Background
Hallmark Condominium is a 7-story 37-unit residential condominium located at 284 Harvard Street, Cambridge Massachusetts. The condominium units are individually owned. Each Unit Owner owns his/her unit and an undivided share of the common areas. Completed in 1970s, Hallmark was later converted into condominium in 1980. It typified the genteel, middle-class, mid-rise brick-facing building which had become fashionable in the newly-developed mid-Cambridge during the 1970s and early 1980s. It also boasted such amenities as garage parking, elevator, laundry room and roof deck.
Our Neighborhood
Mid-Cambridge, also known as “Area 6”, is a neighborhood of Cambridge, Massachusetts. The area is a large, high-density residential neighborhood with around 13,000 residents, bordered by Prospect Street to the east, Kirkland Street to the west and Massachusetts Ave. to the south and the City of Somerville to the north. Major commercial centers lie at three corners of the neighborhood: Central Square, Harvard Square, and Inman Square. Many Harvard University and MIT denizens make up Mid-Cambridge’s population. These residents, whether they are homeowners or renters, have a profound effect on the enclave’s cultural and social identity, as well as economic development. As a result, mid-Cambridge is known for its eclectic collection and wide variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.
Transit – Both Central Square and Harvard Square serve as major transit stations for the Hallmark residents. Massachusetts Avenue, which connects the two squares, is a major travel route and commercial spine. Hallmark Condominium is conveniently located near the public transportation. The closest subway stop to the building is the Red Line Central Square stop on Massachusetts Avenue between Prospect Street and Massachusetts Avenue. Other close stops are Harvard Square (off Mass Ave) and the Kendall Square stop (off Main Street). The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 93. The Bluebikes bike share system is integrated across the municipalities, so travel is seamless.
Voting – Hallmark Condominium is in Ward 4, Precinct 2. Our convenient polling place for voting in municipal, state and federal elections is located at the City Hall Basement, 795 Mass Ave (Driveway Entrance), Cambridge MA 02139. For more information, please contact Cambridge Election Commission, 51 Inman St, 1st FL, Cambridge, MA 02139 (617)349-4361.
Practical Information
Getting Around
- Purchase a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket for easy and affordable travel on the MBTA.
- Take advantage of the free walking tours offered by the Cambridge Office for Tourism.
- Check out the BlueBikes rental stations throughout the city.
Annual Events
- Cambridge Science Festival (Spring)
- Cambridge Arts River Festival (June)
- Head of the Charles Regatta (October)
- Harvard Square Oktoberfest
- Cambridge Carnival International
Safety Tips
- Cambridge is generally safe but exercise normal urban precautions
- Well-lit streets and active police presence
- Emergency services: 911
- Cambridge Police non-emergency: (617) 349-3300
Harvard Square
The heart of Cambridge and home to Harvard University, Harvard Square is a vibrant neighborhood combining historic charm with modern energy. The area serves as a cultural and commercial hub, attracting students, tourists, and locals alike.
- Browse the iconic Harvard Book Store, an independent bookstore since 1932
- Take a free walking tour of Harvard University’s historic campus.
- Enjoy a scenic walk along the Charles River.
- Visit the Harvard Art Museums, which house an impressive collection of European, Asian, and American art.
- Visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History and its famous Glass Flowers exhibit.
- Explore the Harvard Art Museums, comprising three museums under one roof.
- Harvard Square is also home to numerous cultural events and public lectures at Harvard University.
- Catch live performances at the American Repertory Theater, one of the most innovative theaters in the country. Street performers also add to the lively atmosphere of the square.
Harvard Square is a shopping haven, featuring a mix of independent bookstores, boutique shops, and high-end retailers.
Must-visit stores include:
- The Harvard Coop – Multi-level university store with books, clothing, and gifts
- Black Ink – Quirky gift shop with unique items
- Mint Julep – Boutique clothing store for women
- For a fine dining experience, check out Harvest, which serves locally sourced New England cuisine.
- For casual bites, Tasty Burger, Felipe’s Taqueria are excellent choices.
- Cambirdge Common for drinks and live music.
