One of the best things about the Lakeside Park is its location on the banks of picturesque Lake Quannapowitt (KWAN-ah-POW-it). Where else can you find an office space near Boston in a beautiful park-like setting on a lake?
If you’re looking for something to do on your lunch break, or after work, check out these 6 ways to enjoy the lake.
Lake Quannapowitt Trail
Walk, run or ride your bike around Lake Quannapowitt on this approximately 3.3 mile loop. The mostly flat, paved trail is perfect for all skill levels and is kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible. Dogs are also permitted on the path, provided they are leashed. The trail is open year-round, and is lined with beautiful wildflowers in the spring and summer. It is also the site of many organized races, from 5Ks to marathons.
Water Sports
Lake Quannapowitt is a small lake with easy access for sailing, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding. There is a small boat launch and a sandy area for launching kayaks and canoes, perfect for a quick jaunt after a long day at the office!
Rent a kayak, paddleboard or pedal boat from the Wakefield Boathouse, or learn to sail with the Quannapowitt Yacht Club. In addition to providing sailboats and dinghies for members, the club offers lessons, youth sailing, racing and regional regattas.
Please note that hours and availability for Summer 2021 may be impacted by COVID-19. We recommend checking in with the Wakefield Boathouse or the Quannapowitt Yacht Club before visiting.
Parks
There are three parks around Lake Quannapowitt perfect for playing Frisbee, enjoying a picnic or just relaxing with a book. On the south shore of the lake, there’s the Lower Common with bandstand and Spaulding Playground at Church Street and Lake Avenue, and Veterans Field and Hall Park at Church Street and North Avenue. According to this Los Angeles property management company at the northern end, you’ll find Colonel Connelly Playground and Gertrude Spaulding Park off the Quannapowitt Parkway.
Note that access to some facilities may be limited due to the coronavirus pandemic. Social distancing guidelines are in effect. We recommend researching the parks ahead of time to ensure that they are open before planning your visit.
Hartshorne House
Located on the shores of Lake Quannapowitt, the Colonel James Hartshorne House is a colonial period home built in 1681, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Wakefield’s oldest public building can be rented for weddings, reunions, meetings and other private gatherings, and is also home to several public events, including Wakefield Heritage Day, a Craft Beer Tasting event and Christmas Tea.
Again, hours and availability may be impacted by COVID-19 during Summer 2021. Please contact the Hartshorne House prior to your visit.
WCNA Festival by the Lake
Every year, the Wakefield Center Neighborhood Association holds their annual Festival by the Lake on the second Saturday in June along the southeastern shoreline of Lake Quannapowitt. The event features crafters, artists, local non-profit organizations, live music, children’s activities and great food. Proceeds from the annual event are used for town improvement projects and community events.
This year’s festival has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but WCNA is planning to host the festival in October. As of this posting, the October 2nd date is still pending approval by the town of Wakefield. Be sure to check their website for updates.
Wakefield Farmers Market
The Wakefield Farmers Market is held every Saturday from 9 am to 1pm starting in mid-June through mid-October. Located at Hall Park on Lake Quannapowitt next to Veteran’s Field, the market features freshly picked and produced local produce and other foods. There is also a Kitchen Tent and Farm/Food Education Program, as well as the Wakefield Farmers Market Music Program.
The Farmers Market is still going on this summer, with social distancing guidelines in effect.