#Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Brookline, Massachusetts
Are you looking for a fun and exciting road trip that won't take up your whole day? Look no further than the drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Brookline, Massachusetts. This short and sweet trip is only about 15 minutes, but there are plenty of unexpected places to stop along the way.
Starting in Cambridge, you'll head southwest on Massachusetts Ave, passing by Harvard University and the bustling Central Square. As you continue along this road, you'll pass through the quaint neighborhood of Inman Square before arriving in the heart of East Cambridge. From there, it's a quick jaunt across the Charles River into Brookline. In total, the drive should only take about 15 minutes, but if you take your time and make a few stops along the way, you can make it last as long as you want.
#Brookline, MA - The Halfway Point
Before we dive into the unexpected places to stop along the way, we need to talk about the halfway point of this drive: Brookline, MA. This is a town that's often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbor, Boston, but it has plenty to offer visitors. With beautiful parks, delicious restaurants, and unique shops, Brookline is a great place to spend some time.
If you're in the mood for some outdoor recreation, head to Larz Anderson Park. This beautiful park has walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for kids. You can also explore the Larz Anderson Auto Museum, which has an impressive collection of antique cars and motorcycles. For something a little more low-key, take a stroll through the Brookline Reservoir. This scenic spot has a paved walking path that circles the water, making it a great place for a leisurely afternoon walk.
#1 - The Arnold Arboretum
The Arnold Arboretum is a perfect place to stop for nature lovers and anyone who wants to learn more about the natural world. This 281-acre park is home to over 15,000 plants, including many rare and exotic species. Visitors can explore walking trails through the gardens and enjoy stunning views of Boston. The Arboretum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including guided walks and lectures.
Whether you're a nature lover or not, you'll want to make sure to stop by the Dogwood Cafe. This cozy cafe serves up delicious coffee, pastries, and light meals. Give their avocado toast a try while you're there.
#2 - The Squeaky Beaker Cafe
If you're in the mood for a caffeine boost or a quick snack, make sure to stop by the Squeaky Beaker Cafe. This cozy little cafe offers up a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries. They also have a small, but tasty, selection of breakfast and lunch items.
The best thing to try here is their specialty drinks. The red velvet latte is a popular choice, as is the Nutella latte. Both are rich and decadent and will definitely fill you up for a while.
#3 - The Harvard Museum of Natural History
Located in the heart of Harvard University, the Harvard Museum of Natural History is a must-stop for anyone interested in science and history. This museum has an extensive collection of exhibits, including fossils, minerals, and even meteorites. It's also home to the famous glass flowers exhibit, which showcases thousands of beautifully crafted glass flowers and plants.
While you're in the area, make sure to check out the Border Cafe. This Tex-Mex restaurant is a local favorite and serves up delicious tacos, burritos, and chips and salsa. If you're feeling adventurous, give their famous El Guapo margarita a try.
#4 - The Brookline Booksmith
If you're a book lover, you won't want to miss the Brookline Booksmith. This beloved independent bookstore has been serving the community since 1961 and is a must-stop for anyone who loves to read. They have a huge selection of books, including new releases, classics, and local favorites. They also host a variety of events throughout the year, including author readings and book clubs.
After perusing the books at the Brookline Booksmith, head over to Zaftigs Delicatessen for a delicious Jewish-style meal. This classic deli serves up delicious matzo ball soup, lox and bagels, and pastrami sandwiches. Make sure to save room for a slice of their famous Boston cream pie.
#5 - The Coolidge Corner Theatre
Last, but certainly not least, is the Coolidge Corner Theatre. This independent movie theater has been a Brookline staple since 1933 and is a must-visit for any movie buff. They show a variety of films, including classic movies, indie flicks, and foreign films. They also host special events and screenings throughout the year, including filmmaker Q&A sessions.
To cap off your road trip, head over to Otto Pizza for a delicious slice of pizza. This local chain serves up unique and creative pies, including their famous mashed potato and bacon pizza. Trust us, it's worth the trip.
#Conclusion
There you have it, five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Brookline, Massachusetts. Whether you're a nature lover, a bookworm, or a foodie, there's something for everyone along this short and sweet drive. So, grab your keys and embark on this fun-filled adventure today!