Acton Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, Acton is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of historical significance and natural beauty. With its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a plethora of outdoor activities, Acton attracts visitors from all over the United States and beyond.

One of the highlights of Acton is its historical landmarks. The Faulkner Homestead, a beautifully preserved 17th-century farmhouse, provides a glimpse into the town's colonial past. History buffs can also explore the Jones Tavern, a former gathering place for American Revolution patriots, where they can learn about the town's role in shaping the nation's history.

For nature enthusiasts, Acton offers an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. The Acton Arboretum is a haven for nature lovers, with its extensive network of walking trails that wind through lush gardens and serene woods. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking or fishing in Nagog Pond, or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque banks of Acton's Assabet River.

Acton is also known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The Discovery Museums, a collection of interactive exhibits designed for children, offer a fun and educational experience for the whole family. The Acton Jazz Café, a popular venue for live music performances, showcases local talent and provides a lively atmosphere for music enthusiasts.

Food lovers will find a diverse culinary scene in Acton. From quaint cafés to upscale restaurants, there is something to satisfy every palate. The town boasts a range of international cuisines, including Italian, Thai, and Mexican, ensuring a delightful dining experience for visitors with varied tastes.

Acton's community spirit is evident in its numerous annual events and festivals. The Acton Farmers Market, held every summer, showcases the region's finest produce and artisanal products. The Acton Boxborough Cultural Council also organizes the Acton Jazz Festival, a celebration of music that brings together talented musicians from different genres.

Alternative names: Settled: 1639Population: 20.9 thous.Area: 20.3 mi²Elevation: 190 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 42°28'41"N, 71°25'58"W

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MassachusettsUnited States

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Acton Top Attractions

Acton Attractions - What to See and Explore

Acton offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Faulkner House, The Discovery Museums, Acton Congregational Church, Memorial Library. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • History museum
Faulkner House
The Faulkner House is the oldest colonial-era structure still standing in Acton, Massachusetts. The Faulkner House was purchased in 1964 by 'Iron Work Farm in Acton, Inc.', a Massachusetts non-profit corporation with a charter "to acquire and preserve the tangible landmarks ...
Specialty museum • Museum • Science museum
The Discovery Museums
Discovery Museum is a hands-on museum for families that blends science, nature, and play, located in Acton, Massachusetts, United States.
Church
Acton Congregational Church
The Acton Congregational Church is a mid-19th century, white clapboard, church building and active congregation in Acton, Massachusetts that become the center of national attention in 2018 when a case decided by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that churches cannot receive public funds to support religious activities.

Library
Memorial Library
Acton Memorial Library is a public library at 486 Main Street in Acton, Massachusetts. In 1889 William Allan Wilde, a Sunday school publisher and philanthropist who was a native of Acton, donated funds to construct the library to memorialize Acton's citizens who served in the American Civil War.
Museum
Jonathan and Simon Hosmer House
The Jonathan and Simon Hosmer House is a historic house at 300 Main Street in Acton, Massachusetts. The 2+1⁄2-story wood-frame house was built in 1760, and is one of Acton's best-preserved colonial-era houses.
Museum • History museum
Jones Tavern
Jones Tavern is a historic tavern at 128 Main Street in Acton, Massachusetts.
42°27'39"N • 71°27'16"W
Exchange Hall
The Exchange Hall is a historic Italianate style hall on Quimby Square, at the intersection of Main and School Streets in the village of South Acton, in Acton, Massachusetts.
42°28'48"N • 71°26'4"W
Acton Arboretum
Garden • Park
Neighbourhood
Acton Centre Historic District
The Acton Centre Historic District encompasses the historic heart of the once-rural, now suburban, town of Acton, Massachusetts.
42°29'7"N • 71°24'58"W
Handworks Gallery of American Crafts
Museum
42°28'58"N • 71°24'57"W
John Robbins House
The John Robbins House is a historic house at 144 Great Road in Acton, Massachusetts. Built in 1800, it is a well-preserved example of a late Georgian/early Federal country house, and was the farmhouse for one of Acton's largest 19th-century farms.

Day trips

Acton – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Acton, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Minute Man Monument (Concord), Nashoba Valley Ski Area (Westford), Edward A. LeLacheur Park (Lowell).

4.2 miE
Historical place, Park, Battlefield
Minute Man Monument, Concord
The Minute Man Monument stands as a timeless emblem of American history in the town of Concord, Massachusetts. This bronze statue, crafted by renowned sculptor Daniel Chester French, commemorates the valiant efforts of the American colonial militia during the opening...
4.5 miN
Winter sport, Park, Ski area
Nashoba Valley Ski Area, Westford
Nestled in the picturesque town of Westford, Massachusetts, the Nashoba Valley Ski Area offers a delightful retreat for winter sports enthusiasts. Established as a local hub for skiing, this charming ski area provides a variety of slopes catering to different skill...
13 milesNE
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Edward A. LeLacheur Park, Lowell
Nestled along the banks of the Merrimack River, Edward A. LeLacheur Park is a beloved stadium located in Lowell, Massachusetts. This modern ballpark, which opened its doors in 1998, has become an integral part of the city's cultural and sports landscape, offering...
13 milesNE
Museum, Art museum, Specialty museum
New England Quilt Museum, Lowell
Nestled in the historic city of Lowell, Massachusetts, the New England Quilt Museum serves as a vibrant center for the celebration of the art of quilting. This specialized art institute is a haven for textile enthusiasts and art lovers alike, offering an intimate look...
12 milesSE
Museum, Art museum
Rose Art Museum, Waltham
The Rose Art Museum is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Waltham, Massachusetts, offering a tranquil retreat for art lovers and casual visitors alike. This esteemed institution is located on the campus of Brandeis University and is renowned for its impressive...