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Things To Do in Melrose, Massachusetts

Ell Pond

This scenic 14-acre natural pond in the heart of Melrose offers peaceful walking trails, fishing opportunities, and beautiful views. The pond hosts an annual festival and features recreational amenities including tennis courts, sports fields, and the popular Melrose Dog Park along its shores.

Ell Pond

Phone: (781) 979-4100

Melrose Victorian Fair

Melrose Farmers Market

Operating from June to October, this vibrant farmers market features fresh local produce, artisanal baked goods, handmade crafts, and specialty foods. The market provides an excellent opportunity to support local vendors while enjoying the community atmosphere and discovering seasonal delights.

Melrose Farmers Market

Phone: (781) 979-4100

Melrose Farmers Market

Boston Rock

This significant geological landmark in the Middlesex Fells offers panoramic views and serves as a popular hiking destination. The massive granite outcropping provides excellent photo opportunities and represents the ancient geological forces that shaped the New England landscape.

Boston Rock

Phone: (617) 727-5380

Mass.gov DCR

Giacomo’s Ristorante

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a comfortable, traditional atmosphere at this local favorite restaurant. Giacomo’s offers generous portions of classic Italian dishes, including fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and traditional favorites, making it perfect for both everyday dining and special occasions.

Giacomo's Ristorante

Phone: (781) 662-5210

Giacomo’s Ristorante

Lincoln Field

This multi-purpose sports facility features baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and recreational areas for various athletic activities. The field hosts local sports leagues, youth programs, and community events, providing excellent opportunities for both organized sports and casual recreation.

Lincoln Field

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Melrose Diner

This classic American diner serves generous portions of fresh, homestyle cooking in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Famous for their all-day breakfast menu, the diner offers everything from fluffy pancakes to hearty dinner plates, making it a beloved local gathering spot.

Melrose Diner

Phone: (781) 662-4445

Melrose Diner

Swains Pond

This peaceful pond on the east side of Melrose provides excellent fishing opportunities and scenic walking paths. The quiet waters attract various waterfowl and offer a tranquil setting for nature observation, photography, and peaceful reflection away from the bustling downtown area.

Swains Pond

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Towners Pond

Located on the eastern edge of Melrose, this smaller pond offers intimate nature experiences with walking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. The pond provides a quiet retreat perfect for bird watching, meditation, and enjoying the natural beauty of wetland ecosystems.

Towners Pond

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Lebanon Park

This cozy neighborhood park features a playground, basketball courts, and softball field nestled next to beautiful wooded areas. One of the quieter parks in Melrose, it offers a perfect setting for family recreation and serves as a peaceful gathering spot for the local community.

Lebanon Park

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Lincoln School Playground

This popular playground at Lincoln School offers excellent recreational facilities including two separate playground areas with swings, jungle gyms, slides, plus a baseball field and basketball court. The well-maintained facilities make it a favorite destination for families throughout the year.

Lincoln School Playground

Phone: (781) 979-4140

Melrose Public Schools

Buckalew’s General Store

This charming old-fashioned general store offers a delightful shopping experience with everything from candy and toys to home goods and unique gifts. The store captures the nostalgia of a bygone era while providing modern conveniences and locally-made souvenirs.

Buckalew's General Store

Phone: (781) 665-7777

Buckalew’s General Store

Melrose Arts Festival

This annual celebration showcases the vibrant local arts community with exhibitions, workshops, live performances, and interactive demonstrations. The festival brings together artists, musicians, and art enthusiasts for a weekend of creativity and cultural exchange in the downtown area.

Melrose Arts Festival

Phone: (781) 979-4100

Melrose Arts

Conant Playground

This neighborhood playground provides excellent recreational facilities for children with modern equipment, safety surfaces, and plenty of space for active play. The playground serves as a community gathering place where families can enjoy outdoor activities and children can develop social skills.

Conant Playground

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Foss Park

This well-maintained community park offers open green space, recreational facilities, and a peaceful environment for relaxation and outdoor activities. The park provides an ideal setting for picnics, casual sports, and community gatherings in a beautiful natural setting.

Foss Park

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

My Diner

This friendly neighborhood diner specializes in generous portions made with the freshest ingredients and serves as a true community gathering place. The welcoming staff and comfortable atmosphere make every customer feel like family, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

My Diner

Phone: (781) 665-9999

My Diner

Morelli Field

This athletic facility serves as a hub for local sports programs including baseball, softball, and youth leagues. The field features well-maintained playing surfaces, spectator areas, and modern amenities that support both recreational and competitive athletics in the community.

