METROWEST
They were on time. Protected surrounding rhododendrons. Carefully cut a 4 story double pine and ground the stump. Replaced shrubs that they moved. Great clean-up job.- S.J. FANTASTIC! OUTSTANDING! REASONABLE!
Very professional team. Fast and reliable. Great price. Thank you so much. -Tony
C.
Very professional and willing to answer all questions. Removed huge tree in a tough spot and did it perfectly without damaging anything around it. Great clean up and fair pricing. Would highly recommend! - Jane F.
Golden Gate Consulting
Melissa is very intuitive and in tune with the spiritual world. Whether you’re looking for guidance for the future, or to reach out to loved ones, her services can help you to move forward and live your best life. If it is your first time with this type of service, Melissa will do a great job explaining everything to you and will make you feel comfortable. She’s very easy to talk to.
DINING
Offering
SHOPPING
From
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
ASHLAND
Police Department
508-881-1212
Fire Department 508-881-2323
Town Hall
508-881-0100
Ashland High School 508-881-0177
Ashland Middle School
David Mindess Elementary School
508-881-0167
508-881-0166
Henry E. Warren Elementary School 508-881-0188
FRAMINGHAM
Police Department
Fire Department
Town Hall
Framingham High School
Fuller Middle
Walsh Middle School
Cameron Middle
Barbieri Elementary
Brophy Elementary
Dunning Elementary
508-872-1212
508-532-5930
508-532-5411
508-620-4963
508-620-4956
508-626-9181
508-879-2290
508-626-9187
508-626-9158
508-626-9155
Hemenway Elementary 508-626-9150
King Elementary 508-782-7201
McCarthy Elementary 508-626-9161
Potter Road Elementary
508-626-9110
Stapleton Elementary 508-626-9144
Woodrow Wilson Elementary 508-626-9164
HOLLISTON
Police Department
508-429-1212
Fire Department 508-429-4631
Town Hall 508-429-0601
Holliston High School
Robert H. Adams Middle School
Fred W. Miller Elementary School
508-429-0677
508-429-0657
508-429-0667
Sam Placentino Elementary School 508-429-0647
HOPKINTON
Police Department
Fire Department
Town Hall
Hopkinton High School
Hopkinton Middle School
Hopkins Elementary
Marathon Elementary
Elmwood Elementary
NATICK
Police Department
Fire Department
Town Hall
Natick High School
Kennedy Middle School
Wilson Middle School
Bennett-Hemenway Elementary
Brown Elementary
Johnson Elementary
Lilja Elementary
Memorial Elementary
SHERBORN
Police Department
Fire Department
Town Hall
Dover-Sherborn High School
Dover-Sherborn Middle School
Pine Hill Elementary
SOUTHBOROUGH
Police Department
Fire Department
Town Hall
Algonquin Regional High School
Robert E. Melican Middle School
P. Brent Trottier School
Lincoln Street Elementary
Mary E. Finn Elementary
Margaret A. Neary Elementary
Marguerite Peaslee Elementary School
508-479-3401
508-479-2323
508-497-9710
508-497-9820
508-497-9830
508-497-9824
508-497-9875
508-497-9860
508-647-9500
508-647-9550
508-647-6400
508-647-6600
508-647-6650
508-647-6670
508-647-6580
508-647-6660
508-647-6680
508-647-6570
508-647-6590
508-653-2424
508-653-3270
508-651-7853
508-785-0624
508-785-0635
508-655-0630
508-485-2121
508-485-3232
508-485-0710
508-351-7010
508-351-7020
508-485-2400
508-351-7030
508-485-3176
508-481-2300
508-351-7035
SUDBURY
Police Department 978-443-2121
Fire Department 978-443-2239
Town Hall 978-443-8891
Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School 978-443-9961
Ephraim Curtis Middle School 978-443-1071
Israel Loring Elementary School 978-579-0870
Peter Noyes Elementary School 978-443-1085
General John Nixon Elementary School 978-443-1080
Josiah Haynes Elementary School 978-443-1093
WAYLAND
Police Department
Fire Department
Town Hall
Wayland High School
Wayland Middle School
Claypit Hill School
Loker Elementary School
Happy Hollow School
508-358-4721
508-358-4747
508-358-7701
508-358-7746
508-358-3801
508-358-3851
508-358-8601
508-358-8641
TORS CONT RIBU
SHIRLY ELLISON Publisher
“I love providing great content to people around me. Being the publisher of BeLocal MetroWest and Hopkinton Living magazines allows me to do just that, while sharing terrific insight on the area and people that live here. I’ve been living in the MetroWest area for over 20 years and have loved every minute of it. When not working, I enjoy hanging out
KATE TOBIASSON
Contributing
Writer
Raised in Westborough, Kate couldn’t be happier to raise her two rambunctious boys in the same small town that she grew up in. After teaching English for 15 years, she is thrilled to be pursuing a career in writing and marketing. She believes in the power of the story and helping entrepreneurs to develop their narrative. When she’s not at her kitchen table writing, Kate is usually chasing her dog and kids around the MetroWest. They all love a great adventure!
CHRISTINE STRICKLAND
Contributing Photographer
“My love affair with photography began in 1977 when I was in the fifth grade. My Nana allowed me to borrow her camera when my class took a week-long field trip, and that was it… I became hooked on taking photos. Vacations with family and the introduction of digital technology continued to solidify my love for photography.
“After 26 years in Corporate America, I pursued my dream of starting my own photography business: Christine Strickland Photography. I thoroughly enjoy taking high-school senior portraits, as well as shooting professional headshots.
“By and far, I love the laughs that come when I’m taking a family’s photos. I don’t expect young children to be perfectly behaved when I’m with them; I fully anticipate that some of the kids will go hog-wild, and, truth be told, I love these crazy, silly moments. I relish in these moments so much that I often continue to snap away photos.”
STUART BEEBY
Contributing Photographer
Stuart Beeby Photography
Studio specializes in professional portraits for business, individuals, and families in the Boston MetroWest area. His services also include event photography, green screen photo-booth, and video production. In his spare time, Stuart enjoys getting up early to capture local scenery at sunrise, and if you are interested in improving your photography skills, Stuart teaches beginner and intermediate hobbyist photographers at the Lincoln and Sudbury High School adult education program.
METROWEST! WELCOME TO THE
As a welcome to the area, we’d like to help you settle in by giving you a gift card to use at a local establishment! Be one of the first three to email us this month and let us know how you’ve been using your BeLocal MetroWest magazine (places you’ve checked out and/or businesses you contacted).
Reach out to Shirly at shirly.ellison@n2co.com or text 508-571-8571. Please include your comments and feedback, along with your full name and address! Good luck!
Congratulations on your recent move! You picked a great area to settle into. The MetroWest is perfectly positioned between Boston and Worcester, with easy access to both! The area is known for its quintessential New England towns, fabulous school systems, and rich diversity and culture among its residents.
There is so much to do in the MetroWest. From outdoor hiking, boating, and biking to shopping, museums and fabulous restaurants, the MetroWest will certainly provide you with an assortment of things to do, see and experience.
products, but they truly care about their community. I encourage you to give these businesses the opportunity to earn your business. Supporting local means support local jobs, local families and the local community!
So enjoy this guide, get out there and check out the MetroWest, and if you have any questions about this resource guide, want us to promote a great locally owned business or are looking for additional resources to help you get settled in your new home and community, feel free to get in touch with me.
Warm Regards,
SHIRLY ELLISON Publisher
508.571.8571
shirly.ellison@n2co.com
From my past experience, I know how exciting and overwhelming moving can be. It will take some time to get settled into your home, establish new routines and find all the new services you need. The BeLocal Guide was created to make that transition a bit easier, by helping you get acclimated to the area and by offering locals’ insights on their favorites of the MetroWest. Join our BeLocal community on Instagram, @BeLocalMetroWest, and follow us on Facebook at @BeLocalMetroWest.
HISTORY AND HIGHLIGHTS by the town
First settled in 1660, Southborough was originally part of a parcel of land deeded to the Duke of Chauncy of England. Over time, this area divided into Westborough (the area west of Marlborough), Northborough (the area north of Westborough) and Southborough (the area south of Marlborough.)
Southborough incorporated the smaller villages of Cordaville, Fayville, and Southville, which were primarily mill and farming villages throughout the Colonial Era. By the end of the 19th century, Southborough was home to the manufacturing of plaster, straw bonnets, boots, and shoes, among other small goods. Home to two private schools, St. Mark’s and The Fay School, it was recently voted one of the “Best Places to Live” by CNN Money.
