The Big List of Cities

The Big List

  • Natick, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Natick is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is located approximately 17 miles west of Boston. The town is nestled along the banks of Lake Cochituate and the Charles River. It covers a total area of 16.1 square miles, of which 15.1 square miles is land and 1.0 square mile is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Natick are 42.2775° N latitude and 71.3468° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Natick is part of the Greater Boston area in the New England region of the United States. It is surrounded by the towns of Wellesley on the east, Framingham on the west, Sherborn on the southwest, Wayland on the north, and Weston on the northeast.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Natick had a population of approximately 36,000. The town’s population is diverse, with a mix of Caucasians, African Americans, Asians, Hispanics, and other races. The median age of the population is around 42 years. The town is also home to a significant number of families, with about half of the households having children under the age of 18.

    🏛️ History

    Natick was first settled by the Puritans, led by missionary John Eliot, in 1651 as a plantation for the local Praying Indians, a group of Native Americans converted to Christianity. The town was officially incorporated in 1781. Its name, “Natick,” is derived from the language of the Massachusett Native American tribe and means “Place of Hills.” Over the centuries, Natick evolved from a small farming town into a bustling suburban center.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Natick is known for its beautiful natural environment, including numerous parks, forests, and bodies of water. The town is home to the Cochituate State Park, which offers a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, another popular destination, features a range of habitats and wildlife. The town is also committed to environmental sustainability, with various initiatives aimed at preserving its natural resources.

    🏫 Education

    Natick is served by the Natick Public Schools district, which includes one high school, two middle schools, and five elementary schools. The town is also home to several private schools. For higher education, the Walnut Hill School for the Arts and the Massachusetts Bay Community College are located in Natick.

    🚧 Transportation

    Natick is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The Massachusetts Turnpike (Interstate 90) runs through the southern part of the town, providing easy access to Boston and other parts of the state. The town is also served by the MBTA commuter rail, with two stations in Natick. Additionally, there are several bus routes operating in the area.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Natick is home to the world’s largest two-story freestanding Indian Meeting House, which is a part of the Eliot Church. The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Natick Farmers Market, the Natick Days festival, and the Boston Marathon, which passes through the town. The Natick Center Cultural District offers a range of arts and cultural activities, from galleries and theaters to music and dance performances.

  • Milford, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Milford is a town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, approximately 30 miles southwest of Boston. The town is bordered by Hopedale on the north, Mendon on the west, Upton on the south, and Bellingham on the east. Milford is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, with the Charles River running through the southern part of the town.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Milford, Massachusetts are approximately 42.1398° N latitude and 71.5162° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Milford is part of the New England region of the United States. It spans an area of approximately 14.9 square miles, of which 0.2 square miles is water and the rest is land.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Milford has a population of approximately 28,700 people. The town has a diverse demographic makeup, with a mix of White, African American, Asian, Hispanic, and other races. The median age in Milford is around 40 years.

    🏛️ History

    Milford was first settled in 1662 and was officially incorporated in 1780. The town’s early economy was largely based on agriculture, but it quickly became a center for quarrying pink Milford granite, which was used in many notable buildings across the country. In the 19th century, the town also became a hub for the boot and shoe industry.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Milford is known for its natural beauty, with numerous parks, trails, and open spaces. The Upper Charles Trail, a 6.7-mile path, is a popular spot for walking, running, and biking. The town is also home to the Milford Pond and the Louisa Lake, which offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and bird watching.

    🏫 Education

    The town of Milford is served by the Milford Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Milford High School. The town also has a few private schools and is in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Clark University.

    🚧 Transportation

    Milford is conveniently located near Interstate 495 and Route 16, providing easy access to Boston and other major cities in the region. The town does not have its own public transportation system, but it is served by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, which provides bus service to surrounding towns. The nearest commuter rail station is in the neighboring town of Franklin.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Milford is known for its annual Portuguese Picnic, which celebrates the town’s substantial Portuguese community. The town is also home to the Milford Performing Arts Center, which hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year. The Milford TV station provides local news and programming for the community.

  • Mendon, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Mendon is a small town located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the central part of the state, approximately 36 miles southwest of Boston. The town covers an area of 18.4 square miles, of which 0.6 square miles is water. The landscape of Mendon is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and numerous bodies of water, including several ponds and streams.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Mendon are 42.1053° N latitude and 71.5523° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Mendon is part of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, an area recognized for its unique historical and cultural significance. The town is surrounded by the communities of Hopedale, Milford, Uxbridge, Northbridge, and Millville. It is part of the larger Worcester metropolitan area.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, the population of Mendon is approximately 6,011. The town has a predominantly white demographic, with a median age of 44.4 years. The gender makeup of the town is roughly equal, with a slight majority of females. The town is known for its strong sense of community and small-town charm.

    🏛️ History

    Mendon was first settled in 1660 and was officially incorporated in 1667, making it one of the oldest towns in Massachusetts. The town played a significant role in the early development of the region, with its rich agricultural lands providing sustenance for the early settlers. Over the years, Mendon has maintained much of its historical charm, with numerous historic buildings and landmarks still standing today.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Mendon is home to a variety of natural attractions, including the Mendon Town Forest, a popular spot for hiking, bird watching, and nature walks. The town is also home to several bodies of water, including Lake Nipmuc, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The town takes pride in its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability.

