Observatory Hill Real Estate
Cambridge’s Observatory Hill neighborhood is an enclave just west of Harvard Square. Named for the Harvard College Observatory, the retail and business center of the area sits at the intersection of Concord and Huron Avenues. Continuing down Huron Avenue toward Fresh Pond, residents enjoy a small set of specialty shops known as Huron Village, noted for its variety of restaurants, unique retail and housewares. Pockets of leafy residential streets are tucked away behind the retail area. The housing stock in Observatory Hill is small and exclusive ranging from recently renovated Victorian manses to elegant, period single-family homes that offer every modern convenience while preserving their original historic charm. Read more about Observatory Hill real estate.
Observatory Hill Homes & Condos For Sale
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Observatory Hill Location
Observatory Hill is located one half mile west of Harvard Square and Fresh Pond. Garden Street marks the northern and northeast boundary; Sparkle Street is to the southwest while Walden Street is to the north and northwest. The Cambridge Highlands neighborhood lies to the west while Porter Square and Davis Square are further north and Harvard University is to the East. The closest MBTA Stop is at Porter Square on the Red Line which also provides access to the Fitchburg Commuter Line. Buses run regularly from Huron Avenue during rush hour to the station.
Observatory Hill History
Observatory Hill draws its name from the Harvard College Observatory, a complex of buildings used for astronomical research by the Harvard University Department of Astronomy and open to the public. The Great Refractor telescope is one of the Observatory’s most treasured instruments, installed in 1847. While visitors can no longer look through this telescope, they can still see take part in guided stargazing and attend free lectures on a regular basis.