Irving House at Harvard

Irving House at Harvard is a 44-room independent inn two blocks east of Harvard Yard, run as a cross between a small hotel and a bed and breakfast. It is larger than a typical B&B but keeps a homey feel, with a quiet parlor and a dining room where guests can read the papers or have an afternoon snack. Rooms come in a range of sizes, suiting solo backpackers as well as families visiting Harvard students.

The location has hosted travelers since 1945, and Harvard affiliates since the 1920s. Rachael Solem, whose family has owned the inn since 1990, made Irving House what it is today. Since that purchase the owners have steadily reduced its environmental footprint with solar thermal hot water, LED lighting, composting, energy-efficient appliances and reusable supplies, earning several national, state and local green awards. Fair trade purchasing is part of the operating policy.

What to Know

• Breakfast, off-street parking and wifi are included with every stay.
• Turner House, a second property up the street, offers weekly and monthly stays in rooms with kitchenettes.
• The inn helped organize the first composting route in Cambridge.
• Two electric vehicle charging stations are located at the extended-stay house.
• Direct bookings may include offers for college visits, veterans and birthdays.