Welcome to Brookline and Jamaica Plain

Top Reasons to Go

• Check out the Larz Anderson Auto Museum: Classic car aficionados will want to see the oldest automobile collection in the United States.
• Visit the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site: America's preeminent landscape architect's home and office make for a fascinating tour.
• Sample beer at Samuel Adams Brewery: Tour the home of Boston's own award-winning beers. Free samples at the end are the highlight of the tour.
• Explore the Arnold Arboretum: The 281-acre Arboretum, a living lab open to the public, offers a breath of fresh air, with more than 4,000 plants and trees, a visitor center and walking paths.
• Walk around or boat on Jamaica Pond: Part of Boston's Emerald Necklace, Jamaica Pond is an outdoor oasis for locals and visitors alike.

Getting Here

Although driving to these suburbs is relatively painless, they're not called the "streetcar suburbs" for nothing. To reach the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain, take the Orange Line to the end at Forest Hills. To access the restaurants and shops in Jamaica Plain, get off a few stops earlier at the Green Street stop. Brookline is accessible via the C and D lines of the Green Line.

Planning Your Time

Timing all depends on which areas you decide to explore. Each neighborhood merits a half day, especially factoring in travel time from Boston proper and a leisurely lunch or dinner.

Generally, most of these neighborhoods are safe, particularly in the areas where these attractions reside. But use common sense: stick to well-lighted areas and avoid walking alone late at night.

Quick Bites

Brassica Kitchen + Cafe. Across from the Forest Hills T stop, this spot serves coffee, pastries, and sandwiches during the day; by night, it's a hip place to dine and drink. 3710 Washington St., Jamaica Plain www.brassicakitchen.com Forest Hills.

J. P. Licks. Treat yourself to a few scoops of what is arguably some of the Boston area's best ice cream. 659 Centre St., Jamaica Plain www.jplicks.com Green Street.

Otto Pizza. This outpost of the popular Portland, Maine pizzeria offers creative pies, along with slices, perfect for a quick snack. 289 Harvard St., Brookline www.ottoportland.com Coolidge Corner.

Zaftigs Delicatessen. This modern Jewish deli serves breakfast all day and classics like chicken matzo ball soup. 335 Harvard St., Brookline www.zaftigs.com Coolidge Corner.