Visitors to Harvard Square looking for a t-shirt, a pennant, or a glass engraved in crimson colors only need to walk a few streets: four official stores share a 300-meter radius around the famous John Harvard statue and, for the most part, open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The exact addresses, updated 2025 hours, and flagship products are listed below so every traveler leaves with an authentic souvenir 🧳.
Official souvenir shops in Harvard Square: addresses and 2025 hours
Four retailers concentrate the bulk of Crimson items:
- 🎓 The Harvard Shop – 1380 Massachusetts Ave (flagship).
- 📚 Harvard Coop – 1400 Massachusetts Ave, large historic building.
- 🧢 Crimson Corner – 6 John F. Kennedy St, ideal for a quick purchase before the guided tour.
- 🏈 The Harvard Square Store – 65 Mt Auburn St, specializing in sports equipment.
| Name | Address | Hours | Flagship Products 😎 |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Harvard Shop | 1380 Massachusetts Ave | 10 a.m.–8 p.m. | Hoodies, magnets, Harvard Spirits glassware |
| Harvard Coop | 1400 Massachusetts Ave | 9 a.m.–9 p.m. | Books, Harvard Memorabilia, educational games |
| Crimson Corner | 6 JFK St | 10 a.m.–7 p.m. | The Crimson Gear caps, keychains, pins |
| The Harvard Square Store | 65 Mt Auburn St | 11 a.m.–8 p.m. | Campus Store Harvard jerseys, official balls |
For a visual overview of the shopping streets, a short virtual stroll is helpful:
Planning your visit according to crowd levels
Tour buses drop off most groups around 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Arriving before 10:30 a.m. or after 6 p.m. guarantees quick access to fitting rooms and registers.
- ⏰ Morning: ideal for Harvard Book Store (1256 Massachusetts Ave) which opens at 9 a.m.
- 🌆 Late afternoon: golden light perfect for photos in front of the “Veritas” banner.
Official Crimson items: mugs, hoodies, and limited collectors
The 2025 collections focus on eco-friendly textiles and small series aimed at collectors.
- 🧥 “Est. 1636” Hoodies: 100% organic cotton, three shades of red.
- 🥃 Harvard Crest Shot Glass $14.99: perfect for a light gift.
- 📖 Harvard Spirits notebook: recycled paper, silver logo.
- 🏆 Limited edition “Game Day 2025” at Campus Store Harvard: 1,000 numbered copies.
An animated preview of the new items can be found in the video below:
Compare prices and spot promotions
The student managers of The Harvard Shop often apply a 10% discount starting from 3 items purchased. Between September and October, Harvard Gift Shop (34 JFK St) offers a back-to-school pack at $49.99 including a notebook, mug, and beanie.
- 💲 Discount combinable with free US shipping for orders > $99.
- 📦 Returns possible within 30 days, ticket or e-receipt required.
Practical tips for successful shopping around Harvard Yard
Between purchases, just cross the street to enjoy a burrito at Felipe’s or a latte at Crema Café. An ideal rhythm is to alternate tasty breaks and cultural visits.
- 🍫 Try the signature hot chocolate at Harvard Book Store Café to wait comfortably during lines.
- 👜 Use the free locker at the Harvard Coop to avoid carrying multiple bags.
- 🚲 Rent a Bluebikes bike to connect Watertown and enjoy tax-free shopping in Massachusetts.
- 🔗 Need inspiration elsewhere? Check out the Parisian addresses here or the Tahitian finds there.
| Tip 🔍 | Time / money saved |
|---|---|
| Subscribe to The Harvard Shop newsletter | Exclusive promo codes -15% |
| Visit during weekdays | Reduced crowds ↘️ 30% |
| Group purchases with friends | Access to free shipping |
To extend the “souvenir” experience beyond Cambridge, other practical guides are available, from Morocco to Castile, not forgetting the medieval alleys of Troyes or the oceanic workshops of Oléron.
Frequently Asked Questions about Harvard Souvenirs
Which item sells the fastest?
The “Harvard Crimson Classic” hoodie typically sells out within two weeks after restocking; an online alert is recommended.
Is it possible to buy remotely?
Yes, The Harvard Shop online store ships to 45 countries, with tracking and secure payment.
Are the products sold in-store different from the website?
About 20% of the collection (dated pins, commemorative glasses) remain exclusive to physical stores.
Can a jersey be personalized?
On-the-spot printing service is available at 65 Mt Auburn St; allow 15 minutes and an extra $12.
What are alternatives if time is short?
Harvard Spirits at Boston Logan Terminal C sells a limited selection for travelers in a hurry.
