can you tour harvard

Can I take a tour of the Harvard campus?

Jul 5, 2023 • knowledge.

The Harvard University Visitor Center offers in-person tours daily. Additional tour offerings include the  self-guided historical tour on the Visit Harvard mobile app, available to download on  iOS  and  Android  devices.  During business hours you may purchase a Self-Guided Tour Map for $3 available in multiple languages.

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Harvard University Walking Tour

This post covers how to tour Harvard University and the surrounding Cambridge area, including our pay-what-you-wish tour and our audio tour which you can take any time.

There is also a tour guided by students, as well as a self-guided option.

Harvard University is the oldest college in the United States (1636).

Eight U.S. presidents attended Harvard University and the name is known worldwide.

WHERE IS HARVARD?

Harvard University is located in the City of Cambridge, just across the Charles River from Boston.

It's located approximately 4 miles (6.5 km) away from the Boston Commons (or 15 min on the subway).

Regardless of how you decide to get here, we recommend using this Google Maps link for directions to Harvard Square .

Be sure to read our how-to guide on riding the Boston T (subway).

TIP: If you are considering purchasing a hop-on-hop-off trolley ticket, be aware that Old Town Trolley has a stop for Harvard University.

GUIDED HARVARD WALKING TOURS

To start with, our 2-hour, pay-what-you-like tour not only covers Harvard University but also the surrounding area of Cambridge.

Below us, you can read about a shorter tour led by current Harvard students.

FREE TOURS BY FOOT

Reservations:  REQUIRED.  Click here to reserve . Groups of 6 or more must  contact us  before booking.

Where:  At the Cambridge Tourism Information Booth in Harvard Square ( map ).

Cost:  This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A  name-your-own-price tour  is a tour for anyone's budget.

Duration:  Approximately 2 hours. Tour distance is approximately 1 mile (1.6K)

When: 

• Jan. to Feb. : No Tours
• March to April:   Saturdays and Sundays 10 am
• May to June 20:   Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays 10 am
• June 20th to Labor Day : Everyday 10 am
• Sept. to Oct:   Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays 10 am
• Nov. to Dec .  Saturdays and Sundays 10 am

You can also take this tour as a self-guided GPS enabled audio tour .

Here is how it works:

• Purchase an  audio tour from our Booking Page .
• You'll receive a confirmation email with a .pdf, Google Map link, and audio tour.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

Listen to a sample of the Harvard and Cambridge audio tour.

Hahvahad Tours (that's phonetically spelled) 

This company offers 70-min tours several times each day that are led by current Harvard students, enthusiastic ambassadors of the university.

Tours are inexpensive, light-hearted, but are limited to the university grounds, so you won't see much of Cambridge. 

Tours run daily at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 1 pm.  

$19.50/adults | $18.50/students, seniors and children (Free with the Go Boston tourist discount card )

Book your tour here .

SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF HARVARD UNIVERSITY AND CAMBRIDGE

You can also take this tour as a self-guided GPS-enabled audio tour .

How to Get to Harvard University

Reaching the start of this tour is easy.

The best way to access the area is by mass transit. You can take the red line T to Harvard Square MBTA Station.  

Use this Google map for directions to Harvard Square .  

Click on the map for a larger version.

Out of Town Newsstand

Your tour starts outside the Harvard Sq. MBTA (subway) Station.

Notice the Out of Town Newsstand which is a Cambridge landmark. 

The newsstand since it opened in 1955, has been providing Harvard professors, students, and Cambridge Residence with newspapers and magazines from all over the world.

The building is a national historic landmark.

From Out of Town News walk up JFK Street (to your right if you are facing Out of Town News).

Follow JFK St. to Mt. Auburn St. and take a left down Mt. Auburn St. to the Harvard Lampoon Building at 44 Bow St.

1. Lampoon Building

The Lampoon Building is also known as the Lampoon Castle.

The best place to view this building is by standing on the island where Bow St. and Mt. Auburn St. meet.

This building houses Harvard's comedy magazine The Lampoon, where students like Cohan O'Brien and John Updike wrote while undergraduates at the university.

John Updike also served as president of The Lampoon at his time there.

This is one of the most unique buildings on Campus.

Opened in 1909 the building is designed in the form of a human face wearing a Prussian helmet. The front door looks like a bow tie turned sideways.

Notice the Ibis on top. This is made of copper and weighs about 70 pounds. The Ibis was stolen a few times by members of Harvard University's newspaper The Crimson as a prank.

The bird is now said to have an electrified wire attached to it to prevent future thefts.

Costing $40,000 to construct in 1909, at the time the building was the most expensive headquarters for a student publication in the nation. Look to your right you will see Lowell House, the structure with the white bell tower.

This undergraduate dorm is where Matt Damon stayed while a student at the university.

Notice the bell tower of Lowell House. The tower houses 18 bells ranging in size from 22 pounds (the smallest bell) to 27,000 pounds (the Mother Earth bell).

After what is known as The Game, the annual Harvard vs. Yale football game, the Harvard team score is rung out on the Mother Earth Bell.

The Yale score is chimed on what is known as the bells of Pestilence, Famine, and Despair.

As you walk around the Lampoon Building you will notice two dates, 1909 and 1876. 1909 is when the building opened and 1876 is when the Harvard Lampoon Magazine was first published

Continue walking up Mt. Auburn St following the Lampoon Building and take a left onto Plympton St. At 26 Plympton St. you will see the undergraduate dorm of the Adams House.

2. Adams House

Opened in 1900 the dorm is named in honor of the United State's 2nd President John Adams and his son, America's 6th President John Quincy Adams, who both graduated from the university.

There is a suite inside Adam's House called the FDR Suite where the United States' 32nd president Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) lived while a student at Harvard.

It is restored to the 1904 appearance to honor the president who stayed there as a student.

The FDR Suite inside Adams House is the only memorial to FDR on campus.

Including FDR, John Adams, and John Quincy Adams, Harvard University has had 5 other US Presidents who attended: Barack Obama, George W. Bush, John F. Kennedy, Theodore Roosevelt, and Rutherford B. Hayes for a total of 8 U.S. Presidents who attended the university.

Continue up Plympton St. to 14 Plympton St. to the student newspaper The Harvard Crimson.

3. Harvard Crimson

Founded in 1873 it was called The Magenta for its first two years, and in 1875 the paper changed its name to The Crimson when the University changed its color to crimson.

The Harvard Crimson is the only daily newspaper in the City of Cambridge and is run entirely by the university's undergraduate students.

It is also the only college newspaper in the United States that has its own printing press.

Some of the famous folks who wrote for the Crimson include US Presidents Franklin Delano Roosevelt (who served as the newspaper president) and John F. Kennedy (a business editor).

Look up to the second-floor glass door and you may be able to see the big chair inside.

This chair has small brass makers attached to the chair with the names of the former presidents of the newspaper.

Like the Ibis on top of the Lampoon Building, members of the Harvard Lampoon sometimes steal this chair as a prank and revenge for the Crimson's members' theft of their Ibis.

The chair is now chained to the floor to help thwart future thefts.

Continue up Plympton St. and cross Massachusetts Ave. and enter Old Harvard Yard through Dextor Gate.

Notice the carved inscription above the entrance and the words "enter to grow in wisdom" and on the exit/inside of the gate the words "depart to serve better this country and thy kind."

4. Wigglesworth Hall

After you enter Harvard Yard, take a left and will see the dorm, Wigglesworth Hall.

All freshmen who enter Harvard are required to stay in the Halls of Old Harvard Yard. All the freshman dorms are called Halls and the upper-class dorms are called Houses.

Some of the famous students who lived in Wigglesworth Hall include Leonard Bernstein, Senator Edward Kennedy, and Bill Gates.

Follow the path to the Henry Elkins Widener Memorial Library.

5. Henry Elkins Widener Memorial Library

This is the largest college library in the United States and is the nation's 3rd largest library. The library has 57 miles (92 km) of shelves along five miles of aisles on ten floors.

Only the US Library of Congress and the New York Public Library hold more volumes of books.

The Library is six floors high and four floors below and was built in honor of 1907 Harvard graduate Henry Elkins Widener who was killed in April 1912 at the age of 27 during the sinking of the Titanic.

The library was built with funds donated by Widener's mother Eleanor to honor her son's memory.

Look directly across the Old Yard and you will see Memorial Church. This church was built in 1932.

Inside these walls engraved alongside a sculptor named “The Sacrifice” are 373 names of alumni who were killed during WWI.

Since then other memorials have been established inside the church for Harvard Students and Alumni who were killed in WWII, The Korean War, and Vietnam.

Walk around the Widener Library and follow the path to the Dragon Statue.

6. Dragon Statue

This statue was donated to the university in 1936 by Chinese Alumni in honor of the university's 300 anniversary.

The statue is made of marble and weighs 27 tons. It was carved between 1796 and1820 in Beijing and formally resided in the Winter Palace before being donated and shipped to the university.

As you continue down the path look to your right and you will see Weld Hall where President John F. Kennedy lived during his freshman year at Harvard.

Follow the path around University Hall and you will see the most famous site on campus, the John Harvard Statue.

7. John Harvard Statue

This is also known as the Statue of "three lies".

The first one is on the statue's base and states Harvard was formed in 1638. Wrong, as we know Harvard was formed in 1636.

It says that John Harvard was the founder of Harvard. Wrong, Harvard was founded in 1636 by the Great and General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. John Harvard endowed Harvard with books and money in 1638.

And the third and probably the biggest lie on the statue is that the man in the chair; not John Harvard.

When the statue was designed in 1884 by Daniel Chester French there was not any likeness of John Harvard.

French used a Harvard Student by the name of Sherman Hoar as the inspiration for John Harvard's face. Sherman Hoar was a descendant of the brother of Harvard's fourth president Leonard Hoar.

The statue is one of the most photographed statues in the United States, and you will notice the worn-out bronze of the statue's left foot where millions of visitors have rubbed for good luck.

There is also the legend that if you rub/touch the foot of the statue you will acquire some of the knowledge of Harvard.

Take the path away from the John Harvard Statue and towards the street. On the left, you will see Massachusetts Hall.

8. Massachusetts Hall

Opened in 1720, Massachusetts Hall is the second oldest college dorm in the United States.

Some of their legendary student residents include John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and America's second president John Adams.

During the siege of Boston in 1775, 640 members of the Continental Army led by George Washington were housed there.

Currently, Massachusetts Hall houses the office of Harvard's President, Treasurer, and Vice President, all of which have their offices on the first two floors and part of the third floor.

On the fourth floor are freshman dorms.

Exit the Old Yard through Johnston Gate.

9. Johnson Gate

Opened in 1890, Johnston Gate was the first gate constructed around Old Harvard Yard.

Johnston Gate cost $10,000 to construct in 1889-90 and was a gift to the university by 1855 Harvard Graduate Samuel Johnston.

For several hundred years, on Harvard's commencement day, sheriffs from Middlesex and Suffolk Country have entered Harvard Yard on horseback before the Middlesex Sheriff's call to order.

It has become a tradition that they enter through Johnston Gate. Another tradition at Harvard regarding Johnston Gate is that after the commencement ceremony, graduates exit Harvard Yard using only Johnston Gate.

As you exit Harvard Yard through Johnston Gate you can now consider yourself an honorary graduate of Harvard University.

After exiting Johnston Gate, cross Massachusetts Ave. to the island in the middle and you will be at the sculpture of Charles Sumner (1811-1874).

10. Charles Sumner Statue

He was a lawyer, abolitionist, orator, and US Senator from Massachusetts.

One of the many things he is known for is while a US Senator he was an incident that took place on the Senate floor when he was arguing against the Kansas/Nebraska Act.

This was an 1854 legislative act that would allow the expansion of slavery in the new states of Kansas and Nebraska.

On May 20th, 1856, Sumner was auguring against the Act, and during his diatribe, Sumner called US Senator Andrew Butler from South Carolina a slave pimp and went on a tirade against the senator and his state of South Carolina.

During the tirade, he mocked Butler's manner of speech and physical mannerisms as Butler previously suffered a stroke which left him physically impaired.

Two days later, US Congressman Preston Brooks, the cousin of Senator Butler walked on the Senate floor and approached Sumner.

As Sumner rose to meet the Representative, Preston beat Sumner nearly to death with a cane until the cane finally broke.

The beating rendered Sumner unconscious on the Senate floor. It took almost two years before Senator Sumner recovered from the beating.

The event showed how divided the United States was at that time over the issue of slavery.

