Photo: en:User:Boston (John Stephen Dwyer), Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
See all types of live concerts and special events at this popular entertainment chain. The first HoB opened in Harvard Square in the early 90s, but moved to this much larger location in 2009. They play host to bigger name national performers like The Flaming Lips and Run the Jewels. They also serve several southern inspired dishes, if you feel compelled to eat here.
House of Blues is an American chain of live music concert halls and restaurants. It was founded by Isaac Tigrett, the co-founder of Hard Rock Cafe, and Dan Aykroyd, co-writer and co-star of the 1980 film The Blues Brothers. The first location opened at Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on November 26, 1992. The chain has been a division of Live Nation Entertainment since July 2006, and there are 11 locations throughout the United States as of 2025.
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Jillian’s
Not into classical music, and the finer "intangibles" a bowstring might provide? No problem. Head here for an evening of bowling, billiards, and ping-pong. An attached dance club bills itself as "52 weeks of spring break", if you're up for that. The entertainment is spread out over several floors so you may find something to your liking. All areas serve alcohol and are 21+.
Hotel Commonwealth
Founded in 1971, Panopticon Gallery is one of the oldest galleries in the United States dedicated solely to fine art photography. The gallery specializes in 20th century American photography and emerging contemporary works. Check their calendar for up to date information on their current exhibition. They also carry many interesting, hard to find, fine art books in their store.
MHS
Founded in 1791, the Massachusetts Historical Society is the nation's oldest historical society. The collections of the MHS bring alive the stories of America's past through a series of changing exhibitions and public programs that are free and open to the public. Thomas Jefferson's handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence is a particularly significant piece in their collection. Many famous people sit on the board of directors, including professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr., historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, and director Ken Burns.
Your basic giant urban multiplex theater, gets all those first run films. Pretty clean, concessions, popcorn, games, the works. Some parking in the attached garage, discounted with a valid movie ticket from that day.
Shattuck Visitor Center
Offering walking and cycling tours throughout The Fens, the Muddy River, and other points of interest along this section of the Emerald necklace. See the calendar of events for specifics.