Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Wakefield, MA

The center of this historic town, ten miles north of Boston, is located along the picturesque shores of a Great Pond.

Lake Quannapowitt, named after Quonopohit (1636-1712), sachem of the Naumkeag people, serves as a vibrant venue for community events, ranging from a premier farmers’ market to outdoor film screenings.

Wakefield has historically boasted a significant Italian-American community, which is evident in the diverse array of Italian eateries and pizzerias within the central Common District.

The town is also renowned for its lively Fourth of July celebrations, attracting tens of thousands of visitors for its century-old parade and spectacular fireworks display.

1. Lake Quannapowitt

Drained by the Saugus River, this 254-acre pond is a distinctive feature of the Wakefield landscape. Lake Quannapowitt is connected to the town center by the Lower Common, positioned right along the water’s edge.

The site features a wooden and granite bandstand, established in 1885, which continues to serve as a significant stage for summer outdoor performances.

On the southwestern shore lies Veterans Field, venue for Wakefield’s esteemed summer farmers’ market. If you are inclined toward an extensive walk, the paved loop that encircles the shore extends approximately 3.6 miles.

Moreover, you may venture onto the water for an hour at a time, as Wakefield Community Boating offers canoe and kayak rentals from spring through fall.

2. Common District

The civic center of Wakefield was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990 and features remarkable architecture along Common St and Main St.

At the Upper Common, visit the Town Hall, which originated in the early 1870s and previously functioned as a school building before adopting its current role in the 1920s.

To the south, you can find the Lucius Beebe Memorial Library, constructed in an elegant Georgian Revival style in 1923, complementing the Post Office, a New Deal project from the 1930s.

One of the most prominent landmarks in the area is the Italianate Flanley’s Block, built in the 1890s and later transformed into a branch for the International Order of Odd Fellows in 1918. Main Street is notable for its dining options, offering a diverse range of cuisines, from deli specialties to Thai and BBQ.

Given Wakefield’s cultural diversity, Italian cuisine is prominent, with establishments such as Massimo’s Ristorante (19 Centre St), Sabatino’s Restaurant (330 Main St), Artichokes (317 Main St), Caffe Italia (21 Water St), and Sonny Noto’s (49 Water St) conveniently within walking distance from each other.

3. Breakheart Reservation

Located along Wakefield’s southeastern border, Breakheart Reservation encompasses over 650 acres of public recreational space, managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

This park spans the upper Saugus River and features rocky hilltops leading to Pearce Lake (comprising Lower and Upper Ponds), artificially created in the 1890s.

The terrain is easily navigable for families, with a wide paved road that loops around the reservation, accessible via Hemlock Rd in Wakefield, guiding visitors to elevated viewpoints with panoramic views of Boston and the surrounding area.

On the northern shore of Pearce Lake, there exists a beach and swimming area, available during the summer months.

4. Col. James Hartshorne House

Constructed as early as 1681, the historic Col. James Hartshorne House, situated adjacent to Lake Quannapowitt, is considered to be the oldest house in the town.

For many years, this structure was known as the Lafayette House, having served as an inn named in honor of the famous general during the early 19th century.

In 1929, the house remained unharmed by a fire that ravaged the other small industrial buildings on the property, and it was subsequently acquired by the town.

The Town of Wakefield continues to own the Col. James Hartshorne House, utilizing proceeds from weddings and various private events to sustain the building’s ongoing conservation.

5. Wakefield Farmers’ Market

Now well into its second decade, Wakefield’s farmers’ market is regarded as the finest within miles, enjoying a delightful location at Veterans Field on Lake Quannapowitt.

The market operates on Saturday mornings, regardless of weather conditions, from mid-June through October. Typically, there are as many as 35 vendors each week, ensuring a unique experience with every visit.

In addition to seasonal produce sourced from local farms, the market offers freshly baked goods, artisanal confectionery, meats, seafood, jams, spices, sauces, houseplants, pet treats, and an extensive array of craft vendors featuring items ranging from ethically sourced Mexican leather goods to handcrafted candles.

The selection of prepared foods and meal kits is exceptional, with offerings that include crepes, empanadas, gyozas, Lebanese dishes, authentic fresh pasta, and gourmet stews.

6. MarketStreet Lynnfield

Located just on the eastern edge of Wakefield, MarketStreet Lynnfield is a sophisticated outdoor shopping center, featuring a blend of national retailers, restaurant chains, and locally-owned boutiques.

MarketStreet Lynnfield is well-organized, with tree-lined walkways, lawns, and flowerbeds. Seasonal events infuse additional vibrancy throughout the year, complemented by a complimentary skating rink in winter.

For a glimpse of the shopping variety, notable stores include the Apple Store, Sephora, Gap, Banana Republic, Pottery Barn, Eddie Bauer, Lush Cosmetics, J. Crew, and Francesco’s, among others.

Dining options encompass Chipotle, Sweetgreen, Yard House, Wahlburgers, Panera, and Legal C Bar, among others.