Continue across Massachusetts Ave. , take a right and follow Massachusetts Ave. and you will be outside the Cambridge Burial Ground (1635).

11. Old Burial Ground

This burial ground was the only burial ground in Cambridge for nearly 200 years and includes a cross-section of Cambridge residents from paupers to Harvard presidents.

Like all the old burial grounds, there are many more bodies beneath than the 1218 headstones above, as many of the headstones did not survive the centuries and some of the earliest burials were unmarked.

The oldest headstone in the burial ground is that of Anne Eriton which dates to 1653.

The tomb of John Vassel is the most elaborate in the burial ground and contains 25 caskets and including the body of Andrew Craigie who was the first Apothecary General of the Continental Army. He was also a former owner of the Longfellow House on Tory Row.

Craigie also developed much of what is known as East Cambridge and also organized the construction of the Canal Bridge which connected East Cambridge to Boston.

The bridge was later rebuilt as the Charles River Dam but is also known as Carigie's Bridge.

The Old Burial Ground also contains the remains of 8 Harvard presidents including Harvard's first president Henry Dunster.

It's also home to the remains of 19 Revolutionary War Soldiers including John Hicks, William Macy, and Moses Richardson who were buried there after the first Battles of the American Revolution on April 19th, 1775 in Lexington and Concord.

The burial ground also houses the tomb of the Dana Family. Richard Henry Dana, Jr. was an abolitionist who worked with Charles Sumner.

Continue up Massachusetts Ave. and once you cross Garden St. look down on the sidewalk and you will see a series of horseshoes embedded along the sidewalk of Massachusetts Ave.

These show the route that William Dawes, the second rider with Paul Revere on his midnight ride took on his way up to Lexington, MA on the night of April 18, 1775.

The ride to "Midnight Ride" by Paul Revere, William Dawes, and others which warned the towns along the way that the British Troops were on the move resulted in the start of the American Revolution in Lexington/Concord on the morning of April 19, 1775.

Cross at the crosswalk ahead and you are at the gates of Cambridge Common. Rather than walk through the gates, take the sidewalk to the left along Garden Street.

12. Cambridge Common

This 16-acre park was where George Washington and the Continental Army camped in 1775 while British Troops occupied Boston until March 1776.

The first site you will see when entering the Common is a memorial for the Irish Famine which was dedicated on July 23, 1997, by then-Irish President Mary Robinson.

The sculpture was created by Maurice Harron a resident of Derry, Northern Ireland who has sculptures in Ireland, The UK, and The United States.

Continue walking through the Common keeping Garden Street on your left and you will come to a series of cannons.

These cannons were abandoned at Fort Independence (also known as Castle William) on March 17, 1776, when the British Troops evacuated from Boston.

There is also a plaque to Henry Knox, a Boston and bookseller before the American Revolution, he would become the first Secretary of War under President George Washington.

Henry Knox in January of 1776, dragged cannons and other military supplies from the captured British Forts Ticonderoga and Crown Point in Upstate New York and led the mission to carry the 60 tons of cannons and other arms on ox-drawn sleds 300 miles across snowy and frozen ground to Boston.

What was expected to take two weeks, took six weeks as the caravan of men where faced storms and delays as the cannons broke through the ice and got stuck in the mud and snow, but in the end, they were able to deliver the munitions to Boston.

The cannons were placed on Dorchester Heights, (the hills surrounding Boston) on the night of March 16, 1776.

When the Occupying British Troops woke the next morning on March 17th, they realized they were surrounded by artillery and withdrew their ships to Halifax and retreated out of Boston.

The siege of Boston was ended as a result. March 17th is a holiday in Boston called Evacuation Day as a result of the efforts of Henry Knox and his men.

Henry Knox went on to be in charge of improving the defenses in Rhode Island and New York during the American Revolution where in New York he met Alexander Hamilton who was the commander of the local artillery.

They would remain close friends until Hamilton died in 1804.

Knox would later become the first Secretary of War under George Washington.

Henry Knox died in 1806 at the age of 56 after swallowing a chicken bone which caused an infection that killed him three days later on Oct. 25th.

Also located in the area of the cannons and marked with a plaque is the Washington Elm.

Legend has it (although is disputed) that under this tree on July 3, 1775, General George Washington took control of the Continental Army.

The army struck camp there and stayed until March 1776 when British Troops evacuated Boston.

The original tree lived about 210 years and finally fell in 1923. The tree was cut up into 100 pieces and sent to all the US States and their legislatures.

Other pieces were sent to fraternal organizations throughout the US and root shoots were also sent throughout the nation, and some still live today.

The cross-section of the tree was sent to Mt. Vernon, George Washington's plantation in the state of Virginia.

Turn around and head back down the sidewalk, you'll see a white church to your right across the street.

13. Christ Church

This 1759 church was formed by the members of King's Chapel in Boston who lived in Cambridge.

This church provided church of England Services to students attending Harvard and was designed by Peter Harrison who also was the architect of Boston's King's Chapel.

During the American Revolution, the church which sits across the street from the Cambridge Common where the Continental Army was camped out at the start of the war, soldiers camp there fired shots at the then Loyalist Church.

If you walk into the front doors of the church and look above the inside door frame a musket hole is visible from that time.

Later George and Martha Washington would attend a prayer service there and as the war wore on the church was closed and the organ of the church was melted down for bullets for the Continental Army.

In April 1967, the church hosted speeches from Dr. Benjamin Spock and Martin Luther King, Jr. who were denied access to a building on Harvard's Campus.

They planned to hold a press conference against the Vietnam War. They were welcomed by the Reverend Murray Kenney. Jesse Jackson also spoke at the church in 2004 celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Continue walking towards Massachusetts Ave. and back to the Cambridge Burial Ground. At the burial ground, take a right down Massachusetts Ave. and cross Church Street. Follow Massachusetts Ave. and you will come to the Harvard Coop.

14. The Harvard Coop

The Harvard Coop was opened in 1882 to supply books and school supplies for the students at Harvard.

In 1916 after MIT moved from Boston to Cambridge, MIT opened a branch of the Coop to serve its students and is still present on MIT's campus today.

This Coop is one of the largest college bookstores in the United States. The store is run by Barnes and Noble today and the public is welcome to come in the shop and browse Harvard Swag and books.

However, membership to the Coop is limited only to students, faculty, alumni, and employees as well as personnel of hospitals affiliated with Harvard Medical School.

In 1882 membership cost $1.00 and that cost is the same today.

Cross Massachusetts Ave. to the Harvard MBTA Station and you will be where the tour started outside the Harvard Sq. MBTA Station and Out-of-Town Newsstand.

We hope you enjoyed your Self-Guided Tour of Harvard!

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Harvard Campus Tour: 15 Best Places to Visit at Harvard

From lofty libraries to picturesque walks, from Harvard Square to Charles River, here are the 15 best places to include on your Harvard campus tour!

Whether you’re a new Harvard student starting your school year, or visiting Harvard University on a campus tour, there is so much to discover. My lovely university is a heaven for students, tourists and photographers alike. During my time at Harvard, I got plenty of visitors, both friends and family. And for everyone, it was an overwhelming experience taking in all the beauty of our breathtaking campus.

Harvard University is one of the most visited places in Boston, and even all of East Coast. A Harvard University tour is a memorable experience, since every visitor has seen parts of the campus either in movies, pictures or places that have been inspired by Harvard architecture.

Harvard Campus Tour – Where to Go

Harvard University is full of new and old buildings, beautiful architecture and iconic spots to take your pictures. Of course, some of the best places at Harvard are reserved for the students, so if you aren’t one, it’s best to visit with a student or during the Open House.

But whether you have a Harvard ID or not, Harvard University will have a lot to offer you if you’re visiting. From hallowed libraries to historic dining halls, busy dorms to picturesque riverside walks, here is my list of the 15 best places to visit at Harvard.

Harvard Square and the Coop

Harvard Square may not be the most iconic place at Harvard if you’re just googling images of the university. But for every student and visitor, this is where the tour starts. Harvard has a whole T station (metro, subway or underground) dedicated to it, called Harvard Square, which can be the starting point of your Harvard university tour. It’s also the meeting point if you ever lose your tour partners!

Located at the junction of John F. Kennedy Street and Massachusetts Avenue is the building of Cambridge Savings Bank, which has become something of a landmark over the years. Along with this building, other structures and shops such as bookstores, toy stores, and a Bank of America also surround Harvard Square.

Harvard Square is unmissable, central and is the congregation point, where students run into old friends, meet new acquaintances and grab a bite to eat. The most popular and central spot is Starbucks, below the Cambridge Savings Bank, which is right at the corner of Mass Ave, and opened while I was a student at Harvard. Right outside is the Cambridge Visitor’s Information Center booth.

Some other popular spots next to it are the Au Bon Pain, next to Starbucks, and The Coop, across the road, where you can buy all possible books and official Harvard merchandise.

Harvard Yard & John Harvard statue

The green space between undergraduate dormitories is called Harvard Yard, which is enclosed by iron fences, walls and gates. Harvard Yard is the most iconic place at Harvard University, and is a must on any Harvard campus tour.

It is one of the oldest areas that became a part of Harvard University in the late 1600s, housing Harvard College dorms. Now it is also home to the famous John Harvard Statue, where you can see throngs of tourists taking pictures every time, everyday, touching his shoe to take pictures.

However, Harvard students would never touch it, because we all know that urinating on John Harvard’s shoe is one of three traditional deeds some Harvard College students strive to complete. It still remains the most touched spots of Harvard University. Sigh.

Harvard Yard is spread over 25 acres (10 ha) and it’s boundaries have 25 gates, opening at Mass Ave, Science Center. The yard is also home to libraries and memorial church, where the Harvard graduation ceremony takes place annually.

The Yard is the best place to soak the sun and read, be around College students. If you’re traveling in the fall season, it’s a beautiful place to take pictures. Here, you can see the New England fall colors in their full glory.

Widener Library

This is right in the part of Harvard Yard that is behind the John Harvard statue (called Tercentenary Theater). Widener library is the oldest one at Harvard University. And it’s the largest private and university-owned library in the United States. It is home to 3.5 million books, countless stacks and all types of reading spaces.

The library is named after Harvard College alumus and book collector Harry Elkins Widener, who died in the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912.

Although Harvard has many beautiful libraries, Widener is my favorite one. With high ceilings, chandeliers and royal chairs, it’s easy to forget Widener can also have so many hidden low-lit spots in its depths too. I used to spend all my free time there as much as possible, discovering new reading spots and books. My favorites were the comfy high-backed chairs that face the tall windows opening into Harvard Yard.

Memorial Church

Situated right across Widener Library, this is another iconic building in Harvard University and one of the best parts of Harvard. Most Harvard students see and pass by it daily, whether on their way to their dorms, dining halls or classes. And of course, almost all Harvard students graduate here, although not every student has been inside it!

The interiors themselves are often used for ceremonies, commemoration, etc. For example, the only time I ever went inside was for a candlelight vigil for Japan’s 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

Although every year, the Church is home to bittersweet memories for everyone. The area in front of Memorial Church, the central green of Harvard Yard, is known as Tercentenary Theater. This is where the Harvard commencement ceremony takes place every year. Many celebrities and famous Harvard alumni have delivered graduation speeches on its porch, such as Steven Spielberg, Mark Zuckerberg, J.K. Rowling and John F. Kennedy.

Memorial Hall & Sanders Theater

Memorial Hall is yet another iconic building in Harvard University. The building is located near the Yard, at the junction of Cambridge, Kirkland, and Quincy Streets. It has high Victorian Gothic architectural style. Constructed in 1878, the building has many stained glass windows, ribbed vaults, spires and pointed arches.

Also called Mem Hall or just ‘Mem’, the building used to be the background of the John Harvard Statue in the early 1920s and before. Mem Hall houses three parts: Sanders Theater, Annenberg Hall and Memorial Transept.

Memorial Transept is a vault that anyone can enter, and is serves as the congregation space for Sanders Theater. It has a high vaulted ceiling and large stained-glass windows above the entrance on either side. Great place to take pictures, if only it were better lit. Either way, it’s an important one to include in your Harvard campus tour.

The Sanders Theater is Harvard University’s largest indoor space. Used for lectures, concerts and most notably, the annual graduation ceremony for Harvard College students. Sanders is where they receive their diplomas.

Even Harvard students aren’t allowed inside, unless it’s for a mandatory lecture or they have a pass for a particular lecture or ceremony. Most lectures that take place in Sanders are by celebrities or famous alumni, such as Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Theodore Roosevelt have spoken there. One of the times I have attended a lecture there was when Bill Gates came to speak.

