The city of Waltham offers a combination of history, arts, and nature escapades on your weekend getaway.
You’ll get to explore a plethora of historic sites, nature preserves, and more at Waltham.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back outdoor adventure, informative trip to the museum, or a fun shopping spree, this city in Massachusetts has got you covered!
Are you planning a trip to this vibrant city in Massachusetts soon?
Then read on for the 15 best things to do on your trip to Waltham.
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A visit to the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation is a must for history buffs looking to discover the region’s fascinating history of development and innovation.
The museum is home to a collection of intriguing artifacts, cultural insights, and inspiring stories that showcases the remarkable history of America’s industrial revolution.
The Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation is housed in an 1814 building preserved to hold Massachusetts’ rich history.
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You can try many marvelous hands-on tools to replicate the exact experience of using famous inventions relevant to the industrial revolution.
Aside from the interactive exhibits, you can also join the engaging events organized at the museum to amp up your experience.
The Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation is Waltham’s gem that will truly delight both the young and the young at heart.
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A weekend getaway to Waltham wouldn’t be complete without stopping by at the city’s shopping hub and community center.
Downtown Waltham is the destination for all your shopping needs, where you can scour through a vast selection of stores that offers an eclectic array of items.
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You can also purchase the Shop Downtown Discount Card to get exclusive savings and support the community, the local economy, and partner charities.
After a tiring stroll through shops, you can choose from various restaurants offering different cuisines to satisfy your cravings and give you an energy boost.
Downtown Waltham is the destination to meet the locals, get acquainted with the town, and support local business owners in the city.
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If you enjoy enthralling works of art, don’t forget to check out the Rose Art Museum.
In 1961, Brandeis University established the museum and named it after its benefactors, Edward and Bertha Rose. It remains to house an eclectic collection of art.
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Aside from strolling through the gallery, delve deeper into the realm of arts by joining the programs organized by the museum, like workshops, film screenings, and more!
A trip to Rose Art Museum will surely fill your trip with a remarkable experience, so don’t forget to reserve your tickets to explore the museum.
If you’re looking for another stop in Waltham to spend a relaxed time surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, then spend a day at Shady’s Pond Conservation Area.
This quaint park in Waltham features walking paths in a rustic setting surrounded by wooded areas and wetlands.
If rugged hiking trails seem daunting, the Shady’s Pond Conservation Area is the go-to place for a short hike.
You can go hiking, biking, or relax under the shade of trees while you enjoy the birds chirping and leaves blowing.
The Shady’s Pond Conservation Area is Waltham’s best-kept secret where you can spend an unspoiled time surrounded by nature.
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If your definition of a day well-spent is to be surrounded by the serene ambiance of nature, then pack your outdoor essentials and head out to Prospect Hill Park!
This outdoor recreation area in Waltham offers a serene hiking spot under the lush canopies of the trees.
As you hike through the hiking trails, you’ll be rewarded with the fascinating sight of the panoramic view of the woods and the downtown Boston area.
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There are benches around the park where you can sit and relax under the shade of the tree or have a picnic in the designated picnic area of the park.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by spending a short day trip in this nature respite in Waltham.
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The city of Waltham is rich in historical landmarks that celebrate the region’s abundant history; another testament to this is the majestic Stonehurst.
Stonehurst, the Robert Treat Paine Estate, features the fascinating architecture inspired by different periods combined with stone masonry surrounded by 100 acres of woodlands.
This rustic place is perfect for spending a quiet time surrounded by the eclectic combination of history and nature.
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You can tour the house, where you’ll surely marvel at the intricately-designed interiors, or stroll through the charming landscape of the area.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, you can also hike through the historic woodland trails in the area.
This hidden gem in Waltham is the perfect place to appreciate the city’s rich history and surround yourself with nature.
Stray away from your daily cares and unwind at the serene natural area of Upper Charles River Reservation.
This outdoor space features a hiking trail along the waters to enjoy the sight of the glistening water surrounded by lush greeneries.
You’ll get to see Waltham’s thriving native flora and fauna at the Upper Charles River Reservation, where various wildlife abounds in the area.
Aside from hiking and birdwatching, you can also go paddling on your kayak or canoe to explore the waters and go fishing to reel in some fresh catch.
The Upper Charles River Reservation is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors on your Waltham trip.
