By 4Squares Residential Group in Partnership with Judi 411
Welcome to another segment of 4Squares Residential Group's "A Day Away," where we feature fun places to spend the day across Massachusetts.
In keeping with the North of Medford theme, we feature Hamilton, Massachusetts, a suburban-rural community with a quaint downtown area, picturesque residential neighborhoods, and a beautiful pastoral landscape with plenty of open green space.
Fun Facts about Hamilton
Incorporated in 1793, Hamilton was originally part of Ipswich, which locals referred to as "The Hamlet." The town was named for the American revolutionary Alexander Hamilton, whose portrait became the town seal in 1903. Calm yourselves, super-fans; Mr. Hamilton didn't have any specific association with the town and was most likely chosen for his contributions to American history.
Something to See
Appleton Farms, MA-1A, South Hamilton, MA 01982
Now that spring has sprung and nature is in full bloom, why not stroll through Appleton Farms?
One of the oldest continuously operating farms in America, Appleton Farms was established by Samuel Appleton, who emigrated from Little Waldingfield, England, in 1638. Since then, over nine generations of the Appleton family have worked to preserve the farm and maintain it as a thriving agricultural operation.
In addition to guided tours of the farm, upcoming events include hands-on barnyard experiences like Befriend the Barnyard and in-person cooking adventures like the Farmhouse Culinary Workshop. Or mosey along the wetlands and grasslands across the property and take in the bursts of color around you.
Whatever you choose, stop at the Appleton Farm Store, where you can take a little bit of the farm back home with you. Choose from meat, eggs, local organic food, artisan bakery goods, and pantry staples.
Patton Homestead, 650 Asbury Street, South Hamilton, MA
A must-see for the history buffs in the family, the Patton Homestead is the former home of two famous American generals: General George S. Patton, Jr. and his son, General George S. Patton IV, and now serves as a community gathering place to preserve history, honor veterans, and to welcome community.
Walkers, hikers, and nature-lovers can walk the trails around the Homestead, and birders and kayakers can access the river from the Patton Homestead Boat Ramp.
Music lovers will want to mark their calendars for the upcoming Sunset Music Series on Thursday nights starting April 28th. Grab a blanket and a picnic dinner and enjoy live music and catch a spectacular sunset across the Grand Lawn.
Myopia Polo, 435 Bay Road, South Hamilton, MA
The Kentucky Derby may be too far to travel, but for New Englanders, Myopia Polo offers a unique alternative. One of the oldest active clubs in America, Myopia holds the distinction as one of the five charter members of the United States Polo Association, established in 1891. Gibney Field has historical significance as the scene of the first formal intercollegiate game, with Harvard playing Yale in 1907.
Polo season kicks off May 29th with the Hamilton-Wenham Cup and continues on Sundays throughout the summer and early fall. Movie mavens may recognize the bucolic backdrop from the Polo scenes in the 1967 movie classic, "The Thomas Crown Affair."
All matches are open to the public, although concessions are not open. For more information on admission prices and other details, visit the Myopia website. Don't forget to wear a fancy hat for your fancy day at the match!
Somewhere to Shop
Houndstooth Consignors, 80 Willow Street, Hamilton
Fashion-forward, eco-conscious shoppers will feel right at home at Houndstooth Consignors and their carefully curated, diverse clothing, accessories, and small housewares selections. It will be hard to leave empty-handed once you see the designer bags and jewelry, Le Creuset tea sets, and hand-painted wine glasses, to name of few items.
The 4Squares favorite? Sword & Plough brand bags that incorporate repurposed military surplus into their designs and donate 10% of their profits to veteran organizations.
Follow Houndstooth Consigns on Instagram to stay updated on their Sip and Shop events!
A Monogram Shop, 56 Railroad Avenue, Hamilton, MA
Are you stumped for a Mother's Day gift? Then look no further than A Monogram Shop! Treat mom to a tote or travel bag with her initials so no one can try "borrowing" it!
If Mom's humor is on the salty side, give her a chuckle with a hand-poured candle by Malicious Women, labeled according to moods like "Optimism Sounds Exhausting," "It's Already Been A Day." Or keep it simple with "Thank You" in appreciation for all she does.
Someplace(s) to Eat
Honeycomb, 248 Bay Road, Hamilton, MA
If you're hankering for an afternoon sandwich or coffee and a snack, buzz on over to Honeycomb (pun intended!) to curb your appetite.
Traditional beverages include drip coffee and espresso drinks, or you can get adventurous with a Rhuby-Gingerade or Sweet Pea Spritz in honor of spring. Complement your drink with a gluten-free jam cookie or a birthday cake scone!
Lunchtime options include sandwiches, soups, and salads. Dinner To-Go options and mid-week Pizza Night options are also available.
15 Walnut Tavern, 15 Walnut Road, South Hamilton, MA
If you're looking to take a load off after a full day of touring, 15 Walnut Tavern is the perfect spot for a sit-down meal.
Try the Pork and Kimchi Dumplings or Crab Rangoon Dip for a starter, and then dig into a big old burger, chicken parm sandwich, or fish tacos as your main dish. There's also a sushi menu, and many options can be made vegetarian or gluten-free. Kid menu options include the typical chicken fingers and fries or the good old standby of mac and cheese or buttered noodles.
End your meal on a sweet note with a Flourless Chocolate Torte, Deep Dish Chocolate Cookie, or the Crème Brulee Cheesecake. Or sit back with an 80s-themed libation like Uptown Girl, PYT, All Night Long, and sing until your heart's content (or your teen gives you the eye-roll).
What are some of your favorite towns to visit north of Boston? Showcasing cities throughout Massachusetts is one of our favorite ways to help our readers (and clients!) love the way they live in Medford and beyond.
Drop us a note at Jen@4SquaresRE.com and tell us your hidden gems hangouts!
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