C. Devon's Homes
Boutique Luxury
Real Estate Agency
Belmont
Filled with safe streets and beautiful homes, Belmont is one of our favorite towns in Massachusetts. Belmont got its start as a farm town until the revolutionary trolley system brought commerce to the area. You’ll find many bustling businesses, big and small, in Belmont, as well as great schools and quick access to Alewife Station.
Boston.com
Belmont Historical Society
Belmont History
Belmont, Massachusetts, was incorporated in 1859, carved from parts of neighboring towns Watertown, Waltham, and Arlington. Initially a rural community known for its farms, orchards, and nurseries, Belmont attracted wealthy Bostonians seeking a suburban retreat. As the railroad expanded in the late 19th century, Belmont developed into a residential town, drawing families who desired a quieter lifestyle outside the city.
Belmont Center
From chocolates, to pizza, to acupuncture and farmers’ markets, Belmont Center is a beautiful, bustling area with many businesses (large and small) right at your fingertips.
Belmont Center
The Belmont Market
Belmont has a dense suburban feel. While most residents own their homes, there is still a decent blend of rental and ownership. Most people in Belmont are liberal. The town is fairly walkable, with many errands doable on foot or bike. There is decent access to public transportation and some beautiful natural areas for walking, biking, or hiking.
Homes.com
Things to Do in Belmont, MA
Exploring the charming town of Belmont and why residents never want to leave!
Shopping & Dining
- Il Casale - fine, Italian dining that rivals the North End!
The Wellington - American bar with great food, often featuring local or organic ingredients.
My Other Kitchen - a boutique Mediterranean-American restaurant from 11 am - 7:30 pm Tues-Sat.
A Chocolate Dream - find this spot in Belmont Center! Whether you’re looking for fine chocolate sweets, custom creations, or to support a local small business, you won’t want to walk past this sweet treat!
The Toy Shop of Belmont - a small, local toy store that has become a staple in the area for residents for as long as we can remember!
A Chocolate Dream
Libraries & Bookstores
minlib.net
The Belmont Public Library, a cornerstone of the Belmont community, has been serving residents since 1868. Located in the heart of the town, it offers a wide range of resources, from an extensive collection of books and digital media to community programs and events for all ages. The library is a hub for learning, cultural enrichment, and social connection, hosting everything from children's story hours to adult lectures and workshops. With modern amenities and a commitment to fostering a love of reading and lifelong learning, the Belmont Public Library remains an essential institution in the town.
Belmont Books – A beloved independent bookstore offering a wide selection of books, events, and a cozy café.
The Toy Shop of Belmont – Primarily a toy store but also carries a curated selection of children's books.
Historic Homes of Belmont
One notable historical site is the Homer House, saved from demolition by the Belmont Woman’s Club. This grand 19th-century home, with its iconic mansard roof and cupola, has been carefully restored and now offers tours, giving a glimpse into the life and work of Winslow Homer, the famous painter.
Trip Advisor
Dog Spots
While Belmont doesn't have its own dedicated dog park, nearby Watertown offers the Howe Park Off-Leash Area, a fully-fenced space where dogs can roam freely. There's also the Fresh Pond Reservation in nearby Cambridge, featuring a dog-friendly area and scenic walking paths.
C. Devon's Homes
Parks in Belmont
- Joey's Park: A great playground for children, located near Winn Brook School. The park has swings, slides, and climbing structures, offering a fun environment for families.
Concord Avenue Athletic Fields: These fields are used for soccer, lacrosse, and other sports. The surrounding open space is great for recreational activities.
Beaver Brook Park - a unique family destination, with fountains and spray decks, in addition to a full playground, to keep those hot summer days at bay!
Underwood Pool - the nation’s first public swimming pool! Complete with lockers and showers.
Four Square
Water & Swimming
Clay Pit Pond – A scenic pond located near Belmont High School. While it's great for walking and enjoying nature, but it’s NOT a swimming spot.
Clay Pit Pond Reserve
Hikes and Nature
- Parks Beaver Brook Reservation: Located partially in Belmont, this is one of the most scenic parks in the area. It has walking trails, ponds, picnic areas, and beautiful open spaces, making it ideal for family outings, dog walking, and nature lovers.
Belmont Habitat is an amazing spot for hiking as well. Beautiful grounds with plentiful flora, fauna and scenery at this wildlife habitat. Historic buildings make a lovely backdrop for a walk in the woods. And a long standing center for environmental education.
Clay Pit Pond: This serene spot offers trails around the pond, with benches and wildlife-viewing opportunities. It’s a peaceful place to relax and take in nature.
Victory Community Garden: Boasting a rich history as one of the oldest and largest continuously active community gardens, the Belmont Victory Gardens span a sprawling two acres of land, with a total of 137 plots. Apply for your plot ASAP after settling into your new Belmont home!
