Attractions and Places To See around Somerville - Top 20

Somerville is rich in Revolutionary War history. You can visit the Old Powder House, which served as an ammunition storage during the American Revolution, or explore Prospect Hill, where George Washington unfurled the Union Flag. The Old State House and Boston Massacre Site and the Massachusetts State House are also significant historical landmarks nearby, offering insights into colonial America and state governance.

Yes, Somerville offers several green spaces. The Mystic River Reservation, located a short distance from the city center, provides trails through forests and wetlands for fishing, kayaking, or walking. You can also enjoy Prospect Hill Park, which offers relaxing green spaces and views, or take a stroll along the Somerville Community Path, a paved trail ideal for pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, Boston Common, America's oldest public park, is a large green heart nearby, perfect for strolling.

Somerville's cultural scene thrives in its distinct squares. Davis Square is known for its diverse eateries, vintage shops, and the Somerville Theatre, which also houses the Museum of Bad Art. Union Square is a 'foodie's paradise' and home to Bow Market, featuring over thirty businesses including restaurants and art studios. You can also visit the Somerville Museum to learn about the city's history through rotating exhibits.

Families can enjoy various activities. The LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston at Assembly Row is a popular choice. Many of the historical sites like the Old State House and Boston Massacre Site and Massachusetts State House are considered family-friendly. Green spaces like Boston Common and Spy Pond Park offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths for all ages.

Yes, there are several walking and hiking options. The Somerville Community Path is excellent for easy walks and cycling. For more extensive trails, the Mystic River Reservation offers a network through forests and wetlands. You can find detailed hiking routes, including the easy Charles River Pathway Short Loop and Malden River Edge Trail, by exploring the Hiking around Somerville guide.

Somerville and its surroundings offer great routes for cycling and running. The Somerville Community Path is a paved trail perfect for both. For dedicated running, consider routes like the Mass Central Rail Trail or the Boston Science Museum loop. Cyclists can explore routes around Spy Pond or the Alewife Brook Reservation. Find more options in the Running Trails around Somerville and Road Cycling Routes around Somerville guides.

Somerville is known for its vibrant community events. Keep an eye out for neighborhood festivals like the Fluff Festival, celebrating the invention of Marshmallow Fluff, or the HONK! Festival, showcasing activist street bands. The annual Somerville Open Studios event allows you to visit over 300 local artists in their workspaces.

Assembly Row is a popular destination in Somerville offering a mix of outlet shopping, diverse restaurants like La Brasa, and recreational activities such as beach volleyball, pickleball, and cornhole. It's also home to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston, making it a great spot for entertainment and dining.

Somerville is a culinary hotspot. Union Square is particularly renowned as a 'foodie's paradise' with a wide array of global flavors and the popular Bow Market. Davis Square also boasts diverse eateries and live music venues like The Burren, an Irish pub. For a unique dining experience, Tasting Counter offers a highly-regarded tasting menu.

Spy Pond is a 103-acre freshwater kettle pond in Arlington, part of the Mystic River watershed. It's surrounded by Spy Pond Park, which features a playground, picnic areas, and walking paths. The pond is a habitat for various wildlife and is easily accessible via the nearby Minuteman Bikeway, making it a popular natural area for recreation.

While many spots are popular, Norton's Woods, a small lot at the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, offers a quick and serene escape for 'forest bathing.' For less crowded trails, exploring some of the smaller loops within the Mystic River Reservation might offer a more tranquil experience compared to the main paths.

To appreciate Somerville's architectural history, take a walk through the Powder House Square Historic District, which showcases a mix of Greek Revival and Victorian styles. You can also observe the historical markers indicating the path of the Middlesex Canal, an important waterway from the 19th century, offering a glimpse into the city's past infrastructure.