Location:
Framingham is a city in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, located about 20 miles west of downtown Boston. It is situated along the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and Route 9, which provide easy access to the Greater Boston area.
Establishment:
Framingham was first settled in 1650 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1700. It became a city in 2017.
History:
The early history of Framingham was primarily agricultural, with the town later becoming an important stop on the Boston-Worcester Turnpike. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Framingham saw significant industrial development, particularly in the manufacturing of shoes and textiles. Today, the city is a diverse, thriving community with a strong business sector.
Population:
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Framingham has a population of approximately 74,000 residents.
Attractions: Garden in the Woods:
A beautiful botanical garden operated by the New England Wild Flower Society, showcasing native plants in a naturalistic setting. Framingham History Center: A museum dedicated to the history of Framingham, housed in the historic Edgell Memorial Library. Callahan State Park: An 820-acre park with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as areas for picnicking and fishing. Danforth Art Museum at Framingham State University: A museum featuring a diverse collection of American art, with a focus on regional artists.
Events & Festivals:
Framingham Earth Day Festival: An annual event in April celebrating sustainability and environmental awareness, with exhibits, workshops, and entertainment. Concerts on the Green: A summer concert series held on the Framingham Centre Common, featuring live music from local and regional artists.
Accommodation Alternatives – Where to Stay:
Framingham offers several accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and bed & breakfasts. Some choices include the Sheraton Framingham Hotel & Conference Center, Residence Inn Boston Framingham, and Monticello Inn.
Food & Dining – Where to Eat:
Framingham has a diverse array of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. Some popular choices include Aegean Restaurant (Greek cuisine), Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers (brewery and beer hall), and Pho Dakao (Vietnamese cuisine).
Fun Facts:
Framingham is home to the headquarters of several major companies, including Staples, Bose Corporation, and Cumberland Farms. The city is sometimes referred to as the “heart of the Commonwealth” due to its central location in the state of Massachusetts. Framingham has a sister city relationship with Lomonosov, Russia, and Governor Thomas Dudley Park features a sculpture gifted by the Russian city.