Coolidge Corner

Coolidge Corner, the bustling heart of Brookline, is centrally positioned at the intersection of Beacon Street and Harvard Street. Just a short distance from Fenway Park and downtown Boston, it's a nexus of convenience and community charm. With the MBTA Green Line's C branch and 66 Bus running through it, residents have quick and easy access to Boston, the Longwood Medical area, and Cambridge.

Coolidge Corner is also just a mile from other Brookline hotspots including Washington Square, Brookline Village, and Saint Mary’s Street, and also less than a mile to Allston, where many students and young professionals live.

Unquestionably the most active neighborhood in Brookline, Coolidge Corner is the hub of economic activity in the area - the part of town where banks, phone stores, real estate agencies, and pharmacies are commingled with restaurants and boutique shops. There’s a lot to do in Coolidge Corner, making it one of the most sought after parts of town to own real estate in.

Building Types

The architectural landscape of Coolidge Corner is a harmonious blend of historic brownstones, modern apartment complexes, and classic single-family homes, reflecting the area's rich history and modern evolution.

Parks and Recreation

Nature lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and families with small children have several options when it comes to parks in Coolidge Corner.

• Amory Park: A verdant oasis that offers residents a serene escape from the urban hustle of Coolidge Corner. Spanning several acres, this park is a harmonious blend of open green spaces, shaded groves, and recreational facilities. The centerpiece, Hall's Pond, provides a tranquil setting for reflection and nature observation, attracting both local wildlife and those looking for a moment of calm. With tennis courts, a baseball field, and ample space for picnics or leisurely strolls, Amory Park serves as a gathering place for families, dog owners, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
• Coolidge Playground: Situated on Columbia and Kenwood Streets just off of Harvard Street, is a vibrant and welcoming recreational space cherished by residents of all ages. A hub of activity and laughter, the playground boasts modern play structures, swings, and a small open space that invites children to explore, climb, and imagine. Beyond its recreational amenities, Coolidge Playground is adorned with shade-giving trees and benches, providing a peaceful respite for those seeking a moment of relaxation. Even dogs are welcome off-leash until 9 AM every day.
• Ruffin-Ridley School: The Ruffin Ridley School features a turf field used for youth sports, basketball and tennis courts, and a play area.
• Lawton Playground: Nestled on the outskirts of Coolidge Corner close to Commonwealth Avenue, Lawton Playground is a recreational haven punctuated with modern play equipment, a basketball court, and open green areas, serving as an ideal backdrop for children's laughter and community gatherings
• The Rose Garden: One of the most beautiful parks in Brookline, when the Roses bloom, this park shines. A modest green space runs along St. Paul Street and Freeman Street enclosed by a tall fence. On the other side of the fence is play equipment, swings, and slides for kids. With a number of park benches too, this is a favorite meeting spot for Coolidge Corner residents.

Map of Coolidge Corner Area

Paths

• Lawton Path: Less a path and more a passageway; it’s one of the shortest paths in Brookline at only 69 feet long. Starting on Thorndike Street directly opposite the end of Gibbs Street, the path leads to an entrance into Lawton Park.
• Winchester Path: Ascending the northeastern flank of Corey Hill, Winchester Path weaves a picturesque route, brushing past intimate side yards and meandering through a lush, wooded sanctuary. Bridging Mason Terrace and Winchester Street, for local inhabitants, it's a favored route, streamlining commutes to Coolidge Corner in one direction and Corey Hill in the other.

Restaurants and Eateries

For the food aficionado, Coolidge Corner offers an eclectic culinary journey. From the hearty servings at Zaftigs Delicatessen and the fresh sushi at FuGaKyu, to the highly-stacked corned beef sandwiches of Michael's Deli, there's a taste for every palate.

• Bakey: New to Coolidge Corner, Bakey specializes in dough creations that reflect both European and Israeli baking traditions.
• Clear Flour Bread:: A true Coolidge Corner gem located on the outskirts of Brookline and off-the-beaten-path, Clear Flour bakes some of the best breads in the neighborhood. Try the Garlic butter stick!
• FuGaKyu: This Japanese staple offers some of the best sushi in Brookline in an atmosphere that is sure to delight.
• JP Licks: This ice cream shop attracts people of all ages with its many popular flavors.
• Kupel's Bakery: Serving up some of the best bagels in Brookline, this Coolidge Corner staple has been around since 1978.
• Los Amigos Taqueria: A popular counter-serve spot with gourmet takes on Mexican classics, including tacos & burritos.
• Michael's Deli: A New York style deli that takes its Corned Beef, Lox and Matzo Ball Soup seriously.
• Otto: A good place to grab a slice of pizza or two along with a beer and a salad.
• Paris Creperie:
• Prairie Fire: This happening spot has been delighting its customers with savory crepes for years.
• The Daily Catch: Known for its delicious woodfired pizza, this restaurant is much more than just a pizza place.
• Rami's: A fixture of the community, this restaurant serves up a great Falafel sandwich and other tasty Middle Eastern fare!
• Zaftigs: This traditional Jewish deli is anything but traditional and serves up some of the best breakfast food in all of Brookline. There’s a reason there’s usually a wait!