Although if you are accompanied by a Harvard student and you request, they may allow you to take a peek inside when the theater is not in use.

Annenberg Hall

Located inside the Memorial Hall, Annenberg Hall serves as the dining hall for freshmen of Harvard College. When it was constructed in 1874, people from all over the country came to visit, since it was one of the largest indoor meeting spaces ever constructed in the US.

It is also breathtakingly beautiful, and serves a large selection of food (yum!). With its large expansive, unobstructed space, Annenberg Hall is designed in Gothic style. It has stained glass windows, wooden trusses and vaulted ceiling. The hall is decorated with large hanging candelabras. Its walls have paintings of benefactors and presidents and its ceiling is so high I’m not even sure it exists!

Originally meant to be a place for alumni meetings, Annenberg was soon converted to a dining commons. Now it is used for the freshmen students only. And as a grad student, I only got the opportunity to eat there during the days my own dining hall was closed. (Of course, then my dorm mates and I loved it, because we were treated to their desserts, ice-cream and beautiful entrées.)

It is also used for dances, banquets, examinations and more. Also, Annenberg is what inspired the Great Hall in Harry Potter movies. Only Annenberg Hall is more beautiful.

Read more: Annenberg Hall & Harvard Memorial Hall: All You Need to Know

Science Center

Located north of Harvard Yard, Science Center is home to the computer labs, classrooms and science library for undergraduates. The first floor also houses a nice cafe where I frequently lunched.

To someone expecting the classic Harvard style of architecture, Science Center is not much to look at. In fact, not even many Harvard students find it pretty. That’s because it was constructed in the ’70s, amid the modernist movement, when designers sought to do something different than the existing antiquated Georgian architectural style.

The plaza in front of the Science Center is home to the beautiful Tanner fountain, where kids are often found playing and water-splashing! Students often put up Yard sales, College club events and protest rallies there. Oftentimes, you can also find food-trucks, farmers’ markets and even Quidditch practices there.

Harvard Graduate School of Design

Graduate School of Design or GSD is my alma mater, which is mainly located on 48 Quincy Street in a building named Gund Hall. The Gund is also constructed in glass, steel and concrete (just like the Science Center) and is different from the iconic Harvard architectural style.

Gund Hall has a stepped design, where different studios form the levels, called trays. The building has a lot of clear glass, allowing natural lights into the trays, where students have their drawing boards or desks.

GSD also has a yard where student works are often exhibited, including those using 3D printing, robotic machines, CNC machines, etc.

The area near the entrance at the first floor of GSD is used to exhibit student work throughout the year. These exhibitions are specifically designed to give a new “interior look” to the space with each exhibit, often theme-based or interactive. This space also houses temporary events, student performances and the spillage from the events happening in cafeteria called Chauhaus and the Piper Auditorium.

Harvard Law School & HLS Library

Harvard Law School (HLS) is located near the northwest of the Harvard Yard. The HLS library is a beautiful old building with a big yard in front of it. Named Langdell Hall, it is immediately recognizable with its large windows, columns and Harvardian architecture style.

HLS library has a large, high-ceilinged chandelier-lit reading space with countless stacks filled with law-books. But they serve free hot-chocolate at night, so it’s a good place for non-law-students to study, too. You can get in with a Harvard ID, and discover their chessboard coffee tables, too! HLS library is my second favorite library after Widener, and was also my first workplace after my Harvard graduation, where I worked for a whole year to create digital learning spaces.

Wassterstein Hall Harvard Law School

Take a secret underground passage from the HLS library and it takes you to the newly built Wasserstein Hall. (You can also get to it from above the ground, tho, but where’s the fun in that?) It is one of the newest and most beautiful buildings in all of Harvard University, and was opened when I was a student.

The Wassterstein houses a large fireplace-lit study space with the coziest high-backed chairs, two cafeterias and a bar, pool table and the most gorgeous toilets you can find on-campus. Even balconies and a grand semi-circular staircase. What more reason could there be to include it in your Harvard campus tour? I used to lunch here everyday when I was an employee at the HLS library, and the first-floor cafe is great for an evening snack (they have great fries).

Natural History Museum

Located north of the Science Center and near the graduate dorms, the Natural History Museum is a great place where many students don’t even go throughout their time at Harvard! Although admission is open only to Harvard community.

It is such a hidden gem within the university, especially to go if you’re visiting harvard with kids. In fact, the only time I went here was when I was showing my parents around the campus the day before my graduation ceremony (they loved it!).

The museum is home to many permanent and temporary exhibits that any student will love. These include a paleontology exhibit, which has the fossils of Kronosaurus, a 42-foot-long prehistoric marine reptile. Also, there’s exhibits of birds, wildlife microbes and a famous glass-flower exhibition.

Radcliffe Quad

Located north of the Harvard campus, the Radcliffe Quad, or just “Quad”, is not much of a touristy spot, but is a great place to visit if you’re a Harvard graduate student and looking to explore the campus. The Radcliffe Quadrangle houses the Quad green and undergraduate dormitories, including the oft-photographed Cabot house and Pforzheimer house.

The walk from Cambridge Commons to Radcliffe Quadrangle is a beautiful one, and depending on the season, you’ll see brilliant tulips or fall colors.

Malkin Athletic Center & Harvard Stadium

Harvard stadium.

The Malkin Athletic Center (MAC) and the Harvard Stadium are located at completely different parts of the campus, but I have to include them together here.

The Harvard Stadium is south of the campus, across from HBS. The world-renowned stadium was built in 1903, and is a National Historic Landmark. It’s an essential part of any Harvard campus tour.

The Stadium is primarily a College football stadium, but they also use it for music festivals and other sports. It’s next to the humongous Blodgett Pool (one one that you see Robert Langdon swimming in in the Da Vinci Code movie).

Malkin Athletic Center (MAC)

The MAC is my favorite gymnasium at Harvard and is the perf spot for all Harvard students to work out. The gym is located south of the Harvard square, and is a large five story facility.

In the center is a large pool, and the upper floors have the cardio rooms with a view of the pool. Actually, I find the group exercise mezannine space overlooking the pool even prettier! This is where I discovered my passion for Zumba (miss it!). The building also houses many weight rooms, strength training equipment, basketball court and what not.

Charles River

The Charles river is an iconic body that divides the main Harvard campus. The north part of the campus on the north of Charles is the Cambridge campus, that borders at Memorial Drive. And the southern one is Allston campus, that starts at Soldiers Field Road. These two are connected by the Anderson Memorial Bridge, which is the perfect spot to take pictures and view both sides. It’s a must-see spot when visiting Harvard and MIT.

The space next to Memorial Drive is where you’ll see the bike path, students lounging around after classes, and skateboarders. The John F. Kennedy Memorial Park is right next to it, featuring a fountain. And while you’re here, also walk around to discover tiny lanes, tree-lined avenues. If you’re on a self-guided harvard tour, walk west, and enjoy a quiet cappuccino at Darwin’s, or go up north to have a cup of tea at Pete’s Cafe.

Harvard Business School

Harvard Business School is the top-pick for MBA tourists or student-visitors who like business management. Located in Allston, the HBS campus is a bit separated from the main campus by the Charles River. However, it’s a beautiful campus that all students and visitors should check out on their Harvard campus tour.

Right from across the river, you’ll see the iconic Baker Library, a world-famous building. It has the best place to take a picture at Harvard – in the HBS yard, with Baker Library forming the backdrop. And if you want one with the Harvard sign, check out the HBS sign at the back entrance.

The next spot to check out is Spangler Center, which is the student center. A relatively new building, Spangler has the same Georgian architecture style that the old Harvard buildings have. Inside is a massive student lounge that’s actually the last place I can concentrate in, because it seems a bit daunting.

The HBS cafeteria is inside too, which is rather nice and serves different cuisines everyday. The dining hall is gorgeous with large tables and chandeliers (although nobody joins you if you’re eating alone). Step underground to their bar and also check out their underground passages while you’re at it. (It leads to the library).

– Experience the Harvard Student Life with Me: How is Life at Harvard – Is Harvard Worth It? Analyzing Costs to Benefits for a Degree – What Kinds of Students Get into Harvard?

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On Campus Information Sessions & Tours

Registration instructions.

• Registration for a campus visit is required .
• To sign up, please select an available date from the calendar below. Multiple events may pop up when you select an available date. Click on the event labeled "On-Campus Visit" at the time that works for you, and then complete the registration form on a new page.
• Once your registration is complete, we will be in touch via email with helpful information to plan your visit and visit reminders.
• If you arrive on campus without registering, a member of our visitor team will help you to determine your best options including providing information about a self-guided tour and helping you to register for an open tour date and time.
• Sign up for an online session here  - this is a 1 hour live session with an admissions officer. 
• Click here to do a self-paced virtual tour  of Harvard's campus. 
• If you are in the area, you may stop by our office at 5 James Street from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday (11am-5pm on Wednesdays) and pick up a self-guided tour map and ask questions of the Visitor Center staff. 

COVID-19 Precautions

Group visits/tours, important information for your visit.

• Special Accommodations - there will be space on the registration form to request special accommodations. Please note that we require 21 days advance notice in order to secure ASL interpreters. We cannot provide interpreters for other languages at this current time. Those requesting the use of a wheelchair must leave a current driver’s license or state ID with our Visitor Center personnel until the chair is returned. 
• Most buildings are closed to the public. Public restrooms will be available in the Elizabeth Cary Agassiz House before/after the information session, and at the end of the tour at Smith Campus Center.
• At this time, it is not possible to store luggage or other personal property during your visit. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, especially for families who have traveled long distances to join us.
• Your registration and attendance have no bearing on the admissions process should you decide to apply.
• Guests are not permitted to record any part of the information session and/or tour. 

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9 Things to See On Your Campus Visit to Harvard

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When you’re making your college list, it’s always a good idea to visit colleges in person if you’re able to do so. You can learn a lot about a college online and by speaking with students or alumni, but actually visiting campus can give you a much better idea of what it’s actually like to live, learn, and work there for four years of your life.

If you’re thinking about visiting Harvard University and possibly applying to the school, you’re not alone; the college is not only an educational powerhouse, but also a popular destination for visitors from around the world. Attending an information session and taking a guided tour through Harvard’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions is a good idea, but those activities may not tell you everything you want to know.

In this post, we’ll go over some options you may want to add to your agenda for your Harvard visit, both on campus and off. These sights and activities can give you a uniquely valuable perspective on whether Harvard is truly a good fit for your college plans.

Want to learn what Harvard University will actually cost you based on your income? And how long your application to the school should take?  Here’s what every student considering Harvard University needs to know.

A Brief Introduction to Harvard

As we describe in greater detail in our Ultimate Guide to Applying to Harvard , Harvard University is possibly the most recognizable institution of higher learning in this country, and is widely know as an exceptionally prestigious and accomplished school. It also holds the title of the oldest university in the United States, so it’s been a fixture of the American educational scene for a very long time.

Harvard’s main campus is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just across the river from the city of Boston. Most of its undergraduate facilities and resources are nestled into this campus, which is both a historically significant site and a center of cutting-edge resources. Its ornate architecture is reminiscent of the venerable colleges of England, or, as some recent students have noticed, of J. K. Rowling’s Hogwarts.

As you would imagine, such a well-known and well-regarded school receives a huge number of applicants — nearly 40,000 per year in recent years. Consequently, its admissions rate is very low, and currently hovers around 5%. Still, many students dream of heading to Harvard after high school, and some number of them eventually will become students there.

Since Harvard is such a popular choice among college applicants, we’ve covered issues specific to the Harvard application process several times before on the CollegeVine blog .

In addition to our Ultimate Guide to Applying to Harvard , you may be interested in the following posts:

• What Does It Take to Get Into Harvard?
• How to Write the Harvard University Application Essays 2016-17
• Harvard College Sample Essay 2016-2017
• The Harvard Interview: What It’s Like From a Harvard Student
• Should You Submit the Harvard Optional Supplement Essay?

Things to See on Campus

Before we begin our list of things to see on Harvard’s campus, it’s necessary to mention a few items about how Harvard responds to and accommodates visitors, including prospective applicants touring the school. While, as we’ve said, Harvard is itself a tourist destination, it’s also a functioning university and community that has a lot going on besides entertaining guests.

