Welcome to Somerville
Creativity and culture thrive in this hip Boston neighborhood
At first glance, the affluent town of Somerville, with its grand homes and sumptuous details, may appear to be a quiet, elegant neighborhood focused on academic excellence and New England refinement. And it is, indeed, all of these things – as home to the prestigious Tufts University, Somerville is known for rigorous academics, as well as historic significance. After all, this is the spot where George Washington first raised the flag in 1776. But Somerville also sports a streak of playfulness and creativity adored by its artistic residents.
Home to the second-highest number of artists in any city in the United States, Somerville boasts an incredible amount of artistic talent. Perhaps it's the architecturally significant surroundings that offer such strong creative inspiration. This beautiful town offers a stunning array of opulent Victorian styles, the grandeur of Queen Anne architecture, and the glorious decorative touches of Second Empire designs, like stained-glass windows, fanciful ironwork, and bracketed eaves.
What to Love
- A playful, creative vibe
- Eclectic art galleries and festivals
- Star chefs and a thriving foodie scene
- Proximity to Boston and Cambridge
People & Lifestyle
This creative community takes a playful approach to art and culture, as seen in the sculptures and museums around town. Residents enjoy biking through the pretty streets of Somerville and, in fact, the neighborhood has been named the unofficial cycling capital of the Boston area, boasting miles of bike paths and premier bike shops.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Considered at the forefront of Boston’s culinary scene, Somerville offers a world-class dining experience and chef-driven menus. Somerville’s playful spirit is on display again at Aeronaut Brewing Co. This buzzy brewery and taproom offers live music and arcade games, as well as an impressive menu of craft beers. Assembly Row, Somerville’s premier retail and restaurant destination, offers designer brands, first-class dining, movies and entertainment, and luxe amenities. Update your wardrobe at Saks Fifth Avenue and Polo Ralph Lauren, get a blowout and manicure at Soma Aveda Salon and Spa, or enjoy an afternoon matinee at the AMC Theater. The elegant yet relaxed Earls Assembly Row features a seafood-centric menu with modern versions of global cuisine staples, like oysters on the half shell and steak frites.
Things to Do
Somerville’s mischievous nature comes alive with its daring art and festival scene. An elegant, affluent town that doesn’t take itself too seriously, Somerville offers a creative and often humorous take on fine art. For those who groan at the thought of spending hours strolling through cavernous galleries, Somerville offers a solution. The Mµseum, the world’s tiniest art gallery, proves that big ideas can live in small spaces – this petit gallery features New England artists and is available for viewing 24 hours a day. Located on the outside wall at 721/2 Union Square, this micro museum provides artistically significant pieces in an unpretentious, approachable, and adorable setting. The Museum Of Bad Art features art too bad to be ignored. These treasures have been liberated from thrift shops and trash cans around the country and showcase a kitschy blend of artistic passion and lack of technical skill. The carefully curated collection comes with thoughtfully written descriptions, analyses, and comparisons to artistic masters, like Van Gogh and Modigliani, that will have you in absolute stitches.
The innovative Somerville created Marshmallow Fluff over 100 years ago and honors the iconic creation today with the What the Fluff Festival. A madcap celebration of a childhood favorite, the festival features whimsical Fluff-crafting, a lively music scene, Fluff IQ contests, and a decadent lineup of Fluff confections. Somerville eateries open their doors and patios to festival-goers and offer a delectable selection of celebratory dishes.
Schools
