Visit one of America’s oldest clock-making companies and explore historic districts along the Mystic River in one of Massachusetts’ smallest cities.
Discover the city of Chelsea across the Mystic River from Boston. Stroll through its charming historic districts and learn about the clock-making industry that gave the city its start.
Visit Chelsea’s largest outdoor space, Mary O’Malley Park. Walk along the Island End River on one side of the park or the Mystic River on the other. Rest in the shade of the iconic willow tree. At the water’s edge check out the beautiful fish sculpture by artist William Wainwright.
Head to Chelsea Square (Winnisimmet Park) in front of Chelsea Police Station. Read or people-watch in this serene spot with plenty of benches, sculptures and a large fountain. View the Chelsea Christmas Tree here.
Explore the Downtown Chelsea Residential Historic District. Near Bellingham Square find the Chelsea Public Library. Walk past quaint red-brick buildings, including the 1909 Shurtleff School building, which takes up an entire city block.
Learn about Chelsea’s maritime history in the Naval Hospital Boston Historic District. Presidents John Quincy Adams and John F. Kennedy were both patients at the hospital, which was opened in 1836. While the five buildings comprising the district are privately owned, admire them from the street and reflect on their fascinating history.
Step back in time at Chelsea Clock Company. Visit one of the largest and oldest remaining American clock making companies. Since 1987, Chelsea Clock Company has been producing clocks of all shapes and sizes for customers around the world.
Drive from Chelsea along the historic Revere Beach Parkway, which has connected the suburbs north of Boston since 1896 and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Boston’s downtown is less than 5 miles (8 kilometers) south. Get to the state’s capital by car in under 15 minutes or take the bus or commuter rail, which both run regularly.