Want to get a taste for life in the ‘burbs? Start by checking out these 7 farmers’ markets in the Boston suburbs.
As you’re touring the Boston suburbs, be sure to dig into these deliciously fun farmers markets. Not only will you snag some great local food but you’ll have a chance to mix and mingle with local families and vendors who have the inside scoop on everything
Which are the best farmers markets in Boston Suburbs?
A staple since 1996, every Saturday more than 30 vendors gather for the Natick Farmers Market. Here, you’ll find everything from traditional Peruvian pastries to microgreens grown in an urban farm. Local makers also set up booths at the market, making this a great place to shop for unique handmade gifts.
The spring and summer market takes place in the Natick Common — so after you shop, plan to spend a little time exploring or letting the kids run around. From there, grab a treat from Park Street Ice Cream. This charming shop opened in 1980 and serves homemade scoops right outside the Common.
On Wednesdays from June to October, the Wayland Farmers Market pops up at Russell’s Garden Center. Once that wraps, Wayland starts its 10-week winter market on Saturdays from January to March.
No matter the season, residents can shop for New England-grown veggies, fresh eggs, artisan baked pastries, seafood and tons of other regional goods. You can even order online and pick up curbside — check the website to see which vendors are offering pre-orders.
From the market, you can easily hop on the Mass Central Rail Trail. This is perfect for a family bike ride or relaxed stroll.
This bustling market rolls into historic Dedham Square on Wednesday afternoons from June to October. Stroll the market and take in the live music while exploring the unique specialty items available, including local honey, soaps made with Cape Cod sea salt, natural pet food, and handmade pottery.
To feel out the town even more, head downtown for dinner. There’s the neighborhood gastropub Oscar’s, Pancho’s Taqueria for authentic Mexican dishes plus Ron’s Gourmet Ice Cream for dessert.
The Belmont Farmers Market is amazingly kid friendly. Each week, there’s live music for all ages and a market-themed storytime from the Belmont Public Library.
The Belmont Farmers Market is held on Thursday afternoons from June to October in the Town Center Parking lot. Besides the entertainment, you’ll see farm-fresh produce and goods from tons of local suppliers. Be sure to pre-order a prepared meal from Valicenti Pasta Farm, Drew’s Stews and More or Tex Mex Eats — they tend to sell out.
To keep exploring, make your way to the Belmont Center. Some of the shops offer discounts on market days with a receipt plus it’s a nice area to wander and picture what life could be like if you call Belmont “home.”
The Wakefield Farmers Market is set on the shores of Lake Quannapowitt — and the backdrop is second to none. The market happens rain or shine on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, from June to October and has been going strong in the community for 13 years. Here, you’ll have your pick of 25 vendors selling homemade pastries, Middle Eastern fare, wine, and coffee, plus special events including live music and henna art.
After, bring the kids to the lakefront Spaulding Playground to swing or run around. It’s a hotspot for local families and a great way to see what weekends could look like post-move.
#6. Melrose Farmers Market
At the Melrose Farmers Market, you can expect local vendors selling a mix of produce, sustainable coffee, locally sourced dumplings and fresh-caught seafood. Don’t want your pup to feel left out of the fun? Look for Bougie Bites Bakery to pick up an all-natural treat for your four-legged friend.
Residents look forward to this market every Thursday from June to October and, in addition to the incredible eats, there’s also live music each week.
Hingham is home to one of the oldest farmers markets in the state. Check out this market on Saturdays from May to November and browse the 35+ vendor booths including produce, fresh-cut flowers, seafood, jams, cheese and more.
To make a day of it, head to the harbor after. You can rent kayaks at the Town Landing for some family fun, or head downtown for a quick bite.
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