Known as Nashoba, the village was located between Fort Pond and Lake Nagog, much of which is now taken up by the Sarah Doublet Forest, named for the last “praying Indian” who died in 1736. Today Littleton is the New England headquarters for the technology giant, IBM, and benefits from massive tracts of conservation land containing overlooks, a ravine, caves, and mature lakefront forest.

1. Long Pond

Source: Alex Stafstrom / shutterstock

A lovely natural feature within shouting distance of Littleton Common is this 113-acre Great Pond.

Despite being so close to the center of town, Long Pond is surprisingly free of development, with the southern and western portions of the shoreline ensconced in conservation land.

Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, Littleton’s public beach sits on the northwest shore, and is a fine place to unwind or cool off on a hot day.

There’s a good sweep of sand, a bathhouse, a kayak/canoe launch and picnic areas. You can purchase seasonal membership or pay a daily use fee.

2. Kimball Farm

Source: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism / Flickr | CC BY-ND

Next door in Westford, this cherished family entertainment center attracts people from all over New England.

Dating back to 1939, Kimball Farm is a dairy farm that has added a host of attractions over time. If golf is your game, you’ve got two 18-hole adventure golf courses, a 9-hole pitch & putt course, and a driving range with 75 hitting stations.

Beyond that there’s a zipline, batting cages, bird of prey demonstrations, pony rides, a petting farm, bumper cars, bumper boats, and an arcade.

Kimball Farm is equally famous for its creamy homemade ice cream, which comes in more than 50 flavors.

There are two places on the farm where you can order hot food, one of which is a classic New England seafood shack making regional fare like lobster rolls, clam strips, fried scallops, and hand-cut onion rings.

3. Nashoba Valley Tubing Park

Source: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism / Flickr | CC BY-ND

The Nashoba Valley Ski Area is on the Littleton-Westford line, and for many people the main attraction is the giant snow tubing park on a deceptively steep hill.

With as many as 18 lanes, served by four lifts, this is officially the largest tubing park in New England.

You’ll pay for a two-hour slot, and will then be free to make as many runs as you want. The lanes are carefully maintained, and are suitable for everyone over 42” in height or 6 years old.

Doubles and group tubing are permitted, depending on the conditions. As you can imagine, the experience depends on the weather—if you visit after fresh snowfall the lanes will be a little slower.

4. Nashoba Valley Ski Area

Source: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism / Flickr | CC BY-ND

The entrance for the tubing park is in Littleton, while the main ski area is accessed from the Westford side of the town line.

This small mountain has been open to the public since 1964, and is known for having one of the best terrain parks in the state. With a vertical difference of about 240 feet, the Nashoba Valley Ski Area has 17 runs, the longest of which is 1,400 feet.

The area has four conveyor lifts, four chairlifts and three rope tows, which keep things flowing with a capacity of 11,600 per hour.

The on-site Outlook Restaurant is open all year round, and outside the winter season there’s a summer camp for kids, and Witch’s Woods, one of the top Halloween scare experiences in the region.

5. Prouty Woods

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One of the best places for a walk in Littleton is the town-owned stand of mature woods on the western shore of Long Pond.

Prouty Woods has some 1,600 feet of lake frontage, and the picturesque woods on the shore have a vital ecological purpose, ensuring the purity of the lake’s watershed and preventing erosion.

Another essential natural feature at Prouty Woods is Wilderness Hill, which climbs to 170 feet over the surrounding land.

Thanks to its prominence the views from the summit are astonishing on a clear day, with Mount Monadnock visible around 35 miles to the northwest and Mount Wachusett on the western horizon, about 20 miles away.

Come in early spring and you can witness the bizarre courting ritual of the American woodcock, known as the “Sky Dance”, in which the male soars 350 feet in the air before descending in curious zigzag style, while generating strange noises with their special wing feathers.

6. O’Neil Cinemas

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This sleek multiplex opened at Littleton’s The Point shopping center in 2017. With eight screens, the theater is part of a small chain in New England, delivering a state-of-the-art movie experience in a sophisticated ambience.

There are recliners throughout, complete with drink holders and trays, and you’ll be wowed by the latest sound and picture technology in every screen.

But the star is the Grand DLX, billed as the largest screen in Boston’s Metro Northwest, at 72 feet across and four stories high, with multidimensional Dolby Atmos sound.

