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Ginkgo House on Harvard

3.0 star property
Inn in Cambridge, near Harvard University
VIP Access

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Photo gallery for Ginkgo House on Harvard

Front of property
Private Family Suite | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Terrace/patio
Garden
Check-in/check-out kiosk

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Laundry
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
288 Harvard St, Cambridge, MA, 02139
  • Place, Harvard University
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Harvard Square
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Boston, MA (BOS-Logan Intl.)
    ‪10 min drive‬
VIP Access
Curated for quality and service, VIP Access stays consistently receive our highest guest ratings.
  • Expect exceptional service
  • Extra savings and perks for Rewards members
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Room options

View all photos for Standard Single Room With Share Bath

Standard Single Room With Share Bath | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Standard Single Room With Share Bath

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 200 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Classic Room

Classic Room | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Classic Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Standard Doble Room

Standard Doble Room | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Standard Doble Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Superior Room

Superior Room | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Superior Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Room

Deluxe Room | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Deluxe Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Family Room

Family Room | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Family Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Private Studio Suite

Private Studio Suite | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Private Studio Suite

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Private Family Suite

Private Family Suite | Living area

Private Family Suite

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed, 1 Double Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

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About the neighborhood

Cambridge

Located in Central Square within a short walk of Harvard University, Ginkgo House on Harvard is within a mile (2 km) of other popular sights such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This 19-room, 3-star inn welcomes guests with conveniences like free in-room WiFi, express check-in, and express check-out.
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What's nearby

  • Harvard University - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Harvard Square - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Kendall Square - 4 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Boston University - 4 min drive - 1.6 miles

Getting around

  • Central Square Station - 8 min walk
  • Union Square Station - 19 min walk
  • Boston, MA (BNH-Boston Harbor Seaplane Base) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪1369 Coffee House - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Cantab Lounge - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Dumpling House - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Möge Tee - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪India Pavilion - ‬8 min walk

About this property

Ginkgo House on Harvard

Inn in Cambridge, near Harvard University
Ginkgo House on Harvard features free WiFi in public areas, express check-in, and express check-out. Staff members are on hand to provide dry cleaning/laundry services and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a picnic area, barbecue grills, and a garden.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and wired Internet. Bathrooms offer rainfall showers and hair dryers. Microwaves, ovens, and stovetops are also standard. Bathrooms are shared; housekeeping is available on request.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
  • In-room WiFi speed: 250+ Mbps (good for 3–5 people or up to 10 devices)
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi and wired internet

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking available only on request

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave

Conveniences

  • Luggage storage
  • Virtual front desk

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom

More

  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Detached shared bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste (on request)
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Cleaning supplies
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Free bottled water
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Shared kitchen access
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster oven

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Portable fan

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 9:00 PM
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and an access code; access will be through a private entrance
Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link
If you are planning to arrive after 9:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
A virtual front desk provides assistance to guests
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Access code, private entrance

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Checking in and out are easy with express services.
Property Registration Number C0344430491

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Ginkgo House on Harvard Inn
Ginkgo House on Harvard Cambridge
Ginkgo House on Harvard Inn Cambridge

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see close to Ginkgo House on Harvard?

This inn is situated in Central Square within a short 16-minute walk of Harvard Square. You'll also find Fenway Park and TD Garden within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Ginkgo House on Harvard?

Yes, though parking is available on request.

Does Ginkgo House on Harvard have a casino on the premises?

No, Ginkgo House on Harvard doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Ginkgo House on Harvard?

No, there is no indoor pool at this inn.

Is Ginkgo House on Harvard good for couples?

Couples staying at this inn will appreciate amenities like a rainfall showerhead and free Internet access as well as a garden.

Are there hot tubs at Ginkgo House on Harvard?

No, this inn doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Ginkgo House on Harvard have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

No, Ginkgo House on Harvard doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Ginkgo House on Harvard allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Ginkgo House on Harvard.

Does Ginkgo House on Harvard have connecting rooms?

No, this inn doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to Ginkgo House on Harvard?

The closest major airport to Ginkgo House on Harvard is Boston, MA (BNH-Boston Harbor Seaplane Base), which is 6.2 mi away (27 minutes by car). Another top airport is Logan International Airport (BOS), which is located 5.9 mi away (23-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Ginkgo House on Harvard?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Ginkgo House on Harvard.

