Step Back in Time at Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters
Discover the literary and historical significance of Longfellow House, a key site in American history located in charming Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Immerse yourself in history at the Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters, a pivotal site in American history that offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of its famous residents. This historic home, once the residence of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and a crucial military headquarters during the Revolutionary War, invites visitors to explore its beautifully preserved rooms and lush gardens. Engage with interactive exhibits that bring the past to life and stroll through the grounds that once served as a backdrop for pivotal events in American history. A visit here is not just a tour; it's a journey through time in the charming town of Cambridge, Massachusetts.
A brief summary to Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site
- 105 Brattle St, Cambridge, West Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02138, US
- +1617-876-4491
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the website for current hours and tour availability before your visit, as it may be temporarily closed.
- Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth knowledge about the history and significance of the site.
- Don't miss the gardens; they are a perfect spot for a quiet moment or a photo opportunity.
- Plan to spend at least an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and grounds.
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach the Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters, start by locating a nearby bus stop. You can take the MBTA bus #67 from downtown Gloucester. Board the bus at the stop on Main St near the Cape Ann Museum. Ride the bus for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the Alewife station in Cambridge. Once you arrive, transfer to the Alewife subway station and take the Red Line towards Ashmont. Ride for 6 stops and get off at the Harvard Square station. From there, it's a short walk: exit the station, head northeast on Massachusetts Ave, then turn left onto Brattle St. The Longfellow House is located at 105 Brattle St, just a few blocks down the road on your right.
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Train
Begin your journey by walking to the Gloucester train station, located on Railroad Ave. Purchase a ticket for the MBTA commuter rail service. Board the train heading towards North Station in Boston. The journey will take about 45 minutes. Once you arrive at North Station, transfer to the Orange Line and take the train towards Oak Grove. Get off at Haymarket station, then transfer to the Green Line and take the train towards Riverside. Get off at Park Street station, then switch to the Red Line towards Alewife. Ride the Red Line for 3 stops and disembark at Harvard Square. From there, walk northeast on Massachusetts Ave, turn left onto Brattle St, and the Longfellow House will be on your right at 105 Brattle St.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle from a local shop in Gloucester. Start your ride on Washington St heading towards the Gloucester Boulevard. Continue to follow the coastline along the scenic route until you reach the bike path leading towards the city of Cambridge. This route may take some time, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your speed. Once in Cambridge, follow the signs to the Longfellow House on Brattle St, which is approximately a 10-minute ride from the city center.
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Walking
If you're staying nearby in Gloucester and prefer walking, you can embark on a long journey. Start from downtown Gloucester and head towards the waterfront, following the scenic walking paths along the harbor. Continue on Main St towards the MBTA train station, and from there, you can take the train as described above. If you choose to walk the entire distance, it will be quite a long trek of about 35 miles and could take over 10 hours, so be prepared with plenty of water and snacks!
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