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Harvard House: Make Your 2025 Family Gathering Unforgettable"

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Outdoor dining
Property grounds
Interior
5 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Interior

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Pet friendly

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Harvard House: Make Your 2025 Family Gathering Unforgettable"

HARVARD HOUSE: THE GATHERING PLACE — Beautiful Home. Spectacular Property. Magical Experience

Welcome to Harvard House! My name is Robert, and my wife’s name is Tao. It’s our greatest pleasure to share this special place with you

This Stylish Updated Victorian on 20 Secluded Acres — Just 15–20 Minutes from Boston

Ideal for Small Weddings, Bridal Showers, Milestone Birthday Parties, Remembrance Celebrations, Team Building, and Photoshoots

What Our Guests Say:

"Our wedding at Harvard House was an unforgettable experience."

"We had a beautiful remembrance celebration that brought the whole family together."

"The team truly came together, aligned on objectives, and created a rallying momentum."

While we all pursue individual goals in life, what makes us human is our shared nature as "Creatures of Conviviality," thriving in the joy of gathering together.

Our mission goes beyond simply providing a well-maintained place to stay with all the amenities. We strive to offer a unique gathering spot for you, your family, friends, and colleague

We have one goal in mind . . . Its to do everything possible to create an atmosphere that not only delivers "Moments of camaraderie" with people who truly matter in your life, but "Moments of Happiness."

You can Cook Together, Break Bread Together Talk together, and Think Together in ways that would never happen at other venues that a pricier and less personal
An All-Around Better Experience than You’ll Find at a Marriott, Hilton, or Even the Ritz

Harvard House is a beautiful home that easily accommodates 10+ overnight guests and groups of 18-25. (More for Weddings)

it’s nestled on 20 acres of secluded woodlands on the Waltham-Lexington border, offering a peaceful retreat away from the city bustle.

Located just 15 minutes from Harvard Square and 25 minutes from downtown Boston, and away from the city bustle.

It has what the Chinese call “Feng Shui”—subtle yet powerful good vibes that create an ideal setting for reconnecting with family, friends, and colleagues.

Guest Reviews:

"Wow, you have a beautiful house!"

"What a wonderful setting!"

"This place worked great for our team."

"Thanks for sharing your retreat!"

An All-Around Better Experience than You’ll Find at a Marriott, Hilton, or Even the Ritz

Harvard House easily accommodates 10+ overnight guests and groups of 18-25. Located just 15 minutes from Harvard Square and 25 minutes from downtown Boston,

it’s nestled on 20 acres of secluded woodlands on the Waltham-Lexington border, offering a peaceful retreat away from the city bustle.

While the house and property may not be flawless, they embody what the Chinese call “Feng Shui”—subtle yet powerful good vibes, creating an ideal setting for reconnecting with family, friends, and colleagues.


Guest Reviews:

"Wow, you have a beautiful house!"

"What a wonderful setting!"

"This place worked great for our team."

"Thanks for sharing your retreat!"

Harvard House is perfectly located for nearby graduations (Harvard, MIT, Brandeis, Bentley), sports events (Boston Marathon, Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, Bruins),

There are great walking trails and other nearby estates with great architecture to visit

Tao and I are here to ensure your group has a memorable and meaningful experience. If there’s anything we can help with, don’t hesitate to ask

Property manager

Robert Hargrove

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 5 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Meal delivery service
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • In the city center
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • On a lake
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Whale watching nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 30

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
1 total (up to 50 lbs per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 23
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number C0196903080

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Castle--beautiful House Boutique Guest Quarter Waltham
Castle--beautiful House Boutique Guest Quarter
Castle--beautiful Boutique Guest Quarter Waltham
Castle--beautiful Boutique Guest Quarter
20 OFF Feb-march Beautiful House Boutique Guest Quarter Waltham
20 OFF Feb-march Beautiful House Boutique Guest Quarter
20 OFF Feb-march Beautiful Boutique Guest Quarter Waltham
20 OFF Feb-march Beautiful House Boutique Guest Quarter Waltham
20 OFF Feb-march Beautiful House Boutique Guest Quarter
20 OFF Feb-march Beautiful Boutique Guest Quarter Waltham
20 OFF Feb-march Beautiful Boutique Guest Quarter
Beautiful House Boutique Conference Center Guest Quarters
Harvard House Boutique Conference Center Guest Quarters
Beautiful House Boutique Conference Center Guest Quarters
Beautiful House Boutique Conference Center Guest Quarters
Harvard House-We Bring Families Together For a Living Waltham

