If you like exploring historic houses and learning about the people who once lived there, several museums offer tours you don't want to miss. They provide a fun glimpse back in time, and you're sure to learn a few things about the past.

Here are some great house museums near our Cambridge apartments.

Shirley-Eustis House

Step into the Shirley-Eustis House to learn about the who's who of American Colonial and Federalist history. Built in 1747, it was originally the seasonal home of William Shirley. He worked as the Royal Governor of the Province of Massachusetts Bay between 1741 and 1749. The property later became the home of Governor William Eustis. Over the years, many famous people walked through the doors. Visitors included Benjamin Franklin, John Quincy Adams, and Aaron Burr. Today, you can take a tour, which you can schedule in advance, to learn more.

Otis House

At the Otis House, you'll discover where Beacon Hill began. Owner Harrison Gray Otis played a key role in developing the neighborhood. The guided tour shares stories about his family and tells about when the home served as a clinic and middle-class boarding house. Tours take place between June and October.

Nichols House Museum

Standing since 1804, the Nichols House was the home of suffragist and landscape gardener Rose Standish Nichols and her family. The Nicholses purchased the property in 1885. Now, their furnishings and artwork highlight their life in Beacon Hill between the mid-19th and mid-20th centuries. Pieces include Japanese woodblock prints, sculptures, and locally-made furniture. The guided tours last approximately 45 minutes.

After stepping back in time at house museums, grab a quick meal from a locally ownedfood truck. If you would like to call Luxe at Alewife home, please contact us. We will gladly show you all that our apartments in Cambridge have to offer.