Timeline
14:36
Pick up a coffee and a pastry at Petsi Pies. It is a fantastic local bakery and coffee shop just a short walk from the museums. Arrive early enough to secure a seat before the afternoon rush.
15:06
Walk to the Harvard Art Museums. Spend some time exploring the galleries, particularly the Fogg Museum’s collection of British pre-Raphaelite art. The interior light is perfect for browsing before the outdoor light changes.
15:51
Stroll over to Harvard Book Store. This independent shop is cozy and has interesting staff recommendations glued to the book stalls. It is a great place to browse used and remaindered books downstairs while the golden light begins to fade.
16:36
Longfellow House–Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site
Head to Longfellow House–Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site. This spot offers a clear view of the sun setting toward the WSW. The historic grounds provide a quiet, reflective atmosphere to watch the sunset.
17:06
End the night at Grendel's Den. This dark and crowded Harvard tavern is known for its quirky staff and proximity to the Harvard campus. It is the perfect spot to unwind with a drink after the sunset.
Local tip
The sun sets toward the WSW on January 15th. Longfellow House is positioned to the WNW of the anchor, offering a clear view of the sunset direction. Check the route to Longfellow House from Harvard Book Store to ensure you have enough time to walk.
Check before you go
- Petsi Pies is open Mo-Fr 07:00-18:00 and Sa,Su 08:00-18:00.
- Harvard Art Museums are open Mo-Su 10:00-17:00.
- Harvard Book Store is open Mo-Sa 09:00-22:00 and Su 10:00-21:00.
- Grendel's Den is open Mo-Sa 12:00-01:00 and Su 16:00-01:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Cambridge (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).