Ginkgo House on Harvard Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 62 out of 75 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 75 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 75 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 75 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 75 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Heather

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Ideal for stays near Harvard and MIT

Lovely property. Clean and convenient location with an attentive staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
It’s been a wonderful stay! The staff is incredibly kind and helpful. Accommodations have been wonderful for many reasons- one, it’s very clean. The beds are so comfortable and it’s a charming place! It’s been an excellent experience and being walking distance to Harvard yard is just great.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Scott

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Amenities
Nancy (runs the place) is great. Room and overall facility is very clean. Minimal amenities (shared kitchen and dining room), which is fine. I just needed/wanted a place to sleep. I've never stayed at a b&b type of facility before. I'm more used to standard hotels. Not sure how I feel about the format. No shoes required inside which I'm used to from home. I was not aware I booked a shared bathroom room. Definitely not used to that. Will need to pay more attention to that when booking next time. According to Nancy, most rooms there do have bathrooms in the room. Mine was only 1 of 2. My biggest worry was that I would lock myself out of my room when using the bathroom so carrying the key with me at all times took some getting used to. About an 8 minute walk from the nearest T station. 2 blocks from a Whole Foods which was nice. About a 10 minute slow run to the river. No gym in the facility but found out later that there is a YMCA about a 5 minute walk away which you can use via a day pass for $20 or so. Quiet hours from 10pm to 8am. Feels very much like staying at a friend's house who likes things quiet.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

ALEXANDRA

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Historic house...
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Xiaoqin

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
rhhh
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chokchai

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Love the atmosphere and the Japanese tradition to keep the place quiet and clean,
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Toni

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a gem! Gingko House was the perfect place to stay for 4 nights. Close to transportation and easy to get into the city and to Harvard square. The hotel was spotless and the staff kind and accommodating and went above and beyond to keep us comfortable. It was a very hot week while we were there and Nancy would offer to switch on the ac in the room before we got back so it would be cool when we arrived. The beds were comfortable and the shared amenities were just what we needed. Would highly recommend and hope to be back in the future. Thanks to all the staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Cheryl

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Needed to stay in the area. This was a good option and reasonably priced.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

steven

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Walter

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Delightful friendly place, quiet street

Delightful friendly place, quiet street, convenient location. Very comfortable. Large, clean well appointed room with all needed amenities. If I get back to Boston again this will be my first choice. If you have difficulty with stairs request a room on the first floor.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sam

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Cambridge gem

A gem of a property located on a very quiet Cambridge street. Easy access to anything in Cambridge. Run by a delightful "innkeeper" who will make sure you have a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Joseph

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ulviyya

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice place
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Madeleine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was a wonderful experience staying at the Ginko House. Very charming hotel in a beautiful neighborhood. The staff was thoughtful and very friendly. Would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Fatima

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kamyar

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great stay. Staff very nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Émilie

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

William

My daughter and I had a one night stay at Ginko House and it was a wonderful experience. Beautiful, well maintained old house in a quiet and convenient location. Excellent service from Nancy and Sophia. I hope to return
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yanling

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I stayed at Ginkgo House on Harvard while attending a conference and couldn’t have been happier. The place was spotless, the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the whole atmosphere made me feel right at home. The location is super convenient—close to everything I needed. I’ll definitely recommend this place to all my friends and would love to stay here again. Thank you for a great experience!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Friendly staff, delightful historic and tastefully remodeled. Walking distance to Harvard
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yonina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
For us, the location was perfect as it was a five minute walk in a very safe neighborhood to our daughter's apartment. The owner was very friendly and connected well with us, explaining the door lock mechanism and inquiring about our grandkids. Our room was clean, comfortable, and bright. The room was made up each day of our stay. New towels and water bottles were provided without having to request them. Hubby's only disappointment was the lack of a TV in our room. I definitely would reserve at Ginkgo House again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Judy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was comfortable. Some things I would have liked: - more towels (e.g. hand towel & wash cloth); and disposable hand towels in the shared bathroom. - a fan in the bathroom (I was swetting after I finished drying my hair; I have a small fan in my own bathroom, and it really helps!) Otherwise, I enjoyed my stay; wish it could have been longer.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025