Overview

Arlington, MA, is a charming suburban town just six miles northwest of Boston. Known for its rich history, top-rated schools, and friendly community, Arlington offers a perfect mix of urban convenience and suburban tranquility. This guide will give you an in-depth look at why Arlington is such a fantastic place to live, work, and play.

Geography and Location

Arlington is strategically located, offering easy access to Boston and the surrounding areas. The town is bordered by Winchester, Lexington, and Belmont, providing a suburban feel with close proximity to urban amenities.

Historical Background

Arlington's history dates back to the 1600s when it was first settled by European colonists. Originally part of Cambridge, the town was known as Menotomy before becoming West Cambridge in 1807 and finally Arlington in 1867. Arlington played a key role in the American Revolutionary War, and many historical sites like the Jason Russell House and Old Schwamb Mill are preserved here.

Neighborhoods

Arlington is home to several unique neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character. Here's a closer look at some of the standout areas:

East Arlington

Why You'll Love It: East Arlington is known for its diverse community, vibrant arts scene, and close proximity to the Alewife T station. The area has a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and condos.

Highlights:

• Capitol Theatre: A historic theater showing indie films and live performances.
• Spy Pond Park: Perfect for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking.
• Alewife Park: IQHQ is leading an exciting transformation at Alewife Park, located at 62 Whittemore Avenue, Cambridge. Although it is located in Cambridge, the project is directly adjacent to East Arlington, a neighborhood that will directly benefit from it. It will feature state-of-the-art office space, life science labs, and extensive green areas. In addition to improving the local ecosystem, the park's redesign emphasizes sustainability, connectivity, and innovation. Its strategic location near the Alewife T Station and proximity to major transportation routes make Alewife Park an ideal hub for Arlington's growth and development.
• Dining: Enjoy a variety of cuisines including Thai, Italian, and Mexican.

Arlington Center

Why You'll Love It: The heart of Arlington, Arlington Center, is bustling with activity. It's home to the town hall, library, and many local businesses.

Highlights:

• Robbins Library: A hub for community activities and learning.
• Whittemore Park: Beautiful gardens and walking paths.
• Regent Theatre: A historic theater offering live performances, concerts, and classic film screenings, contributing to Arlington's vibrant cultural scene.
• Dining: A wide array of cafes, bakeries, and fine dining options.

Jason Heights

Why You'll Love It: Jason Heights offers a quiet, residential feel with beautiful historic homes and tree-lined streets.

Highlights:

• Jason Russell House: A historic site from the American Revolutionary War.
• Menotomy Rocks Park: Great for hiking and picnicking.

Arlington Heights

Why You'll Love It: Located in the western part of Arlington, this neighborhood is known for its hilly terrain and scenic views.

Highlights:

• Arlington Reservoir: Popular for swimming and outdoor activities.
• Shopping: Local shops and eateries along Mass Ave.

Turkey Hill

Why You'll Love It: Turkey Hill is a residential area known for its spacious homes and family-friendly environment.

Highlights:

• Turkey Hill Reservation: Hiking trails and scenic vistas.
• Top-rated Schools: Great proximity to excellent public schools.

Robbins Farm Park

Why You'll Love It: Robbins Farm Park offers stunning views of the Boston skyline and is a favorite for families and picnickers.

Highlights:

• Playground: Large playground for children.
• Events: Hosts annual Fourth of July celebrations and more.

Little Scotland

Why You'll Love It: This small, charming neighborhood has a unique historical background and strong community spirit.

Highlights:

• Historic Homes: Distinctive architectural styles.
• Community Involvement: An active neighborhood association.

Morningside

Why You'll Love It: Morningside is known for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to Mystic Lake.

Highlights:

• Outdoor Activities: Boating, fishing, and hiking trails.
• Residential Appeal: Quiet streets and well-maintained properties.

Kelwyn Manor

Why You'll Love It: This picturesque neighborhood near Spy Pond is known for its strong community ties.

Highlights:

• Spy Pond Access: Ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Neighborhood Events: Regular social gatherings and activities.

Interlaken

Why You'll Love It: Interlaken offers a mix of historic homes and modern residences with a close-knit community vibe.

Highlights:

• Proximity to Alewife Brook: Great for walking and cycling.
• Historic Sites: Several preserved historic homes.

Housing Market

Arlington's real estate market offers a variety of options, from historic homes to modern condos. The town's excellent schools and proximity to Boston make it a popular choice for families and professionals.

Market Overview:

• Median Home Price: Around $800,000
• Housing Types: Single-family homes, condos, and apartments
• Popular Areas: Arlington Center, East Arlington, and Arlington Heights

Market Report:

Metric	Value
Median Home Price	$800,000
Average Days on Market	XX days
Number of Homes Sold	XX
Average Price per Sq Ft	$XXX
Inventory Levels	XX homes

Tips for Buyers:

• Work with a local realtor who knows the Arlington market.
• Consider proximity to schools and public transportation.
• Attend open houses and neighborhood events to get a feel for the community.

