Things To Do
in Natick
Natick is a town located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is known for its thriving economy and diverse community. Natick is home to several shopping centers, including the upscale Natick Mall, providing residents with a variety of retail and dining options.
The town also boasts several parks and recreational areas for outdoor activities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk at the Cochituate State Park, enjoying views of the lake. Bring a coffee and savor the tranquility of nature.
Head to Natick Common for lunch at a local café and enjoy some time people-watching. Afterward, explore the shops and boutiques in downtown Natick.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant and take a stroll around the well-lit Natick Common. Perhaps catch a local event or concert if there's one scheduled.
Visit the Natick Historical Society to learn about the town's rich history. Engage with exhibits that showcase the cultural heritage of the area.
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery before heading to the Center for Arts in Natick for a workshop or gallery visit. Experience the vibrant arts scene in the heart of Natick.
Dine at a historic tavern and immerse yourself in the ambiance of the town's past. Consider attending a local theater performance for an entertaining wrap-up to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good school system with high academic standards
- Strong community feel with various local events and activities
- Proximity to Boston, providing access to urban amenities while maintaining a suburban lifestyle
- Low crime rate, contributing to safety and security for residents
- Variety of parks and recreational facilities for outdoor activities
- Higher cost of living compared to other areas in Massachusetts
- Limited public transportation options, making a car essential for commuting
- Somewhat limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Potentially long commute times during peak traffic hours
- Housing market can be competitive and challenging for first-time buyers
Best Activities in Natick
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore over 9 miles of trails through diverse habitats and enjoy bird watching, wildlife observation, and peaceful surroundings.
Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle along the scenic Charles River, enjoying beautiful views and a relaxing outdoor experience.
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with a picnic at this picturesque state park, offering lakeside views and opportunities for swimming and fishing.
Tours
Uncover the best of Natick with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Natick
Visit one of these nice places.
It offers a charming town center with historic buildings and a picturesque common area.
It provides beautiful orchards and scenic views, especially during the fall apple-picking season.
This scenic lake offers opportunities for stunning waterfront photos and peaceful nature views.
Food in Natick
Natick Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy soup loaded with fresh local clams, potatoes, onions, and a touch of smoky bacon. Must-try at Dolphin Seafood or Agostino's
Must-Try!
A New England classic, featuring succulent lobster meat on a buttered, toasted roll. A must-try at Buttercup or Legal Sea Foods
A delectable dessert comprising of sponge cake layered with vanilla custard and topped with a chocolate glaze. Must-try at The Commons Neighborhood Eatery.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Natick better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering an array of fresh produce, local artisanal products, and ready-to-eat treats. Open on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm at 34 Main St, Natick, MA.
Explore an eclectic mix of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, from gourmet burgers to authentic tacos. The trucks assemble near Natick Common on Fridays and during special events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Natick, it is important to be mindful of personal space and to not stand too close to others, especially during conversations or while waiting in line.
It's customary in Natick to greet people with a smile and a polite 'hello' or 'good morning.' Engaging in small talk and being friendly in social interactions is also appreciated.
Natick is a diverse community, and it is important to show respect for people of different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. Embracing diversity and being open-minded is valued.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Natick with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Natick
Ensure a smooth experience
In Natick, tipping is customary in a range of service industries, including restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the bill, though this may vary based on service quality and local customs.
Payment in Natick is primarily cashless, with credit and debit cards widely accepted in most businesses. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly used. It's important to note that some small vendors or local establishments may have a minimum spend requirement for card transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Natick.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Natick, as the weather begins to warm up and the flowers start to bloom. You can expect temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F, and the town comes alive with outdoor events and activities.
Summer is a popular time to visit Natick, with warm temperatures averaging between 70°F and 85°F. The town offers an abundance of outdoor recreational activities, and it's a perfect time to enjoy the nearby lakes and parks.
Fall in Natick is beautiful, with the foliage turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The temperatures range from 50°F to 65°F, and it's a great time to explore the scenic hiking trails and enjoy the fall festivals.
Winter in Natick can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 40°F. If you enjoy winter sports, this is the time to visit, as you can experience activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating in the nearby areas.
Natick at Night
Hiking in Natick
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful reserve offering various trails for hiking, surrounded by diverse wildlife and scenic views.
An expansive forest with a network of trails that provide a peaceful hiking experience amidst nature.
Offers several miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands, perfect for a quiet outdoor escape.
A picturesque area with a trail circling around Heart Pond, ideal for a leisurely hike and enjoying lake views.
Features a variety of trails that loop around the lake, suitable for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying water activities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Natick through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Natick by plane.
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, approximately 20 miles from Natick, Logan International Airport is the primary airport serving the area, offering numerous international flights.
Situated in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, roughly 90 miles from Natick, Bradley International Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Warwick, Rhode Island, around 60 miles from Natick, T.F. Green Airport provides access to various international destinations.
Located in Newark, New Jersey, about 200 miles from Natick, Newark Liberty International Airport is one of the major international airports on the East Coast.
Located in Queens, New York, approximately 215 miles from Natick, JFK is a major international airport serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic White individuals make up the majority of Natick's population.
A significant portion of the population identifies as Asian, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Hispanic or Latino residents represent a growing demographic within Natick.
Black or African American individuals form a smaller, yet important part of the community.
This group includes Native American, Pacific Islander, and individuals identifying with two or more races.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A team sport played on a rectangular court where two teams score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team's hoop.
A team sport played on a rectangular field where two teams attempt to score by advancing the ball into the opposing team's end zone.
A team sport played on a rectangular field where two teams try to score by kicking a ball into the opponent's goal.
A team sport in which players use a stick with a netted pocket to catch, carry, and pass a ball with the intention of scoring goals.
An individual or doubles sport where players use a racket to hit a ball over a net into the opponent's court.
An individual or team water sport that involves the use of the body's propulsion to move through water.
A collection of athletic contests based on running, jumping, and throwing, typically held on an outdoor track and field facility.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams where the objective is to score runs by hitting a pitched ball and running around bases.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Natick.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Natick offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with innovative plant-based options available at places like The Common Kitchen and Deli.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free selections at eateries such as The Cottage Wellesley and Zaftigs Delicatessen.