The Best of Lincoln/Concord Area

Visiting the Minute Man National Historic Park is three actual sites. Get acquainted with the Park at the visitors center on the road into Concord. There’s a really great multi media presentation to give you historical perspective. Part two is the Lexington Green where you can walk around and see different houses involved in the events of 1775. The entertaining rangers are sure to tell you a few facts your history class never covered. Photo curtesy of Friends of Minuteman

When traveling, it’s fun to seek out local producers and support the surrounding economy. What a surprise to find a vintner in my own back yard. Kip Kumler, the owner of Turtle Creek Winery, is happy to call himself a ‘garagiste,’ a term given to small producers of less than 2000 cases a year. They have in common an extraordinary passion for the craft of viticulture and winemaking. On Sundays, you can take a tour of the vineyard and have a tasting that takes approximately two hours. Other times might be arranged by contacting them directly. In the meantime, look for the label at local stores and restaurants, and think about ‘Keeping It Local.’

We went to Walden Pond on a hot summer day to see the site of Thoreau’s cabin. The pond is a popular swimming spot, and we were lucky to get a parking space. We hiked the shady half-mile or so from the main beach to the cabin site, and then continued on all around the lake (a bit less than two miles, total), wishing the whole time that we’d brought our bathing suits. The water temperature was perfect; the water itself clear and inviting. If you decide to go, don’t worry if the beach is crowded. Just continue along the path and find yourself a secluded little cove. There are plenty to choose from.

I am so jealous that another ‘burb can lay claim to this gem of a restaurant. It’s serious dining, for a special occasion, but would be a wonderful spot to have in your neighborhood and frequent on a regular basis. The chefs have a philosophy that simple is better and let the seasonal ingredients shine on their own. The decor has the feel of a modern New England Inn, a kind of hip Brahmin vibe. A large blackboard lists the local purveyors, cheeses and farms featured on the menu. The bar is always packed, and it’s not easy to get a reservation, so plan ahead before you visit this thoughtfully edited place to dine.

I am one of many people who harbor a secret fantasy about living and working on a farm. This is the chance for you and your family to experience it first hand, complete with pigs, sheep, horses and cows. Explore nature, hiking trails, birding and the everyday chores of making a farm work. Open year round, there is something different happening every month. See what it takes to make a garden grow and what is in season and should be on your table at the CSA.