Hopkinton Town Common
Before its official incorporation in 1715, parts of Hopkinton were leased for a penny an acre from neighboring towns. Derived from land belonging to neighboring Sudbury, Sherborn, Mendon, Sutton, Westborough and Ashland, Hopkinton was largely a farming town in the 18th Century. As time moved forward, the town became a leading shoe producer, until a number of fires at the end of the 19th Century made the industry less lucrative and sustainable. Each year, the town gains national attention for its location at the start of the Boston Marathon.
WAYLAND
Wayland was the first settlement of the Sudbury plantation, incorporated as part of Sudbury in 1639. The original settlement was clustered one half mile northwest of the present town center, now Bow and Old Sudbury road; the English Puritan settlers were farmers, who worked the land tirelessly, enduring many attacks from Native Americans during King Phillip’s War. The disruptive topic of taxation continued through the American Revolution and 1780, when “East Sudbury” and “West Sudbury” separated by the Sudbury River and socioeconomics became truly separate towns. In 1835, they were renamed “Wayland” and “Sudbury.” Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, commerce traveled along Boston Post Road, and the area was ripe with farms, merchants and the idyllic town grew rapidly. Famous residents of Wayland time include the Rev. Edmund Sears, who wrote “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear,” and Lydia Maria Child, abolitionist, suffragist, and author of “Over the River and through the Woods.”
Southborough Town House
First Parish, Wayland
Photo Credit: John Phelan
SUDBURY
Incorporated in 1639, Sudbury is one of the oldest towns in the nation. They contributed the most militia men during the troubling King Phillip War, also known as the First Indian War, when Native Americans made a major effort to drive colonists out of New England. Sudbury’s participation in the war effort played a pivotal role in the continued colonization of America. Highly religious, the Puritans made attendance at church services compulsory, despite weather conditions or other harsh realities of the times. Home to the Wayside Inn, America’s longest continually operating inn, and is where Henry Wadsworth Longfellow penned Tales of a Wayside Inn, notable for the famed lyrical poem beginning, “Listen my children and you shall hear, of the midnight ride of Paul Revere.” After WWII, the area had an unprecedented economic boom, and it continues to have a thriving business and residential economy.
Martha Mary Church, Sudbury
Photo Credit: Stuart Beeby Photography
Deeded to the Native American Nipmuk tribe in 1701 in addition to a neighboring tract of land, colonials living in the area had to renegotiate their farm lands during what was a turbulent and uneasy peace. Largely settled by Puritans, they incorporated as a town in 1724, diverging from Sherborn to become their own village. Identified in regional history as a “quintessential New England Village” this is a peaceful places, without much notable history or conflict. Instead, this has long been a town where families work and live together – with the exception of the shoe industry of the 19th Century, there have been no large scale manufacturing businesses in town. Today, it is a bedroom community for Boston, and one that is known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
FRAMINGHAM HOLLISTON ASHLAND
Prior to becoming a town, Ashland was largely inhabited by Megunko Native Americans. Known first as “Unionville,” Ashland was incorporated in 1846; territory was taken in nearequal parts from the previously established towns of Hopkinton, Holliston, and Framingham. The development of the town can be credited to the construction of the Boston and Worcester Railroad, which attracted a number of mills during the Industrial Age. Although the mill life dwindled with time and modernization, a local man, Henry E. Warren, developed the Warren Synchronizing Timer in 1916, which was manufactured with the collaboration of G.E. in Ashland through 1979. This important contribution is why the local sports teams are known as the “Clockers.”
Thomas Danforth, an important official in Massachusetts during the 17th Century, was born in Framlingham, Suffolk. He was granted “Danforth Farms” in 1660, which encompassed over 15,000 acres. He resisted petitions to incorporate, and it wasn’t until 1700, the year following his death, that the town was officially founded. During the Civil War, the town was a gathering spot for abolitionists; a number of industries popped up during the 19th Century, including a significant jewelry and watch box manufacturing company. By 2000, Framingham rose to become the largest town in Massachusetts, and it is home to Framingham State University. As of April 5, 2017, the Citizens of Framingham adopted the Home Rule Charter, and Framingham became the City of Framingham.
Framingham Historical Society
Holliston Town Hall
Ashland Town Hall
NATICK SHERBORN
The name of the town comes from the Massachusetts Native American language and means “place of our searching.” It is where John Eliot founded his Praying Indian settlement in 1615, where natives were converted willingly and unwillingly to Christianity. Of note, both Praying Indians and colonists from Natick were members of the militia during the Revolutionary War, and the town was officially incorporated in 1781. Business flourished in the mid 19th century, with cottage industries and factories sprinkled throughout the town. A widespread fire in 1874 destroyed over 18 blocks of buildings and businesses;
By 1674, there were enough settlers in the area to incorporate Sherborn as its own township. The original area was of such an awkward shape that the General Court allowed an exchange of 4,000 acres with the Natick Native American tribes in 1679 – and today, this is the area that comprises much of the present town. Henry Sherburne held many important offices in town during its earliest years and is likely where Sherborn derived its name. Following the troubles of King Phillip’s War, which was very troubling for local
Sherborn Community Center
Natick Common
AND
arts at any given time.
vibrant, historic
fill them. There creating shared and restaurants frequently book like music to serenade diners or simply delight fans.
From those theaters, Shakespeare’s words often ring. Other times, though, experimental or avant-garde stories grace stages in Framingham or Natick. It’s all small, cheap, and accessible.
None of these spots offer the stadium shows or thundering operas of the cities. Instead, they bring art up close and personal. See what we’re talking about...
ARTS
TCAN Center For the Arts
14 Summer St., Natick natickarts.org
508-647-0097
A sprawling arts operation hosting performances in a historic firehouse recently transformed into a theater space. The TCAN runs programming year-round, ranging from comedy, to theater, to live music.
Vokes Players
97 State Rd., Wayland vokesplayers.org
508-358-4034
A regionally renowned community theater troupe performing in the more than 100-year-old, 100seat Vokes Theater.
Hopkinton Center for the Arts
98 Hayden Rowe St., Hopkinton hopartscenter.com
508-435-9222
A regional theater hosting theater, music and dance productions throughout the year including a summer jazz series and a visual art exhibitions all year.
Arts Wayland
57 Andrew Ave., Wayland Artswayland.com
774-421-9211
An arts co-op billing itself as a cafe-style co-working space for artists and people who appreciate art. The spot also hosts low-cost music performances, open-mic nights, classes and galleries.
Amazing Things
Arts Center
160 Hollis St., Framingham atac160.org
508-405-2787
A nonprofit arts center hosting three different visual arts galleries packed with the work of local artists. ATAC also hosts wildly popular performances of everything from comedy to music.
OPEN MIC & COMEDY SHOWS
Comedy Mique
Amazing Things Art Center 160 Hollis Street, Framingham Atac160.org
508-405-2787
Grab friends for laughs every 3rd Thursday night, to watch all skill-level entertainers.A blast!
LIVE MUSIC
Start Line Brewing
151R Hayden Rowe Street, Hopkinton startlinebrewing.com
508-258-7200
Live Music every Thursday night from 7-9pm. Perfect spot to sample local favoirte brews, while enjoying the music and seasonal patio dining.
Morse Tavern
85 E Central St, Natick 508-655-7878 morsetavern.com
Very nice place to enjoy some food and drinks. They have live bands to enjoy while you're enjoying your drinks &eats too! The food is fabulous! The staff is fantastic! Friendly service, always with a smile! Definitely try it.....you'll definitely love it!
SkyBokx 109
319 Speen St., Natick skybokx109.com
508-903-1595
A high-energy sports bar and grill with frequent live rock shows. Visit their site for show dates, as they change frequently!
SLICE!
BYTHE
Chicago has deep dish. New York has thin crust. Sicily has classic thick dough. MetroWest has it all. There are family-owned spots full of lovingly crafted, piping-hot pies brought right to sit-down tables. The region also offers cheap slices ripe for the busy local who needs a grab-and-go lunch. Want to get to know the cosmopolitan 21st-century melting pot of past and present – stop by any one of the pizza parlors we’ve listed below!
Bazels Pizza and Subs
1568 Washington St., Holliston
508-429-5995
A family-owned establishment boasting a massive menu of classic pizzas, gourmet experimentations, calzones and more.
Table Top Pizza
100 Central St., Holliston
508-429-2220
A higher-end destination placing pizzas at the center of a specialized menu of pastas, salads, calzones, burgers and more.
Pizzaville
90 Southville Rd., Southborough
508-281-0555
A pizza spot owned by two childhood friends proud of their Greek heritage and devoted to bringing Mediterranean tastes to Southborough’s food scene. Though they offer pizza parlor staples, they also go steps further, topping some specialties with shrimp and packing others with herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, olives and more.
Rustic Pizza
21 S. Main St., Sherborn
508-655-6900
A small restaurant anchored by its roaring brick ovens and defined by homemade bread and pizza crusts. Chefs are proud of their hand-stretched pizza dough and say they aim to take diners on a tour of Italy through the food on their plates.
