What’s there to see in Harvard Square?

I’m always being asked in it’s worth it to go to Harvard Square? After all, you have to go on the subway all the way to Cambridge, which takes all of 15 minutes. Well, the short answer is, “Definitely YES!!!”
First, Harvard Square itself is such an interesting place. You can watch the chess masters in action at Au Bon Pain while you enjoy a cup of cappuccino. Listen to the street musicians. Or, just people watch as, literally, the world goes by. You can stay at the Charles Hotel, and you’ll be right there!
Take a walk through Radcliff Yard, which was created in 1879 to provide women with a Harvard education without them having to go to Harvard. My how times have changed! Feel how insulated you feel from the outside world.
Stroll down Brattle Street, known as “Tory Row”, where those destined to remain allegiant to the crown built mansions prior to the revolution. They ended up leaving en-masse, escorted by British Troops to Nova Scotia, but their historic and interesting homes survive.
Have lunch at Mr. Bartley’s Burger Village or John Harvard’s Brew House to get a taste of Harvard Life. Enjoy one of the best burgers you ever had or the spicy, home-style version of meatloaf at JH’s.
Finally, walk through Harvard Yard, the original campus of Harvard. Take a gawk at Massachusetts Hall, built in 1718.
Find out the three lies of John Harvard’s Statue [no hints here!]. Check out the world’s largest college library, the Widener. And feel like a Harvard student……
‐ Alan Maltzman of BostonCityWalks.com