8 Awesome Places at Harvard!

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Last Updated: December 20, 5:00pm

Nu Class of '17 Alumni

July 23, 2014

Between our libraries, academic buildings, houses, and dining halls, there's no shortage of awesome spaces to explore at Harvard.

Here are just a few of my favorite spots on campus to hang out, study, eat, and enjoy the sun!

1. Randolph Courtyard. This courtyard is the perfect size--it's between Randolph and Apthorp House so most visitors would miss it, but it's also big enough for the Adams House graduation ceremony! From the yard, you can find an entrance to the courtyard on Linden and/or Plympton Street.

Photograph of Randolph Courtyard with hammock

2. Widener Loker Reading Room. In my personal opinion, the Loker reading room in Widener is one of the prettiest rooms at Harvard. The light-green, arched roof and natural light is awe-inspiring. This is on the second floor of the library, just right up the steps from Harry Elkins Widener's study.

Photograph of Widener Loker Reading Room

3. Main Entrance of Lowell House. I belong to Adams House (best house!), but I have to admit, Lowell's entrance is gorgeous. The contrast between the red brick arch and all the greenery in the background makes it really feel like you'll be stepping into a whole new world!

4. Annenberg Hall. Yup, this where the freshmen eat. A lot of students refer to it as just the 'berg. For example, "Dinner in the 'berg?" I've been calling it "Annie" recently -- hoping this catches on! I can't really explain just how beautiful the inside of this building is. It really does look like the Great Hall from Harry Potter. From the exit of Annie, you can take the elevator up and get to the balcony (where I shot this picture) if you have swipe-access.

5. Dudley Garden. This little garden is a hidden gem. It's secretly tucked away between the end of Wigglesworth Hall and Lamont Library. There are a a few stairs from the gate and you'll eventually find a pathway that leads to this. It's definitely a great spot to grab lunch with a friend or read a book.

Photograph of Dudley garden located behind Wigglesworth Hall

6. South Porch of Memorial Church. A great place to do some work, people-watch, or eat your lunch. From this area, you get a great view of Tercentenary Theatre, with Widener Library straight across and Sever Hall to your left. This spot is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors!

7. Sunsets over the Charles River. With the Charles so close, we also have a few bridges--the one I'm standing on gets you to the athletic facilities and Harvard Business School. Cambridge has some stunning sunsets--which are not to be missed! You can get to this bridge if you follow JFK street from the Square.

8. Science Center Observatory. This is one of my favorite views--you can see all of Harvard, including the Science Plaza, Memorial Church, Lowell House, the Lampoon Tower, and even some of Boston! The observatory is on the 8th floor of the science center--if you have swipe access, you can use the giant telescope and also have access to the deck.