Top 15 Most Memorable Things To Do In Hopkinton, Massachusetts

In town for the Boston Marathon and wondering what to do in Hopkinton, Massachusetts (MA)? This article covers all of the best sights to see and things to do in Hopkinton, MA.

“It all starts here!” This is the slogan of the small town of Hopkinton, MA, famously known for being the starting line of the Boston Marathon. This slogan has a double meaning for me, as it is also my hometown and where I grew up! I lived in Hopkinton for 18 years, and am therefore a self-proclaimed expert. As such, I’ve compiled the top 15 most memorable things to do in Hopkinton, MA, as written by a long-term local. I know every inch of the town, all the quirks, secret spots, and popular hangouts, and I want to share them with you.

Located 26 miles southeast of Boston, Hopkinton is a small and quaint town that is primarily residential, with a picturesque main square. My advice for the best time of year to visit Hopkinton is in April to view the marathon, and in September when the warmth of the summer lingers and the trees start to change colors. If you can’t make it during the warmer months, Hopkinton is close to many major New England sights and attractions that are well worth a winter visit.

With the Boston Marathon (held on Patriot’s Day annually - the third Monday in April) coming up, I thought it was about time I wrote about Hopkinton. The marathon brings an estimated half a million spectators along the route, so this is easily the biggest travel day to Hopkinton every year. If you are in town for the marathon, just passing through, or a local looking for something new to do, I’ve got you covered with the top 15 best things to do in Hopkinton, MA!

Now being from Hopkinton, MA myself, you’d think that I would have pictures of all of these spots I’ve been to a million times, but I actually had to take a trip around town to collect these photos. It’s funny how when you live somewhere you often take it for granted and seem to only have pictures of people, not of places.

I suppose this is a good thing, but if you’re reading this article, here is a reminder to take some pictures around the town you live in and your current house or apartment. We often overlook these things as mundane, but it is wonderful to get to look back on them when time passes and you find yourself somewhere new!

Without further ado, you can find what to do in Hopkinton, MA listed and described below, with some local recommendations scattered throughout!

Short on time? Here’s the main takeaway:

A trip to Hopkinton is never complete without a walk through the downtown common, a pint from Start Line Brewery, and a kayak around Hopkinton State Park. Make sure you hit these top attractions when visiting!

1. Boston Marathon Start Line

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Downtown Hopkinton has a lot to offer! It is easily walkable; you’ll often see the streets filled with students on a treasured ‘early-release’ day from school with money to burn at the local shops. Start your walk from the town common, and walk west to Main Street. Once you’ve reached the fire department you’ve pretty much seen it all! The town is in the process of opening a bike path in this area, but it is still under construction in 2025.

I’ve listed some of the local favorites that you must check out here:

1. Muffin House for a coffee and, of course, a muffin.

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