Brooklyn New York Pizza
21 W. Central St., Natick
508-655-5355
A classic parlor serving thin-crust New York Style pizza at low prices. The menu has all the staples diners expect when ordering pizza, but further livens things up with whimsically named creations like the “King of New York” and the “Jimmy the Giant” pies.
Blue Square Pizza
30 Main Street, Hopkinton
508-425-0001
A pizza like no other. Unique flavors and unexpected combinations offered in Detroit style, Grandma style and classic New York style pizzas.Phantom Gourmet favorite. Something for everyone.
Gianni’s Pizza and Subs
861 Edgell Rd., Framingham
508-877-7697
A small classic Italian pizza destination serving classic Italian thin crust and Sicilian thick-crust varieties. Lauded by locals and regional critics alike, pay special attention to Gianni’s beloved sauce.
Liberty’s Famous Pizza
1 Nicholas Rd. #61, Framingham
508-877-4400
A thriving combination of the historically adored Liberty Pizza in Natick and Famous Pizza in Framingham. These guys love their community history but refuse to rest on their laurels. Regulars love Liberty’s locally sourced chicken among other things.
Family Style Pizza
41 Waverly St., Framingham
508-370-7275
A spot as focused on its food as it is devoted to the concept of place-making. Stop in with the whole family for classic thin-crust pizza, then stay in a dining room run by owners who believe pizza should be enjoyed like an entrée, rather than like fast food.
Wayland Pizza House
336 Boston Post Rd., Wayland 508-358-7316
A family-oriented classic downtown pizza shop serving cheap yet highquality slices. Need gluten-free crust, they have it!
CJ’s Gourmet Pizza & Grill
29 Hudson Rd., Sudbury
978-443-3000
Authentic, delicious pizza, gyros and more. Staff is super friendly and accommodating. Beer and wine available.They also offer a reward program – with every 100 points, you get $10-off reward.
Fay School Farmers’ Market
23 Middle Rd., Southborough, MA farmersmarket.fayschool.org
10 am-1 pm on Thursdays, May-October
Wayland Winter Farmers’ Market
397 Boston Post Rd., Wayland www.facebook.com/Wayland-WinterFarmers-Market-161090303930270
10 am-2 pm on Saturdays, January-May
Ashland Farmers’ Market
125 Front St., Ashland www.ashlandfarmersmarket.org
9 am-1 pm on Saturdays, June-September
Natick Farmers’ Market
Common Street, Natick www.natickcenter.org/ natick-farmers-market
9 am-1 pm on Saturdays, year round
Local farmers gather to sell their food, and the cultural center of Natick celebrates arts. Don’t forget that parking is free on the weekends!
Hopkinton Farmers’ Market
Town Common, Hopkinton hopkintonfarmersmarket.com
1-5 pm on Sundays, June-October
farm fresh
Shopping locally means supporting local businesses. Local farms throughout the area depend on residents to sustain their way of life. Farmers are dedicated to creating quality products and work hard to get them in the hands of local consumers. There are a myriad of reasons to buy local products; typically they taste better and have more nutrients. Shopping locally for food also means that you’re supporting a local family, preserving open space by supporting farming, and you’re engaging in a time-honored connection between eater and grower.
LOCAL TIP
Not to be missed is the Outpost Farm in Holliston! You’d be surprised what you can find there, from breakfast egg sandwiches to turkey sandwiches at lunchtime to BBQ or turkey pot pie for dinner, along with a peach pie for dessert.
Don’t forget to pick up one of their beautiful and unique flower bouquets all summer long! - Nancy G.
A local favorite for farm fresh food is Outpost Farm in Holliston. This family-run farm works to deliver fresh produce and turkeys to locals; their prepared foods are packed full of flavor – a favorite is their “Day After Thanksgiving Sandwich,” which highlights the farm’s products. Arcadian Farms is also in Holliston, and their produce is some of the best in the area. They partner with other local farmers and bakers to carry local eggs, dairy, honey, syrup, jams, relishes, and baked goods. Tangerini’s Spring Street Farm in Millis; they offer a CSA, pick-your-own produce and have a farm stand packed with seasonal produce. They offer pick-ups and home delivery for meat, eggs, produce and freshly prepared foods.
Eastleigh Farm in Framingham is a working dairy farm. Open daily for visits and wagon rides, their ice cream is simply the best! Natick Organic Community Farm is a nonprofit, working to grow produce and meats the way that people in the region did for centuries. They offer a CSA program, as well as a farm stand and seasonal programs for families.
B E STPLA CESTO
YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO DRIVE TO BOSTON FOR THE FINEST DINING MASSACHUSETTS HAS TO OFFER. Startups and community mainstays alike have recently been drawing critics on road trips down the Mass Pike, while delighting local residents with great food close to home.
Food is at the center of local culture and the broader social scenes of area towns. As driven locals young and old build these communities towards new futures, these destinations offer a collective portrait of MetroWest in plates, cutlery and tablecloths...
FOR WAKING UP
C'EST LA VIE
30 Main St., Northborough
Truly French! A funky, eclectic gem that offers delicious French dishes for breakfast and lunch. Duck, crepes, brie, oh my! A must try.
MAURO’S VILLAGE CAFE
2 Main St., Southborough 508-485-8730
A longtime local staple serving classic comfort food including homemade pies, juicy steaks, and a generally diverse breakfast menu.
LOCAL TIP
Favorite breakfast?
Does the Donut Stand count? Because I can eat there for ANY meal! -Cori G.
J & M DINER
50 Worcester Road, Framingham For 25 years, an amazing breakfast experience. Like going back in time. Excellent food, unique options, fun and eclectic décor and super friendly staff.
THE FARMER'S DAUGHTER
534F Boston Post Road, Sudbury 978-261-5832
Known for an amazing brunch and unique breakfast dishes. Make sure you get there early, as there do not take reservations.
AROUND THE WORLD
“Favorite spot... Sitting outside at Juniper (Wellesley) eating my
SOUL OF INDIA
103 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury ▸ 978-261-5790
A beautifully decorated destination for authentic, thoughtfully crafted Indian cuisine. Members of Boston’s DaVinci restaurant group first founded Soul of India and continue to hold the spot to the high standards of its kin.
PHO DAKAO
101 Concord St., Framingham 508-872-2211
A Vietnamese, French fusion restaurant. Diners love the fresh meats and vegetables at Dakao. Take a look, too, at the expansive drink menu of bubble tea, limeade, wine, sake, and beer.
SAMBA STEAK AND SUSHI
1138 Worcester Rd., Framingham 508-628-0288
An authentic spot proudly serving sushi and Asian style steaks in a traditionally decorated setting. Widely acclaimed, Samba proudly sees itself as a bridge between Western and Eastern cuisine.
KOUS KOUS
40 Hollis St., Framingham 508-875-1333
This take-out restaurant is a middle eastern gem! Moroccan food in its truest authenticity! Delicious options, freshly made at very reasonable prices.
DATE NIGHT
THE CELLAR BAR & GRILLE
3669 W. Main St., Northborough ▸ 508-393-8134
A unexpected gem tucked behind a strip mall. Elegant, inviting with a touch of intimacy. Wonderful food, great service. Ideal for date night or out with friends.
BULLFINCH’S RESTAURANT AND CATERING
730 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury ▸ 978-443-4094
A high-end restaurant serving what feels like every kind of meat under the sun between multicultural brunch and dinner menus. Don’t miss live music every weekend!
BUTTERCUP
13 W. Central St., Natick ▸ 508-545-1506
Farm to table delight, with a twist of Southern cooking. Cute restaurant, tasty food. A must try. Craft cocktails are noteworthy.
COACH GRILL
55 Boston Post Rd., Wayland ▸ 508-358-5900
Fancy fine dining tailored to all interests and tastes.
The grill offers a variety of seafood, pork and steaks alongside a wide array of wines.
LOCAL TIP
Bar Athena in Holliston: “Excellent restaurant. The menu is ever-changing and amazing, the ingredients are always very fresh, and the staff is exceptional. One of my favorite restaurants, near or far!” - Kate M.
TACO TUESDAY
AZTEC RESTAURANT
2 Waverly Street, Framingham ▸ 508-820-2523
Offers authentic Mexican tacos with handmade tortillas. Full Mexican menu that can be enjoyed in a colorful environment that includes outdoor seating.
HOLA RESTAURANT AND TEQUILA BAR
154 Turnpike Rd., Southborough ▸ 508-460-2058
The dishes are consistently of high quality. Simple, authentic Mexican dishes and the spicy Margarita with sliced jalapenos is like nothing else!
BAHA RESTAURANT
2 Mill St., Natick ▸ 508-655-2242
A small spot specializing in Mexican street tacos. Beyond that, though, they offer fajitas, burritos and more alongside a kids’ menu.
