Things To Do
in Waltham
Waltham is a city located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is known for being a center of education, with several renowned universities and research institutions based there. The city has a rich history, with many historic sites and buildings dating back to the 19th century.
Waltham offers a mix of suburban and urban living, with a variety of dining, shopping, and recreational options.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation to learn about Waltham's history. Make sure to grab a breakfast sandwich at a local café before heading out.
After lunch, take a stroll through the beautiful Waltham Common and enjoy the vibrant greenery. Stop by the nearby Watch City Brewing Company for a refreshing drink.
Spend your evening dining at a local restaurant, trying out some delicious New England seafood. If you're in the mood for a little evening entertainment, catch a movie at a nearby theater.
Wake up early and visit the Waltham Riverwalk for a refreshing walk along the Charles River. Don't forget to enjoy the fresh air and listen to the sounds of nature.
Pack a picnic lunch and head to Prospect Hill Park for stunning views of the city. Relaxing in the open spaces is a great way to recharge.
As the day winds down, visit a local pizzeria for a casual dinner. Enjoy some live music at a nearby venue to conclude the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong educational institutions, including Brandeis University and Bentley University.
- Good transportation options, including commuter rail service and proximity to Boston.
- Diverse dining and shopping options that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
- A range of parks and recreational facilities for outdoor activities.
- A stable economy with opportunities in various sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology.
- Higher cost of living compared to some neighboring towns.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours, especially commuting to and from Boston.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Cold winters with significant snowfall, which can be challenging for some residents.
- May experience occasional flooding due to its location along the Charles River.
Best Activities in Waltham
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a leisurely walk through the historical Mount Feake Cemetery, known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Enjoy a scenic stroll or bike ride along the Charles Riverwalk, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding nature.
Explore Prospect Hill Park, a great spot for hiking and picnicking with its wooded trails and panoramic views of the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Waltham with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Waltham
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Boston skyline and surrounding area.
Scenic trails along the Charles River perfect for photography.
Beautiful historic estate with landscaped grounds and gardens for picturesque views.
Food in Waltham
Waltham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Head to Moody's Deli and Bar for their iconic burger, a flavorful creation that perfectly embodies the essence of Waltham's culinary scene. Made with locally sourced ingredients and served with a side of hand-cut fries, this burger is a must-try for visitors.
Must-Try!
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Waltham by indulging in Armenian manti, a traditional dish made of spiced meat wrapped in dough and typically served with yogurt or sour cream. Several local Armenian restaurants, such as Apr Armenian Cuisine, offer this savory delight.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Waltham better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Waltham Farmers' Market to immerse yourself in a diverse array of fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and homemade treats. Open on Saturdays from June through October, this market is an excellent place to sample local flavors and support small-scale food producers.
Join in the excitement of the annual Waltham Food Truck Festival, where a multitude of vendors offer diverse cuisines ranging from classic American fare to international street food. This vibrant event is a fantastic opportunity to taste a wide variety of dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Waltham, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when talking or interacting in public spaces.
Being on time is valued in Waltham, so it's important to be punctual for appointments, meetings, and social events as a sign of respect for others' time.
Waltham is known for its diverse population, so demonstrating openness and respect for different cultures, traditions, and beliefs is highly appreciated.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Waltham with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Waltham
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Waltham, United States, especially in the service industry such as restaurants, bars, and hotels. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service. Some establishments may include a service charge, so it's important to check the bill before tipping.
Payment in Waltham, United States, is commonly made using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Many businesses and restaurants accept major credit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for places that may not accept cards. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also becoming increasingly popular and widely accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Waltham.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Waltham, with moderate temperatures and blooming flowers. The city comes to life with outdoor activities and events.
Summer in Waltham offers warm and sunny weather, making it perfect for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby parks and nature reserves.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Waltham, with the foliage turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The crisp, cool air makes it ideal for scenic walks and drives.
Winter can be cold in Waltham, but it also brings holiday festivities, winter sports, and the chance to experience a charming snowy landscape.
Waltham at Night
Hiking in Waltham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park featuring walking trails around a reservoir, ideal for a leisurely hike.
Offers a variety of walking paths through wooded areas and along the Charles River.
A lesser-known spot with trails that provide a peaceful hiking experience amidst nature.
Includes a walking path around the reservoir, perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
Features walking paths through historical grounds with a variety of trees and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Waltham through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Waltham by plane.
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, about 10 miles east of Waltham, Logan is the primary airport serving the Greater Boston area and offers numerous international and domestic flights.
Situated in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, approximately 80 miles southwest of Waltham, Bradley International is the second-largest airport in New England and serves a variety of international and domestic destinations.
Located in Newark, New Jersey, approximately 210 miles south of Waltham, this major airport serves as a key hub for international flights, particularly to Europe and Asia.
Situated in Queens, New York, about 225 miles south of Waltham, JFK is one of the busiest international airports in the US, with extensive global connections.
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, approximately 300 miles south of Waltham, this airport provides a significant number of international flights and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Waltham, consisting primarily of individuals of European descent.
A significant and growing demographic group in Waltham, representing individuals of Latin American origin.
This group includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, such as Chinese, Indian, and Vietnamese communities.
A demographic group representing individuals of African descent in Waltham.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds, reflecting the city's increasing diversity.
A smaller demographic group in Waltham, consisting of individuals from indigenous backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A fast-paced team sport played on indoor courts where players aim to score by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop.
A widely played team sport where players aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team’s net, primarily using their feet.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams of nine players each, typically played on a diamond-shaped field.
A team sport played on ice, where skaters use sticks to hit a puck into the opponent’s goal.
A fast-paced sport that involves using a stick with a net to carry, pass, and shoot a small ball into the opponent's goal.
An individual or team racing sport that involves moving through water using various swimming strokes.
A popular individual sport that involves running distances for personal fitness, competition, or recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Waltham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Numerous eateries in Waltham offer an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including meat-free versions of local specialties. Restaurants like Red Lentil and The Chateau provide dedicated menus catering to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can find a welcoming environment in Waltham, as many establishments offer gluten-free alternatives. Places like Naked Fish and Brewer's Tap & Table ensure that diners with gluten restrictions can savor delightful meals without compromise.