As a lifelong native of Massachusetts, I sometimes feel like I’ve been everywhere in the state. But as I re-explore Boston and beyond as a mom with two curious kids, I have learned that there are surprising treasures everywhere. City by city, town by town, I hope to introduce you to the a few of the gorgeous conservation areas, parks, and other family-friendly hidden gems that might not have a marketing budget to attract the crowds, but are great spots to check out and visit with your kids.
This week I’m starting with Watertown, my old beloved home. I lived in Watertown for a long time, and there is a lot of hometown pride; everyone who lives there seems to love it! Urbanish and densely populated, it’s a town with an edge. I’ve noticed a lot of Boston guides pass over Watertown as a family destination, which is unfortunate. There are playgrounds in almost every neighborhood, many family-focused businesses, and many kid-friendly restaurants. There’s a thriving sustainability and environmental movement in town, great cultural diversity, and ethnic restaurants and food shops around every corner. Here are my three favorite hidden treasure Watertown spots not to miss:
Arsenal Park
Arsenal Park is a terrific playground and recreation area tucked in between a mall, office complex, and event center. If you weren’t looking for it, you’d never notice this gem of a play area surrounded by tall trees, grassy fields and shaded free parking. There’s a sprinkler area, covered picnic tables, and climbing structures tailored for both small and bigger kids. I love this place, but I especially love it because we can always find a shady spot to cool off in the summer, there’s always a place to park, and we can pack a picnic to eat in the field or under the trees. There’s plenty of room to fly a kite or kick a soccer ball around with your friends, and you can even get a town permit to host your own outdoor party.
Watertown Library
The Watertown Library is fantastic. Many towns have libraries, but Watertown’s is really special. A massive renovation in 2006 turned an 1884 building into a state of the art, light-filled space for literacy, families, and community. The upstairs has a media center, meeting spaces, and a gorgeous reading room in the original part of the building. This year, the library started a new offsite maker space called HATCH. There’s even a cafe with used books for sale. Free daily programs for kids and adults, a huge children’s room with a technology studio, play area, and activity room, children’s garden, and endless concerts and special events. And, you know, books. Lots and lots and lots of books.
Mt. Auburn Cemetary
Some of you may know this beautiful location, but you might not know how great it is for kids. Grassy and peaceful, wildlife and birds around every corner, and the most spectacular displays of spring blossoms and fall foliage anywhere in Greater Boston. I walked off baby weight with my kids in the stroller, brought my toddlers here to find turtles and blue herons in the many ponds, and joined friends to drink in the beauty on countless play dates. Yes, it’s a cemetery, but when I lived in Watertown I had a yard the size of this page and I was desperate for green and flowers and letting my kids get fresh air. There is a staff naturalist who hosts nature walks, gardeners everywhere who will gladly point out wildlife and birds’s nests, and the most spectacular tower for climbing and taking in a breathtaking view of the entire city of Boston and beyond.
Now it’s your turn…what hidden gems have you discovered in your neighborhood? Want to see your town in this space? Email us and let us know which spots you and your family have discovered off the beaten path.
