METRO WEST
An elegant suburban atmosphere, outstanding retail centers, excellent highway connections, and mass transit facilities combine to attract newcomers to the cities and towns west of Boston. Friendly developments with abundant open space blend with the high-tech industrial base to make these communities extremely desirable. Many of these suburban bedroom communities have evolved from agricultural roots, accommodating growth with careful planning and zoning to preserve their natural beauty and country appeal in the midst of a burgeoning economy. Working farms are still evident along the outskirts of many residential areas, creating a landscape reminiscent of old-world America.
Although many of the residents of the Metro West communities work in Boston, the Route 128 industrial corridor, and other employment centers, opportunities for local employment have greatly expanded in recent years. Some major corporations and many smaller businesses have settled into suburbia. Wonderful retail centers boost the economy of some cities and towns, while others engage in a brisk tourist trade based on historical attractions. Fruit orchards and agricultural concerns still play a vital role in the regional economy.
Commuters to Boston can take advantage of major arteries like the Massachusetts Turnpike and Interstate 90. Routes 2 and 117 traverse the region from the west, and Route 128 is highly accessible to most Metro West communities. Bus service combines with MBTA commuter rail service through such cities as Acton, Concord, and Lincoln.
Services
The high education level of residents combined with their involvement in civic affairs have resulted in responsive municipal services, fine local hospitals, well-respected centers of higher education, and excellent public and private school systems that consistently score in the top percentiles for the state and frequently the nation. State-of-the-art healthcare is available close to home at acclaimed hospitals and medical centers that combine personalized care with advanced technology and the latest in diagnostics and treatment.
An outstanding selection of public and private schools ensure a quality education for residents of all ages and backgrounds. Elementary and secondary level students can look forward to a strong core curriculum enhanced by innovative programs. Regional resources that are shared by several communities allow the schools to make the best use of available finding in providing state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive instruction that ranges form college-prep to practical skill-oriented training. The selection of institutions of higher education within an easy commute include acclaimed public and private colleges and universities.
Lifestyle
Many of the communities in Metro West were founded in the 1700s and are noted for their historic landmarks, monuments, and antique buildings. Lexington and Concord are particularly famous, drawing tourists to the grounds where the first battles of the Revolution were waged. Many early-American authors claimed their region as their home, leaving a rich legacy of literary influence that is still felt today. Cultural amenities abound in the form of superb choral organizations, respected symphonies, and fascinating attractions like the DeCordova Museum that is housed in a castle-like mansion in Lincoln.
Effective local governments have managed to protect expansive parcels of prime recreation land, revitalize outdated manufacturing economies when needed, and encourage growth while preserving the serenity of a “country” environment. The Metro West area reflects open space as well as friendly neighborhoods surrounded by ponds, lakes, fields, and streams that create a peaceful backdrop for suburban living.
High standards in construction ensure that beautiful, well-designed homes are available in a variety of architectural styles. Housing choices here represent some of the finest in New England, from quaint farmhouses along quiet country roads to vintage colonials in the heart of a downtown historic district. Whether your dream is a Cape Cod or a ranch-style home in a new development—or perhaps an antique mansion shaded by fine old trees—you are likely to find it on the market in one of the attractive Metro North communities.
Options for multifamily living are on the rise in many of the growing cities and towns, including luxurious apartment complexes and condominiums that feature lush grounds and private recreational facilities. Among the regional sites for outdoor adventure, relaxation, and exercise are the Great Brook State Park in Carlisle, the Garden in the Woods in Framingham, and Lake Cochituate—an 1,100-acre State Park in Natick. Lakeside beaches, sports fields, ice-skating rinks, lovely woodlands, miles of bridle trails, and sprawling open spaces combine with luxurious golf courses, tennis clubs, and community centers to please everyone from the serious athlete to the socialite.
Take your time experiencing the many flavors of Metro West before selecting just the right place to call home. You’ll be enchanted by the country sights, sounds, and fragrances that await you in this delightful area “just west of Boston.” Regardless of where you choose to settle, rural elegance and country charm ensure a residential haven far from the rushed pace and crowds of urban life.
