Wander secret gardens, swim in the Charles River, or play pickleball on a rooftop. Whether you’re looking to relax or work out, there are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors in Cambridge, Massachusetts!
1. Kayak the Charles River.
Paddle past MIT, Boston University, and more iconic Cambridge and Boston sights! Paddle Boston opens for kayak rentals in early May. Reserve boats for a couple hours or the full day. All skill levels are welcome; kids ages 6 and older can even paddle their own kayak.
2. Take in the scenery at Mount Auburn Cemetery.
Spring blooms begin popping up in Mount Auburn Cemetery in April, adding stunning colors across the garden cemetery. See the flowers plus learn about Mount Auburn’s history on a guided tour. For another view of the cemetery, climb to the top of Washington Tower for incredible views of Boston, Harvard University, and the Charles River.
3. Play pickleball at UP.
Serve up some competition at Urban Park (UP) roof garden. In the middle of the tech giants of Kendall Square, aka The Most Innovative Square Mile on the Planet, you’ll find a pickleball court on a rooftop. Take the stairs off Main Street or the elevator in the Kendall Center Green Garage to access the rooftop.
4. Bike around the city.
At just over six square miles, biking is an easy and fun way to get around Cambridge. The Charles River Bike Path runs alongside the Charles River with many Blue Bike stations located near the trail. Kimpton Marlowe Hotel guests can take advantage of complimentary bike rentals during their stay. The Museum of Science and TD Garden in Boston are a quick ride from the hotel!
5. Cruise by Cambridge and Boston’s iconic sites.
Relax on a riverboat cruise! Charles River Boat Company runs cruises on the Charles River May through September. Enjoy a cocktail during a sunset cruise, learn about Cambridge history on an architecture tour, or take in the gorgeous New England foliage during leaf peeping season. Private charters are available too!
6. Explore North Point Park.
Visit this riverside park, find a shady spot, then watch boats and kayakers pass by on the Charles. If you prefer to get in on the action, head to Lynch Family Skatepark. Bikes, skates, and skateboards are welcome at the skatepark.
7. Spend the day at Cambridge Crossing.
With 11 acres of public spaces, there’s always something to do at Cambridge Crossing. Start your day with an outdoor workout session, like a guided yoga class. Then head to the bocce ball court or soccer field. After, check out the calendar to see what free events are on deck. CX runs a summer concert series plus frequently hosts outdoor family movie nights.
8. Uncover Cambridge’s hidden gardens.
Every other year, Friends of the Cambridge Public Library maps out the city’s lesser-known greenspaces on their Secret Gardens of Cambridge tour. Their next tour is set for June 2024. If you can make it, there are still plenty of beautiful gardens to discover around Cambridge, like the tiny gardens scattered across MIT’s campus.
9. Swim in the Charles.
If you’re seeking more unique experiences in Cambridge, don’t miss the Charles River Conservancy’s City Splash in the summer. For one day only, a lucky few can spend the afternoon swimming in the Charles River. Registration is required and opens in early May. Spaces are limited and fill up quickly for this popular event.
10. Have a picnic at Cambridge Common.
On the edge of Harvard Square and Porter Square sits Cambridge Common, a 16 acre park with a playground, walking path, and grassy spots perfect for a picnic. Order Italian sandwiches from family-owned Cardullo’s or grab fresh bagels from Bagelsaurus, named as a top bagel spot in the U.S. by Bon Appétit. You can’t go wrong with any of the local spots nearby!
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