A Friendly Inn at Harvard: Nestled in the historic heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, A Friendly Inn at Harvard stands as a welcoming retreat for visitors to one of the world’s most renowned academic hubs—Harvard University. Offering a balance of comfort, affordability, and traditional charm, the inn provides an ideal stay for students, parents, scholars, and tourists visiting the Harvard area.
Whether you are attending a university event, exploring Boston’s cultural treasures, or simply seeking a peaceful place to rest near Harvard Square, A Friendly Inn at Harvard is an excellent choice. This article explores everything you need to know about the inn—its location, history, amenities, nearby attractions, and why it continues to be a favorite among travelers.
Overview: What Is A Friendly Inn at Harvard?
A Friendly Inn at Harvard is a small, cozy bed-and-breakfast-style lodging located just steps away from Harvard University and Harvard Square. The inn offers guests an intimate and quiet atmosphere while being close to Cambridge’s lively restaurants, shops, museums, and public transportation.
This independent inn is particularly popular with visitors attending Harvard graduations, lectures, and reunions, as well as those exploring nearby academic institutions such as MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and Lesley University.
The inn is well-known for its friendly staff, clean accommodations, and a homelike environment that makes every guest feel welcome.
Location and Accessibility
Address:
A Friendly Inn at Harvard
1673 Cambridge Street,
Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
The inn is strategically located within walking distance of Harvard Yard, Harvard Law School, and Harvard Medical School (Cambridge facilities). The famous Harvard Square—a vibrant hub of bookstores, cafés, theaters, and cultural life—is only a short stroll away.
Accessibility:
- From Logan International Airport (BOS): Approximately 7 miles away; easily reachable by taxi, rideshare, or public transport (MBTA).
- By Subway (MBTA): The nearest stop is Harvard Station on the Red Line, only about 10 minutes away on foot.
- By Car: Parking options are available nearby, although limited; guests often use local garages or street parking with permits.
The central location makes it an ideal lodging option for both tourists and university visitors who wish to explore Harvard and its surroundings without long commutes.
A Historic Setting: Cambridge and Harvard
The inn’s location near Harvard University offers guests the chance to experience Cambridge’s deep historical and academic roots. Harvard, founded in 1636, is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. The surrounding neighborhood has maintained its colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, and academic energy for centuries.
Walking around the area, visitors can explore:
- Harvard Yard: The university’s oldest area, with historic buildings and monuments.
- Harvard Art Museums: A treasure trove of global art and culture.
- Harvard Museum of Natural History: Popular for its scientific exhibits and glass flower collection.
- Harvard Square: A bustling cultural and commercial center filled with bookstores, music, and restaurants.
Staying at A Friendly Inn means being within reach of these iconic landmarks while still enjoying the quiet comfort of a small, personal inn.
Accommodation and Room Features
The inn offers a variety of comfortable rooms designed for travelers seeking simplicity, warmth, and convenience. The rooms are clean, well-furnished, and equipped with all essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
Room Types:
- Single Rooms: Ideal for solo travelers or students.
- Double Rooms: Suitable for couples or two guests.
- Family Rooms: Larger spaces with additional bedding options.
Common Room Amenities:
- Private bathroom with shower or bathtub
- Air conditioning and heating
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access
- Cable TV
- Work desk and chair
- Daily housekeeping service
- Hairdryer and toiletries
The décor reflects the inn’s classic New England charm—simple yet elegant, blending traditional design with modern comfort.
Services and Amenities
Despite its small size, A Friendly Inn offers a range of amenities designed to make guests’ stays pleasant and convenient.
Key Amenities:
- Complimentary Breakfast: Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast each morning featuring coffee, tea, juice, pastries, and fruits.
- Free Wi-Fi: High-speed internet access throughout the property.
- 24-Hour Front Desk: Friendly staff available to assist with check-in and local guidance.
- Luggage Storage: Available for early arrivals or late departures.
- Free Parking (Limited): On-site parking is available but limited; early reservation is recommended.
- No Smoking Policy: The entire property maintains a smoke-free environment.
Guests appreciate the personal touch of the staff and the welcoming atmosphere that the inn maintains, making it feel more like a home than a hotel.
Why Stay at A Friendly Inn at Harvard?
a. Proximity to Harvard University
The inn’s greatest advantage is its unbeatable location. Within minutes, guests can walk to Harvard University, attend events, or explore the campus.
b. Affordable Comfort
Compared to larger hotels in the Harvard Square area, A Friendly Inn provides an affordable alternative without compromising on comfort and cleanliness.
c. Personalized Service
Unlike large chain hotels, the inn offers a warm, personal touch. The staff often go out of their way to assist guests, providing recommendations and ensuring a pleasant stay.
d. Peaceful Environment
While Harvard Square buzzes with activity, the inn is tucked away on a quieter street, offering a relaxing environment ideal for reading, studying, or unwinding.
e. Authentic Cambridge Experience
Staying here allows visitors to experience Cambridge life up close—its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to local cafés and shops.
Nearby Attractions
A Friendly Inn’s central location makes it easy to explore not only Harvard University but also the cultural richness of Cambridge and Boston.