Acton
Municipal Offices
978-929-6620
https://www.acton-ma.gov
Chamber of Commerce
978-263-0010
https://www.mwcoc.com
Evolving from its farming roots into a summer resort for Boston’s elite, Acton serves as an historic and suburb of picturesque neighborhoods. Acton’s proud residents have preserved the panoramic countryside, supported nationally honored schools, and developed extensive recreational amenities. Acton is popular with commuters because of its ideal location midway between Interstate 495 and Route 128 and the availability of public transportation. Elegant older homes are located in the heart of town, while newer housing developments that feature contemporary designs are scattered throughout the area. Shopping is upscale and medical services are excellent. Civic involvement is impressive and the cultural scene is ever broadening. More than 1,000 acres of conservation land and an exquisite arboretum grace the area. Other recreational amenities include tennis courts, playgrounds, playing fields, indoor swimming pool, and league sports. Acton schools boast teams that are legendary for garnering league and state titles.
Ashland
Municipal Offices
508-881-0100
https://www.ashlandmass.com
Chamber of Commerce
508-879-5600
http://www.metrowest.org/
As a quiet suburb with a pleasing mix of housing options, Ashland is home to neighborhoods surrounded by rich farmland, lush woods, and tranquil pastures. Commuters are especially drawn to Ashland for the easy access it provides to major thoroughfares as well as the potential for generous lot sizes and lovely homes graced by large, beautiful yards. Although Ashland was once considered to be a small manufacturing community, most famous as the home of General Electric’s Ashland Clock Company, rapid residential growth over recent decades has all but eclipsed that former image. New construction is evident everywhere, from modern homes to a new shopping center. Community spirit is strong, evidenced by the number of civic, social, service, and athletic organizations available to residents. Recreational opportunities include swimming, fishing, and picnicking at Ashland State Park.
Concord
Municipal Offices
978-318-3080
https://www.concordma.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
508-879-5600
http://www.metrowest.org/
Steeped in history as the site of the initial battle of the American Revolution, Concord has preserved its historic landmarks as well as its tradition of character and independence. Meticulously restored and preserved homes, horse-drawn plows used for cleaning streets covered with snow, and the second-oldest circulating library in the nation are all part of the Concord ambiance. A quiet, comfortable suburb with active community involvement, Concord features convenient commuter rail service and a downtown shopping area with a variety of stores and specialty shops. Free local bus service is available for shopping and medical needs. Outstanding schools and a regional high school shared with Carlisle provide a quality education to area youth. Colonial and antique architectural styles dominate the housing selection, but modern homes in contemporary styles on large lots can also be found. Recreational amenities include golf courses, boating on Concord River, tennis courts, and swimming pools.
Dover
Municipal Offices
508-785-0032
https://www.doverma.org
Chamber of Commerce
508-879-5600
http://www.metrowest.org/
Characterized as a picturesque town of many fine country estates, Dover is a strictly residential community that offers a quiet lifestyle, a respected school system, and highly developed recreational amenities. Strict zoning laws and cooperative planning between the residents and local government ensure the continuity of this chosen atmosphere. The community is characterized by the natural beauty of its rural atmosphere and the handsome selection of older, stately homes on large lots. Newer developments offer spacious single-family homes in a variety of architectural styles. Well known as a center for equestrian activities, Dover boasts more than 200 miles of bridle paths. Other recreational facilities include Channing Pond and Dover-Westwood Conservation Club. Caryl Park offers tennis courts, picnic areas, playing fields, and walking trails.
Framingham
Municipal Offices
508-532-5411
https://www.framinghamma.gov
Chamber of Commerce
508-879-5600
http://www.metrowest.org/
The community of Framingham, midway between Boston and Worcester, provides residents with good access to MBTA commuter rail and buses. Framingham has experienced rapid growth in recent years, shifting from a small country town to one of the most well-developed cities in the area. A dramatic explosion of retail activity, entertainment venues, and fine restaurants has occurred along the “Golden Mile” that lines both sides of Route 9. In the midst of all this progressive development, the Framingham Center section still preserves the charming simplicity that once made this community so popular with new residents. Quiet neighborhoods offer a large variety of architectural styles and price ranges, including older colonial homes and clusters of handsome multi-family condominiums. This dynamic community manages to blend modern city services with the best of suburban living. Advantages include an outstanding school system, Framingham State College, and some of the state’s most comprehensive shopping facilities. Recreational facilities include tennis courts, sports clubs and leagues, playgrounds, and ballfields.