Morelli Field

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Fred Green Memorial Field

Named in honor of a community leader, this memorial field provides recreational opportunities for various sports and community activities. The field serves multiple purposes throughout the year and stands as a tribute to those who have contributed to Melrose’s athletic and community programs.

Fred Green Memorial Field

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Home for the Holidays

This magical December festival transforms downtown Melrose into a winter wonderland with holiday lights, carolers, festive decorations, and a special visit from Santa Claus. The event brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season with family-friendly activities and seasonal entertainment.

Home for the Holidays

Phone: (781) 979-4100

Home for the Holidays

Ellen Rolli Contemporary Art

Visit this contemporary art studio featuring the abstract and intuitive works of local artist Ellen Rolli. The studio showcases paintings that interpret subject and emotion through daring paint application, vibrant colors, and textural elements, offering visitors insight into the local arts scene.

Ellen Rolli Contemporary Art

Phone: (781) 665-1010

Ellen Rolli Art

Bellevue Golf Course

This well-maintained golf course offers excellent playing conditions with scenic views and challenging holes for golfers of all skill levels. The course provides a peaceful retreat from city life while delivering a quality golf experience just minutes from downtown Melrose.

Bellevue Golf Course

Phone: (781) 665-0800

Bellevue Golf Course

Melrose Veterans Memorial Middle School Auditorium

This community theater venue hosts a variety of performances including school productions, community theater, concerts, and cultural events. The auditorium serves as an important cultural hub, providing entertainment and showcasing local talent throughout the year.

Veterans Memorial Middle School Auditorium

Phone: (781) 979-4300

Melrose Public Schools

Melrose Montessori School

This educational institution offers unique learning experiences and frequently hosts community events, workshops, and family programs. The school provides insight into alternative educational approaches while serving as a community resource for families interested in innovative teaching methods.

Melrose Montessori School

Phone: (781) 665-1200

Melrose Montessori School

Melrose Fish and Game Club

This private club offers fishing, hunting, and shooting sports for outdoor enthusiasts, along with hosting various competitions and events throughout the year. The club provides opportunities for sportsmen to practice their skills and participate in organized outdoor recreational activities.

Melrose Fish and Game Club

Phone: (781) 665-1300

Melrose Fish and Game Club

Melrose Garden Club

This active organization maintains several beautiful public gardens throughout the city and offers gardening workshops, plant sales, and horticultural education programs. Visitors can enjoy the club’s garden displays and participate in seasonal gardening events and educational opportunities.

Melrose Garden Club

Phone: (781) 665-1400

Melrose Garden Club

Melrose Historical Society

Discover the rich history of Melrose through guided tours, lectures, historical exhibits, and special programs offered by this dedicated organization. The society provides fascinating insights into the city’s past through artifacts, documents, and storytelling that brings local history to life.

Melrose Historical Society

Phone: (781) 665-1500

Melrose Historical Society

Ell Pond Lake Trail

This scenic walking trail circles portions of Ell Pond, offering beautiful water views and connecting various recreational amenities including the swimming pool, dog park, and sports facilities. The trail provides an excellent opportunity for exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of the pond.

Ell Pond Lake Trail

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Melrose-Wakefield Hospital Campus

While primarily a medical facility, the hospital offers health and wellness programs, educational seminars, and community health initiatives that benefit visitors and residents. The campus occasionally hosts health fairs and public health education events throughout the year.

Melrose-Wakefield Hospital

Phone: (781) 979-3000

Melrose-Wakefield Hospital

MBTA Melrose/Highlands Station

This convenient commuter rail station on the Haverhill Line provides easy access to downtown Boston and serves as a gateway for visitors exploring Melrose. The historic station represents the transportation heritage that transformed Melrose from a rural community to a thriving suburb.

Melrose Highlands Station

Phone: (617) 222-3200
MBTA

Mount Hood Memorial Park & Golf Course

This expansive park features an 18-hole public golf course with elevated tees offering stunning Boston skyline views, hiking trails, and year-round recreational facilities. The park also includes indoor golf simulators during winter months and hosts various community events throughout the year.

Mount Hood Golf Course

Phone: (781) 665-0666

Mount Hood Golf Course

Middlesex Fells Reservation

This massive 2,200-acre natural reservation offers endless outdoor adventures with hiking trails, mountain biking paths, and multiple lakes including Spot Pond. The reservation features diverse terrain created by volcanic and glacial activity, making it perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Middlesex Fells Reservation

Phone: (617) 727-5380

Mass.gov DCR

Downtown Melrose Shopping & Dining

The charming Victorian downtown district features tree-lined streets filled with boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and local businesses. This walkable area offers everything from artisanal bakeries to international cuisine, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and discovering local treasures.