LOCAL TIP
FAMILY NIGHT
“Our favorite local restaurant is Red Rock Grill & Bar in Upton. They have an eclectic menu, delicious cocktails, and outdoor seating with a beach volleyball court!”
- Laura and Adam K.
OWEN O’LEARY’S RESTAURANT AND BREW PUB
50 Turnpike Rd., Southborough ▸ 508-481-1714
An Irish pub with a massive menu including everything from burgers, to soup, to pizza, to sandwiches, tacos and, of course, plenty of drinks for the adults.
THE DUDLEY CHATEAU
20 Crest Rd., Wayland ▸ 508-655-0010
A favorite neighborhood hangout, situated on Dudley Pond in Cochituate. Fantastic pub grub with healthy alternatives. Perfect to gather for food, sports and spirits. Watch your favorite teams or play a game of darts. For the perfect casual night.
LONGFELLOW’S WAYSIDE INN
72 Wayside Inn Rd., Sudbury ▸ 978-443-1776
A beloved family-oriented dining hall at the historic Wayside Inn. Steeped in 300 years of history, the Inn offers typical American cuisine alongside a reasonably priced kids’ menu.
BJ'S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE
124 Worcester Rd, Framingham ▸ 774-427-0020
Lively environment. Menu has something for everyone, even picky eaters. Lots of options for drinks and desserts. Casual dining, lots of TVs , Must try the Pizookie dessert!
LOCAL TIP
“Bourbon’s Restaurant –food and drinks are off the wall!” - Anthony A.
LADIES’ NIGHT
BELLA COSTA RISTORANTE
147 Cochituate Rd., Framingham ▸ 508-626-1726
An award-winning, family-run restaurant known for its pasta and fish combinations. Portions are large, and ingredients are always fresh.
ERICA’S RISTORANTE
78 Front St., Ashland ▸ 508-881-1982
A restaurant boasting a self-described “eclectic” menu with lots of fish, pasta, and inventive appetizers like baked goat cheese with pears and figs.
CENTRAL PUBLIC HOUSE
42 Main St., Hopkinton ▸ 508-625-2570
A place for beautifully plated American rooted cuisine inspired by the tastes and climate of Boston’s Seaport District restaurants. They’re known for burgers, but don’t skip out on house-made hummus or jambalaya.
SPORTS BARS AND PUBS
BOURBON’S KITCHEN AND COCKTAILS
47 Beacon St., Framingham ▸ 508-861-7997
Casual, popular spot featuring craft cocktails and a clever pub menu that includes shareable plates. Great atmosphere. Ask for desserts, because they don’t show them on the menu.
THE 4’S SPORTS PUB
666 Waverly St., Framingham ▸ 508-879-1979
A no-nonsense pub serving classic American food. Billing itself as one of Framingham’s original pubs, it’s a community favorite drawing customers across generations. Check out Friday and Saturday Live Bands!
ASHLAND ALE HOUSE
23 Pond St., Ashland ▸ 508-861-7780
Classic pub plates served in a comfortable, sizable space featuring a large bar with beers on tap. Fun trivia on Tuesday nights!
&
Kids of all ages can have fun indoors and out in the MetroWest. For birthdays, rainy days, or a day of family fun, check out these great local spots to put a smile on your little ones’ faces.
Hopkinton Center for the Arts
98 Hayden Rowe St. #2508, Hopkinton
www.hopartscenter.org
A beautiful space hosting art, music and theater classes. This is a treasure in the community.
Goldfish Swim
Marlboro, Milford and Needham www.goldfishswimschool.com
This is a local favorite for year-round swimming lessons. They also host fun birthday parties and summer kickoffs
Dave & Busters
Loring Arena – Ice Skating 165 Fountain St., Framingham www.framinghamma.gov/678/ Loring-Arena
Indoor skating for all!
1235 Worcester Street, Natick Arcade fun for all ages. Lots of food options, even allergy friendly. Great birthdays party option.
Boston Paintball, 120 Pond St., Ashland bostonpaintball.com/ashland
Celebrating a birthday? Kids outgrown a lot of the old options? Boston Paintball offers two versions of the game, and both are enormous amounts of fun, pre-teen and beyond!
Canvas N Cup
6 W. Main Street, Westborough canvasncup.com
Let the creativity release. Instructor-led painting classes for kids and adults. Paint on canvas or ceramic figurines. Wonderful for birthday parties, after-school programs and summer camps. No experience nor talent needed!
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
189 Mechanic St., Bellingham www.urbanairtrampolinepark.com/locations/ massachusetts/bellingham
An indoor trampoline center, this is a wonderful place to burn off some energy. Throughout the week, they host open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball and parties.
Launch Trampoline Park
2 California Ave., Framingham launchtrampolinepark.com/framingham
An indoor trampoline adventure spot that offers lots of fun for all ages. From launch pads, laser tag, indoor playground to slack lines and arcades. This is a great place for kids to have a blast.
Garden in the Woods 180 Hemenway Rd., in Framingham www.nativeplanttrust.org/visit/garden-woods/ Garden in the Woods is a 45 acres woodland botanical garden. In a garden visitors often describe as magical, you’ll find beauty that changes with the seasons, a variety of habitats, and a plant collection that showcases New England native plants with complementary specimens from across the country.
Golf on the Village Green Route 9 Westbound, Natick www.gamesandgolf.com/ golfhome.html
For over 44 years, Golf on the Village Green has been a true reminder of the Freedom Trail and carries an educational and patriotic theme. The handcrafted, miniature historical buildings, life-size statues and other colonial replicas make this a unique miniature golf experience.
Jam Time
251 W. Central St., Natick www.jamtime.com/
Jam Time is Metro West’s premiere play space catering to little ones 3 months to 6 years old. Jam Time offers a huge indoor playground, classes, and parties!
HELLO FROM THE
MENAPACE FAMILY
Meet Kim and Dave and their two children, Logan (4) and Brooke (1) of Holliston. Dave grew up in Holliston after moving here when he was 10 years old. After college, Kim and Dave met while living in Boston in their 20s. They moved to Southern California for a couple of years for Dave’s work, and upon returning to Massachusetts in 2016, decided that buying a house was a smarter decision than moving back into the city, due to rising rents and the lack of dog-friendly apartments. They didn’t just have any dog, they had a 130 lbs Great Dane named Sunny. They quickly decided to settle back into Dave’s hometown of Holliston, as it was a great town to raise a family.
In Holliston, one of our favorite weekend activities is heading to Coffee Haven for breakfast with the kids and then walking or riding on the rail trail right next to it. If we’re heading to the rail trail later in the day, we’ll treat ourselves to ice cream at the recently opened TC Scoops . Not far from the rail trail is Goodwill Park , our favorite local playground in downtown Holliston that also hosts tennis courts and a sports field.
Other fun spots for breakfast in nearby Milford are Basic Batch Donuts and B.Food, an unassuming authentic French bakery located inside Hickey’s Liquor store. We had never realized the French bakery was even there until a friend in town informed us, and now we can’t get enough of their almond croissants. And as for Basic Batch Donuts, their donuts are each a work of art and rival those of the famous PV Donuts in Providence in both creativity and flavor.
For dinner, one of our go-to spots is OutPost Farm in Holliston where we get homemade smoked BBQ dinners in the summer and classic Thanksgiving turkey dinners in the fall and winter. They are the go-to spot in the area to get your fresh Thanksgiving Turkey and holiday pies. We love getting our seasonal fall decor of Pumpkins and Chrysanthemums there as well. For a sit-down dinner, we’ll go to Mazi in Ashland as they have a very kidfriendly atmosphere, great menu and craft drinks.
At the end of our street in Holliston is the Waushakum Railroad , a club to promote an interest in and knowledge of steam locomotion trains. In September, the club offers days for the public to come visit and ride on their trains which they note on their website. Our son loves it so much that he often asks us to go on bike rides or walks there to see if they’re working on the trains and if we can catch a ride on them in the off-season.
Photo Credit Alex Gordias Photography
pet pet FOR owners
Dog Parks & Rescue Leagues
MetroWest is a great place for man’s best friend. There are loads of places to play, explore and have fun. While visiting these places, please note that each town and park often has its own rules regarding leash laws, and that it is always important to curb your dog. These places are wonderful spaces that welcome dogs, and locals know that, in any season, it is great to take your pup outside to have some fun.
Ashland State Park
162 W. Union St., Ashland
Lots of terrain to explore here. Dogs are welcome on the trails, as long as they’re leashed. This is a great spot to check out fall foliage! The 3.2-mile trail loop has lots of traffic and easy parking. Open April to October, this is a fun and easy trail for the less adventurous hiker.
