The best things to do in Melrose

“Aside from nearly 50 lanes, this bowling alley has a big pool hall, arcade & eats at a bar/lounge.”

“Franklin Park Zoo is your go-to when the week needs a nature break, with the indoor Tropical Forest, kid-pleasing Children’s Zoo, playful Nature’s Neighborhoods, Franklin Farm, and the seasonal Butterfly Oasis, plus real conservation work that makes each visit feel good for you and the planet.”

From the Quincy newsletter, August 21, 2026

“When the week is doing the most, take the elevator up to View Boston for 360° views, breezy indoor-outdoor decks, and the new Summer Reimagined exhibits that turn the city into a giant, interactive cheat sheet. Cap it with a cocktail at Stratus Rooftop Bar and remember why you live here.”

From the Boston newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Roadrunner keeps concerts easy with a clean, roomy floor, a tiered balcony for actually seeing the stage, and multiple bars so your intermission sprint is optional. Check the calendar for this week, grab a friend, and make a midweek show feel like a small victory.”

From the Somerville newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Historic, small-capacity ballpark, home of the Red Sox & occasional big-name concert venue.”

“Golf course featuring scenic 18-holes and a restaurant for burgers and snacks.”

“Boda Borg Boston is like escape rooms leveled up, with twenty-four Quests and 70+ challenge rooms that mix brainpower and a little athletic hustle. Pick any theme, fail fast, try again, and high-five your way through Area 51, jungle chaos, and game-show glory.”

From the Malden newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Smaller zoo home to an array of animals, including bears & big cats, plus a petting area for kids.”

“Holland Memorial Pool is an easy win this week, a public swimming and wading pool operated by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. A regular 4 to 6 foot deep pool plus a shallow wading pool means simple, splashy relief for big kids and little ones.”

From the Waltham newsletter, August 4, 2026

“WNDR Museum turns Downtown Crossing into your creative playground, with 20 immersive, interactive installations that beg you to poke, stomp, and selfie. Bring the kids or your inner child, then decompress in the WNDR Lounge with light bites, drinks, and local craft beers, and consider your week officially leveled up.”

From the Boston newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Park with a dog area, skate park, murals, bike paths, and event space under an overpass.”

“Swap the same-old plans for Puttshack Boston, where tech-infused mini golf means balls that keep score, interactive challenges, and plenty of friendly trash talk. Grab shareable bites and craft cocktails between holes and make it a Seaport date night or crew hang that actually delivers.”

From the Boston newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Craving a mini escape that doesn't involve a long drive? Simons Theatre at the New England Aquarium throws you into 3D ocean adventures on a giant screen nearly five stories high, with Penguins: A Love Story, Sea Otters: A Wild Family Adventure, and Ocean Dreams bringing big feels and bigger visuals.”

From the Leominster newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Putt Across America turns a quick Boston outing into a coast-to-coast 18-hole journey through iconic landmarks, from roaring waterfalls to Bourbon Street to a lucky spin on the Vegas strip. It's indoors, bright, photo-friendly, and perfect for birthdays, group hangs, or an easy night of friendly trash talk.”