Forget Boston, Retire To Massachusetts' 'City Of Champions' With Museums, Shops, And Historic Charm

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is inextricably tied to Boston, its capital, thanks largely to the city's rich history as the cradle of the American Revolution. Still, while a city of roughly 675,000 residents might not sound like much to people who live in huge metropolises like New York City, it still may not fit the bill for retirees with little appetite for endless hustle and bustle. With a total population of approximately 106,000 people, Brockton might be a far more attractive place to live in your golden years.

Brockton combines cultural attractions, recreational opportunities, and an interesting past, all while being conveniently located about 20 miles from everything Boston has to offer. What's more, Boston Logan International Airport is the most convenient major gateway to the area, situated about an hour away, depending on traffic. Brockton — not Boston, as most might assume — is known as the City of Champions, a nickname earned thanks to an extraordinary athletic legacy. The city produced heavyweight boxing champion Rocky Marciano, who famously retired undefeated, and started the career of middleweight legend Marvin Hagler.

If you're a bigger fan of the outdoors than sports, Brockton has you covered. One of its greatest gems is D.W. Field Park, a 650-acre landscape dating to 1925 that boasts ponds, scenic roadways, wooded areas, and walking opportunities that promote an active lifestyle. Adjacent to the park is the D.W. Field Golf Course, an 18-hole course open daily that appeals to novices and pros alike and includes a convenient bar and grill. No matter when you visit, these are great places to enjoy Brockton's changing seasons, from summer greenery to winter scenery.  

Retirees who prize lifelong learning will find no shortage of opportunities for enrichment in Brockton, which, much like the town of Andover, is chock-full of interesting museums. Brockton's cultural scene is anchored by the Fuller Craft Museum, where architecture and nature merge seamlessly. Established by geologist and native son Myron Leslie Fuller, this respected institution has evolved into one of New England's premier destinations for contemporary craft, showcasing works in ceramics, wood, glass, metal, fiber, and mixed media. Rotating exhibitions ensure there's often something new to explore, while workshops and educational programming cultivate community engagement. Admission is on a pay-as-you-can basis.

The Brockton Historical Society, which delves into the region's rich past, is worth a visit, but plan accordingly: It's only currently open on the second Wednesday of the month from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and the fourth Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. If you want to disconnect from history for a bit and try your hand at something a little more adventurous, Ames Nowell State Park is a solid spot for fishing or paddling, located just 4 miles from downtown.

When the urge to shop strikes, you can browse the locally owned businesses and specialty shops concentrated downtown. At Campello Antiques, which has restored and sold antiques since 1895, you can choose from interesting period plates, clocks, and more. Art lovers can visit Enso Gallery, a downtown exhibition space connected with the growing arts scene and featured by Brockton Arts. From comedy night to painting and poetry workshops, you can choose from several fun activities. Plus, volunteer opportunities abound through organizations like the local Rotary Club and the Lions Club, whose community projects often support schools and local children. 

Retirees yearning for a destination rich in New England charm will feel right at home in Brockton. Its story stretches back centuries, with the area playing important roles in manufacturing, innovation, and regional development long before it became famous for sports, including as a major hub for shoemaking. Though it was settled in 1700, Brockton didn't become a city until 1881. 

In the South Street Historic District, 20 historic homes grace a block along South Street — a stunning panoply of Queen Anne, Italianate, shingle, mission, Arts and Crafts, and Colonial Revival architecture. Whether you're marveling at Brockton's only mission-style house or the Romanesque South Congregational Church built in 1854, these well-preserved structures will vie for your attention and transport you back to the mid-19th and early 20th centuries. Affording easy access to the Massasoit Rail Trail, the district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. 

Getting around is fairly straightforward. Downtown Brockton serves as a regional transportation hub, where the local transportation center sits adjacent to the commuter rail station, making it easy to explore the region. If you work up an appetite, Joe Angelo's Cafe, which has been in business for over 30 years, offers tasty cuisine and great service, with beautiful murals helping to create a lively setting. For more of an international flair, nosh on bánh mì sandwiches, rice plates, and bowls at N-Gon Viet Subs, where traditional Vietnamese flavors are reimagined with a modern touch. Travel tip: If you want to venture a bit beyond Brockton, an hour's drive away lies the scenic town of Sudbury, delivering historic charm and local eats in spades.