Arlington Community Education

Interested in backpacking but unsure about what you need or how to plan for getting yourself out on a trail for a few days? Learn more about the what, how, and why of backpacking from a pair of experienced long-distance thru-hikers. These indoor, hands-on sessions are suited for beginners as well as more experienced trail enthusiasts who want a refresher or an infusion of trail mojo. Learn how to plan a safe excursion, choose proper gear and clothing, and pack food and filter water.In addition, we will share simple mindfulness concepts that can result in a greater experience of awe in nature. This program is inclusive of individuals identifying as transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming. Meets at Green Room Wellness Center in Arlington

This tour offers private access to the Lincoln home of Walter Gropius, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century and founder of the German design school known as the Bauhaus. Modest in scale, the 1938 Gropius home was revolutionary in impact. It combined the traditional elements of New England architecture with innovative materials rarely used in domestic settings at that time, along with the latest technology in fixtures. In keeping with Bauhaus philosophy, every aspect of the house and its surrounding landscape was planned for maximum efficiency and simplicity of design. With all the family possessions still in place, experience an immediacy rarely found in house museums. Enjoy this tour with your mom or your kids for a memorable Mother’s Day outing. Ages 10+ Please note that the tour requires a considerable amount of standing and stair climbing. If you need special assistance, please contact ACE at least five days before the tour.

Due to the popularity of this class, please register for one session only. Tired of the Minuteman Bikeway and looking for a change of cycling scenery? We’ll explore interesting routes within a 30-minute drive of Arlington. Riders should be able to maintain a 10–12 mph average pace and ride 16–20 miles. This is moderate, but not leisurely riding. Rides will be on roads, paved rail trails, and on packed trails through the woods. Please note: Riders must wear helmets and have recently tuned road or hybrid bikes with fully inflated tires. Electric assist bikes that you must pedal are also welcome. Bring water, a snack, a great attitude, and a spare inner tube (just in case). Meeting location will be emailed one week prior to the date of first class. Weather cancellations will be made up as needed.

Dusk is a magical time to be on the water, so what could be more blissful than paddling a canoe by moonlight? We’ll push off as the sun sets for an evening of relaxation, good food, and conversation. As the moon rises to light our way, we’ll watch herons browsing along the banks of the Charles, river otters fishing for their last meal of the day, and other wildlife settling in for the night. Your guide will share the rich history of the area, including the Canoe Clubs, Norumbega Park, and the Totem Pole Ballroom. After a light dessert and non-alcoholic beverages, we will return to the dock. This slow, relaxing 2–3 mile group paddle is suitable for folks of all paddling abilities. Children ages 12+ are welcome to register if accompanied by a registered adult.

Get a better sense of Boston’s history with this walking tour of the North End and the Charlestown Navy Yard. We will visit the Edmund Hartt shipyard, where USS Constitution was originally built; the site of the 1919 Great Molasses Flood; the Prince Street location where the Boston Civil War Draft Riot began in 1863; and the location of the infamous 1950 Great Brink’s Robbery. Next, we will make our way across the North Washington Street bridge and into Charlestown. Once in the Navy Yard, we will discuss its founding as one of the original six naval ship yards in the US. Ages 10+

After a quick introduction to kayak strokes, we’ll launch our double kayaks and begin our sightseeing. We’ll paddle past the Great Dome of MIT, cross the Charles to the Esplanade, and take in the skyline, including the Hancock and Prudential buildings, Citgo sign, State House dome, and the financial district. After viewing a beautiful sunset and illuminated skyline, the guide will talk about the history and architecture of the city, then the group will enjoy a serene and quiet paddle back to the dock. Children ages 12+ are welcome to register if accompanied by a registered adult.

The beautiful farm facing Mass. Ave. opposite the high school, originally owned by Henry J. Locke, became a key element in Arlington’s 1920s building boom. William A. Muller (b. 1867), a local insurance executive, and his close business friends purchased the farm property in 1922 for development. The local newspaper emphasized that “there will be no duplicating of houses.” Mr. Muller envisioned a neighborhood that would attract men and women who wanted to build community. This unstoppable entrepreneur also served as town treasurer and as a dedicated trustee of the Robbins Library and the Symmes Arlington Hospital. Exploring sections of Lockeland Avenue and neighboring streets, our walk will feature stories about William Muller, the early residents, and their interesting homes.

Tasty wild plants grow abundantly in the area, many of which we walk right by without ever knowing they are there. Upgrade your knowledge of the wild greens readily available for foraging by joining a plant expert on a ramble through an urban wild. You’ll learn how to identify dozens of edible wild plants and how they can add significantly to your culinary and nutritional repertoire. We’ll also discuss cooking options, seasons of availability, and guidelines for safe and environmentally-responsible foraging. You’ll be amazed at the amount of greens, nuts, roots, and mushrooms that you can find now and over the next couple of months. Sampling in the field will be encouraged. Ages 10+ Children ages 10+ are welcome to register if accompanied by a registered adult.

Get a behind-the-scenes tour of one of Boston’s most prominent theatrical landmarks. Learn about the theater’s architectural highlights and unique history—from its hotel roots and glamorous days as a movie “cathedral,” to today’s role as an impressive venue for performances and events. Visit the dressing rooms and hallways walked by entertainers such as Bruce Springsteen, Ella Fitzgerald, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Elton John, Lady Gaga, and many more. Walk away with a newfound appreciation of this theater and why it was once referred to as “The Showplace of New England.” Ages 10+