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Tour another gateway to the old times in the mesmerizing Lyman Estate situated in Lyman Street in Waltham.
The Lyman Estate is another historic country house in Waltham built in the 1970s for the shipping merchant Theodor Lyman and his family.
The mansion, now turned into a museum, features the story of the Lyman family and life in the late 1880s.
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The Federal-style mansion features an elegant ballroom, an oval parlor, and preserved historic furniture.
The Lyman Estate grounds are always open for the public, where you can hang out and enjoy a relaxed time.
You can also join events organized at the Lyman Estate, like the popular movie nights every summer and more!
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Chill out with the best-tasting craft beer at hand paired with hearty grubs at Waltham’s Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co.
This local brewery in Waltham boasts the best-tasting craft brews and the lively atmosphere you’ll truly enjoy.
You can choose to sit inside the taproom while you chug down your choice of beer or enjoy the lively atmosphere in their open beer garden.
You can even sit right in the brewery with the view of the large fermentation vessels and watch them in action, from brewing to canning.
Enjoy a pint of beer matched with some hearty grubs from the food truck while enjoying the music with friends and family at the Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co.!
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Another iconic stop in Waltham is the charming Gore Place located in Gore street, which remains a valuable edifice in Waltham.
Gore Place used to be a private estate for the Gores in 1806, and it consisted of a private mansion, a working farm, and a carriage house.
Now, Gore Place is open for visitors to tour and get a glimpse of the remarkable architecture and history of the home.
The museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the early 19th-century American life as it progressed to modern innovations.
Aside from touring the mansion to see historical household items, you can also participate in the events organized at Gore Place or hang out at the museum’s expansive grounds.
A trip to the Gore Place will surely keep you in awe and delight you with lively events, so make it a point to stop by at this historic country house in Waltham.
Enjoy the tranquil sight of nature without straying too far away from the city at Riverwalk Park.
This quaint park features a paved walking trail by the river, where you can appreciate the view of the Charles River.
The River Walk Park is the go-to place in Waltham if you want to take a breather from your stress and worries.
Take a casual stroll through the scenic walkway, sit by the bench as you listen to the birds chirping, or watch the swans and ducks swim in the flowing river.
This park in the city of Waltham is the ideal spot if you’re looking to kill some time and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
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Go on a unique exploration surrounded by the collection of eclectic artworks at the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln.
A 15-minute drive to the museum is worth it once you stroll through the park with fascinating outdoor sculpture installations.
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This unique sculpture park and museum boasts phenomenal works of art made by famous artists that will pique your interest.
The park’s grounds offer peaceful, expansive walkways with well-designed landscaping to ensure a relaxed experience.
A visit to the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum makes for a unique experience on your trip to Massachusetts.
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Are you looking for the best spot to go picnicking with the family?
Head out to Beaver Brook Reservation situated between the dividing line of Waltham and the town of Belmont.
This 59-acre park boasts the flowing brook surrounded by lush greeneries where you can relax with the sound of cascading waters.
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There are picnic tables in the park, so make sure to pack some snacks and have a picnic while you let the youngsters have their time in the play area.
The Beaver Brook Reservation makes for an idyllic nature escapade where you can go hiking and picnicking with the family.
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Located 15 minutes outside of Waltham is the public park in Arlington that boasts the panoramic sight of the Boston skyline.
This park is perfect if you enjoy the combination of urban architecture and the inner suburbs.
The Robbins Farm Park also houses the famous dual blue slides built into the hill where all ages can enjoy the thrill of going down from an enormous slide.
Lay down a blanket, set up your picnic essentials, and enjoy an afternoon picnic at the park.
This park in Arlington is perfect for families looking to spend a quiet time away from the city.
If your weekend getaway wouldn’t be complete without playing a round of golf, then book your tee time at Stone Meadow Golf.
Located just 10 minutes outside of Waltham is the Stone Meadow Golf, a compact golf course.
The course boasts beginner-friendly pristine fairways combined with elevation changes and hazards for a bit of challenge.
A short game at Stone Meadow Golf is worth it for its budget-friendly prices.
Make sure to visit this golf course in Lexington to enjoy a short game of golf!
A weekend getaway to Waltham makes for an idyllic and memorable exploration experience brimming with fascinating discoveries and thrilling adventures.
Don’t forget to reference this list so you won’t miss out on exciting experiences at Waltham, Massachusetts!
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