Alewife / Cambridge Highlands
Shopping centers & suburban convenience
Why Visit Alewife / Cambridge Highlands?
Alewife and Cambridge Highlands combine urban convenience with natural beauty. Positioned where the Red Line meets Fresh Pond Reservation, this neighborhood serves as Cambridge's gateway—offering essential retail alongside access to 162 acres of conservation land. Perfect for visitors who want the convenience of national brands while staying connected to Cambridge's residential neighborhoods and natural spaces.
The Answer
What to do in Alewife / Cambridge Highlands
Alewife / Cambridge Highlands is shopping centers & suburban convenience. Alewife and Cambridge Highlands combine urban convenience with natural beauty.
Top Picks
Selection Criteria
Top spots in Alewife / Cambridge Highlands selected for authenticity and local reputation.
About This District
Anchored by Fresh Pond Mall and Alewife Brook Parkway, this area offers big-box retail alongside local gems.
Who Alewife / Cambridge Highlands Is For
Residents seeking a quieter Cambridge experience away from the main squares
Those who want everything walkable — some areas require a bus or bike to reach restaurants and shops
How much neighborhood identity exists even in residential areas — each block has its own character
District Highlights
- Fresh Pond Mall
- Alewife T station
- National retailers & services
- Residential neighborhoods
A Perfect Day in Alewife / Cambridge Highlands
morning
Grocery shopping at Whole Foods, explore Fresh Pond Mall.
afternoon
Lunch at mall restaurants, errands at various retailers.
evening
Dinner at a chain or local spot, movie at Apple Cinemas.
Quick Facts
Locals can identify neighborhoods by their coffee shops.
“I saved Latin. What did you ever do?”
— Max Fischer, on neighborhood preservation