The visitor center at Longfellow House–Washington’s Headquarters is open Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
There is no entrance fee at Longfellow House–Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site; all tours are free of charge.
From Boston, take Highway 2 West to Cambridge. Exit at Memorial Drive, head towards Brattle Street, and immerse yourself in historic elegance.
No on-site parking except for handicapped spaces. Limited street parking, mostly for residents. Use Harvard Square garages or public transportation. No RV or overnight parking. No fees for street parking but limited to 2 hours.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Longfellow House–Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site, situated in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a testament to American history and architectural elegance. This 11,500-square-foot Georgian house, built in 1759 for wealthy landowner John Vassall, served as General George Washington’s headquarters during the Siege of Boston in 1775-1776. Later, it became the long-term residence of renowned poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who lived there for nearly 50 years.
The house, now a fully furnished historic house museum, offers a glimpse into the lives of its illustrious occupants. The interior is adorned with original nineteenth-century furnishings, an extensive collection of over 10,000 books owned by Longfellow, and artwork that reflect the family’s diverse interests. The dining table, around which many notable visitors gathered, is a poignant reminder of the house’s significant social history.
Surrounded by a meticulously maintained 1.98-acre landscape, designed in the Colonial Revival style by noted landscape architects Martha Brooks Hutcheson and Ellen Biddle Shipman, the house boasts a preserved view of the Charles River. Seasonal programs include free ranger-led tours, family activities, a summer arts festival, and a fall lecture series, enriching the visitor experience.
As the seasons change, the site transforms: spring brings blooming gardens, summer hosts vibrant arts festivals, and fall is marked by rich foliage and educational lectures. In the winter, holiday programming adds a warm and festive atmosphere. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the nearby artisan town of Harvard Square offers a array of cultural attractions, boutique shops, and fine dining options. This historic site is a must-visit for anyone looking to delve into America’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 67 376
- Established year
- 1973
Top 3 Facts about Longfellow House–Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site
The house, a prime example of Georgian architecture, features a 1.98-acre landscape designed by notable landscape architects Martha Brooks Hutcheson and Ellen Biddle Shipman, restored in the early 2000s to its Colonial Revival design.
This historic site is a haven for wildlife, with eastern gray squirrels and cottontail rabbits roaming the grounds. Over 40 bird species flit through the trees, while the garden teems with diverse insects and arachnids. The formal garden, a masterpiece of colonial revival landscape architecture, adds to the site’s natural allure, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Along the Charles River, which flows gently past this historic site, the water glistens with a soft, serene light, reflecting the vibrant greens of the surrounding landscape. The river’s tranquil surface is a stark contrast to the bustling city, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking to connect with nature’s beauty. The river’s width here is approximately 400 feet, providing a expansive view that underscores the site’s historical and natural significance.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit from May 23, 2025, for guided tours. Park at Harvard Square or metered spots on Brattle Street. Explore the garden and grounds, and catch the Poetry Experience Deep Dive Tour on Fridays. Plan for a memorable afternoon with nearby dining options.
Pack Appropriately
Pack a waterproof backpack with navigation tools, sun protection, a first-aid kit, and a portable charger. Check the weather and season to include appropriate clothing and gear for the duration of your stay. Bring a multi-tool and GPS beacon for added safety.
Respect Wildlife
Stay on designated paths to protect fragile urban ecosystems. Keep a safe distance from wildlife and store food properly to avoid attracting animals. Respect local flora by not removing plants or littering. Leave the area cleaner than you found it.
Stay Informed
Watch your step on uneven paths, be cautious near water and ledges, and stay informed about weather and fire restrictions. Contact park authorities at 617-876-4481 for emergencies.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 50s and 60s, enjoy blooming gardens and historic grounds. Join the Longfellow Summer Arts Festival previews and Poets in the Garden on Sunday, April 27, amidst mild weather and vibrant community events. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and poetry lovers.
Experience summer’s warmth (70s-80s°F) at this historic site, where the Longfellow Summer Arts Festival brings free music, poetry, and community to the lawn from June to August. Enjoy Sunday afternoons of live performances amidst lush gardens and mild summer weather. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers.
Visit in the crisp fall months of September and October, with temperatures in the 50s-60s°F. Enjoy the fall lecture series and historic house tours amidst the vibrant autumn foliage. A perfect time for a cultural and historical immersion.assistant
Visit in the crisp fall months of September and October, with temperatures in the 50s-60s°F. Enjoy the fall lecture series and historic house tours amidst vibrant autumn foliage. Ideal for a cultural and historical immersion.
Explore historic grounds from dawn to dusk, even in winter’s chill (late Oct to late May, temps often below 32°F). While the house is closed, the serene gardens and grounds offer a peaceful winter stroll. Ideal for those seeking a tranquil, less crowded experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Longfellow House–Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the historic site is Cambridge, Massachusetts, where the house is located at 105 Brattle Street. Cambridge is just a short distance from Boston, where significant historical events, including the Siege of Boston, took place in 1775-1776.
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Dogs are allowed on most of the outdoor grounds but are not permitted in the formal garden or the house itself. Service animals, however, are allowed everywhere. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
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There is no public parking on site except for a few spots for disabled visitors. You can try metered parking on Brattle Street or Mount Auburn Streets, but most spots are for Cambridge residents only. It is recommended to use public transportation, as the site is a short walk from Harvard Square, which has paid parking lots and an MBTA Red Line station.
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This house was General George Washington’s first long-term headquarters during the Siege of Boston from 1775-1776. It was originally built in the early 1700s for John Vassal, Jr., a sugar plantation owner and enslaver. Later, from 1836 until his death in 1882, it was the home of American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who wrote many of his famous works there. The house also played a role in conservation efforts, with Longfellow and his family helping to protect land along the Charles River.