Even though there are some other bigger cities in Massachusetts like Boston, Brockton is a pretty interesting place that might fly under people’s radar. It has been inhabited since 1649 and was originally named Bridgewater until the town decided on renaming it to Brockton after British general Isaac Brock. A historic place in general, it was known as the “City of Champions” with legendary boxers Rocky Marciano and Marvin Hagler having been born here. Brockton is also home to some interesting records–it was the first city in America to have a mall Santa and the first electrically operated fire station. The town is also host to a bunch of festivals, annually most of which focus on the local music scene. Brockton is a pretty cool place and if you’re in the area check out some of these great things to do around Brockton, Massachusetts.
1. Check out the interesting Brockton Fire Museum
Posted by Brockton Fire Museum on Friday, 4 April 2014
Brockton Fire Museum opened in May 1992 and it was the dream of a local firefighter Bill Donovan. Donovan renovated and preserved an old building to make it look like a Victorian-era fire station. The goal is to preserve the history of the local Brockton firefighters. The museum has thousands of interesting artifacts that date from pre-1900. The museum is not only a cool part of local history but it is a pretty interesting look at what a certain job was like before more advanced technology.
Brockton Fire Museum
Address: 216 N Pearl St Brockton, Massachusetts
Website: Brockton Fire Museum
2. Learn about local history at Brockton Historical Society
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Brockton Historical Society on Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Brockton Historical Society continues on the trend of keeping the history of Brockton alive. The Brockton Historical Society was established in 1969 and has been a pillar of the community to keep the history of Brockton alive and to promote and encourage the people of Brockton to take an interest in their city. The Brockton Historical Society has a lot of interesting pieces in their exhibits that show off objects and goods throughout the history of Brockton. The Brockton Historical Society also operates a lot of other historic places around town so make sure to visit them all.
The Brockton Historical Society
Address: 216 N Pearl St, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: The Brockton Historical Society
3. Take a stroll around Thirty Acre Pond at DW Park
DW Field Park is a favorite place to hang out for Brockton locals and spend some time immersed with nature. There are quite a few pathways around the park that’s good to walk around or bring the dog to run around in. Thirty Acre Pond is a centerpiece of DW Park and certainly makes the park seem a lot bigger and more picturesque. Hang out on a warm summer day and feed the ducks or simply admire the beauty of DW Park.
Thirty Acre Pond DW Park
Address: D W Field Pkwy, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Thirty Acre Pond DW Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Browse through local art at Fuller Craft Museum
Fuller Craft Museum receives over 20,000 people visiting it every year making it one of the most visited museums in Brockton. The Fuller Craft Museum was established in 1946 and mostly contains arts and crafts works from different origins and genres. So far it is the only museum of its kind in New England, making it a pretty cool and unique spot. The museum was sponsored by a local in Brockton to make a center for the arts, and the architectural design is also pretty interesting as the glass and high ceilings allow for tons of natural light to pass through the building.
Fuller Craft Museum
Address: 455 Oak St, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Fuller Craft Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Wed, Fri - Sun: 10am - 5pm; Thu: 10am - 9pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 12 USD
5. Have a nature walk around D.W. Field Park
D.W. Field Park is one of the city’s favorite outdoor spaces and it will surely be one of yours too. Created in 1925 at the request of a local businessman Daniel W Field, D.W. Field Park is a spacious expanse of nature that is right in the center of Brockton. The park was also created by one of America’s most prominent architects Frederick Law Olmstead, who also created the plans for New York’s Central Park. One of the park’s more striking features is the stone tower built on the park’s highest point. D.W. Field Park is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
D.W. Field Park
Address: D W Field E Pkwy, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: D.W. Field Park
Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
6. See the historic Snow Fountain and Clock
The Snow Fountain and Clock is located at the junction of North Main and East Main streets. The Snow Fountain and Clock is a historic landmark as it was given to the city in 1902 by George C Snow who lived nearby in a large house. The monument is found on the National Register of Historic places and is made up of three components: The clock, a water fountain, and a horse trough. The trough is made out granite sourced from nearby Quincy and is now used for a flowerbed.
Snow Fountain and Clock
Address: Brockton, Massachusetts
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Go shopping at Westgate Mall
Westgate Mall is the spot to go if you’re into doing a little shopping. If you’re looking for something specific, there’s probably a store here that can accommodate you and carries something you’re looking for. Most major brands can be found here as well as a plethora of food options available in the food court. Westgate Mall has been around since the 1960s and has been renovated throughout its history, most recently in 2006, so everything is relatively new.
