Guide to Campus and Commuting Options

With three main campuses, and locations elsewhere, Harvard occupies about 5,000 acres within Massachusetts. There are also several academic centers in other parts of the U.S. and in other countries.

Harvard College and a number of graduate schools are in Cambridge. Harvard’s Medical School, School of Public Health, School of Dental Medicine, and related facilities are in the Longwood Medical Area of Boston.

Harvard Business School, the Science and Engineering Complex, and many athletic facilities are in Allston, along with some Harvard housing and arts/performance spaces. 

The University maintains its properties with a commitment to tradition and best practices in green building and design. Harvard’s Office for Sustainability manages the implementation of tools and resources that provide a framework for constructing and operating healthy, efficient spaces that enhance the health and productivity of occupants.

If you’re looking for a place to eat, many campus restaurants are open to the Harvard community. If you’re planning a meeting or event (including personal events), Harvard Events Management offers resources and information on facilities for rent on campus.

If you want to get outside and enjoy the campus, Common Spaces sponsors events, performances, food trucks (year round), a weekly Farmer’s Market from June through November (co-sponsored with Harvard Dining), free winter activities, and more, primarily on the main Cambridge campus.

For information on safety and security at Harvard, please visit the Harvard University Police Department website and read Annual Security Report. If you need an escort to walk in or around campus at night, consult the Campus Escort Program.

Commuting

Harvard’s campuses are conveniently served by extensive public transportation network as well as University shuttles. You can learn more about commuting options for new employees.

As a benefits-eligible Harvard employee, you have access to a range of commuting options and benefits. Among the most popular are:

  • 60% Harvard subsidy for MBTA passes, including commuter rail and boats, and pretax savings on the purchase of private transit passes and parking expenses related to commuting by MBTA, up to the IRS limit
    • You will need your HarvardKey in order to sign up for transit benefits through the online portal. Allow 6-8 weeks from the start of employment for new enrollments to be processed. Payments are made through pre-tax payroll deduction. Please visit Harvard’s CommuterChoice Program or call 617-384-RIDE (7433) for more information about how to enroll or some advice on planning your commute.
  • Bicycle Commuter Benefit of tax-free reimbursement of up to $30 per month for costs associated with bicycle purchase, improvement, repair, and storage.
  • Need advice on the best way to get to work? Learn about personalized commute assistance.
  • Find a carpool partner and save 50-75% off your annual parking pass.

Parking

Annual parking permits are sold by Parking Services for the Cambridge and Allston campuses. You can apply for parking once you have your Harvard ID.

Parking permits, including annual, daily, and visitor permits, are available in Cambridge and Allston. Parking is limited, so there may be a waiting list for some lots and garages. There is preferred parking available for low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles.

Parking is especially limited in the Harvard Longwood Campus (HLC). Visit the Harvard Longwood Parking and Commuter Services website for information. For Harvard Longwood Campus (HLC) commuting services, subsidies, and commute planning, Harvard partners with MASCO (617-632-2800). Along with LMA shuttles that run between the HLC and Cambridge, MASCO offers CommuteWorks to help you find your best commute.