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The Port
The Port, formerly known as Area 4, is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just northeast of Central Square. Historically an industrial area, the Port has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years and is now a popular residential area known for its cultural richness and strong sense of community.
The Port is home to a mix of residential, commercial, and light industrial spaces. Residential options in the neighborhood include historic triple-decker homes, modern apartment buildings, and condominiums. The neighborhood's proximity to Central Square and MIT makes it popular among students, young professionals, and families.
Go French Yourself
The Port History
Historically, The Port was part of the larger Cambridgeport area. In the mid-20th century, city planning divisions designated it as Area 4, a term that residents felt lacked identity. Community efforts led to the restoration of its traditional name, "The Port," reflecting its rich maritime heritage and community pride.
The Port Market
The Port is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood located just southeast of Central Square in Cambridge. Known for its strong sense of community, colorful street art, and cultural richness, The Port offers a dynamic urban lifestyle with close proximity to MIT and public transportation. The real estate market here is fast-moving and increasingly competitive, featuring a mix of classic triple-deckers, newly renovated condos, and modern apartment developments. While prices remain slightly more accessible than in some other parts of Cambridge, demand continues to rise, especially among young professionals and families drawn to the area's energy and walkability. With limited inventory and a growing interest in urban living, The Port is becoming an increasingly desirable neighborhood for buyers seeking both convenience and character.
Living in The Port
Living in The Port offers a vibrant, diverse, and highly walkable Cambridge experience. Nestled between Central Square, Kendall Square, and the Massachusetts Avenue corridor, The Port blends residential charm with urban energy. You'll find a lively mix of local restaurants, cafes, parks, and community centers, along with easy access to public transit via the Red Line. The neighborhood is known for its strong sense of community, historic triple-decker homes, and rich cultural heritage. Living here means being just minutes from MIT, downtown Boston, and some of Cambridge’s best arts and music scenes—making it a dynamic place to call home.
Things to Do
Things to Do
Dining and Nightlife: Proximity to Central Square provides residents with diverse dining options, bars, and live music venues.
Oleana Restaurant: Oleana, located just a short distance from the Port, is an acclaimed restaurant by Chef Ana Sortun. It focuses on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Flavors, featuring beautifully crafted dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. It's a Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its innovative and flavorful dishes.
Kohi Cafe: If you're in the mood for a great cup of coffee or a light meal, Kohi Cafe is a cozy and popular choice in the Port area. Known for their specialty coffees, teas, and delicious pastries, it's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a quiet afternoon.
Shopping: Local businesses and shops cater to daily needs, with larger retail centers accessible in nearby areas.
The Port's Blend of historical significance, cultural diversity, and urban convenience makes it a unique and dynamic neighborhood within Cambridge.
Historic Homes
The neighborhood features a mix of architectural styles, including Greek Revival and Late Victorian Homes, particularly in the Upper Magazine Street Historic District. This area showcases well-preserved mid-19th-century housing, reflecting the neighborhood's historical development.
Libraries and Bookstores
Residents have access to the Cambridge Public Librry's main branch, located at nearby 449 Broadway. The library offers a vast collection of books, digital resources, and community programs. Adjacent to the library is Joan Park, a green space that includes a playground and tennis courts.
Outdoor Activities
The Port boasts several parks and recreational areas:
Squirrel Brand Park: Located on the ground of the former Squirrel Brnad candy factory, this park offers green space and community gardens.
Greene-Rose Heritage Park: A community park featuring playgrounds, open fields, and a water play area, celebrating the neighborhood's cultural diversity.
Dog Spots
Greene-Rose Heritage Park
Located at the intersection of Third and Bent Streets, this park features shared-use off-leash hours from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, allowing dogs to roam freely during these times.
Joan Lorentz Park
Situated at 441 Broadway, adjacent to the Cambridge Public Library, this park offers a designated off-leash zone for dogs between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
Coffee Shops and Bakeries
1369 Coffee House: A cozy neighborhood favorite near Inman Square, known for strong coffee, homemade pastries, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Andala Coffee House: A charming spot on Franklin Street offering Arabic coffee, teas, and homemade pastries in a cozy, relaxed setting.
Cafe Luna: Near Central Square, this lively café is loved for its brunch, fresh pastries, and excellent coffee.
Curio Coffee: Just north of The Port, Curio is known for craft coffee and their famous Liege waffles in a rustic, casual space.