Downtown Melrose

Phone: (781) 979-4100

Melrose Economic Development

Pine Banks Park

This unique park showcases rugged terrain created by ancient volcanic and glacial activity, offering sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds. The park provides excellent opportunities for family recreation with its diverse landscape and well-maintained facilities for various outdoor activities.

Pine Banks Park

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Turner’s Seafood Grill & Market

This authentic New England seafood destination has been serving the freshest catches since 1954, featuring an oyster bar, fish market, and full-service restaurant. Visitors can enjoy traditional favorites like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and daily specials in a genuine maritime atmosphere.

Turner's Seafood

Phone: (781) 662-0700

Turner’s Seafood

Melrose Symphony Orchestra

Experience performances by the oldest continuing community symphony orchestra in the United States, founded in 1918. The orchestra presents classical concerts and special performances throughout the year at Memorial Hall, offering exceptional musical entertainment in an intimate historic venue.

Melrose Symphony Orchestra

Phone: (781) 979-4110

Melrose Symphony Orchestra

Melrose Common

This expansive central park serves as the heart of community life with playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and a historic bandstand. The Common hosts numerous community events throughout the year and provides a perfect setting for family gatherings and outdoor recreation.

Melrose Common

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Lloyd Memorial Swimming Pool

This seasonal outdoor swimming facility offers family-friendly aquatic recreation during the summer months. Located near Ell Pond, the pool provides a refreshing escape with swimming lessons, open swim times, and aquatic programs for all ages.

Lloyd Memorial Pool

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Recreation Department

Melrose Rotary Skate Park

This modern skate park features ramps, rails, and various obstacles for skateboarders, BMX riders, and inline skaters of all skill levels. The well-designed facility provides a safe environment for extreme sports enthusiasts to practice tricks and enjoy the skateboarding community.

Melrose Rotary Skate Park

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Melrose Public Library

This beautifully renovated Carnegie library offers much more than books, hosting children’s programs, author festivals, summer reading programs, and family concerts on the lawn. The library serves as a cultural hub with art exhibits, book clubs, and community events year-round.

Melrose Public Library

Phone: (781) 665-2313

Melrose Public Library

Sewall Woods Park

This peaceful wooded park offers nature trails through mature forest, providing a quiet escape for hiking and bird watching. The park features well-maintained trails that wind through diverse woodland habitats, making it perfect for nature photography and outdoor meditation.

Sewall Woods Park

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

Rising Eagle Publick House

Step into history at this American Revolutionary-themed tavern that celebrates Melrose’s role in the fight for independence. The restaurant offers colonial-inspired cuisine and craft beverages in an atmosphere that honors the Sons of Liberty who once rode through these very streets.

Rising Eagle Publick House

Phone: (781) 665-8888

Rising Eagle Publick House

Melrose Dog Park

This dedicated off-leash dog park provides a safe, fenced environment for pets to run and socialize. With separate areas for large and small dogs, water stations, and agility equipment, it’s the perfect place for dog owners to connect while their furry friends play.

Melrose Dog Park

Phone: (781) 979-4180

Melrose Parks Department

The Beebe Estate

Tour this historic 1828 mansion that now serves as a cultural center hosting art exhibits, social events, and community gatherings. The estate’s elegant rooms showcase period architecture while providing venues for weddings, meetings, and cultural programs that celebrate local arts.

Beebe Estate

Phone: (781) 979-4258

Melrose Council on Aging

Melrose YMCA

This community fitness center offers swimming pools, group fitness classes, youth programs, and recreational activities for all ages. The YMCA serves as a gathering place that strengthens community bonds through health and wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, and family activities.

Melrose YMCA

Phone: (781) 665-3900

YMCA of Greater Boston

Cross Fells Trail

This linear hiking trail begins in Melrose and traverses the southern portions of the Middlesex Fells Reservation through Malden and Medford. The trail offers diverse terrain, scenic views, and connects multiple communities, making it perfect for longer hiking adventures and nature exploration.

Cross Fells Trail

Phone: (617) 727-5380

Mass.gov DCR

Spot Pond

The largest body of water in the Middlesex Fells Reservation, Spot Pond offers excellent fishing, boating, and scenic walking opportunities. This pristine lake provides a peaceful retreat with abundant wildlife viewing and serves as part of the Boston metropolitan water system.

Spot Pond

Phone: (617) 727-5380

Mass.gov DCR

Melrose Victorian Fair

This beloved annual September event celebrates the city’s rich Victorian heritage with crafts, food vendors, entertainment, and family activities. The fair transforms downtown into a festive marketplace showcasing local artisans, historical demonstrations, and community spirit that draws visitors from across the region.

Melrose Victorian Fair

📞 Phone: (781) 665-3033

Official Website

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