Porter Square

Look up! It is impossible to ignore Gift of the Wind—a towering, 46-foot stainless steel kinetic sculpture whose independently spinning red wings anchor this bustling commercial nexus. Crawling with students (Lesley University is headquartered here; Harvard Law School isn't terribly far) and young professionals, Porter is considerably dense with goods and services. They range from the both predictable (coffee shop, supermarket, gym) to the not-so-much: a lively "Japantown" mall and food court, a sleek vegan shoe boutique, a thronged live music venue that prides itself on no-cover shows. Moreover, Mass. Ave. is a chowhound's playground. Can you spot the organic four-cheese pizza, Ethiopian kitfo-topped injera, or steaming pork-broth ramen?

Top Activities in Porter Square

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Bentley Publishers and Booksellers: Specializing in European cars and motors, this bookstore is home to numerous automotive books and manuals. 

Cambridge Naturals: Natural and organic body care supplements and products can be found at this shop supporting local small businesses. 

Made By Me: At this pottery studio for all ages, you can create anything from a new coffee mug to a new ceramic party animal. 

Maud Morgan Visual Arts Center: Various art programs are available for all ages at this community arts center, designed with the input of nine architects to inspire creativity in a beautiful environment. 

Porter Square Books: Established by a group of booksellers, this independent bookstore houses a vast collection of titles in a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Eat in Porter Square

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  • 1924 Massachusetts Avenue
  • (617) 576-2222

Margaux Supper Parlor serves New American cuisine, blending dishes inspired by the two most historic cities in the country: New Orleans & Boston. Entrees are served family-style to create an experience that feels like…

Bagelsaurus: Originally a popup shop, this bagel stop is known for its sea salt bagel with honey-rosemary cream cheese.

Barcelona Wine Bar: One of the largest Spanish wine collections in the US can be discovered here alongside a comforting tapas bar. 

Giulia: Michelin-recommended Giulia is a neighborhood trattoria known for its fresh daily made pasta and small bites. 

Harvard House of Pizza: From sandwiches to wraps to calzones, this pizza house has fresh doughs and sauces made daily for everyone. 

Moëca: This Michelin-recommended seafood restaurant features rotating menus based on what's in season, partnering with local fisherman to maintain environmental and local sustainability. 

Phinista Cafe: French and Vietnamese cafe cultures intertwine in a series of menu items such as crepes, bánh mìs, and ube Vietnamese coffee. 

Where to Stay in Porter Square

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  • 1924 Massachusetts Avenue
  • (617) 499-3399

Porter Square Hotel is the newest independent boutique hotel in Cambridge, MA. Equipped with 65 guest rooms, including 8 suites, meeting spaces, valet parking, and a beautiful garden. The hotel is located in the heart of…

Hotel 1868:  From a cozy interior to its convenient location a mile from Harvard University, this hotel is in the heart of Cambridge and provides guests with accomodations such as a fitness center and an onsite Caffe Nero. 

Prentiss House: A 20-room inn recognized as a Cambridge landmark as well as on the National Registry of Historic Places, Prentiss House provides guests with a charming stay in a historical mansion.