In keeping with the upscale feel, there’s the Backstage Lounge, a full-service eatery/bar, with a 15-foot video wall showing sports events, trivia and more.

7. Oak Hill Conservation Land

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You could easily spend hours exploring the trails at this large conservation property in the west of Littleton and not get bored.

There are seven miles of trails at Oak Hill, with plenty to be discovered as you go. One highlight is Lookout Rock, rising to 475 feet above sea level, and with views that take in Boston’s Prudential Tower and John Hancock Tower (26.5 miles to the southeast) on a clear day.

Also thrilling is Tophet Chasm, dropping 80 feet at the site of what was once a monumental waterfall at the end of the last Ice Age.

Incorporated into the trail system at Oak Hill are a pair of 19th-century stagecoach roads, and if you look closely you can see where the wheels of these coaches cut grooves into the bedrock.

8. Smith Conservation Land

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South of Oak Hill and overlapping into Harvard you’ll find this treasured conservation area, mixing wetlands, open fields and former farmland on just over 60 acres.

The Smith Conservation Land straddles Whitcomb Avenue, offering very different experiences on each side.

To the west, you’ll travel along an unforgettable ravine perforated with caves that are known to provide a shelter for porcupines, coyotes, bobcats and even black bears.

Things are gentler east of Whitcomb Avenue where the trail skirts the edge of the marshes on Beaver Brook, with distant views of a great blue heron rookery if you have binoculars with you.

9. Spring Brook Farm

Source: Spring Brook Farm / Facebook

Covering more than 400 acres, this farm in the north of Littleton can trace its history back all the way to 1713.

Even more remarkable, Spring Brook Farm has been in the same family since that time. Ten generations later, the farm remains a vital community asset, valued for the home-grown and homemade products on the shelves of its country store.

Think freshly picked fruits and vegetables, eggs, honey, plants, the farm’s popular line of jams, farm-raised meats, and a bounty of baked goods, from fresh breads to pies, quiches and cookies.

The store also has a trove of charming gifts like candles, jewelry, linens, and decorations for interiors and gardens.

10. Sarah Doublet Forest

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The Littleton Conservation Trust’s largest property is 100 acres of woods on a piece of the historic Nashoba Plantation.

There’s an exciting mix of natural abundance and history to be discovered along a warren of blazed trails at the Sarah Doublet Forest.

The yellow loop traverses former pasture and passes a long abandoned quarry, while the red loop passes vernal pools and a patch of witch hazel shrubs, which are stunning in fall when their yellow flowers are in bloom.

Close to the parking lot on the orange trail you’ll see the mysterious remnants of an old farmhouse, with only a chimney stack and foundations remaining.

11. Houghton Memorial Building

Source: John Phelan / Wikimedia | CC BY 3.0

One of the finest pieces of architecture in Littleton is the former public library building, now home to the Littleton Historical Society.

Built with yellow brick and completed in 1895, the Houghton Memorial Building is in a Colonial Revival style, with Romanesque Revival elements on the main facade.

This was a gift from the son of William S. Houghton, a wealthy Boston merchant who was a Littleton native and had earlier funded the library’s collection.

When we wrote this article the building was open on Wednesday afternoons and occasional Sundays. Head inside for enlightening exhibits about various aspects of local history, as well as for seasonal gifts at the museum shop.

12. Bobby’s Ranch

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Close by in Westford there’s an equestrian business that dates right back to 1972. Bobby’s Ranch started out as a way to keep the namesake proprietor, Bobby, occupied during the summer as a 16 year old.

The ranch flourished over time and is now run by Bobby, his wife Celia and their daughters Cassie and Theresa.

There’s a boarding service, a horsemanship program for kids in summer, and a menu of private, semi-private and group horse riding lessons.

But the ranch’s main business is a guided trail riding service (by reservation). On docile and friendly horses, these take place in bucolic rural scenery, and you can even go on a weekend-long adventure if you book in advance.

13. The Point

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When it opened to the public in 2015, this mixed-use development became the first of its kind in Boston’s Metro Northwest region.

The Point is just off I-495 and integrates a hotel (Courtyard by Marriott), offices, entertainment attractions, and a selection of stores, eateries and other service businesses.

Hand-in-hand with O’Neil Cinemas, one of the best things going for The Point is its food scene.

At close quarters you can choose from Indian, pan-Asian, tavern fare, and New England-style seafood.

