Cambridge Kiosk Visitor Information Center and Community Gathering Space Reopens in Harvard Square

The City of Cambridge, in partnership with CultureHouse and the Cambridge Office for Tourism, announced today the transformation of the historic kiosk in Harvard Square into the Cambridge KiOSK - a dynamic cultural incubator, community gathering space, and visitor information center. An opening day celebration will take place on Friday, May 30 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. with live music, refreshments, and a speaking program. This free event is open to all in the community.

Visitors will be among the first to step inside the KiOSK and explore its inaugural exhibit: a pop-up newsstand celebrating Cambridge’s rich print media history. The rotating exhibit will explore themes including the legacy of Out of Town News, the influence of radical newspapers, and the role of music and cultural publications in shaping Cambridge’s creative identity. A series of weekly “15 Minutes of Cambridge” talks will also accompany the exhibits.

“The reopening of the Cambridge KiOSK is a milestone for our community,” said Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang. “This transformation respects the KiOSK’s rich history while creating new opportunities for gathering, creativity, and civic engagement in the heart of Harvard Square. We are excited to see it thrive as a welcoming hub where residents and visitors can connect and celebrate Cambridge’s cultural vibrancy.”

Following the opening ceremony, the KiOSK will officially open to the public with hours of operation set for Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Designed as a welcoming hub, the reimagined historic space will host cultural programming, events, and visitor resources, to celebrate diverse community. From live music and poetry, open mics to arts workshops , and rotating historical exhibits, the KiOSK will offer something for everyone. Programming will encompass visual arts, music, literature, and local history, featuring hands-on art workshops, intimate live music performances, stand-up comedy, and site-specific art installations.

The opening month's installations will honor the KiOSK’s past as the former site of Out of Town News, including a multi-part exhibition exploring the legacy of independent publishing in Cambridge and a sculptural display of paper airplanes crafted from historic newspaper articles highlighting key moments in the kiosk’s past. Over time, the KiOSK’s programming will continue to evolve, shaped by the creativity and interests of the Cambridge community.

The re-envisioning of the Cambridge KiOSK, which is a designated Cambridge Landmark, was guided by a two-year, community-driven process aimed at capturing the needs and aspirations of the community. This inclusive approach ensured that the space reflects the diverse voices of Cambridge.

In addition, CultureHouse has posted an interest form for artists, creatives, non-profit organizations, and businesses who want to bring engaging events and activities to the KiOSK. This opportunity is open to anyone looking to contribute to the cultural vitality of Harvard Square.

“We’re excited to bring the Cambridge KiOSK to life as a vibrant community space that showcases the creativity and diversity of Cambridge—with a focus on systemically marginalized communities,” said Aaron Greiner, Executive Director of CultureHouse. “Out of Town News once brought global conversations to Harvard Square when news from overseas was hard to access. Today, information from around the world is readily available on our phones, but it's local connections that are often hardest to find. By partnering with local artists, creatives, and community leaders, we’re transforming this historic landmark into a dynamic hub where people can connect with neighbors, share ideas, and experience culture. We look forward to seeing the KiOSK become a place where visitors and residents alike feel welcome and inspired.”

The Cambridge Visitor Information Center, operated by the Cambridge Office for Tourism, previously served visitors from the Information Booth in Harvard Square. During the KiOSK renovations, visitor services have been provided from a temporary location on the first floor of Cambridge Savings Bank.

"We are thrilled to be relocating our current Cambridge Visitor Information Center into the historic Out of Town News kiosk—a beloved landmark in the heart of Harvard Square. At the Cambridge KiOSK, visitors will find more than just information; they’ll receive personalized recommendations, curated itineraries, and insider tips to experience the very best of Cambridge’s arts, culture, and history”, says Interim Executive Director of Cambridge Office for Tourism, Candice Beaulieu. "This space has long been a gateway for discovery, and we’re excited to continue that tradition with the help of our dedicated volunteers—many of whom were loyal customers of Out of Town News. Their enthusiasm and deep connection to this space and our City make them the perfect ambassadors to welcome travelers from around the world and share all that makes Cambridge unique.”

In addition to engaging programming and services, KiOSK visitors will also be able to enjoy the beauty of the structure itself, and the work that has been done to restore it.

“The renovations were made possible by a dedicated and collaborative team of architects, engineers, and historians whose passion and expertise have helped transform this treasured building into a modern amenity, while honoring and celebrating the historic details that make it so special,” said Kathy Watkins, Commissioner of Public Works, City of Cambridge. “This has truly been a labor of love for everyone involved. I encourage visitors to the Cambridge KiOSK to take a moment to look up at the exquisitely restored roof, the interior wood ceiling, and the brick columns—all meticulously preserved—as well as the thoughtfully designed modern windows, open entrances, and custom cabinetry that complement the historic character. Care and intention went into every aspect of the design and construction.”

The reopening of the Cambridge KiOSK is a key component of the broader transformation of Harvard Square’s central plaza. The City’s reconstruction of the plaza, which began in September 2024 and is expected to be completed in fall 2026, will further enhance this gathering space with improved accessibility, landscaping, and public seating.

For more information and to see the full programming lineup, visit cambridgekiosk.org.