One factor to keep in mind when visiting Harvard is that many campus buildings aren’t open to the public. For example, Annenberg Hall, the ornate first-year dining hall, is among these private facilities. Harvard’s libraries, while fascinating, are also very strict in their admission policies, with even some visiting scholars having to jump through hoops to get access. For some facilities, if you’re visiting with a current student, you can be admitted as a guest, but that isn’t true everywhere.

Another important reminder is that Harvard’s campus is a place where people live and work year-round, so as a visitor, you’ll need to be respectful of those who call the school home. In the past, students have complained of visitors blocking important pathways — a real hassle when you’re rushing to class — or even taking pictures through dorm windows. New policies posted on campus make the rules clear , but it’s mostly a matter of common sense.

Now that we’ve dispensed with the practical advice, here are a few things you may like to add to your agenda while you’re on Harvard’s campus.

Harvard Yard

It may seem like a bit of a cliché to start with Harvard Yard, as it’s arguably the most recognizable part of the Harvard campus. However, this area is genuinely important for you to see as a prospective applicant, not least because it’s the area in which all first-year students live. If you attend Harvard, you’ll spend a lot of time in Harvard Yard that year — there’s no way around it.

After the first year, Harvard’s students enter residential colleges that are scattered across the campus, but they still have plenty of reasons to go back to the Yard. Not only do student events take place there, but it’s a great place to kick back and read a book. It’s also centrally located, so walking through the Yard is often the most convenient way to get somewhere you need to be.

Allston Campus

Right across the Charles River from Harvard Square, you’ll find Allston, a neighborhood that’s technically part of Boston. This area has long had a Harvard presence — it’s the location of the Harvard Business School campus, as well as Harvard’s stadium and other athletic facilities.

More recently, the Allston campus has become the site of a great deal of expansion and development on Harvard’s part. Ongoing projects and those in the planning stages will move many of the university’s engineering and computer science resources to Allston under the auspices of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. These are popular and expanding fields, so you may well spend time on that side of the river as a student.

The Allston campus is still a work in progress, but if you’d like to explore it, it’s easy to get to from Harvard Square. Multiple bridges make the area accessible on foot, by bus, or by car. Students, faculty, and staff also enjoy the use of a free shuttle that runs at regular intervals throughout the day.

Graduate School Campuses

As you may know, Harvard University is made up of twelve distinct degree-granting schools , most of which are graduate or professional programs. Each of these schools, from the Law School to the Divinity School to the School of Public Health, has spaces of its own on campus, whether large or small. Some are restricted to students from those programs, but some are open to the entire Harvard community.

You most likely won’t take courses at the graduate or professional schools while you’re an undergraduate at Harvard, but you may find yourself heading there for an event or navigating that section of campus on the way to somewhere else. These less central areas of campus can also be great places to find new study spots, explore different dining options, or see some impressive architecture and landscaping.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

Tucked away on the third floor of one of Harvard’s academic buildings, this small museum is nonetheless a gem — and not just because it’s home to a wide variety of mineral samples. You’ll also find treasures like massive whale skeletons, meteorites you can touch, an interactive simulation of the process of natural selection, and a world-renown collection of incredibly delicate glass models of plant specimens.

The Harvard Museum of Natural History is open to the public, and students and other Harvard affiliates enjoy free admission. Your ticket also gives you access to Harvard’s Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology , which houses an exceptional collection of historic artifacts from around the world.

Things to See Off Campus

Though Harvard is primarily located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the city of Boston itself is just across the river, easily accessible by bus or subway. (Driving is also possible, but traffic in the area is often heavy.) Cambridge has many of its own amenities, but the proximity of the larger city opens up additional possibilities, both for you as a student in the future and for you as a visitor right now.

Harvard Square

It would be nearly impossible to visit Harvard without walking through Harvard Square, which refers to the neighborhood around the Harvard Square subway and bus station. Located right in the center of campus, the square is an entertainment hub as well as a place where the Harvard community takes care of everyday errands, so if you end up attending Harvard, you’ll spend a lot of time here.

There’s always something new and exciting going on in Harvard Square, but you’ll also find fixtures like charming cafes, eclectic shops, and restaurants across the spectrum from cheap bites to exceptional cuisine. In the center of everything, don’t miss Out of Town News, an iconic news kiosk carrying a huge variety of periodicals.

Of course, being so close to such an intellectual powerhouse, Harvard Square’s amenities tend toward the intellectual side of life. The Harvard Coop, the official bookstore, is right down the street from The Harvard Book Store, which is not affiliated with Harvard. Both, however, are interesting places to browse, buy souvenirs, and get a better sense of Harvard Square’s atmosphere.

The Charles River

As we’ve mentioned, the Charles River acts as a boundary line between the cities of Cambridge and Boston. Besides being an unavoidable geographical feature of the Boston area, the river and its adjacent green spaces are popular for recreation, with paths for pedestrians and cyclists as well as boating, sightseeing, and picnicking opportunities.

Festivals and other public events also take place along the Charles, the best-known of which may be the annual Head of the Charles Regatta . This major annual rowing competition attracts huge crowds and competitors from around the world each October. Even if you’re not particularly interested in rowing, it’s an exciting and traditional part of life in Cambridge.

The Freedom Trail

One of the Boston area’s greatest claims to fame is its long history, particularly its importance during the American Revolutionary War. Many visitors to the area are eager to see what relics remain in existence from those foundational times. The Freedom Trail , a designated path through the city that passes by 16 important historical sites, is a convenient way to get a cohesive look at Boston’s past.

The Freedom Trail, which is marked along its length with a red-painted line on the ground, is a 2.5-mile-long walking trail that winds from Boston Common on one end to the Bunker Hill Monument and the U.S.S. Constitution on the other end. Y ou can take an official walking tour with a costumed tour guide or explore the trail on your own. Either way, you’ll have a unique opportunity to see the real-life sites of the events you’ve learned about in your American history classes.

Boston Common

This lovely public park in the center of Boston is a popular destination, both for casual relaxation and for large-scale community events like festivals, rallies, parades, and performances. Across the street, there’s even more green space: the Boston Public Gardens, another public park that’s more formally landscaped than the Common. It’s easily accessible by public transit and close to many other attractions in downtown Boston.

On the Common, you’ll find a number of different features, including public art, memorials and monuments, and a playground. In the winter, it’s home to an outdoor ice-skating rink and the city’s annual Christmas tree. It’s also a great place to view the Massachusetts State House, a beautiful historical building topped with an impressive golden dome.

Newbury Street

If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy in a classically Bostonian setting, Newbury Street is the place to be. This street in the Back Bay area of downtown Boston is packed with shops, cafes, restaurants, and other destinations, many of them in charming brick-and-stone row houses built in the late 1800s and later converted into retail space. 

Newbury Street is well known as home to some of Boston’s chicest — and most expensive — shopping destinations, but there are options along this block of shops for every budget. Even if you’re just window-shopping, it’s an enjoyable place to spend an afternoon enjoying the sights and sounds of Boston.

While we can’t possibly list everything there is to see when you visit Harvard, we hope this post can get you started on planning a trip that really helps you get to know the college and the surrounding community. We encourage you to do your research, seek out more destinations that reflect your interests, and have a great time!

If you’re currently embroiled in the process of preparing for and applying to college, you know full well that it can be complex and stressful — especially if you’re applying to prestigious, highly competitive schools with low acceptance rates and high standards.

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Where can i find a tour of harvard’s campus.

A tour is a great way to get to know the campus! Harvard Information Center, located in the Smith Campus Center, offers free student-led walking tours through Harvard Yard. Tours are one hour and provide a general overview of the main Cambridge camps and University history. The Information Center also has maps for self-guided walking tours. For details and schedule, as well as links to tour information at the graduate schools go here . The Admissions Office offers separate tours for prospective students.

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Everything about tourist attractions

Harvard Tours – tickets, prices, discounts, what to expect

If you couldn’t make it to Harvard University, then worry not! You can still explore the campus – just book a  through Harvard Campus Tour. 

A Harvard tour gives you insights into campus life and tells you why it is the best institute in the world. 

The tour revolves around exploring Harvard History, Harvard Culture, and Famous Harvardians.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Harvard Campus Tour.

Top Harvard Tours

#  70-minute group tour

Table of contents

What to expect, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, harvard tour ticket prices, harvard tour tickets, where do harvard tours start from, how long does the harvard tour last, is a tour of harvard worth it, sites you will see on the harvard tour, what to bring on the tour, things to know before starting a tour, faqs about the harvard walking tour.

The Harvard tours introduce you to the dynamic Harvard History, Harvard Culture, and Famous Harvardians. 

Harvard campus tour covers many landmarks such as Harvard Square, Harvard Yard, the John Harvard Statue (the university founder), Harvard Lampoon, and many more. 

All the tour guides are Harvard students who are charismatic, engaging, and enthusiastic. 

These guides make Harvard tours more like a show or a theatre filled with non-stop fun and entertainment. 

With the students’ guides by your side, you get to learn interesting facts about the university, its hidden secrets, and stories of popular Harvardians like Mark Zuckerberg, Barack Obama, Conan O’Brien, and many more. 

Harvard tours are designed to entertain both adults and children. AAA Magazine called them “great for families!” The tour guides cater to guests of all ages and families. 

Tickets for the Harvard tour are available to be purchased at the attraction or online in advance.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the attraction.

When you buy online, you can avoid standing in long queues and wasting time.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, they may sell out during peak days. Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.

Go to the Harvard tour booking page , select your preferred date and time and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets via email.

You don’t need to carry printouts.

Show the smartphone tickets at the meeting point on the day of your visit and begin your adventure.

Adult tickets for the Harvard Tour are available for US$23 for visitors aged between 18 and 64 years.

For children between four and 17 years of age, tickets are available for US$21.

Senior Citizens aged 65 and above can get the tickets for US$22.

Infants up to three years of age do not require a ticket.

Experience Harvard University like never before with a guided walking tour.

Explore the campus while learning about the oldest university in the USA and its notable landmarks.

The tour will be led by a student guide who will share interesting anecdotes about life at Harvard.

In addition, the ticket also includes an illustrated map of Harvard Square.

The tour route covers a distance of less than one mile.

Ticket Prices

Adult ticket (18 to 64 years): US$23 Senior ticket (65+ years): US$22 Child ticket (4 to 17 years): US$21 Infant tickets (up to 3 years): Free

Along with their Harvard Campus Tour, some tourists prefer to book a group tour of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology .

The Harvard campus tour starts from Harvard Square. 

Located at the junction of Massachusetts Avenue, Brattle Street, and John F. Kennedy Street, Harvard Square is thronged by visitors, students, and artists daily. 

You’ll find your tour guides outside the Harvard Red Line Subway Station next to the Out of Town News Kiosk. Get Directions

The closest street address is 1380 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138.

The 70-minute Harvard Tour is available throughout the week.

Visitors can choose between tour slots starting at 10 am and continuing every half hour till 4.30 pm. 

The Harvard walking tour lasts for about 70 minutes. 

There are umpteen stops on the 1-mile (1.6 km) long tour.

The tour guides will tell you the stories and significance of various landmarks you pass by.  

Established in 1636, Harvard is America’s oldest university and perhaps the most famous institution of higher education on the planet. Harvard is very much worth visiting.

This prestigious university contains tall buildings, libraries packed with books, and iconic sites that are breathtaking. 

Whether you’re a student or not, the campus has much to please your mind and soul. 

Since the students will walk you through the campus, you get an insider perspective about the university. 

All of this makes the Harvard Tour worth your money and time.

You’ll walk through the university gates, around the yard, and past some historic buildings with Harvard Tour guides. 

The major sites covered under Harvard Tours are:

Harvard Square

It is a commercial center in Cambridge with streets lined with cafes, restaurants, retail stores, cinemas, and bookstores. 

Johnston Gate

This majestic gate takes you to the world of knowledge and wisdom. It is one of the many doorways to Harvard Yard.

Harvard Yard

It is the heart of Harvard University, enclosed by wrought iron fences, walls, and a thick canopy of trees. The John Harvard Statue is situated in this beautiful yard. 

Science Center

It is a place for science and math buffs who experiment and do research.

Memorial Hall

The cornerstone of the building was laid in 1870 in memory of those who laid down their lives during the Civil War. 

New College Theatre

It hosts several theatrical and musical performances of Harvard students every year. NCT is also open to the general public to enjoy the performances of Harvard-affiliated groups and performers. 

The Harvard Lampoon

Sometimes referred to as “Lampoon Castle,” this sturdy castle consists of an office, library, dining hall, and a lounge. It is famous for publishing comic and humor magazines. 

