This page is obviously under construction, but here are a few quick notes on our favorite family destinations in Cambridge (no doubt these choices are strongly influenced by the age (3 and 6 years old) and interests (which I won't attempt to summarize) of our children:
Eating places in Harvard Square and Vicinity:
Chili's. On Mt. Auburn Street near the Charles Hotel. Southwestern cuisine, burgers, and so forth. Lots of old toys and chili memorabilia on the walls. Children's menu, crayons, some children's books.
Bertucci's. Brattle Square and also out at the Alewife T station. Brick oven pizza and other Italian fare. Good children's menu. Children get pizza dough to play with while they wait. There are some really cool escalators in the Alewife station and a giant "T" sculpture outside that we like to climb on.
Full Moon. Huron Avenue near Fresh Pond. The entire premise is a place where parents can relax and children can play. They bring a bucket of toys to your table. There is a play area. Gourmet food for grownups. Children's menu but no french fries, pizza, or burgers (as far as I can remember) - simple, healthy food (but a harder sell in our family).
Bread & Circus deli. Fresh Pond mall (near the Alewife stop). Amazing selection of prepared foods, tables to sit at, juice bar, bakery. All natural. Can be somewhat pricey. View is of the parking lot. We love it though. (And there is a movie theater and a Toys R Us in the same mall, if you are looking for some entertainment after your meal!)
Fun things to do in the area:
The Museum of Science, The New England Aquarium, The Children's Museum.
A really cool museum that in some ways I like even better than the above is the Discovery Museum out in Action (route 2). There is a Victorian House full of wonderful all encompassing play environments (forest, jungle, ocean, cause & effect) for children under 6 and an incredibly engaging science museum for older children (although in my experience you can be under 6 and still enjoy the exhibits).
Outdoor activities:
Walk around Fresh Pond. Go to the Cambridge Common Playground. The swan boats in Boston Garden. Walden Pond. Habitat nature preserve in Belmont.
There are some good guide books for parents as well. I will try to post these as well.
I will try to add more ideas and get this a bit more organized soon. In the meantime, feel free to send me your suggestions or questions.
