Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts
ArchitectureFree Admission

Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts

Harvard Square
30 minutes - 1 hour

About This Exhibition

The Carpenter Center is the only building in North America designed by Le Corbusier, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. Completed in 1963, its bold concrete forms, signature pilotis, and spiraling ramp make it a pilgrimage site for architecture enthusiasts worldwide. The building houses Harvard's Department of Visual and Environmental Studies and the Sert Gallery, which hosts free contemporary art exhibitions.

Exhibition Highlights

1
Only Le Corbusier building in North America
2
Signature pilotis and spiraling pedestrian ramp
3
Sert Gallery with free contemporary art exhibitions
4
Brutalist concrete masterpiece
5
Walk-through ramp from Quincy to Prescott Street

Visitor's Advisory

  • 1.Walk through the spiraling ramp even if galleries are closed
  • 2.Combine with Harvard Art Museums directly next door
  • 3.Photography of the exterior is a must for architecture fans
  • 4.Free exhibitions change regularly - check the website
  • 5.Best photographed from Quincy Street for full facade view

Arriving by Rail

Harvard
8 minute walk
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Nearby Exhibitions

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Walking Tours

Where to Eat Nearby

All Harvard Square restaurants →

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Mon-Sat 12pm-5pm during exhibitions

Admission

Free

Address

24 Quincy St, Cambridge, MA 02138

Best Time to Visit

During exhibition hours for indoor galleries. Exterior viewable anytime.

Accessibility

Ramp access; some gallery areas may be limited

Official Website

Visit Website

Harvard Square

Historic heart of intellectual Cambridge

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Curator's Note

A photograph is obligatory. A moment of reflection, optional but recommended.

Guide to Cambridge

Every attraction tells a story. This one is yours to discover.