Hudson
Municipal Offices
978-568-9615
https://www.townofhudson.org
Chamber of Commerce
978-568-0360
http://www.assabetvalleychamber.org/
Situated at the junction of Interstate 495 and Route 20, Hudson has evolved from its roots as a thriving manufacturing town into a friendly community with a pleasing residential atmosphere. The cluster of light modern industries still provides a healthy economic base for the area. The balanced lifestyle possible in Hudson is enhanced by the community’s ideal location midway between Boston and Worcester, both renowned for their cultural amenities. Hudson itself offers supervised athletic programs, Assabet River, beautiful parks, and several lakes for superb recreational opportunities. The town beach offers boating, swimming and water-skiing. Newcomers will discover a pleasing variety of housing, from older homes on city lots or large parcels to newer single-family residences that showcase diverse architectural styles.
Lexington
Municipal Offices
781-862-0500
https://www.lexingtonma.gov
Chamber of Commerce
781-862-2480
http://www.lexingtonchamber.org/
Distinguished as the birthplace of American liberty, few towns typify the New England spirit as strongly as Lexington. The town’s historic legacy centers around the opening battle of the American Revolution. Located just 12 miles northwest of Boston and 5 minutes from Route 128, the region’s high tech corridor, Lexington affords an easy commute to major colleges, hospitals, and employment centers. Lexington’s public school system is regarded as one of the state’s finest. This coveted residential suburb has preserved thousands of acres of land for woodlands or agricultural use. World-class ice-skating facilities, tennis courts, indoor/outdoor swimming pools and tracks, ballfields, golf courses, multi-purpose trails are all available. The very popular Minuteman Bike Path continues on into Bedford, Arlington, and Cambridge. This beautiful and peaceful suburb offers primarily large, older homes that reflect the colonial period. Most modern homes have also been carefully designed to blend with the town’s historic flavor.
Lincoln
Municipal Offices
781-259-2600
https://www.lincolntown.org
Chamber of Commerce
781-894-4700
https://www.walthamchamber.com
Located at the intersection of Routes 2 and 128 just 30 minutes from Boston, Lincoln is a beautiful community of diverse home styles on spacious lots. Secluded yet sophisticated, Lincoln offers rolling fields, stone walls, and wood barns that create a relaxing country atmosphere for those who travel to urban employment centers. Many of yesterday’s country estates now serve as schools, museums, town buildings, or parks. Lincoln is known for its excellent school system, innovative educational programs, and for the cultural opportunities offered by the DeCordova Museum and Drumlin Farm. Retention of open space and protection of its rural character is a high priority for Lincoln residents, evidenced by the preservation of key parcels of land throughout the community. Significant acreage is devoted to wildlife and water supply or public conservation trails. Other recreational amenities include a swimming pool, tennis courts, and playing fields.
Marlborough
Municipal Offices
508-460-3775
https://www.marlborough-ma.gov
Chamber of Commerce
508-485-7746
https://marlboroughchamber.org/
A small and attractive semi-rural city, Marlborough serves a vital employment center as well as a pleasant residential community. The city’s location at the intersection of Interstate 495 and Route 290 as well as the strong business and corporate development ensure a bright future and healthy economy. In addition to its own industrial sector, Marlborough is a good choice for commuters to the North and South Shores, Boston, and other key New England destinations. Comprehensive services, an innovative school system, a host of cultural programs, and leisure activities for all ages have made Marlborough an attractive choice for newcomers. The community’s attractive image is further enhanced by the revitalized downtown district. Residential neighborhoods offer a variety of housing, from multi-family condominiums to sprawling single-family homes on generous lots. Recreational amenities include an indoor ice-skating rink, hockey rink, parks, playgrounds, Jericho Ski area, and the Marlborough Equestrian Center.
