MIT Parking

Parking Near MIT

Located on the north side of the Charles River Basin in Cambridge, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is one of the premier universities in the country that specializes in the development of innovative modern technology. Originally known as "Boston Tech," MIT was incorporated in 1861 to accelerate the Industrial Revolution but didn't arrive at its current location across the Charles River from Boston's Back Bay until 1916.

Situated between Central and Kendall squares, you'll find MIT's sprawling 168-acre campus with the original Maclaurin Buildings that surround Killian Court boasting majestic neoclassical architecture. The most recognizable of these buildings is the Barker Engineering Library, featuring the school's famous Pantheon-like dome. You'll also find modernist brick buildings, such as the MIT Chapel and Baker House. In contrast to the more traditional buildings, the campus boasts several unique modern art-inspired buildings by noted architects, including Frank Gehry's Stata Center, Steven Holl's Simmons Hall, Fumihiko Maki's Media Lab Extension, and Charles Correa's Building 46.

Throughout the campus are 3,500 pieces of contemporary works of art. And if you love modern art, head over to the List Visual Arts Center. In addition to its eclectic architectural style and many different on-campus galleries, MIT is known for its high-tech on-campus nuclear reactor, wind tunnel, and towing tank.

You'll find the university's Welcome Center in Kendall Square, next to the Kendall/MIT MBTA subway station. Kendall Square is also home to the school's Admissions Office and the relocated MIT Museum, famous for its hologram collection and other technology-related exhibits. Because MIT is such a popular destination, parking in the area is extremely hard to find and very expensive. Save yourself time and money while guaranteeing that you'll have a spot waiting for you when you arrive by booking through SpotHero, where you can shop for the best prices around.

FAQs

Does MIT offer parking?

Yes, but most parking is for students, faculty, and staff. There is visitor parking available in the 139 Massachusetts Avenue Visitor Lot and several other local garages. Note that parking in the visitor lot fills up quickly, so you may want to reserve your space through SpotHero instead.

Can I find street parking near the university?

Yes, but street parking is metered, heavily regulated, and extremely hard to come by. In fact, the university warns visitors about the lack of area street parking near the campus. Instead, book your spot with a local garage or private space holder ahead of your visit through SpotHero.