Foxborough, a charming town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, is renowned for being the home of the New England Patriots. While its connection to this successful NFL team has garnered it widespread recognition, Foxborough offers much more, blending historic charm with modern attractions. From Gillette Stadium to the tranquil Foxborough Common, this town caters to sports fans, history buffs, nature lovers, and more.
Gillette Stadium
In 2002, Gillette Stadium opened as the new home for the New England Patriots, replacing the outdated Foxboro Stadium. With a seating capacity of 65,878, it also hosts the New England Revolution of Major League Soccer. A part of an expansive complex, Gillette Stadium houses the Patriots Hall of Fame and the Patriot Place mixed-use development.
The stadium has seen numerous upgrades, including a $225 million renovation that added the largest video board of its kind in the U.S. and a 218-foot observation tower. Beyond football games, visitors can purchase tickets via Ticketmaster to enjoy various events throughout the year, making Gillette Stadium a year-round destination.
The Patriots Hall of Fame
Adjacent to Gillette Stadium, the Patriots Hall of Fame is an interactive museum celebrating the rich history of the New England Patriots. The museum features hands-on exhibits, allowing fans to relive iconic moments like the historic comeback in Super Bowl LI and Malcolm Butler’s game-winning interception in Super Bowl XLIX.
Patriots’ memorabilia, such as Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski’s gear, are on display alongside the team’s six Vince Lombardi Super Bowl trophies. The museum is a must-visit for Patriots fans and those interested in the evolution of one of the NFL’s most successful franchises.
Patriot Place
Opened in 2007, Patriot Place is a vibrant mixed-use development west of Gillette Stadium. Owned by the Kraft Group, this sprawling complex spans 1.3 million square feet and includes a diverse range of dining options, shopping outlets, a four-star hotel, a concert hall, a cinema, and a comedy club.
Visitors can enjoy meals at popular chains like Five Guys, Olive Garden, or Dunkin’, alongside unique local eateries offering Japanese, Italian, and New England seafood cuisines. Additionally, Patriot Place features major retailers like Bass Pro Shops and Trader Joe’s, making it a one-stop destination for shopping, entertainment, and dining.
Foxborough Common
Foxborough Common, located at a central rotary, has served as the town’s heart for over 300 years. Surrounded by historic buildings such as the Bethany Congregational Church and Memorial Hall, the common is a gathering place for community events. The Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center hosts regular performances, while summer months bring free outdoor concerts and the Foxboro Farmers’ Market to the common.
The Jaycees, a local community group, also organizes spring and fall craft fairs, adding to the lively atmosphere of this historic town center. The common serves as a reminder of Foxborough’s rich heritage and its close-knit community spirit.
Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center
The Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center, formerly known as the Orpheum Theatre, stands as a testament to Foxborough’s cultural scene. Opened in 1926 to show silent films, the theater closed in 1989 but reopened as a venue for live performances. Renamed in 2018 to honor a cherished local figure, the center offers a wide array of entertainment, including concerts, musicals, live comedy, and movie screenings.
F. Gilbert Hills State Forest
Covering more than 1,000 acres, the F. Gilbert Hills State Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It features over 20 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. The forest is part of the larger Warner Trail system, a 30-mile path stretching from Diamond Hill, Rhode Island, to Sharon, Massachusetts.
With its varied terrain, including glacial drumlins, the state forest offers some of the best mountain biking in eastern Massachusetts. The forest’s natural beauty makes it a perfect escape for those seeking adventure or tranquility.
Neponset Reservoir
Just a short distance from Foxborough Common lies the Neponset Reservoir, a man-made lake created in the 19th century. Initially built to power mills, the reservoir has since become a recreational spot. The Lane Homestead Conservation Area offers access to the reservoir’s western shore, with trails like the Story Book Trail and the wheelchair-accessible All Person’s Trail leading to scenic viewpoints.
Visitors can also enjoy boating, with facilities available at Edwards Road and Kersey Point. The reservoir’s natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for birdwatching, fishing, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
Showcase Cinema de Lux Patriot Place
A key feature of Patriot Place is the Showcase Cinema de Lux, a 14-screen multiplex that offers a premium movie-going experience. Opened in the late 2000s, it includes the Lux Level service with in-theater dining, reserved seating, and in-seat ordering. The adjoining Studio 3 restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine, making it a popular destination for both movies and meals.
Memorial Hall
Erected to honor Foxborough residents who served in the Civil War, Memorial Hall stands as a historical landmark in the town. It was built on the site of an old burying ground and features a statue of a Union Army soldier. Inside, visitors can find historical exhibits and a plaque commemorating those who lost their lives during the war. Although it once served as the town library, Memorial Hall now operates as a museum, open to the public on select days.
The Nature Trail and Cranberry Bog
Patriot Place is home to Foxborough’s last active cranberry bog, offering a unique natural attraction. The Nature Trail guides visitors through this seven-acre bog, planted in 1929. Surrounded by hemlock, red maple, and white pine, the bog provides a picturesque setting, especially in the fall when the cranberries ripen to a vivid red.
Interpretive signs along the trail provide insights into the history and process of cranberry farming, making this a fascinating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Foxborough combines the excitement of modern attractions with the charm of historic New England. Whether you’re a sports fan, nature lover, or history enthusiast, this town offers something for everyone. From the bustling Patriot Place to the serene F. Gilbert Hills State Forest, Foxborough invites you to explore its rich heritage and vibrant present.
FAQs:
What is Foxborough known for?
Foxborough is best known as the home of the New England Patriots and the Gillette Stadium, but it also offers a mix of historic sites, shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.
When was Gillette Stadium built?
Gillette Stadium was completed in 2002 and replaced the old Foxboro Stadium as the home of the New England Patriots.
What can you do at Patriot Place?
Patriot Place features shopping, dining, entertainment, and attractions like the Patriots Hall of Fame, a movie theater, and the Nature Trail and Cranberry Bog.