About the neighborhood

Map
Waltham, MA

What's nearby

  • Brandeis University - 5 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Bentley College - 5 min drive - 2.5 km
  • Harvard University - 12 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Boston College - 13 min drive - 11.0 km
  • Harvard Square - 13 min drive - 12.6 km

Getting around

  • Waltham Station - 3 min drive
  • Riverside Station - 8 min drive
  • Bedford, MA (BED-Laurence G. Hanscom Field) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Panera Bread - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Boston Kebab - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Aries Noodle & Dumpling - ‬2 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet.

What time is check-in at Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue located?

This family-friendly Waltham vacation home is located on a river, within 3 mi (5 km) of Bentley College and Boston Children's at Waltham. Brandeis University and Lexington Battle Green are also within 6 mi (10 km).

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Harvard House: Make Your 2025 Family Gathering Unforgettable" Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 58 out of 66 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 66 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 66 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 66 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 66 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Martha S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thank You for an Unforgettable Weekend!

What an incredible weekend! The location and surroundings were absolutely stunning, and we truly didn't want to leave. We’re already looking forward to returning soon! Thank you, Robert, for your exceptional kindness and hospitality.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ira D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Everyone enjoyed it

Such a great location. So much better than a hotel room for our wedding event
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

mitchell W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous House For a Family or Group Gathering

Once again, we are so appreciative of all the comfortable first-floor spaces to spread out as a family. The kitchen is equipped to produce a fully home-prepared feast—all the utensils, pots, pans, knives, and dishes you might need. The dining room table can comfortably accommodate a very large group. Cozy beds, extra blankets as needed, and loads of towels. The host is very communicative and caring.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dan p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family

Great home. Perfect location and host was always available to answer any questions. I highly recommend this property.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Boston Adjacent Home

We had a lovely Galloween getaway with my 5best friends and 1.5 year old son this October. The house and property are beautiful. It was a perfect setting for pumpkin carving, sipping mulled wine, and lazy morning strolls. Robert was so helpful in getting us set up since we arrived quite late on the day of check in. He answered all our questions and made check out a stress free process.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

John R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication

Family gathering spot

This was an ideal place to stay for a 3-day weekend visit. The property is magnificent. The house, though old, is well maintained and very comfortable. The central location makes it easy to access attractions in the area
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Derek G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Graduation 2024

Brought 8 family members into Boston for a college graduation. The house was cozy and we like the sitting areas outside. The house was big enough for privacy too. It was an easy drive in from the airport and also allowed good access to campus. My family really enjoyed the charm of the home and it will be a part of the memory of the weekend.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exactly as Advertised - lovely home and property

Beautifully decorated home on large private property. Quiet and peaceful. Close to town and historic sites. Owner is a fascinating man who made check in and departure easy and quick and was fun to converse with about whatever interests you may have. Price is great too.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome experience

We brought 3 generations into one house and there was something for everyone. A wonderful covered deck for talking. Great grounds for kids to play and explore. It was truly an oasis. The owner Robert could not have been more charming. We loved this home away from home.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

mitchell W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another Terrific Stay

We returned to the Harvard House and had another terrific stay. Can’t say enough about the well-equipped kitchen if you are doing serious cooking. And, for a large group, the house provides an opportunity to spread out – the dining room (including a sizeable table that can seat a large group), spacious living room, and club room (with a cocktail table large enough for a 1000-piece puzzle). We also appreciate the excellent communication from the host.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

James G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Yalie at the Harvard House

I wish we had more time to enjoy the wonderful property and house, but we were in Boston for business. A clean lovely old house with ample towels, huge bathrooms and comfortable beds. Located near many convenient Waltham restaurants and stores, and not to far from Boston/Cambridge. We ate at Taqueria Mexico twice - Excellent food and Margaritas. Even though the name pains this Old Blue, we will try to book Harvard House again for next year. Thanks for a great stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Mary Ellen B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Graduation weekend

House is large and easily accommodated party of 20-25 indoors. Weather did not cooperate or we would have enjoyed large outdoor area.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Steven E., Austin TX, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Outstanding Experience

As the venue for the recuring reunion of 12 of my closest college chums, the charm and features of Harvard House contributed to the best experience we've ever had. I can't exaggerate the thoughtfulness that Robert, the owner, has invested into the amenities and beauty of the place. If your event is important, this is the place to have it.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

carolyn r.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

6BR house Secluded by woods in middle of Waltham!