There’s also a wine bar, and locations for Starbucks, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings, and Moe’s Southwest Grill.

14. MetroRock Littleton

Source: oleksboiko / shutterstock

Opened in 2019, this indoor climbing gym at The Point is part of a regional chain, catering to climbers of all abilities.

After signing a waiver and picking up any necessary gear, experienced climbers can start exploring the bouldering terrain at MetroRock within minutes of arriving.

There’s a test for top-rope climbing, and a more stringent assessment if you’re here for lead climbing.

Novices are free to drop in anytime, and will be given a thorough orientation, and a tutorial on how to use the auto-belays.

If you’d feel more comfortable with a guided intro to climbing you can book a private belay, and will be talked through the techniques by a member of staff.

15. Shaker Hills Country Club

Source: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism / Flickr | CC BY-ND

Moments away in Harvard there’s a publicly accessible golf course with a high reputation. In its time, Shaker Hills Country Club has been listed as the top public course in Massachusetts, and this prestige is reflected in the green fees, which are at the upper end of the market.

The current layout goes back to a renovation in 2012, and one of the course’s biggest assets has always been its spectacular, rambling scenery.

As a fitting finale, you’ve got a breathtaking 560-yard dogleg par 5, ending at the clubhouse. This facility is perched above a natural amphitheater, with views of the 1st, 9th, 10th and 18th holes from the top deck.

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The natural beauty doesn’t stop there; the South Platte River runs through the city, which is also known for its numerous parks and miles of green spaces. Outdoor lovers can hike and bike hundreds of miles of trails or simply enjoy the serene, natural surroundings of the mountain foothills.

Littleton is known for its family-friendly, laid-back way of life, with friendly locals and a variety of things to see and do. The combination of cultural events, historical landmarks, and modern attractions provide visitors with a delightful combination of old and new.

The vibrant downtown neighborhood with its quaint, tree-lined streets lacks the towering skyscrapers of nearby Denver. It’s an interesting mix of old buildings, antique shops, small local retailers, modern restaurants, relaxed cafes, lively bars, and galleries featuring local artists.

Throughout the year, the city hosts various events, including Western Welcome Week, Candlelight Walk, and Twilight Criterium.

Below are 15 of the best things to see and do in and around Littleton, Colorado.

1. The Littleton Museum

Source: Jim Lambert / shutterstock

Visitors who are interested in learning about the history and culture of Littleton should first head to the Littleton Museum, where the town’s past, present, and future is showcased across several galleries and a number of interactive exhibits.

Situated in a beautiful location close to Ketring Lake, the history outlined in this museum goes all the way back to prehistoric times. On-site, there’s a children’s gallery with fun exhibits, The Fine Arts Gallery with local art and photography, and two replicas of living farms detailing the agriculture history of the area.

2. Chatfield State Park

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Outdoor lovers can spend an entire day participating in a wide variety of activities in the beautiful natural setting of Chatfield State Park in the Rocky Mountain Foothills. Water sports, such as canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, and sailing, are very popular in the park.

Bikers and hikers have access to 26 miles of trails, or visitors can spend a relaxing evening fishing for trout, bass, crappie, and catfish. In winter, ice-fishing and snowshoeing are popular activities. On-site amenities include a floating restaurant, a marina, boat rentals, and campsites.

3. SeaQuest Littleton

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Visitors of all ages can discover rainforests and deserts with an interactive tour of SeaQuest Littleton. About 12,000 animals across several hundred species make their home in habitats as close to their natural ones as possible, and many of these animals were rescued due to illness or injuries.

Some of the experiences you can take part in include wading with stingrays, feeding and petting some of the animals, and viewing various species such as sharks, snakes, caimans, lizards, and birds.

4. Littleton Golf and Tennis Center

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Golfers can get in a quick game at the 18-hole executive golf course at Littleton Golf and Tennis Center. Situated in a scenic location close to the South Platte River and the Mary Carter Greenway Trail, this par 63 course also features a driving range, and restaurants and lessons are available.

If tennis is more your thing, there are six indoor tennis courts on site.

5. St. Patrick’s Brewing Co.

Source: Saint Patrick's Brewing Company / Facebook

Since 2012, St. Patrick’s Brewing Co. has been brewing top-quality artisan beers. These prize-winning, Colorado-inspired lagers and ales are served up in a laid-back taproom. Visitors can sample a wide variety of options with names such as Irish I Was on the Beach, Strawberry Blonde Ale, and Luminosity Blonde.