Westgate Mall
Address: 200 Westgate Dr, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Westgate Mall
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)
8. Catch a game at Campanelli Stadium
Campanelli Stadium opened in 2002 and his home to the baseball team The Brockton Rox. The stadium holds about 6000 people and ball games are usually pretty affordable and a pretty fun activity that’s good for the whole family. Festivals and family-oriented activities usually take place before the games that include contests, face painting, balloon artists, and even free food for kids on Monday nights. Campanelli Stadium also hosts concerts and has been a venue for some major artists like Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, and The Jonas Brothers. So if sports aren’t your thing, try catching a concert.
Campanelli Stadium
Address: 1 Feinberg Way, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Campanelli Stadium
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
9. Hit the links at Brockton Country Club
Brockton Country Club is not only Brockton’s most prominent golf club but it is also a piece of history. Founded in 1900, Brockton Country Club is a nine-hole course that has gone through some revisions and redesigns in the last 100+ years. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, Brockton Country Club has some challenges waiting for you on the green. Enjoy the great outdoors and take in some of the majestic oak and pines that line the courses.
Brockton Country Club
Address: 265 Samuel Ave, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Brockton Country Club
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 7am - 6pm
10. Sample the nightlife at Tamboo Bistro
One of Brockton’s best clubs and restaurants is definitely Tamboo Bistro. Enjoy an evening meal of delicious food followed by a couple of drinks then maybe dance the night away. Tamboo Bistro has live DJs that add to the party atmosphere so you can check out some cool music and indulge in some delicious meals served with a modern and contemporary flair.
Tamboo Bistro
Address: 252 Main St, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Tamboo Bistro
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 3pm - 2am (closed on Mon)
11. Check out the Rocky Marciano statue
Rocky Marciano is a local Brockton legend. Known as the only boxer who retired as an undefeated champion, he was the inspiration for Rocky Balboa from the Rocky movies. Marciano was born and raised in Brockton and competed from 1947 to 1955. The Rocky Marciano Statue Committee is committed to keeping the legacy of Rocky Marciano alive in the town of Brockton. The Rocky Marciano statue stands proudly on Forest Avenue in Brockton and is a popular landmark for Brockton locals and boxing enthusiasts alike.
Rocky Marciano Statue
Address: Forest Ave, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
12. Watch a game over a drink at Mickey Malone's Tavern
Posted by Mickey Malone's Tavern on Sunday, 2 August 2015
Mickey Malone’s Tavern operates on the slogan of “Good Food, Good Friends, Good Times” and that is what you’ll get when you come here. If you’re into good food, their menu is large and expansive with mostly classic pub-style food available and you can also expect a long list of drinks. Mickey Malone’s Tavern also has sports going on the TV at pretty much all times so if you’re Boston or New England sports fan you can always catch the Sox, Bruins, or Patriots games at Mickey Malone’s Tavern.
Mickey Malone's Tavern
Address: 347 N Pearl St, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Mickey Malone’s Tavern
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11:30am - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 1am
13. Have fun at Westgate Lanes, Pub & Grill, Arcade & Billiards
If you’re looking for a good night out and not sure where to head, check out Westgate Lanes, Pub & Grill, Arcade & Billiards. If the name doesn’t give it away, the concept here is bowling, food, and games. A perfect place to bring some friends and have a night of fun or a good place to bring the family and enjoy an afternoon of family-friendly fun. Enjoy some pub-style snacks and food while having a blast at Westgate Lanes, Pub & Grill, Arcade & Billiards.
Westgate Lanes, Pub & Grill, Arcade & Billiards
Address: 65 Westgate Dr, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Westgate Lanes, Pub & Grill, Arcade & Billiards
Opening hours: 9am - 11pm (daily)
14. Indulge your sweet tooth at Gowell's Home Made Candy
Posted by Gowell's Home Made Candy on Thursday, 1 August 2019
Not only is Gowell’s Home Made Candy a favorite local establishment but it is also a piece of Brockton’s history. Established by Richard and Evelyn Gowell, they’ve been making candy since 1959. The chocolates and sweets were all made at the one location at 727 North Main Street in Brockton. Gowell’s Home Made Candy prides itself on making quality sweets that are made with care and are brought you freshly made and always delicious.