Maynard
Municipal Offices
978-897-1300
https://www.townofmaynard-ma.gov
Chamber of Commerce
978-263-0010
https://www.mwcoc.com
Although Maynard is modest in population, it has managed to attract a number of high-tech firms, due in part to its strategic location in close proximity to Route 128 as well as Routes 2 and 2A. This balanced and highly diversified community encompasses a pleasing mix of residential neighborhoods and developments, as well as commercial and industrial sectors. Maynard features a number of pleasing residential neighborhoods that offer a combination of well-kept older and newer homes. The downtown district offers a collection of small shops and services, although additional shopping can be found in adjacent Acton. Facilities for leisure activity include a community center with recreational programs, a country club, golf course, sports fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a skating rink.
Natick
Municipal Offices
508-647-6400
https://www.natickma.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
508-879-5600
http://www.metrowest.org/
A blend of old-world charm, modern construction, and progressive services, Natick offers a balanced variety of public services, shopping facilities, and architectural styles in addition to an excellent school system. An excellent public school system features beautiful campuses that have attracted national attention, and housing options are both diverse and attractive. Route 9 and the Massachusetts Turnpike provide residents with an easy commute to Boston. Primarily residential, Natick also supports a strong commercial sector. Extensive shopping is found in the downtown district, at Natick Mall, and along Route 9 at Sherwood Plaza. Outdoor activities and facilities are abundant in Natick with its beautiful State Park and well-equipped beach area. Tennis courts, YMCA, parks, playgrounds, playing fields, private swim and tennis club, a yacht club, and Memorial Beach are all available for all-season recreation.
Sherborn
Municipal Offices
508-651-7853
https://www.sherbornma.org
Chamber of Commerce
508-879-5600
http://www.metrowest.org/
Previously an agricultural community that supplemented its local economy with small industries like cider mills and shoe making, Sherborn today is a spacious, uncrowded residential town. Sherborn prides itself on its well-respected school district and peaceful rural atmosphere that has remained unspoiled by development. Careful zoning that calls for generous lots has preserved the open feeling and country appeal. A significant percentage of the community has been preserved as forest and undeveloped land, ensuring the unspoiled natural beauty that has always been the Sherborn heritage. Housing lots typically range from one to three acres in size. A few historic houses date back to the Revolutionary War, although new custom homes are often set back from the road for the ultimate in privacy. Farm Pond is available for swimming and boating. Other recreational amenities include tennis courts, ice-skating area, playing fields, hiking/biking trails, and a bridle path through the town forest.
Sudbury
Municipal Offices
978-443-3351
https://sudbury.ma.us/
Chamber of Commerce
508-879-5600
http://www.metrowest.org/
Graced by natural beauty, Sudbury is an ideal blend of old and new—still rural, yet vibrant. This beautiful New England suburb features lovely residential neighborhoods of charming historical homes and well-designed new construction set on large, meticulously landscaped properties surrounded by broad meadows and deep forests. Old barns, stone walls, gracious farmhouses, and wonderfully pre-Revolutionary homes are a common sight. Sudbury is the home of the Wayside Inn/Restaurant, built in 1680 and considered to be one of the oldest inns in the nation. Each fall, the community welcomes visitors to the Colonial Fair. Unusually fine schools and town facilities combine with a myriad of recreational opportunities and active civic, social, and charitable organizations to keep residents involved. Commuting is convenient via Routes 128 and Interstate 495 or by bus, and major shopping malls are just 10 minutes from home. Recreational highlights included the National Wildlife Refuge and the Sudbury River area for canoeing, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
Wayland
Municipal Offices
508-358-7701
https://www.wayland.ma.us
Chamber of Commerce
508-879-5600
http://www.metrowest.org/
This exclusively residential community features quaint, winding roads graced by some of the most beautiful houses and landscaped gardens in the state. Convenient to the Massachusetts Turnpike, Wayland is a popular choice with commuters to Boston or those employed along the high technology corridor. A strong community spirit, careful zoning and planning, a progressive government, and a commitment to preserving the town’s country atmosphere are all responsible for Wayland’s high quality of life. Small shopping centers meet daily retail needs, although larger malls are close to home. Public schools have an outstanding reputation as a quality system with a strong college preparatory program. A natural wildlife preserve set along the Sudbury River and Lake Cochituate provide a scenic backdrop for many outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, canoeing, and sailing. Other amenities include golf courses, playing fields, tennis courts, cross-country ski trials, and the National Wildlife Refuge along the Sudbury River.