Lowell Bell Tower

This blue-capped bell tower is in proximity to Harvard Yard and Harvard Square. It houses the iconic Russian bells.

It is better to come prepared for the weather to avoid surprises.

When coming for the tour, you can bring along the following items-

• Comfortable shoes

Before starting the campus tour, keep in mind the following points-

• The tour will go on despite rain or sunshine.
• Reach the tour’s starting point (Harvard Square) at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time. 

The tour does not take you inside any of the buildings.

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before taking the Harvard Walking Tour.

The tour includes a guided walk through Harvard Yard and visits to various historic buildings on campus.

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Yes, it is best to buy tickets in advance to ensure availability and have a hassle-free experience.

The tours last approximately 70 minutes.

Yes, the tours are wheelchair accessible.

Yes, you can bring a backpack or bag on the tour, but it will be subject to security screening.

Yes, there is a gift shop at the Harvard University Information Center where you can purchase souvenirs and other items related to Harvard University.

No, pets are not allowed on the tour.

Yes, cameras are allowed, and visitors are free to take photographs.

Yes, restrooms are available at the Harvard University Information Center.

Sources # College.harvard.edu # Harvard.edu # Apply.college.harvard.edu # Seas.harvard.edu The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

Popular attractions in Boston

# Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum # Boston Trolley Tours # New England Aquarium # Boston Ghost Tours # Zoo New England # Codzilla Boston # Fenway Park tours # Boston Harbor Cruises # Whale Watching in Boston # Harvard Tours # Boston Duck Tours

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This article was researched & written by

Nishtha Nogia

Nishtha Nogia loves to explore new places with family and friends. She travels to weave stories packed with fun, surprises, and laughter. For her, traveling is all about hogging local cuisines, interacting with people, and creating lifelong memories. She has a travel bucket list ready and is waiting to start ticking them one by one. Favourite Cities: Seoul, Paris, New York, and Istanbul.

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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How To Visit Harvard On Your Next Trip To Boston

On your next trip to Boston, why not take the opportunity to visit the iconic Harvard University? Getting there is quite easy and so worth it!

I did it myself and it was so fun to see the most famous university in the world in person. (:

In this post, you will read about how to visit Harvard and take a free tour of the university.

Plan your Perfect trip to Boston

🏨 Find the perfect hotel on  Booking.com

🎫 If you’d like to go on fun tours, check out the best tours to take in Boston

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Why Visit Harvard University

First, because visiting Harvard is one of the best things to do in Boston and it is a gorgeous place to visit all year round, I got to see the campus covered in snow, and it was so beautiful!

Second, if you never had the opportunity to attend one, exploring an Ivy League school is an interesting and unique experience.

Anyone can visit Harvard University and see with his own eyes the school chosen by brilliant minds like Barack Obama, Bill Gates, and George W. Bush.

How To Get To Harvard From Boston

The best way to get to Harvard is by driving, taking uber or public transportation.

I went with public transportation and getting there was easy peasy:

Public transportation

Boston’s public transportation system is very efficient and easy to understand. Taking the subway is a fast and cheap way to get to Harvard.

All you have to do is get to a subway station where you can take the Red Line and then get off at Harvard Station.

Climb the stairs and you will already find yourself right in front of the university, in Harvard Square.

Harvard Address

For those who prefer to go drive or take an uber the university’s address is Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.

In case you are driving, you might be asking yourself where to park to visit Harvard. Well, these are some commercial parking lots and garages where you can park:

• Smith Campus Center Parking Garage (managed by Propark)
• Harvard Square Parking Garage
• University Place Parking Garage
• Charles Square Garage
• Church Street Parking Lot
• Harvard Square Hotel

The history of Harvard University

According to Best College Reviews , Harvard University possesses the title of America’s oldest learning institution, founded in 1636.

In the beginning, its name was New College and was built mainly to educate clergy. In 1639, the school’s name became Harvard University, name after John Harvard, who donated half of his estate and his entire library to the school upon his death.

Taking A Tour of Harvard University

The best way to visit the Harvard Campus is by taking a student-led tour.

The tours last around 70 minutes and include a map of the campus.

When I did it, a very nice student called Jack showed us around and took us to one of the libraries (so beautiful!), the science building, the dorms, and so much more.

He also taught us about the university traditions and ended the tour on the famous statue of John Harvard.

It was such a fun experience!

What To Visit in Harvard Square

After you visit the university, you might as well make the most out of your day trip and stroll around the historic neighborhood of Harvard Square.

Some of the best things to do in Harvard Square include:

• Visiting one of the many souvenir stores
• Buy a book at the Harvard Book Store
• Catch a movie at the Brattle Theater
• Brunch at Henrietta’s Table

Other cool things to do in Boston

Besides visiting Harvard, there are many other fun and unique experience to have in Boston!

Here are some of my favorite:

Cruise along Charles River

Hop into a duck boat—renovated World War II amphibious vehicle—for a comprehensive tour of Boston. Pass Boston Common, Quincy Market, and the Celtics’ home turf at TD Garden. Then splash down into the Charles River for a view of the city by boat. Learn all about Boston’s history and landmarks as you go.

Go on a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard

Join Boston’s only award-winning, original, Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip! Leave the trouble of driving to someone else and enjoy a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard from Boston.

Then, take a short cruise to Martha’s Vineyard then enjoy free time to explore or upgrade to add an island tour.

Go on a Ghosts & Gravestones Night-Time Trolley Tour

Discover some of Boston’s deepest, darkest secrets on a “frightseeing” tour aboard the Trolley of the Doomed, which roams around the haunted streets and burial grounds of Boston

Tour Fenway Park, America’s most beloved ballpark

Revel in the history of Fenway Park, one of baseball’s most beloved stadiums, during this guided tour.

Revisit the careers of Red Sox greats like Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, and Carl Yastrzemski, celebrate the club’s numerous World Series titles and tour famous stadium locales like the ‘Green Monster,’ ‘Pesky’s Pole,’ and the Fenway Park Living Museum.

That’s a wrap! I hope this guide was useful to you and that you have a lovely time at the most famous university in the world.

Remember to send this post to any of your friends that still don’t know how to visit Harvard and follow me on Instagram for more travel tips (:

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[…] Going on a day trip to Harvard is an absolute must if this is your first time in Boston! The university is one of the most iconic in the world and it offers student-led free tours. You can see how to take one of those right here. […]

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[…] How to visit Harvard: taking a free tour of the university […]

This is so awesome! I’d love to visit Harvard one day and meet some of the brilliant minds who study there.

Camila Neves

I highly recommend it!! 🙂

Rebecca Scholes

We loved Harvard when we visited, would love to have done a tour. And Boston is one of our all time favourite American Cities, love it 😍

Daniel Barker

Love to visit the campus again and again. It’s the place from where many histories begin

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Harvard Campus Cambridge Self-Guided Walking Tour

Tour Details

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Welcome to the harvard yard tour.

Visit the heart of Harvard University’s campus in Cambridge: Harvard Yard! This Harvard tour covers must-see campus sights like the John Harvard Statue, Widener Library, and former dorms of famous alumni like Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Natalie Portman, and more. Explore Harvard’s history, legacy, and fame in full.

About the tour

Dive into the heart of Harvard University in Cambridge with our self-guided, app-based walking tour. Please start at the beautiful Johnston Gate and hear about the strange superstition surrounding it before moving on to the most expensive building at Harvard. Here’s a hint: it’s not what you think!

Next, stride back in time as you cross the Old Yard itself and get a crash course in Harvard’s 1600s origins and their struggles in keeping up with a rapidly changing nation. Did you know when Harvard first started teaching women, the administration insisted they had to be kept in a separate building from the men?

The next stop is a statue of John Harvard himself. This historic landmark stands as a daunting symbol of what this impressive figure accomplished. But there’s also something totally incorrect about it. Can you guess what it is? Download the tour to know more!

Then, you’ll move on to the Harvard Science Center, where you can glimpse the high-tech classrooms where students like Gates and Zuckerberg would have spent most of their time. This multi-story building serves as an impressive melding of history and the cutting edge.

After that, you’ll get a chance to see the awe-inspiring Memorial Church, and stand right in the spot where countless famous names from Oprah to Bill Clinton have stood! Then it’s off to the Widener Library, home to 3.5 million books and even more history. Here, you’ll get to know the man the library’s named for and understand why he was such an important part of Harvard’s story.

Finally, on the Harvard Tour, we’ll visit the dorms where so many famous figures have lived, studied, and built the foundations of great things.

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Where to start?

Starting Point Address: Johnston Gate, 1465 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138

How does it work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Johnston gate.

Welcome to Harvard! Our tour begins at the iconic Johnson Gate, where Harvard freshmen also begin their college experience. We'll make our way into the Yard, which represents the heart of Harvard's campus. Along the way, we'll learn about how Harvard came to be.

John Harvard Statue

The centerpiece of Harvard's Yard is the statue of John Harvard... who actually didn't found the university! As we dive into the university's early years, we'll also learn about when and how the all-male college integrated women.

Harvard Science Center

Our tour continues past two picturesque student dorms - Mower and Holworthy. We'll learn about their significance and then continue to the famed Harvard Science Center.

Harvard Memorial Hall

Next up: the imposing High Victorian Gothic Memorial Hall. This is the most beautiful building on campus, without contest.

Memorial Church

Our Harvard tour continues to Memorial Church and into the New Yard. We'll discover some significant Harvard history and sights along the way.

Widener Library

Here we'll admire the gorgeous Widener Library and learn all about the eclectic Wideners..

Our tour continues beyond the Library and towards more dorms. First up: Weld Hall, once home to President JFK. As we check out the beautiful architecture, we'll also learn about the dorm's other famous residents.

Wigglesworth Hall

Then we continue to Wigglesworth Hall, Bill Gates' once-domain. We'll learn about Gates and other notable alumni who lived in this dorm.

Prefer someone more recent? Gray's Hall was home to Malia Obama.... and a couple other names you're sure to recognize.

Matthews Hall

That brings us to Matthews Hall, where Matt Damon once lived!

Straus Hall

And we can't forget Straus Hall, once home to Mark Zuckerberg. And so many others too! Our tour continues through campus, exploring traditions and anecdotes until we're almost back to where we started: Johnson Gate.

Preview The Tour

  what is the significance of harvard university.

Harvard University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States, known for its rich history, academic excellence, and influential alumni.

  How can I explore Harvard’s campus on a self-guided tour?

Exploring Harvard’s campus on a self-guided tour allows you to discover iconic buildings, historic sites, and learn about the university’s history and achievements.

  What are some must-see landmarks on Harvard’s campus?

Must-see landmarks on Harvard’s campus include Harvard Yard, Memorial Hall, Widener Library, the John Harvard Statue, and the Science Center Plaza.

  Can I visit Harvard’s libraries and museums as a tourist?

Some of Harvard’s libraries and museums are open to the public, offering visitors a chance to explore rare collections, art exhibits, and academic resources.

  What is Harvard Yard, and why is it famous?

Harvard Yard is the historic center of Harvard’s campus, known for its picturesque lawns, historic buildings, and the iconic John Harvard Statue.

  Can I take photographs on Harvard’s campus?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs on Harvard’s campus, but be sure to respect any posted guidelines or restrictions.

  Are there any restrictions on accessing certain parts of Harvard’s campus?

While many parts of Harvard’s campus are open to the public, some areas may have restricted access due to academic or security reasons.

  What is the best time to visit Harvard’s campus?

Harvard’s campus is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall are popular times to visit when the weather is pleasant and the campus is bustling with activity.

  Are there any historical events associated with Harvard’s campus?

Yes, Harvard’s campus has been witness to various historical events, including speeches by prominent figures and student-led movements.

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Take A Harvard Campus Tour on Your Visit to Boston

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It’s time to get wicked smart on your trip to Boston . A visit to the wonderful city of Boston wouldn’t be complete without taking a Harvard campus tour. After all, there’s so much history there.

I really wanted to visit Harvard University when I was in Boston. But I didn’t actually realize you could take a tour and walk around the university. In fact, the tours are run by students. What a great idea!

I was hoping for some serious osmosis just by being in the vicinity of this world renowned college. Still waiting for that to kick in – let’s hope you have more luck. But if you want to give it a go, keep reading to find more about this fun, unique tour.

Where is Harvard?

Harvard University is in Cambridge Massachusetts , on the other side of the river to Boston . Also in Cambridge is MIT (the Massachusetts Institute of Technology). That’s a lot of smart people in one small place.

