Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer and a last few days of fun before a return to the routine. Living in the Patriot’s Trail area of Boston there are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore, whether you are looking for history, nature, art or outdoor adventures! Our Beyond Boston magazine has some great suggestions for weekend pursuits at any time of year – here are some of our favorites to send summer off with a bang!
History
There’s a reason it’s known as the Patriot’s Trail – this area is teaming with sites of great historical significance. Take a stroll around Lexington or Concord to see some of the key locations at the heart of the American Revolution – try the Battle Road Trail including North Bridge, the site of the “shot heard around the world” or the Minuteman Statue on the corner of Lexington’s Battle Green. Round it off with a visit to the newly-refurbished Concord Museum to see how it all came together in their virtual exhibit.
Nature
Animal-lovers will enjoy a trip to Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm in Lincoln, where you can experience life on a working farm and explore a wildlife sanctuary at the same time. If the weather does not cooperate for outdoor pursuits, try The Butterfly Place in Westford, where you can get up close and personal with native and tropical species in their natural habitat.
Art & Literature
Combine your love of art and the outdoors with a visit to deCordova Sculpture Museum in Lincoln. If you enjoy literature, take a trip to see Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House in Concord or Thoreau’s cabin. Or take a trip to Salem, where you can get your history fix exploring the sites of the famous witch trials, then enjoy art from around the world at the Peabody Essex Museum.
Outdoor Adventures
Visit any of the gorgeous North Shore beaches to soak up the last rays of summer! Within an hour’s drive you can reach the stunning Gloucester beaches of Wingaersheek or Good Harbor, explore the coastal town of Rockport and enjoy a delicious seafood supper at the famous Woodman’s in Essex. If you want somewhere to cool off closer to home, try Walden Pond in Concord, made famous in the writings of Henry David Thoreau.
For more ideas for weekend wanderings grab a copy of our Beyond Boston magazine or guide – available at any of our offices or these local businesses.