Coffee Shops

Coffee shops in Coolidge Corner are more than just places to grab a quick caffeine fix; they are integral to the fabric of the neighborhood.

• Tatte: A recent newcomer to Coolidge Corner, this local chain offers a slew of food and pastries in addition to drinks that are sure to delight.
• Starbucks: Located steps from the Coolidge Corner T stop, this Starbucks shop is on the smaller side and almost always busy.
• Temptations Cafe: Known as more of a place to grab a quick bite to eat, Temptations lures in the lunch and breakfast crowd.

Schools

Coolidge Corner benefits from top-tier educational institutions such as the recently built Florida Ruffin Ridley School and the academically renowned Brookline High School.

• Florida Ruffin Ridley School: FRR, as it is commonly referred to by the students, opened in 2018, and is the largest elementary school in Brookline serving Coolidge Corner residents.
• Lawrence School: A much smaller elementary school than FRR that serves students from both Coolidge Corner and Brookline Village.
• Brookline High School: The town’s lone high school is situated about 1 mile from the center of Coolidge Corner.

Daycares

• Bright Horizons: Equidistant from Coolidge Corner and Brookline Village, Bright Horizons is conveniently located on Harvard Street and has a secure play area for the little ones.
• Everbrook Academy: So popular with families that it has two locations in Coolidge Corner less than half a mile apart on Harvard Street.
• School is Cool Childcare: Another very popular choice among families, School is Cool Childcare operates two locations, one on Marion Street and another on nearby Beacon Street.

Supermarkets

Washington Square offers residents a couple of options to suit their diverse needs.

• Stop & Shop: The easy-in-easy-out parking lot makes this a convenient place to shop for groceries along Harvard Street.
• The Bazaar: Located at the foot of Summit Avenue along Beacon Street, The Bazaar is about a half mile from Coolidge Corner and offers some unique foods that you won’t find elsewhere.
• Trader Joe's: A bustling grocery store located in the middle of Coolidge Corner just a few feet from the intersection of Beacon Street and Harvard Street.
• The Butcherie: This Kosher Market is renowned for its meats and baked goods.

Shopping & Other Staples

Shoppers and culture seekers are in for a treat with establishments like the Brookline Booksmith, a treasure trove for book lovers, and the art deco Coolidge Corner Theatre, which showcases a mix of contemporary and classic films. The district also takes pride in the John F. Kennedy National Historic Site, the birthplace of the 35th president of the United States, offering history buffs a deep dive into the early life of JFK. And in the spring, summer and fall, the Farmer’s Market sets up shop along Center Street offering residents the freshest produce the area has to offer.

• Brookline Booksmith: When someone says Coolidge Corner you think Brookline Booksmith. Enough said!
• Brookline Grooming & Pet Supplies: Reliable shop to find your pet’s favorite foods, treats, toys and more. Also offers grooming and doggie daycare.
• Coolindge Corner Public Library: One of the town’s three public libraries is a popular spot along Pleasant Street.
• Coolidge Corner Theatre: The only movie theatre in Brookline is an iconic landmark in the neighborhood. It has been entertaining audiences with classic films and live performances for over 90 years.
• Coolidge Yoga: Clean and welcoming yoga studio offering services for the nourishment of mind, body, heart and spirit.
• Eureka! Puzzles & Games: From jigsaws to diabolical mindbenders, from the simplest party games to complex strategy games, this popular toy and game store is a Coolidge Corner fixture.
• Wild Goose Chase: This boutique crafts store features jewelry, art and more, and is a popular place to buy gifts.
• True Value: The neighborhood hardware store on Harvard Street that residents rely on for their home needs.

Coolidge Corner truly has something for everyone. It is a microcosm of the best that urban living has to offer. Whether you're a resident or just passing through, Coolidge Corner provides a welcoming atmosphere that combines the charm of the past with the conveniences and excitement of the present.

Other Things to Know

On Halloween, Beals Street, where John F. Kennedy was born, turns into a happening haven for Trick or Treaters!