Fitness and Outdoors

Fitness Rooms

Several Harvard University Housing properties feature fitness centers. They require a signed waiver prior to utilizing the space, which is included as part of your lease package. Access to the fitness centers will automatically be added to your Harvard University IDs (HUID).

Please note that residents can only use Fitness Rooms in the building where they reside.

Soldiers Field Park Fitness Center

Harvard Athletic Facilities

Families and individuals can typically purchase individual or family memberships for Harvard athletic facilities by the semester. Prices are reasonable compared to local gyms, and a membership card will give you access to Harvard gyms, including the Malkin Athletic Center (MAC), Hemenway Gymnasium, and Blodgett Pool.

Check the Harvard Recreation website for updates throughout the year on hours, programming, and guidelines. Also, check out the Harvard Recreation YouTube channel.

Local neighborhood gyms and fitness centers can be found in every city with membership or usage fees.

Three rowing machines in a line inside of the Harvard recreational facilities.

Running Clubs and Casual Fitness Groups

There are running clubs and casual fitness groups in-and-around Cambridge. Davis Square Runners is based in Somerville (just north of Cambridge). Many groups run along the Charles River right near two of our campuses.

Marathon runners

Outdoor Recreation

Cambridge Parks and Playgrounds
Cambridge has an abundance of amazing parks, many with wonderful playgrounds, to explore and enjoy. Visit the Cambridge Parks and Playgrounds website to learn more.
Fresh Pond Reservation
Cambridge’s Fresh Pond Reservation consists of 162 acres of open space surrounding and protecting the 155-acre Fresh Pond Reservoir. Great for easy family hikes, trail running, dog walking, and bird watching. There's even a spot where dogs can go swimming. Check out the trail map to learn more.
Middlesex Fells
Middlesex Fells is a large outdoor-wooded area with options for hiking, biking, and fishing, and an off-leash area for dogs. You can also rent a canoe or kayak to use on the pond.

Other outdoor spaces to check out

Nature/outdoor activities for kids and families

A young boy in green shorts and a white shirt walks carefully over a log outdoors with his arms held out for balance.

Outdoors in the Winter?

What are the keys to surviving your first winter in Cambridge?

  1. A good coat.
  2. Layers! Wool is a favorite in New England.
  3. A warm scarf or other neck covering.
  4. A hat that covers your ears.
  5. Gloves/mittens.
  6. Warm/waterproof boots that are insulated.
  7. Hand Warmers (can be put in your boots or gloves on the coldest days, too).
  8. Proper bedding.
  9. And most importantly... an adventurous attitude!
The Boston Public Garden in Massachusetts covered in snow, with a frozen pond that is icy blue.