Best 8 Places to Be Outdoor in Cambridge

Best 8 Places to Be Outdoor in Cambridge

  • Sandrine Deschaux
  • 05/8/23

Cambridge, Massachusetts, has an array of excellent places to explore. An aspect of the area that is underestimated, however, is its outdoor venues and experiences. People who crave time spent outdoors love that Cambridge has so many opportunities for recreational fun. If you are interested in Cambridge real estate and enjoy the outdoors, read on to find our recommendations on the best outdoor spaces in Cambridge.

Cambridge Common

Waterhouse St & Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA
 
With historical roots that date back to the 18th century, Cambridge Common is a beloved treasure to its residents. The Common previously served as a training area for troops during the Revolutionary War and was the site of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.
 
Today, Cambridge Common serves as a haven of relaxation and fun for members of the community. It has lots of green space for picnicking or playing games during warm months, along with a playground and a plaque commemorating its historical significance. Typically, Cambridge Common hosts concerts and festivals throughout the year. It is an excellent place to soak up the sun and escape the high energy of city life.

Charles River Esplanade

Charles River, Esplanade, Boston, MA
 
Boston is renowned for its Charles River Esplanade, an extensive riverfront park only a short drive from Cambridge. This park is always bustling during the spring and summer months, offering people a variety of activities. Many choose to kayak or canoe in the river itself, while others picnic or read a book on the park’s grassy areas. Families also enjoy visiting the park, as it is home to three different playgrounds with various attractions and features.
 
The Esplanade has a long trail that people can walk, bike, or run along for exercise. In addition, the park hosts many different events. Residents love the annual Esplanade 5K, a running fundraiser geared toward helping charitable organizations and causes. The Esplanade’s most popular activity is the Fourth of July Day Celebration, in which people travel from all over to watch fireworks over the river. It is truly a dreamlike experience.

Harvard Square

Brattle St, Cambridge, MA
 
Known for its intellectual atmosphere, Harvard Square is a perfect place to spend your time outdoors. Of course, one of its main attractions is the iconic Harvard University; however, Harvard Square has walkable streets and sidewalks that lead to many fun shops and restaurants. You can find local coffee shops, romantic bookstores, and charming cinemas in the Square, as well as several incredible eateries boasting an array of diverse, flavor-packed cuisines.
 
You will want to visit Harvard Square on a day when the sun is shining to enjoy a meal outdoors or partake in window shopping. As you meander along the square, you may come across skilled street performers hosting talent shows, providing free, lively, and fun entertainment.

The Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University

125 Arborway, Boston, MA
 
Walking through the campus of Harvard University is already an inherently picturesque experience, providing breathtaking views of landscaped greens and historic buildings. However, once you step into the Arnold Arboretum, you will be whisked away into a world of ethereal beauty. The arboretum is an outdoor museum that showcases various different plants, flowers, and trees to the public.
 
The Arnold Arboretum hosts many events throughout the year, including art shows and wildlife tracking experiences. All of these events are free, as well as public tours that are offered periodically throughout the week. This experience is a good idea for anyone who enjoys taking in the unique beauty of the outdoors in a refined, elegant fashion.

Danehy Park

99 Sherman St, Cambridge, MA
 
Danehy Park is a quiet sanctuary in Cambridge. The park has various paths open to runners, joggers, and walkers in the Cambridge community. The park is more refined and not as busy as other Boston parks, thus offering a tranquil ambiance ideal for self-reflecting in nature. A visit to Danehy Park is a peaceful respite from city life, and guests will often find children playing in verdant fields and dogs being walked by their owners.

Fresh Pond Golf Course

691 Huron Ave, Cambridge, MA
 
One of the best-known golf courses in all of Massachusetts is Fresh Pond Golf Course. This nine-hole course is located along the Fresh Pond Reservation. This course is open to the public; however, season passes sell out quickly, so you’ll need to act fast if you want to access the best tee times.
 
Fresh Pond Golf Course also boasts various tournaments throughout the year, including the Hot Dog Open and the Stars and Stripes Tournament. Spending a day out on the course is an optimal way to spend time outdoors.

Fenway Park

4 Jersey St, Boston, MA
 
Residents of Cambridge adore attending America’s oldest and most beloved major league baseball park! Home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is the ultimate destination for sports fans. Besides cheering their favorite team on to victory, guests love Fenway Park for its iconic Fenway Frank hotdogs, which come in various fixings, soft serve ice cream, classic peanuts, and the infamous cracker jacks. Cambridge locals luckily have easy access to Fenway Park through the T’s green line. After the game, many fans head to the area’s local bars to grab a drink and enjoy classic bar fare.

Minuteman Bikeway

Arlington, MA
 
Bikers will love gliding along Cambridge’s Minuteman Bikeway. The path extends over 10 miles and goes through various towns around Cambridge. This trail is specifically designed for bikers of all ages. As you bike your way along the path, you’ll come across numerous scenic views and Massachusetts’s diverse flora and fauna.

Work with us!

Cambridge is a sought-after destination for many, and it’s easy to see why more and more buyers are interested in purchasing real estate in this charming, thriving community. If you are interested in viewing homes for sale in Cambridge or have questions about the home-buying process, contact real estate agent Sandrine Deschaux today.




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