All are made with fresh, premium ingredients. If you like to have some munchies with your beer, food trucks are parked outside the brewery on weekends. Throughout the week, the brewery hosts various events such as ping-pong tournaments and craft beer drawing parties.

6. The Denver Botanic Gardens

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In the center of hectic Denver is a serene refuge away from the noise and crowds of the city. At the Denver Botanic Gardens, visitors enjoy a peaceful stroll through 45 gardens filled with more than 33,000 plants.

On-site is a Japanese Garden, Rock Alpine Garden, and the Mordecai Children’s Garden. The Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory, which is one of the largest in the United States, is also open to the public.

7. Cafe Terracotta

Source: Cafe Terracotta / Facebook

Visitors looking for upscale, creative dining in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere can head to Cafe Terracotta in Littleton. The layout of this eatery was planned to allow diners the chance to interact with the people preparing their meals, so they can be a part of the process.

At breakfast and lunch, you can expect to find familiar items, such as eggs Benedict and club sandwiches, combined with Mexican-inspired choices like breakfast burritos. Dinner is an extravagant affair serving up options that include chicken Wellington and braised short ribs. The wine list is long and features both Californian and European wines.

8. Fifty-Two 80s

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Visitors to Littleton can take a little trip to Denver and a short trip down memory lane with a visit to Fifty-Two 80s. This antique shop is unlike any other antique shop you’ve ever been to. It specializes in collectibles and nostalgic items from the 80s and 90s.

Many of the items are related to the Saturday morning cartoons that were so popular in that era. Pac-man, Care Bears, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle-related items are among the everyday items on display. Trading cards, action figures, pinball machines, posters, and cassette tapes can also be found among the more than 4,500 things in the shop.

9. Roxborough State Park

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Visitors to Littleton can spend an entire day wandering the beautiful landscape of Roxborough State Park. The defining feature of this 3,300-acre National Natural Landmark is the prominent 300 million-year-old red sandstone rock formations that set the backdrop for an extraordinary day in nature.

There are six hiking trails in the park, and along the way, you will see notable archaeological sites and wildlife, including more than one hundred different bird species, black bears, and coyotes.

10. Littleton Depot Art Gallery

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Art lovers visiting Littleton can stop at the Littleton Depot and Art Gallery, which showcases local art. You can view stunning watercolors, unique sculptures, oil paintings, and photography. There are even galleries located in the caboose from the 1890s, which is also on-site.

11. South Platte Park and the Carson Nature Center

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South Platte Park and the Carson Nature Center is the perfect mix for a day spent in the great outdoors. With 878 acres of nature at your fingertips, there’s no shortage of relaxing and exciting outdoor activities to participate in.

There are five lakes in the park, including the Chatfield Reservoir, which is said to be one of the top fishing locations in Colorado. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are also popular activities on these lakes. For hikers, there are several hiking and biking trails, as well as a horseback riding area.

While exploring the park, you may also spot some wildlife as hundreds of animal species make their homes there. The on-site nature center has interesting exhibits that provide information about the park and surrounding area.

12. Colorado Antique Gallery

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Visitors looking for a large selection of antiques to admire or purchase can do so at the Colorado Antique Gallery. As the biggest antique mall in Denver, it has been a go-to for antique lovers and collectors for almost 30 years. Several hundred of Colorado’s top antique dealers showcase a wide assortment of items, including furniture, art, jewelry, and much more.

Knowledgeable staff are available to help you find what you are looking for and provide information on individual items. Most importantly, they can arrange for any item you purchase to be shipped to your home.

13. Hildebrand Ranch

Source: Jeffrey Beall / Flickr | CC BY-SA

Visitors can explore the preserved workings of a historic working ranch at Hildebrand Ranch. Pioneer settlers built this ranch that is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Living history can be explored through a 19th-century schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a granary.

14. Robert Clement Park

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For a day of outdoor fun, locals and visitors alike head to Robert Clement Park in Littleton to use the numerous facilities available and embark on a variety of outdoor adventures.

Tennis courts, a skate park, batting cages, softball fields, and volleyball courts are on-site for those interested in some athletic fun. A 1.4-mile nature trail provides a light hike through a pretty, natural area, and kids enjoy the splash park in warmer weather and two playgrounds. Fishing is enjoyed at the Johnston Reservoir.

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