Transportation

Arlington is well-connected to Boston and the surrounding areas through various public transportation options.

MBTA Services:

• Bus Routes: Multiple routes connect to the Red Line at Alewife and the Green Line at Lechmere.
• Commuter Rail: Nearby stations in Winchester and Belmont on the Fitchburg Line.

Bike Paths:

• Minuteman Bikeway: Popular trail for cyclists and pedestrians running through Arlington.

Schools and Education

Arlington is known for its highly regarded public school system, making it a top choice for families.

Public Schools:

• Hardy Elementary School: Offers a strong academic curriculum and a supportive community environment. Known for its dedicated staff and active PTO.
• Bishop Elementary School: Renowned for its focus on academic excellence and student well-being. Provides various extracurricular activities and programs.
• Brackett Elementary School: Features a rigorous academic program and a vibrant community. Emphasizes student engagement and innovative teaching methods.
• Peirce Elementary School: Known for its nurturing environment and strong academic performance. Offers various enrichment programs and community events.
• Stratton Elementary School: Provides a balanced education with a focus on both academics and social-emotional learning. Active parent involvement.
• Thompson Elementary School: Offers a diverse and inclusive environment with a strong emphasis on academic achievement and personal growth.
• Dallin Elementary School: Known for its strong academic programs and community engagement. Offers a variety of extracurricular activities.
• Ottoson Middle School: Provides a comprehensive education with a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs. Known for its supportive and inclusive environment.
• Arlington High School: Offers a diverse curriculum with numerous AP courses, extracurricular activities, and sports programs. Known for its academic excellence and student support services.

Private Schools:

• International School of Boston: Provides a bilingual education in French and English, fostering a global perspective. Offers a rigorous academic program from preschool to high school.
• Lesley Ellis School: Focuses on individualized education and fostering a love of learning. Known for its innovative teaching methods and inclusive environment.

Libraries:

• Robbins Library: Extensive resources, community programs, and events. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
• Fox Library: A smaller, community-focused branch offering a cozy environment and a variety of programs for all ages.

Recreation and Parks

Arlington offers a wealth of parks and recreational facilities, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Major Parks:

• Menotomy Rocks Park: Scenic hiking trails, a beautiful pond for relaxation and picnics, and a playground for children.
• Spy Pond Park: Kayaking, canoeing, fishing, walking and biking paths, picnic areas, and playground.
• Robbins Farm Park: Stunning views of the Boston skyline, playground, baseball and soccer fields, community garden plots, and annual Fourth of July celebrations.
• Arlington Reservoir: Swimming, fishing, picnicking, and a beach area.
• McClennen Park: Sports fields, a skate park, a playground, and walking trails.
• Hurd Field: Athletic fields, a playground, and walking paths.
• Cutter Park: Open green space, picnic areas, and recreational facilities.
• Thorndike Field: Large athletic fields, community sports leagues, picnic areas, and playground for children.
• Alewife Park: Although located in Cambridge, this project by IQHQ at 62 Whittemore Avenue features state-of-the-art office space, life science labs, and extensive green areas. Its strategic location near the Alewife T Station and proximity to major transportation routes make it an ideal hub for Arlington's growth and development.

For a detailed guide on Arlington’s parks, check out these articles:

• Arlington, MA Parks
• Off-Leash Dog Parks in Arlington

Recreational Facilities:

• Arlington Recreation Department: Organized sports leagues for all ages, fitness classes, summer camps, adult education, and youth development programs.
• Arlington Boys & Girls Club: After-school programs, swimming lessons, teen leadership programs, arts and crafts, fitness and wellness programs, and special events.
• The Fidelity House: A non-profit community center offering various programs and activities for all ages, including sports leagues, fitness classes, and after-school programs. Learn more

Local Events and Attractions

Arlington hosts numerous community events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community.

Annual Events:

• Patriots’ Day Parade: Celebrates Arlington's historical significance with reenactments, marching bands, and local vendors.
• Feast of the East: Summer festival featuring local food, live music, arts and crafts booths, and children's activities.
• Arlington Town Day: Fall celebration with vendors, performances, street fair, food stalls, live entertainment, and evening fireworks display.
• Arlington International Film Festival: Showcases independent films from around the world.
• Arlington Porchfest: Music festival with local bands performing on porches throughout the town.
• Arlington Alive Arts Block Party: Celebration of arts with performances, crafts, and interactive activities.
• Summer Concert Series: Weekly concerts at various parks throughout Arlington.
• Fourth of July Celebrations: Fireworks, parades, and family-friendly activities.
• Arlington Farmers Market: Weekly market with local produce, handmade crafts, live music, and food sampling.
• Arlington Brewing Company Beer Garden Event: Community gathering with locally crafted beers, live music, and food trucks. More about the event

Restaurants and Dining

Arlington’s dining scene offers a variety of cuisines, from casual eateries to fine dining. Shopping options include unique boutiques and essential services.