Callahan State Park
1048 Edmands Rd., Framingham
Spanning nearly 1,000 acres, this is a huge parcel of conservation land. There’s a beach, woods with well-marked trails, open fields and a dog park. The dog park is one of the few in the area with a beach, and is favored by people throughout the area during the summer. Be sure to bring a towel for your pup! Parking is free but can fill up quickly in the height of the season.
LOCAL TIP
"When not giving golf lessons or coordinating outings at Charter Oak Country Club, I love to spend my off days discovering new hiking spots with my 3-anda-half-year-old Vizsla, Henry. One of Henry and I's favorite places to hike is Callahan State Park, over 800 acres of gorgeous, hilly terrain with lots of friendly dogs and their owners." - Jennifer R.
Hopkinton State Park
164 Cedar St., Hopkinton
This park includes loads of fun for everyone; with over 1,500 acres of forest to explore, beaches and swimming, this is a wonderful resource. Dogs are allowed on leash, and only on the beach between September 16 and April 30. There are picnic areas, restrooms, and even a boathouse. Parking is $8 May-October and occasionally reaches capacity. This is a true local gem, and is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, who are present throughout the park.
Medway Dog Park
298 Village St., Medway
This is a fenced-in park, where dogs can roam free. There are plenty of dog owners here, ready to socialize and talk with other dog lovers. The park is run by the Medway Parks and Recreation Department, who work to maintain the ample benches, toys and cleaning supplies available to the public.
Tufts Farm Field
200 Westboro Rd., Westborough/Grafton Line
A great place, with acres of open fields to walk on leash, or wind through the woods. This is a scenic spot, and a wonderful place to view a breathtaking sunset. A fenced-in dog area allows for off-leash play, but all dogs in this area must be licensed by their town and with Tufts University for a nominal fee.
Wenakeening
Woods
Summer Street
(across from Fatima Shrine), Holliston
This 2-mile long hike is quiet and serene. The 100 acres of woods were gifted to the Upper Charles Conservation Corp, and there is a network of footpaths that are fun to explore. Trails are easy to navigate, although poison ivy can be found in the height of the season – be sure to keep your pup leashed and on the trail to avoid any trouble! The woods and boardwalks are truly beautiful.
Heard Farm Conservation Area
Pelham Island Road, Wayland Great off-leash walking for dogs. Make sure leash is on in the parking lot.
Rescue Leagues & Adoption Centers
MetroWest Humane Society
Ashland, MA
Has lots of cats and kittens, and work to help match these felines with the right companions.
BayPath Humane Society
Hopkinton, MA
Has both dogs and cats; their unique approach to creating personal care through their shelter helps animals easily transition to their new families.
Brown Dog Coalition
Hopkinton, MA
A foster-based animal rescue where you can adopt a rescued dog, puppy, cat or kitten.
Buddy Dog
Sudbury, MA
Known throughout the region for helping to rescue “last chance” dogs from across the country, and giving them a second chance.
Save a Dog
Sudbury, MA
Humane society that focuses on abandoned dog re-homing. Dogs come from all over the country, predominantly form high-volume shelters in the rural South.
- Maria C.
LOCAL TIP
Love Natick Mall! Large variety of stores for all ages. Some of my favorites are Pacsun, Urban, American Eagle and Garage. Lots of options at the food court as well! - Sage E.
THERAPY retail retail
There is a plethora of shopping destinations in and around the MetroWest. From malls to small specialty boutiques, there is something fun for all who shop.
Malls
and Shopping Plazas
NATICK MALL, NATICK
This is one of the largest indoor malls in the state, with everything from JCPenney and Abercrombie, to Tiffany’s and Wegmans. This is the spot to visit for some serious retail therapy.
SHOPPER’S WORLD, FRAMINGHAM
Dating back to the 1950s, this strip mall hosts big stores like DSW, Kohl’s, PetSmart and Best Buy. There’s nothing you can’t find in this all-encompassing strip on Route 9.
SUDBURY CROSSING, SUDBURY
From Rite Aid to TJ Maxx or Sleepy’s, this spot has plenty of chain stores to choose from – get there early, as there is often traffic after work!
WAYLAND TOWN CENTER, WAYLAND
A widespread retail center, there are loads of newer stores mixed in, offering plenty of shopping options for locals. It’s easier to drive from one store to the next than trying to walk it.
Antiques
AVENUE C DESIGN, FRAMINGHAM
Wonderful, unique items at Eastleigh Farm. A great place to find a special gift or something special for your home.
HEAVEN ON EARTH ANTIQUES & DESIGN, SHERBORN
A boutique shop in Sherborn Center features art, pottery, jewelry, furniture, lamps and lighting, small rugs and runners, porcelain, silver, vintage kitchen and bar ware, linens, mirrors and seasonal decorative items.
HOLLISTON ANTIQUES, HOLLISTON
This is a store jam-packed with treasures! A fun place to poke around.
GRACEFULLY RESTORED, 76 MAIN ST., HOPKINTON
This home décor store is filled with a vast array of shabby chic, farmhouse rustic and French-country items for your home.
LOCAL TIP
“For home decor, check out Avenue C in Framingham and Laurel Grove in Sudbury. For delicious food, go to Bourbon’s in Framingham or 29 Rustic in Sudbury. For nice hangout spots, go to Jack’s Abby or Exhibit A in Framingham and Lookout Farm in Natick.” - Alison G.
Destinations
AESOP’S FABLE, HOLLISTON
A bookstore with fun gifts and friendly staff.
BUTTERFLY TREE BOUTIQUE,MEDFIELD
A one-stop shop for jewelry, clothing, gifts, and home décor! Featuring merchandise from around the world & locally. Committed to bringing products that are fair trade, eco-friendly, and made in the USA.
WORLD MARKET, FRAMINGHAM
A fun and interesting place to shop. A bit of this and that from all over the world. From home decor, to spices, tea sets, to interesting international foods and quirky gifts. A truly fun and unique destination.
THE GRAPEVINE, HOLLISTON
Gifts, fashion accessories, bath and body products, stationery, educational to gourmet foods, home decor and so much more.
SWOON
A beautiful boutique for with distinguishing clothing, From casual to fun, something for everyone. The staff makes shopping there a delightful experience. Absolutely check it out. We are sure you'll find something you will love.
SWOON
GET THE
COOOOP P S SC
FAVORITE ICE CREAM SPOTS
LOCAL
TIP
“Mad Willies Framingham is a great small local ice cream shop. It definitely a town local favorite. The owner is always there, remembers you. Portions and selections are great.”
- Christina F.
compares to a heaping scoop of ice cream in terms of immediate joy.
Luckily, the region is packed with glorious creameries, frozen yogurt spots and even a farmstand, all offering their takes on ice cream classics and cerebral creations.
There’s family-run spots and downtown staples, the fruit of one man’s labor to preserve local history and familiar names of national and regional chains. Dairy free, or watching fat or sugar intake? Plenty of shops don’t want to leave you out either and have special offerings to show for it.
We read the reviews and talked to community members so you don’t have to. Here are some of the best ice cream spots in MetroWest...
Mad Willies
963 Worcester Rd., Framingham madwillies.com
508-370-3833
A fun spot offering extreme variety in its freezers. There’s all the ice cream staples, plus frozen yogurt, and fat-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free options.
Eastleigh Farm
1062 Edmands Rd., Framingham eastleighfarm.wixsite.com eastleighfarmcow@gmail.com
A spot serving as the public facade for a sprawling historic farm run by an owner committed to preserving MetroWest’s agricultural history. Enjoy your ice cream while watching cows graze in nearby fields.
Hop-Yo 36 Main St., Hopkinton Hop-yo.com
508-625-2561
A self-serve frozen yogurt shop full of fun luau decor. Bonus, it’s all run by a local family that moved to Hopkinton in 2013 and immediately put down local roots opening their own small business.
Park Street Ice Cream Shoppe 14 Park St., Natick parkstreeticecream.com
508-655-8113
A downtown shop celebrating its 30th year serving classic and unique flavors alike. Catch inventive tastes like Pumpkin Pie, Orange Pineapple, and Ginger flavors!
Ben & Jerry’s
1265 Worcester St., Natick benjerry.com
508-650-5400
A regional classic serving the world-renowned flavors many are delightfully familiar with. Easily accessible, it’s a convenient treat for those shopping at the nearby Natick Mall.
Cold Stone Creamery
154 Turnpike Rd., Southborough coldstonecreamery.com
508-485-1150
A local branch of the beloved chain that proves ice cream can come with a bit of theater. Order a sundae, and see scoopers mix your ice cream with plenty of toppings right on their signature refrigerated steel countertops.
The Spoonery
1 Lumber St., Hopkinton thespoondiners.com
774-803-7125
The ice cream arm of the locally beloved restaurant “The Spoon.” Reputation aside, though, these guys make great ice cream that could stand on its own if need be. Take a special look at amazing creations “Graham Central Station” and “Salted Caramel Truffle.”
