Inman Square

History comes alive in Inman Square, a primarily residential neighborhood that abuts Cambridge's Central Square neighborhood. Inman Square sits directly north of Central Square at the intersection of Inman, Hampshire, and Cambridge Streets. The National Register of Historic Places lists several Inman Square structures on its hallowed list. Because of structural preservation concerns, homeowners in the neighborhood have little leeway for modifying the appearances of their homes. However, the preservation of venerable buildings ensures property values for single family dwellings remain above the average for similarly designed homes found in other Boston neighborhoods.

As with many neighborhood squares within greater Boston, Inman Square refers to both a commercial district and residential neighborhood. The neighborhood sits in the Boston Plain adjacent to the lower land called the Cambridge Plain. Culturally diverse, Inman Square is home to an eclectic demographic base that includes Harvard students and faculty, as well as professionals that commute to downtown Boston. The bucolic charm of Inman Square comes alive in the small shops that line Cambridge and Hampshire streets. Ethnic eateries rival the quality of the ethnic eateries that operate in more publicized Boston proper neighborhoods. ImprovBoston, which presents Boston's oldest improvisational theater troupe, operates in the Inman Square neighborhood.

Residents of Inman Square do not have to travel far to enjoy the beauty of open green spaces. Several parks provide the perfect antidote to the stress induced by big city living. Public trails give walkers and cyclists the chance to stay in shape, and the Cambridge Parks and Recreation system offers numerous organized sports leagues. Both the MBTA red and green lines stop near Inman Square, as well as several bus routes that take passengers to their residences throughout Cambridge. Commuters cross the Charles River to access the Massachusetts Turnpike for short trips to downtown Boston.