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Turreted Victorian houses on tree-lined hills give Melrose its character, and the city still feels much as it did when commuter trains first turned it into a Boston suburb in the late 1800s. Just seven miles north of downtown Boston, it pairs an active Main Street with quiet streets of wraparound porches and old shade trees.
Originally part of Malden, Melrose became its own town in 1850 and a city in 1900. A few far older buildings survive, including the Phineas Upham House from the early 1700s, while the Beebe Estate, a grand nineteenth century mansion, now serves as an arts and community venue. Memorial Hall, built in the early twentieth century to honor the city's veterans, hosts concerts and events on Main Street.
Outdoors, Melrose borders the rocky woods of the Middlesex Fells, has a city golf course on Mount Hood with views of the Boston skyline, and a walking path around Ell Pond in the center of town. Three commuter rail stops and the Orange Line at nearby Oak Grove make it an easy base for Boston.
A park around Ell Pond close to downtown Melrose, with a paved walking loop, benches, playing fields and a playground. Ducks and geese gather along the shore, and the path is a favorite for an evening stroll. Combine a lap of the pond with lunch or coffee on nearby Main Street.
A city-owned park on one of the highest hills in Melrose, with a public golf course, wooded trails and a stone memorial tower near the summit. On clear days you can see the Boston skyline. Walkers can use the trails outside golfing areas, and the views are best in the late afternoon.
The eastern edge of the Middlesex Fells Reservation reaches into Melrose, giving residents access to rocky ridges, ponds and miles of marked trails including the Rock Circuit. Trails are rugged, so wear sturdy shoes. Enter from the Melrose side streets near the reservation boundary and carry a trail map.
Built in the early twentieth century as the city's memorial to its veterans, this classical hall on Main Street hosts concerts, theater, community events and the Melrose Symphony Orchestra. Look for the memorial plaques in the lobby. Check the event calendar for shows, as the building is mainly open during performances.
A grand nineteenth century mansion built for a Boston merchant family, now run as a community arts venue with concerts, lectures, readings and small exhibitions. Its parlors and gardens make an elegant setting for events. Visit for a scheduled program, as the house is not open daily.
One of the oldest buildings in Melrose, this early eighteenth century farmhouse is a rare survivor from the time when the area was farmland belonging to Malden. It is cared for by local preservationists. The house opens only on special occasions, but its exterior can be seen from Upham Street.
Main Street between Melrose Memorial Hall and Ell Pond is lined with independent restaurants, bakeries, cafes and shops in brick commercial blocks. It is lively on weekend evenings. Park in the municipal lots behind the storefronts, then walk the length of the street and loop back around the pond.
A small wooded park in the Melrose Highlands with short trails winding past rock outcrops, wetlands and tall trees, a peaceful escape that many visitors never find. It works well for a quick nature walk or birding in spring. Paths can be muddy after rain, so wear waterproof shoes and watch for roots.
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