Waltham Travel Guide

Welcome to Waltham, MA, Massachusetts

The city of Waltham has managed to step out of Boston's shadow, and retain its own set of unique characteristics. Located in Massachusetts, approximately 10 mi (16 km) northwest of downtown Boston, this was once a center of the Industrial Revolution. Waltham runs along the Charles River and this advantageous location contributed to economic growth. Settled in 1634 and incorporated in 1738, the industrial influences are still prevalent today. Waltham is nicknamed the Watch City, due to the success of the Waltham Watch Company, which opened in 1854. The company produced an estimated 40 million high-end watches and clocks until 1957. The Waltham Museum houses a large collection of watch memorabilia, as well as steam engines, industrial tools, airplane reproductions and Metz automobile artifacts. For more local history, the Charles River Museum of Industry is a former textile mill circa 1814. Waltham is home to two major higher learning institutions. Brandeis University is a private research university with a strong liberal arts program. The Rose Art Museum is located on campus and displays an impressive array of paintings, ceramics and sculptures, with frequently changing displays. Several opulent mansions of historic significance are located in Waltham. The Gore Place was built for Massachusetts Governor Christopher Gore and displays impressive architecture, manicured gardens and a working farm with sheep and poultry. The Lyman Estate, also known as the Vale, was built in 1793 for Boston merchant Theodore Lyman. The grounds boast impressive English gardens and several greenhouses that sell plants and exotic fruits.