Within Walking Distance:
- Harvard Yard – 5-minute walk
- Harvard Square – 8-minute walk
- Harvard Art Museums – 10-minute walk
- Harvard Book Store – 7-minute walk
- The Coop (Harvard’s official store) – 7-minute walk
Nearby Boston Attractions (Accessible via Subway):
- Boston Common and Public Garden – 15–20 minutes by subway
- Freedom Trail – 20 minutes by subway
- Fenway Park – 15 minutes by subway
- Museum of Fine Arts – 20 minutes by subway
Whether guests are attending a conference, exploring museums, or enjoying a day trip to Boston, the inn serves as a convenient base for all activities.
Dining Options Nearby
Cambridge and Harvard Square offer an incredible variety of dining experiences—from casual cafés to fine dining establishments. Some nearby favorites include:
- Tatte Bakery & Café – Famous for pastries and brunch.
- Henrietta’s Table – A classic American restaurant near Harvard Square.
- Alden & Harlow – Upscale yet relaxed dining with creative American dishes.
- Felipe’s Taqueria – Popular for quick, delicious Mexican fare.
- Grafton Street Pub & Grill – A lively spot for dinner and drinks.
Guests can easily find vegetarian, vegan, and international cuisine options within walking distance.
Transportation and Connectivity
Getting around from A Friendly Inn is simple and efficient due to Cambridge’s excellent transportation network.
- Subway (MBTA Red Line): The Harvard Station connects to downtown Boston, MIT, and other destinations.
- Buses: Multiple bus routes serve Cambridge and neighboring areas.
- Bicycles: The area is very bike-friendly, with several bike rental options available.
- Walking: Most key attractions are easily walkable from the inn.
For those planning to explore beyond Cambridge, day trips to places like Lexington, Concord, and Salem are easily manageable.
Tips for Visitors
- Book Early: The inn’s rooms fill up quickly during Harvard events like graduation and orientation weeks.
- Check-In Times: Usually between 3:00 PM and 10:00 PM; check-out is typically by 11:00 AM.
- Breakfast Hours: Early morning to mid-morning, included in the stay.
- Quiet Hours: The inn maintains a peaceful environment, ideal for rest and study.
- Accessibility: The inn’s historic building may have limited accessibility features; guests should confirm specific requirements in advance.
Important Links and Information
| Category | Details / Links |
|---|---|
| Name | A Friendly Inn at Harvard |
| Address | 1673 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA |
| Phone Number | +1 (617) 547-7851 |
| info@afriendlyinn.com (if applicable) | |
| Official Website | https://www.afriendlyinn.com/ |
| Check-In / Check-Out | 3:00 PM / 11:00 AM |
| Parking | Limited free on-site parking |
| Wi-Fi | Complimentary |
| Breakfast | Continental breakfast included |
| Proximity to Harvard Yard | Approximately 0.3 miles |
| Nearest MBTA Station | Harvard Station (Red Line) |
| Nearby Attractions | Harvard Yard, Harvard Art Museums, Harvard Square |
| Ideal For | Tourists, Harvard visitors, students, families |
FAQ about A Friendly Inn at Harvard
Where is A Friendly Inn at Harvard located?
A Friendly Inn is located at 1673 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts, just minutes away from Harvard University and Harvard Square.
How far is the inn from Harvard Yard?
The inn is within walking distance—about a 5 to 10-minute walk from Harvard Yard and other university landmarks.
Does the inn provide free breakfast?
Yes, guests enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast each morning featuring a variety of simple but delicious items.
Is there parking available at the inn?
Yes, limited free on-site parking is available, but due to high demand, it’s recommended to reserve in advance.
Does the inn have Wi-Fi?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Is A Friendly Inn suitable for families?
Yes, the inn offers family-friendly rooms and provides a safe, quiet environment ideal for travelers with children.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in generally starts at 3:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM. Guests arriving early can request luggage storage.
Is smoking allowed on the premises?
No, A Friendly Inn maintains a non-smoking policy throughout the property.
What are some nearby attractions?
Nearby attractions include Harvard Yard, Harvard Art Museums, Harvard Book Store, and Harvard Square. Boston attractions like Fenway Park and the Freedom Trail are also easily accessible.
Why choose A Friendly Inn over a hotel?
The inn offers a more personal and homely atmosphere than large hotels, along with excellent proximity to Harvard and reasonable rates.
Conclusion
A Friendly Inn at Harvard captures the essence of Cambridge hospitality—a perfect blend of warmth, simplicity, and proximity to one of the world’s greatest universities. Its inviting environment, attentive service, and central location make it a top choice for visitors seeking a cozy, budget-friendly stay near Harvard University.
Whether you are in town for a short visit, attending a Harvard event, or exploring the historic city of Cambridge, A Friendly Inn provides a restful and convenient home away from home. From its continental breakfast to its peaceful rooms and charming surroundings, the inn reflects the timeless appeal of New England comfort.
For travelers who appreciate both value and authenticity, A Friendly Inn at Harvard stands out as more than just a place to stay—it’s part of the Harvard experience itself.