The Framingham center is approximately the area of Framingham City Hall and the area of Framingham Community Theater.
The weather in Framingham can be harsh, depending on what part of the year you choose to visit. The town sees nearly 50 inches of rain a year, well above the national average of 39. Snowfall is also excessive, coming in at 44 inches per annum (compared to a national average of 24 inches annually). However, you'll enjoy about 200 sunny days in Framingham per year, as well as fresh air, clean water, and happy people.
Summertime, in general, is the best time to visit Framingham. Unlike other parts of the United States further south, precipitation levels actually drop off slightly during the summer months. Spring rains in Framingham average 4 inches or so per month, which dips down to a little over 3.5 inches from June through September. When fall arrives, monthly rainfall hops back to 4 inches again. Summer temperatures are pleasant, hovering around the low 80s during the day and cooling off to the 60s at night.
The spectacular shifting colors of fall make an excellent backdrop for your visit to Framingham. As humidity drops (right along with the mercury), it's a perfect time to grab a mug of cider and explore Framingham's many parks and outdoor spaces. Expect cool, comfortable temperatures in the 50s and 60s during the day, and lows just above freezing.
Winters in Framingham are bright and snowy. Right around the end of November is when you can expect the first flurries, and you'll see consistent snow all the way until the springtime thaw in April. Winter highs are right around 40 degrees and lows can fall to the teens. Holidays in Framingham are white, glittery, and cheerful.
Framingham has a wide range of climates, depending on when you visit. No matter what sort of environment you're looking for, Framingham is sure to come through for you.
Smart travelers know that the price of an AAA membership is worth it for the discounts alone. Several places in Framingham offer AAA discounts, including Econo Lodge, Hampton Inn, and the Sheraton.
Senior discounts can save you over 10 percent on your room rate, so look to the Magnuson Hotel for a great deal. Red Roof PLUS+ has an awesome base rate and offers senior discounts as well. The relatively higher rates at Courtyard Marriott can be sliced by over 15 percent with your senior discount. Fairfield Inn offers even greater potential savings.
As their reputation would lead you to expect, Motel 6 offers some of the lowest rates in town. While you won't get a buffet breakfast, you can still score fresh hot coffee in the lobby and free parking as well. The Dunkin' Donuts right next store can handle your breakfast needs, so use some of the money you saved on your room. The staff members are welcoming and knowledgeable here.
Monticello Inn is another option for those looking to save. If you're looking for a low rate that still has a free breakfast spread, Monticello could be the place for you. They also offer Wi-Fi, unlike Motel 6. The rooms and facilities aren't nearly as clean or as updated as those found at Motel 6, however.
Shoppers' World had a single anchor store — Jordan Marsh. This Boston-based department store was a major chain that lasted all the way to 1996 when the last of their stores were converted into Macy's outlets. The Framingham Jordan Marsh location boasted a huge domed ceiling that was the third largest unsupported dome of its kind in the world. It was so massive, aircraft used it as a visual reporting point when landing in Boston.
This mall was more than merely a place to spend your cash. It was a true hub of the community. Live theater productions, such as stagings of The Glass Menagerie, were held at Shoppers' World. Local kids used it as a bicycle track and skate park. There was a garden area where visitors could picnic under sun umbrellas and enjoy the well-kept flower beds. A merry-go-round and Ferris wheel provided family entertainment. The mall and its parking areas had been impromptu zoos, autocross tracks, and motorcycle schools, among other things.
The innovation and community behind Shoppers' World perfectly symbolized the pioneering spirit of Framingham and its people. While the mall has been completely revamped and remodeled, it still operates today and is a major center for retail commerce in Massachusetts. Folks often come from Boston just to shop there.
Framingham's long history, proud people, and strong sense of community make it an excellent place to live or visit. Stay at one of their excellent hotels and get a feel for the place. Perhaps you'll soon be calling it home!
Below are reviews of the city of Framingham, MA from an actual visitor's perspective.
I recommend the British Beer Company Pub and Restaurant.
The city was clean with many great stores and restaurants.
The shopping is good