Breweries
Cambridge Brewing Company
Located at 1 Kendall Square, this brewpub is a staple in the area, offering a variety of handcrafted beers and a seasonal patio. It's known for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
Lamplighter Brewing Co. – Broadway
Situated at 284 Broadway, Lamplighter Brewing Co. is a vibrant community-based craft brewery offering a diverse selection of beers, including IPAs, pale ales, and stouts. The taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts.
Lamplighter Brewing Co. – CX
Located at 110 N First St, this newer taproom in the Cambridge Crossing area offers an expanded space with a rooftop patio and a variety of craft beers. It's a great spot to enjoy a drink with friends.
Farms and Farmers Markets
Cambridge Main Street Farmers Market
Located at 617 Cambridge Street, this market operates on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It features a variety of vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. It's a great spot to support local farmers and enjoy a community atmosphere.
Cambridgeport Farmers Market
Situated at 700 Memorial Drive, near the Charles River, this market is open on Wednesdays from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It offers a selection of fresh produce, flowers, and local products, making it a convenient stop for residents in the Cambridgeport area.
Fireworks and Town Days
The Port is known for its strong sense of community, hosting various events throughout the year that celebrate its multicultural heritage. Local organizations and community centers often organize festivals, markets, and cultural performances.
Ice Cream
Toscanini’s Ice Cream
A Cambridge institution located at 899 Main Street, Toscanini’s is renowned for its inventive flavors like burnt caramel and cocoa pudding.
Food & Wine
Jamie’s Ice Cream Co.
Situated at 86 Kirkland Street, Jamie’s serves scratch-made ice cream with unique offerings such as Milk Dunk Cookie and dairy-free Honey Cinnamon.
Cambridge Day
Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream
Opening soon at 1 Brattle Square, Van Leeuwen is known for its rich, small-batch ice creams, including vegan options like Chocolate Cookie Dough Honeycomb.
Hotels and Places to Stay
The Kendall Hotel
Originally a historic firehouse, this charming hotel near Kendall Square offers unique accommodations and is a quick trip from The Port.
Hyatt Regency Boston / Cambridge
Overlooking the Charles River, this modern hotel offers scenic views, easy access to Cambridgeport and The Port, and upscale amenities.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Boston Cambridge
A comfortable and affordable option with free breakfast and easy access to The Port, Kendall Square, and downtown Boston.
907 Main
A stylish, boutique hotel located right on Main Street in Central Square, blending historic character with contemporary design—steps from The Port.
The Charles Hotel
A luxury stay in Harvard Square with elegant accommodations, renowned dining, and a vibrant atmosphere just a short drive or Red Line ride from The Port.
Transportation
The Port neighborhood of Cambridge is exceptionally well-connected, offering residents and commuters easy access to public transit, bike routes, and major roadways. Nestled between Central Square, Kendall Square, and the Massachusetts Avenue corridor, The Port is ideal for those who value accessibility and urban convenience.
MBTA Red Line Access:
Central Square Station is just steps from The Port and provides Red Line subway service to downtown Boston, Kendall/MIT, Harvard Square, and South Station. Trains run frequently, making it a reliable option for both daily commutes and weekend outings.
MBTA Bus Routes:
Multiple MBTA bus lines run along Massachusetts Avenue and nearby main roads, connecting The Port to Cambridge, Somerville, and Boston:
Route 1: Travels along Mass Ave, linking Central Square to MIT, Boston Medical Center, and Back Bay.
Routes 47, 64, 70, 83, and 91: These provide access to destinations like Longwood Medical Area, Allston, Waltham, and Sullivan Square.
Shuttles and Local Services:
The Port is close to both Harvard and MIT, and residents may benefit from the universities’ shuttle services, which operate throughout Cambridge and to affiliated campuses in Boston.
Bike and Pedestrian Friendly:
The neighborhood is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and street crossings.
Bike lanes run along key streets like Columbia Street and Massachusetts Avenue, and there are Bluebikesstations throughout the area for easy bike sharing.
The Grand Junction Path, a developing multi-use path, will further enhance bike and pedestrian access through The Port.
Driving and Road Access:
The Port’s central location offers convenient access to Memorial Drive, Storrow Drive, and I-90 (Mass Pike)for drivers heading into Boston or westward.
While on-street parking can be limited, resident permit parking and nearby garages in Central and Kendall Squares provide options for car owners.
Flooding and Flood Insurance
Living near the Alewife Brook has its perks—but it also means extra consideration during heavy storms. The Port neighborhood of Cambridge is prone to occasional flooding, particularly during rainstorms and rapid snowmelt. Some properties may require flood insurance, and the city has made investments in flood prevention systems and resiliency projects to manage water flow. Always check FEMA flood maps and city flood zones when house hunting!