We used this beautiful old house as a base for our family the 4 days that included our son’s wedding. It worked out perfectly. We really enjoyed sitting out on the porch with the fall color, totally hidden from the rest of the world. Kitchen has tons of herbs and spices for cooking and some appliances you don’t often see, like a double air fryer and an espresso machine. Comfortable beds, lots of places for gathering to socialize. Lots of off street parking. Very unusual property. Would stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis N., Little Rock, AR 72205. USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place

The house and gardens were lovely and we had plenty of room for our large family. We especially enjoyed the front porch where we could watch deer, wild turkeys, and rabbits. Boston is easily accessible, about 20 minutes, and we enjoyed a day in Plymouth and half day trips to Concord/Lexington and Salem, all short drives. The host was very helpful with suggestions for things to do, restaurants and grocery stores. He was available by text, phone and email. I highly recommend this rental and we would love to return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Margaux K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Graduation Weekend

The "Harvard House" was amazing. It was very spacious and the outdoor setting was fantastic. We had wonderful weather over the weekend and were able to spend a lot of time on the comfy porch as well as exploring the grounds. We were in town for a graduation from Northeastern University so we had to travel back and forth into the city and this location was perfect easy ride into Boston as well as scenic and peaceful suburban surroundings to relax in. The house it self was beautiful, old and full of wonderful art. I really liked the stain glass window in the living room. I would consider this as an option for renting again if I need the space in the future. We had six adults and one infant and there was plenty of space for everyone to have their own space.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jim M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An amazing house inside and out!

This is an amazing property! We stayed with my my family (my wife, my son and myself); by brother’s family (3 including a 4 year old) and our mom. There was more than enough room, and all of the bedrooms were great! The outdoor spaces are ideal for socializing with larger groups too. There is a train in the center of the town that we took to Boston a few times. It’s a 20 minute train ride which worked really well for us with the kids. The property owner, Robert, is very patient and an easy person to work with in general. He really loved this place and it shows. I’d highly recommend this property if you have a large group!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barry L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing experience

Harvard House is much more than a place to stay. It’s an experience. Between the expansive grounds, amazing amenities and luxurious property, it is a location where friends and family can hang out, reconnect, forge new bonds, and play! We chose Harvard House because we needed enough rooms/beds for 8 family members coming into Boston for Emerson College graduation. We also needed a place where we could host a graduation party for about 20 people. Harvard House was bigger than what we needed for sleeping space, and had plenty of room inside and outside for everyone to enjoy drinks, dinner and games. Every one of our guests exclaimed how beautiful the house was. We were surprised how the beautiful architecture, interior design and furnishings can impact the mood and energy of a gather like that. Our hosts were extremely responsive, available whenever we had a question or needed help with anything. We would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Patrisia M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

The house is absolutely stunning and in a great location and very private as well. We took our two miniature dachshunds and private walks around the property were delightful. The old beautiful trees around the house attract a lot of different birds. We counted over 12 different species and owls! Beautiful barred and great horned owls! We would have appreciated it, if the owners had removed the different piles of tarps, garden tools and wheel barrows that were spread out throughout the property including at the entrance of the driveway. These piles made the garden and property look untidy and disorganized. We also felt some of the carpets upstairs needed to be professionally cleaned as well as the carpet that covers the stairs. Lastly, it would have been helpful to have hooks and cabinets for clothes and toiletries in the bathroom upstairs.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Margaret C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Personals retreat between medical treatments

