5 Things To Do in Jamaica Plain Boston, MA!

Boston is one of the most beautiful and dynamic cities in America. I love Boston for so many reasons, one being it’s the city I grew up in and two it played a huge part in who I am today. But before I get all sappy and write a 10-page love letter to the entire city of Boston, MA. Today I’m going to focus on one particular neighborhood and that’s Jamaica Plain, Boston.

Jamaica Plain Small Town in a Big City

Jamaica Plain is one of Boston’s larger neighborhoods and it’s filled with art, food, and culture. As well as some amazing outdoor parks. This by no means is a full list of the amazing things you can do in the wonderful neighborhood but it’s definitely a starting point.

What To Eat in Jamaica Plain, Boston

1. Juicy Greens

Juicy Greens is a plant-based juice bar and cafe. They have some delicious and nutritious food and smoothies. I tried their Power JP which contains cacao, peanut butter, and banana (3 of my favorite smoothie ingredients), and Tropical Sun which had Pineapple, mango, banana, coconut milk and it was very refreshing. Check out Juicy Greens here.

2. J.P. Licks

J.P. Licks is the go-to place for some ice cream! They have been making homemade ice cream since 1941 and are a real staple in the community. They have several locations now but the original one still stands and it is this one located on Center St in Jamaica Plain. Definitely check out their website here because they have a variety of flavors including dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan options as well.

3. Purple Cactus

Purple Cactus is located directly across from J.P. Licks and it offers California-inspired wraps and burritos. We tried the Turkey Avocado Club and the Chicken Burrito and they were both really good. There’s a colorful mural right outside that I would suggest taking photos with before going in and ordering food. Check out their website here

Explore Nature in Jamaica Plain, MA

4. Jamaica Pond

Since everything is really close to each other if you want to have a picnic grab your food from Purple Catcus and head to Jamaica Pond for a beautiful outdoor brunch. That’s what we did and it was super peaceful. Jamaica Pond is a beautiful outdoor pond and it’s part of the Emerald Necklace of Boston parks. It has a 1.5-mile loop for walking or jogging, you can fish with a permit and the boathouse provides facilities for sailing and rowing. So make sure you check out their calendar of events on their page.

5. The Arnold Arboretum

The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is a living museum of trees. It’s open every day from sunrise to sunset and it’s also part of the Emerald Necklace park system designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in the 1800s. You can also come here for a picnic, a stroll or a hike. They have free tours available if you want to learn more about the park and the different types of trees that live there. Check out their website here.