Other Classics:
- Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage – Famous for creative burgers and nostalgic atmosphere
- Henrietta’s Table – Farm-to-table restaurant known for its Sunday brunch
- Pinocchio’s Pizza – Beloved student hangout serving Sicilian-style pizza
- Tatte Bakery & Cafe – Popular spot for pastries and Mediterranean-inspired dishes
Central Square
Known for its diverse dining scene, live music venues, and multicultural atmosphere, Central Square is designated as a Cultural District by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
Explore the colorful graffiti alley. Visit the MIT Museum to learn about the latest advancements in science and technology, or take a walk around the campus and admire the modern architecture.
The neighborhood is decorated with vibrant street art and murals. Additionally, the Central Square Theater hosts thought-provoking plays and performances.
Enjoy live music at The Middle East, a legendary venue featuring local and international acts. Alternatively, check out ImprovBoston for some comedic fun.
Central Square is home to unique vintage stores, music shops, and locally owned boutiques.
Stores included:
- Central Square Vintage – Collection of vintage clothing stores
- Cheapo Records – Vinyl records and CDs
- Boomerangs – Thrift store supporting AIDS Action Committee
- Seven Stars specializes in metaphysical books and gifts.
- Oleana and Pammy’s are the top choice for fine dinning.
- Little Donkey and Loco Taco are great for group gathering.
- Veggie Galaxy and Verveine Cafe & Bakery for Creative vegetarian and vegan food.
- Mad Monkfish, Five-Spices House, and Mart Food Court – Various Asian cuisine options
Kendall Square
Home of MIT, this area is a hub of innovation and technology, with many biotech and tech companies calling it home. Kendall Square also boasts the MIT Museum and a growing number of restaurants and shops.
Take a tour of MIT’s campus, explore the MIT Museum, or relax at North Point Park. Walk or bike along Charles River.
- MIT Museum – Showcasing innovation and scientific discovery
- Kendall Square Cinema – Independent and foreign films
- Check out MIT’s List Visual Arts Center for contemporary art exhibitions.
- Public art installations also dot the area, making it an open-air museum.
- MIT Campus tours
- Broad Institute – Cutting-edge biomedical research center
- Cambridge Innovation Center – Hub for startups and entrepreneurs
- Enjoy high-end dining at Catalyst or Area Four for delicious wood-fired pizzas.
- Mamaleh’s Delicatessen for a classic Jewish deli experience.
Other options:
- State Park – Casual spot with comfort food
- Area Four – Known for artisanal pizza
- Blue Bottle Coffee – Premium coffee shop
Porter Square
This vibrant neighborhood is known for its independent shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a great place to find unique gifts, discover new artists, or enjoy a delicious meal.
Take a casual walk through the neighborhood’s charming streets, or visit the nearby Danehy Park for outdoor activities.
Live music fans can head to Lizard Lounge for intimate performances, while comedy lovers will enjoy local stand-up acts at The Comedy Studio.
The Lesley University College of Art and Design often hosts public exhibitions showcasing student and faculty work.
Porter Square has a variety of specialty shops, including Porter Square Books, a beloved independent bookstore. The Porter Exchange is a hidden gem for Japanese goods and anime collectibles.
Porter Square is a hotspot for Japanese cuisine, with restaurants like Yume Ga Arukara (famous for udon), Ittoku, Cafe Mami and Sugidama for sushi lovers.
Other options
- Sugar & Spice – Thai restaurant
- Gustazo Cuban Kitchen & Bar
- Giulia for award-winning Italian cuisine.
- Yafa Bakery & Cafe for Palestinian Bakery
- Petsi Pies for dessert pies
- Zoe’s for Sichuan and Hunan Chinese cuisines.
Inman Square
A hidden gem with a local vibe and excellent dining options.
Explore the neighborhood’s famous neighborhood gems like café 1369 Coffee House and take a walk along Cambridge Street.
The neighborhood is home to various art studios and galleries showcasing local artists. The Out of the Blue Too Art Gallery is a great stop for contemporary art lovers.
Inman Square is filled with quirky shops like Great Eastern Trading Co. for vintage clothing and Stellabella Toys for unique gifts.
Inman Square is a foodie paradise, featuring destinations like Puritan & Co. for modern New England cuisine and All Star Sandwich Bar for hearty, creative sandwiches.
Other classics:
- S&S Restaurant – Historic deli and restaurant
- The Druid – Traditional Irish pub
- Christina’s Ice Cream – Artisanal ice cream shop
- Moona – Modern Moroccan food.
Hallmark
Resources
-
Site Map
Copyright © 2025 Hallmark Condominium Trust. All Rights Reserved