Which are the most happening Towns in Mass? (Boston, Cambridge: good schools, live)

[cb2008]

Originally Posted by Boston Shudra

I work near Ballardvale and wouldn’t call it “happening” by any stretch of the imagination.

I wouldn’t either. Neither is Andover. It shuts down by 9 and is deserted on Sundays. Ballardvale is certainly a walkable area, with a childrens park, some character and charm, diversity, and has potential. That is all I meant.

[MikePRU]

As others have already said, it feels like we're not getting all the information we need to be as helpful as we can be. What kind of house are you looking for (i.e. how big, how big of a lot, bedrooms/bathrooms, etc.)? What's your budget? What do you consider a "reasonable" commute? That's a HIGHLY subjective term and to some a 40 min commute is reasonable while others consider 20 minutes too long. Also, are we talking about a commute by car or public transportation? Also, when you say a place that's "happening" what does that mean? Bars that are open until late night or just that you're able to walk to a coffee shop?

The more detail you can give the better the answers you'll get back. Also, I have to say I'm surprised to see towns like Westwood, Natick, and Wellesley on your list but not Needham or Newton. Why's that?

[Boston_Burbs]

The cluster of Marblehead/Salem/Beverly has about as many events per weekend that you can fit in your schedule. Plus you have the ocean.

If you are looking for more space, Ipswich has events plus nature areas as well, but the commute it tougher as the trains split in Beverly so timing is worse and its further away.

Honestly I never got the NBPT hype, its priced like it is close to Boston/128, except it is not (1.5 hours). You could do the same or better down the commuter rail line.

[BostonBornMassMade]

There ar no happening towns outside of I-95. Nice towns, but not happening.

[msRB311]

lol. I actually find the subject line humorous. If you want a happening place you need to live in the city...probably not a place like Norwell, Scituate or cohasset.

[BostonBornMassMade]

Originally Posted by msRB311

lol. I actually find the subject line humorous. If you want a happening place you need to live in the city...probably not a place like Norwell, Scituate or cohasset.

right

[msRB311]

Milton might be the closest they can get to happenin'

[Boston_Burbs]

I think there can be a balance between a town where you can go out on a weeknight and have multiple places with people in them drinking to a town like Topsfield that doesn't sell alcohol. Salem/Beverly/Marblehead have multiple weekend festivals throughout the year that the OP could walk to in they lived in those towns or take a short drive. You have culture (movies, art scene, etc.) that is fun and engaging without having to drive far. And there is even a Target if you really want to get crazy.

[msRB311]

The OP mentioned 'happening' but then did mention some times that are particularly un happening. I mean Cohasset is beautiful but there's like 2 or 3 restaurants. People move there for the ocean views and the schools are good. It's definitely a family place...a wealthy family place. Scituate is a little more down to earth but it depends what you're really looking for.

Most towns have restaurants...even the quieter ones.

[Boston Shudra]

Originally Posted by msRB311

Milton might be the closest they can get to happenin'

Does Milton even have a downtown? Or any vaguely walkable collection of shops or restaurants?