Cambridge is a short distance from downtown Boston and is a stop on most city tours. I took a hop on-hop off bus tour when I was there with my parents and we could get off to walk around Cambridge and Harvard before getting back on.

How do I get there?

If you are not taking part in one of these bus tours , then you can still easily get to Harvard. The university has a stop on the red line of the MBTA subway. Clearly marked as Harvard you can’t get off at the wrong stop. If you do, then you might not be Harvard material.

The train journey is less than 15 minutes from downtown Boston if you’re along the Red Line . I stayed at the Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel, where there was a Green Line subway right outside. I connected at Park Street station and was there in only 20 minutes.

How much is the tour?

The Harvard campus tour is $20-25 for adults, costs can sometimes vary by day or season. We didn’t book our tickets in advance, but if you are traveling in the summer months when it might be busier this could be a good idea.

Gratuities are not included, but this is a fully guided tour and the students who lead the tours work really hard at delivering the best tour possible . So this is a really reasonable price for what you learn. To book your tour in advance, check out this Viator link .

What time does the Harvard campus tour run?

The tours go multiple times a day, seven days a week. From December to February inclusive the tours are more limited so make sure to check in advance. But all other times of year there are at least 4 or 5 tour start times. In the summer months June to August there are about a dozen times with the tour leaving every half hour between 10am and 4pm .

Will there be a lot of walking?

The Harvard campus tour is just over an hour long. It starts right outside the subway station and you’ll walk in through the university gates, around the yard and past some of the more historic buildings.

All in all you end up walking about a mile, but there are plenty of stops to listen to stories and the guides walk at a relaxed pace . We had a large group and no-one had trouble keeping up. We spent time around the college both before and after our tour though, so if you plan on doing the same make sure you have comfortable footwear.

Tell me more about Harvard

I thought you’d never ask! Well, I don’t want to give away all of the tour information, but I can tell you a couple of things about Harvard University that I found interesting.

As a total bibliophile I was amazed at how many books this university holds. I bet you can’t guess. Well there are 77 libraries. That’s right SEVENTY SEVEN! Between them all they hold over 18 million books .

The biggest of these libraries is Widener Library holding over 3 million books by itself. It goes six stories down and you’d walk two marathons (52 miles) to go past the same book twice if you went around it all. Harry Elkins Widener was a book collector who died in the Titanic disaster of 1912, and the library was commissioned by his mother in his honor.

Harvard University has had a number of famous residents. 8 US Presidents studied here, as well as countless other notable figures . Not all of the famous attendees finished studying at Harvard – Matt Damon and Mark Zuckerberg included. Although this is the university where Facebook began.

In Harvard Yard is a statue that has one foot much shinier than the rest of the statue. This is the statue of John Harvard, one of the founders of Harvard college. Touching his left foot is apparently lucky, hence the one shiny foot.

The biggest issue with the statue though is not the misdirected faith in good fortune coming from touching it, but that this is not actually John Harvard. See, when the statue was commissioned over 200 years after his death, they realized no-one knew what he looked like. So this statue takes inspiration from a descendant of one of the college’s earlier Presidents instead.

So what do you see on the Harvard campus tour?

Well our tour started with a walk through the side of Johnston Gate, the large wrought iron gate that leads to Harvard Yard. Most of the time the gate is closed. Why? Well because if you haven’t guessed it yet, there are a few superstitions when it comes to Harvard.

A big one is that you should only pass through the gate twice. Once on your first day as a Freshman, the next after you graduate. Any more and it’s considered bad luck.

We walked past the office of the President of Harvard, and into the main Harvard Yard. Here we were told about the people who have studied here and they told us a bit about the student housing (and the luck of the draw that comes with it).

We saw the statue of John Harvard. Well, almost (see above). Then walked through the yard, and across campus to the are that holds Praine Hall and the Sanders Theater, two of the larger structures where students gather for concerts and events.

Continuing around the perimeter we passed old buildings, museums and learned historic facts about the great university. I feel like I knew Harvard just by seeing it in so many movies. Channeling my inner Elle Woods, I soaked up as much Harvard knowledge as I could during this impressive Harvard campus tour.

What about the tour guide?

As I mentioned before the tour guides are all students. So what does this mean? Well it means they know a heck of a lot about this university. They eat, breathe and sleep Harvard. They worked their asses off to get there, and the excitement and pride shows in every story they tell . Our guide was incredibly personable and informative, and kept us all smiling throughout.

She was originally from Colorado and told us all about her dream to go to Harvard, the application process and the benefits of studying at Harvard. What I found most impressive is that Harvard is one of the top universities that is supported by financial aid for students.

Any student whose family earns less than $60,000 a year does not have to pay for tuition. While attending Harvard is by no means a free ride (accommodation and school supplies still add up), it is good to know that you don’t have to come from an investment banker family to be able to afford one of America’s top colleges.

Where can I buy some Harvard swag?

After the tour of the inner Harvard campus, the tour heads out into the streets of Cambridge , the small university town where the college is located. We had a number of shops, restaurants and pubs pointed out to us. But at the end of the Harvard campus tour we were taken to the Harvard shop where we said goodbye to our tour guide, and hello to Harvard branded everything .

Sweaters, t-shirts, mugs, stickers…you name it! If you want anything with a giant H on it, you’re in luck. Some of the items are more reasonably priced than others but a sweater is most likely going to set you back about $50.

Read more about some of the best food in Boston including Mike’s Pastry located in Cambridge, right outside of Harvard University .

Should I do this Harvard campus tour?

If you’re visiting Boston and you have an afternoon free then definitely. The first time I was in Boston I didn’t get to Harvard as I thought it was quite far. Boy was I wrong, it was super easy to get to. I’m glad I managed to get there though, and this tour was one of the best things I did in the city. It was unique and informative, and the students who run these tours are champs.

I would highly recommend you take this tour if you’re visiting Boston. Prepare to get smarter, and when you get home you can honestly use the phrase “well, when I was at Harvard…”. They don’t know you were only there for an afternoon!

If you’ve enjoyed this post leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Have you taken a Harvard campus tour? Or something similar?

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10 thoughts on “Take A Harvard Campus Tour on Your Visit to Boston”

I’ve been on the Harvard campus a few times but never realized there was a tour available. Seems like a great way to understand the history of the place.

Great detailed info! I didn’t know about the Harvard Tour when I visited Boston in October.

So cool that you can do a tour run by students! Definitely something I’d love to do when I’m in the area!

Wow, what a neat thing to be able to do! And such great information. Thanks so much for sharing 🙂

This is so fascinating!! I would absolutely love to visit Harvard and do the campus tour one day!

Woah I never thought Harvard had that many libraries! That’s wild! I love how thorough this guide is- this really seems like a must- do for a trip to Boston

Flashback!! I’ve been to Boston almost 10 years ago, visiting a friend back then. We also stopped by Harvard.

This is awesome! My son is going to graduate school at Boston University in the fall and I’m excited about visiting this famous campus!

A place with so much history! It’s somewhere I’ll definitely make sure to visit when I get to Boston. That’s so many books!

Thanks for the great article! I recently visited Boston and had the opportunity to take a Harvard campus tour. It was an amazing experience! The tour guide was very knowledgeable and gave us a great overview of the history and culture of the university. I was also able to explore the beautiful grounds and take in the stunning architecture. It was a great way to get a feel for the campus and learn more about Harvard. Highly recommend taking a tour if you’re ever in Boston!

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Do you have to do a guided tour or can you just...

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Harvard University Questions & Answers

Do you have to do a guided tour or can you just have a wander around?

Easy to wonder around Harvard Yard. Which is actually the grass area surrounded by mostly freshman dorms. Has these colorful movable chairs to rest on. Nice Shaded area. The main part of Harvard is around this area.

All of this is adjacent to Harvard Sq.(lots of activity--restaurants, shops, and often street entertainment. The T stop is right in the middle of Harvard Sq.)

Just know that Harvard is spread among the streets of this area.

A number of dorms and buildings are on the streets in Harvard Sq. not just in the Harvard Yard area. In fact the Law school is past Harvard sq. going toward Porter Sq.(not as far as Porter Sq. but in that direction). The Business School along with the athletic fields are across the Charles River.

(Harvard Stadium is there).

There are these guys wearing large straw hats that do a tour of Harvard.

Not a bad tour.(While I know the area, I did follow their tour) They are fews(or at least were when I did it). You just tip them at the end.

You could also go on an admissions tour from the admissions office--not sure when they are offered or what they are like. Of course you would then have to listen to admission information. Hope you enjoy the area!

You can wonder around on your own as well. However I would suggest get a tour of the campus for $10~15, will give you a better perspective and history of the institution.

wander round. You can go into some buildings including the church/chapel and an art gallery. Be nosey.

Wander to your heart's content [but reading up on the history of the University first would help make your wanderings more... enjoyable / informative].

no you don't have to do a guided tour, but certainly depends on your mobility and research. we googled historic info and walked around to see the various points of interest. WE also walked the approx. 5 mi to and from the mt auburn cemetery and were rewarded with a wonderful walk on Historic Brattle street. certainly a guide offers information on the spot and perhaps there may be some admissions included, but there is a lot to be said about roaming

You can definitely just walk around, although you'll learn more of the history if you do the guided tours. There's also a self-guided "Harvard Tour" app on the iPhone I once used that wasn't too bad. Can't remember if it cost anything, but even if it did, it was probably only a buck or two.

I'd say wander. There may be guided tours if you ask the Admissions department

You can wander round but the guide does t cost much and worth it for the info you get

You can wonder around. No problem. Harvard Yard is easy to see and has these colorful moveable chairs to rest on. I would wonder around there often when pushing my granddaughter in her stroller. Harvard is spread around a number of streets. It is not a self contained univ. their dormitories are mingled in with the streets of Cambridge within the vicinity of Harvard

Square. In fact the grad. business school and football field and other athletic facilities are across the Charles river.

There is a informal Harvard tour by these guys in these large straw hats that was free except for a tip at the end.

Also you might want to go on a tour from the admission office. Of course you will have to hear admission info besides the tour.

Harvard square itself is a fun place. Lots of activity. Tons of restaurants and interesting shops. Often there are street entertainers and people watching. The T has a stop right in the middle.

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Ask a question.

Get quick answers from Harvard University staff and past visitors.

Private tour group providers

This information is for private tour providers not associated with Harvard University. If you are an individual looking for a tour, please visit our Tours page.

At this time, Cambridge and Boston tour companies who wish to lead tours of visitors through Harvard Yard are required to register with the Harvard University Visitor Center.

For further inquiry, please contact: [email protected]

Registration process

Apply to be a registered Harvard Yard Tour Provider

To register:

• Fill out the application.
• Submit a copy of a business license (in Cambridge or Boston) and proof of insurance.
• Allow up two weeks for the authorization process.

Once approved:

• The Harvard University Visitor Center will provide a physical “Welcome Packet” to the tour company.
• Sign the Harvard Yard Use Agreement.
• The tour company will be directed to the online payment system, where tour passes must be purchased at least three days in advance for the desired tour date (currently through the end of the semester).

Before the tour:

• Prior to coming to campus, the tour company must review the Harvard Yard Guidelines and go to Visit Harvard for any updated campus information.
• The tour company will use Touchnet, the online payment system, to purchases passes for the current semester at least three days in advance of the desired tour date.
• A Harvard Yard Tour Pass purchase requires a non-refundable payment of $1.50 per tour attendee.
• The tour company will receive a PDF file of the Harvard Yard Tour Pass within three business days.
• The tour company must print the Harvard Yard Tour Pass in color and it must be visibly worn on the tour group leader at all times while in Harvard Yard. Lanyards and other tour materials may be found in the “Welcome Packet.”

Keep in mind:

• Occasionally the Yard closes for University activities. If this conflicts with a tour you have sign up for, your payment will be refunded.
• Tour groups can include up to 35 people.
• The tour company may offer up to one tour per day in Harvard Yard, as space is available.
• The tour company may offer tours in Harvard Yard between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
• The tour company must remain in good standing in order to annually renew the Harvard Yard Use Agreement.

Frequently asked questions

Who has to register to provide tours in harvard yard.

At this time, Cambridge and Boston Tour Companies who wish to lead tours of visitors through Harvard Yard are required to register with the Harvard University Visitor Center.

Can You Visit Harvard Without a Tour? Exploring Your Options

Harvard University is one of the most prestigious and recognizable universities in the world. It is known for its iconic architecture, impressive academic accomplishments, and rich history. 

Many people dream of visiting Harvard and exploring the campus. However, some may wonder if it is possible to visit Harvard without a tour.

