Ever wanted to learn about the things to do in Concord, MA? If yes, this article is for you!
Located in the heart of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the town of Concord is home to some of the most prominent natural literary figures and significant historical events in the country, such as the American Revolution.
This area also offers a variety of great things to do, including hiking, exploring the countryside, and partaking in historical architecture.
Aside from being a beautiful location, the town of Concord also offers numerous natural areas suitable for landlubbers and aquatic recreation.
Let’s quickly learn more about this famous city and the different tourist attractions it has!
Where is Concord, Massachusetts?
Located in Massachusetts’ Middlesex County, the town of Concord has a population of 18,491.
It is considered part of the Greater Boston area. The center of the town is near the Assabet and Sudbury rivers, which eventually merge into the Concord River.
The town of Concord, Massachusetts, was established in 1635 by English settlers. By 1775, its population had grown to 1,400.
The town was initially known as Musketaquid, which means “grassy plain” in Algonquian.
The town’s total area is approximately 25.9 square miles. According to the US Census Bureau, it has a land area of about 24.9 square miles and a water area of around 1.0 square miles.
Things to Do in Concord, MA
Several stunning locations are available in this historic town of Concord, Massachusetts.
It is also a fun town with so many exciting activities. Below are some cool things to do in Concord, Massachusetts.
1. Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge is an excellent place for young hunters to practice and hone their hunting skills.
Although rifle and archery events are prohibited on Sundays, those who want to feast on a big goose can do so here.
Only around 3% of the world’s water supply is fresh. Fortunately, over 85% of the land in this preserve contains fresh water.
Address: The Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is at 73 Weir Hill Rd, Sudbury, MA, United States.
2. Walden Pond State Reservation
The Walden Pond State Reservation is where Henry David Thoreau wrote “Walden, or Life in the Woods.”
This beautiful preserve provides the perfect opportunity to learn where he wrote this book.
During the 1800s, people were likely to wear clothes resembling swimming trunks.
The park is open from 7 am to 8 pm and is also an excellent place to swim.
If you’re planning on visiting the park using a Tesla, arrive early as the electric vehicle parking area is first-come, first-served.
Address: The Walden Pond State Reservation is located at 915 Walden St, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
Planning to visit other parts of Massachusetts? Check out the fun Things to Do in Sandwich (MA).
3. Concord Free Public Library
The Concord Free Public Library is great for the whole family to gather.
There are various free events that the kids can participate in, such as concerts under the stars.
It’s also a great place to take a break from the activities and enjoy a good book.
Address: The Concord Free Public Library is at 129 Main St, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
4. Middlesex Fife and Drum Corps
If you’re a fan of the American Revolution and have wondered how it sounded, you’ll want to attend a Middlesex Drum and Fife Corps performance.
This group was formed in 1982 by musicians in Boston who wanted to recreate the sounds of the American Revolution.
The group plays at various events, such as weddings and small-town parades.
Address: The Middlesex Fife and Drum Corps is at Monument St, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
5. Barefoot Books
Although the studio where Barefoot Books is currently located is scheduled to close on July 19, owner Nancy Traversy is planning on moving to a larger facility.
She is currently working with her team of business ambassadors to grow their businesses.
Those waiting for the company’s relaunch can keep up with its activities through its social media accounts. They can also visit its website, barefootbooks.com.
Address: The Barefoot Books is located at 23 Bradford Street 2nd Floor Concord, MA 01742, United States.
6. Concord Museum
The Rasmussen Center is a great place to learn about the American Revolution.
It features over a hundred artifacts, including the famous “one if by land, two if by sea” lantern of Paul Revere. Free guided tours are also available at this museum.
The Rasmussen Center is open seven days a week. It’s also undergoing renovations, and some of its galleries are scheduled to reopen soon.
Address: The Concord Museum is at 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
7. Verrill Farm
If you’re planning on getting married in the area, then Verrill Farm is a great choice.
This country estate is owned and operated by the Verrill family. It features beautiful grounds and can accommodate up to 200 guests.
Take the kids to the farm during the spring to pick their berries. They’ll love the taste and know they’re getting something grown from the land.
They can also help prepare the corn during the summer for their annual Labor Day barbecue.
Address: The Verrill Farm is located at 11 Wheeler Road, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
8. The Wayside Inn
This establishment is the best choice if you’re planning to visit the historic Wayside Inn.
Even though it shares a name with the nearby Longfellow House, it started as a bar in 1716.
It’s considered to be the oldest continuously operating hotel in the country.
The restaurant features a variety of food options, such as lobster rolls and New England clam chowder.
Stop by for dinner if you’re craving a taste of the sea. The creamy soup will keep you returning to the shore every weekend.
Address: The Wayside Inn is located at 455 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA, United States.
9. Toy Shop of Concord
If you’re looking for something different about entertaining the kids, head to the Toy Shop of Concord.
This store, the country’s first specialty toy shop, was established to provide parents with a unique selection of age-appropriate toys.
In addition, the company’s founders ensure that their products are designed to inspire and educate kids.
The store’s Facebook page has listed various events. It’s on Thoreau Street, near Bedford Farms Ice Cream.
The Toy Shop of Concord can also be reached through its website.
Address: The Toy Shop of Concord is located at 89 Thoreau St. Concord, MA 01742, United States.
