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're traveling northbound to Wakefield, MA, which may sound far away, but sits less than 7 miles away from Medford.
Fun Facts about Wakefield
The Town of Wakefield was initially settled in 1638 and was originally known as Lynn Village. Soon after, in 1644, the town was incorporated as Reading. In 1868 the area was renamed Wakefield in honor of Cyrus Wakefield, founder of The Rattan Works, a leading rattan furniture manufacturer.
Paul K. Guillow, Inc., one of the world's oldest and largest manufacturers of flying model airplane toys, is located in Wakefield. The company is particularly notable for its extensive line of model airplane kits.
Notable Wakefield natives include: Former Massachusetts State and U.S. Senator Scott Brown; two-time Olympic gold medalist and world champion in Judo, Kayla Harrison; and Season 2 finalist on NBC's hit show The Voice, James Massone.
Something to Do
Wakefield Bowladrome, 92 Water Street, Wakefield, MA
Take a step back in time and enjoy the very New England sport of candlepin bowling at Wakefield Bowladrome. Nestled in Wakefield Center, this family-owned bowling alley retains its vintage charm with signs and designs from the 1960s and a staff devoted to ensuring you have a good time. A perfect rainy afternoon getaway for kids of all ages, you'll learn the art of scoring by hand and the science of wielding smaller bowling balls held in the palm against palindromic pins that are the same upside down as right-side up.
Lake Quannapowitt, Lowell Street, Wakefield, MA
If you've fallen into a rut with your daily walking or jogging ritual, head over to Lake Quannapowitt, or Lake Q, as the locals call it, for a change of scenery. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy Lake Q for the first time. You'll have a beautiful breeze from the lake and a spectacular view of the fall foliage. Peek in at the shoreline along the way and see ducks and geese before they fly off for winter or catch a view of aquatic wildlife just beneath the water's edge.
Lake Q is also popular for boating, windsurfing, and kayaking. The lakeside playground is a favorite of the smaller set, and the historic gazebo is an ideal location for the family photo shoot you've been thinking about.
Someplace to Eat
The Gingerbread Construction Company, 52 Main Street, Wakefield, MA
As you make your way around Lake Q, you'll no doubt be tempted by the smells of baked goods from this local institution. But don't be fooled! There's more than gingerbread houses to tempt the tastebuds, namely the decadent muffins!
Pumpkin lovers will gravitate to the Pumpkin-Raisin Muffin with cream cheese frosting, and Apple fans will unite over the Apple' n Spice. For something exceptional, try the Boston Kreme Muffin, full of chocolatey goodness and Bavarian Cream, or the Strawberry Shortcake Muffin with freshly-cut strawberries and whipped cream. The good old standbys – blueberry, coffee cake, and chocolate chip – are also available.
Blue Moon Grill, 955 Main Street, Wakefield, MA
Nothing says "the weekend" like breakfast out; at Blue Moon, you'll feel right at home. Specializing in homemade food with North End flair, Blue Moon's menu includes a long list of variations on standard breakfast fare. Some 4Square Favorites include the Prosciutto Stuffed Omelet, Pear Stuffed French Toast, and the Asparagus Frittata. If you're craving lighter fare, try an Acai Bowl brimming with fruit and coconut, and for the gluten-free crowd, there are also plenty of GF options available.
Somewhere to Shop
The Sweetbay Shop, 478 Main Street, Wakefield, MA
Sweetbay is Wakefield's one-stop shop for home décor, floral arrangements, and curated gifts. Their staff of professional gift-givers will help you create a gift for a special someone, no matter the occasion. The fall seasonal offerings include plenty of pumpkin and spooky-themed tea towels, candles, and the like, as well as some super cozy blankets for the chillier days to come.
Speaking of spooky, subscribe to Sweetbay's email list to learn about the Tarot Card readings that are part of their after-hours shopping events!
Rada Boutique, 394 Main Street, Wakefield, MA
Looking stylish on a budget may seem a contradiction in terms, but for Rada Boutique in Wakefield, it's their superpower. Not only do the fashionistas at Rada's hand pick and curate consignment pieces to fit their boutique collection, but they also offer personal styling sessions to help you create a style all your own. From jeans and sweaters to purses, scarves, and jewelry, Rada promises you'll "leave a little more fabulous than when you came in"!
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!