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A twelve-mile long river wetlands conservation area, in two major parcels, stretching from the towns of Billerica (downstream) to Wayland (upstream), along the Concord and Sudbury rivers. Considered by some ornithologists among the best inland bird observatories in the state. The original 250-acre Concord parcel that started the sanctuary has long been known as the "Great Meadows," and was donated by Concord resident Samuel Hoar in 1944. There are several trails for daytime wildlife observation and walks, with trail-side observation blinds and an observation tower. The Dike Trail, a 1.7-mile loop circles one of the marsh pools. In winter, as snow permits: walking, snowshowing and cross-country skiing. The federal Fish and Wildlife Service manages the refuge.
The Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is a 12-mile-long (19 km) river wetlands conservation area, in two major parcels, stretching from the towns of Billerica, Massachusetts (downstream) to Wayland, Massachusetts (upstream), along the Concord River and Sudbury River.
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130 acres alongside the banks of the Concord River. This area was once belonged to William Brewster, the Mass Audubon society's first president and an early ornithologist. The wetlands here attract plentiful ducks, herons, bluebirds, and woodpeckers, and other breeding and migrating water birds. Limited parking, no restrooms.
Wheeler-Minot Farmhouse
Built around 1730 by John Wheeler, this 2½-story wooden home is the birthplace of Henry David Thoreau in 1817. Over the years the building has seen extensive modifications, and after a non-profit purchase in 1995, underwent comprehensive restorative work. The 20 acres of grounds are free and open year-round. House visits by guided tour only. During the warmer months "saunters" of the grounds can be organized, and writers retreats are offered as well.
Visit the final resting place of Nathaniel Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry David Thoreau. The largest of Concord's municipal cemeteries; not related to the much more famous Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Sleepy Hollow, New York.
Built in 1770 by the Reverend William Emerson. Later residents include his grandson Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Nathanial Hawthorne. Period furnishings and family memorabilia from the Emerson, Ripley and Hawthorne families. The grounds border the Concord River, and the Old North Bridge. Owned by The Trustees of Reservations non-profit.