Cambridge isn’t just a university town; it’s a hub of innovation, history, and culture that makes for fantastic touring opportunities. Walking through Harvard Yard or MIT’s tech campuses reveals centuries of educational excellence and groundbreaking research. We particularly enjoy the Illustrious Schools: Group Tour of MIT And Harvard for its exclusive access and in-depth stories that go beyond a typical campus visit—the perfect way to appreciate what makes these institutions so special. Whether it’s seeing the Harvard Bridge or learning about MIT’s quirky traditions, these tours offer a deep dive into Cambridge’s academic heart. Other experiences like food tours and art walks also showcase the city’s local flavor and creativity, making this list a well-rounded collection of the best ways to explore.
Quick Overview
Cambridge’s tours cover a broad spectrum—from guided campus walks and self-guided explorations to culinary adventures and interactive scavenger hunts.
For a comprehensive college experience, check out the Group Tour of MIT and Harvard, which offers detailed access and expert narration. If you prefer a shorter, more casual visit, the Public MIT Campus Guided Walking Tour provides a quick but engaging overview. Food lovers will enjoy the Harvard Square Donut Adventure, while art enthusiasts may like the Central Square Cambridge Food and Mural Arts Guided Walking Tour. For those seeking interactive fun, scavenger hunts and ghost walks add a playful twist to Cambridge’s historic streets.
1. Illustrious Schools: Group Tour of MIT And Harvard
At number 1, this 3.5-hour guided tour offers an in-depth look at MIT and Harvard, two of the world’s most esteemed universities. It’s perfect for those who want insider access, including visits to secret off-limits areas and iconic landmarks like the MIT Media Lab and the Harvard Dome. The tour delves into whimsical traditions, historic moments, and highlights famous alumni such as Mitt Romney and Julia Child. The guide takes you across the Harvard Bridge for a stunning photo of the Boston skyline, and you’ll see the Green Building by I.M. Pei. Reviewers love the thoughtful planning and engaging stories, especially the “hack” stories from MIT and the Civil War connection to Harvard. This tour is suited for those who want a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes perspective on these storied institutions.
Bottom line: It’s a rich, detailed experience for those who truly want to understand what makes Harvard and MIT tick.
2. Public MIT Campus Guided Walking Tour
For around $22, the one-hour and ten-minute Public MIT Campus Guided Walking Tour offers a quick yet lively introduction to MIT’s innovative campus. The tour is student-led, providing insights into MIT’s history, student life, and cutting-edge projects. You’ll see highlights like the Great Dome and the Infinite Corridor, and learn about MIT’s role in the tech boom. The guides share fun stories, like the Tetris prank and police car on the dome, making the campus’s architectural quirks memorable. Reviewers mention this tour as friendly and enthusiastic and appreciate being able to ask questions during a private experience. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to capture the essence of MIT’s spirit of innovation.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly way to get an insider’s look at one of the world’s most famous tech campuses.
3. Harvard Square Donut Adventure
Number 3 on our list is a sweet way to explore Harvard Square. This 1.5 to 2-hour Donut Adventure takes you to local donut shops that are often overlooked. Along the way, your guide shares Harvard’s history and points out landmarks like John Harvard’s statue. The tour includes samples at three different shops, making it a tasty, casual experience perfect for foodies or those wanting to combine sightseeing with treats. The small-group size (max 15) keeps things intimate, and you’ll get a deeper appreciation of the neighborhood’s culinary scene. Reviewers love the friendly guide and the chance to try different donuts while discovering Harvard Square’s stories.
Bottom line: Ideal for food lovers wanting a fun, laid-back tour with sweet rewards.
4. Boston – Harvard & Cambridge Walking Food Tour
This 3-hour walking tour is perfect for foodies looking to explore Boston’s and Cambridge’s culinary side. It combines visits to Harvard Square and other local hotspots, with tastings of Greek and Latin cuisine, famous Harvard pizza, and tiki snacks. You’ll learn about notable residents like Bill Gates and Julia Child, all while strolling through historic areas. The tour visits notable landmarks like Harvard Yard and the Harvard Lampoon, blending history with cuisine. With rave reviews, the tour’s well-paced itinerary and variety of samples make it a compelling choice for foodies wanting a more comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: A flavorful, informative tour for those who want a food-centric exploration of Cambridge’s iconic spots.
