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. This month we are southbound to Scituate, Massachusetts, a seacoast community in Plymouth County, or what the 4Squares Team likes to call a "near-Cape" location.
If you're looking to enjoy the southern part of the state without the commitment of traveling to the far end of good old Route 3, then Scituate is an ideal spot to explore with the family or for a girls-only adventure.
Fun Facts about Scituate
The name Scituate is derived from "satuit," the Wampanoag term for cold brook, which refers to a stream that runs to the inner harbor of town.
The iconic Scituate Lighthouse is the fifth oldest lighthouse in New England and the eleventh oldest in the United States. Known simply as the Scituate Light, the lighthouse is legendary for its famed occupants, Rebecca and Abagail Bates, a pair of quick-thinking sisters whose fife and drum playing warded off an attack by British soldiers during the War of 1812. Forever known as The Army of Two, the Bates sisters have been immortalized in the book "Sisters of Scituate Light" among other publications.
A more recently famous Scituate citizen is television producer, director, and screenwriter, Peter Tolan, whose writing credits include the television series "Rescue Me," which he co-wrote alongside another famous Massachusetts son, Denis Leary.
Something to Do
While a day at one of Scituate's beaches is an option, taking to the open waters is another great way to spend the day.
If a leisurely trip down the North River feels right, then head on over to Bulman Marine and rent a canoe, or if you're feeling a little more inspired, you can take on the waters by paddleboard or kayak at their Scituate Harbor location.
For those who have yet to experience a whale watch, MassBay Guides is booking now for trips out to Stellwagen Bank, home to 19 species of marine mammals, including seals, dolphins, porpoises, and of course, finback and humpback whales! If you're fortunate, you might get to see a North Atlantic right whale, a true sight to behold!
Somewhere to Shop
Joye Gift Shop, 196 Front Street, Scituate, MA
The best part of a day trip is bringing home a souvenir. Once you've reached dry land again, take a little bit of Scituate back with you at Joye Gift Shop, a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind items created by local and fair-trade artists exclusive to Joye.
Fashionistas will adore the selection of classic and modern-style scarves, bags, and jewelry. The 4Squares Favorite was the cod-themed jewelry by The Golden Cod and the witty "in cod we trust" play on the Cape Cod theme.
Home goods range from custom-printed pottery and ceramics to handblown glass, driftwood art, and wind chimes that make a whimsical remembrance of your day away.
Someplace to Eat
Dribble's Ice Cream, 4 Brook Street, Scituate Harbor, and 367 Gannet Road, North Scituate
As the locals say, it isn't summer in Scituate until you've stopped at Dribbles for ice cream. If ice cream for dinner is on your menu, a visit to the original location at Scituate Harbor is the prime spot to grab a cone, cup, or sundae of mouth-watering goodness.
The new location in North Scituate offers a sandwich menu in addition to timeless ice cream treats, dairy-free options from The Green Creamery, and the New England slush staple, Richie's Italian Ice™. Be sure to check out Dribble's extensive selection of ice cream cakes ready to go to enjoy at home or for a seaside celebration.
Mill Wharf, 23 Mill Wharf Plaza, Scituate
If seaside dining is on your schedule, you can't beat the ambiance and menu at Mill Wharf. Enjoy a mid-day or evening meal al fresco on the deck and take in the view of the harbor and the iconic Scituate Lighthouse while you make the most challenging decision all day: what to eat! For seafood fans, the raw bar and classic options like stuffed quahogs, shrimp cocktail, and – of course! – the New England must-have, lobster rolls, await you. Landlubbers will find plenty of tasty burgers, salads, and entrees to fill their bellies. Give the Blackened Chicken & Brie or Grilled Reuben a try for something completely different!
What’s your favorite towns to visit en route to the Cape? 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!