10 SUMMERTIME ACTIVITIES IN CAMBRIDGE
Wed July 3, 2024
From kayaking on the Charles River to a free jazz music festival, here are 10 things to do this summer in Cambridge!
1. Grab a scoop from a local ice cream shop.
Sprinkle in sweet treats on your visit to Cambridge! Try Honeycomb Creamery for homemade ice cream tacos, Toscanini’s for award-winning scoops (named the Best in Boston by Boston Magazine), or Christina’s for unique flavors like turmeric chai latte. You’ll satisfy your sweet tooth no matter where you choose!
2. Watch fireworks from the Charles River.
Where better to watch Boston’s Fourth of July fireworks than from the Charles River? Rent a kayak from Paddle Boston then head to the designated viewing area, a five minute paddle from their boat launch, for a spectacular view of the show. Space is limited for this popular July 4th activity.
3. Try local eats at a food festival.
Feast on Jamaican jerk dishes during Boston JerkFest, held annually at the Harvard Athletic Complex. The two-day event kicks off with a rum and brew tasting night followed by a family-friendly Caribbean-style food and music festival. Be sure to check out the Seafood Throwdown and Jerk Cook-off Competitions too!
4. Climb Washington Tower at Mount Auburn Cemetery.
Open seasonally, Washington Tower is a must during your summer vacation in Cambridge! Climb the 96 steps for unmatched views of Cambridge, Boston, and the Charles River. Admission to Mount Auburn Cemetery is always free.
5. Attend the free Cambridge Jazz Festival.
An impressive lineup of jazz artists, from emerging talents to GRAMMY-winning musicians, take the stage at Cambridge Jazz Festival. During the festival, stop by the pop-up Jazz Museum to discover more about the musical genre. This two-day fest at Danehy Park is free for all.
6. Enjoy live music at CX Summer Nights.
Catch more free concerts at CX Summer Nights! The free, monthly series returns to Cambridge Crossing June–August. All ages are invited to hang out in their greenspaces for live music, lawn games, and food trucks.
7. Enjoy dinner and a view.
Summer is the perfect time to dine outdoors! Relax on the rooftops of Mex Taqueria & Bar or 907 Main’s Saigon Babylon. For stunning views of the Boston skyline, head to one of Royal Sonesta Boston’s two riverside restaurants, ArtBar and Monteverdi.
8. Go on a sightseeing cruise.
A visit to Cambridge isn’t complete without seeing the sights from the Charles River. Learn about Cambridge and Boston’s iconic landmarks on an architecture cruise, or take in the sunset on an evening cocktail cruise. Charles River Boat Company’s tours depart daily behind CambridgeSide.
9. Tour Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters.
From late May to late October, Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters welcomes visitors for guided tours. The historic house was once the headquarters of General George Washington and was later home to poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Learn about the former residents on one of several tours given by National Park Service Rangers.
10. Dine in Cambridge during Dine Out Boston.
In August, take advantage of meal deals at Cambridge restaurants for Dine Out Boston. You’ll find discounted, pre-fixe lunch and dinner menus at places like Sumiao Hunan Kitchen and Nubar at the Sheraton Commander Hotel. See the growing list of participating spots here.
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