Need a convenient Boston-area getaway with shopping, dining, and outdoor escapes? Head to Burlington! Just 20 minutes northwest of downtown Boston, Burlington offers a mix of upscale retail, scenic walking trails, and a growing tech and food scene. Whether you're exploring conservation areas or enjoying a meal on 3rd Ave, Burlington is a relaxing suburban hub with city-style perks.
Burlington, MA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike and explore at Burlington Landlocked Forest – Over 13 miles of trails through woodland, meadows, and streams.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Francis Wyman House – A 17th-century homestead listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- For Shoppers: Spend a day at Burlington Mall – Shop brand-name stores and enjoy a range of dining options.
- For Couples: Enjoy date night at 3rd Ave – Chic boutiques, wine bars, and chef-driven restaurants in a walkable plaza.
- For Families: Play at Simonds Park – A community favorite with sports fields, splash pad, and picnic spots.
When I like to visit Burlington, MA
The best time to visit Burlington is from May through October, when mild weather makes hiking, shopping, and patio dining most enjoyable. Fall foliage peaks in October, bringing beautiful color to local parks and neighborhoods.
Tips for getting to Burlington, MA
- If you are traveling by car: Burlington is located off I-95/Route 128 and Route 3A, about 20 minutes from Boston or Cambridge.
- By Bus: MBTA bus routes connect Burlington with Alewife Station (Red Line) and nearby towns.
- By Air: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is about 30–35 minutes away by car.
Where I like to stay in Burlington, MA
- Archer Hotel Burlington – Stylish boutique hotel in the 3rd Ave district with a rooftop bar and modern rooms.
- Hilton Garden Inn Boston/Burlington – Convenient location with a pool, restaurant, and shuttle to local attractions.
- Sonesta ES Suites Burlington – Ideal for extended stays, offering full kitchens and complimentary breakfast.
Best Things to Do in Burlington, MA
1. Mary Cummings Park
Mary Cummings Park is a 210-acre public green area in Woburn and Burlington, Massachusetts, the former farm and estate donated in 1930 to the City of Boston by Mary Cummings. The condition for the gift was that it should be kept "forever open as a public pleasure ground". The park is used for kids’ day camps such as "Camp Joy", "Kamp for Kidz" and "Camp Wilderness." It is also used as a public garden for school children known as "Woburn Gardens". The park has several miles of trails open to the public. There is a radio-controlled model airplane on one of the open fields, operated by the local club. Every month on the first Saturday, The Friends of Mary Cummings Park organize a guided nature walk open to everyone.
25 Blanchard Rd, Burlington, MA 01803, Phone: 617-635-4505
2. Burlington Mall
Burlington Mall is a shopping mall in Burlington, Massachusetts, one of the largest malls in the state. It was opened in 1968, and in 2008 was expanded to 1,313,125 square feet of leasable area. It is managed by Simon Property Group. In 2019, the mall was anchored by large department stores Macy's, and Nordstrom, and fashion retailer Primark. Today, Burlington Mall has 180 stores including Apple, Arhaus Furniture, Burberry, J.Crew, lululemon, Michael Kors, Kate Spade New York and Sephora. Large Food Court has something for everyone including Chick-Fil-A and Regina Pizzeria. The mall also has several great sit-down restaurants such as Legal Sea Foods, The Cheesecake Factory, Frank Pepe’s and The Friendly Toast.
75 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA 01803, Phone: 781-272-8668
3. Massage Envy
Located in Wayside shopping mall in Burlington, Massachussets, Massage Envy provides massage, skin care and total body stretch, all integral parts of complete wellness and a healthy lifestyle. Their professional massage or skin care licensed therapists and estheticians will help you look and feel your best. Massage therapy relaxes muscles, relieves stress, boosts energy and positively affects all aspects of person’s life. Professional skin care exposes the skin to healthy nutrients and improves the cellular regeneration process, creating healthy and beautiful skin. Massage Envy performs customized facials with Obagi products, which client can purchase to continue with healthy skin care routine
2 Wayside Rd, Burlington, MA 01803, Phone: 781-270-5555
4. Caffe Nero
Caffe Nero is a worldwide chain of Italian-style cozy cafes that serve all kinds of hot and cold coffee drinks, snacks, light meals, juices and desserts. Their Burlington, Massachusetts shop is located in Burlington Mall and is a popular gathering spot, with cozy sofas and armchairs, walls covered with books and comfortable nooks where people spend hours drinking excellent coffee, munching on a ciabatta sandwich or chocolate croissant, checking their facebook or chatting with friends. The menu includes fresh pastries, great sandwiches, salads and desserts, and besides coffee drinks offers smoothies and fresh juices.
Burlington Mall Road, 75 Middlesex Turnpike space 1025b, Burlington, MA 01803, Phone: 781-265-2650
Where I Like to Eat in Burlington, MA
- Row 34 – Seafood-forward dining with oysters, lobster rolls, and a stellar beer list.
- The Bancroft – Sleek steakhouse known for dry-aged cuts, cocktails, and upscale ambiance.
- Pressed Café – Casual spot for health-conscious fare, smoothies, and creative breakfast options.
My favorite local events:
- Summer Concert Series at the Common – Free outdoor music at the Town Common during warm-weather months.
- Burlington Farmers Market (Seasonal) – Fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items in a community setting.
- Tree Lighting Ceremony (December) – Celebrate the season with lights, carols, and cocoa at the Common.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Burlington, Massachusetts:
- Lexington & Concord (15–20 min) – Revolutionary War sites, museums, and historic walking tours.
- Cambridge (25 min) – Explore Harvard Square, MIT, and vibrant city culture.
- Woburn (10–15 min) – Enjoy Horn Pond’s walking trail or hit the Woburn Bowladrome.
- Boston (25–30 min) – Visit Fenway Park, the Freedom Trail, or the Museum of Fine Arts.
- Winchester (20 min) – Charming town center and trails around the Middlesex Fells Reservation.
Plan Your Trip