Here in Massachusetts, we are lucky enough to live and work in an area rich in history and natural resources. It’s easy to take this for granted sometimes, and we forget how much there is to see and do right here in our own backyard.
But this summer, local attractions may have the advantage over more exotic places. The pandemic has turned tourism on its side, but at least one positive trend has emerged: the desire to seek enjoyment locally. So if you’ve postponed your European trip or canceled that tropical island getaway, fear not. Adventure awaits but one town away…
Have you ever seen a Monster? Odds are, if you drive through Concord Center early on a weekday, or West Concord on a Saturday morning, you probably have. Maybe more than one! Monsters in the Basement is a cycling club based in Concord and has about 200 active members, mostly from Concord and surrounding towns but some from all over the country.
Do you love a beautiful butterfly, a busy honeybee, or an adorable ladybug? What about a spider, or a tiny wasp, or a ground beetle with its snapping jaws? They may look scary, but they won’t hurt you and are important players in your backyard garden.
Spring is here! Warmer days and beautiful flowers call us outside to enjoy the fresh air. And Concord’s restaurants are responding with inviting terraces, refreshing cocktails, and delicious foods to entice us to gather around the table al fresco style! With so many restaurants to choose from, we’ve put together highlights of some of our favorite places to watch the world go by while enjoying a delicious meal. Bon appétit!
A wonderful outcropping of rocking horses has become a bit of a hidden institution in Lincoln, Massachusetts. The unofficial name, Ponyhenge. Little is known about why or how the first horse was placed in the fields, but now more than 48 bucking broncos have joined the herd. Winding down the two-lane country roads with bucolic fields falling to the right and left provides part of the attraction. Signature New England stone walls hem the drive the nearer you get to the henge. If you are looking to unwind and have a bit of fun, just getting to Ponyhenge can provide a sense of calm.
Non-profit groups are at the core of Concord’s beloved cultural and historic heritage. They preserve our history, foster our creativity, educate, inform, and even feed our community. This year, in particular, has been challenging for so many groups as performances had to be cancelled, historic sites closed, and employees and volunteers furloughed. So please remember to include Concord’s non-profit organizations in your holiday giving.
One of the best things about the holidays is the food. From that first bite of turkey to the last slice of pie, gathering around the table with family and friends – and good food – makes this time of year special. We may not be able to gather this year as we have in the past, so we are bringing you seasonal treats and even a few recipes from some of Concord’s favorite chefs to make your holidays special. Whether you choose
to cater for a small group,
dine-in, or take out, Concord’s shops and restaurants have everything you need for that perfect holiday meal.
Our local restaurants understand that chilly nights and quarantine can be a sad combination. So we’ve asked them to share some inspirational cocktails to warm up those ‘pre-winter blues.’ While these libations are certainly delicious to enjoy at home – you may want to venture out to try one in person. Cheers!
Travel books love to include tips on how to experience a place “like a local.” But if you’re lucky enough to be a local, how often do you actually experience the fun that’s right in front of you?
When family or friends come from out of town, we show them the North Bridge, Author’s Ridge, and Walden Pond. We take them to our favorite restaurants and shops, and maybe go canoeing on the river. But why wait for visitors? Even if you’re a townie, Concord’s Visitor Center might surprise you with some of the experiences you can enjoy here.
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