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Harvard House: Make Your 2025 Family Gathering Unforgettable"

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Exterior
Terrace/patio
5 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
TV, fireplace, books, offices
Property grounds

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

Explore the area

View in a map
Waltham, MA
  • Place, Lyman Estate
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, National Archives at Boston
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Bentley College
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, Boston, MA (BOS-Logan Intl.)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Room options

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  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
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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

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 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
During your stay at this vacation home, you'll be close to Bentley College. Features include laundry facilities. Free WiFi and a kitchen are available in the vacation home.
  • Air-conditioned home with kitchen, washing machine, and 2.5 bathrooms
  • Free WiFi
  • Amenities include laundry facilities
  • Onsite recreation includes a playground
  • 12 minutes by car from Harvard University and 11 minutes from Boston College
As a guest of this vacation home, you'll find barbecue grills, a garden, and laundry facilities. The front desk is open around the clock.

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
  • 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
  • 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

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
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 welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • 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 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 has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm 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
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account which will enable you to manage your booking.
Property Registration Number C0196903080

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

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

Harvard House: Make Your 2025 Family Gathering Unforgettable" Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 62 out of 70 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 70 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 70 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 70 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 70 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Shannon S.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis E.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Ann T.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Dana T.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Annie B.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Dallin E.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Colleen G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

roanne k.

Liked: Cleanliness

Warm and welcoming

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

10/10 Excellent

mitchell W.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Martha S., Key Biscayne

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Rumi Q.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Ira D.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Dan p.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Derek G.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

8/10 Good

John R.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

mitchell W.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

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

10/10 Excellent

carolyn r.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Margaret C.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Steven E., Austin TX, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Stephen B.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Jim M.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness

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

Barry L.

Liked: Cleanliness

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