Norwood, MA, Travel Review

On the Road in New England: Downtown Norwood, Mass

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Article and photo by Eric H. (posted June 9, 2007)

(NORWOOD, MA, NEW ENGLAND USA) -- A wise man once

said, "People who live in Norwood never want to leave Norwood." We're not sure who that wise man was as he kept on talking and talking at the local convenience store without identifying himself, but the point was well-taken: the southwest suburban Boston Town of Norwood is a place that has, in the

past, just looked like another town to passersby, but seemed like heaven to certain lifelong residents. Perhaps it's the old homes on tree-lined streets, two wonderful town commons put to good use(with concerts and community and holiday events), good schools, pretty Willett Pond and full services offered to the community, but now Norwood has something else to cheer about: one of the best downtowns in suburban Boston.

Seemingly overnight, empty storefronts gave way to several restaurants and specialty shops that provide a center where people actually want to go. It is no longer a place to run errands, but a place to spend time. Norwood Center is visually pleasing with brick accents, colonial street lights on the common, and offers a nice stroll past stores that specialize in childrens' clothing, antiques, unfinished furniture, jewelry, arts and crafts, gifts, furnishings and just about everything else you'd find at the mall -- except this time, it's all locally-owned. There's even an old-fashioned diner, donut shop and bowling alley, all that look like something out of yesteryear -- including its prices (shhhh, don't tell anyone).

Norwood has a safe feel, even at night where people dine on Lebanese, Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Italian and American cuisines or just hang out for some good conversation at Perks Coffee. The town common is wonderful with nicely paved walkways leading to a large gazebo where you can sit back and admire the various perspectives of a small town that has made the most out of its downtown.

Related Article: Norwood has become a hot spot for Boston suburban dining