History Lover's Guide to Cambridge

2 min readAug 5, 2015By Viator

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Cambridge is rich with American history, so travelers hoping to get in touch with the past won’t have to look far. Here are some of the top touchstones to the nation’s roots in this quaint New England town.

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Harvard Yard

Tour the yard for an up-close look at one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions.Photo Credit: Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

Stop by the famous Harvard Yard for an up-close look at one of the nation’s oldest (and most esteemed) institutes of higher education. After touring the school, check out the iconic John Harvard statute, which is said to look like the founder of the university.

Cambridge Common

Here, see three abandoned cannons dating back to 1776 on display.Photo Credit: Cambridge Common / Shutterstock

This may be a top picnic destination thanks to wide-open green spaces and grassy recreational fields, but travelers can find a bit of history amid this lush landscape as well. Three abandoned cannons from Fort Independence that date all the way back to 1776 are on display in Cambridge Common.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

This museum has life-size dioramas and ancient artifacts dating back to the founding of America.Photo Credit: Papa Bravo / Shutterstock

Take a trip back in time while exploring life-size dioramas and ancient artifacts dating back to the founding of America—and even before. Explore the history of this nation, starting with historic times and venture forward into the future thanks to impressive and engaging displays.

Longfellow House (Washington’s Headquarters)

Calling all literary lovers and history buffs.Photo Credit: Papa Bravo / Shutterstock

Literary lovers will find the former home of famed poet Henry W. Longfellow and one-time headquarters to General George Washington a must-see stop on a visit to Cambridge. Travelers can wander the decorated and restores halls while they learn more about this dynamic family and their role in American history.restored