Explore the Kendall Square Urban Rooftop Garden
A Green Oasis in Cambridge, MA
Explore the Kendall Square Urban Rooftop Garden
A Green Oasis in Cambridge, MA
Nestled in the heart of Cambridge, MA, the Kendall Square Urban Rooftop Garden offers a unique blend of nature and urban life. This hidden gem provides visitors with a peaceful retreat high above the bustling streets, showcasing the best of public open spaces in Boston.
Discover a Rooftop Haven
Located in the vibrant Kendall Square, this rooftop garden is more than just a green space—it's a community hub. Whether you're looking to relax amidst the greenery or explore the innovative design of this urban oasis, the Kendall Square rooftop garden offers something for everyone.
To access the Roof Garden, use the elevators in the Kendall Center Green Garage (90 Broadway) and press “R” or use the street level stairwell on Main Street. This elevator is a little challenging to find but well worth the effort.
What to Do at the Rooftop Garden
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at the garden. From leisurely strolls to enjoying scenic views of Cambridge, MA, the garden is a pretty cool spot to discover.
You'll find a pickleball court; lots of seating (tables and chairs) - a great spot for lunching or catching up with co-workers or friends. When I visited there was a giant flat screen TV that was playing the Olympics at the time; colorful sculptures and lots of plantings and trees, as well as open space.
I visited on a particularly hot afternoon during the summer, and was pleasantly surprised to find that the area is shaded by buildings and there was a refreshing breeze; so it was a great spot to beat the heat.
Public Events
There is also a calendar of public programming available for summer evenings. Activities include yoga & fitness classes, movie nights, beer garden pop ups, sip & paint nights, dance classes, craft nights and more.
It’s a great place to experience family-friendly outdoor activities in Kendall Square, making it a top destination for those exploring the area.
The Role of Sustainability
The Kendall Square Urban Rooftop Garden is a testament to the importance of sustainability in modern urban spaces.
The Urban Park (UP) Roof Garden is home to three raised beds maintained by a farmer from Green City Growers. The beds produce a harvest of assorted produce, including vegetables and herbs, as well as flowers and squash. Produce gathered from the UP garden are offered for free to anyone visiting the roof.
As one of the leading eco-friendly attractions in Kendall Square, it incorporates sustainable practices in its maintenance and design, offering a model for urban gardening in Boston.
Why Visit?
If you're looking for things to do in Kendall Square, the rooftop garden should be at the top of your list. It’s not just a place to unwind—it's an experience that highlights the beauty of green spaces in Cambridge, MA.
Whether you're interested in gardening, sustainability, or just need a break from the city, the Kendall Square Urban Rooftop Garden is a worthwhile place to visit. Plus, who doesn't like discovering an unexpectedly cool new space?
The space is open to all, and groups are welcome to gather provided they do not disrupt or discourage others’ use of the space and abide by the park’s rules and regulations. Urban Park’s tables, chairs, and pickleball court are available to guests on a first-come first-serve basis.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the Kendall Square Urban Rooftop Garden is one of the best ways to connect with nature without leaving the city. As one of the best rooftop gardens in Cambridge, MA, it offers a unique combination of urban design and natural beauty, making it a highlight of any visit to Kendall Square.
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Stacey Sao has been the Managing Director of the family-friendly events and activities website, BostonCentral for well over 20 years. She continues to enjoy discovering and exploring new places to visit in the Greater Boston area.