Physical Activity — Active Transportation

Physical Activity—Being Active in Cambridge

Cambridge strives to create a physical environment that promotes safe and active transportation– walking, biking, and taking public transportation– and we developed resources and programs to help people of all ages and abilities be active.

Getting Around Cambridge

Cambridge is compact and flat, making it possible for most people to get around the city without a car for at least some of their trips. Walking, biking, and taking public transportation are great ways to travel around Cambridge while being physically active at the same time. Check out our flyer to learn more about the health benefits of walking, biking, and taking public transportation.

Walking and Biking for All Ages

The Safe Routes to School program provides bike and pedestrian training to students in Cambridge. All 2nd grade students complete a bicycle and pedestrian safety unit, and all 6th grade students complete an advanced on-bike training.

The city of Cambridge offers a series of bike workshops to teach people of all ages and abilities about topics such as bike maintenance, urban cycling basics, how to rent a Bluebike, and more. A list of upcoming workshops and recordings of past workshops are available.

The Healthy Aging and Cycling program is designed to help those ages 50+ of all abilities get in shape for biking, and to learn and practice safe riding skills. We created A Guide to Cycling in Cambridge for Older Adults to share information about choosing the right bike, riding comfortably and more.

Bluebikes

Bluebikes is a city-owned bikeshare system that operates in Cambridge. With over 70 docking stations in Cambridge, there is always a station nearby for picking up or returning a bike. In addition to a standard membership, Bluebikes also offers a reduced-price membership for residents who have SNAP, MassHealth, or qualify for most other forms of public assistance. For assistance with enrolling in a reduced-price membership, please send an email to [email protected].

Parks, Playgrounds, and Recreation Opportunities

The Cambridge Recreation Department offers various programs for adults, children, and families, including sports leagues and programs at the War Memorial Recreation Center. 

Through the Council on Aging, the Citywide and North Cambridge Senior Centers offer programs and classes for those ages 60+.

The city of Cambridge has over 80 parks and open spaces, including playgrounds, tot lots, waterplay areas, and sports fields. Click here to view an interactive map of parks and playgrounds.

Get Families Moving at Home

You and your family can be active at home too! Check out our collection of games and resources to keep families moving!

Updated: January 11, 2024