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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You can’t visit Boston without trying clam chowder and a lobster roll! Red’s Best at Boston Public Market serves up the freshest, most delicious seafood.
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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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Bricco Panetteria is a hidden bakery in Boston’s North End, offering artisan breads, pastries & a cozy, old-world charm. Try their Sfogliatelle!
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Café Sauvage in Back Bay is a tropical-inspired spot blending French cuisine with African flavors. Enjoy their signature Roasted Chicken!
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Sabina Mezcaleria is Boston’s first mezcal bar, offering smoky spirits, bold Mexican flavors, live salsa, and a vibrant Latin jazz brunch & tastings!
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"Eat at Jumbo's" in Boston is a warm/cozy little vegan/veggie paradise! The menu is huge and everything I've tried to date just exceptional...
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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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Parkside Bookshop in Boston’s South End is a cozy, pet-friendly gem with a thoughtfully curated selection, cozy reading nooks, and community events.
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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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128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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