    🏫 Education

    Mendon is served by the Mendon-Upton Regional School District, which includes Clough Elementary School, Miscoe Hill Middle School, and Nipmuc Regional High School. The schools are known for their strong academic programs and commitment to student success. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Clark University.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation in Mendon is primarily by car, with easy access to several major highways, including Interstate 495 and Route 16. The town is also served by the Worcester Regional Transit Authority, providing public bus service to surrounding communities. The nearest airport is Worcester Regional Airport, located approximately 20 miles away.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Mendon is home to the Southwick’s Zoo, New England’s largest privately-owned zoo, which attracts visitors from all over the region. The town also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Mendon Country Fair and the Mendon Twin Drive-In, one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in Massachusetts.

  • Maynard, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Maynard is a small town situated in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is located on the Assabet River, which runs through the center of the town. The town covers a total area of 5.4 square miles, of which 5.2 square miles is land and 0.2 square miles is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of Maynard, Massachusetts, are approximately 42.4334° N latitude and 71.4495° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Maynard is located in the northeastern region of the United States, in the New England area. It is part of the Boston metropolitan area and is approximately 25 miles west of Boston. The town is surrounded by Acton to the north, Sudbury to the east and south, and Stow to the west.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Maynard has a population of approximately 10,699 people. The town has a diverse demographic, with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The median age of the residents is around 42 years.

    🏛️ History

    Maynard was first settled in 1638 as part of the neighboring town of Stow. The town was officially incorporated in 1871 and was named after Amory Maynard, who, along with William Knight, had purchased land in the area to establish a carpet and woolen manufacturing company, the Assabet Manufacturing Company. The mill played a significant role in the town’s development and growth.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Maynard boasts beautiful natural surroundings, with the Assabet River and various parks offering opportunities for outdoor activities. The Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge is a highlight, providing habitats for various wildlife species. The town is also part of the “Sudbury, Assabet, Concord Wild and Scenic River” district.

    🏫 Education

    Maynard’s public school system is served by the Maynard Public Schools district, which includes Green Meadow Elementary School, Fowler School, and Maynard High School. There are also private school options in the surrounding areas. The town is within commuting distance of several higher education institutions, including Framingham State University and University of Massachusetts Lowell.

    🚧 Transportation

    Maynard is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) through bus service. The town is also easily accessible by car via Route 27, which runs through the center of the town. The nearest airport is Boston Logan International Airport, approximately 35 miles away.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Maynard is known for its annual “Maynard Fest,” a fall festival that showcases local businesses, food vendors, and live entertainment. The town is also home to the Fine Arts Theatre Place, one of the oldest continuously running movie theaters in Massachusetts. Notably, the town was once the headquarters for the Digital Equipment Corporation, a major computer company during the 20th century.

  • Marlborough, Massachusetts

    📍 Location & Geography

    Marlborough is a city located in Middlesex County, in the U.S. state of Massachusetts. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, approximately 30 miles west of Boston. The city covers a total area of 22.2 square miles, of which 21.1 square miles is land and 1.1 square miles is water. Marlborough is surrounded by the towns of Berlin, Hudson, Sudbury, Framingham, Southborough, and Northborough.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Marlborough, Massachusetts are 42.3459° N latitude, and 71.5523° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Marlborough is part of the MetroWest region of Massachusetts, which is a cluster of cities and towns lying west of Boston and east of Worcester. The city is included in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metropolitan Statistical Area. Marlborough spans a total area of 22.2 square miles.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Marlborough had a population of approximately 41,000 residents. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of races and ethnicities. The largest age group in Marlborough is 25 to 44 years old. The city has a slightly higher percentage of males than females.

    🏛️ History

    Marlborough was first settled by Europeans in 1657 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1660. It was named after Marlborough, a town in England. During the 19th century, the city became a major shoe manufacturing center. In the late 20th century, the city transitioned into a technology and commercial hub, with many companies setting up their headquarters or offices in Marlborough.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Marlborough is home to several parks and recreational areas, including Ghiloni Park, Callahan State Park, and Marlborough State Forest. The city also has two large bodies of water, Fort Meadow Reservoir and Lake Williams, which offer opportunities for boating and fishing. Marlborough is committed to environmental sustainability and has implemented various green initiatives.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Marlborough is managed by the Marlborough Public Schools district, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools. The Advanced Math and Science Academy Charter School, a highly-rated public charter school, is also located in the city. For higher education, Marlborough is home to a campus of the Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School.

    🚧 Transportation

    Marlborough is served by several major highways, including Interstate 495 and U.S. Route 20. Public transportation in the city is provided by the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority, which operates bus routes in the area. The nearest major airport is Boston Logan International Airport, located approximately 40 miles east of Marlborough.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Marlborough hosts several annual events, including the Marlborough Heritage Festival and the Labor Day Parade. The city is also home to the New England Sports Center, one of the largest ice skating complexes in North America. Notable people from Marlborough include Horatio Alger Jr., a 19th-century author known for his “rags-to-riches” stories.