Rowers on the Charles River in Boston photo courtesy of Bill Ilott on Flickr
To understand Boston’s storied history, a visit to Harvard University is practically required. Having recently celebrated its 375th anniversary, it’s officially the nation’s oldest higher learning institution. The school’s history is so tightly intertwined with that of the city’s that every visitor should spend the better part of a day walking and touring the university grounds.
There’s plenty to see in and around the campus, so allow at least half a day to maximize your sightseeing. Visitors can opt for a self-guided tour or an organized group tour of Harvard led by a current university student. If opting for the former, make sure you don’t miss these five stops along the way:
Stroke John Harvard’s Foot
The first stop for any visitor to Harvard should be the John Harvard statue in Harvard Yard. It’s perhaps the most iconic destination on the entire campus and one of the most curious from a historical perspective. It’s best known as the “Statue of Three Lies” for three simple reasons: it isn’t a likeness of John Harvard; John Harvard was not the founder of Harvard University; and, contrary to the date engraved on the statue, the school was founded in 1636 (not 1638).
Students routinely and somewhat bizarrely stroke the statue’s foot for good luck and you’re welcome to do the same. Just don’t forget to snap a photo or it never happened!
Grab a Bite at Mr. Bartley’s Gourmet Burgers
Located in the heart of the university at Harvard Square, Mr. Bartley’s has been serving fantastic hamburgers, sandwiches and greasy eats since 1960. It’s a great place to feel the pulse of normal campus life as students pack the no-nonsense interior from open to close. Movie buffs will also recognize it as one of the film locations for David Fincher’s 2010 The Social Network.
Stroll the Charles River
Boston’s Charles River offers one of the most scenic and relaxing walks in the entire city. You’ll pass by the River Houses where University students reside. If you happen to visit during the spring or fall, you’ll also have the opportunity to view the school’s crew teams rowing the river.
Witness “Harvard Time” at the Science Center
As one of the largest and busiest buildings on the entire campus, almost every single student will at one time during their four year university stint, take a class at the Science Center. To get a feel for the hustle of daily campus life, check it out during “Harvard Time” – the time when students transition from one class to another. Every day around noon, the area is awash in students hurrying off to their next class.
Stop by the COOP
No trip to Harvard is complete without a cheeky souvenir. Before you leave, check out the on-campus Harvard COOP for a selection of university swag so you can prove that your trip actually happened.
- By Mike Richard
Things to See When Visiting Harvard University from Boston Things to Do