Shopping Local in Cambridge

There are few things as magical as the holiday season in Cambridge, and around the rest of Boston. The crisp and colorful fall is winding down, and the snowy, majestic winter is on its way. Locals and travelers are exploring the city's best shops and businesses in search of special holiday presents. Come check it out and treat yourself to a discounted Boston getaway by booking a stay during our upcoming Cyber Monday sale. When you actually arrive for your boutique hotel stay in Cambridge, you can use the money you saved booking on Cyber Monday by exploring some of the city's most treasured local businesses. Here are some of our favorites.

TOSCANINI'S ICE CREAM

New Englanders consume the most ice cream per person each year than any Americans, so cold weather doesn't dampen our appetite for the indulgent treat. A seasoned gem of cambridge, Toscanini's Ice Cream is hailed for its top-of-the-line scoops and espressos. This makes it an ideal pit stop for those starting a day, or taking a break from shopping and exploring the city. Takeaway gifts include gift cards, artisanal coffees and teas, and a number of handmade cakes.

HARVARD BOOK STORE

Considered one of the landmark attractions in Cambridge, the Harvard Book Store has been a popular cultural hub since the early 1930s. Those shopping for gifts in Boston this winter can find a wide range of new and used literature here, as well as a classic collection of Harvard University nic nacs, souvenirs, sweatshirts, and the like. Check out the event schedule before visiting and maybe catch a reading or performance.

CAMBRIDGE ART ASSOCIATION

The Cambridge Art Association is aptly named for its diverse collection of exhibits, programs, and events that help foster a community of brilliant artists. Spend some of your Cyber Monday savings by supporting the local arts scene. Right now the space is hosting a large-scale installation exhibit from a female artist based in Boston, and a 20-year-old exhibit called Red 2018, which is a series that celebrates the color with pieces submitted by artists from around New England.

WALKING AT FRIENDS OF FRESH POND

Friends of Fresh Pond celebrates and protects Fresh Pond Reservation, a 155-acre, wildlife-rich park surrounding an old kettle-hole lake. This pond is part of a series of bodies of water around Greater Boston that make up the reservoir system for Cambridge and surrounding towns. This land was sculpted by a retreating glacier over 15,000 years ago. The organization regularly hosts free events like nature walks and gardening at the reservoir, and they're well worth checking out on your next visit. Consider a donation to this valuable group committed to keeping Cambridge's natural environment clean.

MAUD MORGAN ARTS

Maud Morgan Arts is a community arts association for children, families and professional artists. The colorful building is an architectural marvel in itself, created by architect Prellwitz Chilinski in association with nine Cambridge-based artists. Inside, you'll find a number of programs for emerging children and teen artists, with classes lead by professional Boston artists in ceramics, printmaking, painting, and sculpture. It's also home to drawing sessions, workshops, film screenings, and other experiences worth treating yourself to on an upcoming trip. And don't miss its boutique, showcasing the works of the talented artists involved with the center.