Apartments and Airbnb in Medford, Massachusetts

Medford balances small-town charm with big-city proximity, making it a perfect base for exploring Greater Boston. The Mystic River winds through the city, offering walking trails, canoeing spots, and scenic relaxation. With its blend of local shops, colonial architecture, and student-friendly energy, Medford is both rooted and evolving. This is a destination that gives you space to breathe without leaving the city behind.

Top areas to stay at in Medford, Massachusetts

West Medford

West Medford is a quiet, residential area with tree-lined streets, local parks, and access to the commuter rail into Boston. Vacation rentals in Medford include charming houses, family-friendly apartments, and homes with backyard gardens. It offers an optimal environment for those seeking tranquility, while providing convenient access to the city center. West Medford combines neighborhood warmth with transit convenience.

Tufts University Area

Centered around Tufts University, this area is vibrant, walkable, and filled with students, cafés, and cultural spaces. Rentals include modern apartments, roomier homes for groups, and guest suites perfect for visiting families. The neighborhood is lively yet safe, with great eateries and proximity to Somerville’s Davis Square. Staying near the Tufts University Area means being surrounded by energy, intellect, and easy exploration.

South Medford

South Medford is a diverse and bustling neighborhood that bridges the city with Somerville and Cambridge. Guests will find cozy condos, duplexes, and homes close to restaurants, shops, and MBTA stations. South Medford offers culture, food, and flexibility.

North Medford / Wright’s Pond

Located near the Middlesex Fells Reservation, North Medford is ideal for travelers seeking nature without leaving town. Rentals include hillside homes, woodsy retreats, and Airbnbs near hiking trails and swimming spots. The North Medford offers tranquil surroundings, picturesque landscapes, and easy access to outdoor activities. North Medford delivers tranquility and fresh air minutes from the city.

Medford Square

The city’s traditional center, Medford Square features a blend of historic buildings, small businesses, and local eateries. Vacation rentals range from modern apartments to renovated units in classic brick buildings. The area is walkable and well-connected by bus routes and roads. Medford Square offers urban convenience wrapped in local charm.

Must-visit places and attractions in Medford, Massachusetts

Mystic River State Reservation

Following the path of the Mystic River, the Mystic River State Reservation offers miles of trails, greenways, and scenic waterfront views. Visitors can bike, walk, picnic, or canoe along the riverbanks. This offers a great way to experience nature while staying in the city. The reservation brings outdoor calm to Medford’s urban borders.

Royall House and Slave Quarters

A National Historic Landmark, the Royall House and Slave Quarters offer a rare glimpse into Northern slavery and colonial life. Guests can tour the 18th-century mansion, preserved slave quarters, and gardens. The site hosts educational programs and historic reenactments throughout the year.

Wright’s Tower and Middlesex Fells Reservation

Located in the nearby Fells, Wright’s Tower offers sweeping views of the Boston skyline from a hilltop stone tower. Hikers can explore the surrounding Middlesex Fells Reservation, a large network of trails, ponds, and woodlands. Nature lovers will appreciate this easily accessible escape.

Chevalier Theatre

A beautifully restored venue, the Chevalier Theatre hosts concerts, comedy acts, and cultural events in an intimate Art Deco setting. Located near Medford Square, it draws performers from across the country and features an active events calendar. Visitors can enjoy a night out without leaving the city. The theatre adds artistic flair to Medford’s cultural scene.

Tufts University Art Galleries

Open to the public, the Tufts University Art Galleries feature contemporary and student-curated exhibitions across two campus venues. The galleries offer insightful and often experimental programming with rotating installations. Visitors can experience bold art in an academic setting.

Brookings Park and Riverbend Park

These neighborhood parks provide space for relaxation, children’s play, and quiet strolls along the river. Both Brookings Park and Riverbend Park are popular with families and locals for their green lawns and shaded benches. Seasonal flowers and scenic paths make them pleasant throughout the year. They’re peaceful spots to recharge in the heart of Medford.

Ball Square

Located near the Somerville border, Ball Square is a lively commercial hub known for its breakfast joints, bakeries, and walkability. Visitors can enjoy local flavors, shop small, and access the new Green Line Extension. This spot offers a delicious and easy way to kick off your day in the city. Ball Square adds flavor and community to any visit.

Medford Farmers Market

Running seasonally, the Medford Farmers Market offers local produce, baked goods, crafts, and live music in a friendly outdoor setting. Held weekly, this social and culinary event draws both residents and visitors alike. Shoppers can meet local makers and support sustainable practices. The market is a staple of Medford’s local life.

Where to find a vacation rental near Medford

Boston, Massachusetts

Just a few miles south, Boston offers history, food, and world-class attractions like the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and Boston Common. Vacation rentals include brownstones in Back Bay, modern apartments in the Seaport, and lofts in the North End. Visitors can explore museums, eat fresh seafood, and walk historic streets. For an immersive city experience, stay in a vacation rental in Boston, where every corner blends history with modern flair.

Salem, Massachusetts

About 40 minutes northeast, Salem is a coastal town famous for its witch trials history, maritime heritage, and autumn festivals. Accommodations range from haunted inns to stylish modern homes near the waterfront. Guests can tour the Salem Witch Museum, explore boutique shops, or stroll through the historic district. For a blend of spooky stories and seaside charm, book a house in Salem, where historic legends meet harbor views.

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Just next door, Cambridge is a hub of academia and innovation, home to Harvard University and MIT. Vacation rentals include elegant homes, chic condos, and guesthouses near Harvard Square or Central Square. Visitors can attend lectures, shop at indie bookstores, or explore diverse global cuisine. To enjoy cultural vibrancy and intellectual charm, settle into an apartment in Cambridge, steps from libraries, gardens, and buzzing cafés.

Lexington, Massachusetts

Roughly 25 minutes northwest, Lexington is steeped in Revolutionary War history and small-town beauty. Rentals include colonial homes, modern stays near greenways, and peaceful Airbnbs in residential neighborhoods. Guests can walk Battle Green, visit historic homes, or picnic along the Minuteman Bikeway. For a quiet and historic retreat, stay in a vacation rental in Lexington, where leafy paths and patriot tales shape the atmosphere.

Somerville, Massachusetts

Bordering Medford, Somerville is a lively, artistic city filled with breweries, vintage shops, and dynamic neighborhoods like Davis Square and Union Square. Rentals include urban lofts, eclectic apartments, and homes near public transit. Visitors can explore artisan markets, catch a live show, or enjoy a craft beer crawl. For creativity and convenience, choose a house in Somerville, where colorful streets and indie culture meet.