Location: Quincy is located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, approximately 10 miles south of Boston. It is part of the Boston metropolitan area and lies along the coast of Massachusetts Bay.
Establishment: Quincy was originally settled in 1628 and was incorporated as a town in 1792. It was named in honor of Colonel John Quincy, the grandfather of Abigail Adams, wife of President John Adams. Quincy became a city in 1888.
History: Quincy played a significant role in the early history of the United States, being the birthplace of two U.S. Presidents, John Adams and John Quincy Adams, as well as statesman John Hancock. The city was also a center of granite production and shipbuilding, with the Fore River Shipyard being one of the most prominent shipyards in the country.
Population: Quincy has a population of approximately 100,000 residents, making it the eighth-largest city in Massachusetts.
Attractions:
Adams National Historical Park: This park is the birthplace of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, featuring their birth homes and the “Old House at Peace Field.”
United First Parish Church: A historic church where John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and their wives are entombed in the family crypt.
Quincy Quarries Reservation: A recreational park featuring the remnants of a historic granite quarry, with rock climbing and hiking opportunities.
Marina Bay: A waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and beautiful views of the Boston skyline.
Events & Festivals:
Flag Day Parade: An annual event celebrating the city’s strong ties to American history, featuring a parade and fireworks display.
Quincy August Moon Festival: A cultural festival celebrating Asian traditions, with food, entertainment, and activities for all ages.
Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting: An annual holiday celebration featuring a festive parade and tree lighting ceremony in Quincy Center.
Accommodation Alternatives: Quincy offers various accommodation options, including hotels and short-term rentals. Some popular choices include the Best Western Adams Inn, the Marriott Boston Quincy, and the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Quincy.
Food & Dining: Quincy boasts a diverse dining scene, offering a range of cuisines from American to international fare. Some popular options include the Fat Cat, known for its comfort food and creative cocktails; Alba, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes; and Fuji at WoC, a modern Japanese restaurant.
Fun Facts:
Quincy is known as the “City of Presidents” due to being the birthplace of two U.S. Presidents.
The city is nicknamed “The Granite City” because of its extensive granite quarries, which supplied granite for many significant buildings and monuments in the 19th century.
The first commercial railroad in the United States, the Granite Railway, was built in Quincy in 1826 to transport granite from the quarries to the Neponset River.
With its rich history, beautiful coastal location, and diverse cultural offerings, Quincy is a must-visit destination for those exploring the Boston area.