For a fun-filled day, head to Saugus Iron Works. This 12-acre National Historic Site offers much to discover, from working water wheels to a 17th century house. Here is some of what this unique destination features near our Cambridge apartments:

Museum

Start your visit at the museum. It features a 12-minute film offering a great way to learn about the site. The building was once used as a blacksmith shop, and two rooms showcase artifacts uncovered on the property during digs in the 1940s and 1950s. You will see tools, Native American items, an original 17th century blast furnace waterwheel, and more.

Blast Furnace

In the early 1600s, the original blast furnace was lit to 3,000 degrees. It burned 24 hours a day for weeks and is where workers melted bog ore to make cast iron "pig" bars.

Nature Trail

Enjoy a scenic stroll along the nature trail. Starting near the blacksmith shop, it follows the eastern bank of the Saugus River for a portion of the adventure. The path offers a fun place to see wildflowers and different tree species, and during high tide, you'll want to look for wading birds in the river.

Iron Works House

Dating back to the 1680s, the Iron Works House is the oldest building at the park. The earliest known occupant, Samuel Appleton Jr., lived here between 1681 and 1688. By the early 1800s, the structure had been significantly altered and was used to house mill workers. Today, several rooms feature period and reproduction furnishings to showcase what life was like when the home was first built.

Before exploring Saugus Iron Works, start your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich. If you would like to become a resident of Luxe at Alewife, please contact us. We would love for you to see everything our apartments in Cambridge have to offer.