We invite you to join us as we explore Greater Boston with a series of talks and tours. Lots of people and places are working toward MetroFuture's goals.  Our speakers hail from near and far, and address topics of interest and relevance to the region.  Our tours explore some of the area's history, architecture, neighborhoods, green space, renewable energy, arts communities, and waterways - with local guides to answer your questions.

We hope to see you there!

June 14th -  Walking Tour of Downtown Salem 3-5 PM (Rain Date June 21st)

Tour downtown Salem and hear about different planning approaches and strategies to encourage redevelopment and to enliven and reconnect the waterfront to the city.  Salem is a mixed use and fascinating community that possesses a strong historic charm.  Along the tour, learn about the way that historic preservation continues to strengthen the surrounding community.  Spend the last half hour of the tour enjoying Salem’s weekly farmer’s market where home-made products accompany produce, coffee, and cookies.

Commuter Rails leave Boston for Salem approximately every hour from North Station.  For schedule information click here.  The tour will meet at the Salem train station at the kiosk with a map of downtown on it.  The kiosk is located at the bottom of the stairs.

RSVP here.

Download the flyer here.

June 26th - Walking Tour of Blueback Herring River Route  3-4:30 PM

In collaboration with the Inner Core Committee, MetroFuture Walks & Talks will be hosting an afternoon walk along the Blueback Herring River Route in Somerville.  In the fall of 2009 the City of Somerville was awarded a grant by the Massachusetts Environmental Trust to create new opportunities for the community to access and enjoy the Mystic River.  One component was to develop a safe pedestrian route from Foss Park to the Blessing of the Bay boathouse called the Blueback Herring River Route.  We will gather at the Mystic Activity Center for a brief overview of the project and then we will walk along the 0.6 mile route and back (a total of 1.2 miles).  Each participant will receive a copy of the Blueback Herring River Route map as well as a copy of the publication “How to Develop Walking Routes to the Lower Mystic River and its Tributaries: A Tool Kit”.  Please note that portions of the sidewalks along the route are rough and
uneven and may be difficult to navigate in a wheelchair or for people with other mobility difficulties.  This event is made possible with funding provided by the Sustainable Communities grant and will take place rain or shine.

RSVP here.

Download the flyer here.

RESCHEDULED to August 3rd - Tour of Drumlin Farm 10 AM -12:00 PM

Curious about local food production here in Massachusetts?  Interested in visiting a working farm?  Join Friends of MetroFuture at Drumlin Farm in Lincoln!  Explore the farm and field area and hear from a teacher naturalist about the challenges involved in growing and raising food locally and on a large scale.  Learn about the energy, quality of life, and ecological issues surrounding the food industry, including genetically modified food, land use, and management.  Make sure to dress appropriately as there will be some walking on dirt trails outdoors.  This is an all-weather event and it requires a fee of $9.25 per person that goes to Mass Audubon. (Photo Credit: Drumlin Farm).

Directions and Parking Information are here.

RSVP here.

If you have an idea for a tour you think we should look into, contact Amanda Cleveland at acleveland@mapc.org.