10. Saltbox Farm
Most kids think that their food comes from the store. However, this is not the case at Saltbox Farm, where the kids can get their nutrition from the tree they grew.
This farm uses sustainable practices and takes great pride in providing the community with the best possible food.
During its cooking class, which is held in a farmhouse, Saltbox Farm will allow 14 people to participate.
So the kids can get involved in the process and enjoy the food they’re preparing. This is a great way to spend a day in the area.
Address: The Saltbox Farm is located at 40 Westford Rd, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
11. Battle Road Trail
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of America’s founding fathers, head to the Battle Road Trail.
This is a historical walking tour that takes you back to the events during the American Revolution.
The Minute Man National Park is open from 9 am to 5 pm. If you’re planning on visiting the park, then head over to the trail’s head and watch a recreation of Paul Revere’s midnight ride.
The trail is about 9 miles long, so bring an off-road stroller for kids.
Address: The Battle Road Trail is in Concord, MA, United States.
12. Concord River
Looking for a lazy afternoon while the kids play in the water? Head over to the river in the middle of the town and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
During the spring season, the river features Class III-IV rapids. If the water is too low, the entire family can take a walk to Egg Rock.
Address: The Concord River is located at 19-31 Lowell St, North Billerica, MA 01862, United States.
13. Hapgood Wright Town Forest
Getting active is a great way to spend time with the kids and burn out some of those little legs.
If you’re planning on visiting the area, head to the Hapgood Wright Town Forest.
This forest has been described as charming and quiet. This place inspired Henry David Thoreau.
Brister’s spring was named after an enslaved person who had found sustenance from the area’s waters.
If you’re planning on visiting the area, head to the Brister-Freeman homesite.
There, Thoreau lived with his family for different periods. If you’re looking for something more spiritual, head to the reflection circle.
Address: The Hapgood Wright Town Forest is located at Walden St, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
14. The Old Manse
Those looking for the home of Ralph Waldo Emerson can visit the Old Manse.
Not only did Emerson live there, but he also wrote his famous “Nature” book there. Nathaniel Hawthorne and his wife, Sophia, also lived in the house.
This building is surrounded by trails that lead to the river. It has a bookstore that’s open during the day and at night. So if you’re a book fan, head to this facility.
Address: The Old Manse is at 269 Monument St, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
15. The Orchard House
The home where Louisa May wrote, “Little Women” was in the town of Concord.
It’s a centuries-old mansion that various educational groups have visited. The grounds are adorned with 350-year-old artifacts.
Surrounded by history, The Orchard House is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the past.
Take the kids on a living history tour or sign up for a summer program at the center.
It also hosts an annual 5K and 10K run. The money raised from these events goes toward historic preservation.
Address: The Orchard House is located at 399 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
16. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
Some of the country’s most prominent thinkers and writers are resting in the cemetery.
Some of these include Emerson, Thoreau, and the family of “Little Women” author Louisa May Alcott.
The cemetery was initially established as a nature garden under the feet of Ralph Waldo Emerson.
To make a personalized plaque for one of these individuals, take a piece of paper and some charcoal.
You can then work with the paper to make slight rubbings on the gravestones. This will allow you to have a piece of memorabilia worthy of display.
Address: The Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is located at Bedford St, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
See Also: Fun Things to Do in Manistee (MI)
17. Monument Square
Monument Square is one of the most popular attractions in the town of Concord.
It’s only a few minutes away from various other areas and attractions. So this is the perfect place to start a day trip to the city.
The obelisk in Monument Square was erected to honor the soldiers who died during the Civil War.
Several historic churches also surround it. During the summer, people can also be seen taking in the natural beauty around the area.
Address: Monument Square is located at Monument Square, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
18. Nashoba Winery
If you’re looking for an authentic farm-to-table experience, head to Nashoba Winery.
This establishment serves a variety of food and beverages. Besides food, the adults can also enjoy wine and other drinks.
If you’re planning on getting married soon, this facility has 52 acres of beautiful grounds ideal for wedding shoots.
If you’re already married, head to this venue on August 14 for food truck Fridays. This free event is a great way to enjoy quality time with family and friends.
Address: The Nashoba Winery is located at 100 Wattaquadock Hill Rd, Bolton, MA 01740, United States.
19. Emerson Playground
The Emerson Playground is an excellent place for the kids to cool off during the hot summer.
It features a seasonal splash pad that’s perfect for cooling down. In addition, its various equipment can help kids develop their strength and flexibility.
It also has a running track that’s ideal for moms who want to get in a workout while their kids play.
It also has various other activities for the kids, such as soccer, softball, and flag football. If you need something a little more entertaining, head over to Emerson.
Address: The Emerson Playground is located in Concord, MA 01742, United States.
20. Patriot Day
The City of Concord played a vital role in the American Revolution. April, it’s a great time to visit the area and celebrate the country’s independence.
The city hosts various events during April, such as the Patriot Day parade. This is a great way to take a break from doing taxes.
Address: The Patriot Day is located at 2 Lexington Road, Concord, MA 01742, United States.
21. Bay Circuit Trail & Greenway
The 230-mile trail runs through 37 towns in Massachusetts, including Concord.
It features various activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. In addition, some parts of the trail can be accessed by the commuter rail.
Address: The Bay Circuit Trail & Greenway is at Monument Street, Concord, MA, United States.