North Weymouth Weymouth, MA

The town of Weymouth was founded in 1622 as “Wessagusset." In 1635, 100 settlers from Weymouth arrived and renamed it Weymouth after their hometown in Britain. North Weymouth thrived as a fishing community until the Industrial Revolution when residents discovered enough bog iron to build a factory, one that has long since closed its gates. Head to nearby Hingham for museums, or drive around town to discover Weymouth's wealth of historic buildings. For a taste of community culture, don't miss events like the annual Weymouth Carnival, the town's summer concert series and Movies on the Beach.

Prepare to set sail for an evening of fine dining or a laid-back lunch of fish and chips at one of North Weymouth's harbor-inspired seafood restaurants or hometown cafes. Take a stroll down Bridge Street, and let the tantalizing aroma of fried fish and sizzling pizza draw you in to one of the charming eateries. Although you don't find much nightlife in this peaceful neighborhood, North Weymouth has plenty of late-night grills where residents go to have a drink. After collecting seashells on the beach, make your way to Kelly's Landing for fish cakes and mac and cheese. This nautically themed restaurant serves up affordable New England seafood in all its glory, and the staff is friendly. This place also has a separate bar area if you only feel like wetting your whistle. The Mooring Bar and Grill doubles as a nightlife establishment with its fine collection of wines, cocktails and craft beer. Stop in for some hot thin-crust pizza, or go for the Reuben or turkey tips for a satisfying meal. Locals come to watch the game while enjoying a late-night drink. For even more fun, swing by for karaoke nights, DJs and live music. For a taste of the high tides, cast your anchor at Kelly's Landing, the best place in Weymouth for fresh seafood. Savor the restaurant's nautical atmosphere as you sample a platter of fried oysters, a bowl of clam chowder or a big lobster steamer. Also check out the healthy eating menu for tempting options, including boiled cod with a few sides of veggies, and order your favorite cocktail from the full bar.

North Weymouth may seem like a remote peninsula, but locals enjoy easy access to South Weyouth and nearby cities. Bridge Street carries you to the Southeast Expressway for a drive to Boston in less than 30 minutes. For a quick drive into town, you can always call Uber or a Weymouth Town Taxi. For a nautical adventure, you can even reach your destination from the water via Harbor Express. The neighborhood has a host of free parking along its wooded streets, creating a low-stress driving environment. Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority buses service the major roads in North Weymouth while the nearby MBTA Commuter Rail stations await at The Landing and East Weymouth, both just south of the neighborhood. Catch a train to take the Greenbush line into Boston. If you choose to navigate the neighborhood by bike, take advantage of the bike trail crossing the Weymouth Fore River. North Weymouth has low traffic, but you don't find any bike lanes. Feel free to explore the neighborhood on foot, keeping in mind that most amenities are fairly spread out.

North Weymouth prides itself on a collection of public parks featuring expansive woodlands, charming waterfronts and plenty of modern amenities. Head to Webb Memorial State Park to reflect as you take a casual stroll along pebbled one-mile loop. The beach has become a favorite for seashell hunting and quiet reflection, and residents often stop by to walk their canine companions. Linger there to do some fishing or just have a picnic for a quiet getaway. Great Esker Park, a glacial ridge of sand and gravel, holds miles of paved walking and biking trails. Take a hike through the woods while bird-watching for osprey and great blue heron, or rent a canoe for a relaxing paddle as you enjoy the views of Whale Island. Don't forget to let your kids have some fun on the playground.

Living in North Weymouth means enjoying a below-average cost of living for the greater Boston area. If you don't wish to buy a home, expect a rental rate of around $1,286 per month. Take a one-way trip to downtown Boston on the bus for $2.10, or grab a beer at one of the local grills for $6 to $7. Gas prices generally hover 11 percent above the national average.

Discover a humble retail scene along Bridge Street to satisfy all your basic needs. North Weymouth is somewhat set apart from the rest of the city on the mainland, so you don't find the trendy boutiques and high-end fashion stores that lie a short drive away in downtown Boston. Most shops stock amenities for locals with a few hobby shops, hardware stores, tailors and florists, a selection that gives the area a genuine small-town feel. Whether you're searching for an engagement ring or a Valentine's Day necklace, stop by Harborlight Jewelers of Weymouth for gorgeous jewelry. The staff work with you to find the perfect option or create a custom piece just how you want it. While you're waiting for your piece, browse a selection of greeting cards, small gifts and souvenirs. Take a short drive down to the Landing to find South Shore Music, a local music shop that offers a variety of music lessons for aspiring musicians of all levels. The collection of used guitars and amps from top brands might keep you browsing for hours. For a few basic groceries, stop by Tedeschi Foods or Weymouth Food Mart. Don't forget to stock up on local produce at the nearby Weymouth Farmers Market.