7. IMAX 3D Theater at Jordan’s Furniture Reading

Situated in the Crossing at Walkers Brook shopping center, near I-95 by Lake Quannapowitt, is a branch of Jordan’s Furniture featuring an expansive IMAX theater that was established in 2004.

Since its inception, the theater has been upgraded to include a dual 4K laser projection system and can seat 500 patrons. The colossal screen measures 80 feet by 60 feet and is enhanced with a 12,000-watt sound system and immersive “butt-kickers” in every one of its “Tempur-Pedic” seats.

Thus, should you wish to enjoy a Hollywood blockbuster, this theater provides an unparalleled experience.

8. Wakefield History Museum

A captivating piece of local heritage in Wakefield is the West Ward School, constructed in the Greek Revival style in 1847.

This two-story edifice functioned in its original capacity until 1998, when it was forced to close due to structural concerns with the second floor.

Subsequently, the Wakefield Historical Society took ownership and restored the building, reopening it as a museum in 2010.

This museum serves as a repository for the society’s collection of artifacts and intriguingly reflects historical context through original blackboards, paneling, and color schemes. Please consult the society’s website for details regarding visiting hours and events.

9. Billy’s Famous Roast Beef

Tender slices of roast beef generously layered onto toasted onion rolls have been a signature dish of the North Shore since shortly after WWII. In the southern Greenwood section of Wakefield, there exists a notable establishment that has been operational for over 30 years.

The quintessential dish to order is the super beef plate, which comes accompanied by a distinctive sauce and a generous portion of fries and onion rings.

Roast beef represents only a fraction of an extensive menu that also includes various regional seafood specialties such as clam strips, haddock, and seasonal lobster rolls.

10. North Ave. Diner

Adjacent to Wakefield Station lies a cozy eatery specializing in comfort foods. North Ave. Diner may be compact, but it offers an extensive breakfast menu brimming with omelets, egg combos served with toast and hand-cut home fries, French toast, Belgian waffles, pancakes, and breakfast burritos.

During weekends, an expanded menu of specials is available, including unique variations of eggs benedict such as Florentine, Irish benedict, and crab cake.

The menu also provides a wide selection for lunch and dinner, featuring items ranging from steak tips to roast beef sandwiches, lobster rolls, baked haddock, pasta dishes, salads, gyros, and subs.

11. BeanStalk Adventure Ropes Course

Another attraction at Jordan’s Furniture is this expansive indoor ropes course, offering challenges for both children and adults.

Participants measuring over 48” (or 42” with an adult) may attempt the BeanStalk Ropes Course, which comprises two levels filled with rope ladders, zigzag beams, crosswalks, spaghetti hand lines, and a zip rail.

The course is thoughtfully designed with multiple routes, allowing visitors to select their own path. Smaller children can explore the BeanSprout Ropes Course, where platforms are less than three feet from the ground, featuring various obstacles aimed at fostering confidence and coordination in younger participants.

12. Kings Dining & Entertainment

Part of a chain boasting numerous locations, this venue at Market Street Lynnfield is aptly described as a family-friendly entertainment center designed for adults.

The focal point at Kings Dining & Entertainment is an elegant 12-lane bowling alley, paired with billiards and an arcade packed with nostalgic games.

From Sunday to Thursday, guests can enjoy enticing specials, including a fixed price for unlimited play across bowling, arcade games, and billiards.

Culinary offerings feature a wide array of shareable platters, alongside burgers, salads, wings, tacos, pizzas, and sandwiches, complemented by an impressive selection of local craft beers and an extensive range of artisanal cocktails.

13. Fourth of July Parade

Wakefield has established itself as a locale for a rich array of festivities in honor of Independence Day.

The most prominent of these is the grand 4th of July Parade, which commenced in 1922 and on which many long-term Wakefield residents view as a rite of passage, drawing nearly 80,000 attendees annually.

This event typically begins at 5 p.m., proceeding along Main Street from Lakeside Office Park to Galvin Middle School.

Earlier in the day, activities include a pet show, fishing derby, a canoe and kayak race, along with whimsical parades featuring doll carriages, bicycles, scooters, and more. As evening approaches, live music graces the Lower Common, culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display.

14. Fridays at the Bandstand

In a cherished annual tradition having spanned over two decades, the Wakefield Summer Band hosts a series of concerts at the bandstand located on the Lower Common.

As indicated by the name, these performances occur on Friday evenings during July and August. The band’s repertoire is diverse, including classical selections, movie soundtracks, rock and pop hits spanning the last 60 years, and Sousa marches.

In case of inclement weather, performances are relocated to the First Parish Congregational Church, adjacent to the common.

15. Movies by the Lake

The bandstand at Lake Quannapowitt serves as the venue for outdoor movie screenings throughout the season, typically held after sunset during July and August.

Generally scheduled on Thursday evenings, Movies by the Lake is a family-oriented event supported by various local businesses and organizations.

Prior to screening, engaging activities often designed for children are typically organized, frequently related to the film of the evening. The programming includes both recent animated films and timeless classics enjoyed by parents.