Introduction to Lexington, Massachusetts
Lexington, Massachusetts, in Middlesex county, is 4 miles N of Waltham, Massachusetts (center to center) and 10 miles NW of Boston, Massachusetts. The affluent suburban community is known for being the location of the Battle of Lexington, the initial battle of the American Revolution. It's a popular tourist destination which features numerous historic buildings, houses, monuments and parks with most going back to the Colonial and Revolutionary days. The town center includes numerous restaurants, shops, fine art galleries and the Depot Square.
Lexington History
It was settled in 1642 as the Cambridge Farms parish of Cambridge Massachusetts. Lexington was incorporated as a town in 1713. In the beginning, Lexington was a farming community. Throughout its history the downtown has been an active location. Lexington was the site of the initial battle of the American Revolutionary War. The city prospered by being close to Boston. During the 1960's and 1970's the population significantly increased due to the region's high-tech boom.
Lexington Attractions
- Patriot's Day includes a Paul Revere's ride and a re-enactment of the Battles of Lexington and Concord
- Buckman Tavern was the location where the Minutemen stayed while waiting to learn about British troop movements
- Hancock-Clarke House
- Munroe Tavern includes historic furniture
- The Old Belfry
- The Battle Green is situated in Lexington Centre and was the location of a prominent Revolutionary War battle. It features the well known Minuteman statue
- The Old Depot train station
- The Revolutionary Monument is regarded as the United States oldest war memorial and is the grave site of the colonists who died in the Battle of Lexington
- The National Heritage Museum offers exhibits on a variety of American history topics and popular culture
- Follen Church
- Old Burying Ground
- Minute Man National Historical Park includes sites of the initial battles of the American Revolution
- The Liberty Ride tour take visitors along the historic Battle Road with a guide wearing a historic costume
Lexington Activities
Arlington's Great Meadow is a large, notable acreage. The Willards Woods Conservation Area includes a small forest landscape. The Minute Man Bikeway is a popular bike path. Golfers enjoy the Pine Meadows Golf Course. The nearby White Mountains provides opportunities for skiing, hiking and observing the scenic fall foliage. The North Shore towns offer the closest beach areas. Nearby Boston includes a wide variety of activities and entertainment.
Lexington Transportation
Air travel is provided at Logan International Airport in nearby Boston.