The Venue
Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian
For nearly 200 years, the Harvard College Observatory has been one of the leading sites of astronomical research in the world. Now a joint institute with the Smithsonian Astronomical Observatory, the Center for Astrophysics is home to over 850 scientists, engineers, and support staff. Read more about the history of the Center here.
Accomodations
Hotel Recommendations
There are a number of nice hotels around the CfA. In addition, there are many Airbnb listings throughout the Cambridge area (which often can be cheaper than the hotel offerings). For hotels, we recommend staying at one of the following:
Porter Square Hotel (15-minute walk)
Hotel 1868 (15-minute walk)
Prentiss House (10-minute walk)
Sheraton Commander (10-minute walk)
Harvard Square Hotel (20-minute walk)
Getting Here
Plane
Fly into Logan International Airport (BOS). Ubers and Lyfts are available from the airport (~$30-$50, ~20 minutes) depending on the arrival time. Public transportation is also available for free. This option takes ~1 hour and requires the following steps:
Taking the Silver Line to Downtown Crossing,
Transferring to the Red Line at Downtown Crossing
Riding the Red Line to the Harvard Square T-stop
walking 15 minutes up Garden Street to the Center for Astrophysics
Train
Take the Northeast Regional/Acela to South Station, take the Red Line to Harvard Square, and walk 15 minutes up Garden Street to the Center for Astrophysics
Parking
No parking is available on site for the CfA, but special accommodations may be possible upon request.
Things to do in Boston!
Boston is a wonderful place to visit in the fall! From apple picking to hiking to outdoor concerts, there are endless ways to explore and enjoy. Some of our favorites include the following:
Apple picking
Pumpkin carving
Candlepin bowling
Middlesex Fells Reservation
Blue Hills
Boston Calendar (for a comprehensive list of activities in the Boston area!)