As many of you know, STA closes out their week with a Living Lab at the end of each week. Even though we are working remotely these days we still find an opportunity to come together via Zoom to share stories, experiences, and design ideas. Given that travel is limited for summer vacations we took the opportunity to share our favorite local destinations.
From Tom:
Portland ME, Beautiful Coastline, amazing historic downtown and great food are what draw me to Portland.
From Nathalia:
Portland, ME is a welcoming city, perfect for those who enjoy being by the ocean and seafood. I recommend the lobster roll from The Highroller. For sweet options you can drive until you reach The Cookie Jar.
From Imran:
The highest waterfall in Massachusetts, Bash Bish Falls is one of the “Wonders of Berkshire County”. Located in the Taconic Mountains in Southwestern MA, Bash Bish Falls attracts a large number of tourists, who can visit it for a good hike, or a relaxing day in the creek. The water for the fall originates in a spring in Mount Washington and eventually flows through to New York State and joins the Hudson river. In 2009, it was considered one of the “Most dangerous tourist attractions in the country”, but with new safety measures, it is a safe and enjoyable destination for a short relaxing trip from Boston.
From Gloria:
My local destination was Quincy Quarries in Quincy, MA
Every once and a while my partner and I take a motorcycle ride to the quarries to get away and enjoy the view. Definitely one of the coolest spots near Boston! After that we head to Wollaston Beach, the best spot there is the ice cream place!
From Joe:
I selected Quincy Quarries because I enjoy the view of the Boston Skyline, and the new appearing “Artwork” that changes from time to time. It is a location that is never the same when you visit the following time. I also enjoy the physical aspect of having to climb up the different rock masses to get to witness the stunning views. It is a nice and semi secret location that not a lot of people know about unless you are local to the area.
From Lindsey:
Time Out Market is an industrial-chic venue in the Fenway/Kenmore area. This dining destination has a handful of eateries, bars, and varied events that encompass the culture that Boston has to offer.
From Felice:
Arlington, MA Nature Walks
Taking a walk after work has become a really important part of my day, and I’ve recently discovered that there are many beautiful natural environments just steps from my home in Arlington, MA! I have two favorite loops, including Mclennan Park, the Arlington Reservoir, Robbins Farm and Menotomy Rocks. A longer loop includes the beautiful Arlington Great Meadows! Here’s more information on the open spaces of Arlington!
From Andy:
The Mystic River Reservation is a publicly owned nature preserve with recreational features located along the Mystic River in the towns of Winchester, Arlington, Medford, Somerville, Everett, and Chelsea in eastern Massachusetts. The reserve is part of the nearly 76-square-mile Mystic River watershed. It was very nice to be able to walk around, take some fresh air, and exercise. I documented some of these walks via Instagram stories and attached two images from my posted videos.
From Derek:
Wompatuck State Park, located in Hingham MA, is a large public recreation area with a vast trail system, open to hikers and bikers. Formerly, Hingham Naval Ammunition Depot Annex, it contains over 100 decommissioned military bunkers from the end of WWII, some of which still remain scattered among the 3,500 acre forest.
From Nathan:
Crane Beach is a beautiful sandy beach on the North Shore between the outlet of the Ipswich and Essex Rivers. The obvious activity here is sunbathing, but there are also beautiful hiking trails through the dunes which afford wonderful views of the ocean and landscape.
From Yingli:
Aashland State Park is a therapeutic park, located in Ashland MA. It’s a great local desitination that has everything you need in a local park. You can have different experiences such as; swimming, barbecuing, picnicking, hiking and kayaking here. You can always find your own private spot for hangouts or play in the water. I would highly recommend a visit!
From David:
I chose to share Block Island, RI through the lens of the small town parade. Families, businesses, and community come together every year during the 4th of July parade, although this year was cancelled due to COVID-19.
-David
