Welcome to Wellesley
A suburban haven that intertwines tranquil neighborhoods and open land with a charming and historic community
Wellesley is located approximately 10 miles west of downtown Boston. It was first settled in 1630 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1881. The city is best known for its educational institutions, such as Wellesley College, Babson College, and Massachusetts Bay Community College.
The architecture of Wellesley is reflective of its history. The town contains numerous examples of Colonial, Victorian, and Shingle-style houses built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Numerous mansions can be found throughout the town, some created by notable figures such as Charles Goodyear and the Lawrence family.
The town also contains several parks, including the Elm Bank Horticulture Center and Morses Pond Park. The latter is home to the Wellesley Country Club, established in 1899 by Charles Bulfinch and designed by Donald Ross.
What to Love
- The bustling town center
- Beautiful parks and protected outdoor spaces for recreation
- Unique and charming small shops and businesses
Local Lifestyle
The local lifestyle in Wellesley is one of convenience and comfort. With its proximity to Boston, Wellesley offers a peaceful, suburban lifestyle while providing easy access to all the benefits of living in a city. Residents here enjoy a vibrant, community-based culture and proximity to high-end shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
In addition to these amenities, plenty of outdoor activities can be enjoyed in the area. Numerous public parks, conservation areas, and walking trails offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Residents take advantage of the area's excellent schools and convenient public transit systems. With its beautiful neighborhoods, lush green spaces, and small-town charm, Wellesley is an ideal place to call home.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
No visit to Wellesley is complete without stopping at Wasik’s Cheese Shop. This neighborhood favorite offers an array of cheeses from around the world. What makes Wasik’s stand out from other cheese shops is their emphasis on providing customers with unique cheeses. Their cheese is sourced from local, national, and international suppliers.
Linden Square is an upscale retail and dining destination in the heart of town. The square is home to several high-end retailers, such as Williams-Sonoma and Lululemon. The area also features a range of restaurants and a grocery market.
Wellesley locals head to Smith & Wollensky for a stunning night of delicious dining. This high-end steak house is well known for its prime steaks and seafood. The atmosphere here is upscale, with cozy bar seating, a lively lounge, and an airy, inviting dining room. The restaurant features vintage artwork and charming decor, making the space welcoming and comfortable. You’ll find Wellesley’s best Italian restaurant, Alta Strada, just down the street. Founded by chef Michael Schlow, this delectable spot offers small plates and entrees created with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Things to Do
The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon, and more than 30,000 runners from around the world experience the iconic race each year. One of the most famous sections of the course is the stretch that passes through the town of Wellesley. The course rounds a bend and passes through Wellesley College, where thousands of students and Wellesleyan spectators cheer on the runners from the sidelines.
One of the neighborhood’s long-awaited annual traditions is the Wellesley Recreation Summer Concerts. The recreation department performs a series of concerts at the beautiful Wellesley Town Common each summer. The shows feature a variety of musical genres, from jazz to bluegrass, from both local and national acts.
Davis Museum at Wellesley College is an internationally renowned museum of art and culture. Opened in 1993, the museum is a vibrant cultural destination that houses works of art from around the world. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, prints, photography, decorative arts, and textiles.
During the summer, Morses Pond Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in the area. It features several amenities, including a bathhouse, lifeguards, and a concession stand. The grounds are also well maintained, featuring professional landscaping and beautiful gardens.
Whether you have a green thumb or just enjoy being around beautiful plants and flowers, the Massachusetts Horticultural Society’s Garden at Elm Bank provides a haven for gardeners, families, and nature lovers to explore. The garden is situated on 26 acres of land and is home to some of the region's most beautiful and diverse gardens.
Schools
Wellesley families access several top-performing public and private schools, including:
