Things To Do
in Brookline
Brookline, Massachusetts is a leafy suburb just west of Boston, known for its tree-lined streets and village centers. The town blends historic housing with modern shops, cafes, and access to top-tier healthcare and universities. Its walkable neighborhoods, easy transit links, and strong sense of community give visitors a comfortable, urban-suburban vibe.
With proximity to Boston’s cultural scene and a reputation for safety and charm, Brookline becomes a convenient base for exploring Greater Boston.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Coolidge Corner, admiring the charming architecture and unique shops. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Brookline Village and its quaint atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the history.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Brookline Historical Society, where engaging exhibits bring the town's past to life. For lunch, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many diverse restaurants in the area, offering everything from Italian to Thai cuisine. After lunch, take a walk in the beautiful Larz Anderson Park, where you can relax by the pond or explore the vast green spaces.
As the sun sets, head to a local theater for a performance or film screening that showcases the vibrant arts scene in Brookline. Following the show, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table dining, celebrating local ingredients. End your evening with a stroll through the streets, perhaps stopping for a sweet treat at a nearby ice cream shop.
Begin your day with a visit to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, known for its stunning art collection and beautiful courtyard garden. Spend your morning wandering through the galleries, where you can appreciate works from various artists in an enchanting setting. Afterwards, enjoy a light brunch at the museum café, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.
After your cultural morning, head to the nearby Museum of Fine Arts for an afternoon filled with art and history. Take your time exploring the diverse collections, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. As you leave the museum, stop by the museum shop to find a unique souvenir to remember your visit.
Spend your evening at a local jazz club, where you can enjoy live music while sipping on craft cocktails. The ambiance is vibrant, with the sounds of talented musicians filling the air, creating a perfect backdrop for a night out. To conclude your evening, grab dinner at a nearby restaurant that specializes in fusion cuisine, blending flavors from around the world.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🧃Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $2,400-3,600 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $85-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Boston and excellent public transit
- Strong safety and walkable village centers
- High-quality healthcare and educational institutions nearby
- Parks, trees, and a charming neighborhood feel
- Higher cost of living and dining
- Limited nightlife within Brookline itself; more options require a short ride into Boston
- Parking can be challenging in busy village centers during peak times
Places to Visit in Brookline
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque water reservoir with a circular path—perfect for sunrise or golden-hour reflections and wide-angle cityscapes.
Historic streets and brick storefronts provide classic New England curb-appeal and charming architectural details for portrait and street photography.
Art Deco-inspired cinema façade and vibrant signage offer a striking subject for night or daytime urban photography.
Vibrant pedestrian zones with storefronts, benches, and seasonal events—great for candid street photography and colorful storefronts.
Food in Brookline
Brookline Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic New England staple—chilled or warm variations—often served at seafood spots throughout Brookline and nearby Boston neighborhoods.
Must-Try!
A quintessential dessert that pairs well with local cafes and bakeries in Brookline and the greater Boston area.
Creamy New England chowder featuring clams and potatoes, commonly found in casual seafood eateries around Brookline.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local specialties; great for a casual lunch or snack while exploring the area.
Seasonal market featuring local farmers, breads, and artisanal foods; ideal for picking up seasonal produce and treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residential areas appreciate respectful noise levels, especially in evenings; modest behavior in public spaces is valued.
Queue patiently for stairs, elevators, and trains; let passengers exit before boarding; greetings are friendly but typically informal.
Smart-casual is common for nicer restaurants; casual wear is fine for most cafes; dietary requests are usually accommodated with a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Brookline
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 15-20% before tax is customary for good service; smaller tips for slower or minimal service. Bartenders often expect $1-2 per drink.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still handy for small purchases and tips; contactless payments are common in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; layers recommended as temps can vary; plenty of outdoor cafe seating and park strolls.
Warm, sometimes humid, with a lively street scene and outdoor dining; bring sunscreen and a light jacket for evenings.
Crimson and gold foliage surround village centers; perfect for walking tours and photography; pack a light jacket.
Cold with occasional snow; indoor attractions shine—museums, cafes, and theaters are good bets; layers and waterproof boots help.
Brookline at Night
Hiking in Brookline
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails and scenic routes within Brookline and nearby parks for easy-to-moderate hiking and nature walks.
A large, historic botanical garden with extensive trails and seasonal foliage just a short ride away.
Airports
How to reach Brookline by plane.
Boston’s primary international airport located about 8-10 miles from Brookline; quick access via car or public transit (such as the MBTA or rideshare).
A smaller regional option about 40-50 miles from Brookline; useful for some domestic flights but requires longer travel times.
Another regional option about 50-60 miles away; primarily serves domestic routes with occasional seasonal international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Brookline’s family-friendly neighborhoods feature good schools, safe streets, and ample parks.
Close proximity to universities and medical campuses in Boston attracts a diverse, educated, and mobile population.
Established communities with enduring local businesses and neighborhood traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
South of Brookline and in the wider Boston area, baseball culture thrives with local college teams and nearby professional teams.
Common in local recreational leagues and gym facilities; the region has a strong basketball presence.
Popular at parks and youth leagues; Brookline’s green spaces host casual matches and pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brookline.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Brookline eateries offer vegetarian options; look for salads, veggie entrees, and plant-based substitutes; most places are happy to adapt dishes on request.