Things To Do
in Westwood
Westwood, Massachusetts is a peaceful suburb just southwest of Boston, known for tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community. The town blends family-friendly neighborhoods with easy access to city amenities, parks, and cultural attractions in nearby Boston and Cambridge. It offers convenient commuter links while retaining a quiet, neighborhood-focused atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy tranquil green spaces, local shops, and quick day trips into historic urban centers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming Westwood Village, enjoying breakfast at a local café. Visit the iconic Rocket Pizza and enjoy a slice of their famous pizza, or stop by a coffee shop for a delicious brew. The vibrant atmosphere of the village will energize you for the day ahead.
Spend the afternoon exploring the UCLA campus, admiring the stunning architecture and art installations. Take a leisurely walk through the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden and appreciate the blend of nature and creativity. Make sure to grab lunch at the UCLA Food Court, which offers a variety of international cuisines.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local theaters to catch a movie or live performance. Enjoy dinner at a trendy Westwood restaurant, where you can indulge in diverse culinary delights. Wind down the evening with a leisurely walk back through Westwood Village, soaking in the lively nightlife.
Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a morning adventure at the nearby Bel Air Hills. The fresh air and scenic views will invigorate you as you navigate the picturesque trails. Don't forget to pack some snacks for a perfect mid-hike break while you soak in the beauty of nature.
After your hike, unwind with a leisurely picnic at the nearby Franklin Canyon Park. With beautiful landscapes and serene areas to relax, it’s the perfect spot to recharge. Consider visiting the reservoir area to see local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Spend your evening at one of Westwood's excellent sushi restaurants, sampling fresh sashimi and nigiri. Afterwards, take a stroll through the area to discover unique shops and perhaps enjoy some gelato for dessert. The ambiance of Westwood at dusk makes for a perfect end to the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍝Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $150-250 |
| 🚇Public transit day pass | $8-14 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient access to Boston’s museums, nightlife, and history
- Strong suburban charm, good schools, and family-friendly amenities
- Abundant green spaces and outdoor activities nearby
- Walkable city centers in Boston and Cambridge excursions
- Limited nightlife within Westwood itself; require a trip to the city
- Commuting to Boston can add travel time during peak hours
- Parking and traffic can be challenging in busy city areas
- Higher costs in nearby urban areas compared to Westwood itself
Places to Visit in Westwood
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic riverside walk with skyline views, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography of boats, rowers, and the city horizon.
Iconic Victorian garden with swan boats, ornate bridges, and colorful landscaping—great for portraits and architectural details.
Bustling blend of ivy-covered campuses, historic buildings, and street life; charming cobblestone paths provide atmospheric urban shots.
Food in Westwood
Westwood Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential summer staple featuring fresh lobster meat in a buttery toasted roll, served chilled with mayo or warm with butter at seaside shacks and city seafood spots.
Must-Try!
Creamy, hearty chowder made with clams, potatoes, and onions; a staple at many Boston-area taverns and seafood eateries.
Slow-cooked beans with molasses and salt pork or bacon; a nod to colonial history, often enjoyed with brown bread in historic taverns.
A classic Italian pastry from the North End, with sweet ricotta filling and a crisp shell; widely available at bakeries and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A year-round market featuring local produce, seafood, cheeses, and prepared foods from regional vendors.
Seasonal market offering local fruits, vegetables, honey, baked goods, and artisanal products from nearby towns.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People in Massachusetts value punctuality and polite conversation. Stand in line patiently, hold doors for others, and greet with a simple hello or good morning.
Tipping is customary; engage in light small talk with store clerks or servers but avoid overly casual remarks in formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Westwood
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. For bars and counter-service, rounding up or a small tip is appreciated. Tipping is customary for services in hospitality and transportation.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy for small vendors, markets, or taxi drivers. Contactless payments are common in most places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm to hot days with high humidity. Outdoor dining and waterfront activities are popular; afternoons can be crowded in popular areas, so plan early visits to attractions.
Peak foliage season with vibrant colors; comfortable temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities; weekends can be busy near popular parks and city centers.
Cold temperatures with possibility of snow; prepare for icy sidewalks and shorter daylight hours. Museums and indoor attractions are appealing and cozy.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor walks, parks, and photography around gardens and harbor areas.
Westwood at Night
Hiking in Westwood
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large and popular hiking area with varied trails, scenic overlooks, and seasonal activities, just a short drive from Westwood.
Riverside trails and wetlands suitable for easy walks and birdwatching, close to suburban towns west of Boston.
Airports
How to reach Westwood by plane.
Major airport serving the Boston area; about 15-25 miles from Westwood, depending on traffic. Accessible by car, taxi, ride-share, or commuter rail connections.
Smaller regional airport offering general aviation services; convenient for private flights and charters near Westwood.
Larger airport in Providence, Rhode Island; about an hour’s drive and useful for international connections or cheaper domestic options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Westwood and surrounding towns attract many families drawn to highly regarded schools and safe neighborhoods.
Professionals commute to Boston for work, attracted by the region’s universities, tech, and healthcare sectors.
Proximity to universities in Boston and Cambridge brings a steady share of students, interns, and researchers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Following the Red Sox in nearby Boston, baseball is a major regional pastime with games and events throughout the season.
Boston hosts teams like the Bruins; hockey culture is prominent in colleges and pro venues around the area.
NBA and college basketball draw large crowds; the region has a strong basketball following and facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Westwood.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Boston-area restaurants clearly label vegetarian options; look for veggie pastas, salads, and plant-based mains. When in doubt, ask for meat-free substitutions or a vegetarian section of the menu.