’ll love!
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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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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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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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Zinneken’s in Harvard Square serves authentic Liege waffles with indulgent toppings. Cozy vibes, rich coffee, and the perfect sweet treat near Harvard University!
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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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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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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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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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Caffé Vittoria, Boston’s first Italian café since 1929, serves rich espresso, tiramisu, and affogato in a charming, old-world setting. A must-visit in the North End—cash only!
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Enjoy fresh pastries from Bakey any morning and take it to the Public Garden. Don’t miss their irresistible chocolate babka and burekas!
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Greystone in Boston’s South End is a charming café with great coffee, fresh pastries, and a no-laptop vibe. Come here for a relaxed morning or lunch break!
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128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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