The answer is yes; it is possible to visit Harvard without a tour. While Harvard offers official guided tours of the campus, visitors are also welcome to explore the campus independently. 

Harvard Yard, the historic heart of the university, is open to the public, and visitors can walk around the area freely. Freshman dorms surround the Yard and have colorful movable chairs where visitors can rest and enjoy the scenery.

Visitors can also download a self-guided campus map to navigate and learn about Harvard’s landmarks. The map includes information about the university’s history and architecture, as well as recommendations for places to visit. 

Additionally, the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) offers supplemental tours that visitors can register for directly through the school.

Table of Contents

Harvard University Overview

Harvard University, situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a prestigious private research university in the Ivy League. Established in 1636, it holds the distinction of being the United States’ oldest institution of higher education.

The university has a diverse student body of over 20,000 students, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students from all over the world.

Harvard University is famous for its excellent education, offering many different programs like law, medicine, business, and engineering. It has also had many famous alumni, including Nobel Prize winners and Pulitzer Prize winners.

The campus of Harvard University is spread across 209 acres and is home to numerous historic buildings, libraries, and research centers.

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The university is divided into ten different schools, including the Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, and the Harvard Medical School.

Visitors to Harvard University can explore the campus independently or take a guided tour led by current students.

The official Harvard tours provide visitors with a history of the university, information about the various schools and programs, and a unique view of the students’ experiences. 

The university also offers self-guided tours through its mobile app and provides visitors with a self-guided map to navigate the campus and learn about Harvard’s landmarks.

Visiting Harvard University

Harvard University is a prestigious institution that attracts visitors from all over the world. While many people prefer to take a guided tour of the campus, it is possible to visit Harvard without a tour.

One option for visitors is to explore the campus on their own. The Visit Harvard mobile app provides a self-guided tour of the campus, which includes information about Harvard’s landmarks, traditions, and history. 

Another option is to visit the Harvard University Visitor Center, located in the Smith Campus Center. The Visitor Center provides information about the campus, including maps, brochures, and other resources. 

Visitors can also take a free, student-led public walking tour through Harvard Yard, which provides a history of the university and general information about the campus.

If visitors are interested in a more in-depth campus tour, they can register for an official historical tour of Harvard.

Students lead these tours and provide a unique view of the student’s individual experience at the university. The tours are offered both in-person, on campus, and virtually.

When visiting Harvard, visitors must follow specific policies, such as not entering any Harvard administrative, academic, or residential building without a Harvard official, respecting all individuals and campus property, and maintaining respectful sound levels at all times. Visitors may also be required to wear face coverings inside some Harvard buildings.

Tour Options

Harvard University offers various ways for visitors to explore its campus. You can choose guided tours, self-guided tours, and even virtual tours.

Each of these options provides a distinct experience, giving you the freedom to explore the campus at your preferred pace.

Guided Tours

Experienced tour guides at the Harvard University Visitor Center lead visitors on informative tours, sharing the university’s rich history and highlighting its famous landmarks. Student guides officially conduct these tours.

These tours are typically 45 to 60 minutes long and provide visitors with an in-depth look at the university’s history, architecture, and student life. Visitors can also choose from several registered tour providers who offer guided tours of the campus.

Self-Guided Tours

For those who prefer to explore independently, self-guided tours are a great option. Visitors can download the Harvard Tour App, which provides a self-guided campus tour. 

The app includes a map of the campus and audio guides that provide information about the university’s history and notable landmarks.

Visitors can also pick up a self-guided tour brochure at the Harvard University Visitor Center.

Virtual Tours

Virtual tours offer visitors the opportunity to explore the campus from the comfort of their own homes.

The Harvard University website provides a virtual tour of the campus, which includes 360-degree views of notable landmarks and buildings. 

Visitors can also explore the Harvard Museum of Natural History through a virtual tour, which provides a detailed look at the museum’s exhibits.

Planning Your Visit

If you are planning to visit Harvard University, there are a few things you need to know before you go. Here is a brief guide to help you plan your visit.

Registration Process

To enter Harvard University, all visitors must register online in advance. This involves sharing your name, email, and the date and time of your visit.

It’s a good idea to do this at least a week before your planned visit to ensure you can join a campus tour.

Group Visits

If you are planning to visit Harvard University with a group, you can arrange for a group tour. Group tours are available for groups of 10 or more people. 

To arrange a group tour, contact the Harvard University Visitor Center at least two weeks in advance. Student guides lead group tours and are available Monday through Friday.

During the group tour, you will have the opportunity to see the main highlights of the campus, including Harvard Yard, the Science Center, and the Harvard Art Museums. The tour will also provide you with information about the history and culture of Harvard University.

Exploring the Campus

When visiting Harvard, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the campus without a tour guide. 

Key Locations

Harvard Yard is the university’s center and a great place to explore. The historic green space is home to several iconic buildings, including Massachusetts Hall, which is the oldest surviving building on campus.

The Smith Campus Center is also worth a visit, as it offers a variety of dining options and hosts events throughout the year.

Widener Library is another must-see location on campus. This massive library contains over 3.5 million books and is open to the public. Visitors can take a self-guided library tour or attend one of the many events and exhibitions.

Harvard Collections

Harvard has a vast collection of maps, archives, and other collections open to the public. The Harvard Map Collection is one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of maps in the world, with over 500,000 items.

Visitors can explore the collection online or visit the Map Collection in person to view maps and atlases worldwide.

Harvard University Archives offers an excellent resource for visitors. It houses a rich collection of historical documents, photographs, and materials connected to the university’s past. Guests can explore exhibits and participate in events and lectures tied to the archive’s collections.

Interacting with the Harvard Community

Visiting Harvard University without a tour does not mean that you cannot interact with the Harvard community. There are several ways to engage with students, faculty, and alumni during your visit.

Meeting the Students

Harvard University is home to over 6,700 undergraduate students from all over the world. These students are often happy to talk to visitors and share their experiences at Harvard. One of the best places to meet undergraduate students is in Harvard Square. 

Harvard Square is a bustling area with many shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is a popular spot for students to hang out, study, and grab a bite to eat.

Engaging with Faculty

Harvard University is also home to over 2,400 faculty members. These faculty members are experts in their fields and are often happy to talk to visitors about their research and teaching. 

If you’d like to meet with a faculty member during your visit, contact the department or school you want to visit, and they’ll help arrange a meeting with an available faculty member.

Harvard University has a large and active alumni community. If you are interested in meeting with alumni during your visit, contact the Harvard Alumni Association. They can help connect you with alumni available to meet and share their experiences at Harvard.

Harvard Square

Harvard Square is a vibrant and historic area just outside of Harvard Yard. It is home to many shops, restaurants, and cafes.

It is also home to several landmarks, including the Harvard Coop, the Harvard Art Museums, and the Harvard Book Store. Harvard Square is a great place to explore during your visit to Harvard University.

Admissions and Financial Aid

If you want to visit Harvard without a tour, learn about admissions and financial aid. 

Harvard College is highly prestigious, but getting in can be challenging. However, Harvard is dedicated to helping students from all backgrounds afford their education, and they offer various financial aid options.

To get information about applying for financial assistance, it’s an excellent plan to chat with an admissions officer. They can provide answers to your inquiries and assist you in crafting a robust application.

Harvard College provides financial aid through grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities to students who need it. 

They also don’t require students to take out loans to cover their costs. This makes their education more accessible to everyone.

Diversity at Harvard

Harvard University is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity within its community. 

The Office for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging collaborates with various university stakeholders and partners to steer Harvard’s culture toward achieving inclusive excellence.

Harvard boasts a varied student population, drawing students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries. 

In the fall of 2022, the undergraduate student body had the following composition: 22.8% Asian, 15.1% Black or African American, 14.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.8% Native American or Pacific Islander, and 44.8% White.

In addition to its diverse student body, Harvard has a diverse faculty. In the fall of 2022, the faculty was 25.9% Asian, 6.1% Black or African American, 7.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Native American or Pacific Islander, and 59.5% White.

Harvard offers various programs and efforts to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. For instance, students can access resources like the Harvard College Women’s Center, the Harvard Foundation for Intercultural and Race Relations, and the Office of BGLTQ Student Life.

Staying Connected

While visiting Harvard without a tour is possible, staying connected with the university can enhance the experience. Harvard has a solid social media presence, making it easy to keep up with the latest news and events.

One way to stay connected is by following Harvard on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. These accounts provide updates on events, news, and student life, as well as insights into the university’s research and academic programs.

Another way to stay connected is by subscribing to Harvard’s email newsletters. These newsletters cover various topics, from admissions and alumni news to research and events.

Subscribers can choose which newsletters they receive, ensuring they only receive updates on topics that interest them.

Visitors can also download the Visit Harvard mobile app, which offers a self-guided campus tour.

The app provides information on Harvard’s history, landmarks, and notable alumni and is a great way to explore the campus at your own pace.

Finally, visitors can connect with Harvard alumni in their area through the Harvard Alumni Association.

The association hosts events and programs worldwide, providing opportunities to meet and network with other Harvard alumni.

Mohammed Debon is an SEO Expert, Webmaster, and a proud parent of three. Mohammed created this website to help fellow parents find comprehensive information about various educational programs and make well-informed decisions for their children's future. With expertise in the digital landscape, Mohammed aims to streamline the process of selecting the right education system and provide valuable resources for parents worldwide.

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Harvard announces return to required testing

Leading researchers cite strong evidence that testing expands opportunity

Students applying to Harvard College for fall 2025 admission will be required to submit standardized test scores, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences announced on Thursday. This new policy will be applied to the Class of 2029 admissions cycle and will be formally assessed at regular intervals.

For the Class of 2029 admissions cycle, Harvard will require submission of scores for the SAT or ACT. In exceptional cases in which applicants are unable to access SAT or ACT testing, other eligible tests will be accepted.

In a message to the FAS community on Thursday, Edgerley Family Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Hopi Hoekstra foregrounded “a number of factors” that underscored the decision.

“Standardized tests are a means for all students, regardless of their background and life experience, to provide information that is predictive of success in college and beyond,” she said. “Indeed, when students have the option of not submitting their test scores, they may choose to withhold information that, when interpreted by the admissions committee in the context of the local norms of their school, could have potentially helped their application. In short, more information, especially such strongly predictive information, is valuable for identifying talent from across the socioeconomic range.”

In research published last year, Harvard Professors Raj Chetty and David J. Deming and co-author John N. Friedman used data from more than 400 institutions and about 3.5 million undergrads per year to better understand socioeconomic diversity and admissions. Standardized tests emerged as an important tool to identify promising students at less-well-resourced high schools, particularly when paired with other academic credentials.

“Critics correctly note that standardized tests are not an unbiased measure of students’ qualifications, as students from higher-income families often have greater access to test prep and other resources,” said Chetty, the William A. Ackman Professor of Public Economics and director of Opportunity Insights . “But the data reveal that other measures — recommendation letters, extracurriculars, essays — are even more prone to such biases. Considering standardized test scores is likely to make the admissions process at Harvard more meritocratic while increasing socioeconomic diversity.”

Deming, the Kennedy School’s Isabelle and Scott Black Professor of Political Economy and a professor of education and economics at the Ed School, pointed to access as a key issue.

“The virtue of standardized tests is their universality,” he said. “Not everyone can hire an expensive college coach to help them craft a personal essay. But everyone has the chance to ace the SAT or the ACT. While some barriers do exist, the widespread availability of the test provides, in my view, the fairest admissions policy for disadvantaged applicants.”

In June 2020, as the pandemic severely limited access to standardized testing, Harvard began a test-optional policy under which students could apply to the College without submitting scores. The admissions cycle for the Class of 2028 was the fourth for which students were able to apply without submitting test scores. However, admissions has welcomed applicants to submit test scores, and the majority of those who matriculated during the past four years did so.

“Test scores can provide important information about a student’s application,” said William R. Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid. “However, they representonly one factor among many as our admissions committee considers the whole person in making its decisions. Admissions officers understand that not all students attend well-resourced schools, and those who come from modest economic backgrounds or first-generation college families may have had fewer opportunities to prepare for standardized tests.”

In recent years, nonprofits such as Khan Academy have offered robust test-prep tools at no charge. In her message, Hoekstra said that access to testing should never prevent a student from applying to Harvard, and included information for those who may not be able to access the SAT or ACT, as well as tools such as Schoolhouse.world and other sources for no-cost tutoring and no-cost test preparation.

