Visiting Brookline

  1. Things to Do Anytime
  2.  Seasonal Things to Do
  3.  Shop-Dine-Stay
  4.   About
  1. Welcome to Brookline! We offer visitors a charming mix of vibrant urban life and attractive suburban amenities. Brookline is home to a variety of shops, restaurants and cultural institutions.

    Arts, Culture and Recreation are always just around the corner:
    Brookline is home to two National Park Sites including the JFK Birthplace and the of home of Frederick Law Olmsted, who is considered to be the father of American Landscape Architecture and the nation's foremost park maker. The Larz Anderson Auto Museum houses America's oldest car collection and features a variety of educational programs, exhibits and events throughout the year. Check out ArtsBrookline Events.
    Lars Anderson Park, Photo by Debra Rose
    Photo courtesy of Debra Rose
  1. Recreation:
    Despite its urban character, Brookline has an expansive system of parks and open space ranging from small playgrounds to large historic landscapes, including a portion of the Emerald Necklace, one of Olmsted's finest achievements.

    Throughout the year, Town Staff, along with representatives from a variety of historic, cultural groups organize a series of Walking Tours providing opportunities to learn more about many of Brookline's most notable residents, landmarks and architecture. Brookline is also part of Hubway, the nation's only regional bike share program.

    Brookline is a very walk-able community; and walking the streets is perhaps the best way to discover all the Town has to offer. Start your day by strolling the charming streets of Brookline Village and then head up Harvard St. to Coolidge Corner to do some shopping and to grab some lunch. Spend the afternoon observing the historic architecture along Beacon Street before treating yourself to a world-class dinner at one of the many popular restaurants in Washington Square.
    Longwood Mall, Photo by Martha Sibert
    Photo courtesy of Martha Sibert
  1. Local Attractions:
    • The Beacon Street boulevard, developed according to plans by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1887-88
    • Vibrant shopping districts in Coolidge Corner, Washington Square, Brookline Village, Chestnut Hill/Putterham Circle, JFK Crossing, and St. Mary’s Station.
    • The Larz Anderson Auto Museum at Larz Anderson Park.
    • The Putterham School, a one-room schoolhouse also at Larz Anderson Park
    • The Edward Devotion House, a colonial home in Coolidge Corner managed by the Brookline Historical Society.
    • Hall’s Pond Sanctuary in Amory Park
    • The Coolidge Corner Theatre, an independent movie theater since 1933.
    • Three cemeteries founded in the 18th and 19th centuries: The Old Burying Ground (1717); Holyhood Cemetery (1857); and Walnut Hills Cemetery (1875).