Popular Dining Spots:

• Flora: Upscale American cuisine with seasonal menu changes.
• Blue Ribbon BBQ: Authentic barbecue with house-smoked meats.
• Tryst: Modern American fare with creative cocktails.
• Scutra: European-inspired cuisine with a cozy ambiance.
• Toraya: Traditional Japanese sushi and dishes.
• Menotomy Grill & Tavern: American comfort food with a historical vibe.
• Za: Pizza and salad bar with fresh, local ingredients.
• Tango Restaurant: Argentinean steakhouse with delicious grilled meats.
• La Victoria Taqueria: Authentic Mexican street food.
• Kickstand Cafe: Coffee, pastries, and light meals with a community feel.
• Jimmy's Steer House: Classic steakhouse with hearty portions.
• Sabatino's Restaurant: Italian cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Thai Moon: Delicious Thai dishes with a cozy ambiance.
• Not Your Average Joe's: American chain offering creative comfort food.
• Punjab Palace: Authentic Indian cuisine with a variety of traditional dishes.

Shopping

Arlington offers diverse shopping areas with unique boutiques and essential services.

Shopping Areas:

• Arlington Center: Mix of shops, cafes, and services including independent bookstores, specialty food stores, and boutiques.
• Arlington Heights: Local businesses, antique shops, hardware stores, and family-owned restaurants.
• East Arlington: Diverse dining and shopping options including ethnic grocery stores, artisan bakeries, and clothing stores.
• Broadway Plaza: Shopping center with various retail stores and eateries.
• The Heights Shopping District: A collection of local shops, cafes, and essential services.

Healthcare Facilities

Arlington offers a range of healthcare facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care.

Local Hospitals:

• Mount Auburn Hospital: Provides comprehensive healthcare services and specialty care.
• Winchester Hospital: Known for its high-quality patient care and advanced medical treatments.

Urgent Care Centers:

• Arlington Urgent Care: Offers immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions.
• MinuteClinic at CVS: Provides walk-in medical services for minor illnesses and injuries.

Specialty Clinics:

• Arlington Family Practice: Comprehensive family medical care with a focus on preventive health.
• Orthopedic Affiliates: Specialized care for musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.

Community and Culture

Arlington boasts a vibrant community spirit and rich cultural scene.

Community Centers:

• Arlington Community Center: Offers a variety of community programs, events, and classes.
• Arlington Center for the Arts: Provides art classes, workshops, and exhibits for all ages.

Cultural Attractions:

• Regent Theatre: A historic venue for live performances, concerts, and films.
• Old Schwamb Mill: Historic mill offering tours, educational programs, and art exhibits.
• Arlington Historical Society: Preserves and shares Arlington's rich history through exhibits and events.
• Uncle Sam Plaza: Historical statue, seasonal floral displays, and community events.

Hidden Gems of Arlington

Arlington is home to several lesser-known spots that are worth exploring.

Hidden Gems:

• Old Schwamb Mill: Historic mill offering tours, educational programs, and art exhibits.
• The Book Rack: Cozy used bookstore with a wide selection and regular events.
• Great Meadows: Peaceful natural area with scenic walking trails and diverse wildlife.
• Arlington’s Great Hill: Hidden hiking trails with panoramic views and picnic spots.
• Ed Burns Ice Arena: Public ice skating, hockey leagues, figure skating programs, and seasonal shows.
• Cutter Gallery: Local art exhibitions, classes, and community art projects.
• Crosby Tennis Courts: Public tennis courts, lessons, and seasonal tournaments.
• Uncle Sam Plaza: Historical statue, seasonal floral displays, and community events.
• Jason Russell House: Historic house museum with Revolutionary War artifacts and guided tours.
• Robbins Library Gardens: Beautifully maintained gardens perfect for a quiet stroll or reading.
• Winfield Robbins Memorial Garden: Tranquil park with statues, a fountain, and beautiful landscaping.
• Gibbs School Garden: Community garden with seasonal plantings and educational programs.
• Arlington Community Center: Offers a variety of community programs, events, and classes.
• Arlington Center for the Arts: Provides art classes, workshops, and exhibits for all ages.
• Wright-Locke Farm: Historic farm offering tours, educational programs, and seasonal events.
• Mystic River Path: Scenic walking and biking path along the Mystic River.

Conclusion

Arlington, MA, is a vibrant town that perfectly balances historical charm with modern amenities. Its diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools, beautiful parks, and rich cultural scene make it an ideal place for families, professionals, and anyone looking for a welcoming community. Whether you're exploring local eateries, participating in community events, or enjoying the scenic outdoors, Arlington offers something for everyone. This guide provides a comprehensive look into what makes Arlington special, ensuring you're well-equipped to discover all that this wonderful town has to offer. Welcome to Arlington!