All Trails
Wix.com
Breweries
While Belmont itself doesn't have a large brewery scene, several excellent breweries are nearby, offering a variety of craft beers. In neighboring Waltham, Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co. is a popular spot, known for its IPAs and expansive taproom. Just a short drive away in Watertown, you’ll find the Arsenal Yards area, home to breweries like Branch Line Brewing and even greater access to craft beer. Cambridge, a short distance east of Belmont, boasts renowned breweries like Cambridge Brewing Company, one of the oldest craft breweries in the area, known for its innovative beers. These nearby spots make Belmont a great launching point for a brewery tour in Greater Boston.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Belmont, MA, is relatively quiet, reflecting its suburban character, but nearby towns offer more vibrant options. Belmont itself is home to a few cozy bars and restaurants that provide a relaxed evening atmosphere. For a livelier scene, residents often head to neighboring Cambridge or Arlington, where they can enjoy trendy bars, live music, and bustling restaurants. Harvard Square and Davis Square, both within a short drive, are hotspots for nightlife, featuring everything from craft cocktail lounges and local pubs to comedy clubs and live performances. Belmont’s proximity to these areas allows for easy access to a broader range of nighttime entertainment.
Wix
Land of a Thousand Hills
Coffee Shops
Starbucks – A familiar coffee chain located on Leonard Street.
Dunkin' – Another popular chain, with a few locations in Belmont.
Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee – Offers ethically sourced coffee with a cozy atmosphere for work or relaxation.
Farms & Farmers' Markets
- Belmont Acres Farm - A family run farm in Belmont
Belmont Farmers' Market - Thursdays, 2:00 - 6:30 (Begins in June and ends Oct. 31). Located in the Belmont Center parking lot.
Wix
Lex250
Town Days & Fireworks
Belmont doesn’t host its own annual fireworks display, but nearby towns and cities often do. For instance:
Boston’s 4th of July Celebration: Many Belmont residents head to the Charles River Esplanade to watch the famous Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on the 4th of July.
Arlington’s Town Day: Just next door to Belmont, Arlington often features a fireworks display during its Town Day celebration in September.
Additionally, Lexington and Cambridge hold fireworks around July 4th and other occasions, making it easy for Belmont residents to enjoy fireworks just a short drive away.
For fireworks within Belmont, they are usually rare and limited to special community celebrations, but nearby cities make up for that with frequent displays!
Transportation
Belmont is conveniently served by the MBTA Commuter Rail:
MBTA Commuter Rail (Fitchburg Line): Belmont has two commuter rail stations, Belmont Center and Waverley, both offering direct access to Boston’s North Station. The Fitchburg Line provides a quick and easy commute to the city, with travel times to Boston ranging from 20-30 minutes, depending on the station.
Alewife Station Parking: Many Belmont residents park at the Alewife Station’s large parking garage and continue their commute via the Red Line into Boston. Alewife also connects with multiple MBTA bus routes, offering additional convenience.
Belmont is well-served by several MBTA bus routes:
MBTA Bus Route 73: This bus connects Belmont Center to Harvard Station in Cambridge, giving residents easy access to the MBTA Red Line and downtown Boston.
MBTA Bus Route 74 and 75: These buses connect Belmont to Alewife Station, another major Red Line station, providing additional public transit options.
Highways:
Route 2: Belmont is located near Route 2, a major highway that provides quick access to Cambridge and Boston, making it ideal for commuters traveling by car.
I-95 (Route 128): Belmont is close to I-95, a major highway circling Boston, providing easy access to Greater Boston and beyond.
Belmont is a bike-friendly town with access to several trails:
Minuteman Bikeway: While the trail officially begins in neighboring Arlington, it's easily accessible for Belmont residents. This popular path connects to Cambridge and is a great option for cyclists who prefer to bike part or all of their commute.
Walking Trails: Belmont offers proximity to beautiful nature areas, including Rock Meadow and Lone Tree Hill, providing opportunities for walking, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Belmont offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient commuting options, making it an attractive choice for those who work in Boston but prefer to live in a quieter town.
Flooding & Flood Insurance
According to data from First Street Foundation’s Flood Factor, Belmont, MA, has a moderate flood risk due to its location and topography. While much of the town sits on higher ground, certain areas, particularly those near streams, ponds, and low-lying regions, face a heightened risk of flooding. With changing climate patterns and the potential for more intense storms, Belmont could see an increase in flood frequency over time. Homeowners in flood-prone areas are encouraged to assess their properties and consider flood insurance to mitigate potential damages. First Street’s data provides valuable insights for residents looking to understand and prepare for flood risks in the community.