Park Street Ice Cream and Cafe, Natick
OUTDOORS GREAT TH E
on the water
There are plenty of ways to explore the MetroWest by the water. There are rivers, ponds and lakes sprinkled throughout the area, and shops offering up boat, kayak, canoe and paddle-board rentals. When the weather cooperates, take a chance, and explore a new sport!
Boston Boat Rentals is located in Cochituate State Park and Hopkinton State Park. They offer lessons, camps and rentals for families to have fun out on the water. Eastern Mountain Sports has a kayak school at Hopkinton State Park, and Charles River Canoe and Kayak in Newton has a variety of trips and rental packages to choose from.
Families who own their own boats can explore nature and get to know the area from launches across the MetroWest. White Hall Boat Launch in Hopkinton, Ashland State Park Boat Launch and Farm Pond Boat Launch in Framingham are all easy and accessible. Additionally, Pleasure Point Boat Launch in Holliston and Rose Donahue Boat Launch in Framingham can be fun for weekend exploring; Stoddard Park Cartop Boat Launch in Holliston and Wayland Town Ramp are best left to kayakers. These spots are wonderful to explore in the fall, where locals know the spectacular foliage reflects on the bluest of waters.
Paddling down the Sudbury River can be difficult for beginners. Check out sites like paddling.com or sudbury-assabet-concord.org to familiarize yourself with the river and its path before your first adventure out.
SHERMANS BRIDGE, SUDBURY RIVER
run, walk, swim, or bike
Marathons, Triathlons and More
Here is a great way to be part of the community, while getting a good work out. Various runs that are themed or for amazing causes are everywhere in MetroWest. So enjoy a walk, run and more in these seasonal, fun races. What better way is there to see what each town has to offer than on foot?
THE BOSTON MARATHON
Hopkinton, April
Starts in Hopkinton and winds its way towards Boston. Runners from around the world try to tackle this difficult course, and many residents find a fun place to watch the race. To learn more about this world-renowned competition and where to watch, visit www.baa.org/races/boston-marathon/watch.
CHRISTA MCAULIFFE
CHARTER SCHOOL 5K
Framingham, May › 5K
Join the community in raising money during this fun event to benefit one of Framingham’s best charter schools.
THE SHARON TIMLIN EVENT
– A RACE TO CURE ALS
Hopkinton, June › 5K, 1 Mile
Help us strike out ALS! Join us for lots of fun activities for the whole family, including a 5K Road Race, a Kids’ Fun Color Run, Family Fun Day, live music, food, silent auction, and awesome raffles! All proceeds benefit The Angel Fund, an independent, nonprofit charity, benefiting ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) research at UMass Medical School.
The Boston Marathon is always held on Patriot’s Day, the third Monday in April.
METROWEST K9 5K
Hopkinton, June › 5K
Run, walk, or jog with your dog! Join in the fun with your friends, coworkers, kids, family and bring along your furry friends! This race benefits the MVMA Charities, Inc, an organization who serves communities in Massachusetts by funding the needs of stray animals, veterinary care, and emergency and disaster preparedness and response.
DOVER SHERBORN BOOSTERS TRIATHLON
Dover, September › Triathlon
The cleanest fresh water, rolling swim – start within 20 miles of downtown Boston. A welldesigned, double transition-style course that winds through the scenic roads and farms of Dover and Sherborn and finishes Olympic stadium style at Dover-Sherborn High School. A community-organized, volunteer-driven event developed to benefit the DoverSherborn Boosters – a nonprofit focused on providing quality athletic experiences for our children while promoting health and exercise.
NEW ENGLAND SEASON OPENER
TRIATHLON AND DUATHLON
Hopkinton, September › Triathlon
The NE Season Opener at Hopkinton State Park is the best kickoff race to the season. Your choice: Duathlon or Triathlon! The State Park is a beautiful location with tree-lined park roads and a picturesque reservoir. The course travels through historic Southborough, Ashland and Hopkinton.
TITLE 9 TRIATHLON
Hopkinton, September › Triathlon
The premier Northeast Region Women Only Triathlon! Max Performance brings you an amazing event, year after year, with a focus on small race size (we cap the race at 650), super fun atmosphere, and attention to detail that you will absolutely love!
SOUTHBOROUGH GOBBLE WOBBLE
Southborough, November › 5K
The Friends of Southborough Recreation Department is proud to bring you the Annual Gobble Wobble 5K Road Race, 2 Mile Family Walk and Kids Fun Run on Thanksgiving morning. This is an event to help promote and support community health, togetherness, and spirit through providing recreational activities, facilities, and events.
RUN FOR SHIFSTRONG
Southborough, November › 5K, Fun Rum Long time Southborough resident Brian Shifrin has been courageously battling ALS along his wife and two children for the past two years. Brian’s condition has rapidly progressed, and he now needs 24-hour medical care. All proceeds from this event will go directly to Brian and his family.
Let’s continue to rally around the Shifrins and show them our support!
play “a round”
Golf
Spring, summer or fall, there’s plenty of places across MetroWest to take the family or go it alone on the golf course. Some come steeped in history, boasting multiple generations of family ownership or the footprints of countless global golf stars. Others come especially manicured, recently revitalized by renovation projects. A few cater towards seasoned golfers looking for a challenge, but still more offer options for those just starting out or bringing the kids along to experience a new sport.
We’ve gathered it all in one place for you...
SASSAMON TRACE GOLF COURSE
233 S. Main St., Natick sassamontrace.com
508-655-1330
A nine-hole course incorporating large greens and broad natural features to create holes geared toward beginner golfers that still also offer uniqueness for experts.
PINECREST GOLF CLUB
212 Prentice St., Holliston pinecrestgolfclub.org
774-233-0579
A freshly renovated spot with a variety of leagues for men, women, corporate groups and seniors. There’s even a social league focused on the lighter side of golf.
FRAMINGHAM COUNTRY CLUB
16 Gates St., Framingham framinghamcc.com
508-872-9790
A family-friendly country club with 18 expansive holes that recently underwent comprehensive renovation. Have a young golfer? The Framingham Country Club is proud of its rapidly growing and already renowned junior golf program.
HOPKINTON COUNTRY CLUB
204 Saddle Hill Rd., Hopkinton hopkintoncc.com
508-435-4630
A full country club with a sprawling 18-hole golf course. Golf amenities also include a driving range as well as practice greens and bunkers.
WAYLAND COUNTRY CLUB
121 Old Sudbury Rd., Wayland wayland-country-club.com
508-358-4775
A well-kept course nestled in roughly a thousand acres of pristine conservation land.
SANDY BURR COUNTRY CLUB
103 Cochichuate Rd., Wayland sandyburr.com
508-358-7211
A regionally renowned, challenging golf course with a history of hosting championship events and outings for amateur golfers alike.
LOCAL TIP
Must check out Restore (Habitat for Humanity) in Ashland. A must go to, for new homeowners!
- Brittany B.
SOUTHBOROUGH GOLF CLUB
32 Cordaville Rd., Southborough southboroughgolfclub.com
508-460-0946
A historic golf course rooted in an ideology of accessibility that it continues by offering cheap prices and a variety of discount and loyalty programs.
A HISTORIC SPOT:
One of the oldest courses in the region, the Southborough Golf Club says it does not overcharge for its prestige, instead, keeping catering towards the every-man as it has throughout its nearly 150-year history.
Founded in the late 1890s by George Peabody Gardner of the elite local Gardner family, the course charged low prices from the get-go and even allowed Sunday play, a rarity at the time.
“Its modest beginnings and history,” a statement on the club site reads, “when G.P Gardner could have afforded to join or create a fully private country club, speaks to his philanthropy and modest spirit that we should emulate.”
LEO J. MARTIN MEMORIAL GOLF COURSE
190 Park Rd.,Weston mass.gov/locations/leo-j-martin-memorial-golf-course
781-894-4903
One of two state-owned golf courses boasting scenic views on walks between holes. A bonus? During the winter months, the property wholly converts into a cross-country skiing track.
parks & playgrounds
There’s no shortage of fun places to explore with families, and one of the things that locals love is exploring playgrounds throughout the area. If you decide to visit a playground, don’t forget to pack a snack and some sunblock! Whatever your children’s ages or interest, there are plenty of fun places to visit.
Southborough’s Fayville Playground is great for kids under 10; there are slides, swings and musical instruments built into the equipment. A shaded picnic area and ball field make this a fun place to spend the afternoon.
EMC Park in Hopkinton is favored by families with younger children, because it is fenced in, and it is easy to monitor small children. Goodwill Park in Holliston has unusual structures, and is also great for families with small children. There are bikes and vehicles here to explore and play with. For some shade and a variety of swings and slides, families love KidSpot playground in Ashland.
One of the most scenic playgrounds in the MetroWest is Sherborn Playground, where wooden structures have a mix of shade and sun, and there is a great skate park and basketball court for older kids. Cushing Memorial Park Framingham has a fun structure for little ones to enjoy, as well as open parks and trails for older kids and pups to explore. It can get busy when the weather is nice during the summer! Reardon Park in Framingham has an older playground, but is still a favorite for local kids to gather. For a newer and more expansive playground, visit Butterworth Park where there are plenty of things to swing, jump and climb on.
which is run by the Natick Recreation Department. It was formerly two different schools, and is now home to two playgrounds, two sports fields, a walking track and basketball court. Hannah Williams Playground in Wayland is scenic and cute, and has a small playground that local families enjoy. Alpine Field in Wayland has a small and colorful playground that young children enjoy, but Haskell Field and Smile Park in Sudbury offers up lots more to explore and appreciate for older kids, who enjoy the rock walls and climbing. Smile Park is an amazing enclosed play park for toddler to young kids alike. Offers a covered area and various climbing fixtures. Also a skate park. Framingham SkatePark on Dudley road,is a blast for skaters and offers a small toddler park as well.
During the summer months, families venture out to local splash pads. Assabet Park in Northborough has a great, fenced-in splash pad, and The Spray Park in Braintree is unquestionably worth the drive. Families also hop in the car and explore Castle in the Trees playground in Littleton, which has a large space for young children, and also a wooden tree-house like playground for older kids.
Whatever your children’s interests or ages, there is a spot for them to have fun in close by!
Both Loker Park and Murphy Field in Natick have ball fields and playgrounds. The true gem in Natick is the Cole Center,
SEASONAL
DELIGHTS
THE REGION IS DOTTED WITH BRICK-AND-MORTAR DESTINATIONS AND NATURAL LANDMARKS. LIKEWISE, THOUGH, METROWEST CULTURE ALSO THRIVES ON THE BACKS OF POP-UP EVENTS THAT COME AND GO WITH THE SEASONS. Connect with your national pride through summertime Flag Day and Fourth of July celebrations. Carve pumpkins, or enjoy a good scare at Halloween events, and even take the kids to see Santa walk their familiar streets in any one of the many Christmastime events in the area.
THERE’S PLENTY TO DO AND SEE. WE’VE GATHERED OUR FAVORITE SEASONAL DELIGHTS HERE...
›› SPRING ‹‹ ›› SUMMER ‹‹
Boston Marathon
Various locations in Hopkinton, Ashland, Natick, Framingham baa.org
Patriots Day (Third Monday of April)
The famous race that’s much more than “just a race.”
Running through much of the MetroWest region, the marathon draws up to a million spectators watching roughly 30,000 athletes complete the grueling trek down suburban streets to the urban concrete canyons of downtown Boston. It’s one of the annual high points of spring festivities for local communities often featuring fantastic mild weather on a day many locals get off work.
MetroWest Earth Week
Various locations, Framingham, Natick
MetroWestEarthWeek.org
Mid April
A decentralized network of celebrations surrounding Earth Day every year on April 22. In Framingham, the long-running Earth Day Festival gathers vendors and advocates to share information, lead demonstrations, and offer activities and crafts for all to enjoy. In Natick, a similar type of event pops up annually on the town common. Elsewhere, civic-minded region residents have an array of options appearing annually ranging from town cleanups to sporadic trail maintenance programs at the area’s many state parks.
Framingham Flag Day Parade
Downtown Framingham
framinghamma.gov
Mid June
An annual tradition for the whole family, the beloved Framingham Flag Day Parade runs a short route through downtown Framingham to honor the veterans who’ve served in the United States military and to celebrate those currently serving. The event is truly one geared to all with almost half the route each year featuring limited flashing lights and few loud noises as part of a sensory-friendly program for residents of all ages with special needs.
Fourth of July Celebrations
Various locations in Natick, Weston
Early July
A collection of parades and events across the region on or around the annual Independence Day holiday. In Weston, catch the pool-themed Family Fun Day at the Memorial Pool on Alphabet Lane. There, a DJ annually plays family-friendly poolside music as aquatic staff lead fun activities for all ages.
In Natick, celebrate the seventh decade of the annual town Fourth of July Parade, featuring floats, local performance groups, and regional parade standards like the Aleppo Shriners car group. Have kids? Stop by a few days before July 4 for the annual Children’s Parade around the Natick Town Common featuring games, music and a concert after the parade itself.
›› FALL ‹‹
Southborough Heritage Day
Various locations in Southborough Columbus Day
A collection of events on Columbus Day Weekend every year. Watch the annual road race, and then stop by the collection of vendors set up on the lawn of the town’s St. Marks School. Don’t miss the annual pumpkin stroll, either, which typically ends up leaving scores of carved jack-o-lanterns along the town common wall.
Hanson’s Haunted Hayride
20 Nixon Rd., Framingham hansonsfarm.50webs.com
Fridays and Saturdays in October
A Halloween-themed spook show on the homey Hanson’s Farm in Framingham. Pick up your pumpkins from the farm patch during the day, visit the farm stand for some more food, then hop on the hayride for thrills and scares galore.
Natick Spooktacular
Various locations in Natick
Late October
A day of Halloween festivities for the whole family.
Various parades of trick-or-treating start at 2 pm and wind through downtown before circling back to the Natick Town Common. Highlights of the event include the “Great Pumpkin Smash,” which has become a local favorite in recent years.
Belkin Family Lookout Farm
89 Pleasant St., S. Natick
One of the oldest continuously working farms in the United States. In addition to our fruit U-pick, Lookout Farm offers farm fresh hard cider and beer. There are lots of kid-friendly activities, including farm animals, playground, mazes and pony rides.
LOCAL TIP
The marinaded steak tips at Superette in Holliston are a must have for any BBQ! - John R
›› WINTER ‹‹
Southborough Santa Day
25 Marlborough Rd., Southborough
Early December
A Christmas spectacular famous for introducing Santa in spectacular fashion. Enjoy family activities, and then see Santa arrive via helicopter on the St. Mark’s lawn.
Framingham Tree Lighting
150 Concord St., Framingham
Early December
A classic tree-lighting ceremony of the city’s annual imported massive spruce tree. The event typically features performances from area art and community groups before Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus use some “holiday magic” to light the tree or all.
Santa’s Ride
Various locations, Wayland
Late December
An annual tour of Wayland sponsored by the Wayland Fire Department. See Santa hitch a ride on vintage trucks and wave to community members over several nights.
Dowse Orchards
98 N. Main St., Sherborn
Early December
Seven varieties of Christmas trees on 15 acres of open space. Roam the evergreens, and pick your favorite Christmas tree. Dowse crew will cut it down for you. Also large assortment of pre-cut trees, decorating materials and flowers. After, warm yourself up by the campfire and chase the chill away with free hot mulled cider.
Jack's Abby in Framingham. It has a really great vibe and relaxed atmosphere. Great place to meet up with friends, family, or co-workers. Their pizza is also super delicious.
- Jerry R.
BREWERIES
MetroWest conforms to that trend of nonconformity, with countless breweries in its downtowns and backroads, pushing the boundaries of modern brewing. All the while, the perfectionists at these spots are also continually perfecting the traditions of classic New England beer.
See the largest barrel fermentation operation in the state. Visit a spot proud of its 400-year-old connection to the namesake of Harvard University. Or sip the fruits of jungles of innovatively grown hops at the greenhouse of one other local destination.
There are some top-notch spots in MetroWest. We’ve compiled them here.
JACK’S ABBY
100 Clinton St., Framingham jacksabby.com ▸ 508-872-5085
LOOKOUT FARM BREWING AND CIDER COMPANY
A classic New England brewery serving beer and wood-fired pizza. Like Springdale Beer Company? These guys are their effective big brothers located just next door.
START LINE BREWING COMPANY
151R Hayden Rowe St., Hopkinton startlinebrewing.com ▸ 508-258-7200
A brewery proud of its community identity and committed to always serving great beer. Growing their own hops just steps away from their brewing operation, Start Line is proud to be one of the few local breweries working with a science of growing called “hydroponics.”
89 Pleasant St., Natick lookoutfarm.com ▸ 508-745-3697
A local brewing company nestled within a larger farm operation. They specialize in hard ciders and other fruit-infused alcoholic drinks.
COLD HARBOR BREWING LLC
66 Otis Street, Westborough coldharbourbrewing.com ▸ 508-329-1790
New location, great Beer, amazing food. People rave about the IPA Jice Freak and Feather Edge. Try the Eggplant Milanese. Parking is tough, so carpool or uber. On site it notes that if you rideshare, they take 20% off your food bill. Bonus!
