Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Randolph, MA

Randolph is located in a suburban setting on the South Shore, at the base of the Blue Hills, which extend to the north. This community offers abundant outdoor opportunities, with some of the most beloved areas in the Blue Hills Reservation state park in close proximity, including Ponkapoag Pond, recognized for its Atlantic white cedar bog.

During the summer months, visitors can swim in nearby lakes and explore the terrain of the Blue Hills on horseback through various equestrian centers located at the periphery of the state park. The South Shore is also well-known for its bar pizza, a personal pizza style made famous by establishments like Lynwood Café, established in Randolph in 1949 and still thriving today.

1. Blue Hills Reservation

Randolph is located adjacent to a 7,000-acre state park known as the Blue Hills, which features the highest elevation in the Boston region, Great Blue Hill (635 ft), named by early settlers for the bluish hue of its granite.

The Blue Hills Reservation offers an almost infinite array of recreational opportunities, ranging from skiing in the winter to swimming at lakefront beaches in the summer.

For breathtaking vistas, consider taking a brief drive to a trailhead for the rugged Skyline Trail, which traverses the ridge for 7.5 miles, presenting views of downtown Boston and its harbor to the north and northeast.

A useful starting point for your exploration is the reservation’s headquarters in Milton, where trail maps for hiking and mountain biking can be obtained.

2. Ponkapoag Pond

Located in the southern region of the Blue Hills Reservation, Ponkapoag Pond spans 203 acres and features undeveloped shores with the exception of a dock, canoe launch, and the AMC Ponkapoag Camp.

A scenic walking trail, exceeding four miles in length, completely encircles the pond and is supported by three distinct parking areas.

An extensive boardwalk, measuring over 1,000 feet, crosses the pond’s vast Atlantic white cedar bog, which is currently undergoing repairs.

Common catches at Ponkapoag Pond include pickerel, bass, and panfish, while the AMC Ponkapoag Camp provides 20 cabins and two tent sites available for year-round rental.

3. Lynwood Café

Bar-style personal pizza made in 10” pans is a notable specialty of the South Shore, originating from establishments such as Lynwood Café, where cheese and crust extend to the edge of the pan.

This local bar commenced operations in 1949 and utilizes a family recipe along with high-quality local ingredients to create what many consider the archetypal bar pizza.

A variety of over a dozen toppings are available, allowing for countless combinations. Notably, linguiça, a spicy sausage, is a common offering unique to the South Shore, while Boston Baked Beans is a signature topping at Lynwood Café.

4. The Bradley Estate

The Trustees of Reservations oversees this 90-acre estate, which includes woods, meadows, pastures, and formal gardens surrounding an elegant Colonial Revival house.

Much of the estate, including the home, was crafted in 1902 by Charles A. Platt, a key figure in the American Renaissance movement.

The property was gifted to the Trustees of Reservations in 1991 and is open to the public, offering tranquil strolls through a delightful walled garden, parterre, and three miles of wooded trails that lead past the estate’s farm.

The estate’s house is available for private events and serves as the backdrop for a stunning light display during the holiday season.

5. Randolph Center

Situated at the bustling intersection of Route 28 (Main Street) and Route 139, Randolph boasts a relaxed downtown area featuring a range of local shops and several noteworthy attractions.

Among these, Stetson Hall (1842), the Greek Revival former town hall of Randolph, stands as a particularly prominent location and is now utilized as an events venue.

Diverse dining choices are available, from pho to pizza, alongside local establishments offering jewelry, collectibles, and electronics, as well as the esteemed Turner Free Library, established in 1874.

6. Houghton’s Pond Recreation Area

On a warm summer day, Houghton’s Pond in the Blue Hills Reservation is an ideal destination. Covering 24 acres, this kettle hole pond was formed by retreating glaciers at the conclusion of the last Ice Age and is sustained by a spring.

The northern shoreline features an 800-foot sandy beach, complete with lifeguards on duty daily from mid-June through Labor Day.

Enhancements to the recreation area were made during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and a visitor center containing memorabilia from that era is available, along with a refreshment stand listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The pond is stocked with trout for fishing, and additional amenities include trails, grills, picnic tables, a ball field, and a playground for children.

7. Powers Farm

The Town of Randolph acquired this ecologically significant parcel in 2009. Powers Farm, encompassing 22 acres, had been operated by the same family since the 19th century, and its longstanding agricultural practices have preserved the area from invasive plant species.

Visitors can explore this diverse landscape, which includes brooks, successional meadows, a rare Atlantic white cedar swamp, marshlands, and an alfalfa field.

The property features the picturesque Norroway Pond, established over a century ago for ice production and water supply, and today serves as a sanctuary for waterfowl and various wildlife.

8. Daddy’s Dairy

This ice cream mini-chain operates five locations, all within a few minutes of each other on the South Shore.

Across from Powers Farm, the Randolph branch features over 80 ice cream flavors, including unique options such as Cake Batter, Cotton Candy, and Funfetti Cake.

In addition, over 200 soft serve flavors are available, ranging from Almond Joy to White Chocolate Mousse, complemented by an extensive selection of toppings, including fresh fruit, nuts, broken cones, and popping boba.

Even dogs can enjoy ice cream here, and a variety of freshly made ice cream cakes and pies are available in the freezers.

9. Central Rock Gym

Located at the edge of the Blue Hill Reservation, Central Rock Gym features an expansive indoor climbing facility with 18,000 square feet of climbing terrain, a 45-foot lead wall, 3,000 square feet for bouldering, and 100 top rope and lead stations.

Beginners, including children, can learn the fundamentals through designated hour-long sessions led by staff.

For solo climbers, auto belays are available after a brief orientation. Climbers with a partner can participate in top-roping after an hour-long class focused on knot-tying and belaying techniques.

Afterward, climbers can enjoy the gym with a day pass and may enroll in various advanced classes.

10. Jonathan Belcher House

Located just north of downtown Randolph, this stately Federal-style residence was constructed in 1806 by Jonathan Belcher (1767-1869) and his spouse, Abigail.

The couple’s descendants later expanded the home, before their great-granddaughter, Abigail Tower Tarbell, donated the property in 1911 to what is now the Randolph Women’s Club.

The house periodically hosts yard sales and an annual holiday fair; opposite the residence, Park Street leads to Belcher Park, which features a picturesque pond and various amenities such as a climbing wall, ropes course, basketball courts, and a soccer field.

11. Blazing Saddles Equestrian Center

One of the most enjoyable methods to explore the Blue Hills Reservation is via horseback, and those without their own horse can visit the equestrian center/stables located in Randolph.

Blazing Saddles features a spacious farmyard and an indoor riding arena, welcoming younger children for ten-minute hand-guided rides led by trained staff.

Trail rides in the Blue Hills Reservation are offered for riders aged eight and above, ranging from 30 minutes to one hour, and cater to novice equestrians.

12. Blue Hills Ski Area

Located on the west face of Great Blue Hill, the ski area, which opened in 1950, has successfully guided several generations in snow sports.

Covering 60 acres, the Blue Hill Ski Area features eight runs, four lifts, and a vertical drop just exceeding 300 feet. Snow-making capabilities have been progressively enhanced annually, enabling a skiing season that extends throughout the winter.

The facility offers skiing programs tailored for all skill levels and ages, as well as personalized lessons available for more in-depth instruction. Moreover, a range of daily equipment rental packages is offered.

13. Imagination Station

Randolph’s largest community playground has been meticulously designed with various themes, including an enchanted forest, a prehistoric jungle populated by dinosaurs, and a savanna with lions and cheetahs.

The playground is fully accessible and features ample seating for adult supervision. Additional amenities include a sound playground for aspiring musicians, a splash pad open during the summer months, and a shaded pavilion for picnicking.

14. Ponkapoag Golf Course

This 36-hole municipal golf facility, designed by renowned course architect Donald Ross, is situated on the western shore of Ponkapoag Pond.

Both Course #1 and Course #2 are characterized by rolling terrain that includes various elevations.

The picturesque wooded surroundings are a significant draw, and during winter, the entire area transforms into a park designated for cross-country skiing. Amenities such as a pro shop, snack bar, putting green, and driving range are available at no additional cost.

15. Showcase Cinema De Lux Randolph

Located two levels underground, this expansive 16-screen multiplex opened its doors in 1998.

Showcase Cinema De Lux Randolph offers tiered seating along with luxury recliners in all theaters, in addition to high-quality Dolby Surround Sound and large viewing screens. The facility includes IMAX and 3D viewing options, as well as a 4D theater equipped with moving seats and atmospheric effects.

The addition of the Lux level in the 2000s allows for food and alcohol service, while Bargain Tuesdays feature all-day discounts, which are complemented by additional savings for “Starpass” members.