Arlington: History, Art and Nature

Arlington brings together cultural and natural attractions to suit different travel plans. A historic house and a museum dedicated to an artist sit alongside a public park, a pond used in part for canoeing and kayaking, and a multi-use path spanning several towns. If you’re looking for a vacation rental in Arlington, you can start by considering whether history and art or outdoor activities should take up more of your itinerary.

History and Art

Built around 1745, the Jason Russell House was the site of one of the largest engagements in the first battle of the American Revolutionary War. Its date of construction and historical role offer two perspectives: it dates to the mid-18th century and is also associated with an engagement from the history of the Revolution. Tours of the Jason Russell House are available without advance reservations.

The Cyrus Dallin Art Museum is located in the historic Jefferson Cutter House in Arlington Center. It is devoted exclusively to the legacy of Cyrus Dallin, a sculptor, educator and advocate for Indigenous rights. Its focus differs from that of the Jason Russell House: here, the legacy of one person is at the center. The museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m., as well as by appointment. You can explore the galleries on your own or take a guided tour.

There is a practical difference to keep in mind when planning your day: tours at the Jason Russell House are available without advance reservations, while the museum has set weekend hours and visits by appointment. If both places are on your list, you can plan your museum visit around the hours listed above.

Outdoors: Park, Water and Path

Menotomy Rocks Park is a public park with 35.5 acres of woodland and walking trails. It also includes a three-acre pond. These two figures refer to different parts of the park: the woodland and walking trails on the one hand, and the pond area on the other. The park is a clearly defined destination in Arlington for walks.

Spy Pond is used in part for recreational activities such as canoeing and kayaking. Unlike the walking trails at Menotomy Rocks Park, the focus here is on water activities. The Minuteman Bike Path is a 10-mile multi-use path that runs through Arlington, Cambridge, Lexington and Bedford.

Choose a Vacation Rental to Suit Your Travel Plans

When looking for a vacation rental in Arlington, start by considering the purpose of your trip: would you like to visit historic sites and a specialized art museum, or spend more time on walking trails, at a pond and enjoying recreational activities on the water? If you’re planning with others, these different themes can help you compare everyone’s interests.

Discover more destinations: Bedford, Malden, Marlborough, Acton, Natick, Newton, Lexington, Concord.

Return to the main travel overview: Middlesex.