Harvard House is a gorgeous property. It’s 30 acres of open forrest with lots of space between to find new areas and topography to explore - such a rare treat, each day. The approach to the house, and the grounds closer to it are beautiful and well attended, while feeling very natural to the setting. There are also lovely out door seating areas to take full advantage of this setting. The house is unique, grand, but also a place to feel at ease, in a richly historic setting. The range of art & collections throughout the house are generous to see so close, and to sit with through our stay. The bathrooms are renovated, yet feel still back in, maybe the deco era. The kitchen is made for cooks, everything just where you want and need it to be, because this is a place you want to extend time to gather together. The beds are so comfortable, linens & towels presented like a top B&B. Robert is also very reachable, communicative & helpful. This spot does also have great potential for micro-weddings & retreats as Robert’s advertising. I think as this venue intention becomes more cultivated, this will be fulfilled more in years to come. I look forward to seeing how this blossoms at Harvard House, does with the because they’ve done such wonderful things with this one of a kid d spot thus far.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Lee P., Baltimore

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A taste or rural Massachusetts in the city

The house is set on 20 or so wooded acres above a fairly busy street, so it is not rural quiet, but the noise is not bothersome. The layout of the house is charmingly eccentric, with all sorts of nooks and crannies and odd little rooms. The stairs are a bit steep and I had a little trouble negotiating them with a suitcase, but I am in my 70s. The décor is Old New England. The kitchen is very well equipped, although all we ate in the house was breakfast. There were six of us, two couples and two singles. There is only one bathroom upstairs and one bathroom and a powder room downstairs. It was a little tight, and might be a problem for a bigger group. I would advise packing travel bath robes. The house was immaculate. Some of the outdoor facilities still needed their summer prep. Spiders had taken over the gazebo. Also it really needs a better address sign. View it on Google street view so you don't miss the nearly invisible driveway (very rural). This is a plus or minus: the bedrooms don't have blackout blinds. I like them, but another person said how glad she was the bedroom didn't have them. All in all I liked it; it was much, much better than a hotel, and during this pandemic I felt safer in it than I would have in a hotel.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shelanda P., fairfield county Connecticut

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

ABSOLUTELY PERFECT! LOOK NO FURTHER! !!BRIDAL SHOWER VENUE!!!

I've booked multiple vrbo and other rental properties both for business, pleasure and events. This Property was by far the best experience I have had to date! The Property was beautiful! The staff was so accommodating. And the host Robert was amazing. We hosted a bridal shower for 20 prople on the Property on Saturday . And prepped on Friday. Upon arrival Robert and his staff were on site and ready to great me. They were completing finishing touches to make sure the landscaping was perfect. I didn't mind that they were still there because they allowed me to arrive over 2 hours early to select the perfect spot to set up our tent. The house has the perfect amount of privacy. Inside the house the kitchen was perfect for us to prep all of our food and our drinks! There were two VERY clean restrooms for our guests to use. Several bedrooms for anyone spending the night. And no shortage of restrooms. The location of the house is also perfect. There is a florist 8 mins away! The also have balloons. There is a market about 5 mins away. A drug store near by. Everything you need is near by. Even though the property is close to everything you would never guess because you can't hear or see any traffic from the house!! I was a little worried that there wouldn't be enough parking for all of our guests. But the property actually has soooo much parking. We probably had about 10 cars parked comfortably. Robert was available and communicating with me weeks before the event. He sent pictures of the property, and even assisted in recommending rental companies to us. The only thing I wish is that we could have stayed longer!!! I would 1000% book the house again without question.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rumi Q.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

mitchell W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great house and location for our family gathering.

All the things that matter are there. Beds could not have been more comfortable with super soft cozy comforters and plenty of pillows. The upstairs bathroom had a nearly endless supply of towels, so important for a large family group. The kitchen had everything needed for a traditional Thanksgiving, even an instant-read thermometer and a Turkey platter. And the house is so spacious, with gathering spaces for family in the kitchen, dining room, club room, and living room. Lots of room to spread out. And love the unique touches of the house: the turret, the Turkish chandelier, and the butler’s pantry walk-through (which included a coffee and tea bar). Host was Incredibly available and responsive.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Karyn P., Columbus, OH

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful house. Great character.

We greatly enjoyed Harvard House for a long weekend in Boston to attend a wedding. Our family had plenty of space and lots of ambiance at the house. The location is close to Boston and easy for highway and mass transit. Great choice for a large gathering.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022