“We recognize that in parts of the United States there may be fewer students than in the past taking SAT or ACT for their state universities — and international applicants can also face barriers to testing,” said Joy St. John, director of admissions. “We hope that promising students faced with such challenges will still apply, using alternative forms of testing.”

Said Hoekstra: “Fundamentally, we know that talent is universal, but opportunity is not. With this change, we hope to strengthen our ability to identify these promising students, and to give Harvard the opportunity to support their development as thinkers and leaders who will contribute to shaping our world.”

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Harvard hopefuls are going to need to start cramming for the SAT again

• Harvard is the fourth Ivy League school to bring back standardized testing.
• The SAT and ACT tests will be used in admissions again.
• The timing of Harvard's decision could mean a tight turnaround for this year's applicants.

Harvard is the fourth Ivy League school to make standardized testing mandatory again, reversing an earlier shift away from the SAT and ACT by the nation's top universities.

All eight Ivies made testing optional when centers shuttered during the pandemic. At the same time, debates started about whether the tests were an actual measure of ability or just economic opportunity.

But now the tests are back at Harvard.

Related stories

Harvard's reversal echoes those of Brown, Dartmouth, and Yale — and goes into effect this next admission cycle. Students can choose between the SAT or ACT, Harvard said .

Harvard said the move will actually help it identify promising students at less-well-resourced schools.

"Standardized tests are a means for all students, regardless of their background and life experience, to provide information that is predictive of success in college and beyond," Faculty of Arts and Sciences dean Hopi Hoekstra said in a statement.

Even as top schools are bringing back tests, most colleges in America are remaining test-optional .

Still, the timing of the announcement is raising eyebrows.

The Harvard Crimson called the move a "sudden reversal," noting the university had previously committed to remaining test-optional through 2026.

Plus, the SAT and ACT are only offered seven times a year, with the Crimson noting that one sitting for each test has already passed.

The window gets even tighter for those looking to apply by Harvard's early action deadline of Nov. 1. The ACT suggests students test at least two months ahead of their deadline, while the SAT says scores are typically available within two to four weeks .

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• Main content

Harvard becomes latest Ivy League school to backtrack on SAT admissions requirement

Harvard University and the California Institute of Technology said they plan to reinstate the SAT or ACT as requirements for admission, joining a growing group of elite US schools returning to standardized tests after a pause prompted by the pandemic.

Harvard said the new policy will apply to students seeking admission in fall 2025, backtracking from an earlier decision to make testing optional for several more years. Caltech also said Thursday it would require applicants to submit scores when they apply this fall, a year before its moratorium on testing had been set to expire. 

The schools announced their decisions amid a broader rethinking about standardized tests and after the recruitment landscape shifted after the Supreme Court ruling last June that schools can’t consider race in admissions. Dartmouth, Yale and Brown all recently said they would bring back testing, arguing it can give admissions officers greater context about whether less-privileged applicants are likely to succeed at the schools.  

“Fundamentally, we know that talent is universal, but opportunity is not,” Hopi Hoekstra, dean of Harvard’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences, said in the statement. “With this change, we hope to strengthen our ability to identify these promising students, and to give Harvard the opportunity to support their development as thinkers and leaders who will contribute to shaping our world.”

Read more: Why US Colleges Are Reviving Standardized Tests: QuickTake

Testing opponents have long argued that the requirement favors wealthier students who can afford tutoring and preparation courses. Prestigious colleges started to bypass testing when it became impractical at the height of the pandemic as test centers closed. 

Since then, however, some of the most elite US schools have grown concerned that not using tests made it harder to identify talented students from less privileged backgrounds. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology restored test requirements two years ago. 

A report last year from Harvard professors including economist Raj Chetty found that standardized tests were important in identifying students from under-resourced schools and that SATs and ACTs were “highly predictive” of post-college outcomes.  

The Harvard Crimson first reported the school’s decision on testing.

Harvard, the oldest and richest US college, said in a statement that test scores are considered along with other information about an applicant’s experiences, skills, talents, and contributions to their communities. The school also assesses academic qualifications relative to students at applicants’ high schools. Yale said when it reinstated testing that scores can help establish a student’s academic preparedness for college-level work.

Yale, MIT and Harvard are among the schools stepping up efforts to recruit students from rural backgrounds who haven’t typically applied to elite colleges. Having a test score lets colleges know more context about an applicant compared to peers from their high school. Harvard said in December that students from rural communities and small towns made up 10% of those accepted to date. 

Harvard is bringing back testing requirements while grappling with changes in recruitment. The school said last month that 54,008 students sought admission for next fall’s freshman class. It was the second consecutive year that undergraduate applications declined. They’ve dropped from 61,220 two years ago, a spike that was helped by scrapping the testing requirements.

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Taylor Swift is now a class at the University of Miami. What will the students learn?

A University of Miami vice dean’s own homework assignment last year — learn all you can about Taylor Swift’s songs as fast as you can — has led to one of the coming fall semester’s hottest classes on the Coral Gables campus.

Students were more than ready for it. The UM’s “Mastermind Taylor Swift Brand” strategic communication class filled up at a pace almost as fast as tickets sold out last August for the superstar’s three South Florida concerts in October 2024. Those shows open the second U.S. leg of Swift’s Eras Tour at Miami Gardens’ Hard Rock Stadium.

Ayana George, a UM freshman marketing major, is one of the lucky to score a seat in the class. The course description “piqued her interest,” she said.

“My passion for understanding how brands evolve and grow successful entities like Taylor Swift led me to join this course,” George said. “I believe this course offers a fresh perspective.”

READ MORE: How to avoid ticket scams that can shake you off Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in Miami

When registration opened this month at UM for the 150-capacity class that’s open to all majors and begins Aug. 20, all seats filled within four days. The school raised the cap to 175. There is now a waiting list for STC 290. UM might add more seats for the Tuesday-Thursday 75-minute class.

Not every student is a self-described “Swiftie.”

“While I’m not specifically a ‘Swiftie,’ I do appreciate the approaches that she took to enhance her brand and shape the music industry,” George said. “In the end, I hope that I gain a comprehensive understanding of how to develop effective brand strategies, while also recognizing this talented artist and listening to some amazing music.”

How a UM Swift class was born

For Alyse Lancaster, UM’s vice dean for academic affairs in the School of Communication, that “Mastermind Taylor Swift Brand” class she formulated and will teach is a family affair.

The class is happening because her daughter Gabi planted the idea. And her son Sydney, a sophomore at the University of Florida majoring in interior design, designed the class’s promotional poster, which UM students have seen around campus since March.

“Taylor Swift has been a staple in my house since my now-17-year-old daughter was 4 years old,” Lancaster told the Miami Herald in an email interview. “But it wasn’t until we were able to purchase pre-sale tickets for the Eras Tour concert that things changed on my end. My daughter told me that I needed to learn all of the songs on the Eras Tour set list, plus most of Taylor’s other songs — ‘because you never know what the two surprise songs she will perform at the concert’ and I need to be ready.”

Gabi made her mom a playlist. Lancaster listened intently.

Don’t blame me, love made me crazy/If it doesn’t, you ain’t doin’ it right blasting on Lancaster’s exercise walks.

And you call me up again just to break me like a promise/So casually cruel in the name of being honest , Taylor’s dig at ex-beau Jake Gyllenhaal, coming from Lancaster’s car stereo on those drives to and from campus in Miami’s infernal traffic jams.

All this cramming of Swift’s music gave the educator plenty of contemplative and creative time.

“Then she and I went to see the Eras Tour movie and while watching this incredible woman perform for 3.5 hours straight, through nine eras of her music, interacting with her over-the-moon-excited, completely engaged audience, I finally understood what the big deal is,” Lancaster said.

On one of those walks, the idea for the class hit Lancaster like an immediate, enchanted revelation, much like words and music come to Swift. She knew she had to teach a communication-strategy class at UM built around Swift’s brand.

Swift in academia from UF to Harvard

Other places of higher education have designed courses around the pop star.

Last fall, the University of Miami’s School of Law had an adjunct professor teach a seven-week intensive class called “Intellectual Property Law Through the Lens of Taylor Swift.”

KNOW MORE: ‘Genius’: UM law school offers a class on Taylor Swift’s intellectual property empire

The University of Florida’s one-credit discussion-based spring 2024 class, “ Musical Storytelling With Taylor Swift and Other Iconic Female Artists,” filled its 15 spots in 10 seconds when early registration opened last fall, the campus newspaper, The Independent Florida Alligator, reported.

In the last year, Stanford University has offered “All Too Well (Ten Week Version),” a course analyzing Swift’s 10-minute masterpiece, “All Too Well” and “The Last Great American Songwriter: Storytelling With Taylor Swift Through the Eras.”

Harvard’s Department of English opened its “ Taylor Swift and Her World ” course this spring, promising to cover “illicit affairs and hoaxes” and “champagne problems and incomplete closure.”

Berklee College of Music in Boston offers a “Songs of Taylor Swift” class with a focus on the performer’s music composition and lyrics, The Boston Globe reported.

In addition to Lancaster’s coming UM class, Arizona State University, Brigham Young University, Houston’s Rice University, the University of Delaware and the University of California, Berkeley all plan Swift-inspired courses in 2024, according to Best Colleges.

“I typically teach courses in advertising strategy development and social media strategies,” Lancaster said. “These classes focus on brand-building, identifying and communicating with the desired target audience, building brand loyalty, and using social media to build a long-lasting relationship between the brand and its loyal audience. And it occurred to me that Taylor Swift has successfully built a billion-dollar brand with a multicultural, multi-generational, global audience of millions of loyal fans.

“So why not use Taylor Swift’s success and business prowess as the foundation for teaching students about brand-building, audience-building, and the importance of communication in achieving those relationships? And just like that, the class was born,” Lancaster said.

What students will learn

Students who managed to secure a seat for UM’s STC 290 in the fall will learn about the marketing and communication strategies that Swift has used to build her billion-dollar brand via “the most diverse and loyal group of fans many of us have ever seen,” Lancaster said.

Take Emma Craig, a junior majoring in biomedical engineering at UM.

“It’s going to be a ‘Cruel Summer’ waiting until fall for the new Taylor Swift class coming to UM,” the student told The Miami Hurricane campus newspaper in anticipation of registration for the course.

For “Mastermind,” the class title borrowed from one of Swift’s “Midnights” tracks, Lancaster’s lectures aim to teach students how to use promotional, persuasive and strategic communication to build a connection with a target audience, and how to get that audience invested in the brand, Lancaster said as she builds her syllabus.

School of Communication issues such as freedom of expression, the right to privacy for public figures, and the legal limits of using artificial intelligence to alter images are also on the course agenda.

“These are skills students can use not only in the industry, but also in building their own personal brands after graduation,” Lancaster said.

Swift’s own education path

For Swift, 34, that brand-building began inside a classroom in Hendersonville, Tennessee, when she was a high-school freshman in a math class, she told the Miami Herald in an interview published in January 2008, just a month after she turned 18.

While her peers listened to the teacher lecture about algebra a few years earlier, Swift said she scribbled the lyrics to her first two hits, “Tim McGraw” and “Teardrops on My Guitar,” in her notebook and sneaked out of class to record voice memos into her telephone.

At 17, signed to her first label, Swift already directed nearly every aspect of her career: the images on her album covers and press photos, the songs’ sequencing on her albums and other things. Swift said nothing was released to the marketplace that she hadn’t approved.

“When teachers conducted random notebook checks, they’d be freaked out — but they learned to deal with me,” Swift mused in that long-ago interview.

READ MORE: Taylor Swift’s first Miami Herald interview from 2008

Knowledge retention

Taylor Swift, Lancaster says, is “in essence, a phenomenon who truly understands many of the important constructs we cover in higher education, including persuasive communication, branding, storytelling, intellectual property, and the power of music.”

One reason that universities have taken to teaching Swift, aside from the Eras-like sellout registrations for classes, is the courses give professors an opportunity to teach concepts that students might actually remember after graduation.

“If students can connect the information they learn to something that’s of great interest to them, they will not only remember that information, but they will be reminded of it whenever the topic of interest comes up. Using Taylor Swift as the impetus for teaching important concepts increases attention, learning, and retention. And plus, it makes learning fun,” Lancaster said.

“I’ve never been more excited to teach a class than I am to teach this one!”

Miami Herald Staff Writer Howard Cohen teaches a digital writing class at the University of Miami and uses examples from Taylor Swift’s songwriting in lectures.

Taylor Swift says ‘Florida!!!’ Now there are parties across state. How to go and listen

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