Whether you're looking for an evening outdoors, a family activity, or a relaxing concert on the lawn, three events over the next two weeks offer plenty of reasons to head to the Blue Hills and Eustis Estate.

The highlight is Blue Hills After Dark: Family Nature Hike on Friday, July 17, when Mass Audubon will lead families on a guided evening walk through the Blue Hills Reservation.

The 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. program begins at the Blue Hills Trailside Museum, 1904 Canton Ave., and is geared toward children ages 4 to 17 and their families. Guides will lead participants on an easy-paced hike of up to two miles, with opportunities to experience the reservation as the sun sets and wildlife becomes more active.

Registration is required. Families should wear closed-toe shoes and bring water.

If you'd rather stay closer to home base, stop by the Trailside Museum the night before.

The museum is hosting its free DCR Summer Nights program on Thursday, July 16, from 4 to 7 p.m. Visitors can explore hands-on nature activities, create art projects, and meet resident animals—including foxes, hawks, owls, eagles, and the museum's river otters.

The weekly summer series runs through Aug. 20 and offers a chance to experience the museum after normal hours.

The fun continues on Sunday, July 26, when Todd Brunel's Swing Conspiracy brings the sounds of the 1920s and '30s to the lawn of the Eustis Estate Museum, 1424 Canton Ave.

The 5 p.m. concert is part of the estate's summer music series. Guests are encouraged to pack a picnic, bring a blanket or lawn chair, and enjoy an evening of live swing music outside one of Milton's most historic homes.

Mark your calendar

  • Thursday, July 16: DCR Summer Nights, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, 4–7 p.m. (Free)
  • Friday, July 17: Blue Hills After Dark Family Nature Hike, 7:15–8:30 p.m. (Registration required)
  • Sunday, July 26: Todd Brunel's Swing Conspiracy, Eustis Estate, 5 p.m. (Bring a picnic and blanket)

For anyone looking to make the most of a summer evening, Canton Avenue has something happening nearly every week.