Tilly and Salvy's in Natick- Locally sourced grocery & deli, garden supplies, craft beer + wine plus gifts & treats!
- Wendy T.
It's a chain but Marylou's definitely has the best coffee! So many good flavors. Minty lou is my go to. -Chelsea B.
HELPING YOU WAKE UP
Need a pick me up before work, or a place to relax on a weekend morning? The MetroWest region is packed with locally owned coffee spots committed to creating community mingled with quality beverages. There’s gentle chatter and an ambient sense of warmth in these coffee houses and early-morning dining rooms of the region. Thus, whether you’re an early weekday riser, or a sleepy weekender relaxing around midday, there’s plenty to enjoy.
B SISTERS CAFE
680 Worcester Rd., Framingham bsisterscafetogo.com
508-424-0014
A comprehensive cafe serving coffee alongside everything from savory crepes to sandwiches. Located immediately off Rt. 9, B Sisters operates under the expressed goal of using local, fresh ingredients to produce classic cafe food and drink sold at affordable prices.
SUDBURY COFFEE WORKS 15 Union Ave., Sudbury sudburycoffeeworks.com 978-440-9752
A neighborhood coffee }shop focused on bringing global flavors of coffee to the table through high quality beans. Aiding the coffee loving ambiance is a two-story red steel coffee roaster around which the entire shop revolves.
RED BARN COFFEE
Various locations, Hopkinton, Southborough, Framingham redbarncoffe.com
508-529-6685
A locally owned chain that recently began licensing franchises across Central Massachusetts. Local cafes boast carefully selected coffee beans for their brews and aim to create warm ambiances in their dining rooms.
LOCAL TIP
COFFEE HAVEN
76 Railroad St., Holliston coffeehavenma.com
508-893-8075
A classic coffee shop nestled in a bookstore. In addition to the coffee, there’s a growing list of gluten-free baked goods as well as creative sandwich creations.
CHARLES RIVER COFFEE HOUSE
57 Eliot St., Natick charlesrivercoffeehouse.com
508-655-3238
A local spot that welcomes guests with intricate and colorful chalkboard murals as menus. They serve coffee and tea staples but are also excited about their signature pesto infused “green eggs and ham.”
NORDSTROM EBAR
1245 Worcester St., Natick
508-655-4800
A small slick coffee bar tucked in the Nordstrom department store at the Natick Mall.
RED BARN PASTRIES
KARMA COFFEE
100 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury stiryoursoul.com
978-443-2073
Sudbury’s signature coffee shop boasts small batch, freshly roasted beans available through a cafe or the shop’s online store.
SAXONVILLE MILLS CAFÉ AND ROASTERY
2 Central St, Framingham saxonvillecafe.com
508-309-3294
A diversified coffee shop & bakery for coffee lovers who are always looking for a new flavors and gastronomic experiences, as well as a good atmosphere where you can enjoy the diversity of Colombian coffee.
BODACIOUS BAGEL
300 Eliot St., Ashland bodaciousbagel.com
508-881-5900
An all-encompassing destination for breakfast, lunch, and your morning coffee needs. Bodacious Bagel serves an array of coffee, tea, and coffee-infused frozen drinks alongside generously packed bagel sandwiches.
Muffin House
n usual &fun
PLACES TREASURED BY LOCALS
“Kuegels Deli Framingham is a great hidden gem in Framingham. They have delicious Challah French Toast. And deli sandwiches are a great seller too. This is now my daughter’s go-to for French toast.” - Joanne F.
THE CENTER FOR ARTS IN NATICK 14 Summer St., Natick › 508-647-0097 A regional community arts organization serving the cities and towns of MetroWest Boston.
GARDEN IN THE WOODS 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham › 508-877-7690
Well-maintained, clean and rich with plants, this reserve is over 45 acres of woodland to explore.
THE LEGO STORE NATICK 1245 Worcester St., Mall Space 2100, Natick › 508-651-2330
It might not be tucked into a storefront on Main Street, but this is a spot that people of all ages love to explore. They sometimes pass out activity sets and always offer some Legos for kids to build inside their store. An incredible selection of Legos.
DUCK SOUP
365 Boston Post Rd., #106, Sudbury › 978-443-3825
Gourmet foods, kitchen items and specialty gifts. A great place to poke around!
MASS FIREARMS
100 Kuniholm Dr., Holliston › 800-308-6212
Great state-of-the art range with superb ventilation. Staff are always cordial and willing to help. Also plenty of options in their armory to borrow so you can try out a firearm before purchasing. People drive from far and wide to shoot at this range.
THE OREGON CLUB
117 Oregon Rd., Ashland › 508-875-9030
A speakeasy from the 1920s, serving up steak, seafood and other delicious items.
STEVE THE BIKE GUY
25 N. Main St., Sherborn › 508-251-9737
Steve is always pleasant and his service extraordinary. He can quickly diagnose a problem and never oversells the solution. This is the best spot around to go for help with your bicycle or to find a new one.
THE VIN BIN SOUTHBORO CAFE
154 Turnpike Rd., Southborough › 508-485-8884
Cafe, wine store and cheese shop all in one!
HOLLISTON SUPERETTE
777 Washington St., Holliston › 508-429-2009
A local, cut-to-order butchery that has been around since 1960.Excellent deli with delicious sandwiches. Free coffee on Fridays are a bonus. This place is a must to check out.
RUSSELL’S GARDEN CENTER
397 Boston Post Rd., Wayland 508-358-2283
Truly a unique place. Family-owned garden center that offers so much for the eyes! From items for your garden to gifts, toys, and seasonal delights, this place is a long-time favorite. People come from near and far to visit the unique shops that offer something for everyone.
LOCAL TIP
“The Oregon Club is this little gem in the middle of nowhere. It is an authentic speakeasy! Their margarita is made from scratch, with no mix.” - Joan M.
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood vendor to use. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring the publication. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the publication!
ACCOUNTANTS - CERTIFIED PUBLIC
Smith, Sullivan & Brown, P.C. (508) 871-7178 ssbcpa.com
BANK
ST. Mary's Credit Union STMarysCU.org
CLOTHING BOUTIQUE
Swoon Central (508) 497-9666 SwoonCentral.com
DENTAL SERVICES
The Dentist At Hopkinton (508) 435-6500 hopdent.com
FLOORING
Creative Carpet (508) 626-9353 creativecpt.com
FRAMING/PRINTING/
ART SUPPLIES
Art & Frame Emporium (508) 366-5650
ArtAndFrameEmporium.com
HAIR CARE FOR MEN
Knockouts Haircuts for Men (508) 405-2829 Knockouts.com
HEALING CENTER
Circles Of Joy (508) 740-8158
CirclesOJ.com
HVAC- HEATING OIL
Falconi Energy (508) 485-0377
FalconiEnergy.com
INSURANCE
Paul M. Phipps Insurance Agency, Inc. (508) 435-6388 phippsinsurance.com
INTERIOR DESIGN
BE Home Interiors (781) 264-4313 behomeinteriors.com
IRRIGATION
Lucidi Irrigation, Inc. (978) 466-5974
LucidiIrrigationInc.com
KIDS EDUCATION/ CODING
Code Ninjas-Wellesley (781) 591-2413 codeninjas.com/ma-wellesley
LANDSCAPE AND HARDSCAPE
Rainforest Landscape Inc (508) 308-0902
RainforestLandscape.net
OPTICIAN
Weston Optical (508) 358-5330
WestonOptical.com
PAINT-WALLPAPER-WINDOW TREATMENTS
Debsan The Decorating Store (508) 653-1360 25 Main Street Natick, MA 01760 www.debsan.net
PAINTING SERVICE
Excellence Painting (475) 204-7287 excellencepaintingma.com/
PLUMBING/HEATING & COOLING/HVAC
AllPoints HVAC (508) 459-6880
AllPointsHvac.com
RENOVATIONS / REMODELING
Carto Construction (617) 840-9002
RESTAURANT- BREAKFAST
J & M Diner Inc. (508) 875-7811 JMdiner.com
SEPTIC SERVICES
Scott Septic (508) 435-4168
scottseptic.com
SPIRITUAL ADVISORPSYCHIC MEDIUM
Golden Gate Consulting (508) 361-6188
GoldenGateConsult.com
TILE & DESIGN
Best Tile (508) 842-0178
BestTile.com
TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE
Ron's Tire & Service (508) 872-2266
RonsTireAndService.com
TREE AND LANDSCAPING
Twin Oaks Tree Care (508) 397-9377
TREE SERVICES
All ProTree Service, Inc. (978) 875-3655
AllProTreeMA.com
9151 Currency St. Irving, TX
“We’ve been customers of Falconi for years and they have always taken great care of our heating and cooling needs. If we ever had an issue they were quick to respond, and communicated well." -Linda
G.
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