5. Harvard Square Cambridge Food & Walking Tour
For those interested in local eats and Harvard’s storied past, this 2-hour tour offers a delicious dive into Harvard Square’s culinary scene. You’ll sample traditional Greek and Latin dishes, and enjoy pizza beloved by Mark Zuckerberg. The tour also covers Harvard’s history, providing context as you nibble your way around. It’s ideal for foodies wanting a smaller, more intimate experience. The guide’s storytelling makes the food taste even better, despite the limited reviews. The tour’s focus on authentic local food makes it stand out.
Bottom line: Great for small groups seeking a tasty, history-filled walk.
6. Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour
Number 6 offers a 3-hour exploration of Union Square in Somerville, a neighborhood known for its creative spirit and diverse food scene. You’ll visit 5 or 6 restaurants, sampling local specialties like marshmallow fluff, ethnic bites, and independent favorites. The tour also highlights local history, including the creation of marshmallow fluff and the first American flag. It’s perfect for adventurous eaters who want to experience a neighborhood beyond Cambridge’s tourist spots. Reviewers mention the friendly guide and the delicious tastings even in rainy weather. The tour is suitable for most dietary restrictions and offers a personalized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for food explorers keen to discover Somerville’s lively food scene.
7. Harvard Square Chocolate Tour
Sweet teeth will appreciate the 1.5-hour Chocolate Tour that combines Cambridge history with indulgent tastings. Meeting in Harvard Square, you’ll enjoy locally-made ice cream, sip chocolate tea, and browse a candy shop. The tour is small (max 15), ensuring a personal experience as you learn about Harvard’s history and sample various chocolates. It’s a delightful way to combine historical insights with sweet treats. Reviewers note the friendly guides and the generous samples that make this a standout experience for chocolate lovers.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a sweet, relaxed exploration of Harvard Square.
8. Harvard’s Secret Society: The Porcelain Club Puzzle Quest
This self-guided puzzle adventure invites you to explore Harvard Yard without a guide. Using an app, you solve clues and riddles at landmarks like Widener Library and the Harvard Lampoon. It’s a fun, interactive way to learn about Harvard’s secrets while avoiding crowds. Perfect for independent travelers or families, it allows you to go at your own pace and take breaks whenever needed. Reviews praise the engaging puzzles and easy app setup. It’s especially good if you enjoy brain teasers and want a flexible, self-paced experience.
Bottom line: An entertaining option for interactive explorers who prefer to learn on their own.
9. Central Square Cambridge Food and Mural Arts Guided Walking Tour
Number 9 combines art and food in a 2.5-hour tour of Central Square. You’ll explore the area’s impressive murals, Graffiti Alley, and enjoy tastings from local eateries. It’s a great pick for art lovers who want to see public murals and learn about the artists behind them. The food stops feature diverse local cuisine, adding a flavorful layer to the artistic experience. While reviews are limited, the focus on murals and street art makes this tour stand out for visual exploration coupled with tasty bites.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in urban art and local food.
$100.00 per person
10. A Self-Guided Harvard University Walking Tour
This self-guided tour offers an affordable ($11.99) way to explore Harvard at your own pace. Starting at Harvard Square, you’ll walk past historic buildings like Wadsworth Hall and the Widener Library, learning about Harvard’s founding and** notable alumni**. The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for independent travelers who prefer to skip group tours. It’s a practical option for those on a budget who want a personalized experience without sacrificing detail. Reviewers comment on the easy-to-use app and the comprehensive route.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, flexible way to see Harvard without the crowds.
$11.99 per person
11. Boston’s Original Dumpling Party // Cambridge
Number 11 is a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to make mouthwatering dumplings while uncovering Chinese and Taiwanese food traditions. Held in the Windsor Inn, this 3-hour class includes rolling, stuffing, and folding 4-5 styles of dumplings, plus tasting the results. It’s ideal for foodies, families, or couples looking for a interactive culinary experience. The class even allows BYOB and offers a tea bar, adding to the fun. Reviewers mention the informative instruction and the delicious food. This tour offers hands-on learning and a memorable meal in an authentic setting.