Gowell's Home Made Candy
Address: 727 N Main St, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Gowell’s Home Made Candy
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
15. Observe local history at South Street Historic District
South Street Historic District is a recognized part of town known for its distinct contribution to the cultural makeup of Brockton. It is a fashionable area with many buildings and houses dating back to the turn of the century to about 1920. Many buildings are in the Colonial-Revival style so simply taking a walk down the street and looking at the historic homes is a nice way to spend a sunny afternoon.There are also a couple of historic churches dating back to the 1850s.
South Street Historic District
Address: South Street Brockton, Massachusetts, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
16. Get a custom shirt at 100 prints at the vault
Come down to the vault and see some of these amazing creative clothing brands. That we have created, and brought to life. Printing, designing, Graphics, and many more services
Posted by 100 Prints at The Vault on Wednesday, 1 August 2018
If you’re looking to get a T-shirt that is unique and fun then 100 prints at the vault is the spot. Specializing in custom-made print T-shirts, 100 prints at the vault can take your order and make you something truly special and unique that won’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking to do bulk orders for your team or for an event, this shop has you covered for that as well.
100 prints at the vault
Address: 100 Main St, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: 100 prints at the vault
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10:30am - 6:30pm; Sat: 12pm - 6:30pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
17. Try some delicious seafood at Tommy Doyle's Pub & Grill
Posted by Tommy Doyle's at Sidelines on Thursday, 8 October 2015
Tommy Doyle’s Pub & Grill serves some of the best seafood in Brockton. New England has some of the best seafood in the United States so you’d be amiss if you didn’t indulge a little authentic and fresh New England style delicacies. Tommy Doyle’s Pub & Grill offers the style and flair of an Irish pub with tons of delicious food options even if you’re not into seafood and don’t forget about their long list of drink options. Bring some friends and have a night out at Tommy Doyle’s Pub & Grill.
Tommy Doyle's Pub & Grill
Address: 37 Oak St Ext, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Tommy Doyle’s Pub & Grill
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 11am - 1am; Thu - Sat: 11am - 2am; Sun: 12pm - 1am
18. Dig into stacks of comics at New England Comics
New England Comics has you covered for all your favorites comic books, graphic novels, card games, and lots of other comic and superhero memorabilia. Head over and browse through the tons and tons of comic books both new and old and pick out something you like. If you’re not into that, they also organize Magic The Gathering tournaments and other card game tournaments as well.
New England Comics
Address: 716A Crescent St, Brockton, MA 02302, United States
Website: New England Comics
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 12pm - 6pm; Wed: 11am - 9pm; Thu: 11am - 8pm; Fri: 11am - 7pm; Sat: 10:30am - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
19. Relish comfort food at Alexander's Family Restaurant
Posted by Alexander's Family Restaurant on Thursday, 4 July 2013
If you’re looking for some classic and delicious comfort food, this is the place to go. After a long day of exploring Brockton why not take a little food break and check out Alexander’s Family Restaurant’s long menu of tasty dishes. They are always affordable and have something for everyone, whether you’re into pasta, pizza, breakfast food, vegetarian fare, or anything else. Alexander’s Family Restaurant guarantees that they have something on their menu that you’ll like.
Alexander's Family Restaurant
Address: 391 Crescent St, Brockton, MA 02302, United States
Website: Alexander’s Family Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 6:30am - 3pm; Fri: 6:30am - 8pm; Sat: 6:30am - 7pm; Sun: 6:30am - 1pm
20. Catch a hockey game at Asiaf Arena
Posted by Asiaf Arena on Tuesday, 8 January 2019
Massachusetts loves its hockey. Head to Asiaf Arena and see a local hockey game or if it is a free-skate day, bring your own pair of skates and hit the ice yourself. The indoor rink is a great way to spend a winter afternoon. Asiaf Arena is a great spot for a family day out or even a cool spot to bring a date.
Asiaf Arena
Address: 702 Belmont St, Brockton, MA 02301, United States
Website: Asiaf Arena
Brockton rocks
Brockton is an interesting place with some long history that dates back to the foundation of Massachusetts as a state. There’s tons of local history as well as some pretty great food and a lively and fun community. Keep this list of things to do handy for fun times in Brockton next tme you’re there.
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