I grew up in the Concord, MA area....so, this DayTrip was a little crazy for me! A great walk down memory lane. Walden Pond is as beautiful as I remember....it's really clear....and not too cold...and it just has this totally peaceful aura. The beach was busy and fun with kids running around....but, many people had walked around the pond and found their own little quiet place...to sunbathe, swim or read.
Henry David Thoreau lived at Walden for 2 years, 2 months and 2 days in the mid-1800's...seeking a life of simplicity. Visitors can hike about 1/2 mile and see the site of his sparse cabin...and a really cool tribute to the famous philosopher...people have left statues (cairns) made from rocks from all around the globe. Moving.
You can swim, hike, fish, operate non-motorized boats in this gorgeous kettle pond...which is really unique.
Concord is really gorgeous and historic...we ended our visit with stops at The North Bridge, where a Revolutionary War battle was fought....The Old Manse where Nathaniel Hawthorne lived...and The Orchard House Museum, home of the Alcotts....where Louisa May Alcott wrote "Little Women"...I used to give tours there when I was in High School...it was fun to return!
We ate lunch at my old favorite haunt...."New London Style Pizza"....another Concord gem you don't want to miss! My son is currently whipping super-balls at my head....must run. Have fun!