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Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience

Photo gallery for Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience

A two-story house with a balcony, surrounded by lush greenery and flowering plants. - Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience (Waltham)
A stone pathway leading through a garden with small plants and a white fence in the background. - Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience (Waltham)
A bedroom with a bed, a nightstand, a lamp, and a window with a view of trees. - Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience (Waltham)
A wooden deck with wicker furniture, including a sofa and chairs, and a small table with a potted plant. - Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience (Waltham)
A cozy living room with a leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a patterned rug. - Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience (Waltham)
Experience the serene ambiance of Harvard House, a beautifully restored Victorian home on 20 secluded acres near Boston. Its tranquil setting and upscale amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen with an espresso machine and comfortable living areas, make it perfect for family gatherings or corporate events.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Add dates for prices

About this property

Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience

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

    My name is Robert Hargrove. Booking Harvard House for a Family Gathering is not just an alternative to staying in a hotel. It's a cure for today's Loneliness Epidemic.

    At Harvard House, you connect with the people who you really care about and create shared experiences—things no Zoom call, birthday text, or TikTok video can ever give you

    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 approx 25 - 30 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 colleagues.

    We have one goal in mind . . . It's to do everything possible to create an atmosphere that not only delivers "moments of camaraderie" with people who truly matter in your life, but also "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 are 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 20 minutes from Harvard Square and 30 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!"

    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 amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

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
  • Up to 23 kg 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 centre
  • 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 and check-out are 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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

Guests are required to message us on the VRBO site to set up a call within 48 hours to clarify goals, set expectations about the house, review rules.
You can have an event with a total of 18 people for free. An event charge of $850 will be charged for between 18 and 25 people. Confirm in writing
Guests are asked to present a photo of a government ID. Guests are required in the event they have an even to sign a standard rental agreement

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total (up to 23 kg per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: There is a $50 pet fee per pet per night

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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: 18
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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 transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Piety Corner, a neighbourhood in Waltham, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Berklee College of Music and Boston Museum of Fine Arts are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Boston Harbor and Encore Boston Harbor. Travelling with kids? Make time for New England Aquarium, or head to an event or a match at Fenway Park. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including whale watching. Visit our Waltham travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Boston
Map
Waltham, MA

What's nearby

  • A classical building with columns and a blue door, surrounded by trees and people walking.
    Harvard University
    18 min drive - 15.0 km
  • A cityscape with a prominent stadium, a busy intersection, and a skyline with high-rise buildings.
    Fenway Park
    19 min drive - 16.8 km
  • A nighttime street scene with a historic building, street lamps, and a church spire.
    Harvard Square
    19 min drive - 12.6 km
  • A park with manicured hedges, flowering plants, and a city skyline in the background.
    Boston Common
    23 min drive - 19.6 km
  • Lyman Estate
    5 min drive - 2.9 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • Starbucks
    20 min walk
  • Panera Bread
    2 min drive
  • Dunkin'
    2 min drive
  • Copper House Tavern
    3 min drive
  • B&F Pizza
    17 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience located?

This family-friendly Waltham holiday home is located on a river, 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from Bentley College, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Brandeis University and Regis College. Hanscom Air Force Base and Newton - Wellesley Hospital are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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Harvard House--Make Your 2026 Family Gathering An Unforgettable Experience Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 65 out of 73 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 73 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 73 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 73 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 73 reviews

9.6

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Annie B.

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

Great for a family reunion

Just a perfect place to stay. We have two families, different generations, coming from lots of places. Easy to get food, easy to serve food, and they had everything we needed. We will definitely stay here next time we do this.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dallin E.

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

Great gathering space

Our group had a very good time staying at the Harvard House. The host was very communicative and good to work with. There are many good areas for gathering and spending time with friends and family, both inside and out. The secluded nature of the property was a benefit as well. Would stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Steven E.

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Shelanda P.

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at the Harvard House! It was very clean and welcoming. Robert was a great communicator. Wish we would have had more time to explore the area.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

roanne k.

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

Warm and welcoming

A lovely gathering spot for family!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dana T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Harvard House was a perfect location for my family while we were in Boston for a large family event. Everyone had a comfortable bed in their own room and there was enough space for groups to gather. I especially appreciated that there were more than enough plates, the pots were large enough to cook for a croud, there were extra linens (sheets, blankets etc) in each room and plenty of towels in the baths. Robert was a very accomodating host as well.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis N.

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ann T.

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

Family of the Bride Wedding Party

This property provided a lovely backdrop for preparation for our daughter’s wedding. It allowed us as the parents of the bride to host our whole immediate family overnight and other out of town guests during the day, as we would have done had we had our own home in the area. On Thursday evening following the rehearsal, we gathered for an informal pizza dinner on the „green” at Harvard House with friends and family members. Friday morning we turned the diningroom into a hair and makeup salon for the bridal party, mothers, and bride. After makeup, both bride and groom dressed at the Harvard House in different areas and then had their „first look” in the garden there. The grounds provided an idyllic setting for photos! Saturday morning, we hosted a bagel breakfast, again on the „green”, for out-of-town guests before they got on the road. The property was perfect and the host was very gracious.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

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