The Best Winter Activities in Cambridge

Winter in the East might get a chilly reception, but those in Cambridge know one thing: It's actually the best time of year to visit! Cambridge abounds with fine concerts and shows; restaurants and cafes become the perfect place to spend hours; and there are still plenty of outdoor activities to keep you on your toes. Here are 4 ways to keep busy—and warm!—this winter.

Gather Here Handmade Holiday Market

Crafts lovers take note: The Gather Here market is back for another holiday season on December 17 from 11AM-5PM in Inman Square. Browse from dozens of locally made wares—the perfect way to get your holiday shopping done—and donations collected throughout the event will go to the Somerville Homeless Coalition.

Ice Skating in Kendall Square

Let your inner Michelle Kwan shine through when you hit the Zamboni-maintained ice at the outdoor rink at Kendall Square. The seasonal rink is open mid-December through mid-March and is located off 3rd Street. After you live out your winter Olympic athlete dreams, grab a slice of pizza (or the whole pie) at Area Four.

Sip Hot Cocoa at Cafe Crema

Harvard Square is iconic in its own right, but Cafe Crema has become an institution unto itself. The Harvard Square cafe, which has served everyone from students to Presidents and Fortune 500 heads, dishes up delicious sandwiches and sweets and is the ideal place to linger over a steaming mug of hot cocoa. It's located just across from the Harvard Square stop so it's the perfect place to meet with friends…or while away time with a good book.

Etch a Sketch

Head to Mount Auburn Cemetery for Nature Sketching with Clare Walker Leslie on December 9. You'll meet at Story Chapel but dress warmly to explore the winter landscape. The cemetery offers similar programming throughout the winter so check their website to see what is new and next. Why the MFA's Exhibition Lab: Sargent and Fashion is the coolest thing to see in Boston now