Bottom line: Best suited for interactive food lovers seeking a cultural cooking experience.
$150.00 per person
12. Creative Cambridge Scavenger Hunt
Number 12 offers a unique, interactive adventure using a remote host via your phone. This scavenger hunt combines touring, detective work, and social challenges across Cambridge’s streets. It’s ideal for groups or families who want a custom, engaging experience. The live host provides hints and encouragement, making it flexible and fun for all ages. The hunt covers historical landmarks, public art, and quirky sites, making it a playful way to see the city. Reviews highlight the original format and personalized attention.
Bottom line: Perfect for tech-savvy explorers or groups looking for a different kind of tour.
$29.00 per person
13. Harvard Square and University Smartphone Guided Audio Walking
This self-guided audio walk ($9.75) takes you through Harvard Square and Harvard Yard, with on-demand narration about Harvard’s founding, notable buildings, and historical figures. It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to see the university independently. The location-aware app plays automatically as you walk, making it a hands-free experience. Reviewers appreciate the detailed commentary and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. It’s suitable for solo travelers or anyone preferring self-led exploration.
Bottom line: An economical, flexible option for independent sightseeing.
$9.75 per person
14. Harvard University Scavenger Hunt and Escape Game
Number 14 offers a self-guided, interactive Scavenger Hunt and Escape Game. It combines puzzles, clues, and exploration of Harvard’s landmarks, making it ideal for families or groups wanting a fun challenge. Using an app, you can go at your own pace, with built-in hints to avoid getting stuck. The game covers key sites like John Harvard’s statue and Holden Chapel, making learning about Harvard engaging and playful. Reviewers praise its easy setup and entertaining puzzles.
Bottom line: A lively, game-based way to explore Harvard for those who love puzzles and interactive experiences.
$7.00 per person
15. Harvard University Historic Scavenger Hunt
Number 15 is a trivia-based app-led hunt through Harvard Yard. It challenges you with brain teasers at sites like Widener Library and the Porcellian Club. It’s perfect for competitive travelers or families wanting an educational game. The self-guided format allows flexible pacing, and the interactive questions make the history come alive. Reviewers mention the fun, challenge, and learning it offers. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer digital, gamified tours.
Bottom line: Best suited for puzzle enthusiasts or competitive groups.
$14.99 per person
16. Harvard’s Haunts Solo Smart Phone Guided App Ghost Walking Tour
Finally, for those interested in Cambridge’s spooky side, this self-guided ghost walk uses an app to tell eerie stories across Harvard’s historic sites. Starting outside Wadworth House, you’ll hear about spirits and dark legends. The 50-minute to 1-hour tour is perfect for solo adventurers, history lovers, and ghost enthusiasts. The audio narration with spooky music creates a fun, atmospheric experience. Reviewers appreciate the easy-to-use app and the chilling stories.
Bottom line: Ideal for solo travelers seeking a spooky, atmospheric tour in Harvard’s historic grounds.
$7.75 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Cambridge, consider your budget—from self-guided options like the Harvard Self-Guided Tour to full-day Illustrious Schools Tours. Think about your interests: history buffs might prefer the Harvard Ghost Walk, food lovers could opt for the Harvard Square Donut Adventure, and art enthusiasts might enjoy the Mural Arts Tour.
Timing also matters: book early during peak seasons, especially for popular experiences like the Harvard Chocolate Tour, and consider weather — outdoor walks are best in mild conditions.
Final Thoughts
Cambridge offers an impressive variety of tours tailored to different interests and schedules. If you’re keen on deep university insights, the Illustrious Schools tour stands out, while the Harvard Donut Adventure makes for a sweeter, lighter outing. For art lovers, the mural walk adds color and creativity, and the interactive scavenger hunts inject some fun into your exploration.
No matter your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences—Cambridge’s rich academic and cultural landscape is waiting to be discovered.