Waltham has many attractions to choose from. Highlights include historic estates, museums, two renowned institutions of higher learning, Bentley College and Brandeis University as well the scenic Charles River. It's all here for you to experience first-hand, up close and personal. Start your visit at the Charles River Museum of Industry, (CRMI) located in the massive power house of the original 1813 textile mill.

Just outside the CRMI's door is the Riverwalk, a scenic, 1.5-mile hiking/biking trail through Waltham along the banks of the Charles River. Moody Street bridge provides an excellent view of the Charles. Canoes and kayaks frequently dot the water in fair weather.

Visit Waltham's historic houses. The oldest is the Lyman Estate, a 30-acre English-style estate built in 1793. Gore Place is the 45-acre estate of Christopher Gore, Massachusetts governor in the early 1800s, who hosted a variety of notables under his roof. Kids love the working farm with sheep and poultry. Last but not least is Stonehurst, the idiosyncratically beautiful home of Robert Treat Paine, built in 1886 by renowned designers, architect Henry Hobson Richardson and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.

Museum-lovers will want to make an appointment to visit the Waltham Museum for full immersion in the city's history. On the campus of Brandeis University is the Rose Art Museum, which houses a rich variety of modern art. Waltham's performing arts scene is second to none.

The Spingold Theatre Center at Brandeis, the Bentley College Performing Arts Series, the Hovey Players, and the Reagle Players all offer top-drawer entertainment. If your tastes run more toward the silver screen, check out the Embassy Cinema for the latest popular or art release.