Did You Know?

West Newton was a smaller, quieter business district until the 1800s when it became popular for its convenient location between Boston & Natick, and then even more so when the Railroad came through. It quickly became another hot spot for Bostonians for its quaint vibes and affordable land while all being close to the city, and grew to the adorable little village it is today!

From 1848 until the 1930s, it housed the Newton City Hall; and today it still remains home to the Newton Police Department & the Courthouse located right on Washington Street.

It became a leader of educational reform in the mid 19th century. It housed the Normal School, which eventually moved and became Framingham State, as well as the Allen School, started by Nathaniel Topliff Allen, a very progressive school for its time during the Civil War, providing equal opportunities for girls and boys as well as welcoming all races. Allen also pioneered one of the first ever kindergartens in the US out of this school!

West Newton is home to the historic West Newton Cinema, an independent small theater in the heart of the center that has amazing popcorn and throw-back vibes! Although sadly this summer, after 40 years, its family owners announced they’d sell the property it sits on - so time will tell!

Some of our favorite spots to eat or grab a drink in West Newton Square are Flora’s Wine Bar, the Bluebird restaurant, Paddy’s Public House, the Cherry Tree, Blue Ribbon BBQ, Sweet Tomatoes, DePasquale's, Judith’s Kitchen & many more!

West Newton is home to the only Trader Joe’s in the city of Newton and is currently in the process of expanding! They just added wine & beer offerings and soon will have a larger parking lot. We also can’t wait to have our sign on the side of the building! :-)

Do you live in West Newton and know any other fun facts or secret spots you'd like to share? Please reach out us as we work on our Newton favs collection!!