Skip to main content
Wright's Pond lake in Medford, MA
Photo: Alex Harm
View of Wright's Pond in Medford, MA
Photo: Alex Harm
View of Wright's Pond in Medford, MA
Photo: Shawna Caudill

Wright's Pond

4.0(25 reviews)FreePark
🕑 3-5 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love splashing in the shallow areas and playing on the playground, while school-age kids enjoy swimming in deeper sections and exploring the trails around the pond.

About

Wright's Pond is a quintessential summer destination in Medford where families can spend an entire day enjoying the sandy beach area, cooling off in the swimming zone, and exploring scenic walking trails. The combination of water play, a playground for when kids need a break from swimming, and shaded picnic spots makes it an ideal spot for families looking to escape the heat without leaving the city.

Highlights

  • Sandy beach area perfect for building sandcastles
  • Designated swimming area with summer lifeguard supervision
  • Playground equipment for active play between swim sessions
  • Scenic walking trails around the entire pond
  • Picnic areas with tables and grills for family cookouts

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive before 11am on summer weekends to snag a prime spot on the beach and avoid the midday crowds
  2. 2.Bring a pop-up tent or large umbrella as shaded areas can fill up quickly on hot days
  3. 3.Pack water shoes for kids since the pond bottom can be rocky in spots
  4. 4.Don't miss the walking trail loop around the pond - it's an easy stroller-friendly path perfect for a pre-swim morning walk
  5. 5.Bring cash for the ice cream truck that typically makes rounds on warm weekend afternoons

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings during summer (June-August) between 9am-12pm for the most pleasant experience with smaller crowds and cooler temperatures. Weekends get busy by late morning, especially during July and August heat waves.

What to Know

Swimming is free and lifeguards are on duty during summer months. Parking can be limited on busy days, so street parking in the surrounding neighborhood may be necessary. Bathrooms are available on-site.

Seasonal Notes

Swimming season typically runs from mid-June through Labor Day when lifeguards are present. The pond and trails remain open year-round for walking, though winter visits offer ice skating opportunities when conditions allow. Fall foliage around the pond creates beautiful scenery in October.

Nearby Eats

Head to Tenoch Mexican (10 minutes away) for fresh tacos and quesadillas kids love, or stop at Kelly's Roast Beef in nearby Revere for classic New England clam strips and ice cream.

More Activities Near Medford

Park

Oak Grove Playground

4.6Free

Oak Grove Playground is a welcoming neighborhood park that's perfectly positioned right near the Oak Grove T station, making it a breeze for families using public transportation. This community green space offers a nice mix of playground equipment, walking paths for stroller-friendly exploring, and open areas where kids can run freely while parents connect with other local families.

Park

Tufts Park

4.4Free

Tufts Park is a beloved Medford neighborhood gem that delivers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With well-maintained playground equipment for multiple age groups, baseball fields, tennis courts, and plenty of open green space for running around, this park punches above its weight for variety and quality in a convenient location.

Library

Charlotte and William Bloomberg Medford Public Library

4.7Free

The Charlotte and William Bloomberg Medford Public Library is a family favorite with an impressive 4.7-star rating, offering much more than just books. With extensive children's programming including story times, craft activities, and a thoughtfully designed kids' section, this library creates a welcoming space where young readers can explore and families can connect through literacy and creative play.

Nature

Mystic River State Reservation

4.6Free

Mystic River State Reservation offers families an accessible escape into nature right in Medford, with easy paved trails perfect for strollers and young bikers alongside the scenic Mystic River. Kids love spotting ducks, turtles, and fish from the riverbanks, while parents appreciate the well-maintained paths that accommodate all ages and abilities for walks, bike rides, or simply enjoying the waterfront views.