By 4Squares Residential Group in Partnership with Judi 411
Welcome to another segment of 4Squares Residential Group's "A Day Away," where we feature fun places to spend the day across Massachusetts. Continuing the staycation theme, we're featuring another nearby neighborhood, Allston-Brighton, MA.
If you're looking for a change of scenery within a few miles of home, head over the Charles River to Allston-Brighton for a fun-filled afternoon!
Fun Facts about Allston-Brighton
Brighton and Allston are officially recognized neighborhoods within the City of Boston, each with a distinct history and flavor.
Initially part of Cambridge, Brighton is named after the English city of Brighton and Hove and is often referred to as "Little Cambridge." Situated near Boston University and Boston College, Brighton is bustling with young professionals and families and offers many pubs and ethnic restaurants, providing a wide selection of options for a leisurely afternoon or a night on the town.
Brighton's sister-neighborhood, Allston, was named after the American painter and poet Washington Allston, and it remains an artistic haven known for its murals and interesting music venues. However, Allston's true claim to fame is "Allston Christmas," the nickname for the day many students move into their new apartment, leaving behind furniture and decor curbside in the city.
Something to Do
Artesani Playground Wading Pool and Spray Deck 1255 Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, MA
When it comes to spray decks and wading pools, Artesani is one of the best around. Equipped with various free-standing sprays and a wading pool, Artesani is a perfect spot to bring the littler set on a hot, humid day or late afternoon. Stand under the Sneaky Sneaker and let the bell-shaped tipping buckets spill water all over you, and then head over to the Gusher for a GIANT spray effect! Those looking for a more gentle experience will enjoy the wading pool and the nearby playground.
Chestnut Hill Reservation 355 Chestnut Hill Ave., Brighton, MA
Chestnut Hill Reservation is the perfect spot if you're looking for a change of scenery for a walk, jog, or bike ride. Meander along the 1.5-mile paved trail around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir, and enjoy the views of this iconic Boston landmark, which brings you to the edges of Boston College's campus and offers beautiful views of the Chestnut Historic District neighborhood's majestic homes. Or enjoy another historical relic, the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum, and learn the unique stories of one of the country's first metropolitan water systems. Once you're done with your stroll or bike ride, cool off by taking a dip in the nearby Reilly Pool at 335 Chestnut Hill Avenue.
Somewhere to Shop
Ritual Arts, 153 Harvard Avenue, Allston, MA
Located steps away from the "Harvard and Comm" T-stop, Ritual Arts specializes in spiritual gifts, eclectic jewelry, scarves, accessories, and home goods items like sweet-smelling incense and candles. A beautiful, warm and welcoming respite from the bustle of the city, Ritual Arts is the ideal spot to shop for the alternative healing person in your life, and the staff is always available to answer questions, no matter where you are in your spiritual journey.
Vivant Vintage, 318 Lincoln Street, Allston, MA
Located closer to the Mass Pike side of Allston, Vivant Vintage offers an extensive collection of vintage clothing, antiques, sterling jewelry, and oddities from local designers. Fun fact: Vivant Vintage's inventory is often sought out by Film and Theater companies and working Artists and Photographers. Who knows? You could be wearing something you'll see in the movies one day!
Someplace(s) to Eat
Lulu's Allston, 421 Cambridge Street, Allston, MA
Summer means patio dining, and Lulu's in Allston is a fine place for dining al fresco. Designed for brunch fans and beer lovers, Lulu's patio sports 50 dining seats plus colorful lounge furniture – including seating made from repurposed kegs! -- and outdoor games like bocce and cornhole. Choose from over 50 beers on tap and enjoy munchies like Allston Breakfast Burritos or White Trash Hash, or a variety of Smashburger's made Lulu's way.
Carlo's Cucina, 131 Brighton Ave, Allston, MA 02134
Grab a taste of Italy at Carlo's, the family-owned restaurant that's called Allston home since the 1970s and one of the Boston Globe's Top 10 Underrated Restaurants. A true hidden gem, Carlo's serves up all the comfort-food favorites: calamari, parmigiana, and lasagna, but the must-try dish is Pollo Irene: Sautéed chicken breast, potatoes, mushrooms, peppers, and onions, in a white wine sauce.
What's your favorite town to staycation near Medford, MA? Showcasing cities throughout Massachusetts is one of our favorite ways to help our readers (and clients!) love the way they live in Medford and beyond. Drop us a note at Jen@4SquaresRE.com and tell us your hidden gems hangouts! Want more? Subscribe to our newsletter!