
The MBTA is constructing its first new T station in more than 25 years, set to open on the Orange Line this fall. The reason? To grant Bostonians easy access to
Assembly Row, Somerville’s brand-new one-stop shop for outlet shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Of course, the main draw here is the outlets. In total, there will be almost 10 football fields of shopping, featuring heavy hitters like Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Nike, Loft, and J.Crew. Pendleton has even opened its first Massachusetts shop at Assembly Row. But there’s much more to this urban destination than some of the best
shopping around Boston. Here are a few highlights:
1. Sweat
What better way to loosen up for a round of hardcore shopping than a free outdoor yoga class? Instructors from
O2 Yoga host classes in Baxter Riverfront Park on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m.
If yoga is not your speed, take a free boot-camp class instead.
Evolve Bootcamp will whip you into shape Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. Find the class in its meet-up spot under the metal trusses.
2. Redecorate
Who doesn't love a craft fair? Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. through September 13,
Assembled: The Handmade Arts Market showcases arts and crafts by Somerville artists, Etsy artists, and New England’s top creative gurus.
3. Do dinner and a movie
The
AMC Assembly Row theater helps you knock out the dinner-and-a-movie date in one fell swoop, offering a number of onsite dining options (including a wine a cocktail bar) and waiter service during screenings. You can even take in an IMAX film as you relax in the theater’s reclining seats.
Outside the theater, there will soon be a number of restaurants to suit any palate. Right now, the main attraction is
Papagayo is a trendy Mexican kitchen and tequila bar (be sure to try the made-to-order guacamole!). A handful of other restaurants are set to open, including
Earls Kitchen + Bar. Hailing from Canada, this casual grill will serve up comfort food like burgers and pizza. Be sure to check out the
other eateries opening soon.
4. Go block wild with the kids
The
Legoland Discovery Center is a premier spot for children and families. This indoor fun center gets imaginations whirring with Lego recreations of Boston’s buildings, two Lego rides, a 4D cinema, a large, soft play area, and building tips from the experts.
5. Have fun (for free!)
Assembly Row was built with the outdoors in mind, so it features parks and trails along the gorgeous waterfront that are free and open to the general public. Outdoor lounge seating invites picnics and impromptu gatherings with family and friends.
Photos by Sarah McManus