There are few open spaces in Massachusetts, and Case Estates is one of them. A small arboretum close to Boston owned and operated by Harvard University, this property features several meadows, as well as woods and some wetlands. The arboretum has kept a somewhat wild aspect that makes it a great destination for an afternoon of inactivity or moderate walking. Another key advantage of this property is the solitude you will find: our staff has gone there three times and never met anybody.

From the parking lot, you can walk up the meadow right in front of you and find a spot in the sun or under shade trees. Alternatively, you can walk down behind the barn and follow the path that turns right. There are two other open fields down the path a few yards away.

In the mood for a short walk? Follow that path into the woods. Several trails branch out, but if you continue straight you will arrive after 10 minutes in the back of an open, landscaped cemetery in Weston. Retrace your steps for a few yards and take the trail on your left. You will walk behind a parking lot and find a larger trail that brings you back to Case Estates’ meadows. Walk up the hill on your left towards the small house ruins, continue along the woods edge, and take the first trail on your left. Walk in the forest until you reach an intersection down the hill. Take the trail on the right and follow it until you reach a small clearing with a bench amid rhododendrons. Walk through the gate in the large wall at the far end of the clearing, and turn right behind the wall (the field is a private property). After re-entering the woods for a few yards, you will again emerge in the meadows on the other side of the property’s headquarters. Walk straight in the field until you reach the parking lot.