By William P. O'Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds
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| Good Deeds: Norfolk County Destination Locations |
We are in the dog days of summer, and the children, if you have them, are out of school. Like many people around this time of year, you may be looking for something to beat the summer doldrums. I have good news for you: we live in an area that is filled with historic places, wonderful views, and interesting landmarks. There are many activities that can provide entertainment, pleasure, and enjoyment. There are numerous opportunities right here in Norfolk County to enjoy while creating lasting memories with your family and friends.
As a parent and native of Norfolk County, I know how difficult it can be to keep family and friends active and engaged while not breaking the bank. So, I thought this list of budget-friendly activities might be helpful for you and your family if you are out and about the 28 communities that make up Norfolk County.
There is nothing like finding a picturesque beach to beat the summer heat, and some of these locations may do just that for you.
Ames Long Pond
1000 Highland Street, Stoughton, MA
Visit website for details: https://stoughtonma.myrec.com/info/facilities/details.aspx?facilityid=14696
Houghton's Pond Recreation Area
840 Hillside Street, Milton, MA
Visit website for details: https://www.mass.gov/locations/houghtons-pond-recreation-area
Sweatt Beach
5 Woolford Road, Wrentham, MA
Visit website for details: https://wrenthamma.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29842
Looking to catch the big one? These locations offer a serene setting for fishing, whether you are an experienced angler or just looking for a peaceful escape with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Even if you don't have any luck with the fish, you can still take a nice stroll along the water.
Fuller Brook Park
15 Maugus Avenue, Wellesley Hills, MA
Lyman Pond
200 Nahatan Street, Westwood, MA
If fishing is not for you, but you still want to take in the scenic views of Norfolk County while burning a few calories, these locations offer some good trails that will keep you motivated. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, there are a variety of locations where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Norfolk County and stay active.
Adams Farm
999 North Street, Walpole, MA
Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary
293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon, MA
Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Oak Grove Park
444 Exchange Street, Millis, MA
Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary
108 North Street, Norfolk, MA
Open Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Norfolk County has a rich history, and to our benefit, many communities have made the investment to preserve these buildings. These preserved buildings offer a unique glimpse into the past and provide a fascinating educational experience for visitors.
Angle Tree Stone
On the border of North Attleboro and Plainville
accessed on the North Attleboro side at 657 High Street, North Attleboro, MA
Blanchard's Colonial Tavern
98 North Main Street, Avon, MA
Visit website for details: http://www.blanchardstavern.com
Dwight-Derby House
7 Frairy Street, Medfield, MA
Visit website for details: https://www.dwightderbyhouse.org
Fairbanks House
511 East Street, Dedham, MA
Visit website for details: https://fairbankshouse.org
Frederick Law Olmsted Historical Site
99 Warren Street, Brookline, MA
Visit website for details: https://www.nps.gov/frla/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm
Holbrook Historic District
40 Union Street, Holbrook, MA
Jonathan Belcher House
360 North Main Street, Randolph, MA
Medway Historic District
2 Milford Street, Medway, MA
Visit website for details: http://medwayhistoricalsociety.org/hisdists.htm
The F. Holland Day House
93 Day Street, Norwood, MA
Guided tour and ice cream social August 13: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Visit website for details: https://norwoodhistoricalsociety.org/event/day-house-guided-childrens-tour-ice-cream-social-august-13-2023
Sawin Memorial Building
80 Dedham Street, Dover, MA
Visit website for details: http://doverhistoricalsociety.org/sawin.html
Thayer House
786 Washington Street, Braintree, MA
Visit website for details: https://braintreema.gov/408/Sylvanus-Thayer-Birthplace
Weymouth Central Square Historic District
200 Middle Street, East Weymouth, MA
If you are looking for a museum, Norfolk County offers a variety of options to choose from that showcase the county's history through a variety of exhibits and displays. These museums provide a unique opportunity to delve into the rich heritage and culture of Norfolk County.
Ernest A. Taft Jr. Historical Museum
3 Common Street, Bellingham, MA
Open August 9th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Visit website for details: https://www.bellinghamma.org/historical-commission
Franklin Historical Museum
80 West Central Street, Franklin, MA
Open Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Visit website for details: https://www.franklinmuseum1778.com
Maritime Museum
106 South Main Street, Cohasset, MA
Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Visit website for details: https://www.cohassethistoricalsociety.org/maritime-museum
Memorial Hall
4 School Street, Foxborough (Foxboro), MA
Wednesday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Visit website for details: http://www.foxboroughhc.org
Needham History Center and Museum
1147 Central Avenue, Needham, MA
Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Wednesday through Thursday, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Visit website for details: https://needhamhistory.org
Paul Revere Heritage Site
96 Revere Street, Canton, MA
Visit website for details: https://paulreveremuseum.org
U.S.S. Salem
549 South Street, Pier 3, Quincy, MA
Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Visit website for details: https://www.uss-salem.org
I hope you find this list useful and that you take advantage of some of the opportunities that Norfolk County offers as well as make some enduring memories with friends and family. Whether you are interested in outdoor activities like hiking or prefer indoor pursuits such as visiting museums or trying out new hobbies, the communities of Norfolk County have something for everyone. So, go ahead and explore all the exciting options available to you this summer!
